BOONE—While the water temperature was 39 degrees, Mother Nature provided more favorable conditions for the 18th Annual Polar Plunge at Appalachian State University. This year sunny skies prevailed with temperatures in the mid-40s for the event that raised funds to support Watauga County Special Olympics.

A total of 156 brave students and others dove into the campus duck pond raising $8,773 for the local charity. Each jumper received a Polar Plunge towel.

“Many thanks to all of the agencies and individuals responsible for helping to make this a success,” said Karon Poteat, recreation specialist and Special Olympics coordinator with Watauga County Parks and Recreation. This amount will go a long way in helping our Special Olympics athletes with their training and competition efforts for the upcoming year.

Winners of the most extreme costume were Danielle “Tigger” Davis and Ian “Mr. Princess” Black. Appalachian’s ROTC program was the top fundraising group, contributing $1,520. Top fundraising individuals were Roachel Laney, Jake Harkey and Paul Krause. Corporate sponsor Smart Products contributed $5,000. Gift certificates were provided by Stick Boy Bread Company, Red Onion Café and Melanie’s Food Fantasy.

A March 22 BBQ fundraiser led by Laney’s recreation management class will provide additional funds for Special Olympics. The fundraiser will be held from 5-7 p.m. Room 13 A in the Holmes Convocation Center. Cost is a $5 minimum donation.

The Special Olympics Spring Games will be held at Watauga High School Thursday, April 28, from 9 a.m. till 3 p.m.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.

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