Penguin Plunge to take over downtown

Date: 1/14/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



WESTFIELD On Feb. 7, those venturing downtown will bear witness to a spectacle never seen before on Elm Street.

Hundreds are expected to gather to brave the elements in ornate costumes and scuba gear as the city's green will set the stage for the fifth annual Amelia Park Children's Museum (APCM) Penguin Plunge. There may not be a lake on the green now, but by next month organizers will have plenty of icy water ready for plunging.

"As a non-profit in Western Massachusetts, our goal has been to come up with signature events that we can really own and that keep people interested," Molly Watson, vice president of the APCM Board of Directors, said in an interview with Reminder Publications.

She explained that the Plunge's usual location on Southwick's Congamond Lake was unavailable this year, forcing organizers to come up with an innovative new site. Watson added that the goal is also to help increase foot traffic downtown at a time when city officials are working to revitalize the economically depressed area.

Lisa McMahon, executive director of the Westfield Business Improvement District (BID), said she believes the event is a perfect fit for BID members and the APCM, as increased foot traffic could create a spike in business.

When asked if she would participate in the Plunge, McMahon replied with a laugh that she might not be able to brave the icy waters but that she'll certainly sponsor a few plungers.

Watson noted that last year's Plunge raised approximately $20,000 for the museum and over 120 people plunged into Congamond Lake.

APCM volunteer Linda Friedrich explained that funds raised from the event will go toward the facility's operating costs.

She noted the importance of having such an affordable recreation facility open for children and families given these economic times.

"The museum has been set up to be a safe, close, fun place for kids and families to go [to learn and play]," Friedrich said.

The museum provides children with interactive exhibits such as a bank, grocery store and medical center so that they may role play and learn life skills. Even though the museum has opened its new location on South Broad Street, several of the exhibits are still without sponsorship and have yet to be built.

Watson said she anticipates that the museum will raise between $20,000 and $30,000 at this year's Plunge.

Prizes will also be awarded on the day of the Plunge for Best Costume and Most Funds Raised.

Preregistration for all those who wish to avoid long lines on the day of the Plunge can register in advance at the museum on Feb. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. The cost is $50 per plunger.

Registration on the day of the event will begin at 11 a.m. Plungers will begin their encounters with the icy waters at 1 p.m.

For further information, call the APCM at 572-4014 or visit www.ameliaparkmuseum.org.