Locals take the plunge in downtown Westfield

Date: 2/11/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



WESTFIELD The fifth annual Penguin Plunge to benefit the Amelia Park Children's Museum was far from business as usual.

Unlike previous years, plungers did not brave the icy Congamond Lake in Southwick, but rather belly-flopped into a buckling above-ground pool erected on the Green. The first plunge, by Shaggy from KIX 97.6, was delayed due to the diminishing structural integrity of the pool but eventual reinforcements allowed over 100 plungers to wander into the 40 degree water.

"I'm chilled and thrilled to be here," State Rep. Donald Humason Jr. told Reminder Publications as he waited to plunge. He noted that he was only able to raise $175 for the non-profit but added that the first $300 from his legislative pay raise will be turned over to the museum.

Christina Gezotis, fundraising coordinator for the Amelia Park Children's Museum, explained that organizers chose to move the event downtown in order to create a "synergy" between the community and downtown businesses.

"We're hoping to bring more people downtown to let people know that downtown is a happening place," she said.

Lisa McMahon, executive director of the Westfield Business Improvement District, explained that many of the downtown businesses worked in collaboration with the museum by offering "Plunge Specials" and other amenities throughout the day.

Four-year-old Bella Stowell said she loves the museum and looks forward to the plunge every year.

"When I get older I'm gonna jump into the water with my mommy," she said with a grin.

The youngest plunger, nine-year-old Kristen Tabb, explained that she chose to participate in plunge in order to help a cause that supports other children.

Veteran plunger Amanda Ouellette said she braves the icy waters in costume each year as a way to "give back" to her community. With chattering teeth, Ouellette explained that her niece's love for Tinker Bell inspired her to dress as a fairy this year. She stood shivering for the cause as a mermaid last year.

Gezotis noted that more than $6,000 was raised for the museum at this year's Penguin Plunge, which will be used for operational expenses at its location on South Broad Street.

For more information about the Amelia Park Children's Museum, visit www.ameliaparkmuseum.org.