Taking the Plunge

If there is a more photogenic fundraising event in the Cape Girardeau area, we don't know what it is.

Every year for the past six, a giddy gaggle of goofballs have gathered in February to jump in the lake. What possesses individuals and groups of people to go jump in frigid water every year is not something that can be easily explained.

But what a great cause.

This year, a record crowd participated -- 329 to be specific. The event is part of a statewide fundraising effort for the Special Olympics. Last Saturday's plunge and post-plunge party raised $55,600 for the Special Olympics.

Almost as impressive was the creativity shown in the outfits and props worn and carried by the participants. Some dressed up as rubber duckies. Others took a Titanic theme into the frigid waters. If you're having a bad day, please check out the Polar Plunge photo gallery at semissourian.com. Guaranteed smiles.

And isn't that what this is all about? It's good times at the plunge. And good times later for the Special Olympics athletes, who love competition.

What a cool event. Warm regards to everyone involved for making it happen. Even if we do think you're all just a little bit crazy.