Dip into the icy lake next month for a good cause during the 4th Annual Paupack Plunge where plungers will be freezin’ for a reason. Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Route 507 is hosting the event on February 14th, which is sure to be a chillingly fun adventure on the lake this winter.
With the lake newly frozen and the picture of glacial beauty, a Paupack Plunge couldn’t have come at a better time. The idea is to bring many brave people to the lake’s frigid waters to “plunge” for a good cause right from Lighthouse Harbor Marina’s shoreline. This unique charity event will raise money and awareness for two important local dive and rescue teams; the Tafton Water Rescue Team and the Ledgedale Dive Team. Last year, Paupack Plunge organizers were thrilled with the turnout. About 100 people plunged, raising over $6,000 for these two important charities. They hope to surpass that goal this year.
The excitement begins at 11 a.m. through 3 p.m. With a hole cut in the ice, brave plungers will walk right into the frigid water from the sandy shore. They will only go in up to their shoulders with members of the Tafton Water Rescue Team assisting people in the water. About ten to twelve people can plunge every half hour.
To get started, potential plungers must first register and provide a minimum donation of $25. Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot. Plungers can donate the money themselves and find local businesses or individuals to sponsor them. In addition, area businesses are encouraged to donate door prizes or become a corporate sponsor for the event. Prizes will also be awarded to the plungers who raise the most money.
Each plunger will be presented with an official Paupack Plunge t-shirt and towel complete with the event’s eye-catching logo of a walrus wearing a scarf amid ice cubes with the words “Paupack Plunge” covered in ice. T-shirts and towels will be available to purchase that day to anyone else.
Adding to the afternoon’s excitement, people can take a break from the cold and warm up inside the marina where local musicians will provide live entertainment and refreshments like hot dogs and hot cocoa will be available. In addition, there will be special Plunge Day sales in the marina showroom and the Ship’s Store and people can meet Wally Walrus.
Anyone is welcome to come and watch the event. Last year, spectators and participants really got into the light hearted nature of the charity by dressing up in costume, which is encouraged again this year. Carpooling is highly suggested due to limited parking. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign a waiver and be present during the plunge.
Lighthouse Harbor Marina is located at 969 Route 507 in Greentown, Pa, four miles north of Interstate 84 off Exit 20. Participants are invited to stop in the showroom to drop off their registration or donation. To register and find out what you will need to prepare for the plunge, visit www.paupackplunge.com or call (570) 857-0220. People can also register at the door the day of the event. Local businesses and individuals interested in being a sponsor can call this number or email paupackplunge@lighthouseharbor.com. Lighthouse Harbor Marina is accepting cash, credit card or a check made out to The Paupack Plunge.
Prepared by: Allison Mowatt
