A Very Successful Turnout For Leah's 2nd Annual Polar Plunge

CHESTER, CT - The hot chocolate was steaming, the cider donuts were sweet and Mother Nature was kind Sunday afternoon, as six teams of Polar Plungers unrobed and plunged into the ice-cold water of Cedar Lake, as part of Leah's Polar Plunge second annual fundraiser event.

It was an atmosphere of joy as people of all ages joined together. Outside the temperature was about 50 degrees and the water was just a bit nippier.

"It was a lot colder than I expected," said Ava Alston, who took the plunge with team Meow Meow. This was her first-ever Polar Plunge and she said she did it because it was for a good cause. "It was cold but worth it."

Leah Kisselbrack, who organized the event, did it last year, by herself on a live Facebook feed. This year, her grassroots event had the parking lot packed with cars. There were over 20 plungers, along with a bevy of onlookers who enthusiastically cheered them on as they threw themselves into the chilly water.

Shivers and smiles abounded, as everyone was there for a good cause; to raise money for those struggling with food insecurities in the local community and neighboring areas.

"How could I not be a part of this? questioned First Selectwoman Lauren Gister. "It's for such a good cause and it is happening right here in Chester at Cedar Lake." This was Gister's first polar plunge ever.

"I am absolutely blown away with how many people showed up here today," said Kesselbrack about the success of her event. "We are committed to making this an annual event and a great way to kick off the holiday season with some fun and giving."

"I am so glad so many people showed up today," said Gister, who made the plunge alongside Kisslebrack (who was clad in an appropriate Superwoman costume). "Leah is out to feed the world and this [fundraiser] is critical right now for the condition that some of our neighbors are in. It's a great event."

The team from Little House Brewing Company agreed. "This is such a good cause, for good people. Whenever you can help people out in any weird way you can, it's a good thing," said Nick LeFort.

In total, along with the 25 percent match from the Rotary and Liberty Bank, as well as the funds raised from the door prizes, Kesselbrack estimated that approximately $17,500 was raised from the Plunge. This money will be disseminated to several food banks in the area including Chester and Deep River.

Great job everyone!

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