Carpino to Judge Penguin Plungers

State Rep. Christie Carpino will reprise her longtime role as an advocate of Special Olympians when she judges the costume contest at the Penguin Plunge, an event that raises thousands of dollars each year for athletes in the region, including those in Cromwell, Middletown and Portland.

Nearly 300 people have already signed up to hop into the frigid waters of Crystal Lake on Feb. 25, and over the years the costumes have become a part of what attracts large crowds of folks eager to see brave souls willing to help a worthwhile cause.  

“As a volunteer with the Special Olympics for over a decade, I have seen what a great event the Penguin Plunge is to raise awareness for the organization,” Carpino said in a press release.

Last year, 235 penguins took the plunge and raised $50,000 for Special Olympics athletes and programs. The Middleton Penguin Plunge is one of 10 Plunges for Special Olympics Connecticut that are scheduled to happen across the state this year, giving many the chance to jump into the chilly water in bathing suits, team jerseys or creative costumes for a good cause.

“The funds raised at the plunge give Special Olympics Connecticut the means to provide sports training and competitions for thousands of athletes, all year long.  Many of our plungers return year after year to raise money for Special Olympics,” said Carpino (R, Cromwell), who will also be working as a volunteer at the event.

Special Olympics Connecticut provides year-round sports training and competitions for more than 12,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities and Unified Partners (their teammates without disabilities). For more information on how to donate please visit www.soct.org.

Plungers and corporate sponsors should contact Marc Mercadente. You can register online at http://www.soct.org/plunges/, or call 860-887-1555 to receive a registration packet.