Polar Bear Plunge 2017 for Special Olympics
Freezin’ for a reason
Several members of Clark Township Local 125 waited eager-
ly at the yellow tape line just before plunge time, when they
rushed the ocean for the first time as a team.
Officer Ted McKeown shared his technique to maneuver the
crowd “like a guppy” straight into the water. The Clark members
participating in the event already anticipate the return of the
team next year, with an even bigger crew and the same enthusi-
asm to be freezin’ for a reason.
“We are doing our jobs and doing our service for the people,”
confirmed McKeown. “This is our example of helping the com-
munity in our best fashion, by being here and showing our sup-
port and dedication to Special Olympic athletes.” d
48
NEW JERSEY COPS
■ MARCH 2017
A unique perspective
Walking east on Blaine Avenue toward the beach where thou-
sands would soon be plunging, a group of would-be revelers was
hanging out on the balcony of your basic house by the ocean. But
these were not your typical Jersey Shore partiers. Far from it.
Members of Mercer County Sheriffs Officers Local 187 rented
this house for the weekend to hub their plunge operations. Leave
it to law enforcement officers to rise above for such an important
event.
“A third of us rented this house, and we also rented two others,”
explained Local 187 member Phil Altobelli, who coordinated the
Mercer County Sheriffs team. “This house is closest to the ocean,
so we are here for our pre-game.”
Local 187 recently started a civic association to promote more
unity among members and give more support to the community.
The plunge was its first event, and 14 members came to Seaside
Heights for the weekend.
Altobelli noted how the civic association is even more important
given the current public opinion of law enforcement. And he said
all team members were pleasantly surprised to see such a strong
show of support for officers on this day.
The community atmosphere is unbelievable,” he added. “It’s
amazing how much money can be raised for such a great organi-
zation.” d