MANCHESTER – For some, like Superintendent Diane Pedroza, it was the first time, for others like Regional Day School Principal Lisa Michallis – who had many a plunge under their belt – it was another fun splash.
Either way, nearly 40 plungers recently made some waves for a good cause. They were penguins for a purpose at Harry Wright Lake and that purpose was to raise money for the Regional Day School. All proceeds from this event went directly to the school’s upcoming prom and graduation.
Mayor Robert Arace noted that the water temperature wasn’t that bad this year. Last year he entered 36-degree water. This year it was up to 53 degrees.
It was a sunny spring day. Hot chocolate and coffee awaited people when they came back from the water, anyway.
Michallis and Pedroza both noted that while some of the proceeds are used toward the Regional Day School prom, that event will be a little different this year.
“They are moving the location. It will be the first time for it not to be in the school. It will be at the Clarion Hotel on Route 37 in Toms River,” the superintendent said.
Michallis confirmed that news, adding that the funds will go for entertainment and food for the May 31 event. “Our graduation is Friday, June 7 and we do a catered lunch and graduation party for our graduates and their families.”
Michallis thanked everyone who came out for the day’s event. She also drew the names for the raffle of numerous gift baskets. “We have 35 people jumping into the lake today!”
“I’m brand new at this,” Penguin mascot and Regional Day School para professional Kristin Butts said. She not only flapped her wings and posed for photos but also entered the water for some aquatic fun.
“This is my 11th year, I plunge every year,” Michallis said. “This was the best weather day we’ve ever had. I’m going to guess that we raised $3,500. Manchester PBA donated $1,000 today. They are always a great supporter along with the Drug and Alcohol Alliance.”
Pedroza commented after her plunge, “I thought it was awesome. The water was fine, a little chilly but it was for a good cause.”
Pedroza also noted another recent fun event involving the school district, a touch a truck that served as a fundraiser for the Middle School. Due to rain, it had to be relocated to the grounds of Manchester High School.
“Besides a lot of Manchester people, we had a lot of people from the county. We sold a lot of wrist bands and had a lot of vendors there. In terms of Manchester we had the police, we had the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, and a big towing company who had six or seven trucks there,” she added. “The biggest attraction was the petting zoo. We had a really great time and a really nice day.”
