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By Chuck Hagee
Writer for Alexandria Gazette
January 5, 2006
ODBC Hosts 'Polar Burr Plunge'
On the first day of the new year nearly three dozen
hearty souls, jumped into the frigid Potomac River from the pier of the
Old Dominion Boat Club to raise money for the American Liver
Foundation. With Alexandria Fire Department EMS Marine Operations Team
members standing by and a cheering crowd of onlookers filling both of
the club's King Street piers, 34 plungers, clad in everything from
normal bathing suits to a pair of fire-engine red long johns, in they
jumped in groups of four and five. One adventurer took the plunge in a
tuxedo. The foundation raised approximately $5,500 for their research
projects, according to Lora Jackson, executive director of the area
chapter.
"In addition to the 34 who jumped into the river
there were many more who attended the post-plunge party at the club,"
she said. The event was promoted to Washington D.C., Maryland and
Virginia Masters swim program, children's swim teams, high school and
college swim teams and triathletes. No actual swimming was required —
participants jumped into the water, got to the ladder and exited as soon
as possible, shivering into the club.
"From its earliest history, the Old Dominion Boat
Club has been a continuous supporter of charitable institutions," said
Chris Marino, president of the ODBC. "The recent death of one of our
active member, Dave Penland, who succumbed to liver disease at age 59,
inspired us to partner with the foundation in their efforts to raise
awareness and funds for research."
Joining ODBC in sponsoring the event were America
Online, Design Cuisine, Sport & Health Clubs, Catalyst and Arena Sport.
"Everyone's generosity in supporting our efforts to raise money will
help towards life-saving research, education, and the annihilation of
liver disease," said Catherine Roper, community event coordinator for
the foundation.
The foundation provides research, education and advocacy for those
affected by hepatitis and other liver-related diseases.
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