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Howell Shivers For A Special Cause
By Keith Hagarty
 | | --Photo Courtesy Of Dr. Hal Ornstein Members of the Howell First Aid Squad and Ramtown and Southard Fire Departments share the joy in 38-degree ocean waters during last week's 15th Annual Polar Bear Plunge to benefit Special Olympics New Jersey. |
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More than ready to say goodbye to old man winter, nearly 2,500 participants chose mind over matter last week as they stripped down to their skivvies and dashed into the frigid Atlantic Ocean to raise money for a good cause at the 15th Annual Law Enforcement Polar Bear Plunge to benefit Special Olympics New Jersey.
Held on the beach of Seaside Heights, brothers Tyler Ornstein, 12, and Zack, 10, took a deep breath and then leaped into the chilly surf, raising $300 for the cause. The brothers were joined in the icy dip by several Howell residents, including members of the Howell First Aid and Southard and Ramtown Fire Departments.
Despite his young age, Tyler was already participating in his third polar bear plunge, initially getting involved through his volunteer work with the Southard Fire Department. However, Tyler, who hopes to be an active Southard firefighter someday, admits the first time you take the plunge is always the scariest.
"I was very nervous because I did not know what to expect," he said. "Since I was never in water this cold, I just didn't know how it would and if it hurt. I was afraid it would take my breath away."
Many of Tyler's friends, teachers and people he's told about his plunge adventures still can't believe it. "The most common things heard were 'You are crazy!'" he said. "It happens so fast, and the little pain is well worth the gain for those who benefits from the great Special Olympic programs. This year, my cousin Paula and brother Zack took the plunge and they're looking forward to next year."
With water temperatures hovering around 38-degrees, this year's plunge has raised over $491,000 to date, and is growing each and every day, according to event organizers.
Special Olympics New Jersey provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. While developing fitness, the event also helps participants develop and showcase their courage and experience new feats of accomplishment and friendships.
Tyler credited his brother with raising much of the money for their efforts, but added his parents' longtime active involvement in the community as a steady motivating influence.
"I watch how happy they are during the activities when they are helping others and share a lot of joy speaking about it after the events," he said. "It's the way they live their lives."
Tyler and his brother are currently raising money for the next Special Olympics New Jersey event, the Torch Run in May in preparations for the summer games.
For more information about donating or volunteering for the Special Olympics, call 800-650-SONJ or visit their Web site at www. sonj.com.
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