Enjoy An Icy Dip In Southington, Help Kids Enjoy Summer

SOUTHINGTON, CT — The mild winter this year has put a dent in the visual drama surrounding polar plunge-type events in a lake or pond's icy waters.

But the absence of having to cut through ice this year doesn't make the water is any warmer. It's still mighty cold.

And, next week, the Southington and Cheshire communities are expected to go out to the Southington-Cheshire Community YMCA's Camp Sloper, 1000 East St., Southington, to raise money in Sloper Pond's cold water so cash-strapped families can still send their children to summer camp.

The 18th annual Sloper Plunge will take place Saturday, Feb. 25, with individual and team check-in at the Southington Community YMCA's main building at 29 High St. on Friday, Feb. 24, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Registration also is available just prior to the plunge, with a second period of registration slated at Camp Sloper on Saturday, Feb. 25, at noon.

Shortly after that, folks will dash in the water and enjoy a relaxing, refreshing dip in the water ... at least if it was in July.

Because the event is taking place at the end of February, well, let's just say "relaxing" and "refreshing" are not exactly the best words to describe the experience.

But its all for a good cause.

As any parent will attest, sending a child to summer camp can get pricy, but the benefits are immense.

Hence, the availability of scholarships for financially challenged families whose children could use a camp experience when the summer arrives.

There are several ways to sign up and donate as well, with easy, online access available.

One of many community servants expected to get really cold Saturday is Southington Police Department Master Sgt. Justin Burke, who posted an exciting announcement about the Sloper Plunge this week.

"Officially less than a week away. Thank you very much to those that have donated already," wrote Burke. "Please consider donating to allow the kids of Southington to attend summer camp at Camp Sloper. Looks like it will be nice and cold for jump day on Saturday."

For the record, the weather forecast isn't calling for any massive snowstorm on Saturday, but it will be mighty cold, a high of 29 degrees with the chance of some snow showers.

For those not brave enough to jump in, they can always come and watch and make some donations too.

These types of events are always fun to see.

To donate to the 2023 Sloper Plunge, click on this link.

For registration information on the 2023 Sloper Plunge, click on this link.

For more information on the Southington-Cheshire Community YMCA's Camp Sloper, click on this link.

For more information on the Southington-Cheshire Community YMCA, click on this link.