Fox River Shiver raises more than $10,000 for charity
The Broken Oar on the Fox River in Port Barrington hosted its second annual Fox River Shiver Sunday, March 9, when fearless, costume-clad volunteers gathered to brave the icy 32.5-degree waters and frigid air for charity.
Volunteers were surrounded by hundreds of spectators who came out to support the event and cheer for the more than 50 jumpers who ranged in age from 12-year-old Hannah Remke from McHenry, who raised $100 in one day, on up.
Chicago Bear Matt Slauson was also in attendance to take pictures and sign autographs for the crowd.
After days of preparation to cut through the more than 10 inches of ice on the river to create the "plunge" area, the festivities kicked off at noon, the main event at 2 p.m. and the post party with live entertainment immediately following and going well into the evening.
Awards were given for best costumes, best team concept, most money raised by an individual or team, and best lower river business presence.
Teams, individuals and lower river businesses collected pledge money from friends, family and customers to sponsor them to take the "plunge" for One Small Voice Foundation, benefiting Lurie Children's Hospital.
Broken Oar added their proceeds from sales for the day to bring the total money raised for the event to more than $10,000.
The Broken Oar is at 614 Rawson Bridge Road.