The Polar Plunge into Chetola Lake will be the frozen centerpiece of the 20th annual WinterFest in Blowing Rock, which begins on Thursday, January 25. The Plunge will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 27. Joan Hearn will be the Polar Plunge Queen, and her husband, Dick, who recently passed away, will be honored. The Hearns have been jumpers for years, each time in elaborate costumes that Joan made by hand. In addition to being longtime plungers, the Hearns contributed an incredible amount of time and hard work to local non-profits and volunteer efforts. Dick Hearn was a cherished member of the community and will be dearly missed.
The Polar Plunge will once again benefit local charities; John Carter of WBTV Charlotte will emcee. Details at blowingrockwinterfest.com/event/polar-plunge-chetola-resort/.