Minooka's Fowler Sizzles at Polar Plunge

Around his own home, Carl Fowler is known as Papa Bear.

Now, he is the King Polar Bear, too.

Fowler, a Minooka resident who works as an overhead transmission operations coordinator for ComEd, was the top individual fundraiser during Special Olympics Chicago's 13th annual Polar Plunge.

He raised $4,565—far surpassing his initial goal of $2,000—during the recent event to benefit Special Olympics Chicago in the cold waters of Lake Michigan. ComEd employees raised more than $55,000, including ComEd’s sponsorship of $10,000.

Special Olympics Chicago officials estimated there were 2,500 plungers at the event, all working toward a goal of raising $1 million.

“ComEd and our employees are longtime advocates of Special Olympics Chicago and their annual Polar Plunge,” said Joe Svachula in a news release. Svachula is ComEd’s vice president of field operations and Special Olympics Chicago board member.

“The Polar Plunge is always a fun, team-building event for our employees as they brave the elements and make their way into Lake Michigan,” Svachula said. “We are proud to bring visibility and awareness to Special Olympics Chicago and the wonderful athletes they continue to assist throughout the year.”