Of special interest this year is the crowning of a new Polar Bear Queen. Yes, the legendary Irene Jameson is officially retiring and will officially bequeath her title to one of four finalists on Friday, Feb. 15, at 7 p.m. at La Costa.
According to Diane Merson of the SICTC, the new queen must meet specific requirements. “She must be at least 21 years of age, be willing to sit on a throne of ice, and actually take the plunge with the other polar bears.” Additionally, contestants will be judged on their personalities and must answer several questions posed by a panel of judges. They will also be critiqued on how much money they raise for charity.
Jameson, who also retired as director of Sea Isle City’s Public Relations Department after 18 years, was the original organizer of the city’s first Polar Bear Plunge. On the first year, Jameson’s husband, John, painted “AARP” on the backside of her swimsuit. That started the whole idea of wearing a costume every year. Some of her costumes are on display at the Sea Isle City Historical Museum.
“I was supposed to retire after my 10th plunge when I was 79, but I wanted to keep going into my 80s. Now, I am sad but I am also glad, and I am sure that the Tourism Commission will do a good job selecting a new queen,” said Jameson.
On Saturday, judging for the costume contest will be between noon and 1:30 p.m. Only registered polar bears are eligible.
Registration for the plunge will be at the Beach Tag Office on JFK Boulevard on Friday night, 6 – 8 p.m., and Saturday morning, 10 a.m.– noon. Entry fee is $25 and includes a t-shirt and the post-plunge party at the La Costa tent with a complimentary buffet and entertainment.
The Polar Bear Plunge starts at 2 p.m. at 41st Street beach and will be led by the new queen and celebrity plunger, Doug Kammerer, CBS meteorologist. SOJO 104.9 will be broadcasting live from the promenade. Watchers can also purchase hot dogs, coffee, and hot chocolate. Mike’s Seafood is providing complementary New England clam chowder.
“Make your dinner reservations early for Polar Bear Weekend,” advises Tourism Representative Diane Merson. “We’re once again expecting a tremendous crowd in Sea Isle this weekend. Also, we suggest that people register early for the plunge to beat the crowds.”
