Forty-five "polar bears" took the plunge this weekend to help raise money for a local Catholic school.

During the second annual St. Joseph's Regional Academy Polar Plunge, held at Mauch Chunk Lake in Jim Thorpe on Saturday, dozens of jumpers, as well as 11 chickens who registered for the event but chose not to jump, braved the cold winter temperatures to participate in the event. Some were dressed in costumes, while others donned their summer attire.When all was said and done, more than $10,700 was raised for the school.Amanda Salovay, the principal of the school, who jumped all the way in because the students raised over $10,000, said she was happy with the turnout."This was great," she said. "I was very excited. The money raised is helping us meet fundraising goals and will also help with extra projects at the school."Kathy Goff, one of the organizers of the event, said she was pleasantly surprised by the number of people who braved the winter storm that dropped nearly a half foot across the area a few hours earlier to cheer on the plungers."Today was fun considering the weather," she said. "I'm thrilled by the turnout and the number of repeat plungers from last year's event."Plungers Heather and Joe Dowling of Jim Thorpe, who donned a bridal gown and tuxedo, were thrilled to be taking the plunge for the school that their children attend.This was the first time the couple jumped.Prior to the jump the Jim Thorpe fire departments cut through the nearly 7-inch-thick ice to make a large enough area to jump. Ann Marie Calabrese from Magic 105.5 broadcast live from the event.Rescue divers and medical personnel of St. Luke's Health Network were on hand in case anyone needed assistance.