Page 10 THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FriDAy, MArCH 14, 2025 Second-place winner does Special Olympics Polar Plunge in memory of aunt Shown from left to right: Saugus Police supporters Ashley Alba, Caitlin O’Brien, Briana Muzyka, Detective Stacey Forni and Shelagh Vozzella. Second-place winners Amy and Amanda Amirault jumped into the freezing waters. By Tara Vocino T he First Annual Special Olympics Polar Plunge on Sunday afternoon raised almost $10,000 with 60 plungers participating outside of the Knights of Columbus. The second-place winner drew inspiration from her late aunt. Amy Amirault, who owns Tiger Institute Tae Kwon Do, won second place for overall fundraiser, and her team placed second. Amirault’s aunt Susie, 60, who had Down syndrome, benefited greatly from the Special Olympics. Amirault said Susie was a very special part of her family, and having her in her life made her a more patient/kind person and taught her to appreciate the simple things in life. “As a martial arts instructor, it is my responsibility to impart not only the physical skills, but also the virtues of our system, including citizenship, community service, and leadership,” Amirault said. “We practice inclusivity in a way that accepts students of all abilities, and celebrates their uniqueness.” She added that growing up with her special aunt has helped her to successfully teach individuals with developmental disabilities, many of whom have thrived in her programs. Saugus Police Detective Youth & Recreation Director Crystal Cakounes won Most Spirited Plunger and is shown with her son, Brackett. Stacey Forni, who was the top fundraising individual, wanted to thank McDonald’s (southbound), Prince Pizzeria, volunteers and the Knights of Columbus for their generous donations. “These events wouldn’t happen without the businesses and people who donate/volunteer,” Forni said. Saugus Police won top fundraising team, while CrysPOLAR PLUNGE | SEE PAGE 11 Second-place winner Amy Amirault drew inspiration from her late aunt, Susie Amirault, 60, who had Down syndrome. Shown from left to right: Special Olympics Development Director Christian McCormick, Special Olympics Fundraising Coordinator Kylie Cronin, Coach Stephen Boudreau, Youth & Recreation Director Crystal Cakounes, Brackett Marshall. (Advocate photos by Tara Vocino) Shown from left to right: Amy Amirault, Karin Anderson, Amanda Amirault, Tashima Gallant, Emilie Ménard, Josh Bloom and Tony DiPesa won second place. (Courtesy photos, Amy Amirault)
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