March 7th, 2026. A sky the color of brushed steel hung over their heads. The icy expanse of Lake Nokomis, which they were to go into, spread out all around them. But they weren’t daunted. They had determined to support a great cause, and dressed to commit heroic deeds.
“This was our 14th year in a row doing the polar plunge,” said Ryan Platzke, top hot dog at Platzke Real Estate Group. “It’s one of my all-time favorite traditions, where a good-sized contingent of my team and my own family join up in support of Special Olympics Minnesota.
“In previous years, participants lined up at a big hole cut into the ice and took turns jumping in. This year’s weather required us to start at the shore, and wade out to a chest-high pole. It was a lot more buildup … a lot more anticipation, as little icebergs bob up and down alongside you … but nothing can prepare you for the shock that takes over when you dive fully under. Breath? Gone. Vision? Blurred. Heart? Beating out of its ribcage. Thrilling, to say the least!
“I can’t express the pride I felt wading out with my twins Mason and Andi – two very special cocktail wieners, who truly earned their places in the celebratory warming tent.
“I’d like to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped us shatter our goal of raising $5,000 for Special Olympics Minnesota. The nonprofit organization does outstanding and inspiring work providing opportunities to compete, build confidence, and be part of a supportive, inclusive community to athletes with intellectual disabilities.”
Upon discovering that Ryan owns a gently used hot dog costume, I had to ask.
“No,” he laughed. “No, I don’t think I’ll be wearing it to house showings anytime soon.”
SpecialOlympicsMinnesota.org | PlatzkeRealEstateGroup.com