Freezin' for a reason

What’s the best thing to do at Pettibone Beach this time of year? Go swimming, of course. On March 6 an estimated 1,200 people will do just that as they participate in the 2010 Polar Plunge.
With all the proceeds going to local Special Olympic events, the Polar Plunge is a great opportunity for students to get involved. “It’s a fun community event,” said Kerry Gloede, Plunge Committee Member.
Fun may be an understatement, as many “plungers” come dressed for the occasion in costumes. Special Recreation Event Coordinator Laura Cox has seen everything from mullets to crayons, and even inflatable outfits. One of the craziest costumes she has seen was a group of men who wore only Speedos. “I guess less is better,” she said.
Gloede also shared that she liked the theme chosen once by the Chartwells team. They dressed as the assistants from Deal or No Deal, complete with silver briefcases.
For those who don’t want to take the plunge, there is the option to register as “Too Chicken.” This allows for participating on a team even if you’re not up to the ice-cold challenge.
“We do encourage chicken outfits,” Cox commented.
The best part is that all of this excitement is for the benefit of area Special Olympians. “We have the second largest Special Olympic program in Wisconsin,” stated Cox.
Becoming involved in the event is just a three-step process. First, plungers need to register. This can be done online or on registration forms found at area Kwik Trips.
Next, plungers need to raise pledges. Plunge Web pages can be created at SpecialOlympicsWisconsin.org so that family and friends can use their credit cards to contribute.
Lastly, plungers have to bring their pledges to a pre-registration or to the actual event on March 6 to collect incentives.
Incentives begin after having raised $75, the prize for which is an official Plunge long-sleeve t-shirt. Participants also need to sign a waiver before they jump.
For students who don’t have transportation to the event, Cox explained that free shuttle service, including a UW-L pick up, will be available.
Cox and Gloede are expected around 1,200 participants this year, as they try to match last year’s 1,249. “We’re up on numbers right now,” shared Cox.
Pre-registration begins at 9 a.m. and plunging begins at noon, but the fun lasts all day long. There will be a Celebration Party from 5-8 p.m. at Baus Haus, and a Post-Plunge Party afterward, featuring Pat McCurdy.

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