Staff
Fresh faces are lining up to take the plunge.
The local Voyageur Lions Club is getting ready for its annual “Polar Plunge” here New Year’s Day, and is expecting some new brave souls to jump into the frigid waters of Sand Bay through a hole in the ice.
“We seem to have a lot of new groups this year,” enthused club member Bill Michl. “We’re getting a lot of different groups out.
“It’s coming together.”
These range from local jail workers and Friends of Animals to Paws and Claws (Koochiching County) and Guatemala Outreach.
“I think everybody is thinking of causes this time of year and are looking for a good way to give back,” reasoned Michl.
Michl said he’s aware of 24 jumpers who have signed up but is anticipating several Muskie teams—which often show up the day of the “Polar Plunge”—to also participate.
This could bring the number of plungers closer to 50, he noted.
It’s not too late for anyone to sign up and, in fact, it’s not unusual for folks to decide to jump on New Year’s Eve, added Michl, saying it certainly will cure a hangover.
Michl stressed anybody can participate, but they have to jump on behalf of a registered charity or a non-profit organization.
Those who don’t have a charity to support can jump for the Voyageurs Lions Club.
The charity or non-profit organization then receives half of the net proceeds raised by its respective jumpers.
The rest of the funds go to the Voyageur Lions’ project fund, which supports local initiatives (generally geared toward children), as well as some national and international efforts.
“There’s so many good charities out there and this is the time of the year for giving,” said Michl.
“What better way to get the community’s support?”
The Voyageur Lions only ask that jumpers get a minimum of $50 in pledges (those who do get a toque).
There also will be prizes for the participants who are the top fundraisers (individual and group).
As well, Michl urged participants to dress up in costumes, as it not only adds to the fun but there will be prizes.
He admitted it may be colder for jumpers when they crawl out of the water with a wet costume on, but at least people get more of a show.
Any jumpers interested are urged to contact Michl at 276-1334.
The “Polar Plunge” once again will take place at the dock behind La Place Rendez-Vous.
Registration starts at 11 a.m., with the jumping to begin at 1 p.m. sharp.
The Rendez-Vous is supplying some hot chocolate and chili for the participants.
Michl said there are no concerns about the ice quality for New Year’s Day this winter thanks to the solid stretch of frigid temperatures earlier this month.
“The ice is good. We’ve gone and walked on it,” he noted.
“Somebody said there’s a foot of ice up on the north arm already—they went ice-fishing,” Michl added.
“So if there’s a foot in the north arm, I’m sure we got close to that here, too.”
