People lining up to take the ‘Plunge’

Now that Christmas in over, it’s time to think of plunging into the lake! And in fact, many groups in town have declared their intention to take the “Polar Plunge” on New Year’s Day.
The skateboard park group is back to defend its title as top group fundraiser.
But competition is expected to be close with challenges from the Muskie football team, the Visserettes gymnastic club, Fort Frances Aquanauts Swim Team, and the local Special Olympics.
Newcomers who will be jumping in include members of the new FFHS Muskie Sports Association and Couchiching Hockey for Kids. Fort High’s Leo Club also will send a “plunger.”
Representing the Voyageur Lions Club, Jim Martindale, Dale Gill, and Bill Michl will be making waves for top jumper. But there is another Gill in the wings ready to cannonball these guys.
All will be revealed on the ice!
Maureen Hahkala, a perennial costume winner, has another surprise outfit for this year. Alex Cruickshank, the Times’ sports reporter, will be doing in-depth coverage of the event.
Local B•93 radio station personalities Jenni Condon and Jay Desrosiers are taking the big jump and will put their style on show—maybe more than once!
They are being challenged by Luke Cawston from “The Wolf,” who is promising minimal exposure for the right amount of money.
Lyle Dolph and Gillian Gustafson once more will show the older generation how it’s done. As well, Shari Humphrey, Greg Mattson, Derek Horton, and Jessica Bird are looking for pledges.
The annual event is set to get underway at 1 p.m. on New Year’s Day at the La Place Rendez-Vous dock.
The hotel will have snacks and beverages available to fight off the chilly air, although organizers are hoping for a mild, jumper-friendly day.
Spectators wishing to pledge before the “plunge” begins can check in at the registration desk in the hotel.
“Plungers” are asked to arrive at the Rendez-Vous by 11:30 a.m. to register and turn in their pledges.
There’s still time to be a part of this event as “plungers” are accepted up to 12:30 p.m. of the day of the event. Don’t forget there are prizes based on the pledges turned in, as well as prizes for best costume.
Proceeds from this event will be shared by the groups participating and the local Voyageur Lions Club.