Duane Hicks
The local Voyageur Lions Club’s annual “Polar Plunge” once again is set for New Year’s Day on Sand Bay, and organizers feel it will be better than last year.
“We’ve got about 25, close to 30, confirmed and that’s not bad,” said club member Bill Michl.
“A lot of people just show up so I’m thinking we’re really close to 50, but only this many sent in [registration] sheets,” he noted.
The “Plunge” which will start at 1 p.m. by the dock behind La Place Rendez-Vous, with registration getting underway at 11 a.m.
Michl said it’s not too late for anyone to start collecting pledges to take an icy dip on Jan. 1. In fact, quite a few people show up the day of the “Plunge” with money in hand—sometimes as a result of a New Year’s Eve bet.
Jumpers can take the plunge on their own, or as a representative of a local group or organization.
Participating groups receive half of the net proceeds raised by jumpers while those interested in doing so as individuals raise funds for the Voyageur Lions.
The group that raises the most money gets an extra $300 back. There also are prizes for top pledge-getter and best costumes.
While some people just donate a sum of money and jump, Michl said all participants strongly are encouraged to collect pledges.
Instead of T-shirts, participants this year will get a “Polar Plunge” toque made by Diana’s Needle Art & Embroidery. But Michl noted the Lions would appreciate it if any plungers raised at least $200.
“When people just raise $20 and jump, we lose money,” he explained. “We have to give half of it back and then we don’t even have enough to cover the price of the toque.
“If you want toque, please raise at least $200,” Michl said. “This way we get some money, too.”
Michl noted a fair number of groups are participating, along with quite a few individuals.
For example, there’s an ongoing challenge between the Valley Adult Learning Association, Northern Community Development Services, and United Native Friendship Centre, which Michl hopes generates plenty of pledge dollars.
Meanwhile, a group from the high school has set a target goal. If they reach it, several teachers will have to jump, too.
“We have a group from Rainycrest again and they raised pretty good money last year,” added Michl.
Additionally, Michl and fellow Lions Dale Gill, Wayne Lundstrom, and Eric Blondin will take the plunge.
Michl is keeping his fingers crossed the weather will stay around the freezing point, with little snowfall between now and New Year’s Day.
He said the ice must be at least eight inches thick or spectators won’t be able to stand on it.
This past January’s “Polar Plunge” saw 25 jumpers raise $6,581 in all.
For more info or to obtain pledge sheets, call Michl at 276-1334.
