Collegio Online

Issue date: 1/31/08 Section: Campus Life

Media Credit: file photo Left to right, Corey Hamm, Matt Emery, Kyle Green, Luke Hibbs and Mikael Peters, members of Phi Sigma Kappa, participate in last year's Polar Bear Plunge at the University Lake. The students helped raise money for the Southeast Kansas Special Olympics.

It's time again for brave souls to test the icy depths of University Lake in the Second annual Polar Bear Plunge, a fund-raiser put on by Special Olympics of Kansas.

"The first Polar Bear Plunge took place in Kansas City, Kan., eleven years ago by members of the law enforcement who were involved with the torch run," Janna Fornelli, a member of the Special Olympics staff, said.

According to Fornelli, last year Pittsburg had 53 "plungers" and raised about $3,200 for the Kansas Special Olympics.
Those who wish to participate must raise a minimum of $75 in pledges.

"With the $75 people raise they will receive a sweatshirt at the event," Fornelli said.

"The more money you can raise the better the prizes will be, though."

The Special Olympics of Kansas has made it easier for potential fund-raisers to get started.

"We have online tools to allow people to set up sites for donations that are secure," Fornelli said.

According to Fornelli, participation requires three steps: First, register online at www.ksso.org or register on the day of the event. Next, collect pledges and raise that money. Last, show up on the day of the event.

If diving into frigid waters doesn't sound pleasant, then people can donate money to those who will take the risk.
Awards will be given for best costume (individual and team), wimpiest plunge, most enthusiastic plunge and highest fundraising (individual and team).

Registration begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 9, and the plunge will start at noon. A pizza party will begin at 12:45 p.m. at Wheat State Pizza at 1618 S. Broadway.

For more information, visit www.ksso.org or call John Lair at 231-9895 or e-mail jmlair73@yahoo.com.

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