Will You be a 'Below Zero Hero,' Muskego?

With unseasonably mild temperatures marking much of this winter, more participants may be likely to do the unthinkable and leap off the dock at Muskego County Park on Feb. 12.

The annual Polar Plunge to benefit Wisconsin Special Olympics will be held again, along with much fanfare, music, and mercifully - a hot tub.

There are two ways to participate, so even those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land can support Special Olympics Wisconsin and be a part of all the fun! Event participants can register to take the Plunge or sign up as "Too Chicken to Plunge". "Chickens" can still raise donations and join a team. They will even get their own t-shirt proclaiming "I was Too Chicken to Plunge".

The Muskego Polar Plunge offers a day of fun including "Toss your Boss", heated tents, hot tubs, live music, souvenirs, raffles, and concessions provided by Matty's Bar and Grille. For added comfort and safety, Tess Corners Fire and Rescue EMS will also be on hand.

The statewide event dates back to March of 1999 where the first Plunge was held at Lake Onalaska with 315 Plungers raising more than $30,000. Since then, Wisconsin Polar Plungers have helped raise more than $12 million for Special Olympics athletes. In 2011 9,320 participants helped raise more than $1.9 million at 12 Polar Plunge venues.