On Saturday, January 29 in White Bear Lake, for the third consecutive year Midwest Staffing participated in the Polar Bear Plunge raising over $2,100. The Polar Bear Plunge is presented by the Minnesota Law Enforcement to support the Special Olympics of Minnesota. This “Plunge” is not just a stroll in the park. Occurring during the coldest and most unforgiving Minnesota months of January, February and March the “Plunge” can be quite intense.
Mike Thoemke VP of Operations reaches for a beach ball before hitting the icy waters.
The Polar Bear Plunge doesn’t start or end with one freezing plunge but is a day filled with plunging events. The day begins at 9am with registration at Jimmy’s Food and Drink, then at 11am there is a costume contest for numerous categories, the best male, the best female, the best team and then the best patriotic costume is judged. It is not until noon that the plunging begins and continues throughout the rest of the afternoon. Plungers and spectators are conveniently shuttled to and from Jimmy’s to the freezing waters of White Bear Lake. Live music by Pearl played and Jimmy’s announced the costume winners. Food and drinks specials were being served throughout the event.
Chelsey Roesner decided to join the Midwest Staffing team after watching the team plunge in 2010. Chelsey is a graduate of Sauk Rapids High School, MN and is now part of the Bridges Program for 18-21 yr olds at Sauk Rapids/Rice High Schools. She has been involved with the Special Olympics Gymnastics team for about 7 years. She competes in bars, beam, floor exercise and the vault. When Chelsey’s Mother Denise asked her “Why?” she wanted to plunge, Chelsey responded with “I love Special Olympics and if I jump maybe more people can be in Special Olympics.” Chelsey is already planning for next year’s plunge this time with her family and friends with a “Sponge Bob Square Pants” theme to win the costume contest.
If interested in participating in a plunge, visit the Special Olympics website for a location near you and plunge dates running through March 12. Also, a special thanks to Chelsey Roesner for participating with the Midwest Staffing team and everyone who supported this event along with the Midwest Staffing team sponsors. Please Visit our facebook fan page for photos and video of the plunge.