Hundreds to brave icy waters at Palatine plunge

Nearly 300 brave souls are set to brave the icy waters of Twin Lakes in Palatine for charity Sunday during the annual Polar Plunge for Special Olympics.

Dan Conley, area 18 director of Special Olympics Illinois, said the group hopes to raise more $105,000 at the event, taking place at 10 a.m. at the Twin Lakes Recreational Area. Last year's plunge raised $96,000.

As of Thursday, the 286 registered plungers have raised $74,870, and Conley said there are many who will bring collected donations with them Sunday. To take the plunge one must raise at least $75.

The top three money collectors will be awarded special trophies - wooden toilet plungers with an attached white fuzzy polar bear and plaque - in gold, silver and bronze. Local high school groups also will be competing for unique trophies.

Plungers are encouraged to park at the post office distribution facility at 1300 E. Northwest Highway, where they can get a shuttle to Twin Lakes.