'Polar Plunge' on Saturday benefits Special Olympics

MASSENA — It won't be quite "polar," but there will be plenty of costumed people waiting to plunge into the St. Lawrence River this weekend.

Saturday's polar plunge, which will benefit the Special Olympics, will be open to the public. To make the event more enticing for divers, it was scheduled a bit earlier than most other plunges around the north country.

The dive begins at 2 p.m., but registration starts at noon Saturday at Hawkins Point Visitors Center. To take the plunge, people have to donate at least $1, but those who raise $100 or more will receive sweatshirts and other prizes. There also will be raffles of things donated by area businesses. There will be prizes for the oldest and youngest diver, as well as the most interesting costume.