By Brandi Makuski

Local police will make an appearance at Saturday’s Polar Plunge in Wisconsin Rapids.

Police Chief Marty Skibba said he and nine other members of the Stevens Point Police Department are taking the plunge into the freezing waters of the Wisconsin River.

“We’ll effectively become ‘copsicles’ at that point,” Skibba said on Tuesday. “But it’s for a good cause, so we’re going for it. I’m going for it.”

Portage Co. Chief Deputy Dan Kontos said at least one sheriff’s deputy is also participating in the plunge.

The plunge, which takes place at Anchor Bay Bar & Grill, is one of many across the state that raises money for Special Olympics. Last year’s event at Anchor Bay saw more than 400 participants and raised over $58,000.

Anyone interested in supporting the police department’s plunge can drop off a monetary donation by Friday, Feb. 5, at the service window of the Stevens Point Police Dept., located in the basement of the courthouse, 1516 Church Street. The service window is open 7:30 AM through 4 PM.

Anchor Bay Bar & Grill is located at 3460 North Biron Dr. in Wisconsin Rapids. Check-in for jumpers is at 10 AM and the plunge begins at noon.