OGDENSBURG – It’s time to start thinking about a costume and a pledge for the fifth annual Polar Bear Plunge Saturday, Feb. 18 at the City Marina, ice or no ice.

The 1 p.m. challenge is one of River Shiver’s most popular events, sponsored by the Greater Ogdensburg Chamber of Commerce and the Ogdensburg Volunteer Rescue Squad.

Last year spectators stood on the banks of the St. Lawrence on a cold windy day and cheered on 32 jumpers.

The cost to enter the plunge is $35 in pledges per person.

The person bringing in the most pledges will win 10 percent of the purse. Last year Jon Jones won $580. Each jumper will receive a commemorative mug compliments of Community Broadcasters. There are pizes for the best costumes.

Pledge forms can be obtained at the chamber office at 1 Bridge Plaza or ogdensburgny.com.

The Rescue Squad will with be cutting a hole in the ice, providing divers and harnesses for safety and arranging for a hot tub to be available on the patio of the Visitor’s Center for after the plunge. Participants will have the boaters lounge at the Visitor’s Center for their changing quarters and hot showers.

Hot food and drinks will be available inside the Visitors Center for spectators and plungers alike..

A huge 50/50 raffle will be held, door prizes given out, and new this year, a photographer taking pictures of the jumpers. Color picture of yourself demonstrating your bravado are $5.

Children under 18 years of age must have the written consent of a parent.

Call Sandy Porter at the chamber office with any questions or to register, 393-3620.