MASSENA -- Nearly 15 teams and more than 80 people from all over St. Lawrence County are already signed up for the fourth annual St. Lawrence Seaway Polar Plunge for Special Olympics New York at noon Saturday, Nov. 5, at Hawkins Point Visitors Center.

Last year, nearly $20,000 was raised at this event, and with a significant increase in participants they hope to surpass last year’s total.

The plunge in Massena, one of a dozen happening around the state, will take place no matter how cold the temperature is.

Registration starts at 9 a.m., and there will be several events throughout the morning, including live remotes from radio stations 101.5 The Fox, Mix 96.1 and WMSA 1340 AM.

Plunge organizers are looking for more teams and individuals, especially from high schools and colleges. Teams have already signed up from the Potsdam State Lacrosse Team, Clarkson University and Massena Varsity Cheerleading.

Other groups that will be taking the Plunge include New York State Federal Agents, New York State Police, North Country Insurance Professionals, New York Power Authority, Hollywood Hair, and Pit Stop Pub.

The plunge is an opportunity for anyone who wants to support Special Olympics.

There are a number of incentives for the St. Lawrence Plunge this year. For every $20 raised plungers will receive one raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes. Every plunger who raises $100 will receive a Polar Plunge sweatshirt, and there are additional Polar Plunge incentives for those who raise more money.

Those who want to participate but do not want to jump into the icy water are welcome to join the Chicken Coop, a VIP area where individuals will have preferred viewing, food and beverages and tons of fun and entertainment, while receiving all of the same incentives as plungers and without having to take a chilly dip. A $50 fundraising minimum is required for Chickens.

Special Olympics is the largest amateur sports organization in the world. With 51,809 athletes, Special Olympics New York is the largest chapter in North America and the sixth largest chapter in the world. Special Olympics New York athletes train and compete year-round in 22 sports, the Young Athletes Program and the Motor Activities Training Program – at no cost to the athlete, their families or their caregivers.

For information on taking part in the St. Lawrence Seaway Polar Plunge, contact Michelle Iorizzo at Special Olympics New York at 518 388-0790 or miorizzo@nyso.org. You can sign up for the Plunge online at www.tinyurl.com/StLawPlunge2011.

More information can also be found at their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/stlawrenceplunge.