Go jump in The Lake

Rock County Sheriff Evan Verbrugge is challenging Rock County residents to jump in The Lake Feb. 11.
Called the Luverne Leap — Reezin’ for Freezin’, the fundraiser will benefit the Luverne Area Community Foundation.
“We are hoping for a good turnout,” said Verbrugge, who will take the first plunge into freezing water.
“It’s cold,” he warned. “I did it in St. Peter in temperatures about 35 degrees. We plan to jump (in Luverne) unless the weather is really bad.”
The challenge is open to individuals, teams and businesses to sign up on the Luverne Area Community Foundation social media or directly at https://luverne.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create.
Those who want to sign up for the Luverne Leap must pay the initial $25 pledge and then raise an additional $75 before the Feb. 11 event.
Prizes will be awarded for best costume and for top fundraising among individuals and teams/businesses. Top fundraisers will receive a special delivery from the sheriff’s office.
“Basically, this will be that the sheriff’s office will be bringing them donuts and coffee,” Verbrugge said. “We want the money to stay local in Rock County.”
LACF is a countywide organization that supports community nonprofits through grant requests in five focus areas: arts and humanities, community and civic affairs, social and economic growth, environmental and beautification, community wellness and health care.
Donors may designate a Rock County community to receive their money.
Emily Crabtree is the LACF executive director.
“We hope that any organization that has received a grant from the Luverne Area Community Foundation will consider a designated jumper as part of their giving back to donors and their community,” she said.
The Luverne Leap — Reezin’ for Freezin’
begins at noon Saturday, Feb. 11, at The Lake, 601 Edgehill St. in Luverne.
The Luverne Fire Department will cut the hole in the ice (at a depth no deeper than 5 feet) and supply two firemen in “gumby” suits in the water to help people in and out of the water.
The festive event will have music, free hot chocolate, and a backdrop for selfies, and a master of ceremonies will announce names of those jumping into the water. Emergency personnel will also be on site for the event.
Signup deadline is Feb. 1 in order to receive a T-shirt for bravery.