Elks disguised as mermen take the Polar Plunge
On Feb. 18, people gathered from throughout the region to take part in the 2012 Polar Plunge at Shoal Creek.
Among them were eight members of the Nevada Elks Lodge -- dressed as mermen -- who, through their chilly endeaver raised $1,700 in cool cash to benefit Special Olympics. The weather that day was near the freezing point, and with the water temperature at 33 degrees, some of the Polar Plungers shivered in the cold even before entering the water. Ada Kutina spearheaded the fundraising portion, and took Nevada Elks Lodge Exalted Ruler Blaine Deihl up on his challenge -- he told her if at least $1,500 were raised through the effort, he'd take the plunge himself. Deihl's challenge was answered and he made good on his promise. At right, from left to right are Deihl, Phil Thompson, James Lyen, Chase Thompson, Josh Overton, Steve Brooks, Jason Overton and Jim Overton.
Members of the Nevada High School Livin' Out Loud group also took the plunge.