LAKEPORT, Calif. – The public is invited to “take the Plunge” into the icy waters of Clear Lake on Jan. 1, 2011, as part of the second annual New Year's Day “Lake Plunge” benefiting wounded US and Israeli troops.

The plunge will take place at Library Park in Lakeport.

Children and adults are invited. Participants are encouraged to wear warm clothing over a bathing suit and to bring a towel.

A special “pre-plunge” warm-up fitness class with certified personal trainer Cindy Hutchison will take place at 11 a.m., followed by the plunge at 12 p.m.

Participants must submerge all the way, for it to be official.

The event is free, donations are gladly accepted to benefit troops.

“We are hoping for an even bigger and better event this year, attracting more people from outside Lake County, hoping to spend money on local businesses to help our economy as well.,” said organizer Rob Peterson.

“This will be a ton of fun and a great cause for the brave men and women of the armed forces, one being Israel, America\'s friend and ally. I anticipate this event growing every year,” he said.