After more than 10 years, the local Polar Bear Dip is still a strong draw for the area's more adventurous residents.
On New Year's Day, the 11th edition of the annual event will take place at Ness Lake Bible Camp.
Last year, for its 10th anniversary, the chilly dive brought out about 60 participants and raised about $3,000.
"It's a wonderful event. Close to a couple hundred people came out to watch last year," said Will Born, the camp's interim executive director who has taken on the running of the polar bear dip this year.
Participants are encouraged to raise pledges, with tax receipts available for donations more than $10. The minimum donation for participation is $20, which can be paid as an entry fee, or is waived for anyone who brings in more than the minimum amount.
Although the weather on Jan. 1, 2012 could be anyone's guess, one thing is certain - the water will be cold.
"We actually have to cut a hole in the ice," explained Born, adding the approximately 15-foot by 20-foot space is roughed out the morning of the dip.
Proceeds from the event go towards financial awards for summer camp volunteers. The top nine volunteers will have the money split amongst them for their donation of time as leaders throughout the summer.
Aside from getting a cold shock to the system to start the new year, there are also prizes for the top fundraisers and best costumes. This includes a $200 gift certificate from Northern Hardware and other contributions from Boston Pizza, McDonald's, Ric's Grill and more.
Free Polar Bear Dip T-shirts are also available for the first 50 participants.
Check-in begins at 2 p.m. in the Welcome Centre (the log building in the parking lot) with the plunge itself kicking off at 2:30 and lasting about 10 minutes. Hot chocolate and cinnamon buns will be available for jumpers and spectators.
"The whole thing only takes about an hour. We don't want to keep people too much longer, because it's New Year's Day," Born said.
Founded in 1953, the Ness Lake Bible Camp is owned and operated by CSSM Ministries, with more than 40,000 children participating in their camping programs since they opened. This summer, the camp hosted more than 1,600 campers between the ages of six and 17.
Pledge forms and general information are available on the Ness Lake Bible Camp website, www.nlbc.bc.ca. Registration for the Polar Bear Dip is also available online.
