Brisk weather and warm spirits marked both New Year’s Day and the 25th anniversary of the Grand Valley Lions Polar Dip on Jan. 1.
At 32.7 degrees Fahrenheit, the water temperature was just marginally above the outside air temperatures.
The event saw the return of many past participants and quite a few new ones.
But it seemed many of those lining the shore of the Grand River here were spectators waiting for participants to take the plunge.
The event included at least one Sports team from the Orangeville area and a few who commented their participation was the result of losing a bet.
Randy McClelland of the Grand Valley Lions Club noted this year’s event raised $944 and had 35 dippers.
In addition, the event generated five bags of food.
Both the food and money are being donated to the Grand Valley Food bank, ConCern.
