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Polar Plungers Say They Are 'Freezin' For A Reason'

(CBS) -- A New Year's Day tradition, for some in Chicago, is a dip in Lake Michigan.  Thursday morning, dozens took the polar plunge.

WBBM's Mike Krauser reports.

Whether it's the lingering effects of last night's celebrations or a baptism of sorts to start off the new year – or a fundraiser – dozens gathered at North Avenue Beach as the new day dawned.

That Time Of Year: Polar Plunge

Some were raising money for a greyhound rescue organization. Organizers call the event "Freezin' for a Reason."

Luke Wascovich came to Chicago from Little Rock, Ark. to participate.

"I always wanted to do a plunge," he says, adding doing it for a cause was even better. "Two birds with one stone."

The air temperature was around 20 degrees – about 16 degrees colder than the water.

 

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