Ready, set … jump into new year

Ready, set, jump … into 2024.

And Boy Scout Troop 111 has just the way as it hosts its annual Polar Bear Plunge, now in its tenth year.

The annual event — held Jan. 1 as a cooperative event by Boy Scout Troop 111 and the city of Sandpoint’s Parks & Recreation Department attracts dozens — or more — area residents.

The event will begin at 11 a.m. at the Sandpoint City Beach boat launch. All are welcome.

Along with other stalwart souls, there will be heated changing tents and more to help plungers warm up after their jump into the lake.

The event is free and open to the public. Food donations are being accepted for the Bonner Community Food Bank.

The city has processed a special event permit for the plunge, Sandpoint City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton said.

The scouts’ adoption of the Polar Bear Plunge began in 2015 after the troop heard stories about how Voelz would water ski on New Year’s Day in California. Since it’s too cold to water ski in North Idaho on Jan. 1, the scouts decide to adopt the traditional jump in the lake.

More than 15 scouts took part that first year, with about the same number taking part in 2016. For the troop, it's all about the tradition, doing something fun together and challenging themselves.

The troop takes care in setting up the event, arriving several hours earlier to cut a hole in the ice — although this year, that may not be an issue — and set up safety equipment. Scouts trained in first aid — and the appropriate equipment — are on hand and ready to assist any plunger who runs into trouble, Voelz said.