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COVIDly canceled in 2021, Summerland's Polar Bear Dip is officially back on for Jan I, 2022.
That was the news today from organizing body the Kinsmen Club of Summerland, which also warned potential participants that the current forecast calls for a colder day this Jan. 1st than that of recent years.
Weather and temps aside, the announcement undoubtedly comes as welcome relief to those watching the new Omicron COVID variant take its toll on public functions.
Still, the Kinsmen Club has made some very specific stipulations.
"We ask that everyone attending adheres to the latest provincial COVID guidelines," said the release, "and that we spread out and utilize more of the available beach area than usual.
"Warming fires, hot dogs, hot chocolate and event shirts are in the works, however individual and group costume prizes have been removed from this year’s event."
It will be the 36th iteration of the local Polar Bear Dip, and it's scheduled for a 12 pm start -- which means entrants should arrive well before noon at the traditional Sunoka Beach setting.
As usual, divers from Penticton Search and Rescue will be on hand to monitor the situation.
The Kinsmen Club of Summerland suggests that anyone unable to attend make a donation to the Club so they may help "serve the community's greater need." To do so, go to the website here and look for the Donate button.
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