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2- The Oakville Beaver Weekend, Saturday December 30, 2006 www.oakvillebeaver.com Polar Dip on Jan. 1 For the 22nd year, New Year's Day will feature area residents braving icy waters for the Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip. This year, hundreds of people will take the plunge to raise funds to provide fresh water for Senegal. This local tradition, the Annual Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip for World Vision, raises funds to provide clean water in developing countries. What began in 1985 with five dippers jumping into Lake Ontario from a Burlington residence, has grown into Canada's largest charitable Polar Bear Dip. Last year, more than 400 courageous dippers of all ages ran into Lake Ontario. The festival-like atmosphere, with live music, costume contests and celebrity emcees drew more than 5,000 spectators to Coronation Park in Oakville. "The Courage Brothers' Polar Bear Dip has raised over $280,000 in recent years for World Vision's life saving water programs," said Trent Courage. "It's appropriate that we have almost 500 participants diving into ice cold water to raise funds that will provide fresh water to a community of 1,300 people in Senegal," added Todd Courage. "It's going to have a life changing impact on the people living there." The Courage Brothers hope to raise $40,000 with the 2007 event. The proceeds will be used to install a Caprari pump and motor, a solar pump, construct a water tower and ground reservoir in the Kandiaye and Saré Yéroyel communities of Senegal, through World Vision Canada. With the $25 registration fee, participants receive a cotton t-shirt and membership certificate. For every $100 raised, participants will get a ballot for a chance to win a trip for two to Europe. Other prizes include best individual and best group costume. Those participating should wear appropriate clothing ­ see polardip.ca for details ­ and bring extra shoes, warm clothing and a big towel or blanket. Changing facilities are available. Registration closes on New Year's Day, Monday, Jan. 1 at 1:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to come no later than 12:30 p.m. The dip is at 2 p.m. sharp at Coronation Park, on Lakeshore Road between Third and Fourth Line. Family fun PHOTOS BY LIESA KORTMANN / OAKVILLE BEAVER THANKS TIM: At the annual Tim Hortons free family skating event at Glen Abbey Arena, at top, Matthew Dybka tests the waters, takes a break from skating, above left, Matthew Vilas clad in a Leafs jersey gets his sea legs and above right, Tyler Franciscy shares a laugh with his dad, Andy. Happy New Year! Delmanor Glen Abbey is Oakville's premier retirement residence for active adults. We emphasize independence and individuality in a community environment that promotes an active mind and a sound body. In short, we believe in LivingWell and l we'd like you to join us. If you would like to join us at one of these events or to book a tour, just call Margaret Milley 905-469-3232. TM 1459 Nottinghill Gate just south of Upper Middle, west of Dorval 905.469.3232 www.delmanor.com