www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, December 31, 2015 | 10 It's time to take the plunge at Polar Bear Dip Jan. 1 by Julia Le Oakville Beaver Staff Thrill-seekers and adrenaline-junkies alike will be plunging into the chilly waters of Lake Ontario tomorrow (Jan. 1, 2016) to ring in the New Year. More than 700 dippers are expected to gather at Coronation Park on Lakeshore Road to take part in the Courage Polar Bear Dip, now in its 31st year. The annual event has raised more than $1.33 million for various World Vision global water projects since it developed a partnership with the relief organization in 1995. This year, funds will support a clean water project in Rwanda. Todd and Trent Courage, who started the tradition together, told the Oakville Beaver how rewarding it has been to watch the event grow, from its early days as a challenge for a group of friends, to an established community event that draws people from across the Greater Toronto Area and beyond. "We could not do this by ourselves," they said, noting how many dedicated community members volunteer their time and effort, each and every year, to make the dip a success. "So many people are behind the whole event and the purpose that it stands behind." The festivities begin at 12:30 p.m. and features live music from Whaling and a costume contest. The dip will take place at 2 p.m. sharp. Todd Courage, left, and Trent Courage, co-founders of the Courage Polar Bear Dip, will be joined by thrill-seekers, "adrenalin-junkies" and others, who will plunge into the chilly waters of Lake Ontario tomorrow (Jan. 1, 2016) in the World Vision fundraiser that supports a water project in Rwanda. | photo by Justin Greaves Oakville Beaver (Follow on Twitter @halton_photog or facebook.com/HaltonPhotog) Having taken part in 30 dips apiece, the brothers said it's a "cold, but refreshing" way to begin the New Year. Every year feels different, especially with the varying temperatures Oakville has had during winter over the years, said Todd. While temperatures will be milder than the last two years (-6 C in 2015 and -18 C in 2014), organizers say dippers should be prepared for water temperature in the low single digits and therefore, still chilly. Dippers can still register for $25 and collect pledges. Even if you have no interest in jumping in the water, it's a great spectator sport, noted Trent, who will be leaping into the waters with his three boys aged nine, 12 and 14. Todd will be jumping in with his daughters aged 11 and 20 and 18-year-old son. Jenna, Todd's oldest daughter, who grew up as spectator of the dip and then became a participant, said she's excited to see the next generation of dippers taking the plunge. "Nothing brings a family together like jumping in Lake Ontario in January to help kids and their families around the world," she said. With hundreds expected to attend the dip as participants and spectators, a shuttle bus will pick up passengers from South Oakville Centre, 1515 Rebecca St., beginning at 12:15 p.m. and will make a continuous loop. For more information, visit www. polarbeardip.ca. Bhandari Family Dentistry Returns to Oakville Bring in your family for a check-up at our new state-of-the-art clinic Dr. Bhandari is a leading advocate of oral health with 31 years of experience. With unmatched training and impeccable skill, Dr. Bhandari and his team have been noted in the community and media for his professional and comprehensive approach to dentistry. Dr. Bhandari has proudly worked with a number of celebrities throughout his career, helping them maintain their red carpet worthy smiles! Customer care is our core concern. Whether you're looking for general maintenance, regular check-up treatments or cosmetic dentistry, we can help. Give Dr. Bhandari a call to book your appointment or consultation. Porcelain Veneers Crowns and Bridges Teeth Whitening Restorations Composite Resin Dental Implants Laser Dentistry New Patients & Dental Emergencies Welcome CHRISTMAS SPECIALS! Palermo Professional Centre 2525 Old Bronte Rd., Suite 470, Oakville (at Dundas Street) www.bhandaridental.com DR. Vineet BhanDaRi BSc DIH DDS 905.825.5110 Monday to Friday 7:30 - 5:00. Evening and Saturday appointments available.