(Waterville, OH) While frigid wind chills are sending many New Year's Eve celebrations indoors across Northwest Ohio, one will remain outdoors-- because it's all about the cold.
The Polar Bear Plunge will go on as scheduled mid-afternoon on New Year's Day in Waterville. Hundreds of people will jump into the icy waters of the Maumee River at Memorial Park, no matter the air temperature.
The tradition started in 1929 by the late Herb Mericle and the Centurions Motorcycle Club.
Local businesses will be on hand to provide hot cocoa, coffee and donuts. The Waterville Historical Society will provide warming stations and sell "I survived" T-shirts, which may take on renewed importance considering the cold.