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Plunge or Hangover: Different strokes …

by Judd Wilson Staff Writer
| December 28, 2018 12:00 AM

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Participants rush back to Sanders Beach during last year’s Polar Bear Plunge. (LOREN BENOIT/Press File)

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LOREN BENOIT/Press file Stacy Benoscek, decked out in polar bear attire, rushes back to the beach during the annual Polar Bear Plunge at Sanders Beach in January 2017.

COEUR d’ALENE — It’s almost the first of the year. And again it starts with a crazy resolution: to freeze.

Locals can joyously ring in the new year with ice-cold water, freezing air, or both.

The Polar Bear Plunge takes place at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 1 on the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene’s Sanders Beach. Don’t be late ­— the plunge waits for no one, and begins at noon exactly.

Organizers highly recommend bringing funky hats, wigs, and beads.

Other recommended items for the event include: two towels, warm water bottles for spraying sand off after the plunge, hand warmers, a good hat to cover your ears, tennis or water shoes, a loose-fitting change of clothes and shoes, a camera, a bag to carry your wet gear, and a blanket, robe, or jacket.

For more information on the Polar Bear Plunge, go to: http://bit.ly/2SlH2Ut

Earlier in the day, runners, walkers, and strollers will brave freezing temperatures to raise funds for local residents with disabilities. Tesh’s 42nd annual Hangover Handicap Fun Run starts at 9:30 a.m. by Michael D’s Eatery, located at 203 E. Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive in Coeur d’Alene. Registration is $25 per person. Those who would rather stay in bed but still want to support the cause can make an “in spirit” registration donation.

The route follows the Centennial Trail along East Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive, then doubles back to the starting line in downtown Coeur d’Alene.

To register for the Hangover Handicap Fun Run, go to: www.teshinc.com