A crowd estimated to be as many as 5000 people descended on Alki Beach on New Year's morning to take part in the annual Polar Bear Plunge. The air temperature of 39 degress was actually colder than the 46 degree water as the participants arrived in robes, costumes and carry towels. Some brought food, and even one fire pit was in action. 

Organizer Mark Ufkes said," Welcome to 2025. Happy new year. This is the year for every one of us to reach our potential. We have to let go of 2024 and move into 2025 with faith in the future. And anyone that has ever suggested that this great country isn't a great country, they don't know what they're talking about. This is a spectacular country and it's a gift to be part of it. For anyone that's here and anyone that thinks it's negative here, I'm sorry. Let me talk to them, because I'll point out how big of a gift it is to them in their individual lives. I'm sorry for ranting. Have a great year. Be yourselves. Go for it. Whatever it is you want in life, you've got to go for it and do it. The world's waiting for you. Happy New Year."

The countdown proceeded and the craziness began. A good time was apparently had by all.