Nearly 60 people rang in the new year in a chilly way today.. by plunging into a nearly frozen Lake Wissota.

For the ninth straight year the Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization held their annual Polar Plunge at The View in Chippewa Falls.

Brave souls of all ages raised more than ten thousand dollars for a chance to take a dip in the lake.
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For Big Brothers, Big Sisters it was a successful day.. and for the plungers.. it was an experience all its own.

"It's fun in both ways. The jump was awesome, what a thrill. This is for a good cause, but I'm glad I did it this year - first time jumper," said Kris Mateski of Chippewa Falls.

"All the money stays right here and just helps us make more matches, bring more mentors, more matches into the lives of children," said Craig Monson of Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

Before the plunge, the temperature of the water read a balmy 31 degrees.. which is near freezing.

After jumping in.. most people went straight to the warming tent.