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At least it started in the afternoon, when things were slightly warmer. On Jan. 1, as most families were holding New Year’s Day celebrations or watching football, more than 60 folks gathered together at Bear Creek Lake. 

When the horn sounded, participants plunged into the lake, just for the bragging rights. Then each one made their way back to the beach, to warm up around the bonfire. It’s an annual tradition at Bear Creek, something residents have been doing as their own type of “New Year’s” tradition.