Seaplace Condominiums hosts its annual polar plunge for new year

On Jan. 1, about 60 to 70 residents of Seaplace Condominiums "braved" the "frigid" waters of the Gulf of Mexico for the annual Polar Plunge.

Actually, with temperatures in the 70s, there wasn't much to brave, but the 20-year tradition carried on.

"It has been cold in some years," said June Hessel, events chair at Seaplace. "But it's really a tongue-in-cheek event."

A big reason for the event is residents can gather with leftover snacks and unopened bottles of champagne for that little extra celebration.