Preparing for an icy plunge

Fifty-one swimmers get ready to take Wrangell's 16th annual Polar Plunge on New Year's Day. Normally organized by Clay Hammer, this year's dip was put on by the Garnet Grit Betties, Wrangell's roller derby team. "We really enjoyed putting it on, and had a great time doing it," said Shawna Buness, the team's coach. Local businesses and agencies contributed 41 prizes for the Plunge, including a float coat provided by the Volunteer Fire Department. The Betties also drew the winner of their 50/50 raffle, with Ron Sowle taking home $1,257. The other half of the prize money went to the derby team's travel fund.