Hosted yearly by Lake Martin Young Professionals to raise funding for improvements around Lake Martin, the 8th annual Polar Plunge at Kowaliga Restaurant once again drew a sizeable crowd of both participants and onlookers of all ages.

While the event is meant to be fun for everyone in attendance, it’s also an important opportunity to better the area by supporting the Lake Martin Resource Association through the purchase of tickets.

“Every year, we strive to beat our goal. It’s all about supporting Lake Martin through LMRA,” Alexander City Chamber of Commerce vice president Liz Holland said. “Though it is a good time, and everyone is laughing and jumping in the water, it’s all about raising money for a good cause. It helps keep our lake safe and clean.”

In the first two year’s alone, the event raised over $8,000 which LMRA used to fund the purchase and installation of lighted buoys. This year’s Polar Plunge was presented by Lakescape.