There are many traditions at the heart of Chewonki, and one widely-held favorite is the beloved (and dreaded) Polar Bear swims.  No matter the season, intrepid students, campers, and sometimes even staff will take the plunge and test out the waters of Montsweag Brook which runs along the west side of Chewonki Neck. Summertime brings out hordes of “early riser” campers, plunging into the blue-green tidal waters, eager to earn a coveted Polar Bear badge. On hot sticky summer days, a refreshing dip in the creek is just the right thing to start of the day feeling invigorated. But the return of the cold weather brings out new challenges for the boldest (and coldest) of our Maine Coast Semester students, braving water as cold as 35 degrees as they wade over snowbanks and out among the ice flows.  Why do we do it? For some, it’s about the bragging rights; for others, it’s about the quiet pride that comes from stepping out of their comfort zone. But for everyone, it’s a moment we celebrate together—wrapped in towels, shivering, and cheering each other on. So the next time you find yourself on Chewonki Neck and the call rings out “Poooollaaaarrr Beeeeaaaaarrrrrrrs!”