<br> 2nd Annual AANR Rooster Rock Polar Dip Breaks Record<br>Submitted by: Shirley Gauthier-AANR-NW GAT Chair<br>It was not the 47.5-degree weather at Rooster Rock State Park nude beach January 29 that broke the record it was the twenty-two nudists and the Restful Haven Mascot that participated. Last year 5 nudists showed up and all five did the Polar Dip. This year twenty-two nudists showed up and thirteen braved the cold water and participated. All five participants of last years dip participated January 29 at the 2nd annual dip. Those that showed up and did not wish to brave the water were quickly handed cameras. <br>The group met at the East parking area at 9 am and hiked about 2 miles (I am guessing) to an area safe for dipping. After taking a group before photo we, ran in the water and regrouped on the bank for additional pictures. Not to be outdone a small group took a second plunge and swim. Taking the challenge the women decided to take a second dip! Yes I did say women. Two women participated this year breaking last year's record of one.<br>We met 4-5 people on the trail hike back and I am sure they were wondering what a large group was doing so far from the parking area on a Saturday in January. Two naked men carrying an AANR flag leading 19 laughing and fun loving Polar Dippers must be a memory one won't forget of Rooster Rock.<br>Thanks to Craig George of Volunteers in the Gorge who suggested Cascade Deli in the Columbia Gorge Outlet Mall for a warm place to gather for lunch afterwards. Meeting as a group for lunch was the dessert on a great day. Cascade Deli, a short drive from Rooster Rock State Park (exit #17), has a large open area room with plenty of tables, great service and good food. You might want to stop at the Deli for a packed lunch on future visits to Rooster Rock.<br>A heads up! Next year we will be doing a &quot;Rooster Rock Dip for Dollars.&quot; Recently while attending a SLUGS (Sun Lovers Under Gray Sky) Travel Club retreat at Lake Bronson it came to my attention by Kathy that some Dippers need to be motivated. Immediately my mind went into overdrive. I realized that people who live a distance away, think dipping in cold water is not their cup of tea or those that have other plans would want to support this Rooster Rock event by pledging dollars to those &quot;brave&quot; enough to participate. Stay tuned on AANR-NW enews for details. All &quot;Dip for Dollars&quot; monies collected will support AANR-NW Government Affairs Team (GAT) events at Rooster Rock.<br>See you all at Rooster Rock for/05/21 for the &quot;Down by the Riverside&quot; event where we will once again be in partnership with Volunteers in the Gorge and SOLV. Save August 6 on your calendars for the 3rd annual &quot;Rooster Rock Beach Party&quot; more commonly known as a work party. Stayed tuned to AANR-NW enews for updates.<br><br> </td>