On Friday, December 31st at 12 Noon, the Arctic Ice Bears, a team of winter, outdoor athletes will take their second annual plunge into the Hudson River, off the tip of Pier 62 at Chelsea Piers. Sponsored by Chelsea Piers and Hudson River Park Conservancy, the group is making the chilly swim to raise awareness about Parkinson's Disease.

"While there has been much publicity about Parkinson's in recent months, what many people don't realize is how important exercise is for those living with the disease," said Ken Jones, former Mr. Universe and president of the Arctic Ice Bears. "Since Arctic Ice Bears must be in excellent shape, we wanted to set an example, and what better place to do it than at Chelsea Piers, which is full of opportunities to exercise."

A disorder of the central nervous system, Parkinson's Disease affects 1.5 million Americans. Primary symptoms include rigidity, slowness of movement, poor balance and tremor. The cause of Parkinson's is not known and currently no cure exists.

"Helping people understand Parkinson's and how it affects the body is an important component in the fight to find a cure," said Kenneth Aidekman, Chairman of the Parkinson's Unity Walk, an annual event that raises money to fight the disease. "We really appreciate what the Arctic Ice Bears are doing and encourage everyone to come out and cheer them on."

Net Access Corporation will be broadcasting the event live via the internet at www.nac.net/chelseapiers