New Heights

Surfers are flocking to Chicago to surf in Lake Michigan. Blizzard-like conditions, 19-foot waves, a negative 7 wind chill and a water temperature of 33 degrees aren't detering daredvils like Bryan McDonald, who says, "Sunday’s snow storm brought wind, the wind stirs up the lake, and we have waves. Winter gives you the best waves. You paddle out, wait for the right wave and try new moves — it keeps you young. By the time you come out of the water you’ve got ice all over your upper body, your back, your hood, your chest. Just big chunks of ice, you can’t even unzip your suit. You just jump in your car and thaw out. I’ve surfed colder, at least 20 below with the wind chill. When your paddling out your face gets real cold . . .and after about 90 minutes your feet start going numb.”