New Year's Dip in Severna Park Benefits Bay

It wasn't quite chilly enough for real penguins—and that was a good sign for the Stewart's Landing residents who came out to take a quick dip into the shallow water of Old Man Creek on New Year's Day.

The annual fundraiser to benefit the Chesapeake Bay Foundation is organized by Thurman and Karen Reynolds, residents of the community who started the annual New Year's Day dunk four years ago. 

The event draws adults and children, including Ellie Leikin, 12, who said the frosty dip helped her wake up after a late night on New Year's Eve.

Toni Fiocco-Mizer, 9, said she was very proud of herself and said "it was cold" as she stood in the parking lot at the community marina snuggled in a penguin robe.

Father and son, Larry and Luke Bloom both took the plunge. Larry is a veteran plunger and was glad it wasn't as cold as in previous years.

Dave Care, plunged wearing his Todd Heap jersey along with full Baltimore Ravens pride.

"I'm happy to get some use out of it," Care said, adding that he will wear it again when Heap is inducted into the Ravens Ring of Honor, the highest honor in the Ravens franchise.

Karen Reynolds said she was pleased with the turnout that drew more than 30 residents and estimated the plunge would bring in a few hundred dollars in donations to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Last year the event raised . Karen Reynolds said she was also glad that the weather was mild and there was no ice to chop as in previous years.

The event is heavily monitored by Thurman Reynolds who stands waist deep in the water making sure that the plungers take a quick dip in the shallow water of the boat ramp safely before heading back for their towels and robes.

The event is not sanctioned by the Stewart's Landing community and is an "at your own risk" event.