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The 17th annual North Beach Polar Bear Plunge is set for 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 1. Town officials reported that while there is no charge to jump into the chilly waters of the Chesapeake Bay via the town’s beach, those participants wishing to receive an event T-shirt and personalized certificate will have to pony up $25 in advance. The event’s net proceeds will go to the North Beach Boys and Girls Club.

“There is no fee to plunge but you must sign a waiver,” town officials stated on the North Beach MD Facebook page. Participants 18 and older should sign the waiver while those who are under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the release. The signed document indemnifies the town from any plunge-related liability.

While the pre-registration through PayPal ended Friday, Dec. 28, those wanting to dash into the water New Year’s Day may still register, sign a waiver and pay the entry fee Jan. 1 starting at 11 a.m. at the North Beach Welcome Center, which is located on the boardwalk in front of the town pier. The event T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The New Year’s Day 2012 event drew close to 470 plungers. In addition to the locals—last year three North Beach Town Council members were among the swimmers—visitors from Virginia and Delaware also took the plunge.

Hot cocoa will be served on the boardwalk after the swim.

For more information visit the town web site at www.ci.north-beach.md.us

Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com