Jan 7, 2010;

In the first meeting of the new year the OWC Board of Directors picked from all the submissions for the Polar Bear Dip Funding requests two recipients for funding. and the groups are:

TeleCare Orillia

Orillia Ladies Youth Slow Pitch League

Nov 23, 2009:

When polar bear dippers take the plunge, it’s good for Orillia. That was the message from 2010 Winter Carnival President Chad Cooke.

Each year dippers brace themselves and brave the frigid waters of Lake Couchiching raising money for the carnival through pledges. The pledge money is then distributed to worthy community causes. “It really gives us a great opportunity to profile local groups who’s work makes Orillia a better place to live,” said Cooke.

Last year The Salvation Army, and O.S.P.C.A. each received $2,500 in support of their programs and projects.

“The Polar Bear Dip is our signature event. There seems to be a real fascination, and not just for the folks take to the icy waters of Lake Couchiching in the dead of winter. The public really seems to enjoy watching the startled and shocked expressions on the dippers’ faces”, he said. “It’s a huge draw.”