More than 20 people plunged into the cold waters of Lake Junaluska at noon Saturday to show their support for the Haywood Waterways Association’s Kids in the Creek program.

Some “plungers” came decked out in goofy costumes, snorkeling gear, bathing suits or just full clothing to show their bravery. While some participants swam around in the lake for a few moments, most people jumped out as quickly as they jumped in.

The inaugural Polar Plunge fundraiser was the brainchild of Bill Eaker, the HWA board of directors fundraising chairman and environmental programs director for Land of Sky Regional Council.

Eaker got the idea from several other successful plunging events across the country and thought it would work well here to raise money for Kids in the Creek.

“Kids absolutely love the ...