Polar bears swam at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park Beach on Sunday, March 9, when the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Inc. (ucpn) hosted its 4th Annual Polar Bear "Break the Ice Swim" fundraiser. It's a great event and takes advantage of the Atlantic Steamer water rescue team to be sure it is a safe event.

"The polar bear swim is a unique and most worthwhile charity event, and I was pleased to lend the support of the Town to help ensure its success," said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto, who has served as an honorary chairman for the event since it started in Oyster Bay. "The program features brave souls taking the plunge into Oyster Bay Harbor to raise money for ucpn and its many outstanding programs and services." He said it's a cause that warms your heart."

Members of the Coney Island Polar Bear Club once again journeyed to Oyster Bay to take part in the event. They stayed in the water long after most people had run back onto the beach into the waiting warmth of dry towels.

How does the water feel? "It feels great," said Diane Paul. "It's great for the body. Since I started swimming with the Polar Bear Club my arthritis is not bothering me. I couldn't snap my fingers before. There is something different about cold water - as opposed to cold weather," she said. "I'm swimming today for ucpn. I did volunteer work for them. It's a great organization."

Her son Robbie was there, too. "He's home-taught," she said. That's a good reason for him to be out and about at the Polar Bear Swim. She said, "He gets out more than most school children. Last year, in November, he tried a Polar Bear Swim. He loves to swim," she said.

"I stayed in as long as I could, but thought 'don't push it too far," said Robbie. "I stayed in for about two minutes." He decided it wasn't for him. He leaves the sport to his parents, Diane and Rob Paul of North Babylon.

The day included a DJ, free hot chocolate, coffee, tea, hot dogs, soup, and raffles. The Atlantic Steamer Fire Company members were busy cooking hot dogs and serving the Sabrettes! Ten members went into the water including the chief, who did it on a dare. He also got his daughter Bridget and her boyfriend to go into the swim. They also raised about $2,000 for the cause. The Oyster Bay Fire Company #1 also took part in the event, they sent their ambulance to be on standby. Next year the Atlantic Steamer Fire Company plans to challenge surrounding fire companies to get in the swim!

The day's proceedings benefit the more than 1,800 children and adults with disabilities who participate in programs and receive services through ucpn.

"An independent, not-for-profit health agency, ucpn strives to improve the quality of life for people with cerebral palsy and others with severe disabilities and multiple service needs," explained Supervisor Venditto. "The organization also seeks to prevent cerebral palsy and minimize its effects. It truly provides a terrific service to individuals challenged by disabilities and their families."

As the event ended - like a bride tossing a bouquet at the guests, the emcee turned his back to the audience and tossed station Z-100 T-shirts out to the crowd. Elfia Presta and Jason Shoemaker caught the high-flying prizes. The winners of the big white polar bear raffle prize were Jen and Tom Holberg. They weren't there to take home their prize, but a lot of happy winners took home their gifts.