For the past three years, there have been reports of polar bears swimming at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, Beach and Marina in Oyster Bay on one chilly day in March. It's scheduled to happen, again, on Sunday, March 9, when the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, Inc. (ucpn) hosts its 4th Annual Polar Bear "Break the Ice Swim" benefit fundraiser. The festivities will kick off at 12:30 p.m. with the polar bears taking the plunge at 1:30 p.m.

"The polar bear swim is a unique and most worthwhile charity event, and I'm 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. I invite everyone to participate and have fun. Come 'chill-out' and help raise funds for a cause that will warm your heart."

The day will include a DJ, free hot chocolate, coffee, tea, hot dogs, soup, raffles and other surprises. An indoor assembly area will also be available for the event, which will be held rain, snow or shine. The day's proceedings will 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."

Supervisor Venditto said that, as in past years, the organizers anticipate many hardy individuals from the community taking the plunge to raise funds for ucpn. Furthermore, he stressed that corporate sponsorship is welcome.

"I hope many Town of Oyster Bay residents will come out to Theodore Roosevelt Park to show their support," Supervisor Venditto said. "You will have fun and help an important cause at the same time. And speaking of time, remember to adjust your clocks for daylight savings time on this day!"

For information about participation as a swimmer or a sponsor, please contact Charles Evdos, Development Director, ucpn at 378-2000 ext. 648. You can also visit www.ucpn.org for more information and registration forms.