Home > News
North Hempstead’s First Winterfest a Huge Success, Despite Heavy Downpour

Immediate Release                                                                                 Contact: Justin Meyers
March 14, 2008                                                                                                 (516) 869-7794

North Hempstead’s First Winterfest a Huge Success, Despite Heavy Downpour

Over 600 people joined North Hempstead to celebrate Winterfest and raised over $200,000 for the Special Olympics Polar Plunge!

Port Washington , NY —North Hempstead Supervisor Jon Kaiman announced today that the Town’s first Winterfest featuring the Special Olympics Polar Plunge was a huge success. The crowd of hundreds of plungers and onlookers were unfazed by the heavy downpours at Bar Beach Saturday March 8, enjoying all the activities, food and refreshments offered at Winterfest. In addition, the Special Olympics reported to have raised over $200,000 at the event, far surpassing the original fundraising goal.

“North Hempstead’s first Winterfest was an event to remember,” said Supervisor Kaiman. “The heavy downpour did not deter residents from showing up, having a great time, and plunging into the cold waters of Bar Beach.”

Winterfest ‘08 featured a variety of booths, activities, raffles, children activities and food and beverages. In addition the event featured a Chili Cook Competition, ice carving and sculptures, a DJ & music, a free breakfast sponsored by Panera Bread and informational displays sponsored by the Police Department.

“It was impressive to see hundreds of residents come out and enjoy all the activities at Winterfest and support the Special Olympics,” said Supervisor Kaiman. “I look forward to taking a plunge into Bar Beach once again at Winterfest ‘09!”

The Special Olympics raised more than $200,000 with the Polar Plunge event, impressive fundraising effort and a figure that was significantly higher than the $80,000 raised in 2007. Plungers were asked to raise a minimum of $100 and students $25. Fundraising was also conducted online at www.specialolympicsny.org, where plungers created their own Personal Plunge Page and told the story of why they plunged and what Special Olympics means to them.

North Hempstead Winterfest ‘08 was also sponsored by the town’s Business and Tourism Development Corporation, Panera Bread, Police Benevolent Association Inc., NYS Fraternal Order of Police, Law Enforcement Torch Run, Radio Disney, New York Lottery, NYSUL, Apple & Eve, and CSEA.

Supervisor Jon Kaiman along with “Santa” Plunge Team immediately following their plunge.

View Archives