Leprechaun Leap Declared a Success Despite “Icy” Problem

Two weeks before the 2^nd Annual Leprechaun Leap was to be held at Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck it was learned that massive formations of ice, some sections being 9” thick, had frozen into place on the beach and waterfront, essentially making the “leap” area inaccessible.  The entire event was threatened with cancelation if a solution couldn’t be reached and that’s not anything South East likes to do!

So organizers (mainly Mark Ballantyne and Jack Reisman) concocted an alternative plan that would call for participants to “slip, slide, and splash” rather than “leaping” into the chilly Long Island Sound.

With only two weeks to develop the alternative plan (and always keeping an eye on the pending weather forecasts), the Village of Mamaroneck Fire Department graciously volunteered its services to provide a pumper truck to fill inflatable pools and a ladder truck to water down the huge slippery tarp area.

Over 67 participants signed up for the event and, from all accounts, everyone had a totally great time.  In fact, most of the younger participants, especially those representing Mamaroneck High School, felt this was a great “alternative” and we should stick with it next year.  Who knows? 

South East wants to thank all the participants and volunteers who made this event such a success.  The event raised over $15,000 which will go directly to providing programs and services to our participants and their families.

A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Leprechaun Leap

If leaping into cold water this time of year isn’t freakish enough, we’ve had an unexpected development.  Because of the prolonged frigid temperatures this winter the harbor area where we do the leap is totally frozen over and inaccessible.  So – what to do?

Thanks to great minds (and the Village of Mamaroneck Fire Dept) we have set up an alternative.  Instead of “leaping” we will be “slipping, sliding and splashing.”  Trust me, you’ll love it!  Just come to the event around 11:00 AM.  After you register (don’t forget your signed waiver if you are under age 18) enjoy the activities until we get wet. 

So bring your towel and some footwear and enjoy our alternative plan.  It may be a little different, but it accomplishes the same outcome.  And, of course, the most important outcome is raising some money to provide needed programs and services to many deserving people.

Thanks and I’ll see you on March 1.

Jerry Peters

Leprechaun Leap Raises $15,000 for South East

On March 2^nd over 35 “leapers” of all ages braved the chilly water of the Long Island Sound and raised $15,000 for South East in its 1^st Annual Leprechaun Leap. 

“ What better way to usher in the St. Patrick’ Day Season and help a very important cause,” said Ron Belmont, Supervisor for the Town of Harrison.  “The water was freezing, but it left a warm feeling in my heart.”  

Over 12 members of the Mamaroneck High School National Honor Society helped coordinate the event by volunteering and were recognized as  the “Team Raising Most Money”. 

 Ryan Ballantyne, the 6 year old son of Mark and Michelle Ballantyne of Mamaroneck, raised $1,000 and was recognized as the “Youngest Leaper”.  

Barbara Stern, parent to 2 South East participants, was awarded “Best Individual Costume” and “leapers” from Fairfield University were awarded the “Best Team Costumes”.

“All in all it was a wonderful day, said Jerry Peters.  “It will help us defray some pending funding cuts and give us something to think about until next March”.