City manager takes the plunge

Following the 13th annual Long Beach Polar Bears Super Bowl Splash, the Herald caught up with City Manager Jack Schnirman, who was one of thousands who took to the beach at Riverside Boulevard on Feb. 5 to take the icy plunge to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Schnirman, who took the plunge for the first time, talked about his experience, his visit to a few Long Beach eateries after the event, and why the Splash is a significant tradition in the community.

Herald: You previously said that participating in the Splash was on your bucket list of things to do. How was your first-time experience, and why take part in the event?

Schnirman: I wanted to do it because it’s one of those things that make you feel truly alive. It’s a great community tradition here. It’s so incredible to see so many come out to participate and be a part of the festivities for a great cause. It was truly exhilarating.

Herald: So you’re lined up on the beach, standing among thousands, ready to race into the water. What was going through your mind?

Schnirman: You gotta dive right in. I was warned that if you go slow, it feels colder. So I dove in, and it felt incredible.

Herald: No second thoughts the night before?

Schnirman: None. I couldn’t wait to do it. Luckily, I didn’t look like too much of a goofball.

Herald: Did you get any good tips before jumping in?

Schnirman: Assemblyman Harvey Weisenberg gave me some good guidance on how to attack a wave. He said that you have to wait for the right moment when the wave comes so you can dive into and go right through it. He was right.

Herald: How did you spend the rest of your day in Long Beach?

Schnirman: I was having so much fun, and there was so much adrenaline, I took my time [on the beach], gave a hi-five or so, and said hello and goodbye to some people. After, I had a slice at West End Pizza, and had some ribs and wings over at Swingbellys. They’re great.

Herald: And you tuned in to the Super Bowl, I’m sure?

Schnirman: Of course! I thought it was a fantastic game. Both teams played great and it was so incredible to see the [New York]Giants come from behind. It showed the poise of Eli Manning as a quarterback. And I’m a huge Jets fan.

Herald: Aside from jumping in the water for a good cause, are you someone who normally enjoys the beach and the outdoors?

Schnirman: Yes. I run, I like to bike a little bit. And I look forward to seeing everyone as I run around the city, and along the boardwalk.

Herald: You said after being sworn in on Jan. 3 that you look forward to moving to Long Beach and becoming an active member in the community. What’s your approach to fulfilling this goal?

Schnirman: By being present and part of the community at local restaurants, going for a run in the morning, talking to people. During the snowstorm, I went out and looked at the roads, and asked residents how we were doing. It’s not just about 9-5 business hours — it’s being a part of the community.

Herald: What advice would you give to novices who may want to participate in the Splash next year?

Schnirman: Just do it. Jump in. Wait for your wave, and enjoy the moment. It’s festive. Everyone has a sense of humor. This tradition has grown and it shows the tight knit community spirit we have here. It’s inspiring.

Herald: So you plan on taking part in the event again?

Schnirman: I’m happy to officially be a Polar Bear. I look forward to doing it again next year.