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Feb. 25, 2010
Plans have been finalized by the Maryland State Police and Natural Resources Police for Saturday’s 12th annual Deep Creek Dunk and Friday night’s DunkFest celebration.
The annual charity fundraiser for Special Olympics Maryland is set for Saturday, Feb. 27, and as many as 1,000 dunkers are expected to take part in the event. Participants come from all across the region, making Deep Creek Lake a popular weekend destination for several hundred people from Baltimore and the surrounding areas during the weekend’s festivities.
Last year’s 11th annual MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk raised $162,000 with the help of just under 800 dunkers, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Maryland and its year-round sports training and competition programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities. A significant portion of the funds raised support the 47 Garrett County athletes who train and compete throughout the year.
According to a spokesperson, the Dunk underwrites the entire annual budget for SOMD Garrett County, which includes transportation, uniforms, facilities fees, equipment, and meals.
“We are proud to partner with so many local businesses and with the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce to put on the Deep Creek Dunk, and have tried to market and position the event as just one small part of a weekend destination for those traveling from out of town,” said Tom Schniedwind, executive vice president of sports marketing for Special Olympics Maryland. “Our hope is that getting involved with the Dunk isn’t just a feel-good proposition for local businesses – instead, we hope that it’s actually good for business for our partners here locally.”
The dunk activities begin on Friday night at the Honi Honi “DunkFest,” and features the Toast Your Buns Bonfire from 6 to 10 p.m.; live music beginning at 8 p.m.; an outdoor pizza party and carnival games for the whole family; and fun drink specials both inside and out. Those who are dunking on Saturday may pre-register anytime between 6 and 9 p.m. Friday evening, and skip the lines altogether on Saturday.
In order to join the event and take a dip into Deep Creek Lake, participants must raise a minimum of $50 in pledges. For that contribution they will receive a complimentary meal from Uno Chicago Bar & Grill, a commemorative event sweatshirt, and a group color photo.
Special prizes will also be awarded for the top three fundraisers, the top law enforcement fundraiser, the best costume, and the top fundraising team. Heated changing tents are available on the lawn for both men and women to change in before and after.
Day-of registration begins at noon on Saturday, and the Dunk will take place at 2 p.m. There is no fee for spectators, and dunkers of all ages are welcome – though participants under the age of 18 will need signed parental consent. To register, persons may visit the web site at www.dunk-md.com or call 800-541-7544, ext. 503 (Md. only), or 410-789-6677, ext. 503, and register through the 24-hour Dunk hotline.
“The MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk is not just an event – it’s an experience,” said Schniedwind. “There is just an amazing energy throughout the crowd before, during, and after the Dunk as people embrace the spirit of fun and craziness that defines the event. And the best part is that all that positive energy ultimately translates into a better tomorrow for Special Olympics Maryland athletes in all of our communities.”
Dunk-day activities include music by DJ Jonny Rock, food, a wacky costume contest, and a live remote by WKHJ 104.5. Following the main event, the Black Bear Tavern is hosting the official Post-Dunk Party from 6 p.m. to close, complete with live music. A suggested $5 donation to Special Olympics Maryland gets all the official Deep Creek Dunk oval sticker and the chance to win prizes all evening.
The MSP/NRP Deep Creek Dunk, presented by Uno Chicago Bar & Grill and the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, is coordinated jointly by the Maryland State Police, Natural Resources Police, Maryland Park Service and several other local law enforcement agencies.
The MSP/NRP Dunk is just the beginning of a full weekend of activities for Special Olympics Maryland, with the annual SOMD Winter Games beginning the following evening, Sunday, Feb. 28.
Winter Games feature competition in alpine skiing, modified alpine, cross-country skiing, and the newest addition, snowshoeing. Approximately 350 athletes from both Maryland and Delaware will travel to Garrett County for this
state-level event.
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