Quacky Takes the Plunge For Charity by JANICE BURTON
The Cape Fear River is known for many things like its wild beauty and the size of its catfi sh. But on Saturday, May 7 it will be known for its ducks as a fl otilla of ducks fl oat down the river in the highly anticipated Duck Derby.
The ducks, of the yellow, plastic bathtub variety, each represent a donation to a local Fayetteville charity. Organizers of the Duck Derby have been out over the past several months selling these ducks to people in the community, with an eye on race day. Since February, more than 9,492 ducks have been sold
according to Katie Crenshaw, one of the organizers of the event. “My dream is 15,000,” said Crenshaw. “I know that sounds unbelievable, but they say the last two weeks are your biggest sales. So people still have time to adopt a duck and participate in the derby.”
Ducks will be sold all the way up to race date, so if you haven’t bought your duck yet, it’s still not too late. You can adopt a duck for $5, with all proceeds going to Fayetteville’s own fl ock, which is comprised of local non-profi ts that will receive a portion of the proceeds. Each non-profi t participating is listed on the Duck Derby website, as well as corporate teams that will raise money for their favorite non-profi t. “Every non-profi t will get $1 for each of their non-profi t sales, plus the corporate teams pick a non-profi t, and they will get a $1 for every non-profi t. The rest goes to Fayetteville Urban Ministries. We will also donate $500 to the highest team’s non-profi t,” said Crenshaw. Saturday’s event is designed to bring the community together for a day full of fun and celebration aimed at “building a better community.” Events kick-off at Campbellton Landing at 1 p.m. on Saturday. The event has something to offer the entire family. For the young ones in your own fl ock, The Kid’s Zone is sure to keep children entertained. The zone features Magic by David, Bounce Houses, Rattler Jake, a train, arts and crafts and visits by
many local mascots. There will also be wagon rides on the river. “We have great activities for the children,” said Crenshaw. “Our
opening ceremony will feature all of the non-profi ts and they will cut the ribbon together.” For those who love music, don’t worry you’re covered, too. Live music will be ongoing throughout the day, featuring performances by Suckerpunch, Refl ections II Band, Summerfi eld, Taylor Bridges, the Kidsville! Kids and the Falcon Children’s Home Choir.
If you would like to take a closer look at the Cape Fear River, boat rides by Cape Fear River Boat Rides will also be available.
Of course, it wouldn’t be much of a festival if there wasn’t food, so rest assured a number of food vendors will be on hand. And, if you get thirsty, a number of wineries and the Budweiser Girls will be around to offer you something to drink.
The highlight of the event will be the release of the ducks into the Cape Fear River around mid-afternoon.
“The fi rst honorary duck in the water will be dressed like a soldier to honor all of their sacrifi ces,” said Crenshaw. Once released, the ducks will fl oat to the fi nish line. The top fi ve ducks will bring home prizes to their adopted family. The grand prize is a 2011 Toyota Camry provided by Rick Hendrick Toyota. Second prize is a Las Vegas Getaway; third prize is a Myrtle Beach escape; fourth prize is a Cape Fear River Cruise; and fi fth prize is a pair of Community Concerts season tickets. Admission to the event is free For more information about how you can participate in the Duck Derby, visit the website at www. fayettevilleduckderby.com
JANICE BURTON , Associate
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