Missoula citizens with brave and warm hearts are joining Missoula’s Law Enforcement on February 3, 2007 @ 12 Noon at the Montana Army/National Guard Armory (2501 S Reserve), Missoula, Montana, for the 8th Annual Capital Family Mortgage Super Grizzly Dip to raise money for Special Olympics Montana athletes. Hardy Montanans with courage, stout souls, and a “little craziness” are going to take the plunge at the National Guard Armory where a very large and very frozen water purification unit will be standing by to carry on the tradition of the International Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR).
The LETR is the largest grassroots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympians and, in 2006, Montana’s LETR program received an award at the 2006 International Torch Run Conference in Buffalo, New York for the 2nd Highest per Capita Fundraising Program in the world. LETR’s mission is to raise funds and increase public awareness for Special Olympics by involving local law enforcement personnel within their respective communities. The LETR has currently expanded into all 50 states and 31 countries. In Montana, torch runs, tip-a-cops, cops & lobsters, motorcycle poker runs, truck convoys, building and billboard sits, and polar plunges raise contributions for this worthy cause.
So how does one participate in the Super Grizzly Dip? You can’t just show up to plunge; Grizzly Dippers must raise at least $100 in pledges/donations for Special Olympics Montana to earn the privilege of showing their courage and mental fortitude. Applications can be obtained at Capital Family Mortgage, Cherry Creek Radio (I.e. formerly Fisher Broadcasting), the Missoula Family YMCA, KPAX TV and local law enforcement agencies. Plungers may register at Cherry Creek Radio during the on-air broadcast (Feb. 2nd from 6:30-10:00 a.m.) or at the National Guard Armory on the day of the event (Feb. 3rd from 10:30-11:45 a.m.). Just remember, it’s not difficult to raise money from people when it’s you "swimming in the winter.” Extraordinary Grizzly fundraisers are eligible to win additional incentives such as an official LETR baseball cap, embroidered duffle bag, or even an iPod. The law enforcement agency, individual who raises the most money, individual who recruits the most plungers, business which raises the most money, new plunger who raises the most money, and local high school which raises the most money will also receive awards.
Super Grizzly Dip organizers are hosting a Preregistration Party from 6:30-10 a.m. on Friday, February 2nd at the Cherry Creek Radio Complex (1600 N. Ave. W.). For those not able to attend the party, late registration is available from 10:30-11:45 a.m. at the National Guard Armory on the day of the event (February 3rd). Following the plunge, “homemade” chili and cornbread will be served at the National Guard Armory (2501 South Reserve) as well, as part of the Awards Ceremony. 10 different door prizes valued at $100 plus dollars will be drawn at the Awards Ceremony for those who plunged. You need to be present to win. There is no charge, but donations will be accepted. These proceeds will also go to Special Olympics Montana athletes. Of course an event bordering on madness needs a lot of support. Hats off to all of Missoula’s law enforcement agencies and emergency personnel for providing numerous Grizzlies, as well as medical and logistics support, safety personnel and coordination. Capital Family Mortgage is the major sponsor of the Grizzly Dip. As additional sponsors, the following Missoula businesses are also lending their support: Cherry Creek Radio (Eagle 93, Star FM., Z100, Q106.7), KPAX TV, The Shirt Shop, Missoula Emergency Services, The Missoula Family YMCA, The Montana Army/National Guard, & Cedar Products Unlimited.
Get involved, get wet and join the Law Enforcement Torch Run Team to benefit Special Olympics Montana athletes. Make sure you come and watch our celebrity jumpers take the leap of faith for local Special Olympics Athletes. Wayne Tinkle and certain members of the University of Montana Men’s Basketball Coaching Staff will be making the plunge!
Don't want to get wet, you can still be a part of the Grizzly Dip by donating through this website. It is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to donate - So please donate! Many thanks for your support.