Applebee's was abuzz with the sounds of jailbirds chatting on cell phones trying to make bail Thursday afternoon.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association lockup is where business leaders of Dunkirk, Fredonia and other surrounding areas, go behind bars for children and adults with muscle diseases.
According to Theresa Ford this year the event recruited over 100 people to be locked up and raise money for the MDA.
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OBSERVER Photo by Nicole Gugino
Two jailbirds trying to make “bail” to be released from the MDA Lockup fundraiser Thursday at Applebee’s in Dunkirk.
When the jailbirds arrived at the restaurant they had a mugshot taken and were escorted to "cell blocks," or tables, where they were provided with the materials to take "bail money," or donations, until they were released.
The jailbirds competed against each other in challenges where everyone had 15 minutes to collect the most donations and winners were awarded with a bar tab.
Jenna Loughlin, the editor of the Westfield Republican said that she had raised about $400 and that the internet was a key tool in her fundraising.
The tally of bail donations for this year wasn't yet in but will soon be announced.
Donations to MDA provide help and hope by providing access to expert specialized medical care, furthering research into treatments and cures for muscle diseases, helping to obtain equipment and support to cope with challenges, as well as allowing children with muscular dystrophy to attend summer camp.
MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research since 1950. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. More information about MDA go to www.mda.org.
