Ken Privett believes in giving back to the communities that support his Dunkin’ Donuts stores, and Saturday in Lake Placid was another example. Privett, who owns Dunkin’ locations in Lake Placid, Wauchula, Arcadia, Clewiston, Jupiter and Wellington, hosted a fundraiser for the Lake Placid High School Sound of the Dragon Marching Band.
The band held a car wash at the Lake Placid Dunkin’ and raised more than $585. Dunkin’ added to the effort by donating 20 percent of sales from 9 a.m. until noon. But there was a lot more going on than just a car wash. A Dunkin’ marketing crew was holding raffles, a spin-the-wheel game and prizes. The first 100 lucky customers also received free espresso for the next 30 days. There was even facepainting.
This wasn’t the first time Privett and his Lake Placid Dunkin’ have helped a local organization raise money. Previous car washes have supported the Lake Placid High School Student Government Association, including an effort that benefited the Miracle League, as well as the school’s JROTC program. Saturday it was the band’s turn and the community showed up. Mayor Colleen Charles made and appearance as did County Commissioner Candidate Frank Youngman, a longtime supporter of the Sound of the Dragon Band.
The Sound of the Dragon Marching Band returned in 2024 after an eight-year absence under Band Director John Panella. Panella, assistant Tom Fegers and Color Guard Director Kenzie Thornhill have been working alongside the students to rebuild and grow the program. That takes more than practice. The band is working toward a $15,000 fundraising goal to help with expenses including transportation, uniforms and equipment. Saturday’s car wash added more than $585 toward that effort, with the final contribution growing once Dunkin’s share of the morning’s sales is added.
Privett was quick to give credit to his employees for their part in making events like Saturday’s possible and reiterated his commitment to giving back. Saturday showed the best of Lake Placid: a local business opening its doors, employees pitching in and a school group leaving with a little more help than it had when the day began.
