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The Muscular Dystrophy "Lock-Up" came to Angelina's in the Admiral Junction in West Seattle April 7. Local business and community leaders agree to be "arrested" around lunch hour for having a "big heart". This community-wide event raises funds. The restaurant was packed with local merchants who had raised money for "bail".

Five fire fighters volunteered to pick up the "jailbirds" at home or work, and a few MDA staffers also drove, including Liz Truong, Exective Director, MDA, and Susan Burdick with MDA. Offenders were punished by being picked up in new BMW's, provided by BMW of Seattle, also a sponsor at other area lock-ups.

Fire fighters included Bob Crawford, Scott Dau, Station 29, Tim O'Mahony, Station 32, Colby Cruz, and Chris Johnson, North Highline Fire Station. Firefighters also participate in the annual Fill-The-Boot campaign for MDA, where commuters drop money into their boots at intersections.

Skip and Allison Rich of Arbor Heights own Angelina's. Said Rich, "The MDA asked us if we'd be interested in helping out and donating the location for their charity. I said, 'Absolutleyl! Sounds like fun.' We put together the food and even the jailbirds get to eat."

Two million volunteers are the driving force that enables MDA to accelerate its worldwide research program and provide diagnostic and follow-up care through 220 clinics nationwide. Volunteers are the backbone of the Association's programs, helping with summer camp, support groups, seminars, Telethon, special events and many other programs.

MDA special events are a fun way to raise vital funds for the battle against neuromuscular diseases. If you'd like more information about participating in the fun events described below, please call your local MDA representative. To learn more about national sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jerry Weinberg, MDA's President & CEO, at (520) 529-2000 or via e-mail at jerryweinberg@mdausa.org.