Cedar Rapids – Some of Benton County’s most notorious residents were “locked up for good” on Thursday, June 18, to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).  The day proved to be successful, raising almost $16,000!  Jailbirds served their time in a mock jail held at the Pizza Ranch in Vinton.

Bail Raisers for the day were Jamie Willie, Belle Plaine Nursery — $691; Pat Lyons, Ideal — $630; Scott Mc Neil, Shellsburg Fire Department — $615; Bonny Chilcote, Belle Plaine Nursing & Rehab — $615; Dean Close, Vinton Eagle — $537; Dan Johnson, Belle Plaine Area Ambulance — $529; Scott Zimmerman, Theisen’s Home Farm Auto — $525; Angie Mc Farland, Times/Vinton Live Wire — $523; Mike O’Brien, Johnson Motor Co. — $510; Sister Mary Hargrafen, St Mary’s Catholic Church — $501; Tricia Miller, Styling With Trish — $500; Al Varner, Mid State Salvage — $500; Lisa Vogt, Michael & Dowd Furniture — $500; Justin Laursen, Fareway — $500; Darlys Hulme, Farmers Savings Bank & Trust — $500 and Bret Nelson, Fareway — $500; Evan Hrabak, Hrabak Funeral Home — $246.

The “prisoners” were selected as caring civic leaders who want to make a difference in the community.  All of the participants were asked to raise their “bail” in donations and pledges.

Local sponsor of the MDA Benton County Lock-Up Luncheon was the Pizza Ranch.  MDA would like to thank them for their support of the Benton County Lock-Up Luncheon. They would also like to thank the Benton County Volunteer Program for their help in making the event a success.

The funds raised will help MDA fund local research at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. MDA provides patient care services to over 400 individuals in Eastern Iowa who have been diagnosed with one of 43 neuromuscular diseases.  These services include making payments and repairs on wheelchairs, leg braces and communication devices, sending youngsters ages 6-17 to Summer Camp at Camp Courageous in Monticello, and providing support groups.

Anyone interested in planning or participating in an MDA Lock-Up can contact the local MDA office at (319) 393-8905.