BUSINESSES ASSIST MDA WITH SHAMROCKS DRIVE

CAPE GIRARDEAU -- As St. Patrick's Day approaches, several area businesses are asking their customers to donate to the leprechaun's pot of gold in a benefit for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

"Businesses began March 1 the `Shamrocks Against Muscular Dystrophy' promotion," said Ken Lucy, of MDA.

"In this promotion, customers print their names on a green shamrock after making at least a $1 donation to the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Their shamrock is displayed until St. Patrick's Day."

Businesses in Cape County which are participating are Cutmart on Route K, both D-Mart locations, Ken's Keg Shoppe II, Pizza Hut in Cape and Jackson, Schaper IGA and Stop 'N Shop in Cape and Jackson.

The promotion will run until Sunday. The money raised will be turned over to the MDA's Twin Rivers Chapter which serves counties in Missouri, Illinois and Kentucky.

MDA provides a free medical care program for children and adults affected by 40 different neuromuscular disorders.

For more information call 1-800-455-1234.