Firefighters raise $8,000 for MDA

  Rising gas prices may have left people with less money to give to the charity, but area firefighters still managed to raise about $8,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

  The Yuma-area chapter of United Yuma Firefighters Association had hoped to match what it raised last year, $10,300, but association spokesman Robby Rodriguez said, "We're happy with the outcome."

  Association members and KYMA weatherman Brad Wills raised the bulk of the money from donations Thursday when they camped out on a billboard at Village Inn PIzza, 41 E. 16th St., Rodriguez said. The billboard was donated by Del Outdoor Advertising Co.

  The remainder was raised in the weekend Fireball event hosted by Cocopah Resort and Conference Center, he said.

  Rodriguez figures rising gas and food prices may have left people with less discretionary money to give to charity.

  The money raised will remain in the community to help those with muscular dystrophy, Rodriguez said.

  Though the fundraisers are over, the firefighters association is continuing to accept donations. For more information about contributing, call Rodriguez at 446-2256.