 Well, through some small donations collected during the Fourth of July parade, the Bemidji Fire Department has raised $4,000 to give Muscular Dystrophy the boot. The Muscular Dystrophy Association has teamed up with fire departments nationwide through the International Association of Firefighters to promote the cause. Last year, departments across the U.S. were able to raise more than $24 million. Well, this is the only time the local departments collect donations that are excited to see so many chip in. This kind of shows that every little bit helps. You know, when you put it all together across the country, it ends up being quite a bit of money. A final total for the fundraiser will be completed in the near future after all the remaining coins are counted. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.