EX-CARDINALS PITCHER AL HRABOSKY TO KICK OFF BOY SCOUTS' FUND RAISER

Al Hrabosky, the "Mad Hungarian" of the 1970s St. Louis Cardinals baseball team and a St. Louis broadcaster, will help the Boy Scouts kick off its annual fund-raising campaign Thursday.

The Friends of Scouting campaign starts at 7:30 a.m. at the Drury Lodge in Cape Girardeau.

Steve Taylor, president of NationsBank in Cape Girardeau, is the 1999 Friends of Scouting chairman for the Shawnee District. He will lead 100 volunteers to raise $50,000.

Money raised is used to keep summer camp fees the lowest in the country. It is also used to assist boys who are unable to pay for camp, uniforms or registration fees.

In addition, Friends of Scouting money is used for leader training to maintain the Scout service center in Cape Girardeau and other Scout properties and camps.

During his 13-year major league career, Hrabosky compiled 97 saves and earned Fireman of the Year honors in 1975.

He works as a sportscaster, providing expert commentary during Cardinals telecasts. In Cape Girardeau, Hrabosky will speak about teamwork and leadership.

"His presentation will help inspire local businessmen and women who will be calling on companies and individuals in the area to contribute to the campaign," said Tom Turpin, Scout executive.