Thursday, July 29, 2010

Long Beach Local 287 to Fill-the-Boot For the Second Time This Summer

LONG BEACH, N.Y., July 29, 2010 – The Long Beach Fire Department Local 287 will be filling-the-boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) once again this summer on Saturday, August 21 and Sunday, August 22, 2010. Long Beach firefighters are less than $1,000 away from reaching their 2010 goal to raise $10,000 for MDA!

Long Beach firefighters will be collecting donations for the local families affected with muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular diseases from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the intersection of East Park Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard in Long Beach, N.Y. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area. Since 2005 Long Beach firefighters raised $31,343 through their fill-the-boot efforts. This year, they have already raised $9,630 through fill-the-boot efforts.

The Long Beach Fire Department Local 287 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Deanna Forrester at (516) 358-1012 or dforrester@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Click Here to Donate Online to Long Beach Local 287's Fill-the-Boot program.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

New Bedford Fire Department Surpasses 2010 Fill-the-Boot Goal

NEW BEDFORD, Mass., July 28, 2010 – Local supporters helped the New Bedford Fire Department Local 841 successfully raise $18,677 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) through their fill-the-boot drives this summer, surpassing their 2009 fundraising efforts of $10,800.

MDA would like to give special thanks to not only the New Bedford firefighters for volunteering their time, but also to the local community who donated to this very important cause. All of the proceeds raised will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups which benefit local individuals and families affected by neuromuscular disease.

The New Bedford Fire Department Local 841 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or Jeremy Nappi at (401) 732-1910 or jnappi@mdausa.org.

Springfield Local 648 to Fill-the-Boot for MDA

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., July 28, 2010 – The Springfield Fire Department Local 648 will be filling-the-boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Saturday, August 7 and Sunday, August 8, 2010.

Springfield firefighters will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease at the intersection of Boston Road and Parker Street on Saturday, August 7, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Sunday, August 8, from 12:30 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area.

The Springfield Fire Department Local 648 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Melody Avery at (860) 633-4466 or mavery@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

5th District Firefighters to Hold First Ever Bowl-a-Thon for MDA

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y., July 27, 2010 – The 5th district of the New York State Professional Fire Fighters Association (NYSPFFA) will be holding their first ever Bowl-A-Thon to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Tuesday, August 10, 2010.

The Bowl-a-Thon will take place at New Roc’n Bowl, located at 33 Lecount Place in New Rochelle, N.Y., from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Proceeds from the event will help send children affected by neuromuscular diseases to MDA Summer Camp, located in Spring Valley, N.Y. Each department will be split into two teams of four and will have a goal of sending one child to MDA Summer Camp. This year, members of the 5th District have set a goal to raise $15,000, which will send three cabins of children to MDA Summer Camp.

NYSPFFA is part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), which is the largest national sponsor of MDA. This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to MDA. In 2009, firefighters across America led by IAFF members have raised over $28 million to aid in the fight against neuromuscular disease. Members of the 5th District raised over $47,000 in 2009 to aid MDA in its fight.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information about this event please contact Amanda Cann at (914) 345-5062 or acann@mdausa.org or contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Waterbury Local 1339 to Hold Fill-the-Boot Drives for MDA

WATERBURY, Conn., July 27, 2010 – The Waterbury Fire Department Local 1339 will be holding six more Fill-the-Boot drives in Waterbury, Conn. for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) this summer.

On Friday, July 30, Friday, August 6, and Friday, August 13, 2010, Waterbury firefighters will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. at the Stop-N-Shops on both Chase Avenue and Wolcott Street. On Saturday, July 31, Waterbury firefighters will be filling-the-boot between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Stop-N-Shop on Reidville Drive. On Saturday, August 7, firefighters will fill-the-boot at Brass Mill Center from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and the Stop-N-Shop on Reidville Drive from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. On Sunday, August 14, firefighters will fill-the-boot at Brass Mill Center from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. and the Stop-N-Shop on Wolcott Street from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. On Friday, August 20, firefighters will fill-the-boot at the Stop-N-Shop on Wolcott Street from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. In 2009, Waterbury firefighters raised $6,127 for MDA. This year, they have set a goal to raise $10,000.

The Waterbury Fire Department Local 1339 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

New Haven Local 825 To Hold Fill-the-Boot Drives for MDA

NEW HAVEN, Conn., July 27, 2010 – The New Haven Fire Department Local 825 will be filling-the-boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on three different occasions this summer.

New Haven Local 825 will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease at various locations throughout New Haven between 9 a.m. and noon on Friday, July 30, Friday, August 6, and Friday, August 20, 2010. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area. The New Haven Local 825 Fire Department is consistently the highest fundraising Local in the State of Conn. In 2009, New Haven firefighters raised $33,400 for MDA. This year, they have set a goal to raise $35,000.

The New Haven Fire Department Local 825 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Monday, July 26, 2010

New Haven Business Leaders "Locked Up" For Having a Good Heart

New Haven, Conn., July 26, 2010 – Over 150 local business leaders will be heading to “jail” on Thursday, August 5th from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Café Goodfellas in order to raise their “bail” for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Community business leaders will be arrested at their place of business and transported to Café Goodfellas, located at 758 State Street in New Haven, to serve their time at the local MDA Lock-Up. At Café Goodfellas, the “jailbirds” will be served complimentary “jail” food while they each attempt to raise at least $3,200 in bail money.

Last year local “jailbirds” raised over $36,000 in bail money, all of which went towards the fight against neuromuscular disease. This year the local MDA has set a goal to raise $63,000 at the event.

This is also the first time the New Haven Lock-Up has been designated a Telethon Lock-Up Event. This is the last lock-up event before the local broadcast of the annual Jerry Lewis Labor Day Telethon live from the Mohegan Sun on Monday, September 6th. This means that any donation of $250-$499 will be awarded a Silver Star, any donation of $500 or more will be given a Gold Star. These “stars” will be featured on the live local broadcast by Fox 61.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. The majority of contributions to MDA come from individual donors.

For more information on this event please contact Kristine Cohen at kcohen@mdausa.org or (203) 248-6500 or Jen Ksiazek at jksiazek@mdausa.org or (203) 248-6500.

North Smithfield Fire Department To Hold 6th Annual Ride for Life to Benefit MDA

North Smithfield, R.I., July 26, 2010 – The North Smithfield Fire Department Local 3984 will be holding its 6th annual Ride for Life to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Sunday, August 15, 2010.

Motorcyclists can register for the event and begin the ride at the North Smithfield Fire Station, located at 675 St. Paul Street, at 9:30 a.m. It will cost $20 per bike and $10 per passenger to participate in the ride.

Motorcyclists from all over Rhode Island and New England will then begin the 45 mile ride at 11 a.m. After the ride, participants will enjoy a Barbeque Cookout at Gators Pub, located at the corner of Main Street and Victory Highway in North Smithfield. In the past, this event has raised $2,824 for MDA. This year, the North Smithfield firefighters hope to raise $3,500.

Donations will also be accepted by mail, if requested, by the North Smithfield Fire Department at North Smithfield Professional Firefighters, P.O. Box 379, North Smithfield, RI, 02876.

The North Smithfield Fire Department Local 3984 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information on this event please contact Firefighter Steve Provost at (401)762-1135 or Steve Matos at (401) 732-1910 or smatos@mdausa.org.

Newport Fire Fighters Local 1080 to Hold 34th Annual Charity Golf Scramble to Benefit MDA

PORTSMOUTH, R.I., July 26, 2010 – The Newport Fire Fighters Local 1080 will be holding its 34th Annual Charity Golf Scramble to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Friday, August 13, 2010.

The tournament will take place at Green Valley Country Club, located on Union Street in Portsmouth, R.I. The event will tee off with a shotgun start at noon. Golfers should arrive no later than 11:30 a.m.

Registration for one golfer costs $125 and registration for a foursome costs $500. Golfers can register as a single, twosome, threesome, or foursome. Teams with less than four players will be filled with Newport Fire Fighters. Registration includes a cookout lunch, ribs and chicken dinner, golf, cart, beer, soda, a gift bag, MDA donations and cash prizes! Prizes will be awarded to the Top Six Finishers, Closest to the Pins, Closest to the Line, Longest Putt, and Worst Team. This event raised over $5,200 during the past two years and this year’s goal is to raise $3,000. For registration information, call Firefighter Allan Gray at (401) 846-2700 or (401) 692-1527.

The Newport Fire Fighters Local 1080 is part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information on this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org or Steve Matos at (401) 732-1910 or smatos@mdausa.org.

Attleboro Local 838 and North Attleboro Local 1992 Compete for Grand Prize in 3rd Annual Wing Off for MDA Finals

(Photo courtesy of Richard W. Dionne Jr. and EastBayRI.com)
SEEKONK, Mass., July 26, 2010 – Attleboro Firefighters Local 848 and the North Attleboro Firefighters Local 1992 will be competing for the grand prize in the final round of the 3rd Annual Wing Off for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Tuesday, August 10, 2010. The three-part Wing Off Tournament is sponsored by Bone Yard Barbecue, Attleboro Firefighters Local 848, Seekonk Firefighters Local 1931, North Attleboro Firefighters Local 1992 and Plainville Firefighters Local 3415.

The Wing Off Finals will take place at Bone Yard Barbecue, located at 540 Central Ave. in Seekonk, Mass., on August 10, 2010 at 7 p.m. The team who can eat the most wings wins the tournament. There will also be a furniture raffle and TV raffle to raise additional money. Tickets are available at all Fire Department Headquarters in Attleboro, North Attleboro, Seekonk and Plainville, Mass. Furniture raffle tickets will cost $10 each or six for $50. TV raffle tickets cost $5 each or six for $20. The money raised from the Wing-Off will go to assist 500 families in Bristol County and Rhode Island. This year, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) hopes to raise $8,000 for MDA.

This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education, medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information on this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org or Steve Matos at (401) 732-1910 or smatos@mdausa.org

Rockland County Business Leaders Being Sent to Jail for a Good Cause

ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y., July 26, 2010 – Over 100 local business leaders will be heading to “jail” on Wednesday, August 4, 2010 from 11 a.m. until 3p.m. at Black Bear Nyack in order to raise their “bail” for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).

Community business leaders will be arrested at their place of business and transported to Black Bear Nyack, located at 82 Main Street, to serve their time at the local MDA Lock-Up. At Black Bear Nyack, the “jailbirds” will be served complimentary “jail” food while they each attempt to raise at least $2,400 in bail money.

Leros Point to Point, Mex Limo & Car Service, Majesty Limo & Car Service, On Time Transport Inc., and Twin’s Mobility Limo Service will be kindly volunteering their time and services to transport participants to and from the event. Last year local “jailbirds” raised $50,000 in bail money, all of which went towards the fight against neuromuscular disease. This year the local MDA has set a goal to raise $75,000 at the event.

Several repeat offenders will be returning to “jail” to serve more time this year, including last year’s top “jailbird,” Joseph Sarvis, who raised $3,000. Lifetime Offender Awards will be given to Philip Roventini, PC, who has raised close to $10,000 over the last 10 years, and Gina Pieroni, who has raised over $4,000 for MDA. We are excited to also have the Mayor of Spring Valley, Mayor Jasmine Norami support our efforts and be locked up for a good cause!

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. The majority of contributions to MDA come from individual donors.

For more information on this event please contact Amanda Cann at acann@mdausa.org or (914) 345-5062 or Brooke Eder at beder@mdausa.org or (203) 288-3500.

Friday, July 23, 2010

NALC Branch 387 to Have Third Annual Softball Tournament and Picnic to Benefit MDA

Yonkers, N.Y., July 23, 2010 – The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) Branch 387 will have its third annual Co-Ed Softball Tournament and Picnic to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Sunday, August 1, 2010.

The tournament and picnic will be held at Redmond/Cook Field at 207 Cook Avenue in Yonkers, N.Y. from 9 a.m. until dusk. Participants will not only enjoy a fun day of softball, but also a day full of food, fun, and entertainment. Raffle tickets for a variety of prizes will also be sold at the tournament for some wonderful prizes. Children are encouraged to attend and enjoy the fun! The Yonkers Fire Department will be on the scene to provide attendees with entertainment and to join in on the fun as well.
The NALC has set a goal to raise $6,000 this year for the fight against neuromuscular disease. The money raised will allow the local MDA to support families in the surrounding area by providing medical services, support groups, and assistance in purchasing orthopedic equipment and repairs.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA combats neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive medical and support services, and far-reaching professional and public health education.

For more information about this event please contact Amanda Cann at (914) 345-5062 or acann@mdausa.org or contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

G.H. Berlin Oil Company to Hold 14th Annual Golf Classic to Benefit MDA

MANCHESTER, Conn., July 20, 2010 – G.H. Berlin Oil Company will be holding their 14th annual Golf Classic to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Tuesday, July 27, 2010.

The tournament will take place at Manchester Country Club, located at 305 South Main Street in Manchester, Conn. The event will tee off at 1 p.m. and run until 5:30 p.m. The tournament consists of an 18-hole round and will be followed by dinner, a silent auction and Chinese raffle. Since its inception, the tournament has raised an excess of $250,000. G.H. Berlin has set a goal to raise over $25,000 for MDA at this year’s tournament.

This year, the tournament will be held in memory of Rick Booth, one of the co-owners of G.H. Berlin who passed away last winter. The annual tournament will be renamed the “Rick Booth Memorial Golf Classic” in his honor.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy, and education.

For more information about the event please contact Dan Marquis at (860) 633-4466 or at dmarquis@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

MDA Honors East Hartford College Student with Top Achievement Award for Connecticut


TUCSON, Ariz., July 20, 2010 – The Muscular Dystrophy Association has named Kristin Duquette of East Hartford the recipient of its 2010 Robert Ross Personal Achievement Award for Connecticut.

Duquette, 19, was selected for MDA’s highest achievement award in Connecticut for her outstanding work on behalf of others with disabilities and her determination to excel in the face of personal challenges.

Duquette has facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, which causes weakness and wasting of the muscles around the eyes and mouth, shoulders, upper arms and lower legs. She is ambulatory, but also sometimes uses a wheeled walker or manual wheelchair.

An accomplished swimmer, Duquette has broken three junior national Paralympic records and is the only person in the country with her disability classification to complete the 200-meter backstroke. Her time in the 50-meter backstroke has her world-ranked. A student at Wheaton College, she hopes to qualify for the U.S. Paralympic team for the 2012 Paralympics in London.

Duquette also is an accomplished violinist and public speaker. She has made many presentations to raise awareness of disability issues in communities and schools across Connecticut.

“I’m very pleased to recognize Kristin Duquette as Connecticut’s Robert Ross MDA Personal Achievement Award recipient for 2010,” said MDA President & CEO Gerald C. Weinberg. “Her accomplishments are a tribute to the East Hartford community, and an example of the kind of leadership MDA is proud to support.”

Duquette will accept the award during the local broadcast of the 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon on September 6 on Fox61 at Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Conn.

About the award

Duquette was selected as Connecticut’s state recipient after having been selected for a local achievement award by MDA’s Northern Connecticut Chapter.

One person will be selected from among all the state honorees around the country and named MDA’s national 2011 Robert Ross Personal Achievement Award recipient. The national award recipient will be announced on the Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon, broadcast Sept. 5-6.

The award is named in memory of Robert Ross, MDA’s longtime chief executive who died in 2006. Ross created the Personal Achievement Award program in 1992 to recognize the exemplary accomplishments and community service of people who have any of the 40-plus neuromuscular diseases for which MDA seeks treatments and cures.

John Quinlan, a medical doctor from Lakeside Park, Ky., is MDA’s 2010 national award recipient. Quinlan, who has facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, also is director of the MDA clinic at the University of Cincinnati.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education.

In the East Hartford area, MDA maintains clinics at Bay State Medical Center in Springfield and Hospital for Special Care in New Britain.

For more information about Personal Achievement Award recipients, visit http://www.mda.org/commprog/paa/.

CHANGE OF DATE: Stratford Local 998 Postpones Fill-the-Boot for MDA until August 28, 2010

STRATFORD, Conn., July 20, 2010 – The Stratford Fire Department Local 998 has changed the date of their Fill-the-Boot drive for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) to Saturday, August 28, 2010.

Stratford firefighters will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease at the Stratford Fire Station on Main Street and Barnum Avenue from 10 AM until 3 PM. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area. They have set a goal of $2,500.

The Stratford Fire Department Local 998 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Amanda Cann at (914) 345-5062 or acann@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Monday, July 19, 2010

A&P Charity Golf Classic Raises a Record-Breaking $425,000 for MDA

Far Hills, N.J., July 19, 2010 – Almost 450 golfers participated in The A&P Family of Supermarkets’ 15th Annual Charity Golf Classic, held at Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Far Hills, NJ, to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) on Monday, July 12, 2010.

This year’s A&P Golf Classic raised a record breaking $425,000 for the fight against neuromuscular disease. Considered the largest golf tournament in the country to benefit MDA, the A&P Charity Golf Classic has raised over $4 million in the past fifteen years. A&P also hosts a day of activities at MDA Summer Camp in Spring Valley, N.Y. A&P believes that the best way to be a good neighbor is to give back to the communities they serve. Jayson Torres, A&P Goodwill Ambassador for MDA, came to the tournament to show his support.

“The A&P Charity Golf Classic is the single largest MDA golf outing in the country and a source of pride for many, including myself,” said Tod Van Kirk, MDA Regional Director and a coordinator for the A&P Golf Classic, “This tournament is a great event, a fun day, and a chance for everyone to join in the fight against neuromuscular disease.”

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. The majority of contributions to MDA come from individual donors.

For more information about this event, please contact Tod Van Kirk at (203) 288-3500 or tvankirk@mdausa.org.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Kelly's Kone Konnection of Hamden, Conn. Names Flavors for MDA

Hamden, Conn., July 16, 2010 - Kelly Stone of Kelly's Kone Konnection, located at 2583 Whitney Avenue, Hamden, Conn., has generously named two ice cream flavors for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) to help promote the 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon. This is the third consecutive year that Kelly’s Kone Konnection has named a flavor for MDA.

Members of the local community can now enjoy the special edition flavors “S’more Hope for Jerry’s Kids” and “Jerry’s Kids Muscle Mint” during the months of July and August at Kelly’s Kone Konnection.

Kelly’s Kone Konnection’s support in helping us promote the Telethon will definitely increase our viewership in the Hamden area, which will in turn help local families and individuals affected by neuromuscular disease.

The 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon will be broadcast during Labor Day Weekend (September 5 and 6, 2010) from Mohegan Sun Casino on Fox61 WTIC. Contributions to the Telethon will help fund diagnostic and follow-up care for people with muscular dystrophy, assistance with the purchase and repair of wheelchairs and leg braces, physical, occupational and respiratory therapy consultations, assistance with the purchase of communication devices, medical and scientific conferences and much more. Other services include support groups and MDA’s Annual Summer Camp for children with neuromuscular disease.

MDA is a voluntary health agency dedicated to helping more than one million Americans affected by neuromuscular disorders through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far reaching professional and public health education.

Bristol Fire Department Local 773 to Fill-the-Boot for MDA

Bristol, Conn., July 16, 2010 – The Bristol Fire Department Local 773 will be filling-the-boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for the second time this summer on Saturday, July 24, 2010.

Bristol firefighters will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease at five different locations from 9 a.m. until noon. The locations include Memorial Boulevard at Mellen Street, Perkins Street at James P. Casey Road, Washington Street at Camp Street, Birch Street at Redstone Hill Road and Maltby Street at Mix Street. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area.

The Bristol Fire Department Local 773 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Casey Bilodeau at (860) 633-4466 or cbilodeau@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Bridgeport Local 834 to Fill-the-Boot for MDA Four Times This Summer

Bridgeport, Conn., July 15, 2010 – The Bridgeport Fire Department Local 843 will be filling-the-boot for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) this summer for the first time since 2008. The first of Bridgeport’s four fill-the-boot drives will be held this Saturday, July 17, 2010.

Bridgeport firefighters will be collecting donations for the fight against neuromuscular disease throughout the city at intersections near each of the eight Bridgeport Fire Houses on Saturday, July 17, Saturday, July 24, Saturday, July 31, and Saturday, August 14, 2010. All of the proceeds will go towards MDA’s services, research programs, and support groups that benefit individuals and families in the local area. The Bridgeport Fire Department is also hosting their Annual Walter Flyntz Golf Tournament to benefit MDA on Thursday, September 9, 2010. Please call Mike Kamszik at (203) 767-3331 for more information. In 2009, Bridgeport Local 834 raised $16,180 from their 2008 Fill-the-Boot program and 2009 Golf Tournament. Since 1981, Bridgeport Local 834 has raised over $345,810. This year, Bridgeport firefighters have set at goal to raise $16,000 for MDA.

The Bridgeport Fire Department Local 834 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). This is the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating their time and efforts to the MDA. Since 1954 they have raised nearly $275 million dollars for the organization. They are the largest national sponsor of the MDA and pride themselves on their devotion to the cause.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Amanda Cann at (914) 345-5062 or acann@mdausa.org or Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Governor M. Jodi Rell Declares Proclamation for "International Association of Fire Fighters and Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer of 2010"

Hamden, Conn., July 15, 2010 – Governor M. Jodi Rell has issued a proclamation for the State of Connecticut declaring that the Summer of 2010 be known as “International Association of Fire Fighters and Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer.” The proclamation acknowledges the hard work and dedication of Connecticut firefighters, especially considering their loyalty to raising money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Connecticut’s firefighters raised over $469,000 in 2009.

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) is the largest national sponsor of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. In 2009, firefighters across America led by IAFF members raised over $22,737,000 to aid in the fight against neuromuscular disease.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association has been in a partnership with the International Association of Fire Fighters for the past 56 years. The proclamation reads: “The State of Connecticut is exceptionally proud of the dedicated firefighters who practice selfless acts of bravery as they risk their own personal safety to rescue others. Their commitment to protecting our communities sets a fine example of human caring and kindness. In addition to their daily service to our communities, members of the International Association of Fire Fighters have joined the Muscular Dystrophy Association for the past 56 years in the fight against neuromuscular disease.”

MDA is a voluntary health agency dedicated to helping more than one million Americans affected by neuromuscular disorders through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far reaching professional and public health education.

For more information about this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Volunteers Needed For 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon

Garden City, N.Y., July 13, 2010 – The Long Island office of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) is looking for people interested in volunteering at the local 2010 Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon Pledge Center on Sunday, September 5 and Monday, September 6, 2010. The pledge center is located at the Ruth S. Harley University Center of Adelphi University at 1 South Avenue in Garden City, N.Y.

A vital component of the Telethon is the satellite pledge center that takes the majority of the incoming calls from donors who live throughout Long Island and the Tri-borough area. Volunteers will be needed during the Telethon to help answer phone and prepare mailings beginning on Sunday evening, September 5, 2010 from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. On Monday, September 6, 2010, volunteers are needed from noon to 4 p.m. and 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Since the funds raised at the local Telethon benefit families across New York, MDA will be looking for volunteers from all New York counties. This is a great opportunity for community members to not only help out those affected by neuromuscular disease, but also to be a part of the nationally known Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon.

Those interested in volunteering at the local Telethon must pre-register by calling DeAnna Forrester or Carolyn Miskulin at the Long Island MDA office at (516) 358-1012.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. The majority of contributions to MDA come from individual donors.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

A&P Family of Supermarkets to Host 15th Annual Golf Classic to Benefit MDA

FAR HILLS, N.J., July 1, 2010 – On Monday, July 12, 2010, the A&P Family of Supermarkets will be hosting the 15th Annual Charity Golf Classic to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the beautiful golf course of Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Far Hills, N.J.

Considered the largest golf tournament in the country to benefit MDA, the A&P Charity Golf Classic has raised over $4 million in the past fifteen years. Through the generosity of the many friends of A&P, the event was able to donate nearly $505,000 in 2009 for MDA’s research and services. A&P also hosts a day of activities at MDA Summer Camp in Spring Valley, N.Y. A&P believes that the best way to be a good neighbor is to give back to the communities they serve. Jayson Torres, A&P Goodwill Ambassador for MDA, will be at the tournament to show his support.

“The A&P Charity Golf Classic is the single largest MDA golf outing in the country and a source of pride for many, including myself,” said Tod Van Kirk, MDA Regional Director and a coordinator for the A&P Golf Classic, “This tournament is a great event, a fun day, and a chance for everyone to join in the fight against neuromuscular disease.”

Breakfast and registration for the tournament will be at 7 a.m. with tee off at 9 a.m. Before the tournament, golfers can participate in a putting contest at 7:30 a.m. After the tournament there will be a silent auction with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by a live auction and an awards dinner.

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. MDA also supports nearly 330 research projects around the world and sponsors 200 hospital-affiliated clinics.

For more information about this event please contact Brooke Eder at (203) 288-3500 or beder@mdausa.org.