In this edition of the Newsletter you will read about the Center's activities related to basic and clinic research and clinical care activities-specifically rehabilitation and the team approach to care. The beginning of the Fall season, for many involved in ALS, is about preparing for and tuning in to the MDA telethon. Once again MDA has exceeded last year's fundraising and awareness efforts by raising $58.3 million dollars to fight ALS and other neuromuscular diseases. The telethon featured several profiles of individuals and their families living with ALS. This increase in ALS presence on the telethon, along with the recent publicity of the ALS Division in MDA, reaffirmed our confidence in MDA as a leader in support of clinical care and research for ALS. In keeping with the fight for a cure, the members of Columbia's ALS Research Center attended the Wings over Wall Street ALS fundraiser on October 3rd. The event was a huge success thanks to the Wings committee under the leadership of Michael Beier and the experience and efforts of the NY City MDA team. The event estimates that the funds raised should exceed $1.8 million dollars - all to be directed to ALS research efforts at Columbia's ALS Research Center and Johns Hopkins. The team at Columbia is grateful to all the patients, their families and friends for their tremendous generosity and support. Another highlight of the evening occurred when 2 patients from Columbia's ALS Research Center were recognized for their efforts in supporting ALS research. Norma Steck was given the Beier Award and Peter Demmerle the Spirit Award. Congratulations to you both!