End of A Era

It's an end of a era, in that the Muscular Dystrophy Association announced that they would no longer hold the telethon on Labor Day Weekend. Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin were the first hosts back in 1956, and after that Jerry Lewis hosted until 2010 when he and the MDA parted ways.

In 1966 the Telethon expanded and began on Sunday, and would go through 7 PM on Labor Day. The past two years, the Telethon was just a two hour show, and was not shown locally in Bangor. WABI-TV was the long time partner station, and all the anchors would dress in tuxedos and fancy dresses to do the local breaks when the Telethon was on air.

The Muscular Dystrophy Association will continue to fund raise, but will now go more online and use digital means. According to their website

MDA plans to invest more in digital and mobile channels for consumer engagement and activation. The organization will continue to share the inspirational stories of MDA families on Labor Day and throughout the year via digital channels as part of an emerging year-round plan to revitalize its brand, connect with donors more frequently, strengthen family support, and attract and recognize sponsors in new ways

To see the complete statement by the Muscular Dystrophy Association click HERE