UMAC raises $65,000 for MDA

West Nyack — Over the past six years, the annual United Martial Arts Centers’ Kick-A-Thon has raised funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This year UMAC leaders, students, friends and families have raised $65,000 for MDA. One of the events contributing to that amount was held this past Saturday at the Palisades Center Mall in West Nyack. According to the organization’s president, Master Edmund Ciarfella, “We do a lot of punching and kicking and sweating, as you might expect, but students are also taught to be winners in life, not just at championships. They are taught the philosophy of selflessness and giving back.” UMAC’s efforts for MDA were recognized by the New York State Senate, which proclaimed March 4, 2006 as United Martial Arts Centers Kick-A-Thon Day for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. MDA is a voluntary health agency working to defeat more than 40 neuromuscular diseases through programs of worldwide research, comprehensive services, and far-reaching professional and public health education. For more information about MDA or UMAC, call 914-345-5062.