Q: What was the total dollar amount raised by this year’s Muscular Dystrophy Association telethon in September? How does that amount compare to past years? Why will Jerry Lewis no longer be the spokesman for MDA?
-- Martin Nash, Conyers
A: The 2011 Muscular Dystrophy Association Labor Day Telethon raised more than $61.5 million in just six hours, which was $2.6 million more than what was raised in 2010. It also was the highest amount since the recession began, according to the MDA's website. The show was shortened this year from its traditional 24-hour format and was broadcast from 6 p.m. to midnight in all time zones. The MDA never provided a reason why Jerry Lewis, who hosted the telethon for 45 years, was relieved of his duties. MDA Chairman of the Board of Directors R. Rodney Howell released this statement in August: "Jerry Lewis is a world-class humanitarian and we're forever grateful to him for his more than half century of generous service to MDA. We will not be replacing him as MDA national chairman, and he will not be appearing on the telethon."
Q: It was reported that Andy Rooney died following complications from a surgery. What kind of surgery did he have?
-- Andy Sims, Douglasville
A: The kind of surgery that Rooney had was not disclosed, with media reports stating only that it was minor. However, Rooney, who was known for his "60 Minutes" commentaries, suffered serious complications from the surgery and was in stable condition at an undisclosed New York City hospital before dying on Nov. 4, according to CBS News. He was 92.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
About the Author
