board of trustees 2research 4advocacy 6golden circle 8chapter news 10

special events 12fund raising 16programs 19foundations 20volunteers 21

Southern California Chapter

Moving is...Who We Are

“This is not yourgrandmother’s MSSociety any longer,”proclaimed Joyce

Nelson, National MS SocietyPresident. The Society has a new andbold attitude — we are people whowant to do something about multiplesclerosis NOW to move togethertoward a world free of MS. It is criticalthat we engage others to raiseawareness and understanding for MS.How do we accomplish this?

The Society enlisted the help ofthe premiere branding andadvertising agency, Wieden +Kennedy, world-famous for creatingbrands for Starbucks, Nike, Coca-Colaand more. Dan Wieden, presidentand chief creative officer, saw theopportunity to help the Society as animportant and long-lasting way to dosomething for his daughter Laurawho has been living with MS sinceshe was 24. He approached BuzSawyer, managing director of the NYCoffice, whose sister has MS— theirmother also had MS. Wieden engageda full team of strategic planners andcreative staff. Together, they assistedus pro-bono to build a whole new

SPRING2007

MS movement and introduce a newidentity for the Society, includingmore than $1 million worth of video,print ads, billboards and TV spots todebut during MS Awareness Week,March 5–11.

Wieden + Kennedy developed ournew position and messaging based onthe universal truth of movement.Movement is not just a physicalreference —movement refers to alltypes of movement, thoughts, ideas,nuance and emotions. All of us,whether we have a connection to MSor not, can relate to movement.

People with MS know somethingabout moving that most of us don’tunderstand—moving is not aguarantee. The Society helps address

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The National MS Society is dedicated to ending the devastating effects of MS

Join us—let’s move! MS Walk p.12

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2

Publication of theNational Multiple Sclerosis Society,Southern California Chapter

Chair Chapter PresidentJulie Kaufer, Esq. Leon LeBuffe, Ph.D.

MS Connection EditorMarni Deckter

Studies show that early and ongoingtreatment with an FDA-approvedtherapy can reduce future diseaseactivity and improve quality of life formany people with multiple sclerosis.National MS Society medical advisorsrecommend that people with MS talkwith their health care professionalabout using one of these medicationsand about strategies and effectivetreatments to manage symptoms. Ifyou or someone you know has MS,please contact the Society today atwww.nationalmssociety.org or1.800.FIGHT.MS to learn about waysto help manage multiple sclerosis andabout current research that may oneday reveal a cure.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society(NMSS) does not endorse products,services or manufacturers. Such namesappear here solely because they areconsidered valuable information. TheNMSS assumes no liability for the useof contents of any product or servicementioned. Information provided by theNMSS is based upon professionaladvice, published, experience andexpert opinion. Information provided inresponse to questions does notconstitute therapeuticrecommendations or prescriptions. TheNMSS recommends that all questionsand information be discussed with apersonal physician.

The NMSS is dedicated to ending thedevastating effects of MS.

© 2007 NMSS Southern California Chapter.

TrusteesJulie Kaufer, Esq., ChairEric AdairByron AllenArturo BarquetJohn V. Bock, Jr.David Brandes, M.D.Richard CorgelBruce CorwinDonna Dawson, C.P.A.Derrick DobaBarry EngelmanCheryl S.

Feldmann, Ph.D.Tracie FissBrian D. FoxBarbara Giesser, M.D.Roy GlickmanKevin GoetzDavid M. GoldsteinDavid E. GoodingSandy GrushowJohn HallRobert E. HarperRich HavelBruce HeckerCharles HirschhornLeon LeBuffe, Ph.D.Simpson C. Leonard, Jr.Kathy Lukes, R.N.Paul M. Mahoney, Esq.Robert ManciniLarry McEwenSue MeltzerRoland MesaSenn MosesSanford PanitchDavid PerrenScott Perren, C.P.A.

Kim PhillipsCurtis RosenthalSheri SafanArthur E. Schramm, Jr.Britta SchrammFern SeizerMadeleine

Sherak, Ph.D.Tom SherakEric SmallJon StrumDina Tecimer, Esq.Bill Todman, Jr.Chet WidomStacy WilderLarry Winter

Honorary TrusteesAmy AlcottWalter F. Bauer, Ph.D.Edith FurstSteve GarveyYale GieszlEdith GradyHarland N. Green, Esq.Alan H. LedermanFred LukasMerlin OlsenLawrence PressmanHonorable Richard

J. RiordanLoren E.

Sanchez, Ed.D.David Serrano SewellDennis H.

Vaughn, Esq.Congressman Henry

A. WaxmanJanet WaxmanCharles C. Wolf, Esq.

T R U S T E E S

3

December 7th 2006 was a verymoving day for our Chapter asBoard Chairman Dave Perrenfinished three great years and

passed the gavel to Julie Kaufer. As Juliebecomes Chair we launch a new four-yearplan. By the end of 2010 we will havecarried out initiatives and increasedprograms and services to the Latinocommunity, the newly diagnosed, youngpeople affected by MS, and those livingwith progressive MS and their familymembers. We are developing specific plansto improve access to quality health care,and to enhance “long term care” so thatquality of life can be bettered forindividuals whose independence has beencompromised for an extended orpermanent period by multiple sclerosis.And, more than ever, we will be activists aswe increase our advocacy effort. We joinwith the whole MS Society in a largerinvestment, particularly of volunteer andstaff time, in public relations andmarketing to increase awareness andunderstanding of MS and the National MSSociety. And to do all this, and to stay nearthe cutting edge in our use of technology,and to fund as much outstanding MSresearch as possible, we will all need toleverage our resources and be excellentfund-raisers!

Julie Kaufer, our Board and staff, willhave a very busy 2007. Perhaps the biggest,and arguably most important, challengefor us this year is to fund Dr. RhondaVoskuhl’s estriol trial at UCLA. Estriol, aform of the female hormone estrogen, hasbeen available in pill form for years. Dr.Voskuhl’s seven-site trial could givewomen with relapsing-remitting MS alow-cost oral medication. For a variety ofcomplex reasons the only fundingpossible for this $4.7 million project is

from the NationalMultiple SclerosisSociety, andparticularly fromthis Chapter. Aftera Nationalcontribution and alead gift from theSherak FamilyFoundation wehave launched acampaign to raisean additional $3.8million (gifts andpledges of up to three years welcome!).Trustee Sheri Safan and her husbandSteve are hosting Recipe for MS Researchin February to raise funds for thisproject, and three other special friendsand Trustees are in the queue to sponsorreceptions and dinners to raise thisimportant money. Please do call me ifyou can help! As it stands now, 40% ofthose with relapsing-remitting MS are stillnot taking one of the recommendeddrugs. Anecdotally I know this is becauseof cost, side effects, and fear of needles.Estriol addresses all these problems.

When Dave Perren handed Julie Kauferthe gavel on December 7th hesymbolically gave her the leadership of anextremely strong and active Board. All ofour staff, volunteers and every member ofour Board will need to be very fruitfullyengaged this year as we embark on ourambitious plans for better programs andservices, and to fund these services, ourongoing research including Promise 2010,and the estriol project.

Leon LeBuffe, Ph.D.Chapter President

P R E S I D E N T ’ S M E S S A G E

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal

Leon LeBuffe

Thanks to its generouscontributors, the National MSSociety (NMSS) was able toinvest over $42 million in 2006

into over 350 MS research projectsworldwide. Significant advances madethis year include:

• Acorda Therapeutics announcedpositive results of a Phase 3 clinical trial ofFampridine-SR, an oral drug designed toprovide symptomatic relief bycompensating for lost nerve conduction.In 301 patients with all types of MS, thoseon active treatment showed an averageincrease in walking speed of 25% versusthose on inactive placebo.

• The FDA approved the return tomarket of Tysabri® (natalizumab) to delaythe accumulation of physical disabilityand reduce the frequency of exacerbationsin those with relapsing MS.

• UCLA researchers reported thatadministering Androgel® (testosterone gelapplied to the skin) to 10 men with RRMSsignificantly improved cognitive functionand slowed brain tissue loss. Further studyinvolving larger numbers of patients andcontrol groups is necessary to confirmthese early results.

• In anotheroffshoot from theSociety’s initiative onGender Differences,Dr. Rhonda Voskuhland investigators atUCLA began the firstlarge-scale trial of asex hormone for thetreatment of MS. Thetwo-year, controlledclinical trial of estriol involves 130 womenwith early relapsing-remitting MS. If

successful, this clinical trial will lay thegroundwork for a larger, definitive trialthat could lead to a new treatment optionfor women with MS. Its results may alsohave implications for women with otherautoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoidarthritis.

Urgent funding is still needed! OurChapter has made a “rescue” pledge toallow this trial to proceed. The total costof the trial is $4,760,013, and the Society’sHome Office has pledged $667,216toward this goal. The Chapter hascommitted to raise the balance of$4,092,797 to launch this importantstudy. To support this clinical trial, pleasecontact Leon LeBuffe or Kate McIntosh at310.479.4456.

• Although the NMSS estimates that400,000 people have MS, no one knowsfor certain. The NMSS’ newly formed TaskForce on Epidemiology is collaboratingwith the CDC/Agency for Toxic Substancesand Disease Registry to find the feasibilityof tracking chronic diseases in order todetermine precise MS incidence andprevalence, and to identify a possiblecause of MS.

• Members of Promise 2010’s fourNervous System Repair teams met for thefirst time in November to share data andfoster collaborations. Their efforts arepaving the way for clinical trials focusedon protecting the nervous system andrestoring function in people with MS.

• Harvard investigators reported thatindividuals who showed signs ofsignificant exposure to the Epstein-Barrvirus, which causes infectiousmononucleosis and other disorders, weretwice as likely to develop MS up to 20years later. The study adds to previous

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS4

R E S E A R C H

A Momentous Year in MS Research

SPRING2007

Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal5

R E S E A R C H

evidence linking the virus to the risk ofdeveloping MS, but does not prove thatEBV actually causes MS. Other studiessuggest that smoking cigarettes maycontribute to the risk of MS and MSprogression, and that higher vitamin Dintake may help protect againstdeveloping MS.

• For the first time, an internationalpanel of experts developed consensus onproposed definitions of acquiredchildhood neurological disorders,including pediatric MS. This effort shouldhelp doctors make criticaldiagnosis and treatmentdecisions that could eliminatemonths of uncertainty andimprove care of children withthese potentially devastatingdisorders.

• The needs of children whodevelop MS-like symptoms areat the heart of the NMSS’nationwide network of PediatricMS Centers of Excellence, launched earlythis year. These centers will provideoptimal care and support, share resourcesand best practices, and build a frameworkfor research into this patient population,which may also provide clues to adult MS.

• Johns Hopkins researchers reportedthat nerve cells derived frommouseembryonic stem cells that weretransplanted into rats with spinal cordinjury were able to connect with musclesand partially restore function. While thiswork was done in amodel of spinal cordinjury, it has relevance to the potential useof cell replacement to repair damage inMS.

• Two genes that may contribute tomaking a person susceptible to MS havebeen identified by a group of Europeanresearchers known as the “GAMES”Collaborative Group.

• A study by an international teamincluding those funded through theNMSS’ “MS Lesion Project” suggested thata substantial amount of natural repair canoccur to the myelin coating on nervefibers which is damaged by immuneforces in people with MS, not only inthose with the more common relapsingcourse, but also in those with progressivedisease.

• Stanford researchers uncoveredevidence they believe may explain the roleof a protein, osteopontin, in stimulatingrepeated relapses and diseaseprogression. This could lead to newtherapeutic approaches.

Several oral therapies continued toprogress through the MS pipeline:

� A phase II controlled clinical trial oforal fingolimod (FTY720) in 255 peoplewith active, relapsing MS found that upto 77% of those taking fingolimodremained free of relapses over two years;a large phase III trial is now underway.

� Oral cladribine (an immune-modulating drug by Serono), now beingtested in an international Phase 3 clinicaltrial, has been designated by the FDA as a“Fast Track Product,” which shouldexpedite its future review;

� A multicenter, phase II controlledclinical trial of oral BG00012 (an oralfumarate) led to a 69% reduction in activeinflammation on MRI scans in 257people with relapsing-remitting MS;

� In an open-label, 144-weekextension study of oral teriflunomide (anagent that may modulate T cells), thoseon placebo during the original trial whoswitched to teriflunomide experienced upto an 85% decrease in new, active areas ofdisease activity seen on MRI at week 144.

In order to achieve aworld free of multiplesclerosis, we need tobetter understand the

promise and challenges ofMS with stem cell research.In January, the NationalMS Society and MSInternational Federationhosted a stem cell summitin San Francisco andinvited a team of theworld’s leading experts inthe field to collaborateand share their special expertise. Throughthis summit, we sought to betterunderstand the promise of stem cellresearch in multiple sclerosis and map outnext steps to ensure all meaningfulavenues of MS research are pursued.

While this summit was structured for asmall number of participants in thescientific community, the Society posted aspecial podcast series that addresses the

topics covered along with a brief summaryof each day’s discussions. The series, nowarchived on our Web site, is hosted bySociety Board Chair Weyman Johnson,who lives with MS.

Log on to www.nationalMSsociety.orgto listen and learn more about stem cellsand MS.

Stem cells & MS — Today andTomorrow

Overview: Stem cells & MS—whatpromise do they hold? —Dr. Jack Antel,McGill University, interviewed by Board ChairWeyman Johnson

Embryonic stem cells & MS research—Dr. Doug Kerr, Johns Hopkins University,interviewed by Weyman Johnson

Adult stem cells & MS research —Dr.Jeff Kocsis, Yale University, interviewed byWeyman Johnson

Living with MS and the potential ofstem cell research — Society Board ChairWeyman Johnson interviewed by RickSommers Steinhaus.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS6

A D V O C A C Y

Stem Cell Summit

MS Action Network

SPRING2007

WeymanJohnson

The Society believes that allpromising avenues that couldlead to the cure or prevention ofMS or relieve its most

devastating symptoms by repairing MSdamage must be explored — includingexpanding the number of approvedembryonic stem cell lines that areavailable for federally funded research. Tohelp remedy the current federal policy, theSociety supports the Stem Cell ResearchEnhancement Act (H.R. 3 and S. 5). Thelegislation allows new stem cell lines to begenerated from embryos that have been

donated for research purposes by peopleusing the services of in vitro fertilizationclinics, while establishing importantethical protections

As we go to print with this newsletter,the House of Representatives passed H.R.3, and the Senate is expected to vote onthe bill within a few weeks. Stay on top ofthis issue and the many policy issues ofthe new 110th Congress that may impactpeople living with multiple sclerosis.

Be An Activist For People With MSSign up now to become a member of

continued on page 7

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal7

A D V O C A C Y

It can only take aminute to make adifference in the livesof people with

multiple sclerosis — simplysign your name. TheNational MS Society haslaunched an aggressivepetition drive to increasefunding for MS researchand needs the MScommunity to get involvednow.

The petition has hadtremendous support so farbut still needs your help toreach the goal of at least200,000 signatures by February 2007. Allsignatures will be used to help support asignificant increase in federal funding forMS research when MS activists take thepetition to Capitol Hill in March.

More federal research funding isneeded to understand the cause of MS,drive the development of new treatmentsfor those living with the disease, andultimately help find a cure. The success ofthis petition will help move us closer to aworld free of MS.

We are in the final stretch of the MSresearch petition drive and need your helpto add as many signatures as we can. Tosign the petition or forward it to a friend,visit:www.nationalmssociety.org/advocacy.For more details on local progress of thepetition drive or to find out how you canget involved in collecting signatures, visithttp://msactivist.blogspot.com or call theSouthern California Chapter at310.479.4456.

Sign the Petition to Cure MS

the MS Action Network. When you jointhe Network:

• The National MS Society will look toyou to serve as an activist for the interestsof people with MS.

• We will arm you with theinformation and tools you need to fullyunderstand the issues, our policypositions, and the best ways to act onthem.

• We will send you an MS Action Alertwhen an important issue or piece oflegislation calls for your immediateaction.

• We will send you our monthlyFederal Focus on Advocacy newsletter—an update on activism successes, timelylegislation, and emerging issues.

Join today atwww.nationalmssociety.org/advocacy!

continued from page 6

Thanks to the generosity of the following donors, The Golden Circle raised over $1,090,000.ANGEL ($50,000+)

Anonymous • Shirley and Burt Harris Family Foundation • Tuffli Family Foundation

BENEFACTOR ($25,000-$49,999)Anonymous • Wendy & Joel Bennett • Edward H. Taran

PATRON ($10,000-$24,999)Anonymous (2) • Baseline Consulting Group, Inc. • Donna M. & Dr. Walter F. Bauer • Helen Bolsky • Monica & Jim Carder • Julie

A. and John Curtiss • Frankie A. & John A. Duran and Family • Geri & Franz K. Fleischli • Judy & Roy Glickman • Kevin Goetz, The

Rhoda Goetz Foundation, Inc. • Melanie Grisanti & Gordon McLeod • Diane & Michael Herbs, Ken-An Investment Corp. • Lisa &

Ray Karpe • Julie Kaufer & Frank Reddick • Stephen L. Kaufer • Sharon A. & Herbert A. Lampert • Michael J. Lichner • Joyce &

Fred Lukas • Iris B. Mahoney • Nancy Mauro • Phi Alpha Kappa • Claudette Nevins & Benjamin L. Pick • Fern & Bob Seizer • Team

Taxe • Jane & Lester Trachman Family • Frederick R. Weisman Philanthropic Foundation

SPONSOR ($5,000-$9,999)Anonymous (2) • John Brenner, Cutting Edge Supply Company • The Corgel Family • Laura DeBonis & Scott Nathan • Linda Ellman

& Gary Mandinach • Julie & Barry Engelman • Donna Garber • Steffanie & Geoffrey Gee • Phyllis & Bill Gibson • Ann & David E.

Gooding • Bruce Hecker, Bruce’s Gourmet Catering • Charlotte Hughes & Christopher Combs • Pat & Jake Jacobs • Charlotte B.

& S. Lawrence Jacobs • Tatiana & Todd S. James • Jaquish & Kenninger Foundation • Marca Kaufer • Tracy & Michael Kerkorian

• Jacquie M. & Paul M. Mahoney • Sue & Ed Meltzer • Oarsmen Foundation • Overton Moore Properties • Faith Pearlman, Jerome

and Faith Pearlman Foundation • Gail & Hail Pekelis • Mr. and Mrs. Barry K. Schwartz • Joan & Arnold Seidel, The Schlum

Charitable Trust • Mace Siegel • Ruth Lynn & Hank Sobel • Louise Laraway Teal Foundation • Dina Tecimer & Masood Sohaili •

Janice & Timur Tecimer • Linda & Dennis H. Vaughn • Jane Lee & Larry Winter • Pamela M. Woods & Kirk A. Pasich

FRIEND ($2,500-$4,999)Rhona Bader • Claudia Barski & Peter J. Carian • Joanne K. Beckwith • Elaine & John V. Bock, Jr. • Vicki & Robert Bond • Louis L.

Borick, The Louis L. Borick Foundation • Barbara & Morton Bowman • Camilla J. and Arnold W. Bramlett • Pearl Anne & Melvin

Brooks • Laurel & Robert M. Ehrlich • Sandra & Bernard Fischbach • Julie K. Friedman • Shirley & Hubert Friedman • Mary Ann

Good • Arlene &RichardW.Havel • Cathrine Ireland • Sieny &Dr. Alex Krammer • Julena Lind & Leon LeBuffe • Cynthia andMichael

Malone • Ted Mandinach • Eugenia Riordan Mulé & John Mulé • Robert B. Reingold • Eva Rose & Eugene Safan • Alison & Larry

A. Rosenthal • Philip S. Ryan, M.D. • Sheri & Steven Safan • Dorothy & Charles B. Samuel • Irene V. Steinman • Karin B. & Steven

Stoller • Claudette L. & Henry L. Taylor • James S. Tyre • Sylvia Weisz • Diana & Chet A. Widom

MEMBER ($1,000-$2,499)Anonymous • LaVilla S. & Dean H. Adamson, Wilbur C. Grosse Trust • Pamela T. & Paul H. Apel • Betsy & Harold Applebaum •

Tamra & Rick Baldini • John W. Bartlett • Tracy Bechtold-Gach & Robert J. Gach • Donna Benaroya, Donna Benaroya Foundation

Hilda & Dan Bergher • Frieda & Alan E. Berlin • Ritt A. Berry • Kathryn & Dr. J. Alan Bloore • Nancy & Sandy Bresler • Martha J. &

Leonard J. Brutocao, Brutoco Engineering & Construction, Inc. • Debbie & James Burrows • Joseph A. Carbone • Judy Carroll

Stephen C. Carroll • Mr. and Mrs. Aaron C. Clark • Gerie P. Coombs • Anita L. DeFrantz • Janelle Del Carlo & Keith Brant • Kerry

A. Dolan • Theodora C. Poloynis-Engen & Frederick L. Engen • Dorothy Factor, Dorothy & Sidney Factor Fund • Michelle Webb

Fandrich • Vashti A. Fernandez • Gloria & Stanley Fishfader • Edith & Arthur Furst • Sharlene & Sol F. Galper • Dr. Barbara Giesser

& Dr. Philip Konof • Julie Gilbert & Aaron Sones • Richard Gleitman • Rose & Jeff Glikman • Enid & Shelly Goldman • Judy & David

M. Goldstein • Jane & Stephen Goodall, Goodall Family Charitable Foundation • Edith M. Grady • Susan Ann & Ronald G. Graves

Karen L. Green • Sherri & Gary Haber • John Hall • Harris Family Foundation • Fred N. Hellmann • Elise Herlihy • Linda G. & Roger

H. Howard • Susan M. Howard • Elaine Smith Irell, Lawrence E. and Elaine Smith Irell Foundation • Karen G. & Donald E. Karl •

Roberta & Bart D. Kaufman • Nicole Grace & Bill Keck • Morton Kirshner • Terry & James Knell • Sara & Jon Kutler • Elizabeth D.

and Bradley LaCour • Diane S. Lake • Maria & Howard Lapides • Frances F. & Jerry G. Leigh • Ernest Lieblich, The Ernest Lieblich

Foundation • Dianne & Jim Lonergan • Joanne & Bruce MacCallum • Mahoney & Soll, LLP • David Maltzman • Rusty & Elliott

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS8

T H E G O L D E N C I R C L E

The 2006 Golden Circle

SPRING2007

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal9

T H E G O L D E N C I R C L E

Maltzman • Candice & Gregg A. Mandinach • Laura & James Maslon • Frances Louise Mayo • Sheryl Miller & Robert Schilling •

Lee & Stanley Mills • Ann Moorefield, Moorefield Construction, Inc. • Jody Moss • Jioia G. & Samuel Nelson • Leslie J. & Ronald

W. Niedringhaus • Barbara A. & Paul T. Norton • Michael C. Palmer • Cassidy L. & Matthew J. Park • Dr. Ian D. Pasch • Nancy &

David Perren • Heather & Scott Perren • Pratt Trucking • Josephine Preisner • Wendy & Scott Rancine • Karen Randall • Jo-An &

Joel H. Ravitz • Carole J. and Doug Rawson • Karen L. & Graham A. Ritchie • Ralph S. Roberts • R.J. Romero, Oremor

Management & Investment Co. • Pam & Mark Rubin • Fred R. Salisbury • Kay R. & Dr. Loren E. Sanchez • Britta J. & Arthur E.

Schramm • Mildred & Sherwood Schwartz • The Seattle Foundation • Madeleine & Tom Sherak • Lauren Siegel • Suzanne &

Robert Siegel • Sinder Family Foundation • Jane & Doug Smith • Arleen Sorkin & Christopher Lloyd • Linda & Mark Spiegel • Janis

& Jeff Susskind • Jessie Anne Tait • Wilmuth S. Tannahill • Jayne & Kelly Tien • Evelyn S. & Jeffrey M. Tolin • Jan & Christopher

Turner • Twenty-Nine Palms Band of Mission Indians • Jeanne Usonis • Lorna & Dr. Shelby Wagner • Jody Needle Waterman &

Jack Waterman • Janet & Congressman Henry A. Waxman • Julia C. & Roy Weinstein • Susan & Bill Weintraub • Doris Weitz &

Judge Alexander Williams • Bradley Whitford • Carnie Wilson & Rob Bonfiglio • Susan H. & Philip T. Winik • Ella Zarky

The Golden Circle also wishes to acknowledge the donors who contributed toThe 2006 Golden Circle campaign with gifts up to $999 — thank you!

On October 30, 2006, TheGolden Circle held areception at the beautifuland stately California Club

in downtown Los Angeles. Sixty-fiveguests gathered to learn fromesteemed researcher Ian D. Duncanfrom the University of Wisconsin,Madison. He leads one of fourcollaborative investigations targetingnervous system repair and protection,funded with a grant from the NationalMS Society's Promise 2010 campaign.

Dr. Duncan, who was awarded$3.4 million (out of a total of $15.6million for the nervous system repairand protectioninitiative),discussed howhis team isapplying cutting-edgetechnologies inan effort to repairdamage to nervefibers in thespinal cord. Tothis end, the team

of highlyrespected andproductiveinvestigatorsfrom manyfields ofexpertisefocuses ondevelopingbetter imagingtechnologies tovisualize myelin and nerve fiberdamage, to detect its repair, and toexplore repair cell transplantationtechniques.

Dr. Duncan and his researchinspired all of the guests inattendance. During the event, and thedays following, several familiespledged nearly $100,000 in support ofPromise 2010 — joining a host ofothers who have previouslycommitted their support.

The Golden Circle extends itsdeepest gratitude to Martha and DonTuffli for hosting and underwritingthe cost of this wonderful reception.

Martha & Don Tuffli

Jessica Taxe Revlin& Scott Revlin

The U.S. House of Representativeshas its first female Speaker andthe Southern California Chapterof the National MS Society has

its first female Chair. InDecember, Julie Kaufer,Esq. became the firstwoman to chair theChapter’s Board of Trusteesin its 60-year history.

Julie is exceptionally wellprepared for this importantposition — she started as avolunteer at a very early age.Her mother was diagnosedwith MS shortly after heryounger sister was born,though she had been livingwith the symptoms of MSfor years before. At the time,there were no treatmentsavailable for MS. Julie’smom succumbed to the disease after along, difficult battle. Julie, her father andsiblings adopted a personal mission tofund the best MS research for theadvancement of treatment options andultimately the cure. Together, the Kauferfamily began fund raising and participatedin the Chapter’s MS Walk, the MS BikeTour and Dinner of Champions.

Julie follows the footsteps of herrevered father, Al Kaufer. Al was a memberof the National Board of Directors, servedas a Chapter trustee for three decades andas Chair in 1987-1988. He gavegenerously of his time and funds and werecently remembered his legacy ofvolunteerism and philanthropy with the2006 Norman Cohn Hope Award. When

Julie joined the Board in 1996, shejumped into an active fund-raising role.She currently co-chairs a premier Chapterfund raising campaign — The Golden

Circle. The Golden Circlehas raised over $3 millionunder her leadershipduring the last three years.

Julie accepted the gavelfrom Dave Perren, whoskillfully chaired theChapter Board for the pastthree pivotal years. Dave,most recently and notably,provided leadership in themerger with ChannelIslands. Julie is proud tohead the Chapter duringthis next significant periodin the history of theNational MS Society. Sheexplains, “We have done

so much already to accelerate research andimprove services for people with MS andtheir families, and we continue to propelourselves forward each year to a greatdegree.” She refers to the Society’s criticalPromise 2010 research campaign as anexample. In 2005 the organization made adaring promise to raise $30 million by2010, over and above its annual researchcommitment of $40 million, to supporttargeted areas of MS research thatscientists believe are crucial to acceleratingprogress toward a cure and improvingquality of life. Julie continues, “Thesnowball effect that I’ve seen with Promise2010 is so motivating. The community isresponding so generously to the fund-raising challenge.”

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS10

C H A P T E R N E W S

First Female Chair

SPRING2007

Dave Perren & Julie Kaufer

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal11

C H A P T E R N E W S

Last year, our inaugural MSAwareness Week focused onwhat it means to live with MS.We issued the challenge to

“Come face to face with multiplesclerosis.” We launched a new Web site,faceofms.org, which offers anopportunity for anyone impacted by MSto tell their story and to hear the storiesof others. It’s still going strong.

This year, we’re building on our goodstart. Mark your calendars: MS AwarenessWeek is March 5–11, 2007.

2007 is a pivotal year. Our strategicresponse to the problem of MS —developed by all levels of the Societyduring 2006 — calls for us to be bold,relevant, inclusive, transparent, andengaging. We are launching an entirelynew MS brand (see cover story) — a newlogo, new colors, a new central Website,and most importantly, a whole new wayof talking about MS and the work we cando together.

We need the wider world tounderstand what it means to live withMS. MS robs people of the ability tomove easily, whether from one place toanother or from one thought to another,or to move ahead with their lives as theyexpected to do. While the Society worksto end MS, we also work to help peoplemove ahead again. The new rallying crysays this in a simple and powerful way:MS stops people from moving. Weexist to make sure it doesn’t.

We are asking everyone to “Join themovement!” Every hour someone isnewly diagnosed with MS. During MS

Awareness Week (and beyond) what canyou do in an hour, a day, a week, tomove forward the lives of those livingwith MS?

� Tell 10 people you know that MSAwareness Week is March 5—11. Askthem to tell 10 people they know.

� Visit faceofms.org. If you haven’tadded your story, do it now!

� Donate! Make a gift online, byphone or by mail. Join The GoldenCircle. Sponsor an event participant.

� Participate! Register yourself for theMS Walk and start fund raising. Or signup for the Start to Finish MS Bike Tourand begin training. Visitwww.msevents.com.

� Recruit! Organize a team toparticipate in one of our special events.

� Spread the Word! Put an MSAwareness Week html button on youremail signature, your MySpace page oryour company Website. (Buttons andWeb banners are available online atwww.nationalMSsociety.org.)

� Volunteer! Visit someone with MSin a skilled nursing facility. Call310.479.4456 for information andtraining.

� Advocate! Sign the petition toincrease federal funding for MS research.Join the Action Network — contactgovernment officials about an issueimportant to people with MS—or call usto find out what MS activists are doingin this Chapter.

� Network! Explore our affiliated self-help groups, committees andeducational programs.

MS Awareness Week 2007: Join the movement!

Join Us — Let’s Move!

Each year thousands of SouthernCalifornians participate in theMS Walk and raise millions ofdollars to ensure a future without

MS. Here are three great reasons why YOUshould join the 2007 MSWalk:

1. Your support makes a realdifference in the lives of the 12,500people who live with MS in theSouthern California Chapter’seight-county territory.

� 78 cents out of every dollar you raisedirectly supports local programs andservices for those touched by MS,and worldwide research that willlead to better treatments for MS andbring us closer to a cure.

� By participating in the MS Walk youbring awareness of a disease thataffects 400,000 Americans and 2.5million people worldwide.

2. It’s good for you!� The MS Walk encompasses morethan just walking. Each MSWalk siteis fully accessible. So, whether youskip, hop, motor, push or just raisemoney you are doing somethinggood for yourself.

� A little morning spring air is goodfor the soul!

3. F-U-N!� For your MS Walk efforts you arehandsomely rewarded with a finishfestival for the whole family. Enjoy adelicious lunch, games andentertainment!

The MS Walk brings together peoplewho want to do something about MSNOW. Together, we can make adifference—we can change the future by

acting today. Join the MS Walk today atwww.msevents.com or give us a call at1.800.FIGHT.MS.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS12

S P E C I A L E V E N T S SPRING2007

Saturday, March 31, 2007• Bakersfield, Yokuts Park

Saturday, April 14, 2007• Desert Cities, Palm Desert Civic CenterPark

• Lancaster, Lancaster Marketplace• Redlands, Smiley Park• Santa Barbara, Leadbetter Beach• Simi Valley, Rancho Tapo Park

Sunday, April 15, 2007• Upland, Upland High School

Saturday, April 21, 2007• Big Bear, Alpine Pedal Path• Temecula, Temecula City Hall Complex,Business Park Drive

Sunday, April 22, 2007• Greater Los Angeles, Pasadena Rose Bowl• San Luis Obispo, Mission Park

2007dates

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal13

S P E C I A L E V E N T S

Once you walk with a Team,you won’t walk alone again!

K ristine Mulleneaux was 29years old when she wasdiagnosed with MS five yearsago. A month later, she saw an

advertisement at the movies for the MSWalk, and registered for the event thatnight. Upon arriving at the LA ColiseumKristine was inspired by the number ofpeople participating and by a feeling ofbelonging. She explains, “I loved howfriends and families came together…I feltan overwhelming support from everyonethere.”

When Kristine and her mom Loisnoticed a large number of teams wearingthe same t-shirts or hats, they decided tocreate Team Krissy. The team started thefollowing year with 12 family membersand friends, and three years later hastripled in size. Team Krissy uses aninclusive approach to recruitment andfund raising. Every year they send lettersto everyone they know, and include acalendar with the team picture. Lois feels

that the calendar is a successful tool inrecruiting members, inspiring others tojoin in and support Kristine and the team.Krissy and Lois enjoy sharing theexcitement of the MS Walk with lovedones.

Team up with friends, family or co-workers and have a great time outdoorswhile joining a great cause. Fund raising iseasier with the support of a team; workwith friends, family and co-workers to setgoals, develop creative ways to achievethem, and put ideas into action. Teamsare a great way to meet new people, bringco-workers and those you care aboutcloser together, and develop friendshipsthat can last a lifetime.

Team MS

Team Krissy

The 2007 MS Walk is generously sponsored by...

The 2006 Santa Barbara MS 150Bike Tour and Fest was a terrificsuccess, with over 400 cyclistsraising more than $430,000 to

support MS research and programs. Theweekend was complete with tremendouscamaraderie, great support, beautifulweather and a fantastic, scenic ride.

But don’t just take our word for it,here’s what cyclists told us they liked bestabout the ride:

"I have never done any of these ridesbefore. So the experience was new andexciting. It was fun to meet differentpeople out there for the same cause. It wasfun to work toward riding in the race andraising money for it."

"Very organized. Friendly people. Verysupportive. Beautiful route."

"Knowing that by riding I was making adifference in someone's life. We also rodeby a woman who was jogging, whothanked us because she has MS."

Many thanks to all ofthe cyclists whoparticipated, especiallytop fund-raiser TeviaCelli who personallyraised over $35,000 andwhose team “Body &Soul Workout” raisedover $90,000! Thankyou also to our majorsponsors Venoco, Inc.and La Salsa.

Wheels are always spinning and we arealready gearing up for the 2007 event. TheStart to Finish MS Bike Tour will takeplace October 20 & 21, 2007. We offerrides (including our signature 150) and

route options tosatisfy many levels ofcyclists. Ride as far asyou can— challengeyourself — but youwon’t have to do italone. Cyclists willenjoy hearty meals,fully stocked reststops every 10 to 12 miles, and excellentSAG and medical support.

This year’s new route will take you onan unforgettable journey beginningSaturday in Camarillo and traveling norththrough beautiful Ojai Valley. Day oneends at Leadbetter Beach in breathtakingSanta Barbara. There riders will celebratetheir accomplishments with friends andfamily at a festival that includes terrificfood, entertainment and a beer garden.On Sunday, cyclists will begin back on thebeach and continue south along theocean with spectacular views as ridersreturn through the strawberry fields ofOxnard to Camarillo.

It really doesn’t matter where you start,because we all share a common finish. So,let’s ride…and together we can Start toFinish MS.

Register now at www.msevents.com orcall 310.479.4456 to get started.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS14

S P E C I A L E V E N T S

Start to Finish MS

SPRING2007

Tevia Celli

Actors Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson andShemar Moore from CBS’ hit show CriminalMinds led their teammates across the finish line

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal15

S P E C I A L E V E N T S

We lead hectic lives.Whether managing afamily, a smallbusiness, or the daily

challenges of living with multiplesclerosis, we are often faced withmoments whenour strength andcourage are putto the test.

Celebrateyour innerstrength at the2007 MSChallenge Walkon September7–9. From Carlsbadto San Diego,hundreds of womenand men willchallenge themselvesboth personally andphilanthropically asthey walk 3 days, and50 miles closer to a

cure for MS. You willcross the finish line witha tremendous sense ofpersonal accomplishmentand satisfaction inknowing you have madea difference in the lives ofeveryone touched by MS.

This fully supported event offerseverything from rest stops every 2 milesand a host of dedicated volunteers to

fantastic hotelaccommodations andmassage therapists topamper you. Whetheryou’re walking foryourself, in honor of aloved one, or areexcited by the personalchallenge, this is your

chance to celebrate. This is why wewalk. Register today atwww.msevents.com or call MichelleReid at (310) 479.4456 or1.800. FIGHT MS.

A Celebration of Strength

Someone with MS may play golf one day,and the next not even be able to lift a club.One round of golf can make a difference!

Monday, September 10, 2007Robinson Ranch Golf Club, Santa Clarita, CA

Join us for the 14th Annual MS Golf Classic. Enjoy a fantastic day of golfon a scenic course, delicious meals, a variety of fun and challenging contests,

silent and live auctions and opportunities for prizes and awards.Tournament proceeds support MS research and Chapter programs and services.

Register today! Visit www.msevents.com or call 1.800.FIGHT.MS or 661.945.9111.

Many companies offer specialdiscounts to friends of theNational MS Society and/ordonate a portion of their sales

to our Chapter. Check out these fun, easyand rewarding ways to save yourselfmoney, while you earn for the MS Society.

Support While You Shop!Now there are 2 great ways you can

support the National MS Society SouthernCalifornia Chapter, simply whileshopping for groceries! Every time you useyour Ralphs Club Card or AlbertsonsPreferred Savings Card at checkout, eachstore will contribute up to 4% of yourpurchase to our Chapter. Follow theseeasy steps to enroll your Ralphs orAlbertsons cards and begin supporting theNational MS Society while you shop!

Ralphs Customers:1. Visit www.ralphs.com2. Click on the “CommunityContribution” link on the leftmenu on the home page

3. Click on “Sign Up” in theParticipant box

4. Complete the online enrollment

Albertsons Customers:1. Visit www.albertsons.com2. Click on the “In theCommunity” tab on the bottommenu for the CommunityPartners link

3. Click on “Shoppers” to accessthe enrollment form

4. Enter your card number and“National Multiple SclerosisSociety” in the search category

5. Follow the instructions tocomplete the process

If you don’t have a Ralphs orAlbertsons card, ask for one the next timeyou shop. If you have any questionscontact Michelle Reid at 310.479.4456.

Got Body will give5% of each purchase tothe MS Society and giveyou a 5% discount aswell. Got Body offers thousands of brandname products 20%-50% off retail prices.From yoga mats to natural skin care torunning accessories, GotBody.com hasyou covered inside and out. Simply visitwww.gotbody.com, add any product tothe cart, and enter coupon code LANMSSat check out to receive the discount.

Hilton HHonors —Redeem yourHilton HHonors points to support theNational MS Society. Help move ustoward a world free of MS. HHonorspoints may be donated in increments of10,000, with each 10,000 HHonors pointdonation equaling a $25 donation.Send an email toHHonors_Giving_Back@hilton.comdetailing the number of points you'd liketo redeem and include your name,address, and Hilton HHonors accountnumber, and REQUEST REWARD CODEGBNMS. You will receive an email toconfirm your request. Or call the HiltonReservations and Customer Care centerand REQUEST REWARD CODE GBNMS.

The National Multiple Sclerosis Societydoes not endorse products, services ormanufacturers. Such names appear here solelybecause they are considered valuableinformation. The Society assumes no liabilityfor the use or contents of any product orservice mentioned.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS16

F U N D R A I S I N G

Deals, Discounts & Donations

SPRING2007

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal17

F U N D R A I S I N G

Thoughtful Party FavorsOur very popular wedding/special

occasion place setting cards are the perfectsolution for your next party or socialgathering! These thoughtful favors honoryour guests and make a difference in thefight against MS. For your minimumdonation of $2.50 per card, the Societywill provide you with beautiful foldedcards to put at each guest’s place setting.These lovely white cards measure 2 incheshigh and 3 inches wide and feature theSociety’s logo. There are two varieties ofcards to choose from— either embossedor raised silver ink. The inside of bothcards is printed in black and reads, “Onthis special occasion, a donation has beenmade to the National MS Society,Southern California Chapter in yourhonor.” The back of each card, which isalso printed in black, features the Society’smission statement and website.

Tribute and Memorial CardsThe Society’s Tribute and Memorial

card program has long been the answer tothe question, “How can I meaningfullyhonor or remember a loved one?” You cancommemorate a loved one’s life, birthday,anniversary, wedding, graduation or newarrival with a gift to the Society and makea difference in the fight against multiplesclerosis. In return, the Society will send abeautiful, personalized card to thehonoree(s) you designate informing themthat a gift has been made to the Society inhonor or memory of the special person oroccasion. Gifts can be made via phone orour website atwww.nationalmssociety.org/cal. Whileonline, you can view the four differentTribute and Memorial cards available forpurchase and the most recent Tribute andMemorial listing.

Show Someone You Care

If you have questions, would like to see samples or are interested in purchasing theSociety’s wedding/special occasion place setting cards or Tribute or Memorial cards,please feel free to contact Elicia Lopez, Development Coordinator at 310.479.4456 ext.111 or e-mail: elicia.lopez@cal.nmss.org.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS18

S O C I E T Y N E W S SPRING2007

Give a gift that will keep ongiving! The SouthernCalifornia Chapter’sScholarship Program aims to

change the future of MS, one student at atime, through post-secondary education.Your gift of $1,000 to $3,000 designatedto this special financial assistance programwill help an individual whose life hasbeen dramatically affected by multiplesclerosis to reach his or her potential.

Please contact Sheryl Miller at310.479.4456 ext. 122 orsheryl.miller@cal.nmss.org to learn moreabout this meaningful gift opportunity.

Support a Scholar Make a Difference,without leaving your desk

It’s quick and easy. For more

information on how to contribute

to the Southern California Chapter

through your workplace’s employee

giving campaign (United Way, Combined

Federal Campaign, Community Health

Charities, etc.), please check with your

employer’s human resources department

or visit the Chapter’s web site at

www.nationalmssociety.org/cal., click

Donate and Giving at Work.

the challenges of living with MS, enablingeach person whose life is affected to stayconnected to the worldand move their livesforward. Put simply...

MS stops people frommoving. We exist tomake sure it doesn’t.

Thanks to everyoneat Wieden + Kennedy,you’ll be noticing a shiftin how the Societylooks and talks aboutitself and the disease.One of the first thingsyou’ll notice is our newlogo. The new logoclearly identifies the Society and celebratesmovement and personal expression. Thecolor is a warm orange, which createsurgency and stands out in a marketplace

where so many other colors represent somany other things. Through research weknow also know that orange is optimistic,

contemporary andcutting edge. It’s also acolor that people withMS find highly readableand can become asymbol for MS aroundthe world.

We will transitionfrom our old identity toour new one over timeto maximize leverage ofour brand, whileminimizing costs andimpact to theorganization.

We are askingeveryone to “Join the Movement.” Formore information, or to join up, visitnationalmssociety.org or call1.800.FIGHT.MS.

continued from page 1

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal19

P R O G R A M S

New Center for Optimal Living with MS Opens its Doors

In October, Rancho Los AmigosNational Rehabilitation Center(Rancho) became the newestlocation offering an exciting new

wellness-based day program designed topromote health andenhance the overallquality of life for thoseliving with MS. Thanks toa generous grant from theFlora L. ThorntonFoundation, the EricSmall Center forOptimal Living with MSopened its doors toparticipants from the SanGabriel Valley, LosAngeles and South Bay communities.

Center members attend one day eachweek to explore a new approach tohealthy living with MS — staying fit,having fun and working on personalgoals that optimize their physical andemotional health and wellbeing.Activities that includephysical therapy, adaptiveexercise (yoga, strengthtraining, dance), arttherapy, memoryenhancement, groupsupport, recreation andMS education fill theirdays on Thursdays from9:30 am – 3:00 pm.Miranda Mirsec, Directorof Health and Wellness with the Chapter,works with each member to customizeactivities to meet their personal goals andget the most out of their weeklyexperience.

The program represents a new

collaborative relationship with LosAmigos Research and EducationInstitute (LAREI) at Rancho and wasmodeled after the popular REACH toAchieve program that takes place daily at

the Marilyn Hilton MSAchievement Center atUCLA which has helpedover 175 peoplemaximize their ability tolive well with MS.Beyond the wellnessprogram at the Center,participants will learnmore about uniqueresources available atRancho including home

adaptation, adaptive computer services,wheelchair seating clinics, dental clinicsand much more!

“This could be the best thing someonecan do for him/herself each week,” saysMiranda Mirsec, Center director. “There’sreally a sense of community — everyone

understands what it’s liketo live with multiplesclerosis and supportseach other in their effortstoward making personalchanges.” She continues,“Plus, the Center’swelcoming environmentprovides a weekly retreatfrom the daily routine.”

Contact MirandaMirsec at 1.800.344.4867 or310.479.4456 to learn more about howyou can join this exciting new program atRancho, to schedule a visit, or to join theCenter’s Open House on March 31, 2007from 10:00 am–12:00 pm.

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS20

F O U N D A T I O N S SPRING2007

The Southern California Chapterextends its sincere gratitude tothe following list of contributorsfor a total of $218,269 received

in foundation, corporate and programgrants October 1–December 31, 2006.

• $75,000 from the Conrad N. HiltonFoundation for the National Long TermCare Caucus

• $25,000 from the Smidt FamilyFoundation for local programs andservices in the Channel Islands region

• $25,000 from the Wood-ClaeyssensFoundation for the Better Living programin Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties

• $20,000 from the Kenneth T. &Eileen L. Norris Foundation for the EricSmall Centers for Optimal Living withMS

• $14,969 from the Change A LifeFoundation for the special needs of twoindividuals with MS

• $14,600 from Teva Neuroscience foran MS family education program

• $10,000 from the OuthwaiteFoundation for the Better Living programin Santa Barbara County

• $6,000 from the Williams-Corbett

Foundation for the Capacity BuildingUpgrade Project for the Channel IslandsField Office

• $5,000 from the OntarioCommunity Foundation for the EricSmall Center for Optimal Living with MSat Casa Colina

• $5,000 from the Swift MemorialHealth Care Foundation for the BetterLiving Program in Ventura County

• $5,000 from The TowbesFoundation for the Promise 2010 ResearchCampaign

• $4,000 from the Lockheed MartinAERO Club for the MS MountainGetaway at Camp Paivika in 2007

• $2,700 from Serono, Inc. for theChapter’s Annual Meeting

• $2,000 from an anonymousfoundation for local programs andservices in Santa Barbara and VenturaCounties

• $2,000 for local programs andservices from the W. M. Keck Foundation

• $2,000 from the Herbert andGertrude Latkin Foundation for theScholarship Program in Santa BarbaraCounty.

Generous Grantmakers

On November 4th, trustee Kevin Goetz held aterrific wine-tasting event that yielded $15,000for the Rhoda Goetz Personal Care Program.This special Chapter fund assists individualswith MS who are faced with financial, logisticalor physical barriers tomaintain healthy personalhygiene and care. For more information aboutaccessing services such as hair, skin and nailcare, please call Miranda Mirsec at1.800.FIGHT.MS or 310.479.4456.

Sharon Stone & Kevin Goetz

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal21

V O L U N T E E R S

The Chapter was proud to acknowledge the contributions of the year’s manyvalued volunteers and organizations at the 2006 Annual Meeting.

Paul Mahoney earned the Frank A. Grisanti Most ValuableTrustee Award for his many varied contributions in the lastseveral years. He and his wife Jacquie have been activemembers of The Golden Circle, supporters of the Dinnerof Champions and fund-raisers in the MS Walk. This yearPaul also lent us his professional experience and legalexpertise. He examined our legal contracts with USC whenwe partnered to launch Optimal Living with MS, andprovided counsel with the legal issues surrounding ourmerger with the Channel Islands Chapter.

Three exceptional individuals —Larry Winter, Larry McEwen and Donna

Dawson —merited Volunteer of the Yearawards. Larry, Larry and Donna wereintegral volunteers in stewarding the

merger with the Channel IslandsChapter, making this transition a smooth

and happy one. Donna helped toreconcile the finances and budgets. Allthree assisted with communications to

the MS community in the tri-county area,and all three became active members of

our newly combined Board.

The Sylvia Lawry Founder Award is given inrecognition of an outstanding new ideathat benefits people with MS. Thanks to agenerous gift from the Flora L. ThorntonFoundation, the Chapter teamed up withUSC’s Departments of Neurology andtop-rated Physical and OccupationalTherapy programs to launch OptimalLiving with MS. This one-of-a-kind 12-week program, part of the Eric SmallCenters for Optimal Living with MS, helpspeople with MS who are experiencingdisruptive, physical changes to take backcontrol of their lives. The program is alsounique in that it is integrated into theeducational curriculum of students inUSC’s graduate-level PT and OT programs.

MVPs

Paul Mahoney & Julie Kaufer

Dave Perren, Larry McEwen, Donna Dawson,Larry Winter and Susan Bradley

Denise Nowack, Drs. Jesus Dominguez & DidiMatthew, PT Chair Dr. Jim Gordon, OT Chair

Dr. Florence Clark, and Leon LeBuffe

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS22

V O L U N T E E R S SPRING2007

Nationwide Developers Diversified Realtysupported a dozen Walks, raised over $80,000 fromtheir vendors and business partners, and supportednumerous local MS initiatives across the country.Locally DDR’s “The Pike” in Long Beach and “PaseoColorado” in Pasadena worked with us all year toraise awareness about MS. The Pike and Paseoreceived Public Awareness Awards for their help inpromoting MS Awareness Week, the MS Walk andthe MS 150 Bike Tour to hundreds of thousands ofshoppers.

Stacy Nonoguchi earned the Special Events Key Award forher tremendous efforts as team captain of MS Achievers,

the Marilyn Hilton MS Achievement Center at UCLA's MSWalk team. With her leadership, teamMS Achievers hasraised over $230,000 in five years. Stacy also participates

in the MS 150 Bike Tour.

Louise’s Trattoria also meriteda Special Events Key Award fortheir generous donation ofdelicious lunches for thousands of MS Walk participants foryears. Louise’s also helps to promote the MS Walk in theirmany restaurant locations and haseven offered coupons to MS Walkparticipants.

John Hall accepted the VolunteerGroup of the Year award on behalf of

Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has not only sponsored the MS Walkfor the last few years, but they have also organized a huge

corporate team, raising much-needed public awareness andfunds to support the fight against MS. In fact Wells Fargo was

our largest team in 2006 with 523teammembers!

Last year, shortly after her diagnosis, Tevia Celli held a spin-a-thon at her spinning studio “Body & Soul Workout” in WestHollywood. The Chapter learned about this event when welater received a check for $78,000! Tevia wasn’t sure how she’dtop that fund-raising effort this year, but she registered for theMS 150 Bike Tour and became our MS 150 spokesperson.Tevia received the Rookie of the Year award for raisingtremendous public awareness and for her fund raising efforts— her team raised over $90,000!

The Pike’s Karla Villatoro, MarniDeckter, and Paseo Colorado’s JodiTaylor Zens & Michael DeLeon

Center member Percenia Beasley& Stacy Nonoguchi

John Hall & Dave Perren

Tevia Celli & Jim Elfline

Louise’s Mark Buckhantzwith Trustee John Hall

Visit our Web site at: www.nationalmssociety.org/cal23

V O L U N T E E R S

Brad DeHaan from Hillcrest Skilled Nursing in LongBeach received the Programs Key Award. Brad is the firstskilled nursing facility administrator in SouthernCalifornia to recognize special needs of a youngerpopulation, the first administrator to set aside beds andprogramming for people with MS, and the first to workwith the Society on a special wing, just for people withMS. Brad wants to set up a model of what long termcare can look like for young people when commitmentis combined with desire and resources.

Abby Wayne earnedthe Peer Support

Volunteer of the Year inrecognition of her

diligence in findingvaluable resources and

providing compassion andongoing emotional support.

Donna Nowland, founder of theOjai/Oakview self help group,received the Self Help Group Leader ofthe Year award. In addition to beingan active, enthusiastic and energetic self help group leader for fiveyears, Donna also captains the Casitas Pass Rest Stop at our BikeTour, serves on our Speaker’s Bureau, and has championed thedisability community’stransportation needs for 20 years inVentura County.

Trustee Donna Dawson presented theYouth Volunteer of the Year award

to Lauren Ormsbee. Last summer,16-year-old Lauren won the

Moorpark Apricot Queen title forraising over $2500 MS research.She received our Chapter awardfor her fund-raising prowess andfor increasing MS awareness in

her community.

Sheri Safan was recognized withthe Development Key Award. Sheri and her husband Steve haveraised over half a million for research through their Recipes forMS Research fund-raising events.

Trustee Cheryl Feldmann& Abby Wayne

Donna Nowland

Lauren Ormsbee & DonnaDawson

Sheri & Steve Safan

Denise Nowack, Brad DeHaan &Audrey Goldman

Toll-Free Number: 1 800 FIGHT MS

Southern California ChapterNational Multiple Sclerosis Society2440 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 115Los Angeles, CA 90064

Raise funds for the National MSSociety by purchasing NissanOpen tickets, valid any day ofthe tournament February 12 –

18, 2007. The Nissan Open is held at thehistoric Riviera Country Club. Tickets areavailable for $15 (a $10 savings), of whichthe Society will keep $13 for each ticketsold.

Join us for MS Awareness Night at theL.A. Clippers game on March 23rd! Showyour support for this great cause as EltonBrand and the Clippers take on theirWestern Conference Rivals, the Utah Jazz.A portion of each ticket purchased will bedonated to the National MS Society.

Contact our office at 310.479.4456 toorder your tickets for either or both ofthese terrific events!

Great Deals forTop Sporting Events

SPRING2007

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDSalt Lake City, UTPermit # 6699

Southern California Chapter2440 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 115Los Angeles, CA 90064310-479-4456, 800-344-4867Channel Islands Field Office14 West Valerio StreetSanta Barbara, CA 93101805-682-8783Inland Empire Field Office5 East Citrus Ave., Suite 107Redlands, CA 92373909-307-3388Coachella Valley Field Office73-710 Fred Waring Dr, Suite 103Palm Desert, CA 92260760-776-5740Antelope Valley &Santa Clarita Valley Field Office,1669 West Avenue J, Suite 309Lancaster, CA 93534661-945-9111Kern County Field Office1800 30th Street, Suite 105Bakersfield, CA 93301661-321-9512

This publication is provided thanks togifts made by donors to the Chapter.