Instead of partaking in weekly pregame rituals this weekend, Penn State students will have a chance to help tackle the no. 1 inherited neurological disorder, Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT).

From 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, renowned glassmaker Christopher Radko will attend a Penn State tailgate at the Bryce Jordan Center to autograph purchases of his signature Joe Paterno ornament to benefit the Charcot-Marie-Tooth Association (CMTA).

Radko, who is known for his European-made glass ornaments, will be signing purchases of "Penn State Football," one of his many college-themed ornaments.

"I'm so psyched to do this," Radko said. "I'm thrilled."

Radko's piece is designed after Paterno, who will be donating the royalties he receives from Radko's ornament to the association.

Paterno currently holds the title of the 2006 campaign spokesman for CMTA.

CMT is a neurological disorder that currently affects 150,000 Americans.

Those with CMT slowly lose the use of their hands, arms, legs and feet due to degeneration in the nerves that control the muscles.

CMT is hereditary, but not life-threatening, according to www.charcot-marie-tooth.org.

George's Floral Boutique, 482 E. College Ave., which was instrumental in bringing Radko to Penn State, became a dealer of Radko's ornaments in 1993, after Mitch Ballas, co-owner of George's Floral Boutique, saw his ornaments in New York.

"I love them and I respect them very much. They lend a permanency to the holiday and occasion they are truly meant to represent," Ballas said.

This is not the first time Ballas and Paterno have worked together.

Paterno, who was unavailable for comment, has donated his royalties to charitable causes numerous times before.

"He was thrilled with the idea that the royalties were going to be going to CMTA," Ballas said of Paterno.

Radko shared much of the same sentiments, hoping that his ornaments "help to make a difference" in the lives of others.

"I think it's for a good cause," Radko said.

CMTA Executive Director Charles Hagins will also be at the tailgate festivities to talk about CMT and answer questions.

"I think it's incredible," Hagins said of Paterno's generosity.

CMTA will be putting the royalties received towards "awareness and education" of CMT.

"We are overwhelmed with the type of recognition he is bringing to our association," Hagins said. "It's been phenomenal."

This is the second Radko ornament Paterno has been associated with.

The first was "Pigskin Penn State" in 2000. "Penn State Football" is exclusive to George's Floral Boutique and will be out of production after this year.