Many discovering the joy of a night out that benefits us all The Fulton Chain region is blessed with many quality restaurants, one of which is Billy’s in Old Forge.
Besides his fine food, Billy has become known for his help to local charities. Over the past couple years he has designated special nights—usually off-season Thursdays and some Mondays—for “not for profit” fundraising.
On those nights, Billy takes twenty percent of the restaurant’s gross dinner receipts and directs it to a specific organization as a donation.
This includes both sit-down meals and take-outs.
To date, thousands of dollars have been raised thanks to the support of Billy and locals in the community. It’s a great win/win.I remarked to Joanne Maly recently on the coincidence of Billy supporting charities that also happen to be personal favorites of mine. “Billy supports EVERY local charity,” she responded in a dry tone that translated clearly to “Duh.”
I do know the list is long and recent beneficiaries have included the Polar Bear Ski Club, the Old Forge Fire Department, and the Town of Webb Historical Society.
Another, which benefited on Thursday, February 16, was MAC’s Safe Ride, a not-for-profit that offers sure-handed transportation to those needing to get home and deciding wisely to play it safe.
MAC’s was formed in remembrance of two local young men (Matt Girouard and Craig Sears) killed in a car accident two-and-a-half years ago.
The MAC’s van operates weekends during busy seasons and nightly in summer.
My wife Valerie also happens to be a director on the group’s volunteer Board.
Billy’s charity brainchild has enabled me to not only treat my much-deserving wife to a night out, but also helps create a warm feeling in helping out MAC and other worthy causes—depending on which Thursday we
attend.
On the recent MAC night, Val took the opportunity to “invite” our 17-year-old (“It’s for MAC, you’ll BE there!”). God forbid he would be seen in public with his parents.
Oh, how times have changed. When I was 17, if I heard “restaurant,” “dinner” and “my treat” in the same sentence, I’d be warming up the car. In that respect, I haven’t changed much.
I would be remiss in not mentioning the wait staff. Experienced, courteous, proficient, they allow for a truly nice evening.
So, thank you Billy.
Upcoming beneficiaries include Town of Webb Community Scholarship Fund, Community Transportation Service, Herkimer County Humane Society, and T.H.E. Loop Motorcycle Ride for Breast Cancer.
Just a thought.
