The Third Annual Billy Mac Bash raised more than $15,000 as hundreds gathered to remember Billy McCarthy and contribute to a scholarship in his name.
The first fundraiser was held shortly after the passing of Billy, who is the son of North Shore Towers Country Club staff member Patti McCarthy. Since he was a student at SUNY Maritime at the time of his death, the family decided to start a scholarship in his name at the school.
“I wanted to be able to keep Billy’s name and spirit alive and by creating this scholarship we do just that,” Patti McCarthy said. “At the same time, we get to help young men and women pay for their college education. In doing the fundraiser every year, we can set aside that time to remember Billy in a special way.”
The two-part fundraiser began on Saturday, October 24 with a party held at Towers on the Green. There were 173 people in attendance. While dancing through the night, money was raised through raffle items and a 50/50.
Music was provided by DJ Rick Rocha, who donated his time free of charge. McCarthy also noted the generosity of Aaronballoons.com. Although they did not know the McCarthy family, when they heard what the balloons were for they also donated them.
There were two major sponsors – the Ebstell Corporation and Phillip Van Heusen. Both donated $500 to the scholarship fund. Van Heusen also donated T-shirts for the golf outing.
During the party, McCarthy announced that the second recipient of the Billy Mac Scholarship was Vincent Pistone, a resident of Floral Park who is a cadet at SUNY Maritime.
“I’m very excited that it’s somebody we know, somebody who deserves it,” McCarthy said. Speaking to Pistone, she added, “You’ll do well. It’s hard, but you’ll get through it.”
On Monday, October 26, the fundraiser continued as 79 golfers took to the course at North Shore Towers. Holes and fairways had also been sponsored to raise money.
As of Tuesday, October 27, McCarthy said more than $15,000 had already been raised, although they were still counting.
“I am so touched and so grateful by the people who support the Billy Mac Scholarship Fund, whether it’s by coming out to the bash or to the golf outing or by donation. It’s more of a personal charity and because of that fact, I know the love and support comes from their heart because of their love for Billy and the family,” McCarthy said. “It’s overwhelming and certainly helps heal these broken hearts. There are no words to describe how grateful I am to everyone who participates.”
For more information on the Bill Mac Scholarship Fund, visit www.billymccarthy226.com.
