by Sandy Wyman
It never ceases to amaze one what a community that we have in the Gouverneur area when it comes to showing the best of helping hands and hearts.
That was the case on Sunday, January 29 as an overwhelming crowd showed support for the “Friends for Jake” benefit held at Mullin’s Restaurant that came about through the friendship shown for Jake Ferrick by Trey D’Agostino, Robert (RJ) Kulp and John-Michael Leader.
At their tender ages, this trio well understands that friend Jake, age 8, is fighting a valiant battle against the foe of a rare type of cancer named Stage Four High Risk Neuroblastoma.
Jake has not been able to be at home due to the nature of his treatments and misses most of all after family and home, his school (St. James) and his pals.
With that in mind, Trey, RJ and John-Michael came up with the idea to sponsor a spaghetti dinner to help Jake’s family with expenses incurred while they stay near Jake to provide a sense of home complete with love and comfort during his ongoing treatments.
The eatery on Route 11 south was filled to the brim with diners of all ages plus the takeout part of the delicious dinner, a standby old favorite, was one whirlwind of activity.
The aroma wafted indoors creating an appetite for a laden plate of spaghetti and meatballs, a bowl of tossed salad and rolls served by the dynamic trio afore mentioned.
The pace was well scheduled as meal after meal found its way to satisfy the diners as tables were cleared efficiently in order to welcome more to the dinner tables.
And if the meal was not enough, there was a raffle present plus an awesome bake sale hosted by more friends of Jake from St. James School, who at the time of my visit were Ava Bartholomew and Kenslee Petrie, both stating that business was brisk and steady.
After this reporter made my way throughout the kitchen area, it is most heartwarming to see more than a couple dozen of volunteers behind the scene giving all of their energy and expertise to make this special fundraiser a real tribute, once again, to the helping hands and hearts of a caring community beyond description!
As of deadline time, it was reported that upwards of 400 dinners had been served and came as no surprise as giving to a great cause is one of the most important virtues that anyone can possess.