by Steve Bradley
Say what you want about Hoosick Falls, but when one of their own needs help, the people always come through.
Jeff Babson needs and is in line to receive a heart transplant at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York City. After a bit of a battle, his insurance agreed to cover much of the medical expenses. There would still be considerable expenses with hotel costs, and all the extra costs, especially in NYC. So some folks at the Polish Hall got together and decided to do something to help Jeff by raising some money. And did they ever succeed at that!
Last Saturday there was a fundraiser for Jeff Babson at the Polish Hall on Clay Hill. It was great. Everything was perfect. The day was beautiful. Over 400 people filled the grounds. People were paying the $10 admission with a $100 bill and a “Keep the change” order. People ate hamburgers and hot dogs, visited with new and old friends and just enjoyed it. Many brought food to share, many just shared stories. Some good ones about Jeff, some about Jeff that were … well … about Jeff, and we’ll leave it at that.
In the end, over $18,000 was raised. The next day Jeff was in New York City.
Rich Stifter was the over $1,400 50/50 winner.