A Bobbique Birthday Party for AIDS Group

While many people look forward to receiving birthday presents, Joseph Felicetta decided to give a present of his own.

Felicetta held a birthday fundraiser at Bobbique, where those who attended were encouraged to leave a donation for the Long Island Association for AIDS Care (LIAAC), to help fund the organization's holiday party.

"My foster brother and several friends passed from AIDS, and this fundraiser in particular is for the children who are the innocent victims of AIDS because when they get the virus it is never by choice," Felicetta said.

Jamie Lindsay, the prevention education and program services assistant for LIAAC, said Felicetta raised over $1,000 in two hours.

Lindsay said the holiday party is funded entirely by donations, which fund food, an appearance by Santa, a DJ and gifts for the children.

"For many of our clients, the holiday party is the only celebration they can afford," Lindsay said.

Felicetta chose the barbecue restaurant because he is a retired chef and is friends with the chef at Bobbique. Felicetta has guest cooked at the restaurant.

"Everyone donated their time to the event. Eric [the chef] donated the buffet, all money the bands are being paid is going straight to LIAAC," Felicetta said.

Donations at the event were collected in tiers, starting at $10 and going up through $100, which bought donors t-shirts, CDs, a buffet, and hugs from Felicetta. Money was also collected through several 50-50 raffles.

Felicetta said he may do the event again next year, and turn it into an annual party.

To give to LIAAC, visit the donation website or send money to LIAAC at 60 Adams Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11778.