10/21/2020
To our beloved Betty’s family,
This time seven years ago we were in the beginning stages of planning and preparing to open our doors. We were deep into renovations, menu design, hiring, and all of the fun surprises that came with opening a business for the first time. We expected many things - to work hard, to fulfill a lifetime dream of owning a family restaurant, to meet new people, to learn new skills. We hoped to provide a convenient and delicious place to eat - a place where families could gather after school events, friends could connect over a home cooked meal, locals could grab brunch without having to leave town. But these past seven years have far surpassed all of our expectations, our hopes and our dreams. Betty’s became a home to us and to many. This community welcomed us in with open arms - allowed us to be a part of your families and share in your special moments. From the happiest of times - happy birthdays (with whipped cream to the face, of course!), to weddings, to new babies, to new homes and graduations - to the more somber chats about life’s challenges and loss. We cherish each and every one of these memories.
YOU all have become such a huge and important part of our lives as well. This community, our customers and our staff have been there to support us every step of the way. From finding our footing that first year, to our craziest of new ideas or events, to the fundraisers we helped to hold for local organizations. And so it was no surprise that as we faced uncertain times this Spring with the closure of dine in service, this community continued to rally around us.
On June 14th, when the fire broke out in our beloved Betty’s we felt so many emotions - sadness, disbelief, heartbreak, but alongside that darkness, this community helped to lift our spirits. The outpouring of love and kindness was incredible - from the surprise car parade and fundraisers, to the many heartfelt cards and messages, to those that stopped by to share an air-hug - we were truly blown away and looking forward to rebuilding.
The love, kindness, support and generosity shown to us has never waivered and words cannot express how much we appreciate all of you. We are so humbled and grateful to have been a part of your journey’s and that you all have been a part of ours.
After much deliberation, great sadness and with a very heavy heart our family has decided not to reopen Betty’s. This was an incredibly difficult decision for us.
Family restaurants, like Betty’s, have had to tread through rough seas this year, and unfortunately we would still be headed into unprecedented challenges and uncertainty as Covid-19 cases increase once again.
In addition, the fire was heartbreaking and caused devastating damage to our beautiful and historic home away from home. This has led to a long, exhausting and stressful process of insurance claims. A process that has only just begun, as the rebuild is expected to take at least another 6-8 months.
Finally, Betty’s was always, but one chapter of our lives, albeit an incredible one filled with some of the highest of highs, new friends, amazing memories and a lot of hard work. One that we will cherish and hold dear all our lives. And while we did not plan to end this chapter so soon, the reduced hours this Spring and the closure since the fire have caused us to reevaluate life. Running Betty’s required many long hours, and commitments on weekends, evenings and holidays. Both, Maureen and I, are in our 50’s and led full careers before opening Betty’s. We felt it was time to slow down and to focus on family and friends, without the demands of a small business.
For those of you that donated to the GoFund me page setup to help us rebuild. We are grateful beyond words. Your generosity and kindness literally brings us to tears. Thank you! Obviously we would never keep that money and have already been in touch with GoFund me. They will be refunding all donations that were made to the fundraiser.
If you provided a donation in person or sent one in a card - we have kept a log of these donations and will reach out to refund your gifts as well.
Any funds that we are not able to return or are refused will be donated to a project near and dear to our hearts - a new memorial in Washingtonville to honor those who have passed as a result of their service to our nation during the rescue and recovery efforts following that fateful day on 9/11. Many first responders, tradesmen and women, MTA workers, volunteers and others are still suffering as a result of their exposure to toxins during their tireless efforts. If you wish to donate please visit https://www.wbgny911.org/
While this decision is bittersweet, we will always look back and smile while cherishing the memories and friendships created at our special place. Betty’s was named after my beloved mom, and I know in my heart we made her proud.
We are actively seeking a new owner/operator for our cherished, historic building in the heart of Washingtonville - one who will be community minded…..
And this isn’t goodbye - we hope to see you all at some of our favorite community events, only this time not behind the grill and a little less sweaty. Thank you for everything from the bottom of our hearts!
