Billy's impact

In response to the Aug. 26 letter "Tribute for What?" in regard to the upcoming tribute to my brother Billy Mays: I would like to address a few points. The purpose of the memorial and concert is twofold: first, not just to remember a man but to remember the heart of a man who touched many lives in positive ways -- from the kids who loved watching Billy to the people who became millionaires because they trusted Billy to work as hard for them as he would for himself.

Billy spent countless hours signing autographs and encouraging children to dream big and work hard to achieve success. In fact, the vision for the September memorial was born for this reason alone. Cards, many from children, have poured in from all over the nation, in spite of the negative publicity.

Second, Billy traveled the world, but his heart was always in McKees Rocks. For this reason, all the proceeds of the event (all-day family-friendly entertainment ending with a concert) will be donated to the Focus on Renewal, a McKees Rocks-based nonprofit social service agency that is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, having made a positive difference in thousands of lives.

The writer of the Aug. 26 letter stated that her jaw dropped at the news of the Sept. 20 event. What is jaw-dropping is the fact that Billy Mays, the most-watched man on television, is continuing to touch lives even in his death. Rest in peace, big brother.

RANDY A. MAYS
Chartiers City