TGI Fridays Wins Sheriff’s Office Foundation’s First ‘Battle of the Bites’

The Warren County Virginia Sheriff’s Office Foundation has wrapped up its first “Battle of the Bites” fundraiser, naming TGI Fridays as the event’s champion after a month-long effort involving five Riverton Commons restaurants.

Hostess Lilly Moin, General Manager Paul Phillips and WCSO Foundation Board Advisor Bob Battini.

The foundation was formed about a year ago to strengthen the connection between the Warren County Sheriff’s Office and the community. Its mission includes helping fund advanced equipment, technology, training, educational outreach, and safety programs for youth and senior citizens.

“Battle of the Bites” was created to support that mission while also involving local restaurants and residents.

During July, the foundation distributed vouchers that allowed diners to receive a free appetizer with the purchase of a $25 meal. Each participating restaurant decided what percentage of voucher-related sales it would donate back to the foundation.

Five Riverton Commons restaurants took part: Applebee’s, Cracker Barrel, IHOP, Ledo Pizza, and TGI Fridays.

The event ended July 30. After receiving donation information from the restaurants on July 31, the foundation determined that TGI Fridays was the top participant.

The restaurant was officially recognized Aug. 4 during National Night Out in Front Royal. Assistant Manager Nerissa Roberts accepted a “Battle of the Bites” Champion plaque on behalf of TGI Fridays.

Foundation organizers said all five restaurant managers reported having a positive experience with the fundraiser and offered suggestions for improving the event next year. All five also indicated they would be willing to work with the foundation again on future events.

Organizers called the first “Battle of the Bites” a success and said planning is already underway for the next fundraiser, called “The Downtown Hunger Games.”

Restaurants in and around Front Royal are being contacted to see whether they are interested in participating.

The Warren County Virginia Sheriff’s Office Foundation says its fundraising efforts are designed to supplement resources available to the Sheriff’s Office and support programs that benefit the wider community.

More information about the foundation is available at www.WCVSOFoundation.org. The website also includes a donor page with links to the five restaurants that participated in the fundraiser.