BOISE - Betty the Washerwoman is ready for her closeup.
The iconic mechanized prop that sits above a sign for Cucina Di Paolo Italian restaurant has been a mainstay on Vista Avenue for decades, going back to when the building housed a laundromat.
In recent years, the restaurant's owners have taken to dressing Betty up in colorful costumes. It's not just a gimmick, but a clever way to raise money for local nonprofits.
Last year, Betty was featured in a calendar that raised more than $27,000 for the Idaho Foodbank.
After seeing the success of last year's fundraiser, Cucina Di Paolo co-owner Mary Jean Wegner decided to try it again, this time with the funds going to several animal-based charities, including the Idaho Humane Society, Fuzzy Pawz Rescue and Pet Peace of Mind.
"I figured, I could write a check for $50 to the Humane Society, but if we put our big girl pants on, get a posse going then we could do a calendar and this way we can give it to three agencies instead of just one," Wegner said.
The 2019 Betty calendar will cost $20 and will be available starting in early October at Cucina Di Paolo.
For an extra donation of $50, you can get a picture taken of you and your pet that will be added into the calendar. The deadline for that is Aug. 25. For more information visit the Cucina Di Paola website.