Smashing Comedian Gallagher is Staying in Utica

Legendary comedian Gallagher has done his work to benefit the Keeler Toy Drive; but, his work in Utica has only just begun.

"I have a bucket list of things that will make the world a better place and I've decided to begin my work here in Utica," Gallagher told WIBX's Bill Keeler.

The stand-up icon made a mess at the Radisson on Friday night as hundreds gathered at the restaurant, many of them standing, witnessed the smashing of watermelons and his unbelievably honest observational comedy.  Hundreds of toys came in for the Keeler Toy Drive, which benefits Operation Sunshine at the Observer Dispatch, which means that Keeler's plan to bring in a big name to attract donations seemed to work.

"We had Gallagher performing in Oneonta on Saturday night and the plan was for him to

fly out of Syracuse on Sunday...the 'flying out' part never happened," said Bill Keeler.

Now, he's looking for a place to stay.  That's right, Gallagher wants to experience real life in Utica so he's looking for families willing to let him move in for a few weeks so he can begin his work to apply his 'bucket list' ideas to better the Greater Utica region.  "I have ideas that will make the world a better place and I'm starting by making a difference in Utica," Gallagher said.  He was inspired to do positive things after his fourth heart attack.

"I told my doctor after I survived, I wasn't going to use the time I was given to watch 'Law and Order' episodes I hadn't seen yet, and that's when I started my bucket list of things to do," he said. The comedian, who was one of America's biggest names in the 80's, says he has meetings already set with the Utica Zoo and also plans to meet with the Mayor and those involved in nano tech.  Additionally, he has plenty to do beyond making the world a better place as he's still doing shows across the region.

He was spotted at the North Utica Walmart on Saturday shopping for produce in preparation for a show in Oneonta that night.  When he was checking out, the watermelons weren't marked with a price sticker.  The clerk began to call for a manager to get a price check.  That's when Gallagher told her to punch in the code '504.'

"I'm pretty sure that's the code for watermelons," Gallagher told the clerk.  Sure enough, watermelon came up on the cash register.  "Wow, you're right," the clerk said, and there was no reason to call for a price check.

So, are you willing to let Gallagher stay with you this holiday season?

Residents interested in adding a celebrity house guest for the holidays should contact the Keeler in the Morning show on WIBX during the program between 6 and 9 a.m. by calling 736-0186 or email Keeler.