NORWICH – During the time of year when many get caught up in the hustle and bustle of what the holiday season has to offer, Norwich resident John Kampe has opted to spearhead an event with hopes of both bringing members of the community together and raising funds for Relay for Life.
The event is set to kick off at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 25 at The Blarney Stone Pub, 26 S. Broad St. in Norwich.
Call it the “John Kampe Christmas Classic,” or call it a “Holiday Extravaganza;” either way, organizers are determined to make the event one for the books.
When asked the reasoning behind the date of the event – Christmas night – Kampe said, “What better time of year to not only celebrate a holiday with friends and family, but to also help out with the worldwide fight against cancer.”
There is no cover charge but all gratuities earned Wednesday will be donated to Relay for Life.
In addition, The Blarney Stone Pub is donating 10 percent of the evening's sales to the campaign.
According to Kampe, Rockstar DJ Service will provide entertainment beginning at 8 p.m. and will continue throughout the duration of the evening. Ryan Revoir of Rockstar DJ will be debuting a brand new DJ system and is donating his time and services for the event.
A 50/50 raffle will also take place, added Kampe.
“Sometimes people get caught up in their lives; their families, friends, and jobs. They forget about other individuals and families who are having a tougher time,” said Kampe. “This is an opportunity to bolster the holiday spirit. What better of a time to get together and give back than on Christmas?”
While everyone has varying experiences with regard to the holidays, Kampe explained the importance of uniting and coming together to assist those in need of a helping hand.
“A lot of people have it a lot worse than we do,” said Kampe. “Getting together to have a nice time while also giving back can do a great deal of good.”
Though the idea of holding a fundraising event on Christmas night seems slightly unorthodox, Kampe affirmed its benefits.
“We thought a lot of people spend all day with their families. Why not continue in that vein and create an atmosphere where family and friends can gather to also help out for the greater good?” said Kampe. “We can all do our part.”
Kampe recently returned to Chenango County after being away for a couple years. He said upon his return, he noticed quite a divide within the community – a divide he'd like to assist in mending.
“It's imperative not to forget in the middle of everything that's whirling around us, that someone else has it a whole lot worse,” said Kampe. “I think we should do whatever we can do to help out.”
Kampe extended gratitude to The Blarney Stone Pub for not only use of the venue, but also for the generous donation of a percentage of the sales from the night; and also to Snyder Communications for its support in the event. Thanks was also extended by Kampe to Rockstar DJ and all who have supported him in making the event possible.
Attendees are welcomed to bring a dish if they'd like, but it is not necessary. According to Kampe, all that's asked is for an open heart and a giving spirit.
Relay for Life is a non-profit organization dedicated to the fight against cancer. Funds raised for Relay for Life are used not only toward research for cures, but also for assisting those currently struggling with the disease.
Marie DeSarro, event chair for the Relay for Life of Chenango County said, “It’s incredible to see the fundraising efforts – that someone even outside of a Relay for Life team – will make to help our cause. And on top of that, it’s amazing that all the people who are putting this fundraiser together are giving their time on Christmas night to do so.”
DeSarro added that she is ever impressed regarding how passionate this community is about Relay for Life and what it stands for.
“Please, once the craziness of the day winds down … treat yourself to a drink, visit The Blarney Stone Pub, and support the Relay for Life of Chenango County. A huge thank you to John Kampe, Rockstar DJ’s Ryan Revoir, and Mike and Sarah Woods from The Blarney Stone Pub for putting this entire event together.”
The event is for people ages 21 and older. While there is no entrance fee, donations are welcomed.
For further information, visit The Blarney Stone Pub’s Facebook page, where there is a video posted regarding the event.
Said Kampe, “Choose to live. For someone else who may not have the chance.”