By Kate Bartlett
December 1st marks the 18th annual Bob McCarthy’s Irish Christmas Charitable event at 6pm at the Ellicottville Brewing Company. This event has become an Ellicottville holiday tradition and kicks off the spirit of giving with good food and good company.
Greg Cappelli, event coordinator and close friend to the late Bob McCarthy, has been involved since its inception. “Bob started Irish Christmas with the intent of gathering the community to raise money for local charities,” says Greg. “Everything he did was embellished with his charm, and this event was no different.”
It all started with a pie and a wooden box. “Bob told me he was going to build a wooden box to pair with a homemade pie for the event’s first auction. I thought he was a bit crazy, but in true Bob fashion, the event was a huge success and the wooden pie box sold for $900. We’ve kept this tradition going, and continue to pair a baked good with each auction item. It keeps the event fun, light-hearted and different.”
The auction is called by Brooks LeFeber, who keeps the event moving along with his comedic banter. A variety of unique items are auctioned, including handmade birdhouses by woodworker Ed Fredrickson. “Most items go well above any expected price; people are looking to give to charity and it’s great to see.”
Bob had a flair about him, and was beloved by the community as ‘the voice of Ellicottville” as he emceed most events for the Ellicottville Chamber and all of Holiday Valley. As a retired special education teacher and ski instructor at Holiday Valley, he was well known and very involved. “He was a comical guy,” recalls Greg. “His vibrant personality shined in all that he did, and his spirit was like none other.”
Proceeds benefit Santa’s Workshop, which helps less fortunate families with a holiday dinner and gifts at Christmas. The event is now put on by the Bob McCarthy Foundation, which focuses on supporting family needs in the community with programs throughout the year.
When asked what makes the event special, without hesitation Greg replied “a little bit of Irish magic”, followed by a direct quote from Bob: “I don’t know where it comes from, it’s just there.”
Bob’s spirit is certainly alive at the Irish Christmas event, and it continues to raise money for charity in a jovial, celebratory way. Event highlights include live Irish music by Crikwater (5:45), Bagpiper Asa Moss (7:30), Champagne toast to Bob (7:25), basket raffle and, of course, the live auction starting at 7:45.
Ellicottville Brewing Company has kindly donated beer and wine, so drinks are available for only $5 with proceeds directly benefiting the foundation. Food from various local restaurants will be available, also for a $5 donation, and includes Irish delicacies like Irish Stew, Irish Meatballs and Guinness Mac and Cheese from Madigan’s.
It’s truly fun for all ages, and a great way to ring in the holiday spirit. Stop down to Ellicottville Brewing Company on December 1st from 6-10pm and celebrate with good people for a good cause.