The Craig Q. King annual Celebration of Life Gala will be held from 7:30-10 p.m. May 7 at “the beautiful and elegant Stone River,” said Paulette King.
Stone River is located at 121 Alexander Road in West Columbia.
“It has a one-of-a-kind venue and has a one-of-a-kind view of the Congaree River and Columbia’s skyline,” King said. “Proceeds from this much-anticipated event will be divided between two organizations that do so much for cancer patients, survivors and their families.”
Those organizations include Clarendon County Relay for Life and Camp Kemo, who “have both contributed to the continuous financial support needed for the well-being of those affected by cancer.”
The gala will feature entertainment by the Emerald Empire Band of Charlotte, North Carolina. Blue Marlin of Columbia will provide food, and there will be a silent auction and photo booth.
Craig Q. King said his vision for the e vent started after having a five-year celebration of life party at his house with family and friends one decade ago.
“Later, I had a vision to celebrate not only my survivorship, but that of others as well,” King said. “In addition, I wanted to host this gala for Camp Kemo and Clarendon County Relay for Life. These two organizations have done so much for me and my family.”
The King Team is one of the largest fundraising teams in Clarendon County and has raised more than $100,000 over the years for cancer research, education about the disease, transportation to appointments, the Look Good, Feel Good Project and various other services to assist cancer patients and their families.
Camp Kemo, a summer camp for children and their siblings, which was attended by the gala founder, Craig Q. King, “is widely recognized as an exceptional summer camp that allows the children to have fun and take a break from everyday life,” Paulette King said.
“It also gives parents peace of mind because the camp has a full medical staff of nurses and doctors,” she said. “Craig is also a 15-year counselor at Camp Kemo and a 15-year bone cancer survivor.”
King said tickets will begin pre-selling Jan. 15, with all tickets $60 per person for two weeks only. Single and group tickets will go on sale at $75 per person and $140 per couple starting Jan. 30.
King said participants are encouraged to purchase tickets via www.celebrationoflifegala.com. Donations may also be made via the website.
For those persons who are coming from out of town and want to stay over after the event, hotel accommodations have been made at the Embassy Suites by Hilton. Please visit the website for information on how to access the group code and rate. Visit the website to download the sponsorship packet or email info@celebrationoflifegala.com.
“Andrena King of LeVon Events is responsible for planning this amazing evening,” said Paulette King. “Please make plans to attend and purchase tickets quickly because they are sure to sell fast.”
