East Utica Classic - Hey Neighbor #95

What happens when you mix golf, food, community spirit, inflatable party stations, and a whole lot of heart? You get the East Utica Classic—one of the wildest and most meaningful days of the year in Central New York. In this episode, Keith sits down with Joey Cracchiolo and Mike Peterson, two of the driving forces behind the 15-year tradition that’s become more than just a golf tournament—it’s an all-out celebration with real impact.

From handing out surprise checks to local families in need, to creating an event so hyped it literally has its own official city holiday (yes, East Utica Classic Day is a thing), these guys break down what makes the tournament so special. They also get into the chaos and fun of planning it all—from securing over 50 foursomes and 150 volunteers, to handing out fried chicken sandwiches and pouring drinks at the party station. You’ll laugh, you’ll be inspired, and you’ll probably want to grab a golf cart and join the next one.

⛳ Highlights from the episode:

• How a small tournament at Paul’s Pub turned into a 501(c)(3) with over $200k donated locally
• The emotional check presentations that keep the team going
• East Utica Classic’s epic food, drinks, DJs, water slides, and party zones
• Why their sponsors and volunteers are the true MVPs
• The committee’s vision for expanding into new events and keeping the hype alive

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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro & KB
(0:45) - What is the East Utica Classic?
(2:10) - From Paul’s Pub to Full Nonprofit
(3:40) - Choosing Recipients
(4:50) - The Committee
(6:15) - Real Impact
(6:55) - The Emotional Check Presentations
(7:45) - Keeping it Local
(9:05) - Paul's Pub Connection
(10:00) - East Utica Classic Day & Brand
(11:30) - Waiting List & Bringing in New People
(13:15) - Why the EUC Tournament is Different
(15:15) - The Famous Party Station – Drinks, Chicken Sandwiches & DJ Sets
(15:45) - Prizes & Contests
(16:30) - Sponsorships & Getting Involved
(17:20) - 150 Volunteers & Something on Every Hole
(18:30) - After Party & Weather Tent
(21:00) - Leaving the Course How We Found It
(21:40) - Valley View Accessibility & Renting Extra Carts
(22:10) - What’s Next & Possible Future Events
(24:00) - EUC Team & Resources
(25:00) - Where to Find EUC Online
(25:45) - What Keeps Them Motivated
(27:30) - Rapid Fire Questions

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East Utica Classic Links
Website - https://www.euclassic.com
IG - https://www.instagram.com/eastuticaclassic
FB - https://www.facebook.com/groups/eastuticaclassic

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