A variety show fundraiser with local performers will be dedicated to a late musician who entertained at many regional events.
After a pandemic pause, Salvation Army’s Christmas Party will return to the WKBV 1490 AM airwaves from 7-10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 7.
Radio personalities Rick Duncan and John Rose will serve as hosts. Youth and adult performers will gather at The Leland Legacy’s ballroom to appear in 15-minute segments.
During the three hours, listeners can call the Salvation Army’s regular phone line, 765-966-7791, to pledge contributions.
The public is invited to drop in and watch any portion of the show, which opens with Seton Catholic High School’s choir and band.
Those musical Cardinals are followed by Stage One Youth Theatre carolers, Alisa Clapp-Itnyre on piano and Joy Swonder on flute, Chad Evans & Friends, Northeastern Elementary, Moment’s Notice, Ron Anderson, pianist Jonathan Hampton, singer Aaron Stevens, and pianist Olivia Dudas.
Organizers are paying tribute to longtime radio show performer Charlie Estes, who died in 2022 at age 78. The Army veteran had worked for WKBV, taught guitar and banjo at Earlham College, created jingles for commercials, and wrote songs.
Estes led his own band that recorded albums and performed around the Midwest. Some of their best-known local performances included Senior Opportunities Services’ Music Jamboree, which also featured talent from Branson, Missouri, and Richmond Rose Festival.
Funds raised help Salvation Army assist families at Christmas and offer social services such as a weekly food pantry at 707 S. A St. in Richmond. Soap and personal hygiene items are distributed during that time when available. Major Bill Welch oversees those programs.
Pantry recipients need to bring photo ID and proof of residency.
A version of this article appeared in the December 6 2023 print edition of the Western Wayne News.