A Christmas variety show that can be heard via radio or watched in person will help Wayne County residents in need.
The Salvation Army/WKBV Christmas Party returns to WKBV 1490 AM’s airwaves from 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, but will move to a new location. It will be inside Central United Methodist Church, 1425 E. Main St., Richmond.
Duncan Media radio personalities Rick Duncan, John Rose and Andrew Hoover will serve as hosts, along with Salvation Army’s new majors, Charles and Katie Pinkston.
The Pinkstons urgently seek additional community support this year because they have already doubled the number of people they hope to serve with their Christmas toy and food giveaway. They already distributed more than 250 winter coats earlier this month.
During the radio show, area youth and adults will gather to perform traditional carols and offer readings in 15-minute segments.
The public is invited to drop in and watch any portion of the performances, starting with kids in the Community Choristers led by Alisa Clapp-Itnyre at 6:15 p.m.
Additional talent includes reader Kendra Beisner, songs by the Pinkstons, Seton Catholic student Peter Daoud on piano, Seton Catholic High School singers, pianist Jonathan Hampton and Richmond High School Chamber Choir.
From 8:15-8:30 p.m., a recording of the late Corky Cordell as Santa will air. Cordell, who served as Richmond mayor and Wayne County sheriff, also portrayed Santa for many years at the former Elder-Beerman department store in Richmond.
Aaron Stevens will host a condensed Memory Hour from 8:30-8:45 p.m. when callers may donate in memory of someone. The names of those being honored will be read aloud.
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 hygiene items are distributed when available.
How to help
- During Salvation Army’s 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, radio show at Central United Methodist Church, 1425 E. Main St., Richmond, WKBV 1490 AM listeners can call Salvation Army’s regular number, 765-966-7791, or additional phone lines mentioned during the broadcast to pledge contributions or stop by with a donation. Gifts also may be made online anytime at sarichmond.org.
- Businesses, groups or individuals are sought to purchase toys, food and other items for the 450+ kids and teens on Wayne County’s Angel Tree. To participate, call 765-966-7791.
- Volunteers are needed to ring bells at collection kettles between 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays through Dec. 24. They can sign up at registertoring.com. Kettle sponsorships are $100 to $2,500.
A version of this article appeared in the November 26 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.