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. 5.

Whitewater Broadcasting radio personalities will serve as hosts. Youth and adults will gather at The Leland Legacy’s ballroom, 900 S. A St., Richmond, to perform traditional carols in 15-minute segments.

Alisa Clapp-Itnyre performs at Salvation Army’s 2023 radio show. File photo

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 performances, starting with local kids in the Community Choristers led by Alisa Clapp-Itnyre at 6:15 p.m.

Additional performers include Seton Catholic High School’s choir and band, Seton piano student Peter Daoud, Westview Elementary kindergarten and first graders, Richmond High School Chamber Singers, and pianist Jonathan Hampton. 

The final host will be Aaron Stevens, a Richmond police officer also known for singing at various community events. 

Stevens recently announced he is having vocal cord issues. After this event, he will pause performing to undergo treatment in hopes of restoring his voice for public singing. 

Vivian Beckerich rings the bell during Salvation Army’s 2023 radio show. File photo

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 personal hygiene items are distributed when available. Major Bill Welch oversees those programs. 

Donations may be made online anytime at sarichmond.org

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A version of this article appeared in the December 4 2024 print edition of the Western Wayne News.

Millicent Martin Emery is a reporter and editor for the Western Wayne News.