UTICA/ROME -- Longtime local radio host Bill Keeler wants to collect 20,000 donated toys for needy children over the next two weeks. He's hoping a special concert tomorrow night at Utica's Stanley Center for the Performing Arts will help him get at least 25% of the way to that goal..
According to a report in the Utica Observer-Dispatch, the morning host of 92.7 The Drive (WXUR) is promising a five-hour bash featuring performances by local favorites including Gridley Paige, Sweet Vendetta and The Crazy Fools. Admission is just $5 plus the donation of at least one new, unwrapped toy. The show begins at 7pm.
Donors are encouraged to bring more than the minimum donation of one toy -- those who bring ten or more will be admitted to a VIP room offering "special catering and beverages."
The newspaper says the event will be emceed by Todd Bridges, best known for playing Willis on the 80s sitcom Diff'rent Strokes. He'll also be available for photographs with attendees.
Keeler Show sidekick Mark Piersma will be camping out at the New Hartford Shopping Center for the entire week of December 13-17 to help keep donations coming in strong during the toy drive's final days. Toys will be distributed to families through a number of local agencies including the Salvation Army and Catholic Charities.
While we typically don't report on station promotions (there's just too many to keep up with), we do make an exception for events that showcase local radio's ability to benefit the community. If your station and/or cluster is doing anything special to help your area's less-fortunate during the holiday season, send the details to cnyradio@cnyradio.com or use our Contact Form.