West Virginia University play-by-play broadcaster Tony Caridi speaks during a previous appearance in Wheeling. He and WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker will speak during the Wheeling Salvation Army’s Kettle Drive Kickoff Luncheon on Nov. 12. (File Photo)

A discussion about West Virginia University sports will be in play when the Wheeling Salvation Army hosts its Kettle Drive Kickoff Luncheon next month.

WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker and long-time play-by-play voice Tony Caridi will be the keynote speakers at the luncheon, set for Nov. 12 at Wheeling Park’s White Palace.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. The program is scheduled to begin at 12:15 p.m. Tickets cost $40 each, and the Salvation Army also is looking for sponsors. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $5,000.

Tickets and sponsorships may be purchased by visiting the Wheeling Salvation Army’s website at wheeling.salvationarmypotomac.org. Anyone with questions should call the office at 304-233-4400.

Lt. John Lawrence, commander of the Wheeling Salvation Army, said the organization hopes to raise $50,000 at its kickoff luncheon. The local goal for the Salvation Army this holiday season is $160,000, he noted.

The kettle drive came up $50,000 short of projections in 2024, resulting in a need to intensify efforts this year, Lawrence explained.

“We’re not going to start ringing the bells until Nov. 15, and you will be able to sign up to ring the bells (at the luncheon),” Lawrence said. “You’ll also be able to sign up for the angel tree.”

He anticipates there will be 600 angels on the tree representing children registered for assistance this holiday season. Lawrence noted the Salvation Army expects to help 400 families.

Money generated through the luncheon and kettle drive this year will go toward funding the Salvation Army’s programs to provide holiday meal cards to families during the Christmas season, and to help people with food, rent, utility needs throughout the year, according to Lawrence.