On a cold and wintery night in Buffalo, warm feelings were felt by everyone at Shea's Performing Arts Center on Tuesday.
Buffalo Bills defensive ends Ryan Denney and Ryan Neill volunteered as Salvation Army celebrity bell ringers and collected new clothes and monetary donations before the Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes at Shea's. In addition Neill read the holiday story, Twas the Night Before Christmas, by Clement Clarke Moore, to the children in the audience before the show began and received a rousing ovation from the crowd. The show itself was terrific fun and provided great family entertainment.
Denney, Neill and their families, along with Major Hester Dixon and Major Robert Dixon from the Salvation Army, also participated in a photo shoot with the Rockettes before the show.
The Bills and the Salvation Army continue to show their support of the Gift of Warmth program which runs through January 2, 2009. Those who weren't able to donate at the show are encouraged to donate at any M&T Bank branch throughout the Buffalo and Rochester area and Empire Vision locations.
Since 1884, The Salvation Army has been a vital link within Western New York's human services network. They provide individuals, regardless of age, gender, education, ethnicity or religion with food, clothing and shelter, as well as social and spiritual support. The mission of The Salvation Army – Buffalo Area Services is to offer hope for a better life by meeting basic human needs.
