Lew Custode contributing to Salvation Army red kettle collections

Niagara Falls Music Hall of Fame jazz trumpeter Lew Custode will once again donate his talents to help raise funds for the Salvation Army Christmas fund drive.

Custode, best known for leading The Barroom Buzzards (Buffalo Music Hall of Fame) and The Custode & Parisi Jazz Trio (Best Jazz Act, Artvoice Best of Buffalo), will perform holiday music at various Salvation Army red kettle stand locations throughout Niagara County.

The local musician will offer the charity organization a different spin on its popular holiday "bell ringer" presentation.

Custode is proud to participate and donate his time, saying, "In prior years, it was nice to see so many friends stop by the kettle, catch-up on old times and, most importantly, contribute to the fundraiser. It is very rewarding to participate, and it is my way of giving back to the community that I grew up in."

This year, the Salvation Army red kettle stands will be set up at all Tops Niagara Falls and Lewiston locations, The Fashion Outlets, as well as other locations in Niagara County. Look for Custode to start playing at various locations from Nov. 23 through Dec. 25.