Chatterbox Old Time Radio Christmas Eve Special On Tap For WECS

WILLIMANTIC, CT — Christine Guarnieri, a longtime radio personality on WECS 90.1 FM, will host her annual Chatterbox Old Time Radio Christmas Eve Special on Dec. 24-25. The show will begin at 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve and conclude at 9 a.m. on Christmas morning.

Broadcasting from the Eastern Connecticut State University radio station, the show will feature recordings of vintage radio programs as well as archival recordings created with the Chatterbox Players, a local group of actors who have presented holiday classics such as "The Gift of the Magi" and "Miracle on 34th Street" and "The Bishop's Wife" over the years.

The program will also feature classic Christmas music from the first five decades of the 20th century, known as the "Golden Age of Radio," an atmosphere Guarnieri seeks to recreate. There will also be live readings by Eastern faculty and staff members.

"As an alternative to computers, football games, etc.," Guarnieri said, "Have some cocoa or eggnog and enjoy the humor (on the radio)."

Guarnieri views her program as a service to the community. She gives shoutouts to local businesses and features local talent. Most importantly, she aims to bring joy and laughter to her listeners.

"I believe we have a responsibility to be filled with joy and pass it on," she said.