Longtime radio personality John Carney, co-host of KTRS’ The Carney Show, airing weekdays from noon–3 p.m., is now in his third decade of hosting CarneyVal. The annual event benefits his namesake nonprofit, the Carney’s Kids Foundation, which provides financial support and promotes local, kid-focused charitable organizations.
A foodie and amateur chef, Carney also hosts Restaurant Tuesday, airing Tuesdays from 1–2 p.m. on KTRS. The long-running show is dedicated to showcasing St. Louis’ independent restaurant owners and chefs, a group that has been quick to reciprocate, dedicating a Saturday evening—and a slew of dishes—to help make CarneyVal a sort of culinary food fest.
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The fundraiser includes stand-up comics, live music, and a silent auction. During past years, upwards of 400 guests would pack local ballrooms for the gala, with many sporting masks and costumes and speculating how Carney would appear. The event’s namesake never disappoints, dressing in costumes ranging from Flo to a pharaoh, Marie Antoinette to Marilyn Monroe.
This year, CarneyVal will be held virtually on Saturday, February 27, from 7–9 p.m. The location: home sweet home. Guests can order food and alcohol packages at several price points, from the $300 Cottage CarneyVal to the $1,250 Castle CarneyVal. Participating restaurants include LoRusso’s Cucina, Anthonino’s Taverna, Annie Gunn’s, Sugarfire Smoke House, and Mission Taco Joint, among others. All items will be delivered in advance of the event, and participants will be eligible to win door prizes. There’s also an individual ticket option, The Crash Pad CarneyVal ticket. Full package details can be found here.
This year’s emcee will be Heidi Glaus, host of the The Heidi Glaus Show with Josh Gilbert on KTRS, along with an impressive lineup of eight comedians: Brian Regan, Alonzo Bodden, the Sklar Brothers, Greg Warren, Eddie Brill, Rocky LaPorte, and Ryan Stout.
So what will Carney be wearing for the virtual event? Designer sweatpants and slippers? Tuxedo top and pajama bottoms? You’ll have to tune in to find out.
