Cordova Fire and Rescue invited the community to join them on Saturday, Dec. 20 in celebrating the Christmas season while treating everyone in song, fellowship, snacks — and of course, Santa.
Attendees listened to music from the popular Christian group 2nd Chance Ministries as well as one of the department's own, Assistant Chief Bob Smith.
“In 2024, we decided we wanted to do a Christmas event for the community — something cost efficient, but beneficial to the community," Smith said. "The firemen all came together and passed the boot to raise our own money being able to put together the event; which is what we did again this year. It’s our way as members to give back to the community.”
A boot was placed on a table during the event giving attendees the opportunity to also contribute.
Around 20 members of the department were there to help with the event, as well as bringing family along to enjoy the night.
Capt. Randy Stubbs has volunteered with Cordova for 30 years. He is also the booking manager and runs sound for 2nd Chance Ministries and was able to secure the group for the event.
The group has numerous followers, some who drove a couple of hours to hear them sing. One attendee, 92-year-old Betty Locklear, has been traveling for the past nine years to hear the group.
“It is a blessing I was able to connect with 2nd Chance,” Locklear said.
One of the group’s lead singers, Ricky Malloy had a prior commitment and could not make the event. Malloy began singing with his family when he was a young boy and is also a talented musician.
The group had a back-up plan as the multi-talented bus driver Phillip Williams filled in. He is also the drummer for the group and has been with them for a year.
"We love any opportunity we can to go out and do something for the community," Williams said. "We want to make sure it’s not about us, but it’s about the Lord. We try to put Jesus’ name above everything else; if we can do that, we’ve done our job.”
Group member Brandon Gainey also sings lead and baritone as well as playing many instruments. He has been with 2nd Chance for 10 years. Gainey got his start singing with his family in a group called the Tyners.
“Mainly what I love about this group is the ministry part," Gainey said. "I love what this event is doing for this community; to come together and fellowship as well as seeing the kids going over to sit with Santa. I appreciate Randy inviting us to be a part of it.”
Brian Alvey sings tenor and has been with the group for three years. Prior to joining 2nd Chance, Alvey sang with The Kingdom Heirs in Dollywood, as well as a few other groups before that. He expressed his gratitude for being a part of the Cordova Fire and Rescue event and said, “It’s been good, and I’m glad to have landed here.”
Santa was a big hit with the children, as they kept him busy with their wish lists.
Everyone involved enjoyed the fellowship of people coming together and taking time to spread cheer throughout this holiday season.
