This Saturday, a tradition of helping people will continue in central Iowa. On Sunday, Oct. 15, the ninth annual All Iowa AIDS Benefit Variety Show will be held in Des Moines.

The All Iowa AIDS Benefit (AIAB) began nine years ago in the basement of a small bar in Des Moines. One year later it became an annual event and was moved to the east lobby of the Civic Center. Each year the event has continued to grow, drawing an audience of over 1,000 people in 1994.

Eventually, the benefit expanded to include an auction. It is held one week before the variety show and includes items and services donated by local, as well as national celebrities.

This year’s show will feature some very talented artists from within the Des Moines area. The performers on the bill include Lizz Sharp, a jazz vocalist, Irene Myles, a pianist and vocalist, Alisson Wignall, a singer from Newton and the Neuman Project, a dance ensemble formed by choreographer Greg Neuman.

“[We] hope everyone can attend,” said David Uitiritto, Chairman of the Event Committee.

“The important thing is the money goes to everyone in Iowa living with AIDS, especially the Central Iowa area, Polk and Story counties.”

The benefit will start at 6 p.m. For ticket information call 284-0245.