Under the crumbling economy, Christmas will turn a deep shade of blue for many people. That's why the annual charity concert Blue Christmas is especially important this year, its organizers say.

This 17th concert will be held Dec. 14 at the Manchester Inn, featuring rock/blues groups Johnny B. and the Gravediggers, Mojo Pogi, The Royal Blues, The Connection and The Scotty Bratcher Band featuring special guest Noah Hunt, the lead singer for the Kenny Wayne Shepherd band.

All of them are local or regional acts, and all have volunteered their time and talent to the event, said its chairman, Chuck Evans.

Last year's Blue Christmas did less well than some others, with the show falling on the day of an ice storm. It raised about $5,000 for the homeless shelter Hope House, Evans said. Over the years, working with Middletown Area United Way, the event has netted more than $130,000 for local charities. Hope House is the beneficiary again this year.

"With the mortgage meltdown, record foreclosures and more people being laid off, Hope House and other shelters are the last resort for a lot of folks. Maybe it's more important this year that we do this for Hope House," Evans said.

Gregg Clark, the frontman of the Royal Blues, founded Blue Christmas and says his band is "coming out of retirement again" to play next week's show.

"With the economy the way it is, people need as much help as possible these days. We're keen on keeping this going for Hope House," Clark said.

The event will also include two raffles: a guitar from Moeller Music, and a framed poster of singer Chris Isaak plus a shirt signed by members of his band, donated by the Artique Gallery.

Tickets for the show are available at the Manchester Inn, 1027 Manchester Ave., and at Flowers By Roger at 1210 Manchester Ave. Individual and group tickets can be purchased by calling (513) 705-1160.

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2836 or erobinette@coxohio.com.