Publisher’s Perspective

By Tim Douglas, Publisher

The annual Red Kettle Kickoff by the Salvation Army took place on Saturday at Tom’s Market in Glenwood.

The Kickoff featured music, local celebrity bell ringers, hot chocolate and cookies and special musical performances.  Those who missed the Kickoff, which signals the beginning of the Bell Ringing season for donations, will have numerous opportunities to donate to the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.

This year’s Kickoff event raised $1,880, according to Donna Ortendahl, the Central Minnesota Field Representative for the Northern Division of the Salvation Army.

More photos and information about the Salvation Army and the local Red Kettle Kick Off will be featured in next week’s Pope County Tribune & Times.

The bell ringing season starts each November and runs through Christmas Eve, when the red kettles are packed away for the season. Volunteers are the difference between an empty kettle and one that raises about $30 per hour – enough to provide a family with two bags of groceries, or shelter an individual for a night.

The Salvation Army always needs help bell ringing at those famous red kettles during the Christmas season.  To volunteer, visit online at centralusa.salvationarmy.org/northern/volunteer.  The website also provides a link to donate to the Salvation Army and the work it does in Minnesota and North Dakota during the year.

The Salvation Army’s mission shines

brightest at Christmas time.

The Salvation Army celebrates the birth of Christ by spreading His hope, love and joy to the less fortunate members of society.  In fact, its gift-giving programs and fundraising initiatives are a direct answer to God’s calling to care for the poor, hungry, sick, and displaced. From physical needs such as grocery, utility and gift assistance, to emotional experiences including holiday events and traditions, to spiritual guidance that provides healing and hope, The Salvation Army works to assist the whole person through gifts that serve the body, mind and soul.