That time of year again, so keep spare change handy

• Paulson

Ed Paulson, 67, of River Falls, who heads up the Pierce County Salvation Army also serving lower St. Croix County, demonstrates the bell ringing technique hundreds of volunteers will be doing outside and inside several local stores. -- Photo by Phil Pfuehler

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Salvation Army bell ringers jumpstarted the annual fundraising drive by starting early this year.

With busy grocery buying peaking before Thanksgiving Day, some were out late last month at EconoFoods and Dick’s Fresh Market in River Falls.

In Ellsworth at Hinck’s Economart, bell ringers were expected to be out the day before Thanksgiving.

Local Salvation Army Treasurer and Chairman Ed Paulson said it’s smart to start now when it’s busiest.

Salvation Army winter holiday bell ringing typically starts after Thanksgiving. However, supermarkets usually see a drop-off then because people have already loaded up for the big turkey meal.

“After Thanksgiving, we’ll be back to the normal hours,” Paulson said. “Those may be extended if we get more volunteers.”

Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, bell ringers and their kettle stands will be found at Dick’s, EconoFoods, Shopko, Hinck’s Economart and at the Spring Valley drugstore.

Hours will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekends; and all day long the week leading up to Christmas Day.

Various businesses will also keep counter kettles on hand for donations.

For more please read the Dec. 2 print version of the Herald.

Tags: local news, salvation army, pierce county, news