Bundled against single-digit temperatures, Kevin Meredith rang in the holiday season today outside the Wal-Mart he manages in Superior.
"It's a nice day to be ringing," he said.
Meredith joined dozens of Wal-Mart managers nationwide by taking part in the corporation's second annual Bells Ringing Across America campaign to support the Salvation Army.
"It's definitely a worthwhile cause," said Meredith, who also serves on the Salvation Army advisory board. "They help a lot of people."
The Salvation Army of Superior kicked off the bell-ringing season on Nov. 6, and donations have recently picked up.
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"People are starting to get in the mode for Christmas," said Maj. Rosemary Matson of the Salvation Army.
Kettles are located at Wal-Mart, all three Super One stores, Dollar Days, Walgreen's, Kmart and the Mariner Mall. They are manned from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
The Superior Salvation Army hopes raise about $70,000 from the kettle campaign, the same as last year. To do that, they need volunteers. Unmanned kettles don't get donations, Matson said. Groups and individuals interested in ringing bells can call Mary or Dawn at 394-7001.
This is also the last week residents can sign up for Christmas baskets or the Toys For Tots program. Applications are accepted from 10 to noon and 1-3 p.m. today, Wednesday and Thursday and from 1-8 p.m. Friday. Adults must present a picture ID and piece of current mail. A social security or medical card is required for children. Proof of last month's income is also needed to complete an application.
