In a world of Internet shopping and shoppers paying by card rather than cash, some optimists believe that ringing a bell will encourage someone to donate coins or currency to a good cause.
Black Friday brought out Salvation Army bell ringers to some of the busiest shopping locations in Columbus, with the familiar clang of bells sounding out in front of Kroger Marketplace, the two Walmarts, Hobby Lobby, Rural King and Sam’s Club, among others.
The Salvation Army Red Kettles have been a holiday tradition since 1891. This year, it got underway Nov. 16 in Columbus.
Charles Jeffers of Columbus, a returning Salvation Army volunteer, was assigned to the Kroger Marketplace entryway, wearing a Salvation Army hat and encouraging shoppers to drop some change in the red kettle.
Cindy Duvall graciously complied, adding: “I know him,” smiling at Jeffers. “He’s my all-time favorite bell ringer.”
For more on this story, see Wednesday’s Republic.
