By Rich Larson
The Rice County Salvation Army will launch its annual Red Kettle Campaign on Friday, Nov. 20, with a kickoff event at American Legion Post 43 in Faribault featuring a free concert by The Old Country Boys.
Rice County Sheriff Jesse Thomas, who is the Board Chair, said the Salvation Army scheduled the kickoff to coincide with the Legion’s twice-monthly dinner.
“We partnered with them to have our event at the same time so that we can have more of a crowd there,” Thomas said.
The American Legion will sell dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m., later than first advertised. Thomas said the change came at the request of Legion diners, who wanted a quieter start to their meal.
This year the band will play as a full group. Last year, Thomas noted, two members of the band performed. Those who enjoyed the performance are likely interested in seeing them perform with a full band.
The evening includes a bucket silent auction. Participants buy tickets and drop them into the buckets for the items they hope to win. Thomas said 22 items had been donated so far. There will also be a homemade pie auction.
The Salvation Army is also selling raffle tickets for a 3-by-5-foot metal American flag made by a member of the organization’s board. A similar flag is on display outside the Faribault Legion. Tickets cost $20, and only 200 will be sold. Thomas said about 50 had been sold so far. The raffle also includes two cash prizes, and the drawing is set for 8 p.m.
Money raised supports local emergency aid, housing, food and clothing programs.
Bell ringers will staff kettles throughout the season at Fareway Foods, Hy-Vee and Walmart in Faribault; Mackenthun’s Fine Foods in Lonsdale; and Cub Foods and Family Fare in Northfield. Volunteers can sign up for shifts at volunteer.central.salvationarmyusa.org.
Rich Larson is the owner and General manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
