Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Ayanna Eckblad

Like many people, Connie VanRyswyk and Linda Anderson enjoy spending time with family, listening to Christmas music and watching Hallmark movies during the holiday season. However, for these two women, the time of year also rings in the season for another important tradition: bell-ringing for the Salvation Army. 

VanRyswyk and Anderson have volunteered as bell ringers for many years, so many that they have lost count, according to Anderson.

The two participate through the Lakeview Lions Club, and have also taken part in the Salvation Army Angel Tree program in past years.

“They do so much for our community, we’ve just got to support them in any way we can,” VanRyswyk said, explaining what keeps her coming back to volunteer each year. Her favorite part is seeing familiar faces as well as meeting new people. 

“We see everybody we never see any other time when you’re out here,” she said.

When people hear the sounds of bells ringing in store entrances and parking lots, “It is Christmas when that starts,” Anderson said. 

“We’ve got to be careful because some of them around here get sick of hearing the bell ring,” VanRyswyk said jokingly.

Because fewer shoppers are carrying cash nowadays, the Salvation Army has added another way for shoppers to donate: a stand next to the traditional red kettle where people can scan their cards to give money.

Volunteers are still needed to ring bells for the Salvation Army bell ringing this year. Groups or individuals can register to ring bells at Big Lots, Bomgaars, Hy-Vee and Walmart by calling 507-373-5710 or going online to registertoring.org. Each store has its own dates and times available.