Tree of Lights Kick-Off This Morning – Kettles Begin Tomorrow

The Salvation Army officially kicked-off its Christmas fund-raising efforts with its Tree of Lights Kick-off at Northwoods Mall this morning at 10:00 a.m. Once again, the kick-off ceremonies took place inside the mall, on the lower level near JC Penney.

“We are pleased with the great relationship we have with Northwoods Mall and are looking forward to another great kick-off event,” said Major Evie Diaz, Divisional Commander for The Salvation Army.

The ceremony will include the announcement of the 2012 Tree of Lights goal, words from 2012 Honorary Co-Chairs Lynn and Penny Kunkle, predictions from the local tv weathermen, and the announcement of total funds raised to date.

Beginning tomorrow morning, the familiar red kettles hit the streets of Peoria and surrounding areas, filling the air with sounds of the familiar bell-ringers. To date, The Salvation Army has over 40 kettle sites, along with many counter kettle locations.

For more information on helping out with ringing, go to www.ringbells.org or contact Major Donna Miller at 682-8886.

For more information on the Tree of Lights Campaign, please contact Rich Draeger at 655-1348 or 253-9909.