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Salvation Army bell-ringers received donations slightly ahead of last year's effort going into the weekend. Salvation Army
rings up more
donations this yearBy Harold Morse
Star-BulletinThe pre-weekend Honolulu total stood at about $111,000, compared to some $108,000 at the same time last year, said Maj. Warren Dabis, corps officer. "Our best kettle area (for donations) is at Liberty House Ala Moana," he said.
Things were jumping at the Liberty House Ala Moana site last night. KZOO radio personalities and Chinatown Lions Club members rang the bells all the way 'til midnight.
Evelyn Oliveros, 23, of Kalihi, was one of many who contributed. "It's Christmas, a time for sharing," she said with a smile.
"We do this every year," said Rick Hoo, Chinatown Lions Club president. Some teen-age Lions were ringing bells over by Sears, he said. Donations have been "fantastic, it's been fantastic."
KZOO volunteers included Mike Nakama and Hiroshi Inouye, featured on KZOO's Mike and Hiroshi Show from 7 until midnight Saturdays. "It's in English," Nakama said. KZOO, 1210 am, normally offers Japanese programming.
The on-air types were assisted by a behind-the-scenes computer specialist, known as the Whiz. "I'm helping them out designing a Web site," he said, explaining his real name is Wes Wada. "Also, we're setting up a live screening so they can broadcast on the Internet and anybody in the world can tune in," he said. Volunteers are to keep ringing bells today and through 3 p.m. tomorrow.
Other Honolulu locations for bell-ringers and kettles include Pali Safeway, Moiliili Longs across from Stadium Park, and Kahala Times Super Market at 1173 21st Ave.
Kettle donations help support such Salvation Army programs as addiction treatment, day care for children, senior low-income housing, plus crisis assistance and other services for families.
Salvation Army