Delores Richards and I are the two volunteer coordinators for the Salvation Army in Lyon County. To say that 2022 was a crazy and challenging year would be an understatement.

First our supervisor for Salvation Army was out for most of the campaign with a serious illness. Thank God she is back working, if only from home for the time being. Then Delores and I both had health and mobility issues as well. However, the people of Lyon County came to our rescue and we ended up with just over $44,000 and about 88% of that stays right here in Lyon County.

I feel that I need to clarify something. As stated above Delores and I are “volunteer” coordinators. For the first time I have had many people ask how much Delores and I are paid. We are not paid anything other than the smiles we receive and the knowledge that we are contributing to help those in Lyon County who may need temporary assistance.

Our time, our travel and whatever is our expense. We are not paid or reimbursed for anything.

A special thank you to Ace Hardware, Hy-Vee, Runnings and El Rancho Mexican Restaurant for letting us ring our bell in your locations. Thank you also to the locations that allowed us to place our kettles in their business. The Hitching Post, Hy-Vee Gas, Perkins, Cottonwood Co-op Convenience Store; in Minneota, Ag Plus Convenience Store and Brad’s Market.

Our “bell ringers” were once again down in numbers, due to time constraints, illness, family emergencies and of course, Mother Nature. Those that rang did a fantastic job…thank you. For the third year in a row, the Marshall Fire Department and First Independent Bank both took one location for a whole day. The Marshall Honor Society rang for the third year in a row….thank you.

Our special Olympians once again rang the bell. St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cottonwood was once again represented by a confirmation student ringing the bell. In addition we had several new bell ringers this year. There were not only individuals, but the Marshall High School football team and the Cottonwood Honor Society and the Cottonwood High School football team. A huge thank you to all who came to our aid!

A Special thank you to Santa for taking his time to ring the bell for a whole day. Our realtor day was once again full with ringers from Edina Realty, Marshall Area Homes, Wilson O’Brien, Keller Williams, Minnesota Land and Homes and Full Circle Realty.

Marshall Independent and KMHL were once again very supportive…Thank you.

The success of the Salvation Army’s mission depends on you. Our sincere appreciation and thanks to all who so generously contributed both time and money. It means a lot and makes a huge difference. If we left anyone off our list, we apologize and thank you for your involvement.

We are so very proud to be a part of this community family of Lyon County with all your caring and willingness to help those in need. Thank you and God Bless.

–Dennis Ozmunn is a coordinator for the Salvation Army