The Salvation Army celebrates 119 years of ringing bells at Christmas .

The Anniversary was celebrated with the Red Kettle Tree of Lights Kick off luncheon on Thursday, November 12th. Pastor Wayne Alloway of St. Marks United Methodist Church has been named Honorary Chairman of the Salvation Army's 2009 Tree of Lights Campaign. The luncheon was held from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at The Salvation Army Community Center. Awards were presented to the top bell ringing groups of 2008.

The familiar sound of the Salvation Army bells began on Friday, November 13th and continues through Christmas Eve day at 32 locations in Lincoln.

A record $508,334.00 was raised in 2008.

"The goal for 2009 is $525,000 due to a 20% increase in requests for assistance with food and utilities" said Captain Jamie Pennington, Corps Commander of the Lincoln Salvation Army. More than ever before, we need individuals, families and groups to ring bells this year. To volunteer means not only helping people, it also gives you a sense of the Christmas spirit-that you've done something to help he added."

Donations of time and money are needed to reach the goal.