The 2009 bell ringing effort by St. Paul Fire on behalf of the Salvation Army was amazingly successful.  We have been credited with collecting $24,262.61, a total that far exceeded expectations.  There were two "triple match" days from anonymous donors that helped to attain that number.  The traditional kettle is replaced with a fire boot and off duty firefighters in turn out gear volunteer their time to ring between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  Firefighters are known to take in several times more than the regular bell ringers, and the Salvation Army is very grateful for our participation.  The money raised will go to support the many programs that the Salvation Army's Citadel Corp on Smith and 7th provides to the citizens of St. Paul.  MN Wild games took in $18,520.37 and included the triple match days, the Grand Meander totaled $1,886.84, Lund's $2,694.70, and Walgreen's $1,160.70.  Thanks to all who made it a great year despite dire predictions.