The dulcet peals of Christmas bells have found their way to Middleburg's very own Safeway, and can be heard tinkling in the distance from as far away as the Southern States and the Coach Stop.

Middleburg, due largely to its relatively small size and the distances required for "professional" bell ringers to lend their services, has been relatively quiet around the holidays, deprived of that tintinnabulation that so many people immediately associate with the holidays.

But this year, thanks to the efforts of some dedicated individuals, and a remarkable outpouring of community volunteerism, Middleburg finally has it's own Salvation Army Red Kettle and Kettle Corps. The Red Kettle campaign, first started in San Francisco in 1891, has traditionally been The Salvation Army's most prominent fund-raiser, enabling the Army to provide food, toys and clothing to over 6 million people during the Christmas season and helping more than 34 million Americans recovering from all kinds of personal disasters nationwide.

"The success we're having is attributable entirely to the amazing response from the community as a whole," said Manuel Simpson, between jingles. "I just helped put together the schedule; the real angel behind all this has been Mabel Walsh, without whom none of it would or could have ever happened."

Middleburg's Red Kettle has touched just about the whole town, not surprising when you consider its diminutive population.

"Everyone at the French Hound, the Long & Foster office, Hill School, the Business Association, Salamander, the Mayor and Town Council members" notes Simpson, ticking off names and jingling all the way. "There are so many more. It really has been incredible the support this has received."

With Christmas practically around the corner, there are still a few timeslots available for people interested in volunteering. The Kettle is usually open for business from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday – Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday's; Sunday is a day of rest, even for the Kettle Corps.

People interested in helping out can call Simpson directly at Crème de la Crème; the number is 540-687-8360.

"It's a wonderful way to spend an hour or three during the holidays," Simpson says. "A lot of people sign up with a friend so they have company. And it's great, because everybody in town comes to the Safeway, so you get to see all your other friends while you're here!