Chimes for Charity exceeds $40,000 goal

Chimes for Charity finished its weeklong broadcast with Chad Davis (seated left) and Angela Brunson (seated right) on Sunday night. Sunday's broadcast was sponsored by CableOne and a total of $6,994 was raised with 85 children sponsored. The behind-the-scenes producers of Chimes also posed together for a photo to end the 64th annual production. From left, standing: Bill Valentine, Robyn Valentine, Rachel Cartwright, Kim Hill, Amy Clark, and Jill Schulteis.

Firestone employees answering the Chimes for Charity phone lines on Friday night. A total of $3,819 was raised with 43 children sponsored.

The 64th annual Chimes for Charity auction concluded on Sunday with a weekly total of $42,443 raised and 901 children sponsored.

The weeklong event was sponsored by the Dyersburg Jaycees, but a number of organizations and businesses gave their time to host the show each night. Viewers watching the broadcasts on television and the computer got to see bidding wars, soldiers doing pushups, famous celebrities, and happy dances.

Chimes for Charity Co-Chair Kim Hill said they might not have beaten last year's total of $46,284, but they exceeded the goal of $40,000 this year.

"It was a really good year, " said. "I was wondering if we were going to make our goal of $40,000 and we brought in $42,000. So, we are very happy."

The money will go toward a Christmas party for children who may not otherwise get to have a Christmas. The party will be held on Sunday, Dec. 23 at Three Oaks Middle School. The children will get a hot meal from McDonald's, clothing, and a toy.

Gracie Williams, granddaughter of Ninette Williams with Firestone, tries out the miniature recliner from Coleman's.

Larry Gibson (left) and Eddie Anderson (right) hosted Chimes for Charity on Saturday night, which was sponsored by First Citizens National Bank. The night ended with $11,283 raised and 340 children sponsored.

To be eligible for the party, applicants must go to the Chimes for Charity office at 111 W. Market St. in downtown Dyersburg to sign up their children. Forms will not be available until Dec. 1.

Co-Chair Amy Clark is also reminding winning bidders to follow through with their commitments by going to the Chimes for Charity office and paying for the items they won. She added that many items are left unpaid for and this puts a strain on the organization when they are attempting to furnish the party.

Items can be picked up at the Chimes for Charity office at 111 W. Market St. on the square, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 pm. For more information call 731-325-5520.

Amy Clark models a head wrap during the broadcast.