MAJOR PAUL JAMES
Hutchinson Salvation Army
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Salvation Army’s bells have returned to Reno County. Come and join The Salvation Army for their 2024 Red Kettle Kickoff on Nov. 21 at 6 p.m. at Grasshopper Park! Enjoy free hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas carols. The first 30 guests will receive bell ornaments to ring during the countdown to the lighting of the Giant Kettle.
Major Paul James and Hutchinson Police Chief Brice Burlie as The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign Chair will be helping to kick off the Red Kettle season. “We are honored to have Police Chief Brice Burlie as our Honorary Christmas Campaign Chair. We know that Chief Burlie is very busy in his position with serving the city of Hutchinson and isn’t normally able to agree to do something like this,” said Major Paul James. Chief Burlie will be at the Red Kettle Kickoff to share why he is supporting The Salvation Army’s efforts this season and how we as a community can help with the growing needs of our communities.
Chief Burlie is known for being a local resident with a good reputation for integrity and honesty and he certainly meets that criteria. Brice grew up in Hutchinson; has spent 25 years with HPD, working up through the ranks. He was Operations Captain (in charge of all street patrol activity) before being named Chief in August of last year (2023). He had been interim chief since June of '23 before being named Chief. Brice is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and graduated from Kansas State University before launching his police career. He is married with three children.
The Red Kettles help to raise additional funds to support The Salvation Army’s programs designed to support Reno County families in need. “This year we anticipate helping about 900 families with Dillons gift cards for Thanksgiving through our partnership with Project Concern, and families who have signed up for Christmas food baskets, and more than 1000 children who will receive toys, stocking stuffers, games, and blankets”, said Major James. Come and join The Salvation Army for a fun event and to learn more about how you can help support individuals and families in your community!