WHEREAS, the Salvation Army, or East London Christian Mission as it was first known, was founded by William and Catherine Booth in 1865.

WHEREAS, due to its rapid growth and expanding membership, the Christian Mission became The Salvation Army in 1878.

WHEREAS, The Salvation Army started its work in Alaska in 1898 and today serves people in 15 communities across our state, from Fairbanks to Klawock, as well as serving people around the globe in more than 110 countries and on all continents.

WHEREAS, The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church and its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

WHEREAS, in 1891 in San Francisco, kettles were placed for the first time throughout the city in the attempt to raise funds for the needy, homeless, poor, and desperate.

WHEREAS, The Salvation Army today assists more than 42 million people throughout the United States, helping individuals and families change their lives and rebuild their losses.

WHEREAS, the State of Alaska recognizes the important charitable work of The Salvation Army and encourages Alaskans to support the kickoff of the Red Kettle campaign on Thursday, November 15, 2007.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sarah Palin, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim November 15, 2007, as: 

Red Kettle Day

in Alaska, and encourage all citizens to give to local charities.

[added]Governor Palin was on the board of the Salvation Army before being elected.

Dated: November 13, 2007