Radio Host Aims for Bell Ringing Record

"So far, so good."

Those were the words of Jeff Olsen, radio host at KOOL 108 and broadcaster at KARE-TV, Wednesday morning as he entered his 22nd hour of bell ringing outside the Cub Foods in St. Louis Park.

In conjunction with the annual Salvation Army Kettle Kickoff, Olsen is aiming for a new world record in nonstop bell ringing—30 hours.

"6:11 p.m. tonight will be the final bell ring," he said, "and then I'll hit the pillow."

Olsen started at 12:10 p.m. Tuesday. He said he was told to avoid drinking too much coffee at the start, but acknowledged that he started drinking a lot more Wednesday morning. Also Wednesday morning, he hosted his regular KOOL 108 morning show from beside his red kettle.

As of 10 a.m. Wednesday, Olsen had helped raise about $10,000 at the kettle and via his e-kettle online. While Olsen said he was thrilled to be able to help, he said the event isn't about him.

"It's about people who really need the money," Olsen said. "There's going to be a bigger need this year."

With a half-day to go, Olsen said his experience as a father of four—and the many sleepless nights that go with it—should help him hit his mark.

"I think I can do 30 hours," he said. "I think I can. I think I can."

For more on the annual red kettle fundraiser, visit the Salvation Army's website. You can also check out Olsen's live webcam above to track his progress.