Operation Christmas 2010 Telethon Huge Success
The 24th annual CFC Operation Christmas Telethon was held at the New Harbor Mall in Fall River on December 3 through December 6. This event was once again a great success, raising thousands of dollars that will be used to purchase new toys for children who otherwise may not have any gifts from Santa Claus under the Christmas tree.
Mike Moran, Barbara Travis and Tom O'Grady speaking to the viewers on FRED TV
The face of of Operation Christmas, Barbara Travis, was on hand to greet local dignitaries, area vendors who had donated items to be auctioned and charitable groups that raised funds for the event. Many of the same volunteers participate every year, helping in any way they can, be it answering the phones to record bids on auction items or bringing the bids to volunteers who change the prices for auctioned items on the “big” board. Other volunteers record the winning bids and ensure that the identity of each auction winner is verified.
Members of the Bay Street Mechanics presenting a check for 1,500 dollars to Barbara
Items available to this year’s auction bidders included two Red Sox vs. Yankees game tickets (with limousine service to the game), Boston Celtics tickets, and autographed sports memorabilia.
Students from the B.M.C. Durfee High School FRED TV Program broadcast the entire three days of telethon activities to cable Channel 17 in Fall River. For the first time, Somerset and Swansea public access cable channels also carried the live feed from FRED TV.
FRED TV Students working hard to broadcast the telethon
As part of the Operation Christmas Telethon entertainment program, area youth groups sang holiday songs and older musicians provided plenty of live music for people walking through the New Harbor Mall.
Members of 'Day Old Funk' perform for the folks at the New Harbor Mall
When the Telethon came to a close on Sunday, the FRED TV students packed up their equipment and the many volunteers returned to their homes. Everyone involved in the Operation Christmas Telethon was a bit weary, but all were very satisfied that their work had helped to provide needy local children with gifts from Santa that would be waiting for them on Christmas morning.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!
