McKenzi Novell, Miss Spokane 2012, now holds the world record for the longest standing female Salvation Army bell ringer. She stood outside in the cold weather without eating, sitting, or sleeping for 52.5 hours—all while continuously ringing the red handheld bell.

The last female record holder made it twenty-seven hours. The current world record is held by three men who went seventy-nine hours.

In Spokane, the bell ringing competition was called the "last man standing" between the "beauty" and the "beast." Miss Spokane—the beauty—won the competition after Spokane Salvation Army Captain Kyle—the beast—conceded at fifty-one hours. Marcus Riccelli, incoming Washington State Representative from the third legislative district, also competed against Miss Spokane and Captain Kyle. Riccelli stood for fourteen hours before he conceded.

Miss Spokane and Captain Kyle raised approximately $10,000. The competition began at 5 a.m. on Thursday, December 20, and ended on Saturday, December 22. The competition was initiated as a last minute fundraiser for the Salvation Army after reports of donations being lower than expected.

Source: Cheri Moore Photo 1: Chris Bornhoft