Mall lets volunteers return — sans bells

STROUDSBURG, Pa. (AP) — Salvation Army volunteers again have permission to solicit donations in Stroud Mall — but only without their ringers.

The mall recently banned the bell ringers after merchants and customers complained they were too noisy. They had been there for more than 15 years.

"We're thrilled," said Capt. Mark Mackneer, director of the East Stroudsburg Salvation Army.

He said his group bans bell ringing inside buildings, but many organizations that help out apparently weren't aware of the policy.