MIDLAND, Texas — You might've seen, or heard, Midland first responders ringing bells this holiday season.
As part of the Red Kettle Campaign, the Salvation Army and the City of Midland held a friendly competition between the Midland Police Department and Midland Fire Department.
The competition had the two departments ring bells in Midland over the holidays.
After tallying the final numbers, MFD was crowned the winner Thursday, bringing in about $1,500.
"Well, you know, it's a fun challenge," Fire Chief Charles Blumenauer said. "And you know, we're competitive. [M]PD's competitive. So yes, we thought we'd win. It was kind of a cold, rainy day. So we were a little worried that because of the cold weather, it might be a detriment to us. It may have actually played in our favor, because I think the community saw us out there in the elements. They just wanted to pitch in and help out."
The two-day ringing event raised over $2,100 between the two departments.
The Salvation Army hopes to continue the friendly challenge next year and raise the stakes even higher by bringing in the Midland County Sheriff's Department to join the fun.