Red Kettle Challenge yields more than $8,700

Metro Wire Staff

Crews from local law enforcement and fire agencies spent off-duty hours ringing bells on Dec. 8, a friendly challenge between departments to raise the most money for the Salvation Army.

According to figures released by the Salvation Army’s 2018 spokesman John Charewicz, former Portage Co. Sheriff, this year’s challenge brought $8,710.90 in donated funds for the cause.

The Plover Police Department came out on top this year, raising $3,070.07. Chief Dan Ault said it’s due in part to the community spirit seen throughout the village, but also the vocal talents of Ofc. Jeff Thomas, who along with his family, serenades passersby with Christmas carols every year.

Stevens Point firefighters came in second, having raised $2,081,04.

Total amounts follow:

Plover Police: $3,070.07
Stevens Point Fire: $2081.04
Plover Fire: $1,194.49
Portage Co. Sheriff’s Office: $1,170.83
Stevens Point Police: $610.71
Park Ridge Fire: $301.47
Wisconsin State Patrol: $282.29

This year’s fundraising goal for the Stevens Point Salvation Army is $200,000.