Volunteer Shows the True Meaning of the Holidays

DULUTH - Although the Salvation Army discourages bell ringers from sitting down during their shifts, in Mike Maghan's case, there is an exception. He rang an entire 230 hours last Christmas season and single–handedly raised more than $10,000 for the Duluth Salvation Army and he's at it again this year. Ringing three, six–hour shifts per week in the comfort of a folding chair equipped with two wool blankets. And even through the bitter cold, he is still out there ringing the little red bell and encouraging northlanders to do the same. "I enjoy the people smiling, and all the stories I get to hear about how it has helped them out. We need more help," Maghan said.Since 2006, he has rang more than 1,400 hours and raised nearly $70,000.  He's collected at least $10,000 in each of the past four years.