MICHIGAN CITY, December 22, 2025 – The results are in for this year’s Red Kettle Ring Off, and Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch of Michigan City has claimed victory in the annual “Battle of the Mayors,” raising a total of $11,414.41 in support of The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign. Mayor Tom Dermody of La Porte raised a total of $5,922.

The friendly competition took place on Friday, December 19, as Mayor Nelson Deuitch and Mayor Dermody each rang bells and encouraged donations in their respective communities. Mayor Angie’s winning total included a generous $5,000 donation from Phoenix Construction, along with contributions from donors and supporters throughout Michigan City.

“I’m honored to have won this year’s Battle of the Mayors, and I’m incredibly proud of the generosity shown by our Michigan City community,” said Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch. “But the real winners are the families across La Porte County who will be supported by The Salvation Army this holiday season. Whether donations were made in Michigan City or La Porte, every dollar stays right here to help our neighbors in need. Thank you to Mayor Dermody for being a great partner in this friendly competition. And to everyone who gave so generously — your kindness is what truly makes this season special.”

Mayor Dermody praised the spirit of collaboration between the two cities and emphasized that the annual rivalry remains focused on helping those in need across La Porte County. “Congratulations to City and, most importantly, this is great for The Salvation Army,” he said.

Majors Dale and Becky Simmons, who oversee The Salvation Army of Michigan City and The Salvation Army of La Porte, expressed gratitude to both mayors and their communities for another successful Battle of the Mayors. “This friendly competition continues to be a powerful reminder of what our communities can accomplish when they come together,” said Major Dale Simmons. “We are incredibly thankful for Mayor Angie, Mayor Tom, Phoenix Construction, and every individual who donated. These funds will make a real difference for families who rely on our services during the holidays and throughout the year.”

Funds raised through The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign help provide food and toys to local families during the holidays and support year-round services including food pantries, weekend backpack programs, diaper assistance, summer camp, spiritual care, case management, and more throughout La Porte County.

Online donations toward the Christmas Campaign may be made through the end of the year at salarmy.us/laportevrk2025 or salarmy.us/michigancityvrk2025. Additional information about local Salvation Army programs and services is available at www.samichigancity.org and www.salaporte.org.