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Singing Salvation Army bell ringer in Arizona is hard to miss

Miguel "El Mamba" DeLeon is a professional musician who's giving back to the Salvation Army because the organization helped his family in a time of need.

Christmas is right around the corner and that means a lot of us have been out at the stores doing some last-minute shopping. 

Salvation Army bell ringers are all over the Valley, collecting donations to make a difference in the lives of thousands of people in need.

One bell ringer, in particular, dressed in a red Christmas-themed suit is hard to miss. Miguel “El Mamba” DeLeon, is one very special bell ringer. He brings charisma, a singing talent and a certain style.

When DeLeon shows up outside a store to ring the Salvation Army bell, he attracts a big crowd and that’s the way he likes it. 

Before settling in the Valley four years ago, DeLeon spent his life as a traveling musician. When he’s out ringing bells this holiday season you’ll hear him belt out Christmas favorites like "Feliz Navidad," "Jingles Bells" and "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." 

“I sound like this: Merry Christmas and add a little cha, cha, cha. It takes it over the top," DeLeon said. "They see this suit and they say what the heck and then they start smiling, so that’s a blessing."

His in-laws bought him the bright red suit as Christmas gift a few years ago. They thought it would be perfect for the guy who’s a little over the top himself.

DeLeon has been performing with the Salvation Army ringers for four years in Arizona. He decided to ring the bells to give back, for the help the organization gave him when his family needed it most. 

“My family has gotten help in other places I’ve lived. They helped me open the door to a lot of opportunities. It’s been a real blessing,” DeLeon said.

Outside a Surprise Walmart, shoppers sang along.

"Oh, he’s wonderful. I saw him as I was coming up and I thought to myself I have to dance with him. It’s great to see someone bringing joy this time of year," said Sarah Martinez. 

Some even stopped for photos. 

“I think he’s fabulous-he really makes you want to give,” said Judy Stein. She took photos of DeLeon with her friend Karen Cunningham. 

“I love how it brings a smile to their face and even if they’re in Phoenix and we have the sunshine, it’s still Christmas,” DeLeon said.

With Christmas closing in and his singing days running out, DeLeon says he will work just about every day, making sure he brings a smile and a "cha cha cha" to everyone this holiday season. 

“It’s a great thing and I’ll be doing this as long as the great Lord will let me,” DeLeon said. 

If you'd like to see DeLeon in action, the Salvation Army provided 12 News his schedule:

Wednesday, Dec. 19: Hobby Lobby near 76th Avenue and Bell Road

Thursday, Dec. 20: Fry’s near 107th and Grand avenues

Friday, Dec. 21: Safeway near N. Cotton Lane and Bell Road

Saturday, Dec. 22: Sam’s Club near 165th and Bell Road

Christmas Eve: Fry’s near 91st Avenue and Union Hills Drive

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