(Continued from page 7)

• Bells, whether attached to a sleigh or an ornament, are a universal sound of the holidays. Across South Dakota, the Salvation Army has bell-ringers outside shopping and grocery stores to raise money for their Red Kettle Campaign. This year, money raised goes directly to those impacted by the destruction of Hurricane Sandy, and I was glad to help raise money by ringing the bell in Brookings recently. I am so thankful that I have a home to return to, but many will be without this holiday season. I hope we all take the time to remember and offer a helping hand to those who may need a pick-me-up.
• I'm so blessed to have the opportunity to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior with my family, but there are many South Dakotans who are apart from their family and friends this holiday season. I think of our brave men and women currently serving in our armed forces who spend every day on the job. Recently, I had the opportunity to write cards to our troops overseas and to thank them for their tireless commitment to defend the values our country holds so dear. I would encourage South Dakotans to take the time to do something this holiday season to share love with our courageous service men and women abroad.
• From our family to yours, we wish you a very, merry (and hopefully white) Christmas and hope you have the opportunity to create lasting memories with friends and family.
•  Rep. Kristi Noem is South Dakota's lone U.S. Representative, elected in November 2010. She serves on the Agriculture, Education and Workforce and Natural Resources Committees.
•