This past week I had the opportunity to volunteer at two very important events in my hometown of Grand Forks- Santa’s Village, put on by the Grand Forks Park District and the Salvation Army, bell ringing. I first went to Santa’s Village at the Lincoln Park Golf Course clubhouse where I sat and visited with children and made crafts. There were many beautifully decorated trees that all had fun themes, my favorite was the lime green M&M tree. The whole area was swarming with little elves, most of which were high school volunteers. There were also sleigh rides and horse rides outside. Usually, by this time it is quite cold in North Dakota but this year it was nearly 35 degrees so the sleigh ride was wonderful! I was lucky enough to come the day Santa and Mrs. Claus came for a visit. While the children formed a line out the door, I had the chance to wish the Claus’s a very Merry Christmas and even take a photo with them. Thanks to Lynn, the organizer of the event, and to all the elves that volunteered their time to this great Christmas event.
The following Tuesday I rang the bell for the Salvation Army. My location was Macys in the Columbia Mall right next to Santa. My friend Liz and I spent the morning wishing shoppers a Merry Christmas and thanking them for their donations. After ringing, I stopped by my place of employment to say hi to my manager Christi and take a few photos, she and my other manager Anne have been huge supporters of mine since I began competing in the Miss America Organization.
This Christmas I am so thankful to have the opportunity to give back to my community. I love Christmas time when everyone is so giving and in the most cheerful mood, interacting with my community members during such a great time of year really makes me proud to be Miss Eastern Dakota. Merry Christmas, Readers!
Laura Harmon
Miss Eastern Dakota 2012
