This past holiday season, a group of Hicksville High School students known as Liz (Simon) and the Carolers sang at homes in their local neighborhoods. They are a group of young people who enjoy singing, each other's friendship and spreading holiday cheer through their music. While caroling in these areas in previous years, they were surprised when several people offered them money. They were embarrassed, as they were doing this for fun, not to benefit themselves.

This year, they were prepared. Knowing that I have several charitable contacts on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota and knowing of the impoverished conditions in this area, this group of students offered to donate any money they collected to Pine Ridge Reservation. A handout about Pine Ridge was prepared, informing people about the reservation.

On Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004, these 18 young people, in the pouring rain, set out caroling. You might remember this was a week of horrendous weather. Even under these circumstances, they raised over $30, which was promptly donated to the emergency heating fund in the Kyle, SD area.

Often we hear troubling, selfish news about our teens. I wanted to share with you this good news about a group of your students.

Brenda S. Smith