PLEASE MAKE SURE THE SALVATION ARMY'S TREE OF LIGHTS IS ON YOUR TO-DO LIST

Throughout the holidays, shoppers will hear the ringing of bells just about everywhere they go. These are the Salvation Army's bell ringers who draw attention to kettles where passers-by can make contributions. And a large, light-laden evergreen at West Park Mall is a reminder for the entire community of the Salvation Army's annual Tree of Lights campaign, which raises about half of the organization's annual budget.

The Salvation Army's work in the community is well-known and highly regarded. those who are in need can usually count on the Salvation Army to be there. but meeting so many needs, even in a prosperous community like Cape Girardeau, requires a lot of money.

This year's Tree of Lights goal is $220,000. Help with rent, food the hungry and toys and Christmas food baskets for nearly 1,000 families are the top needs.

As always, this year's Tree of Lights campaign will raise all or most of its goal. That's because this is a generous community that has always found ways to help those who need help.

Please put the Tree of Lights campaign on your list of things to do this holiday season. For all the good the Salvation Army does throughout the year, it deserves our support and our financial contributions.