Re. the discussion over "merry Christmas" vs. "happy holidays":

As observed by anthropologist Wade Davis: "The world in which you were born is just one model of reality. Other cultures are not failed attempts at being you; they are unique manifestations of the human spirit."

The North Dakota in which we now live increasingly benefits from the myriad of cultures now represented within our communities. We have Jewish friends celebrating Hanukkah; our Indian friends have concluded their celebration of Diwali and Ramadan; last week, many of our families gathered for Christmas; and this week marks the beginning of Kwanzaa.

We believe that respecting the inherent worth and dignity of every person is a basic principle, integral to North Dakota's quality of life. As returning North Dakotans, we find that critical to our long-term commitment to our home state. So, in the spirit of that basic principle - happy holidays!