'Tis the Season
By Al Naipo

A time for cheer, families, friends and celebration. Christmas,
Hanukkah and Kwanzaa-- faiths and traditions we hold dear this time of
year. The events of September 11th will undoubtedly alter how many view
this holiday season. Thousands of families will find it difficult to
rejoice and understandably so. It's imperative that those of us
unaffected by the national tragedies reach out to the grieving and
disheartened. That extension doesn't necessarily need to be in the form
of money, but that's a good start. Perhaps the best way to help the
families of the victims and the victims themselves is to offer help to
anyone in need. September 11th struck local charities right in the
pocketbook, as many generous individuals flocked to help those affected
by the attacks. Many of these fine local and national organizations do
herculean work to help others and rely solely on donations from caring and
compassionate individuals. They too deserve your dollars now more than
ever. Volunteering is also an excellent way to show you care. So, dig a
little deeper in your pockets and hearts to find a way to show what the
holidays are truly all about. After all...'Tis the Season.


About the Author

Al Naipo is a longtime News Reporter with KTTV in Los Angeles.