EDITORIAL: The reason for the season [Culpeper Star-Exponent, Va.]

Dec. 22--With presents to buy, feasts to cook and relatives to welcome, it's easy to get overwhelmed during the Christmas season. But with all the happiness and cheer that surrounds us this time of year, it's even easier to forget those who may not be sharing in that joy.

There is sure to be a few trees standing without presents under them this year thanks to an economy that is unstable at best. That's why those who give of themselves, especially during the holidays, deserve our admiration and gratitude.

Two Culpeper organizations recently did just that. The Wayland Blue Ridge Baptist Minister's and Deacon's Union brought Christmas joy to area children with a shopping spree at Walmart.

The group, consisting of ministers and deacons from 35 churches, hosted 21 children at Walmart and helped them pick out $50 worth of toys, clothes or whatever their little hearts desired.

The Christmas season certainly isn't all about presents, but putting a smile on a small child's face has to be one of the sweetest gifts one can give.

Culpeper businessman Billy Frederick decided to give the gift of warmth this season with a coat drive. The Central Virginia Insurance agent has gathered at least 115 jackets for needy children over the last couple weeks.

Frederick has already delivered several coats to Pearl Sample, Floyd T. Binns and Eastern View, and he's also collecting clothes, gloves, boots and hats.

A huge thank you goes out to Frederick, the Wayland Blue Ridge Baptist Minister's and Deacon's Union and everyone who is looking out for their neighbor this holiday season.

___

(c)2011 the Culpeper Star-Exponent (Culpeper, Va.)

Visit the Culpeper Star-Exponent (Culpeper, Va.) at www2.starexponent.com

Distributed by MCT Information Services