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There are many ways to observe the season

Re: Christ was and still is the reason for the season, letter by Len Vivolo, Dec. 7.

The reason for the season? Wouldn't that be about the Roman church of the third and fourth century A.D. co-opting the local winter festivals to appease or make new converts by using familiar pagan symbols such as a tree, mistletoe and Yule log?

What you need to know is that there are other people celebrating something at about the same time, and they have a right to celebrate, as protected under the Constitution you hold so dear.

When I address someone this season, I will continue to say, "Happy Holidays," as the word "holiday" is derived from the phrase "holy day."

So, Mr. Scrooge, I hope I do not have the misfortune to encounter you this holiday season - one so sour that you will reject a friendly, all-encompassing greeting.

Stolen Jesus figurine was treasured by owner

Someone out there found Jesus this Christmas season. Unfortunately, it was the one off my front lawn.

I would love to have him back when you are done with him. I can't replace something my deceased dad bought me 20 years ago.

You will have truly found Jesus Christ when mine is returned. I will pray for you.

Parents must help keep guns out of kids' hands

Re: Gun film is mom's mission, story, Dec. 4.

Let us hope that filming a re-enactment of the tragic death of Seanne Caroline, who was accidentally shot to death by a classmate (whose father had left a loaded gun under the couch), will live up to its intended purpose. That is, promoting gun safety to save lives by showing exactly what can (and did) happen when safety was not the No. 1 priority.

Jeanne Caroline, mother of Seanne, is one gutsy lady who is determined to drive her point home when it comes to keeping guns out of the hands of kids. If Caroline has her way, this film will be required viewing for all school-aged children kindergarten and up. It might be wise to include parents, too.

But as the saying goes, "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink." In order to make it work, it is essential for all of those parents who do own guns to do their part as well.

Bilirakis family's party was enjoyed by all

Folks seldom comment about Christmas parties, but when the Bilirakis family puts on a party, it's a real family affair. This was not a fundraiser, but just the Bilirakis family entertaining friends and constituents. The children were laughing and dancing, and folks were enjoying the evening just talking and laughing with family and friends (new friends, as well as old).

No alcoholic beverages were served - only coffee, soda and water.

The evening was a tribute to our veterans, and the guest speaker, singer Tony Orlando, was terrific. He told several stories of his times with Bob Hope as they entertained our troops overseas, and if you didn't tear up, your heart had to be stone. The only song he did, other than Christmas carols at the end of the evening, was Tie A Yellow Ribbon 'Round the Old Oak Tree, which also made us cry. His voice is as good as ever.

I was happy I was able to attend this family affair.

[Last modified December 9, 2005, 01:19:17]