One day a year is set aside to pay war veterans special homage, and I hope that you do so. If you know a veteran, please call and thank him. If you are a veteran, I thank you and salute you for your service and love of country.</p><p><b> Christmas Market</b></p><p>The Los Banos Arts Council Christmas Market, Dec. 10-11, is seeking ornaments for its community Christmas tree. The lighted 7-foot tree, donated by Barbara and Tony Dutra of Santos Ford, will be raffled off on Dec. 11. Raffle tickets are $5 and available by calling 826-0874 or 827-0667. The goal of the Christmas Market is to bring a spirit of unity to Los Banos.</p><p><b> Bite out of crime</b></p><p>The best guard against theft is a watchful neighbor, so please check into a Neighborhood Watch sign. Put in motion detector lights, keep your house well-lit, keep bushes trimmed away from windows and lock all windows and doors. Do not leave your car unlocked or keys in your car. Do not leave newspapers or fliers on your door or porch. If you are going to be away, have a neighbor remove them. Have your home lights put on a timer so it appears someone is home. Don't leave packages visible in your car. Have your keys ready and in your hand before you go outside or leave a store. Keep your purse close. </p><p><b>Thoughts, concerns</b></p><p>John Borba's valiant battle has ended. My sympathy to his wife, Maria, and family.</p><p>Continued prayers go out to Hal and Margie Lagmay as they go through this difficult time. Our prayers are with you.</p><p>Laverne Cardoza sends along her best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery to Sophie Hume, who is at Saint Agnes Hospital.</p><p>My wishes for a complete recovery to my friend Evelyn Erreca, who broke her hip. My condolences to her as well on the recent death of her mother. You are in my prayers, Evelyn.</p><p><b>Anniversary bells</b></p><p>Happy fifth wedding anniversary to my granddaughter Amanda and her husband Craig Gonzales. </p><p><b>Congratulations</b></p><p>At the recent Western Fundraiser of the First Baptists Church Project Jabez, I had the fun of helping choose the best-dressed western costume of George Montereo. His wife of four weeks, Pauline, was dressed so cute we wish we could have given her a prize as well. The senior lovebirds met at the mailbox, how could you not love that story? They were delightful.</p><p><b>Harvest dinner </b></p><p> Saturday is United Methodist Church's Fall Festival Dinner from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Cornish game hen, rice pilaf, salad green beans, dessert and drink are $15 for adults and $7 for children. Call 826-4181.</p><p><b>United we stand </b></p><p>If I say something, I try to back it up with action. That is why I stood for two hours last weekend in front of Lowe's for local jobs and against corporate greed. I am part of the 99 percent, as I am betting most of you are. United we stand, always has been true, always will be, and until next time, may all your news be good news.