Don’t forget the young men and women who are still fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. If you’re a family member or school pal, a friendly note is always welcome, along with a thoughtful gift from those of us who appreciate their service to our country.

Send hometown happiness in the form of photos, CDs, DVDs, cake, cookies, candy, socks, toothpaste, iPods, cameras, chewing gum and dozens of other items that will make their overseas deployment a bit more endurable.

You can also send notes and gifts to organizations and designate them for any GIs they choose. And remember, Thanksgiving and the year-end holidays are not that far away. For more information, go to www.USO.org, anysoldier.com, www.sendingtosoldiers.com, and www.redcross.org