We all know that Santa is extremely busy this time of year and relies on his many elves and helpers to make the rounds and visit all of the children in our neighborhoods.

Among those who help are the local firefighters who provide him the opportunity to ride around on their firetrucks to wave and greet our children. One mother recently took to social media to criticize her local fire department for skipping her street while escorting Santa on his rounds. We’re not sure if it was an accidental or an intentional omission, if there was a time constraint or perhaps the street was not wide enough to allow Santa’s motorcade the space in which to turn around. What we did learn, however, is that the mother did not receive much sympathy on the social media site. Most supported their firefighters.

It reminds us of just how often our volunteers go above and beyond the call of duty. In addition to the hours of training and the actual response to all sorts of emergencies including fire, accidents and traffic and control at public events, most open their hearts to serve their community in other ways. In addition to helping Santa on his rounds, some fire departments actually embrace the role of Santa. Some, like the Walden Fire Department, adopt families to provide for at holiday time, Others collects toys and clothing for families in need and still others, like Wallkill FD will respond to letters to Santa.

Let’s remember all of the elves at this special season: our first responders and all of their associated charities, and everyone who somehow makes our life easier during the course of the year. Remember your child’s teachers, scoutmasters and youth soccer or Little League coaches this time of year, and thank them for their time and patience. If you’ve embraced the pandemic option of buying on-line, please remember all of those people who makes deliveries to your door: your local FedEx, Amazon, UPS and US Postal Service delivery people, not to mention your door dash and grocery delivery people. They all brave the elements and gloom of night on our behalf. Show them some love by leaving snacks and water for them. A card and cash also helps show our appreciation.

It’s a time to share and spread love, and time for us to extend our warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season.