Open Forum: Now is the time for you to be a mentor

You have heard about it. Kinship - mentors. You have thought about it. You have decided it is worthwhile and that someday you will do it.

It is a busy time of the year, but it is also the time of thinking of others. Now, during the 100 Mentors in 100 Days campaign, is the time to pick up the phone and call Kinship to start the process. You will be happy you did - for the community, for the one you mentor, but finally for yourself.

Dick Breen

Brainerd

Making Christmas memories

A few days ago, I asked our clinical director what she hears from the kids about their Christmas memories. The kids she says can't name "a favorite Christmas" because in their homes, it's usually like any other day of year. Also, she says, they can't name a favorite gift because mostly they don't remember receiving one.

I was struck with a sadness I don't often feel but have resolved to create some Christmas memories. Christmas at PORT has generally been wonderful for our kids, due mostly to the generosity of the community. With your gifts and donations we have been able to provide each child with a personalized gift, Christmas stockings stuffed with assorted goodies and a delicious Christmas dinner.

This holiday, PORT Group Homes is home to approximately 22 girls and 13 boys, ages 12-16. The kids in our care often arrive at PORT with just the clothes on their backs and are grateful for simple things like sweatshirts, t-shirts, hoodies, stocking caps, gloves, puzzles, books for journaling, art supplies, models, games, toiletries like lotion and shampoo, watches, lip gloss and gift cards.

For over 35 years, PORT Group Homes has served at-risk kids in Brainerd. Please help us spread the joy this season with a gift or cash donation. We'll take care of the turkey and making the day memorable. Send donations to PORT Christmas Fund, P.O. Box 488, Brainerd, Minn., or drop off gifts at our administration office behind the Dairy Queen. To have a gift picked up in town, call (218) 828-6274. Our kids will thank you.

Karen Johnston

Executive Director

PORT Group Homes

It's easy to ask for money

Did anyone besides me find it interesting that on Wednesday's newspaper one side talked of reducing the budget with possible layoffs and the other side of the paper was about a pay raise for county elected officials. Politicians want us to elect them to do a job but when they cannot manage what they have they come back to the taxpayer asking for more. It is no different with the school board. It is easier to ask for more money than to manage the resources you have. Can any of us manage our own finances that way? Maybe I am missing something, maybe I am stupid, or maybe our elected officials think the taxpayers are stupid.

Keith Riedel

Brainerd