. . . and Receiving

In contrast to Santa Ana’s example of giving, several cities in Orange County would like to be on the receiving end and are doing their best during this month’s Hanukkah and Christmas holidays to wind up on their residents’ gift lists.

Anyone who might be stumped over what gift a city would want need only look at some of the “wish-list” catalogues communities like Placentia, Buena Park and Westminster have put out.

For the city that doesn’t quite have everything, how about a park bench? Bats, balls and other athletic equipment can always be used by the recreation department in its youth activity programs. Some would like to have residents sponsor youngsters in programs.

With some cities it’s not how expensive the gift is--it’s the thought that counts. It doesn’t cost anything to volunteer your time to deliver meals to senior citizens or coach youth teams. Those items are included in Buena Park’s “gifts of love.” And those gifts are the best kind, no matter when they’re given, or to whom.