There's a Christmas tradition in our area that we encourage all of our readers to take part in. Next time you are in Topps, grab a tag off a tree to help the Christmas Express lend a hand to families in need of warm clothes, coats and small gifts.

It’s a pretty simple process -- buy what's on the tag, and return the gift with the tag taped to the gift by December 13 -- and presto, you will have bought joy to a child or family!!

The Express organizers will also take donations of wrapping paper and Scotch tape, ribbons and bows.

You can also give by buying raffle tickets at the annual basket raffle, part of Schroon’s Olde Tyme Christmas Celebration Weekend Saturday December 13 and Sunday, December 14.

Tickets for the baskets will be available at the Chamber offices on Saturday, between 12 noon and 8 pm. The chamber is also reaching out to area merchants for gift baskets. All proceeds go back to the less fortunate in our communities, according to Patty Mehm, owner of the Towne Store and one of the organizers.

And if you can’t make it here, your checks will happily be accepted. Mail them to Christmas Express, C/-276 Alder Meadow Rd, Schroon Lake, NY 12870.