r u s ’ o g o y n h i n v i o W ft-g ? gi list By
LPM
T
he American Retail Federation reports that although Black Friday weekend sales decreased slightly from last year’s, 2013 total holiday sales are expected to increase 3.9 percent over last year, to $602 billion. Instead of battling frenzied shoppers at big box retailers in search of the latest gadgets, LPM invites you to check your list twice and consider thinking out of the box, and the gift wrapping paper. Instead of stretching your budget and buying presents your loved ones may not really need, or want, give a gift that keeps on giving. It’s simple. Ask yourself, what’s your loved one passionate about? Whether it is education, social services or the arts, there are numerous valley non-profits that could use a helping hand. Call them up or go on-line, and consider making a donation in the name of your loved one. Then, send them a card sharing the good news about your donation on their behalf. Giving is contagious, and every little bit counts! Maybe they’ll respond in kind. If there are children on your list, or in your brood, consider spending uninterrupted, old-fashioned, quality time together. Valley resident and composer, Ira Weitz, shares his take on how to foster ingenuity and creativity with “The Imagination Starter Kit.”
latinopm.com
¡ December 2013!
Latino Perspectives Magazine
21