by John Miller

Managing editor

This and that (with a holiday theme):

- WATCH OUT: While the holidays bring out much of what is good in the world, it is also a time when criminals try to prey on unsuspecting victims.

Use common sense, park in well-lighted areas, don't leave packages visible in your car, lock your doors and windows and leave house lights on. Contact area police for other helpful safety tips.

A number of area communities have begun Neighborhood Watch programs. For those unfamiliar with the concept, it's a nationally organized program that advocates watching out for your neighbors.

Of course in West Virginia, it's good to think we just do that out of common courtesy. But sometimes that isn't the case.

Try to help out your neighbors this time of year (and year-round). If you know they aren't going to be in town, keep an eye out for any strangers and don't hesitate to call the police.

- LIGHTS OUT?: How many of us spent time this past week getting out our Christmas lights?

Well, it's that time of year again, and I'm again on the lookout for great Christmas light displays.

Does your neighbor's house glow like a nuclear reactor? Are your lights so prominent that you get thank-you cards from Allegheny Power?

Send me a note at P.O. Box 2000, Clarksburg, WV 26301 or e-mail me at jmiller@exponent-telegram.com to tell me where some of the area's awesome light displays can be found.

I'll share them with readers, and we'll all get in the holiday spirit.

- FESTIVE EVENTS: Another way to experience a great holiday season is to enjoy the many concerts, programs and pageants held throughout our area.

I've already mentioned that the annual Lessons and Carols program will be held 8 p.m. Dec. 20 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Clarksburg. This event is non-denominational and will feature music by the Madrigals, the Larry Parsons Chorale and the Chanticleer Children's Chorus. There will also be biblical readings from several clergy and lay people, plus a reception hosted by the Women's Club of Clarksburg.

The event is free, but requires tickets. To reserve tickets, call 842-6231 or 624-7282.

And I encourage other groups sponsoring special programs this month to send us word. We'll be happy to publish brief announcements of the event in our calendar of events, which appears daily.

- MEMORIES: Have a Christmas tradition you want to share with our readers? Maybe a special holiday from the past that reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas?

Send me a note or e-mail, and I'll use it in an upcoming column.

Readers have indicated they love to hear others' holiday memories to get more in the spirit of the season. Please help by sharing your memories today.

Managing Editor John G. Miller can be reached at 626-1473 or by e-mail at jmiller@exponent-telegram.com