Daily News Editorial

When artist J.D. Speltz told Emmet County Relay For Life members Monday night he hoped they didn't have trouble selling limited edition prints as a fundraiser, they laughed.

Those folks know how to raise money.

And you can bet they'll do it again this year, probably going well over $100,000 as they have in previous years. They'll get more than a little help too from Speltz whose generosity toward local causes is legendary.

No doubt, the Relay For Life teams will find it very easy to sell the prints which are only $35. Even including matting and framing, the limited edition print sells for about a third of what you would expect. And it also doesn't hurt to have a nationally acclaimed artist living in your backyard who is willing to do a limited edition print for your fundraiser.

Another group met Tuesday noon at the First Christian Church in Estherville. This time, it was members of the Estherville Area Ministerial Association who were putting their heads together to help promote the ecumenical Thanksgiving service that will be held 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22 at Crossroads Community Church in Estherville. At the service, they'll take two offerings - one to help the homeless passing through Estherville and the other to help the Community Christmas Project. In 2008, 824 persons had a far better Christmas because of the dedication and commitment of these fine people.

What is unusual about Estherville and Emmet County is that these are not isolated incidents of giving. Whenever they're asked, people and businesses are willing to open their hearts - and their wallets - to help those in need.

All through the year, people help other people in Emmet County. It might be someone who has a serious illness, someone who lost a home to fire or someone who had a serious accident. Help will be on its way immediately.

So this holiday season - just like the rest of the year - keep giving as you have in the past. And if you need help, don't hesitate to ask.

Because this is where you'll find it.