Dear Santa: It's been quite a while since I've written you. I'm sure you'll recognize me if you look at my picture and add a little imaginary hair. I suspect I had bangs in my last known photo on file at the North Pole.

Anyway, this particular letter isn't really about me, so I don't expect you to make note or comment on whether I've been naughty or nice.

The reason I'm writing today is that I've wound up with something that is yours - three things, actually.

One of the many hats I wear here at work is that I am the official last resort for letters that no one else knows where to put.

Normally this means loads of sales offers, any sort of official looking government letter, etc. But somehow, through the holiday rush, a few letters intended for you wound up on my desk.

Now before you go putting an "X" beside a few postal employees' names, take a few things into account.

The postal workers work extremely hard, especially in the holiday season, so a few tiny mistakes here and there are perfectly acceptable.

Also, given some of the snow we've had recently our area did resemble the North Pole, if only a bit.

My hope is that you'll be reading this online and catch it in time for next week's big night.

One child here in Ironton, you know which one, wanted to wish you a "Happy Crismas." The letter goes on to say that you, Santa, are the "best ever." I know, I know, it's probably a shameless, last minute plug, but give the child points for learning how to grease the wheel. The traditional round of milk and cookies will be left, the letter continues, but if they forget, please forgive.

A second letter came from Allison, you know her last name. Remember what she got last year?

She wants a Lizzie McGuire sleeping bag and flash talk game, a "tumdling mat," a Bratz doll and a Kim Possible Game Boy game.

Last but not least, please remember that one special child here in Lawrence County is going to Florida for Christmas. That child wanted to remind you to work out the delivery of presents to avoid conflicting with their travel.

The list includes lots of stuff, you know it already, I'm sure, but just to refresh your memory: money (to buy a dog house), Bratz dolls, Monkey stuff, clothes and a few other items.

I know it's late, so you may not be able to get in touch with their parents to make sure the gifts are OK to send, but see what you can do.

Thanks for your help. Stop by and see us when you get rested up after next week.

Your balding friend and still child at heart, Kevin.

Kevin Cooper is publisher of The Ironton Tribune. He may be reached by calling (740) 532-1445 ext. 12 or by e-mail to kevin.cooper@irontontribune.com.