Many of us will open up presents this morning, surrounded by family and friends. There will be laughs, hugs and lots of joy on this holiday, as the gifts quickly get unraveled, and as we share a big meal with those we are closest to.

On a day where this is so much to be thankful for and appreciate of, don’t forget about our first responders, hospital workers and others that have to work on Christmas.

While we are taking the day off and hopefully enjoying the holiday, many of our police officers are patrolling our streets and battling crime and other issues. Our local firemen are on call, waiting for a Christmas tree to go up in flames or some other disturbance.

The hospital staff is there too, just in case of sickness or emergencies that require medical treatement.

These workers have jobs that require them to always be alert and even on Christmas, many of them must do their important and essential jobs.

It’s easy to take them for granted throughout the year, but it’s impossible to imagine a world where we don’t have them.

Also take some time to remember those serving our country, whether it be overseas or nearby. Many of them will celebrate the holidays without their families by their side this year.

We encourage everyone to hug their family members a little tighter, in rememberance of those who won’t be able to spend the holiday with their loved ones this Christmas.

We wish all of you good tidings and lots of joy on this holiday.

Merry Christmas everyone!