The Union County Healthy Start Program has a few little elves helping out this holiday season - and welcomes your support!

If you would like to contribute to the "Bucks for Baby Formula" drive, stop by Red Cross Drug Store in downtown La Grande.

If you are interested in helping the "Bucks for Baby Books" campaign, stop by Sunflower Books or the Expressions Salon in La Grande.

In the month of December, Albertsons is also accepting "Dollars for Diapers" at their La Grande location.

All contributions will go to support babies in the Union County Healthy Start Program. Happy Holidays!

Helpful Party Hints for Responsible Hosts

Be a good host…

Serve non-alcoholic beverages. Make them inviting and accessible.

If serving alcoholic punch, use a non-carbonated base. Carbonation enhances the body’s absorption of alcohol.

Do not rush to refill glasses.

Stop serving alcoholic drinks about 2 hours before the party is over to allow time for absorption.

Always serve food – high protein foods are ideal for many reasons.

Do not serve a guest who is visibly intoxicated.

Do not serve anyone under the age of 21 an alcoholic drink.

Watch for the warning signs of someone who has consumed too much, including a lack of coordination, rambling conversation, or radical changes in behavior.

Although most of your guests will show good judgment in regards to their alcohol consumption, some will not. You are ultimately responsible for the safety and wellbeing of your guest. Be sensitive but be stern and have a plan: make arrangements for alternative transportation home, offer them a place to sleep, take their keys away. Do whatever it takes to keep your friends off the road and encourage all your guests to wear their seatbelts.

Celebrate life this holiday season.