Near the holidays times get tougher for some folks.

The cold cuts more when you don’t have enough money for heat and the already sparse room looks that much more bleak without a tree surrounded by presents.

Some people become desperate and take from others. Some people seize the opportunity and steal.

Regardless of the motive you need to be prepared.

On Friday Selma will have two events to help you and others.

First, the Angel Tree will kick off at 1:30 p.m. at the Selma Mall. What is a better way to show what Christmas is all about than to give a to a family in need?

Next is a Women’s Rape and Domestic Prevention Seminar at 6 p.m. at Karate World.

It might seem odd why this would fit in with the holidays, but the seminar will teach self-defense moves and tips for keeping safe. Both of these lessons can help out in the larceny filled holiday season.

The seminar also will teach about what to do if you find yourself in a domestic violence situation. November is domestic violence month.

So Friday help Christmas be very merry for some local kids, and also learn how to watch out for yourself this season.