Bob Mulholland is the staunchest of Democrats. He’s the Communications Director for the state Party.  But for the “Operation Christmas” kickoff at the state Capitol the Vietnam veteran set aside politics. He stood holding a big brown Teddy Bear to urge everyone to get involved.  

“Kids who have a parent, an uncle a sister or a brother away should have the best holiday possible so give them a toy!”

The goal of Yellow Ribbon America’s fifth annual event is to deliver things—such as toys and gift certificates-- to more than 300-thousand military members and their families from California, Arizona and Nevada. Organizers say this year’s efforts are particularly important—the weak economy has put even more strain on military members’ families. Most California lawmakers will be accepting donations at both their Capitol and district offices.