Spread some new year spirit

As I've said before, I'm not into futile gestures of support, especially ones that seem like a colossal waste of money like today's skywriting at the Rose Bowl Parade in support of the striking Hollywood writers. But here's something that can make a real difference: the WGA has finally made it easy to support those affected by the writers strike by opening up their Industry Support Fund to public donations.

The WGA fund will make grants to the Actors Fund (which I've previously made the case for) and other organizations who are already supporting all industry workers affected by the strike -- not just writers. It will also help people who aren't eligible under the criteria of those organization, or whose need is greater.

From the WGA:

Donations to the fund may be made to the Writers Guild Foundation. Please make checks payable to the Writers Guild Foundation and write "Industry Support Fund" in the memo section of the check and mail to The Writers Guild Foundation Industry Support Fund, 7000 West Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90048. Payment may also be made by credit card. Call (323) 782 4692 or go to www.wgfoundation.org.

Donations may also be made directly to The Actors Fund. Go to www.actorsfund.org for more information.