To 'regift' or not to 'regift'… that is the question
By Jenna Buehler Comet writer-intern

Christmas is widely recognized as the season to give gifts to acquaintances young and old. Traditional standards of the gifting season have changed, however. A new fad called "regifting" is defined as the act of giving gifts previously received. Gift-giving amateurs and experts recently discussed the growing trend with the Comet.

The morality of this particular act was widely disputed among community members. Due to the controversy of this topic, all responders were provided pseudonyms.

"I think regifting is OK," said Carroll County native John Shoptiludrop. "I think it's acceptable. We all get stuff about this time of year that we don't need or want."

Other guilty givers refused to credit the act as acceptable.

"I try not to make a habit of it. I don't think it's a good thing, even though I am guilty of it," said Jill Soldout. "I don't think it's appropriate when a lot of people put thought into what they've purchased for you. If it doesn't come from your heart then it's not from you. But if it's something you know someone would really like, it may be acceptable.

Otherwise, I think it's insensitive," she added. "It's like you don't care."

Community members like Jan Regifteroo claim there is a particular etiquette to properly recycling unwanted gifts.

"I think it's important to personalize a regift. Don't leave it in the same gift bag, with your name scratched off of the label," explained Regifteroo. "Stick a little something else in with your regift. Something inexpensive that seems even more appropriate for your coworker or friend."

As reported by www.poyneronline.org, a Money Management International poll, more than half of 1,000 surveyed Americans thought regifting was an acceptable way to save money and a method of recycling. Eighteen percent claimed they felt happy and amused to receive a regift, while only ten percent said they felt angered or cheated.

In conclusion, many Carroll County members are on the same page as Americans worldwide. Regifting is the newest, guilt-free alternative to stashing gifts in the cluttered, mothball infested attic or closet.