I'm a decent tipper, almost always giving a tip of at least 15%, even for bad service. But I'm iffy when it comes to my newspaper carrier. Sometimes, I drop something in the mail for the carrier. Sometimes, I don't. This year I did -- $20. And I plan to continue to do so. During the recent frigid weather, I was up late one night when I heard the carrier drop the newspaper onto my porch. It made me think about the work and weather hazards my carrier faces -- and I'm in a relatively easy route in town -- daily. Impassable roads. Lousy weather. Grumpy cuss-tomers. I gladly tip my hair stylist 20% and more for 15 minutes of work (and consider her worth every nickel). But I balk at my newspaper carrier. Someone who provides a valuable service to me 24/7/365. Mea culpa. I won't hesitate again.

Question: Do you tip your paper carrier? Who else is deserving of a tip at this time of the year?