NORMAN ROCKWELL DIDN'T PAINT THIS SCENE.(CAPITAL REGION)

Byline: Dan Lynch

(A totally true news item:

At 10:30 p.m. Monday, an Albany man was arrested at Latham Circle Mall. Colonie police said he'd been shoplifting clothing and stuffing it into his 6-year-old son's backpack. He was taken into custody as he and the kid left the store.

The father was charged with petit larceny and endangering the welfare of a child.)

``Gee, Dad, this store sure is busy. Thanks for letting me stay up so late and come with you to the mall.''

``Well, it is Christmas, after all, Son -- a special time of year for youngsters like you. Say, do you like these sweaters here?''

``Uh, I guess, yeah.'' …