Dear Army Of Good, I want to thank you, as I try to do often, and also to share my holiday plans with you, which I am trying to do more often. We are in this together, and I want you to know what I know.

First off, I’ve been thinking about the holidays and also about my focus with this work. I want to make sure all of you know where I am going.

I’ve been planning for the holidays for a couple of months, and I’ve set it up so that I won’t have to ask for any additional funds until the New Year. I’m sure some of you need a break and have other things to spend your money on over the next few weeks.

I have a little over $800 in the Mansion/Refugee account, I think that will last me into January. Some of the money is going to the residents so they can buy gifts, some to cookies and pastries I’m getting for the Mansion Aides.

I don’t like asking for money all the time, even if it is going for good, so I’m happy to give people a break. You need money this month as well (I think of those $5 donations).

We have a lot planned. There is a Christmas party, of course, and thanks for sending all those party favors and stocking stuffers. The residents appreciate your letters as well: The Mansion, 11 S. Union Street, Cambridge, N.Y., 12816.

Winnie, Ellen, Matt, Mary, Gerry, Sylvie, Alice, Jean, Madeline, Joan, Allan,  Bill, Blanche, Helen, Barbara, Alanna, Peggie, Dottie, Tim,  Ben, Art, Jackie, Guerda, Brenda, Wayne, Ruth.

We have the Karaoke Machine inauguration on November 28, 2 p.m. Next week, I begin a weekly reading to the Mansion residents, I think that will go on a permanent basis. They requested that I read to them regularly. I’m in.

We’ve given the Mansion aides each a $50 gift certificate and I’ve gotten them engraved pens. Over

I’ve also distributed some cash to the residents so they can buy their own gifts for friends and the aides.

I’m excited about the comfort doll/animal program, by the end of the week,  seven residents will have dolls, and I’ve ordered some realistic stuffed animals to see if the men want some nurturing and companionship as well.

NOTE: Refugees. I am continuing to work with the refugees and immigrants in the Albany area. I am looking for ways to change lives rather than simply offer money. Thanks to some Albany school teachers, I have located two gifted students and working with two private schools to get them full scholarships in their college prep programs. 

I am working as a middleman to connect these two gifted students with the right school for them, I am insisting on a full scholarship for them. I’ll keep you posted. It’s going well.

I want to make sure my effort changes lives, rather than simply provides a band-aid.We did well by Ali’s soccer team, they are in good hands now, with new sponsors that can support them. The new sponsors don’t want them appearing on the blog, they want to raise funds themselves.

We have also made certain that everyone who needs underwear, sweatshirts or flannel shirts or pajamas has them for the holiday season and the winter. I’m sure I’m leaving some things out but this list is getting long.

Thanks much, I’ll share these events as they unfold, of course. Happy holidays, you make all of this possible. We are making an enormous difference this holiday.