All right, I've had several weeks to rest and recuperate from our huge 9/11 event.  Now it's time to start ramping up for another project! 

Veterans Day is only a month away and I thought what better way to acknowledge it than to send cards and letters to some of our Illinois veterans including those living in Veterans homes permanently.

Although I don't have all the numbers yet, I wanted to invite everyone; schools, clubs, organizations and individuals to participate by writing letters or cards of thanks to our wonderful men and women who have served our country.   It's important to acknowledge and thank them, whether they served in combat or here at home.  They were prepared to do whatever it takes to defend our country and freedom around the world and for that we owe them a huge debt of gratitude.

When I get all of the figures together, I'll know how many veterans we'll be serving divided by the number of pieces of mail we receive.  My goal is at least 5,000 pieces of mail!  I know we can do it.  If we were able to collect over 5,000 pairs of shoes, then there's no doubt that we'll be able to reach this goal!

What should you write about?  You can thank them for their service, tell them they're remembered more than one day a year, tell them about someone you know who was/is in the service.  Speak from the heart....keep it positive.  Cards and letters cannot be sealed.   If they are, unfortunately they will have to be opened to be checked.  Don't put any glitter or other objects in the letters or cards.   Remember NOT to include any personal information such as last name, phone, email or address. 

Remember to have a great time writing these notes because they'll mean so much to the veterans who are receiving them.  It will really be the highlight of their day!

Because finances are limited (actually I have none), it isn't possible to mail individual packets to specific people.  However, if you would like to send something to a veteran you know, you can pick up a packet from me and mail them yourself.  They would be ready to go in an envelope and you can supply the postage.  To do that, just email me at branthonypublishing@yahoo.com with your first and last name and I'll prepare a packet(s) for you that can be picked up beginning any time after Saturday, October 29th at my house.   I'll have a container on the front porch with the packets to be picked up in it.   Your name will be clearly affixed to the packet(s). 

Donations to help defray the mailing costs would be greatly appreciated!   It doesn't have to be a lot.  

We must have all cards/letters returned NO LATER than Friday, October 28th.   On Saturday, October 29th, they will be divided and boxed to send to each of the VA and other facilities who are participating.  

Volunteers are needed for Saturday morning, October 29th, at 9:00 a.m.  I think we'll be meeting at the Holiday Inn on Route 30.  I have to double check.  Plan on being there until approximately noon.   We'll serve rolls and coffee.  Just think, you don't have to show up at 4:30 a.m. this time!

Drop off points:  My front porch will once again have a tub with a sturdy lid because of the inclement weather.   Other drop-off locations for the mail will be given in the next several days so please watch for that information.

Remember, there's no time like the present to tell our veterans that you care.  Let's all help to make this a Veterans Day they'll never forget. 

As always...remember to live an inspired and patriotic life!