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20 | THE COLONY NEWS | NOVEMBER 2020 | By Rita Nastri, 698-8640 Despite the 107 degree weather as I write this, the Colony Elf just realized that Christmas is just around the corner! It's time to let you know that she is already at work with the Southwest Riverside County Marine Corps League and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to once again provide and distribute toys to needy children. We also work very closely with the Armed Services YMCA at Camp Pendleton for distribution. I'm not sure that our new residents are aware of this wonderful program that has provided not only holiday gifts in the past, but also sends a message of hope which can motivate children to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders. This year, more than ever, your gifts will really help to allay the anxieties, frustrations and financial hardships that COVID-19 has brought. Over the 10 years that I have been doing this, The Colony residents have donated over 5,000 toys. "What?" you say! That's a great accomplishment, and you all need to congratulate yourselves for this. In the past, I have provided large Toys for Tots boxes in the Clubhouse Lobby and the Elf made special appearances at the Children's Christmas party, the Bridge Club Party and other occasions. Of course, we cannot be sure that the Clubhouse will be open for us to collect these toys or that the events will be taking place, but surely there must be many of us would like to continue with this program. The Y, therefore, has created Charity Lists with Amazon, Walmart and Target that will allow sponsors to participate in a COVID-friendly way. I would love to see us donate through this program. Here are the links to the three lists: • Amazon – https://amzn.to/2ZfowTe • Walmart – www.walmart.com/lists/view-events-registry- items?id=71ff731e-448b-4c87-96fa-c613ab43d1ed • Target – tgt.gifts/ASYMCACP You can begin your online shopping right now, but be sure to place your last order before Thursday, Dec. 10. That gives the real Elves a chance to organize the gifts. Additionally, if any club or organization or person would like to participate on a larger scale, the Y also provides a Santa's Workshop and Secret Santa. Those programs can be accessed at https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/gT5o7Rk/HolidayPrograms. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is an IRS recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity. Please join me in making this holiday special for as many kids as we can! Thank you all so much for your support in the past, and for your help again this year. How is your pet responding to the pandemic? Our Colony dogs and cats are already spoiled, but during this extended lockdown there are some special things we can all do to help them feel more comfortable with all of the changes. • Animals love music. Play music more often when you are with them or if you leave them for a short time. • Change the routine just a little. A different walk, a bit of a fresh chicken or fish with their kibble. Give a massage while you are watching the news. • Talk to them. Tell them what is going on. Assure them that you are all right and they will be all right too. They are aware that this is a stressful time and need to know it will be OK. ~ Kennel Club Steering Committee COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD