Dear Neighbors,

I hope your holiday preparations and plans are going well. This is indeed a busy time for most people! I recently had a friend contact me regarding a nationwide effort that originated in Alaska, and as you enjoy yourself this season, I ask that you might keep this in mind.

First Lieutenant Paul Gonzalez of Anchorage is currently serving with the 173rd Airborne Brigade as an Executive Officer for Delta Battery, 319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment in Iraq. Through his role as a City Advisor, Lt. Gonzalez realized the school children in and around the northern Iraqi town of Altun Kopri desperately needed school supplies. Last fall, he contacted his parents about those needs.

Through Annie and Rene Gonzalez and the Anchorage community, "Operation Golden Bridge" has sent boxes upon boxes of school supplies overseas. Their work has spurred national involvement and attention -- 47 states have joined the cause. Please see the MercyCorps website for more information at http://www.mercycorps.org/items/1610.

The extensive efforts have made a difference in Altun Kopri and hopefully, by continued outreach, "Operation Golden Bridge" can provide assistance to many more needy students in neighboring communities.

I recently learned of Lt. Gonzalez's and his parents' efforts to bring school supplies to these children. In support of this cause, my staff and I are collecting school supplies. If you would like to help in this effort, please bring your donations to my office through the month of December. I will, in turn, get all donated items to the Gonzalez family. They have arranged for free and discounted shipping.

Some ideas for school supplies you can donate are notepads, pens, pencils, colored pencils, chalk (colored and white), paper, folders, erasers, markers, stickers, calculators, and stationery. Whatever we send will be screened for cultural sensitivity by interpreters and members of the schools' faculties. Coloring books illustrating Alaska are also welcome!

In addition, monetary donations can be made payable to "Bridge Builders" in care of Mrs. Gonzalez at:

Anne Gonzalez
11821 Toy Drive
Anchorage, AK 99515

A receipt for your donations will be treated as tax deductible.

If you are interested in donating, please call my office at 269-0181 or stop by at 716 W. 4th Avenue, Suite 400. I look forward to seeing you!

Thank you for your help. Happy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year!

Sincerely,

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