To the editor:

It is truly amazing how generous so many people and organizations are in the weeks leading up to Christmas. It is equally amazing how many struggling North Country children and families benefit from this spirit of giving. Under the magical direction of our own Cheri Reynolds, social services staff work hard to keep up with the massive influx of donations of toys and clothing and emergency fund money, spending extra time coordinating, receiving, wrapping, delivering bags of gifts for families and kids who would otherwise feel the sting of very “un-special” holidays.

On behalf of the magic of the season, we wish to thank the following individuals and organizations: Adirondack Health Institute staff, St. Elizabeth’s Church family, St. Phillip Neri Church family, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation staff, Cedar Run Bakery and customers, Ticonderoga Federal Credit Union, Elizabethown Thrift Store, Whiteface Lodge and customers, Marine Toy Train, Zone 3 (Lewis) New York State Police, Alan and Jackie Stokes, and many, many county employees from virtually all county departments.

With gratitude,

John P. O’Neill

Commissioner

Essex County Department of Social Services

Elizabethtown