By the time you receive this issue of our newsletter, your thoughts will be turning to turkey, Christmas shopping and — ugh — taxes. The Friends cannot do much about the first item, but you might consider the benefits of gifts to the Friends as a means of achieving a few tax-deductions. In addition to an ordinary contribution, please consider the advantages of naming the Friends in your will.

If you are like most of us, you avoid thinking about departing this world. However, even the most advanced medical research has not been able to alter the inevitable.

Several of our Friends have told us that they have included the Foundation. It may be a simple flat sum bequeathed or may involve property or stocks. It is also possible to leave a percentage of your estate after all other specific bequests and debts are paid. Of course, laws vary from state to state, so you should consult your lawyer for specifics.

We can also help with Christmas shopping. We are offering some really special Christmas cards this year, thanks to the talent of artist Joyce Dana Delario and the energy and determination of board member Diane Sturiale.

The annual board meeting of the Friends took place in Santa Rosa the day after the very successful recital of our president, Mr. Carreras. The Board elected Mr. Robert Weiss as a new member. Both Drs. Bianco and Buckner discussed the necessity for creating our own website and offered to assist.

A final personal note. Don and I thank all of you who sent your thoughts during his recent hospitalization. Don had a mild stroke but thanks to all the appropriate guiding spirits, he has fully recovered and is anxious to get out from under bossy, restricting caregiving.

Dottie Thomas is Treasurer of the Friends’ Board.