When it got dark, it was my turn to tell scary stories by the campfire. These kids have seen a lot, and do not impress easily, but I found two stories I liked and read them aloud, and also told them the true story of Vlad The Impaler, the inspiration for the Dracula Legend.

I think that shook them up. Ali told ghost stories from Egypt, and Maria told ghost stories from Long Island. We sat there for two hours, I was cold and tired, they were just warming up. I think they will be up in their yurt for a long time.

This retreat was funded by the Army of Good, and I have  started a Children’s Refugee Fund to raise money for activities like this one, and also for scholarships for gifted refugee children seeking extra instruction in their passions – music, art, computing, whatever.

The Army Of Good has also funded a trip for some refugee children to the Great Escape Adventure Park at Lake George in less than a month.

So far, we have raised more than $1,500. I’ve opened a special bank account to keep the money separate and Ali will bring me ideas for meeting the many needs of these children, whose parents often come to our country with nothing. We are funding birthday parties, summer trips to lakes and parks, soccer uniforms, and hopefully, specially classes or tutoring as needed and desired.

If you wish to contribute, you can do so by donating to the Children’s Refugee Fund, c/o Jon Katz, Bedlam Farm, P.O. Box 205, Cambridge, N.Y, 12816 or donating in any amount to Paypal Friends and Family, [email protected]. These children have suffered greatly and are in the midst of a sometimes traumatic and challenging adjustment to America.

I am told by my accountant and by RISSE, the refugee immigrant and support center,  that these donations are tax deductible.

They are worthy and deserving.

Thanks, and thanks again to the wonderful person who paid for the cost of this retreat. Tomorrow, a full day, I’ll be there and share the day with you.