This will be the fourth year that Jolene Macrae of Colonial Property Management has put this event together, and each year seems to get better and better.

The goal of Christmas in July is to bring some cheer to the seniors there halfway through the year when they might be running out of that big bottle of lotion that nephew Billy gave them in December.

The event will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 30.

Until then, organizers will be collecting any and all items that seniors could use, such as shampoo, lotion, word search puzzle books, combs, brushes, barrettes, razors, after shave, soaps, lounging pants, nightgowns, slippers, socks, t-shirts, scarves, hats, throws, robes, and more.

Last year, the project even received donations of Wal-Mart gift cards, which were used to buy items.

In 2009, residents of Highland Manor also received artificial flowers and some vases so those who were unable to get “out and about” would have something pretty to look at each day.

Organizers hope to receive enough items to fill a one-foot box for each resident.

There are approximately 85 residents currently at Highland Manor, and organizers usually make a couple of extra boxes in case someone new arrives at the last minute.

During the week prior to the “special deliveries,” there is a “wrapping party” where all the items are put into the boxes and wrapped with Christmas paper.

Jacque Dickason at Highland Manor provides the list of everyone’s names, sizes, and whether they are active or inactive so that boxes can be specially tailored with goodies specifically for each resident.

Local singer/songwriter Blair Adams has provided the entertainment in the past, and should be filling the halls with Christmas music on that special day.

Also, Highland Manor traditionally provides a cake with appropriate Christmas designs on it, while the staff decorates the facility for "Christmas."

Anyone that would love to share the delight, appreciation, and smiles is welcome to join in the celebration.

In the meantime, everyone is invited to donate articles for the event by taking them to the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce located at 12 W. Mesquite Blvd, #107; the Mesquite Vistas Country Club on Pinnacle Lane; or to Colonial Property Management at 736 W. Pioneer Blvd., #200.

For more information, contact Jolene B. Macrae at 702-345-2200, or email her at jolene@cpmlv.com.