It's so hard to know

With the unpredictability in the markets, it's so hard to know how to advise schools in their fundraising efforts, so we took a cautious, respectful position: solicit for the annual fund now with such a focus on participation that you might allow your donors to cut their gifts in half, from last year, just to allow them to remain on your list. We're advising schools to cultivate now, and not to solicit capital gifts until January. As of yesterday (12-8) the market continues an upward trend, and we certainly hope it continues. Nevertheless, hold off on any capital solicitations unless the prospect begs for it!