During her trip east, J.J. stopped by the Long Beach Public Library to see its rebuilding efforts. They are still crammed into two FEMA trailers, with the librarians showing grace under pressure. Wanda told the tale in good Southern style, beginning with the sense of progress they all felt when the four air conditioner/heaters donated by Mittal Steel were installed, thus making it possible to get on with the inside work in the building. Their elation was suddenly deflated when it was discovered the brand new machinery had been ruined by vandals stripping out the copper. Oh, well, as it says on their website, "It is never to late to begin right where you are."

During the 2005 Book Festival, we collected $450, which librarian Jeannie Ripoll designated toward a round table and chairs in their children's library. We continue to collect funds on their behalf.

To make a donation directly for this purpose, send a check to the Sitting Room and mark it "Katrina Relief." Or send directly to Jeanne Ripoll, Director, Long Beach Public Library, 209 Jeff Davis Avenue, Long Beach, MI, 39560.

Every year we publish a collection of writings. Last year the theme was "Spirit Matters!" This was a collection of brief (up to 400 words) essays that focused on material of significant spiritual impact on the reader's life.

Watch for the Publishing guidelines with our next theme, to be announced this summer. Deadline will be February 14, 2009.

Another partner of The Sitting Room is The Living Room, a daytime shelter for women and children. On November 17, 2006 we held a Harvest Supper and asked guests to bring gifts for those who use the shelter.

The following morning, J. J. Wilson was bombarded with phone calls and drop-offs of gifts from those who had been unable to attend the simple feast.