www.ssmaclub.org, 283 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10016, (212) 683-4353.

Good morning sisters,

I thought I would tell you a little bit about what to expect at soldiers and sailors. You might want to bring your own shampoo and soap for the communal showers. Sharing the showers has never been an issue but there will be a lot of people at soldiers and sailors including a group called the young Marines. I would not plan on using the shower bathroom areas for putting on makeup drying hair. etc. unless there's no one else waiting or it appears that is not a busy time for the showers.

The young Marines is a wonderful group of young high school age men and women who are always at soldiers and sailors at the same time we are each year as they come for the beginning of CSW too. You will find them to be very helpful and courteous without making a whole lot of noise thank goodness.

In the mornings there will be at no cost to you bagels coffee tea etc. in the downstairs Kitchen area that has a number of small tables. This is also the place that people who come to see you can meet you and talk to you as they are not allowed up into the living quarters. There is also a small TV computer lounge on the floor where visitors are allowed. While you're packing you might want to put a paper bag or large zip lock bag in your suitcase with your name written on it this is how you can keep your extra food in the refrigerator in the kitchen area. You must have your name on everything you store there.

You will find the staff there very friendly and helpful most of them have worked there together like a family for years. I consider it my home away from home. As you already know you will be expected to pay your cost for your whole stay when you arrive.

I am very excited to meet you all and to be able to sponsor you at soldiers and sailors as my husband is retired from the military.

We are happy to have many first time delegates, so please try to help each other and answer questions et cetera. You can catch a cab right outside the door of soldiers and sailors and many attractions are within walking distance for most.

I am packing what are you doing? See you very soon with much love Martha paquin