I was very honored to have my story “Coal Ash and Sparrows” reprinted in the first Relief Anthology, Cornstalk Gypsies. The proceeds from sales of that book were used as a donation to a school in Ottumwa, Iowa — part of the flood affected regions in that state.

I’m really excited about this ongoing series of anthologies, so I was more than happy to offer up another of my stories as a reprint to the latest Relief Anthology. “Natural Order,” my story about a fiery greyhound and some of his “stormy” friends, will be in the book.

Here’s the official word from the editor:

The Winter 2009 Relief Anthology edits and layouts begin today. The following authors will have work appearing in the 2009 Relief Anthology:

Michael Jasper
Michael Merriam
Diane Payne
Eugie Foster
Mike Stone
Jennifer Brozek
Jetse de Vries
*mystery author*

All proceeds generated from the Winter 2009 Relief Anthology will be donated to pet rescues and animal shelters affected by hurricane Ike.

Also, the editor, J.K.Richard will be matching proceed/donations dollar-for-dollar and donating matched monies to rescue efforts in Seattle, WA. Recently in Seattle 600 dogs were confiscated from several puppy mills, most of which are pregnant : http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008665665_puppies24m.html

The book should be ready sometime this month, so keep your eyes peeled! I’ll keep you posted.