SALISBURY — In the 1970s, a group of young mothers started a book club that has stood the test of time. They’ve gathered for lunch once a month and have a book discussion every third month.

The Peripatetic Reviewers Book Club was formed and not long after began donating to the Christmas Happiness Fund and Rowan Helping Ministries.

“We all had children and were very sympathetic to that cause,” said Anne Crawford.

Christmas Happiness donations are accepted at the Salisbury Post, and the money is distributed by the Salvation Army. The fund supports local children who may not otherwise receive many or any gifts at Christmas.

Each year, every member of the book club chooses a book. The list is narrowed down to a few, and club members discuss them during their meetings.

The group of women, along with Juanita Bouser, began the Author Symposium held annually at Catawba College. The women still support that symposium.

The name of the book club came from a member who decided that since its members all ran around after their young children, “peripatetic” was appropriate.

“It was between that and the Lit Wits,” Crawford laughed.

Contributions to the Christmas Happiness Fund may be delivered to the Salisbury Post, 131 W. Innes St., between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or mailed to Salisbury Post Christmas Happiness Fund, P.O. Box 4639, Salisbury, NC 28145-4639.

Make checks payable to Christmas Happiness Fund and indicate how you want your donation listed.

Today’s contributions are: