Wildfires Affect Everyone
The images are awful. All over the big ‘ole area that is Los Angeles, California h
omes, businesses, schools, banks, libraries, places of worship and more, are wiped out in a matter of minutes.
The blazing infernos force people and pets to run for their lives.
Wild, gusting, swirling Santa Ana winds overpower firefighters battling the flames on the ground.
On the Ground and In the Air
When the winds calm down the fight goes on in the skies. This real life horror movie is still going on a week after it started.
News crews captures the images. Reports of celebrities losing their houses make headlines.
But a whole lot of everyday folks who have lived in the area for a really long time are losing their homes too.
How To Help the Children
And what about the children who may not have a house anymore – or a school?
In the small Southern town of Shady Pines residents watch the ongoing story on their screens. 
They are horrified like everyone else following the daily updates. What can they do?
Mayor Beauregard Fibbs is no stranger to extreme weather events. After all, hurricanes and strong storms happen a lot around here.
Right now he’s in his downtown office pacing back and forth.
“This is horrible. Just horrible, “says the mayor. 
“We may be a long ways away from the west coast but by golly there’s something we can do to help.”
Putting A Plan Together
Mayor Fibbs calls up The Shady Pines Gazette editor, Zulah Talmadge and Scoop the Cub reporter.
“Zulah, will you and Scoop get over here as soon as you can? We need to put out the word that ourtight knit community is going to pull together to help those folks who have lost everything. I’m especially worried about the kids.”
Zulah and Scoop are out covering another story, but when they they get the call from mayor, they hurry over to City Hall.
Getting Focused
As Scoop packs up his camera gear, Zulah has a thought. “I’m glad the mayor is focusing on children. 
The need is so great out there in L.A. We wouldn’t know where to start.”
Scoop agrees. “You’re right. I’ve seen bunches of places popping up with all sorts of donated items that folks desperately need.”
Zulah whirls around and grabs Scoop by the shoulders. “I have an idea. I saw a story on the TODAY show that might help us.”
Scoop looks at her wide eyed.”How?”
Zulah explains. “It featured an organization called, Save The Children. They find ways to make life more bearable for kids when disaster strikes.
Actress Jennifer Gardner has worked with Save The Children for sixteen years. We need to contact that them.”
Look For The Helpers
Scoop tosses his bag into the white news van and throws Zulah the keys.
“What are you doing?” asks Zulah.
Scoop looks excited. “I have an idea, too. 
I’ll go ask Rita Malena to come to our meeting at the mayor’s office. As the Director of the Community Center she can help us.”
Zulah is amazed. “That’s good thinking Scoop. Since the elementary school is right next to the center Rita can round up some teachers and parents, too.”
“See ya in a bit Miss Zulah,” says Scoop
Zulah sits in the front seat behind the steering wheel of the van and looks for the story on her ipad.
Here it is:
“Oh this makes me so happy,” says Zulah. “We will be able to talk to these people and find a way to make a difference.”
And dear readers, that’s what Shady Pines Story Town is all about. Even when our world seems dark or discouraging, we allow kindness and caring to guide our way. It’s how we try to bring a little light where and when it’s needed most!
Again another personal comment Great words to all concerning
young, old people of all social
level….disaster can happen to any
of us. Your words were directed to
each of us Thank you!
Thank you Jane. Much appreciated!
Really nice article
I can’t believe this is still going on. Thank you for the humanity you show in this post
I really feel for all the humans and animals who have been displaced by this horrific event
This really made me think about how widespread the disaster really is for everyone out there
Really god story. Thank you for highlighting these efforts
Hi! I also saw the piece on Save the Children. I can’t imagine having children and losing your home .. This whole situation is overwhelming but everyone must start somewhere . It sounds like this is a good organization! Thank you!
The whole situation is heartbreaking. Save The Children is international and does amazing work
Keep up the encouraging work, Shady Pines folks! Thx
Thank you Sandi!
It’s hard to imagine the scope of this tragedy. Thank you for letting us know about Save The Children
Yes, we all need to help in any way we can, thank you for sharing this information.
You’re welcome Janis. Glad you liked it!
Hi! I also saw the piece on Save the Children. I can’t imagine having children and losing your home .. This whole situation is overwhelming but everyone must start somewhere . It sounds like this is a good organization! Thank you!
The fires and the destruction in Southern California are unimaginable. Thank you for sharing light and love and way to help
Thank you Sharon. It’s a horrible situation to be sure
Such a worthwhile organization and an important post.. Thank you Shady Pines for lighting the way!
Thank you Jim!
Rather than feeling helpless, you’ve directed us to helpfulness. Thank you.
I appreciate tat Elaine. Thank you!
“This real life horror movie” sure does sum it up. 🙁
Thank you for making us aware of the Save the Children organization. It’s heartwarming to know kindness and caring are alive and well.
Thank you Sheri. Save The Children does work internationally. Their efforts are now being directed to California
Reading about the LA fires is truly heartbreaking. This is a timely message from Shady Pines on how we can make a difference. #ShadyPinesStorytown #LAfires
Thank you Tammy. Yes a heartbreaking situation that is bringing out the best in so many people who want to help
Thank you for sharing Save the Children’s link. I will certainly make a donation for a very worthy cause.
Shady Pines does so much to remember “Caring & Sharing” makes a positive difference for all, especially those affected by tragedy.
Thank you Teresa. I appreciate this so much!
An excellent way to participate in Shady Pines Sharing and Caring – thanks for providing us with the link
Thank you. And you are so welcome!
I had not heard of Save The Children before. I plan to make a donation.
Truly well presented to all level of readers Allowing all of to appreciate what we have.Knowing
rich, not so rich, young, old tragedy
happens to all of us. Therefore we all aid each other in anyway possible. SHADY PINES will always
extend kindness to those needing it
Thank you so much for saying that Jane!
Oh my goodness. This was so poignant. Great message.