When ’Ole Mayor Beau Bends the Truth: A Shady Pines Story on Honesty and Second Chances

by Mary Jane | Oct 13, 2026 | The Kindness Connection Blog

From Fibs to Forgiveness

How Did It go Wrong?

Dear Readers, We're going to focus on our Mayor Beauregard P. Fibbs. You see he'd be the first to tell ya that he's lived in Shady Pines Story Town for as long as he can remember.

In fact, Beauregard and Shady Pines Gazette Editor Zulah Talmadge go way back. They used to get into trouble at school. Nothing bad you understand. Just every so often they'd play hooky from class and meet down at the MaCaw River.

Zulah loved to make up stories about what she imagined the early settlers of Shady Pines must have been like. She'd talk about how people came up the river on all sorts of boats from all over the country to make their home here.

And Beau would tell Zulah about his future plans. He had some big ideas. He knew how he'd make Shady Pines the 'best ever' if he could just run things one day.

May I tell you a secret? Zulah is one of the few people in town who knows his middle name is Percival.

Destiny Fulfilled

'Ole Beau is basically a good guy. But there is that one thing. As he grew up folks took notice that young Beauregard started having expensive tastes. It was perfectly normal to see him show up at the tailors and buy himself a very snazzy suit.

It's also true that Fibbs took a keen interest in helping people whenever he could. He'd get involved in food drives and clean up efforts after storms - even heading up fundraising efforts to make sure the Community Center had enough money for projects that served the whole town.

That's why no one was surprised when he ran for mayor and won. He was such a logical choice.

At first everything seemed to go as planned. Mayor Fibbs gathered smart, confident, and capable people around him to help run things. His administration was dedicated to making life better for everybody. This was the campaign slogan he used when he was running for office: "Shady Pines- Rooted in tradition, growing toward the future."

Slowly, over time, things started to change. The mayor didn't seem as responsive to the needs of the community. He started ducking questions that he didn't want to answer. As the now editor of The Shady Pines Gazette, his old friend Zulah began to wonder what was going on. She even shouted, "Percival answer the question!" at a recent news conference.

The Mayor Is In Trouble

It became obvious that more people than just Zulah were starting to ask questions. The soft murmurs of discontent could be heard over coffee at Cup 'O Joe's. That rumble grew into loud voices demanding answers. Finally, it got to the point no one could ignore the obvious.

Could it be that even a man as well intentioned as Beau had lost his way? The word was out: Mayor Fibbs may be using some of the town's taxpayer money for his own use. And the evidence?

Well, sad to say, the mayor gave himself a raise and bought brand new new office furniture at the same time the town was showing extensive signs of decay. That's a problem. Plus, Beauregard does have a history of being a bit fast and loose with facts. As his name "Fibbs" implies, he tends to fib a bit.

The Power of Honesty & Forgiveness

When Beau finally realizes everyone knows the truth and the town has turned on him, he asks for their forgiveness. That's a great lesson for young kids. Heck, being humble enough to ask for someone to forgive you, can be hard for anyone of any age!

It also demonstrates the power of honesty and that telling the truth - even when it's difficult - is the best policy. Once all was forgiven, the town took responsibility, too. After all, our townsfolk didn't notice all the problems that were going on around them until they got out of hand.

In the end, the town decided that everyone should clean up the mess together and vow to be more aware of their surroundings in the future.

These are some of the four powerful and important life lessons delivered up in our national award-winning book (forages 6-9) Boomer and Halley Election Day - A Town Votes for Civic Responsibility

It's available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble as a newly republished eBook. Or you can also grab a copy from our website BOOMERandHALLEYBOOKS

Experience an Election like No Other

If you can relate to a time in your life when you did something that either hurt someone's feelings or went against what you knew was right, what did you do?

Did you have the courage to take responsibility?

Our goal here in Shady Pines Story town is to 'Restore Civility One Kind Gesture at a Time.'

Let us know in the comments below how you could relate to this story.

See ya next time!

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Sick of Election Noise? Here’s a Fun Shady Pines Way to Talk to Kids About Community Without Politics

by Mary Jane | Oct 2, 2026 | Shady Pines Stories, The Kindness Connection Blog

The Ultimate Campaign

What's Going On?

Dear Readers, around these parts we're used to events in our small Southern town of Shady Pines holding up a mirror to what's going on in the 'real world.' It's election season everywhere in the country and now we can say that's exactly what's happening here.

In our community honesty and responsibility are up for debate and civility will be the big winner - if everything goes to plan.

This is what you need to know. Once Harold and Edna Sanders adopted those two strays, Boomerang, an Australian Shepherd dog, and Halley's Comet, a silver streak of a cat, they headed to Pets Galore for supplies.

That's when they really noticed the trash piling up all over the place and potholes popping up in the street.

Once inside, it became clear to them that store owner, Pete, is dealing with something new.

"What's going on here, Pete?" asks Harold.

Pete looks u[p. "Hy ya, Harold. And Boomer. The dog park is closed so the obedience classes are being held here now."

"For how long?" asks Harold.

Pete shrugs his shoulders. "'Til there's money to make repairs to the park, I guess."

Harold nods. "I heard there's a meeting at Town Hall tonight to discuss the budget and to ask the mayor about why the town is in disrepair."

Town Hall Meeting

Even before 7pm the place is packed. Zulah Talmadge, editor of The Shady Pines Gazette and Scoop the Cub Reporter are down front to cover the news.

Edna is just off to the right. She wants to hear what the mayor has to say for himself. After all, for months people have been complaining that his office upstairs has brand new furniture and he's given himself a raise while the rest of the town is falling apart.

Mayor Beauregard P. Fibbs gavels the meeting to order. "Okay everyone we're here tonight to discuss the town's budget," says Fibbs. "Now as you know, times are a little tough and -

Zulah jumps to her feet. "Then why are you doing so well?"

One by one neighbors have questions: "How come the buses aren't running and the paint is peeling off buildings?" an elderly gentleman asks.

A woman from the back of the room shouts, "The Shady Pines band can't afford new uniforms."

The town's librarian points out, "The library hasn't had a new book in months."

Zulah asks the ultimate question. "Mr. Mayor wouldn't you agree your Gimme Party has taken advantage of our town?"

Edna raises her had to ask a question. "Isn't anyone from the Common Sense Party running against you?"

That did it. One by one Edna's neighbors chose her as a candidate.

And that's how Boomer and Halley's mom found herself running for mayor on the Common Sense ticket.

Election Headquarters

As you can imagine, Harold was a bit surprised when Edna came home from the meeting and broke the news to him.

"You're running for mayor? I thought you were just going to listen to the discussion!"

Harold may be surprised by this unexpected turn of events, but Boomer and Halley are excited.

"We're off!" says Halley as she starts zooming around the kitchen.

"We're running for mayor," shouts Boomer and he chases after her. Then he stops. "Wait. What does that mean?"

From that moment on, the Sanders' house is campaign headquarters - constantly filled with people and phones ringing off the hook.

We won't tell you how this election works out, you have to read the book to get the full story. But rest assured there is plenty of wacky humor along the way with a heartwarming ending that brings a community together.

This Boomer and Halley Election Day - A Town Votes for Civic Responsibility book for ages 6-9 won the Mom's Choice Gold Award. It is part of a series that also won the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award and is now newly republished as an eBook available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and on the BOOKS PAGE of our website.

There are four character building traits embedded in the Election Day storyline marked by a PAW print including: Pet Care, Forgiveness, Responsibility and Honesty. Prompting questions are included for 'Stop and Talk' opportunities for discussion.

Why It's Important

Here's what people are saying about the Election Day book:

"Teaching kids civility through stories? Really? That's great! We have a 5 yr old and 7 year old . We REALLY need this." - Robert and Mary, parents

"Civility in politics. Thank goodness for the town of Shady Pines. These Boomer and Halley books empower parents to talk about tough subjects in a very kid friendly way. It's so refreshing to see a product that is "on topic" without anger or violence." - Robert, single father

"The PAWS approach and the timely theme of this book are right on the mark. Where's the next one?" - Alice, elementary school teacher

"I'd vote for Edna anytime. We need more Common Sense in the country right now." - Stephanie, mother of two

"Beauregard Fibbs and my nephews have something in common. They all belong to the Gimme Party." - Allen, proud uncle

This election season make sure you get out and vote. As the folks in Shady Pines learn in this Boomer and Halley book, we all have to take responsibility for what's going on around us. And if things are a mess, it's up to all of us to clean it up together. That's why Kindness and Caring are at the forefront of everything we do here in Shady Pines Story Town.

See you next time!

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Sweater Weather and Neighborly Love: The Ultimate Shady Pines Fall Re-set

by Mary Jane | Sep 25, 2026 | Shady Pines Stories, The Kindness Connection Blog

The Harvest Moon Sheds Light

A Bright Fall Energy

Dear Readers, the echoes of laughter from the Shady Pines Fall Festival are still fresh, but the town is already buzzing with a brand-new kind of excitement.

As late September brings crisp morning breezes and brilliant shades of gold to the trees, the community has found a brand-new gathering spot for a weekend market with a big heart.

This weekend, the bright Harvest Moon will be in full view bringing light and energy to a new season.

Bringing the Community Together

Instead of heading back to Stonewall Park, everyone has set up shop right in the spacious parking lot between the Shady Pines Community Center and Shady Pines Elementary School. This location serves as a perfect spot where kids, teens, and adults can team up side-by-side.

No one is more excited about the new location than Rita Mallena, Director of the Community Center. Standing in the middle of the action with a clipboard and a warm smile, Rita directs the setup of booths and tables.

"Okay, everyone, " shouts Rita. "Let's make sure we leave space so we have room for each of you to set up between the community center and the school grounds."

Working hand-in-hand with Rita are the school's third grade kids, led by their teacher, Shirley Worthy. Her class is studying how to be a good member of a community. "So here's the deal," says Shirley. " Some people say being a good neighbor means looking out for one another. And that is called, Civic Responsibility. Shall we say that together class?"

The youngsters yell out in one big noisy voice, "CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY!"

Shirley claps her hands. "Well done! Now lets go and take what we've learned and turn it into action. Whaddaya say?"

"YESSSS!"

Before you could say, "Wait just a cotton pickin' minute," the once empty parking lot becomes a bustling hub of neighborhood projects:

Ms. Worthy's class sets up shop right outside their classroom doors. They'd been working on their booth for weeks with help from the Community Center volunteers. The kids and the adults work on projects together every Friday afternoon.

Civics In Action

The Third-Grade Tasty Fundraiser focuses on things you can eat, drink, or play with - sometimes all at once.

Shirley is right there with them test tasting one of the new drinks they invented just for this event.

"Oh wow," she says after taking her first sip. "This is very refreshing. What are you calling it?"

A young girl in an orange cable knit sweater points to the sign that reads: Chilled Apple-Cider Slushies with Cinnamon Stir Sticks. Right next to the drinks are Handmade Autumn Leaf-Shaped Chalk Sets and Outdoor Play-Wares like Frisbees, Kites, and Individual Saucer Swings to hang on a tree.

The money the kids raise will buy books and other supplies for their classroom.

Down the way a bit from the third graders is another booth raising money. This effort is a little different. These kids are learning how to make money by working for others.

The Value of Hard Work

The Teen "Rent-A-Kid" Chore Stand is getting a lot of action. The teenagers have set up a very popular sign-up booth for their "Rent-A-Kid" Chores program.

Instead of waiting for spring cleaning, neighbors can sign up for help with autumn tasks like raking leaves, mowing lawns, washing cars, or stacking firewood to get ready for the cooler months.

And what do the teenagers get? "I'm going to buy a bike," says Tom. "I need a way to get to my part time job at Fred's Corner Grocer."

"Oh yeah? Well..." muses Mary. "I think I'll save up to go to college. What about you Aaron?"

"I'm going to help get Mrs. Delany a walker," says Aaron. "I do chores for her but she's getting kinda feeble and I don't think a cane is enough anymore."

Another popular booth at the event is one that provides for folks with real and ever - increasing needs.

Every Little Bit Helps

The Community Food & Warm Clothing Drive is positioned right at the center of everything. Under Rita's watchful, caring eye, the giant donation station overflows with generosity. "How are we doing Mark?" asks Rita. A burly man with a grey beard and kind eyes smiles broadly.

"It's going better than I could have expected, Rita. Look at all this," he says as he gestures to all the donations. "And thank you for the sweaters."

"Happy to help," says Rita.

As they chat a bit more, neighbors continue to drop off non-perishable food items, gently used coats, and warm sweaters to make sure everyone in the community stays cozy as the temperature drops.

This Fall Re- Set event shows just how easy it is for everyone to pitch in and help one another. From the third graders learning valuable life lessons from their teacher to busy teenagers giving back, to dedicated community leaders like Rita, anyone can make a difference right in their own backyard.

As the Harvest Moon rises over the school and the community center, the productive and fun event is coming to a close.

Dear readers, something I think we all learned is that a Fall re-set is a wonderful opportunity to ask the kids in your life: "What is one way we can help a neighbor this week?"

That's what we'll be thinking about as we say goodbye for now from the small Southern town of Shady Pines.

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Shady Pines Catches Fall Festival Fever – but Will Someone Get Dunked?

by Mary Jane | Sep 14, 2026 | Shady Pines Stories, Special Events, The Kindness Connection Blog

Festival Planning is Underway

A FALL TRADITION

Dear Readers, the autumn crispness is beginning to tickle the leaves at the tippy-tops of the oak trees in Shady Pines. But inside City Hall, Mayor Beauregard Fibbs is actually sweating through his favorite red bowtie. He sits at the head of the polished walnut conference table and looks at his team.

"People," Mayor Fibbs announces, clearing his throat with a dramatic Ahem!, "the Fall Festival is fast approaching. It is scheduled for Saturday, September 20th - just a couple of days before the official start of autumn. This town needs to pull out all the stops and host a festival to remember. I want every single neighbor and visitor to feel at home here in our small Southern town."

Tabitha Trotter, the town’s chief of cheer and scheduling, raises her hand. "Mayor, do we have the apple bobbing stations locked down? And what about the giant pumpkin patch?"

"All secured, Tabitha," Mayor Fibbs smiles as he checks off two more items on his list.

Barnaby Briggs, the head of groundskeeping for Stonewall Park, has a question. "Mayor our town is known for kindness and caring. How do we build that into our festival?"

Mayor Fibbs puts both hands on the table and looks from person to person. " That's a good question Barnaby. We'll get to that. But one thing we're not going to have this year is the Dunk Tank. That didn't work out so well, did it?"

Tabitha tries not to laugh. "We thought we had it rigged so you wouldn't go in."

"You gotta admit we raised a lot of money for the Shady Pines Library," Barnaby points out.

"Yes, well"... says Fibbs. "Different approach this year. We're setting up a Welcome Table right at the entrance. Instead of just handing out maps, we'll give every kid a 'Kindness Quest' card. If they help someone carry a heavy basket, share a bench with a newcomer, or compliment a shy booth owner, they get a golden sticker."

Tabitha’s eyes light up. "They'll have a mission. And what happens when they fill the card?"

"They earn a free ticket for a Carmel Apple Cider Float at the end of the day," Mayor Fibbs says excitedly. "Also, for folks of all ages, I want to encourage people to paint a community friendship mural near Swan Lake. Anyone can add a brushstroke, whether they paint like a pro or just dab a cheerful yellow smiley face."

"Everyone will feel they're included," says Tabitha.

"Exactly," says the mayor, tapping the map one last time. "Let's make sure this Fall Festival isn't just about fun, but about making sure nobody feels left out."

Apples Are Here

Down at Fred’s Corner Grocer, the delivery truck has just pulled up. Out springs young Hazel who helps her dad with deliveries these days.

Hi ya, Fred," she says. "We've got some beauties for you!"

"These apples are going to be the absolute star of the festival," Fred says when he sees the crates rolling up to his store. "Half of these are headed straight for the grand apple-dunking tub we're setting up in Stonewall Park."

"Not like the dunk tank that nearly drowned the mayor last year I hope!" says Hazel.

Fred chuckles. "Oh he made it look worse than it was. No, this year it's just bobbing for apples,"

Hazel nods. "And what about the other half of the apples?"

"Well, those are reserved for the official tasting station. I want every kid in Shady Pines biting into a crisp piece of autumn perfection."

A few blocks away, the smell of cinnamon and brown sugar is already wafting around Maggie’s Diner. Maggie stands over a flour-dusted counter, rhythmically rolling out pie dough with a well-worn pin.

Here Come The Pies

"If we’re going to feed a whole town celebrating the start of fall, we need comfort food that gives you a hug from the inside out," Maggie thinks to herself.

A young man having coffee with his grandmother watches Maggie with interest. "What are you making Maggie?" he asks.

"Why this is a spiced caramel apple pie. I'm also gonna whip up a batch of molasses-ginger cookies. It's all going on the community dessert table at the Fall Festival. No one's going home with an empty sweet tooth if I can help it," she says.

Booth Construction

Over at the workshop next to Nuts 'N Bolts Hardware, Harold and his trusty crew are making sawdust fly. With safety goggles firmly in place and a pencil tucked behind his ear, Harold measures a thick pine board. His coworker tightens two boards together with a loud whirrrr of a cordless drill.

"Steady on that corner, Pete," Harold yells while wiping sweat from his brow. "Mayor Fibbs wants this main welcome booth sturdy. It's got to hold a mountain of kindness cards, prize ribbons, and festival maps. We build it once, and we build it right so it stands proud all through the Festival."

"I'm on it Mr. Sanders."

A Cup of Memories

Over at Cup 'O Joe's Coffee Shop on Main Street, owner Joe Grizzo is planning what he's going to contribute. He wants to feature a cozy, crowd-pleasing autumn menu with distinct drinks tailored for both adults and kids:

The Mayor asked him to come up with a prize drink for the Kindness Quest winners. Joe worked on various combinations before settling on the two he'll feature at his shop and at the Fall Festival.

Joe will showcase a Caramel Apple Cider Float for the kids. It has warm locally pressed apple cider poured over a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and drizzled with thick caramel.

And for the adults he's offering a Maple Pecan Cold Brew. It's made of smooth cold brew coffee blended with real maple syrup and roasted pecan extract, finished with a splash of sweet cream."

"I hope everyone likes them!" Joe brought some of these signature flavor drinks straight from the classic New Jersey diner he used to own. Now that he's made Shady Pines his home, Joe makes sure to adapt his blends to include a cozy Southern twist.

A few blocks away Edna sits at the Sanders' kitchen table with her trusty companions: Boomerang, an Australian Shepherd dog, and Halley's Comet, a silver streak of a cat. Naturally her furry children are helping her decide what she will bring to the town's fall event.

"Now then helpers," Edna said, tapping her pen against her chin. "The festival folks want treats for the community spread, but we need something that both humans and our four-legged festival-goers can enjoy safely."

Halley checks out the recipe cards. Using her paw, she delicately nudges one in particular over to Edna. It's a recipe for pumpkin-oat dog biscuits. "This one, girl?" asks Edna. "Yummy dog biscuits. You'll like that Boomer."

Boomer barks and thumps his little bobbed tail.

"Here's a recipe for spiced apple-cinnamon muffins for the human guests. Okay kids. Let's get to work!"

Together, they start cooking up a storm, ready to prove that the best kind of community is one where everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike—shares in the feast.

And that's where we'll leave our festival planners as neighbors get busy doing what they do best. They are coming together to make the community celebration welcoming, bright, and full of heart in the small Southern town of Shady Pines.

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Never Forget: The Legacy of Love, Loss, and Community Shady Pines Honors on the 25th Anniversary of 9/11

by Mary Jane | Sep 8, 2026 | Shady Pines Stories, Special Events, The Kindness Connection Blog

A Nation Remembers

And So It Begins

Dear Readers the morning sun over Shady Pines Story Town bounces lightly off the bright awnings of the shops lining Main Street. The early train blows its horn as it rambles along the old train tracks that run right through the middle of town. Even with that, somehow today the downtown scene feels a little quieter than usual.

September 11th has arrived, marking twenty-five years since a very sad day in our history. It's a day grown-ups call 9/11. A big, sad tragedy happened at three different locations in the country - including New York City - where two tall buildings fell down and thousands of people needed help.

Many youngsters living today weren't even alive back then. They don't know what it was like when the breaking news flashed across our TV screens. So it's up to those of us who experienced that fateful day to tell the story. It was a time when our nation was attacked and brave men and women went about the business of looking for survivors. Some members of the rescue teams had four legs and a tail.

Just past the tracks downtown sits the Shady Pines Gazette office with its large front window. Leaning forward at her big oak desk, Zulah Talmadge, the editor of the Gazette, is proofreading the morning headlines. Scoop the Cub Reporter is taking phone calls from the news tip line. Both of them felt the need to get to work early.

Just another day. Or, is it?

The Unsung Heroes

After finishing up the latest call, Scoop wanders over and gazes at a vintage photograph on the Gazette's community bulletin board. It shows a brave German Shepherd wearing sturdy protective boots to protect his paws while he's on search and rescue duty.

Scoop sighs. "So many people were missing after those planes flew into the Twin Towers in New York."

The teenage reporter's thoughts are interrupted when the front door swings open. Hi, everyone." Mayor Beauregard P. Fibbs stops by with a special announcement that he wants to post.

"Mayor Fibbs, look at this," Scoop says, pointing to the photograph. "Twenty-five years ago, hundreds of four-legged heroes went to Ground Zero to help find people who were lost after the towers came down. Like the humans beside them, they didn't care about the dangerous conditions of rubble and twisted metal. They only cared about being there when they knew they were needed."

Mayor Beauregard takes a closer look and nods slowly. Zulah looks up from her papers with a gentle, reflective smile.

'Such bravery," says Scoop quietly.

"Indeed," the Mayor says. "And you know who else showed up? Ordinary people, alongside firefighters and rescue workers who gave everything to save others. It reminds us that community means carrying the weight together."

"Oh, I almost forgot this," says the mayor waving his paper flier.

"Here. I'll pin it on the board for you," says Scoop taking the piece of paper from Fibbs' hand.

"Thank you Scoop. I'm putting these reminders up all over town."

The Meaning Hits Home

Inside the cozy kitchen of the Sanders home just off Main Street on Dogwood Drive, Harold and Edna Sanders enjoy a quiet morning.

Their beloved 4-legged children are with them. Boomerang, the family's Australian Shepherd dog sits close to Harold’s feet, his soulful brown eyes fixed on every word. His bobbed tail gives an eager, subtle wiggle.

"Animals have a special way of knowing when we need comfort," Edna remarks, slicing up a warm loaf of banana bread. "Just like those rescue dogs after the disaster on 9/11. Those amazing animals stayed calm and guided people through the dark smoke and dust looking for people who might be trapped."

Up on her favorite window seat perch, Halley's Comet, (their silver streak of a cat), gives a soft, knowing purr.

Harold nods. "And those search teams came from all over the country to help."

Tell The Children

Across town at Pets Galore pet shop, owner Pete is talking to young visitors. He has a very special message for them.

"Hey kids. Do you know what today is?"

The three children standing in front of him shake their heads, no.

"Well this is a very important day. On this date, back in 2001, our nation was under attack. My folks say they were really scared because they didn't know what was going on."

The children gasp.

Pete continues. "But what they soon learned is that when animals and humans team up during hard times, they prove that love and teamwork can be stronger than any obstacle."

Meanwhile, over at Cup 'O Joe's coffee shop, owner Joe Rizzo hands a fresh pastry to Kim Dunworthy.

"What do you have there Kim?" he asks

Kim is busy sorting a bundle of bright, colorful envelopes that she's been carrying around in her satchel.

Notes of Gratitude

"Look at these," Kim smiles, showing Joe a stack of handmade cards local kids have drawn. "The children are sending thank you notes to our local fire station today."

Joe beams. "How wonderful. They want to honor the service, and fearless devotion to duty, firefighters and other first responders showed all of us when it mattered most. Good for them."

We all need to do something to help people remember the sacrifices of so many people. It kinda makes you wonder what you would do in that situation, doesn't it?" adds Kim."

At the Shady Pines Fire Station just down the road, it is a solemn day of remembrance. So many first responders on 9/11 were firefighters and police professionals.

A Solid Reminder

Some of the folks in our small Southern town knew someone who worked in those big towers that came down. Others knew some of the men and women who rushed into danger to try and save people. Not all of those folks made it back home alive.

A polished bronze plaque now has a place of honor in front of the old station with its bay doors. It bears the words: In Honor of the Brave First Responders—Always Remember, Always Heroes.

The plaque was donated by someone in Shady Pines who didn't give their name. The note said only, "Let this be my gift to all who answered the call."

Firefighters stand quietly by as children and neighbors walk up to leave flowers and hand-drawn notes of gratitude. They want to make sure the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice twenty-five years ago live on in all of our hearts.

You know Dear Readers, history isn't just about dates in a textbook. It's about ordinary people, and their loyal animal friends, choosing to do extraordinary acts of kindness. Even when things feel big or overwhelming, helpers always show up.

To honor the legacy of 9/11 on its 25th anniversary, we invite you to take the Shady Pines "Pay It Forward" Challenge. Look around your own neighborhood or school this week. Can you draw a thank-you card for a local police officer, drop off a treat for a firefighter, or hand a kind note to someone your family knows was touched by the events of that day?

When we do small acts of good, we keep a ripple of light moving forward. And that is why on every anniversary of 9/11 we say these words together: 'WE WILL NEVER FORGET.'

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A New Meaningful Memorial Park Bench in Shady Pines Story Town

by Mary Jane | Aug 30, 2026 | Shady Pines Stories, The Kindness Connection Blog

An Important Find

From The Vault

Dear Readers, as the late-summer heat still clings to Shady Pines Story Town like a warm woolen blanket, Kim Dunworthy looks forward to the change of season. "My gosh," moans Kim. "Will autumn ever show up?"

At this very moment Kim is avoiding the sun. She sorts through old files in the dusty, forgotten vault of the post office. Zulah Talmadge, editor of the Shady Pines Gazette called Kim this morning and asked for a favor. Zulah hopes Kim can help uncover some forgotten history about the town's founding fathers for an upcoming special edition she plans to run in the newspaper.

"What is this?" asks Kim as she stumbles upon a brittle, vintage edition of the Shady Pines Gazette. It features a front-page story on one of the town’s founding leaders, Mayor Woodrow "Woody" Culpepper. Kim reads out loud. "It says he was a visionary who famously championed the causes of "Progress and Prosperity."

A Good Idea?

Reading on Kim sees that Mayor Culpepper helped to established Shady Pines in 1876. He was given credit for mapping out the town's roads and its buildings.

While creating the look of the town Mayor Culpepper's administration made sure that his governing principles would be based on kindness, fairness and decency for everyone. Kim looks up after reading that part. "Oh my gosh. He set the tone that we still live by to this very day!"

Kim keeps reading. Culpepper also worked on the original zoning for public spaces like Stonewall Park and Swan Lake. "Wow," says Kim. "Our first mayor really did a lot. I've got to call Zulah and tell her. Then I'd better start delivering the mail."

Kim became inspired after learning about all that Culpepper achieved while he was in office. In a flash, a thought hit her like a ton of bricks. While making her rounds she stops by Stonewall Park. Kim spends a minute watching an ice cream vendor hand out sweet treats to overheated townsfolk. She notices her neighbors have nowhere comfortable to sit while looking out over the sparkling waters of Swan Lake.

"You know what?" Kim thinks, "Shady Pines needs a dedicated resting spot where folks can gather, share books, and maybe catch a cool breeze coming off the lake. What if we build a memorial bench in honor of Mayor Culpepper? Wait 'til I tell Zulah. This could be part of her article."

A Campaign In Action!

After phoning in the idea to Zulah, Kim races home and quickly designs a flyer asking neighbors for help to make the bench a reality. "That looks about right," she says admiring her old fashioned design. "I'll slip copies into mailboxes across town tomorrow." The flier calls for community helpers to gather at the soda fountain inside Nuts 'N Bolts hardware store after hours on Thursday evening.

The hardware store buzzes with excitement as neighbors answer the call. While owner Harold Sanders dishes up frothy concoctions at the soda fountain, others coordinate the contributions.

Harold and his wife, Edna, step up to donate supplies from the hardware store. The guy from the local lumber yard contributes the much needed wood planks. A neighborhood craftsman volunteers to carve a special commemorative plaque bearing Mayor Culpepper's likeness. Everyone else chips in tools, nails, paintbrushes and their time. They know when they work together, they can accomplish anything.

Construction Begins

Kim is thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm friends are showing for the bench building project. Then it hits her. She turns to the owner of the hardware store.

"But now, where do we build it, Harold?"

Harold doesn't hesitate. "To protect the project from the late-summer heat and thunderstorms, I say construction should take place safely indoors at our Nuts 'N Bolts workshop."

"Great plan," says Kim. "Thank you."

By Saturday the group gathers once again. Only this time, they get to work. The style of the bench has been drawn by Kim herself.

It's noteworthy to mention that even in a controlled environment that didn't stop a bit of playful chaos. When Harold, Edna and the others stepped away for a moment to get some refreshments, that's when it happened. The Sanders' energetic Australian Shepherd dog, Boomerang, proudly started trotting around with a paintbrush in his mouth. Meanwhile, his mischievous sister, Halley’s Comet, (a silver streak of a cat), batted curiously at an open can of blue paint.

Before you could say, "Oh no you didn't," Halley dips her paw right into the tin, leaving neat little artistic paw prints across the wood before Boomerang drops his brush with a cheerful thud.

"Uh-oh," says Boomer.

"Do you think we'll get in trouble?" asks Halley

"I...here they come," says Boomer.

The sound of commotion reaches the returning group. Once they see what's happened, all they can do is stand and stare. Then they start to laugh.

Rather than scrub the evidence away, the group decides to preserve those cute, accidental paw prints as a secret signature beneath the seat.

It took a few more sessions before the bench took shape. Once fully assembled, sealed, and fitted with Mayor Culpepper's brass plaque, the finished creation was carefully transported to Stonewall Park.

Celebrating A New Tradition

On a crisp September morning as an autumn breeze finally rolls in, the community gathers under the big oak tree overlooking Swan Lake.

It's time for the official unveiling. Zulah Talmadge and Scoop the Cub Reporter are on hand to cover the goings on.

Kim Dunworthy cuts the official blue ribbon surrounded by the team that built the bench.

Boomer and Halley sit proudly in the center of the action as children immediately unpack picture books from a wooden book-swap crate.

The brand new Shady Pines Storytime Bench is officially open for business providing a place to gather for neighbors of all ages.

Oh, an one more thing.

The legacy of Mayor Woodrow Culpepper lives on by proving that teamwork, local history, and a touch of neighborly kindness can turn a simple idea into a lasting town treasure.

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