I Have Trusted Friends

[Idaho Linda]

Who are going to the Okanogan/Methow Valley on Monday with relief supplies they are gathering themselves. One of them is from that area and has lots of family there. These are former military folks who do a lot of relief and support work. Both are in their 30s. They are fine young men.

I am trying to get a number to PayPal money to them. I wouldn't trust the Red Cross with ten cents, but I would trust these guys to spend my money wisely.

For those that don't live in the PNW, here is a link to a local newspaper in the area.
www.omakchronicle.com/

If you want to help, pm me and I will give you the PayPal number.

[Idaho Linda]

Here is today's update. www.gazette-tribune.com/news/carlton-complex-fire-update-as-of-sunday-720-10-am/68273/

I will post pics when I get them. This is a big cattle and horses and orchard area. It is very rural and the folks don't have much government support in good times. It is beautiful country full of wonderful people.

[Sheryl]

It is such a tragedy and I am so sorry this is happening there. It is raining like heck today on the west side, after alot of dry weather so I HOPE they get a little bit of it!

Linda, your facts are incorrect though about those rural people not relying much on state aid during good times. Chelan, Douglas, Ferry Okanagan etc counties take more back from the state then they contribute - unlike King and Snohomish counties who contribute more in taxes than comes back from the state. I realize there are economic reasons for this - but it is just simply a statement of fact.

[Idaho Linda]

Sheryl, you are correct. What I meant to say (from living in those rural areas most of my life) is that things people take for granted in more populated.areas, just don't happen. It took me three days to get a response out here from law enforcement--and that was a letter inviting me to form a block watch group. The rural areas may not generate the tax money, but I feel they help make the NW a better place to live.