Thanks to all who put out the fire

You would think, with all the happenings in the Antelope Valley the last couple of weeks, that this would be the simplest column to write. Not so. All of us here have spent the time watching the smoke, and worrying about our friends, their homes and animals. It has been draining, to say the least, for everyone. Even if the fire didn't threaten your property, you would still think of the devastation of the fire in June 2002, and worry. The Larson fire was considered 100 percent contained Monday, which is good news to all.

First, we can only say "thank you" to all the fire crews who worked on dousing the horrible fire, saved homes and properties. All of the crews who came worked very hard, and it is sincerely appreciated. I have been approached by several local residents, asking me to give a special thank you to our own volunteer fire department. Even the Reno newspaper stated that they had saved homes while waiting for outside assistance from the rough-terrain experts. We should appreciate all the hours and effort they put in, especially since they are volunteers. I have also been grateful that our local fire chief , Scott Sherlock, has kept me updated on the fire status by e-mail daily. It made me a lot more comfortable, and I was able to pass the word on to community members. We're just glad the Larson fire is hopefully in the past.

Second, congratulations to all in the fire zone who escaped the nearby devastation. The community is so relieved for you.

The Lions Club shines again

Our wonderful Antelope Valley Lions Club stepped up for the community yet again. June 5, when the Larson Lane to Cunningham Lane area was evacuated, there were no supplies on hand to feed the evacuees, because there hadn't been the time to get them from the usual out-of-the-area sources. The Lions immediately got going and put on a spaghetti dinner that served around 60 people. You guys are great.

Regional Planning Advisory Committee

Last Thursday was the regular monthly RPAC meeting. It had previously been arranged to have the US Forest Service's Bridgeport Ranger, Cheryl Probert, there to discuss summer recreation plans. Obviously, the conversation ended up almost totally discussing the fire. Cheryl gave some information about what had been and still was taking place. Many of the members and guests expressed their concerns and asked questions. Cheryl and Tom Fitzpatrick, the fire expert, gave as many complete answers as possible. We thank them for their time.

Antelope Valley Fire Commission

The commission's regular meeting is tonight, 6 p.m., at the Walker fire station. As always, the public is invited to attend. This might be a good chance for us to tell them how much we appreciated their efforts on our behalf. Also, on tonight's agenda is discussion about the Mountain Warfare Training Center's lack of cooperation regarding bearing the expense of the Antelope Valley Fire Department's protecting their buildings at base housing.

Friends of the Library news

Due to the fire, last week's showing of the new photographic exhibit and the reception at the Coleville Library was postponed until 4 p.m. today. You are invited to come see the work of these talented photographers and have some refreshments.

Foreign Exchange students

I received a letter this week from Amanda Keith, International Coordinator for the ASPECT Foundation, a non-profit organization. This group finds homes for and places foreign exchange students while they are studying here. This was the first year that Coleville High School did not have such a student. If you would be interested in hosting a student, you can e-mail Amanda at aspecthomefinder@yahoo.com call her at (775) 901-0709. Their organization's Web site is www.aspectfoundation.org if you would like to check it out. It's a great learning experience for both the students and their hosts to have them live and study here.

-- Lynne Katusich can be reached at lynnekat@schat.net or (530) 495-2552.