tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44382651858651930382024-02-07T05:57:18.524-08:00Rebuild Slave Lake & AreaThis page is to help the families and those displaced by the Slave Lake & Area fires. If you can help, donate items, time, money or a place to stay, please let us know. We will be posting updates on fundraisers, places to get help, and with your permission, send those in need your contact information. Also, if you consent, your email address, name and what you are offering so victims can get into contact with you. Mine is angie.mcconnell@hotmail.comAngie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-78221539870850458212011-05-31T21:09:00.001-07:002011-05-31T21:10:10.504-07:00Site MovedHey everyone - my kick ass followers, just to let you know the site has moved permanently, same address, but you can follow there as well, as I still have a blog. I won't be updating this blog any longer. THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT TIMES A MILLION<br /><br /><a href="http://www.rebuildslavelake.com/">www.rebuildslavelake.com</a>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-50855514095212491962011-05-31T07:51:00.000-07:002011-05-31T07:52:17.276-07:00Donation LocationDonation location announcement coming within the next 48 hours - stay tuned. Hint: Its in Edmonton, other hint: I don't have one, thats all I know lol!Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-63833219225482150452011-05-30T08:42:00.000-07:002011-05-30T08:43:25.297-07:00Red Robin is Fundraising<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoListBullet"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#cccccc;">Anyone who has seen pictures, watched the news, has loved ones or even just spoken to someone who has been affected by this tragedy knows how terrible the situation is for those from Slave Lake. We at Red Robin are trying to do our part in helping to rebuild and support this community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span></span></span></p><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoListBullet"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal"><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#cccccc;">On Tuesday May 31<sup>st</sup> Red Robin will be donating $1 from every burger sold to the rebuilding effort in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Slave</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Lake</st1:placetype></st1:place>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></p><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoListBullet"><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#cccccc;">Come down to any of our four <st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on">Edmonton</st1:city></st1:place> locations, order your favorite burger and help us rebuild a town!</span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-91447155244408363152011-05-29T21:55:00.000-07:002011-05-29T21:56:02.943-07:00School Update<strong><em><u><span style="color:#ccccff;">Thanks to the Slave Lake Community Message Board for this...</span></u></em></strong><br /><span style="color:#ccccff;">**SCHOOL UPDATE** Parents are asked to contact the schools to advise whether their children will be returning to class for the rest of the year. There is a staff meeting being held on Tuesday regarding Operations of the Schools, more info will be released after that meeting. Please see </span><a href="http://www.hpsd48.ab.ca/hpfiles/DisasterWebNotice.pdf?0.7980527752384645" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color:#ccccff;"><span>http://www.hpsd48.ab.ca/hpfile</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span><span>s/DisasterWebNotice.pdf?0.7980</span><wbr><span class="word_break"></span>527752384645</span></a><span style="color:#ccccff;"> for contact numbers and additional information </span>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-46607410115948582652011-05-29T21:48:00.000-07:002011-05-29T21:50:10.970-07:00An Update from the Government<p><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;"><em>In the Lesser Slave Area the fire hazard is <strong>EXTREME. </strong>Please use extreme caution when working or playing in the forest. In anticipation of new wilfire starts, additional firefighters and firefighting resources will be put on alert.</em></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;"><strong><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS</span></strong></span></p><br /><p><strong><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline"></span></strong><strong><em><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;">Sustainable Resource Development would like to welcome residents back to the Slave Lake. </span></em></strong><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><em><strong>What can you expect to see or smell when you return home?<br /></strong></em>You may see smouldering fires and firefighters working near homes.<br /></span></span><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><em><strong>These fires are contained, what does that mean?<br /></strong>Although you may see smouldering spots in the area, the fire boundaries aren't expected to grow. Firefighters are monitoring these areas and are working to extinguish these spots.<br /><strong>Use caution when calling 310-FIRE (3473) to report smokes as false alarms draw much needed firefighting resources away from new wildfire starts.</strong></em> </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Residents who have returned to Slave Lake are reminded to stay away from the forested areas where the fire has burnt. There are many dangerous hazards in these areas, so please steer clear to ensure your safety and the safety of the firefighters working in the area.</strong></span></p><br /><p><strong><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;"><span style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">Wildfire Update</span></span></strong></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Slave Lake Fire -</strong> This wildfire is 100 per cent contained, meaning it has received sufficient firefighting action and will not grow. It remains 4,559 hectares in size. Expect to see some smoke around the area, mainly between Highway 2 and 88. Heavy equipment and firefighters will be working in that area to extinguish deep burning ground fire. </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>South Shore Fire</strong> This wildfire is 100 per cent contained, meaning it has received sufficient firefighting action and will not grow. It is 18,939 hectares in size. Today, firefighters saw smoke in areas that were well in the fire boundary. Firefighters and helicopters worked on extinguishing the smouldering fires in these areas. </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong></strong><strong>Gift Lake Fire (Fire 080)</strong> The wildfire located south of Gift Lake is 100 per cent contained. Firefighters continued to extinguished smouldering fires within the fire perimeter. It is 2, 238 hectares in size. </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">Please call 310-4455 toll free for information on wildfires, evacuations, road closures and fire bans. </span><span style="font-family:georgia;">For updates on the wildfires, check out the Alberta Wildfire Info page on Facebook </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:georgia;color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>For infomation on the wildfires in Slave Lake, Gift Lake and Red Earth call 1-866-916-INFO</strong></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-68695407427442249612011-05-29T21:47:00.000-07:002011-05-29T21:48:02.044-07:00Smoke Alert<p><span style="font-family:Times New Roman;">Smoke from the wildfire burning in Fort McMurray has now blown into the Slave Lake area. People with health concerns should call Alberta Health Link at 1-866-408-5465 or visit healthlinkalberta.ca </span><br /></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-19076044962037590642011-05-29T12:46:00.000-07:002011-05-29T12:48:03.881-07:00Red Cross Donation Update<p><strong><em><u><span style="color:#cccccc;">From the Edmonton Sun</span></u></em></strong></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">About $1.1 million in donations from generous Canadians has aided disaster relief efforts across Western Canada — including relief for fire ravaged Slave Lake — says the Canadian Red Cross. Officials with the Canadian Red Cross could not break down how much of the donations were spent for displaced Slave Lake residents after wildfires wiped subdivision right off the map.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Efforts are also being made to flooding disasters in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia, said officials with the charity.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Nathan Huculak, a spokesman with the Canadian Red Cross, said most of the donations have come from Albertans. All of the donations to the Canadian Red Cross has been put into a Canadian disaster fund the charity uses to respond to disasters, said Huculak.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">That fund will help displaced residents find long-term accommodations, clean-up efforts in Slave Lake, “and getting a home back to a stage that’s liveable,” said Huculak. “Canadians are typically very generous when it comes to times of disaster to support other impacted Canadians and others around the world,” said Huculak.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">“Slave Lake is one of our core activities.”</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Meanwhile, the province announced plans Saturday to move 100 firefighters, police, emergency medical service workers, and health care staff into hotels in Slave Lake to free up living spaces for residents who lost their homes.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">“Our community won’t be whole until we get everybody back and I want our citizens to know that we won’t rest until we rebuild our community,” said Slave Lake Mayor Karina Pillay-Kinee in a press release. “We are working closely with (the provincial government) to get temporary housing in place for our displaced residents. Our hearts go out to everyone who experienced loss during the wildfire.”</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">The province said in a release that other options “are being explored” for housing options in Slave Lake and roughly 200 nearby camping spaces have been set aside for displace residents.<br /></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-77914242332463612292011-05-29T11:18:00.000-07:002011-05-29T11:20:04.603-07:00Website ChangesSo right now I am trying to set up a new, bigger website because of all the amazing people wanting to help the residents of Slave Lake and area, and to give you more information if you are looking for resources of help... This should be happening soon!<br /><br />Also, I have now split things up in terms of the pages. Businesses of Slave Lake, if you are looking for resources you have your own page. Residents, you have your own as well.<br /><br />If you have any suggestions, please email them to me <a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</a>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-10215132783127831442011-05-29T11:10:00.000-07:002011-05-29T11:13:02.053-07:00Bears in Slave Lake and AreaSo I totally had a wrong post on here from a trusted news agency about how many bears were captured in Slave Lake - will just go on the info from the government from now on...<br /><br />There have been sightings and only one bear has been caught near the town and relocated, but due to the smell residents are asked to practice bear smarts, not leave any garbage that is rotting outside, and keep an eye on your kids when they are out and about. Just be cautious, and for more information on bear tips, go to <a href="http://www.bearsmart.com/">www.bearsmart.com</a>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-9054367665789968902011-05-28T11:39:00.000-07:002011-05-28T18:53:31.979-07:00Big Fundrasier PlannedThere is a massive fundraiser in the works, so mark your calendars for July Long and plan to be up north! Cheap tickets for those who weren't evacuated, absolutely free for those who are from that area and were effected by the fires!<br /><br />The website launches June 3!<br /><a href="http://www.slavelakeaid.com/">www.slavelakeaid.com</a>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-52177003622393507112011-05-26T23:09:00.000-07:002011-05-27T20:48:34.804-07:00Super Important Update for Evacuees<span style="color:#cccccc;">We are just now having trouble with phone lines (unrelated to fire) so those whose homes are damaged or destroyed who should call 780-849-8175. With patience they can call that number and we will assess their needs. That will help us in our future planning.</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"><strong>Access and Housing Team in Slave Lake</strong></span>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-43048808547028488092011-05-26T23:08:00.000-07:002011-05-26T23:09:43.557-07:00Help Edmonton!There is a gentlemen on his way from Kelowna to Edmonton right now with a van full of things for Slave Lake - problem? All of a sudden no one is taking donations. Do you have a solution for temporary storage please??? If so - contact <a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</a> ASAP! Thanks!<br /><br />Reminder:<br />In talking with the Government of Alberta's Operations Center, we've come up with a plan. In order to figure out how much space they need to store the donations, we need to know what you have!<br />Please email me <a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com"><span style="color:#ff9900;">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</span></a> with what kind of donations you have, if you can provide as much detail as possible, how big of a load, (ex. #of boxes, tractor trailer, trunk-full, etc.)<br />I am compiling an "inventory list" (best words for it I think) for the Government and will be passing that off to them. So if you could let me know asap, email that information, and we will work on getting you your space backAngie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-65109627575609610802011-05-26T23:01:00.001-07:002011-05-26T23:04:53.478-07:00Fantastic Calgary!In addition to Ms. Nikita Grai FANTASTICAL efforts in Calgary, comes these lovely ladies and their kick ass donation organization and drive!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiora6t786acNGXJpc5sotfvyqs41jdyLfZXmvSU8wdUFbNvkmhUH4xGxDZaixDCQtB_PgNb403iDyfupVgYR9YLZTQzuT1OrLY2dZRsidOxOsQ0DrOgOp3yslHdPSlV-ZPh7bJudnaS74/s1600/Drive+%2526+Party-Final.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 542px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 507px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611272555067576898" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiora6t786acNGXJpc5sotfvyqs41jdyLfZXmvSU8wdUFbNvkmhUH4xGxDZaixDCQtB_PgNb403iDyfupVgYR9YLZTQzuT1OrLY2dZRsidOxOsQ0DrOgOp3yslHdPSlV-ZPh7bJudnaS74/s400/Drive+%2526+Party-Final.jpg" /></a></div>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-21479382693172523862011-05-26T22:49:00.000-07:002011-05-26T22:55:27.771-07:00Library Update!<p><strong><span style="color:#cccccc;">Rebuilding the Slave Lake Library – one Donation at a Time</span></strong> </p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">The public library in the Town of Slave Lake was completely destroyed on Sunday, May 15, as a result of a huge forest fire. The beautiful new Rotary Club of Slave Lake Public Library had just opened in 2010.</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">About forty per cent of the Town is gone and support for those who lost their homes and possessions is pouring in via the Red Cross and other organizations. Support for the library is also pouring in. Libraries, bookstores, publishers and other library-related organizations have been in touch with Peace Library System to see how they can help the library rebuild. Here’s what you can do:</span> </p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;"><strong>Donations of new or nearly new books</strong> to: (no more than two years old) can be shipped to Peace Library System headquarters where they will be catalogued, processed and stored until a temporary library opens in Slave Lake. Please ship to:</span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Peace Library System</span> <span style="color:#cccccc;">8301 – 110 Street</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">Grande Prairie, AB T8W 6T2</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">ATTN: Books for Slave Lake Library</span> </p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;"><strong>Cash donations</strong> can be made by going to the library’s web page at </span><a href="http://www.slavelakelibrary.ab.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color:#cccccc;">www.slavelakelibrary.ab.ca</span></a><span style="color:#cccccc;"> and clicking on the “Make a Donation” link.</span> </p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">The Slave Lake Library and Peace Library System thank all who make a contribution to rebuilding the library.For additional information, please contact Carol Downing, Assistant Director, at cdowning@peacelibrarysystem.ab.ca</span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-46922779022210702212011-05-26T22:22:00.001-07:002011-05-26T22:33:19.104-07:00Drive Safe Tomorrow!<span style="color:#cccccc;">Hope everyone gets home safely tomorrow, please do not speed or tailgate, the last thing that needs to happen is a massive pile-up on highway 2!</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><strong><u><span style="color:#cccccc;">Important Phone Number Update:</span></u></strong><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">We are just now having trouble with phone lines (unrelated to fire) so those whose homes are damaged or destroyed who should call 780-849-8681. With patience they can call that number and we will assess their needs. That will help us in our future planning.</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">Access and Housing Team in Slave Lake.</span><br /><br /><br /><div style="RIGHT: auto"><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span></div><br /><u><span style="color:#cccccc;">Here are some other good updates for you!</span></u><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">Whiteway Laundromat is now open and operating 24 hours a day in Plaza 2000<br />Allarie Laundromat is now open 24 hours a day<br />Both Laundromats are self serve at this time, so bring your own change and soap<br />Allarie Cleaners main plant will be full operational on Monday<br /><br />The Brick is up and operating. They have several semi trailer loads of fridges and freezers on the way to Slave Lake and they are prepared to work with everyone to get you exactly what you need to get you kitchen and house back to normal. The first 3 loads of appliance will be arriving Friday mornin</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">The playground equipment has been hosed off, the traffic lights are working...</span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">The Community Service Centre is located in Slave Lake at St. Mary's of the Lake. This Centre is a location that each and every resident has to check in and register with before heading to their houses</span>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-65381442826119602092011-05-26T11:25:00.000-07:002011-05-26T11:30:45.011-07:00Big Donations AnnouncementSo what are you supposed to do with those donations now? They've been collecting space in your home/garage/business and you want to know the best way to get them to Slave Lake... I've got your answer! In talking with the Government of Alberta's Operations Center, we've come up with a plan. In order to figure out how much space they need to store the donations, we need to know what you have!<br /><br />Please email me <a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</a> with what kind of donations you have, if you can provide as much detail as possible, how big of a load, (ex. #of boxes, tractor trailer, trunk-full, etc.)<br /><br />I am compiling an "inventory list" (best words for it I think) for the Government and will be passing that off to them. So if you could let me know asap, email that information, and we will work on getting you your space back.<br /><br />Thank you a MILLION times over for your generosity.<br /><br />Please note grad attire including dresses and suits, and wedding attire donations are not a part of this inventory, please email details about those seperately. Thank you!Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-32060068838863687382011-05-26T11:07:00.001-07:002011-05-26T11:07:55.672-07:00Giving out some Happy Thoughts and Messages<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Georgia"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">So while we wait for <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Slave</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Lake</st1:placetype></st1:place> and area to get to go home, I thought of a little project. Talking with numerous evacuees, kids and even school officials there is one clear message - some spirits need to be lifted. Especially those of the kids. What they went through is extrememly traumatic, and even the smell of smoke and I heard from a cousin is scary for her little guy. So how about this? How about we cheer some folks up?<br /><br />Take a picture of yourself/kids/whoever, holding a sign that has an inspirational message (ex. We are thinking of you <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Slave</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Lake</st1:placetype></st1:place>) etc... Or even a short video with you holding a saying. Whatever you can do, send it to me, and I am compiling something special for them, that will be sent to the town and to youtube of course as well. My email: </span><a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</span></a><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><br /><br />This was put out a couple days ago, only recieved 3 pics, cmon <st1:state st="on">Alberta</st1:state> and <st1:country-region st="on"><st1:place st="on">Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region> - lets lift some spirits!<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p></span></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-37865330149828196482011-05-26T10:19:00.000-07:002011-05-26T10:20:21.087-07:00Eye Glass Aide from Pearle Vision<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma; COLOR: black; FONT-SIZE: 17pt"><span style="font-size:100%;color:#cccccc;"><em>From Facebook:</em></span></span></p><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: Tahoma; COLOR: black; FONT-SIZE: 17pt"><span style="font-size:100%;color:#cccccc;">Just had a call from Joanne at Pearle Vision in Edson. If you've lost or left your glasses behind as you evacuated, you can receive a free pair from your nearest Pearle Vision location, including <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Edmonton</st1:place></st1:city> and Edson. Way to go, Pearle Vision! Thank you!</span></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-68492971674152735682011-05-25T23:03:00.001-07:002011-05-26T11:01:43.566-07:00Almost Cried Today...<span style="color:#cccccc;">I didn't cry throughout the devistation, awful images of a hometown near mine, nor did I cry with frustration as I heard how cousins and friends lost their homes. And than today I really almost did, well not going to lie there were a couple tears... </span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">I heard Jamie Coutts, fire chief of Slave Lake - describe the heroism of him and his firefighters along side other volunteer firefighters from other towns, including the hamlet of Smiths' volunteer department, descibe the events of May 15, 2011.<br /><br />Jamie Coutts and volunteer department fought hard with the Smith volunteer fire department since Friday night, when the blaze first started, and on Sunday in the night were joined by Athabasca and many others. And they are still working at it today. Working at it to bring people home. Battling hot spots, being seperated from their families, to bring the families of Slave Lake and area home.<br /><br />Watching Jamie on youtube made me realize how dangerous things were, how awful and scary they were, for the men and women who volunteered to stay on the ground and try desperately to save the town of Slave Lake. Watching the spotting occur, where the fire jumps and sparks fly meters and meters taken by the wind, to ignite whatever they want to land on. To try and save something that is one minute fine, the next engulfed in flames and trying to take its neighborhood with it. Fire pretty much raining from the sky, smoke so thick you cannot see, and limited resources. </span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">This is what they had to deal with, those volunteers including childhood friends I've known since we were in diapers and my own baby brother. (who will kick my ass for calling him that now that he's 19 and all...) But they put themselves on the front line of battle, in danger - to fight one of the worst fires in the history of this country.<br /><br />But the way Jamie describes it, is the way they describe it that really hits home. And calling them heros - they shrug it off, because they "did what they had to do." They got people out safely, they fought to save the hospital, and not just the fire department, but emergency crews, RCMP, Special Constables, SRD and more - even civilians, stayed through Sunday night until help arrived and continued to stay to make every effort the could to save things. And although there was no sleep for 33+ hours, no showers, no rest, clean socks or even underwear, and there was no relief until Sunday - those men and women worked so, so, so hard, and luckily everyone got out ok. Luckily no one was taken by that awful wildfire.<br /><br />As Jamie says there wasn't enough equipment, water, nor enough manpower but instead of giving up they stayed to fight, and we know the hospital still stands today because of them. A lot of the town that is still standing is there today because of them. Volunteers, like we were recently, to sort clothes and collect donations, but those actions did not risk our lives, not like the heroic actions taken by these men and women. The volunteers and workers that stayed and had to watch their family drive away as they stayed bravely, that stayed though the onslaught of ferocious winds and deadly flames - and for that, I think hero just isn't a big enough term. </span><span style="color:#cccccc;"><br /><br />Also, a moment of silence for the pilot who lost his life in a horrible crash into Slave Lake. Our prayers are with his family. </span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">To help out Jamie and team, as well as other volunteer fire fighters who are volunteering on call for many nights of the year, who risk it during awful weather to go to accident scenes, or battle fires, please visit </span><a href="http://www.thefirewithin.ca/"><span style="color:#cccccc;">http://www.thefirewithin.ca/</span></a><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;"></span><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">To donate directly to the Slave Lake Volunteer Fire Department, I have the address. Email me at </span><a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com"><span style="color:#cccccc;">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</span></a><span style="color:#cccccc;"> </span><br /><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">For Jamie's interviews, visit </span><br /><br /><p style="MARGIN: 0cm 0cm 10pt" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Calibri;color:#ccffff;"><a href="http://www.canada.com/news/Slave+Lake+fire+chief+describes+last+stand+volunteers/4833716/story.html">http://www.canada.com/news/Slave+Lake+fire+chief+describes+last+stand+volunteers/4833716/story.html</a></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-7808995012596525302011-05-25T18:22:00.000-07:002011-05-25T18:30:01.820-07:00Firefighters First putting Slave Lake First<span style="color:#ff6666;">WOW this is unreal! Look at this amazing website that is supporting Jamie & crew from the Slave Lake Volunteer Fire Department, who also work with Fred & crew and the Smith Volunteer Fire Department! And now, not only are they raising money through t-shirt sales, but they are also asking people to donate very generously to the Slave Lake department and Motorola is matching donations: "Motorola Solutions Foundation has generously offered their support to the Slave Lake Volunteer firefighters and their families. The Foundation will match the first $5000 of donations received."</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">As a big sister of a volunteer fireman who worked on the Slave Lake Fire, I say support this with all your might if you can! Repost and let ppl know on social media too!</span><br /><a href="http://www.thefirewithin.ca/"><span style="color:#ff6666;">www.thefirewithin.ca</span></a><span style="color:#ff6666;"> </span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">And I am just sayin, looks like some cute boys on their calendars for sale ladies!</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><strong><u><span style="color:#ff6666;">Check out some of their posts:</span></u></strong><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">Many of the firefighters of the Slave Lake fire department have lost their homes and all their possessions, yet continue to volunteer and fight valiantly for their community.<br />When the fighting is done they will have little to come home to. Please take the time to donate and help us to tell the story of the Slave Lake Volunteer Firefighters.<br />Firefighters1st will send a special edition </span><a class="thickbox" href="http://www.blogger.com/lib/ajax/ajax_thickbox_product_gallery.php?product=32&image=1&height=470&width=800" jquery1306373105685="2"><span style="color:#ff6666;">T-shirt</span></a><span style="color:#ff6666;">, honoring the Slave Lake volunteers, to the first 100 people to donate more than $50. **Please indicate sizing in the PayPal note to sender [2nd page]</span><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">**<em>NOTE: A portion of the proceeds </em>Many of the firefighters of the Slave Lake fire department have lost their homes and all their possessions, yet continue to volunteer and fight valiantly for their community.</span><br /><br /><h3><br /><p><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span style="font-family:georgia;">The Latest: The effort to raise funds for the Firefighters of Slave Lake and their families has been progressing quite well. We still have a small mountain to climb to achieve our goal of raising $20,000 in support of the firefighters who continue to fight even</span> thought they've lost everything and their town is in ruins. </span></span></p><br /><p><span style="color:#ff6666;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Your support is still greatly appreciated and will go a long way in helping the Firefighters of Slave Lake start to rebuild.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> All proceeds go directly to the firefighters and their families of Slave Lake. </span><span style="font-size:100%;">Many thanks to all supporters.</span></span></p></h3>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-54762875551354695962011-05-25T16:39:00.000-07:002011-05-26T11:07:29.968-07:00Businesses Don't ForgetAs Slave Lake Logistics Team plans to do more clean-up, we'd like to thank the businesses who have stepped up FREE OF CHARGE to help. I have been compiling a list for the logistics team, so if you would like to add your business to it, please contact me at <a href="mailto:angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com">angie.mcconnell@hotmail.com</a><br /><br />Also, if any businesses are still waiting to donate funds, we are looking at one business to be a scholarship provider for a one time scholarship this year. Please contact for more info.<br /><br />Thanks again for your generosity!Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-25457481753973116052011-05-25T13:52:00.000-07:002011-05-25T14:03:21.378-07:00Re-Entry Q and A<p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><span class="title">Coming home - question and answers about when and how residents and businesses will return to Slave Lake and area</span> </span><br /><br /><p><strong><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">What is the four-phase plan?</span></strong><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">Your local officials have organized a four-phase approach for the safe and orderly return of residents and businesses to return to the community. The phases are necessary to allow municipal officials and essential services staff and personnel the time to support people going back into their homes, including such things as turning power and gas on in each building.</span><br /></p><br /><ul><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Phase 1</strong> - Recovery of Critical Infrastructure. This phase is complete. It entails repairs and restoration to critical infrastructure and utilities to allow essential service workers to return and perform their key functions; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Phase 2</strong> - Staffing of Essential Services. This phase will see the movement of essential workers (those individuals and their immediate family that support the critical infrastructure, protective, health and fire services and governance of the community) to either their undamaged homes or temporary accommodations in the region to service all functions in Phase 1. This phase ends when all of the re-entry criteria have been met;<strong></strong> </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Phase 3</strong> - Reestablishing Regional Key Business Components. This phase will see key business owners and workers of businesses that are undamaged return to the community. This phase will also allow businesses and workers to access the town temporarily and retrieve their business vehicles and/or tools if they work elsewhere and depend on this equipment for their livelihood. The EOC will directly contact the business owners to inform them when they can return to the community; and<strong></strong> </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Phase 4</strong> - General Re-entry of Evacuees. This phase will commence on order issued by the EOC and will see the general re-entry of families. This will be supported by a traffic plan. </span></li></ul><br /><br /><p><strong><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">Who is being allowed to return now? Why?</span></strong><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">A state of local emergency remains in place for the Town of Slave Lake. However, with Phase 1 complete, the EOC has determined it is safe to move forward with Phase 2 of the plan which allows for essential service workers and their families to return home. Essential service workers include health care providers, utility personnel, protective and fire service personnel, local government and community officials.</span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Who makes the decision on when people will be allowed back to Slave Lake and area?</strong><br />The primary focus continues to be on safety for all workers and returning evacuees.</span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">The Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) in the Town of Slave Lake and the MD of Lesser Slave River has determined that critical safety criteria have been met and a phased re-entry into the community can commence.</span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">A four-phase plan has been developed to ensure a safe and orderly return to the community by evacuees. The plan was endorsed by the Town of Slave Lake, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River and the Government of Alberta and included input from the Sawridge First Nation. </span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">As criteria are met, the next phase of the plan will be implemented. Updates will be issued on the progress of the plan and posted on wildfiresupport.alberta.ca and hardcopies supplied to information and reception centres. </span><br /></p><br /><p><strong><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">What needs to happen before all evacuees can return to Slave Lake?</span></strong><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">Before local officials can make the decision to allow all residents to return to their communities, all of the following criteria must be met:</span><br /></p><br /><ul><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">drinking water declared safe by Alberta Health Services; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">there is no longer a threat of wildfires re-starting in Slave Lake, Sawridge or the MD of Lesser Slave River; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">essential services including governance, utilities, 911, and protective services declared in operation by the Emergency Operation Centre; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">health services declared in operation by Alberta Health Services; and </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">re-entry support, including the arrangement of temporary housing and the opening of a Community Social Centre, declared in place and operational. </span></li></ul><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>How will other residents be notified when they will be allowed back in?</strong><br /><br />All residents will be allowed to return when Phase 4 is ready to be implemented.<br />Updates will be issued as the plan progresses and posted on wildfiresupport.alberta.ca and hardcopies supplied to evacuation reception centres.</span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">Evacuees are advised to check with evacuation reception centres for situation updates, or visit the Slake Lake or Municipal District of Lesser Slave River websites (</span><a href="http://www.slavelake.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">www.slavelake.ca</span></a><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"> or </span><a href="http://www.md124.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">http://www.md124.ca</span></a><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">). The Red Cross database will also be used to provide direct information to displaced residents, which may include facts sheets and timelines for re-entry, it is important that all evacuees be registered with the Red Cross.</span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Will I have power and gas as soon as I get back in my home or business?</strong><br /><br />As residents return, inspections will be conducted and gas and power will be restored on a<br />site-by-site basis. Additional technicians will be on-hand to address any problems as systems are re-started. Residents should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours - including drinking water.</span></p><br /><br /><p><strong><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">What are the key businesses identified to return in Phase 3?</span></strong><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">The EOC will directly contact the business owners to inform them when they can return to the community. Examples of business that will be allowed back in this phase include food, pharmacy and banking. </span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>I have no way to get back to my home. Will I be provided with transportation back to Slave Lake when we are allowed back?</strong><br /><br />When it is deemed safe to have all evacuees return to the community, the EOC will ensure a safe and orderly return of residents. The Provincial Operation Centre will arrange for ground transportation as required. Residents with vehicles may return to the community in those vehicles. </span></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;"><strong>Where can I get more information?</strong><br />Call toll-free 310-4455 for current information about the wildfire situation, road closures, telephone numbers, and how to get more information for specific questions. </span><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#c0c0c0;">Updates will be posted on the wildfiresupport.alberta.ca website and hardcopies supplied to information and reception centres.</span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-43895163947898071982011-05-25T13:48:00.001-07:002011-05-25T14:03:56.099-07:00Re-Entry Plan<span style="color:#999999;"><span class="Date">May 25, 2011</span><br /></span><span style="color:#cccccc;"><span class="Title">Phased re-entry into Slave Lake and area starts today</span><br /><span class="SubTitle">Essential services allowed to enter town first</span> </span><span class="Location"><br /><span style="color:#cccccc;">Slave Lake...</span></span><span style="color:#cccccc;"> <span class="Body">The Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) in the Town of Slave Lake has determined that critical safety criteria have been met and a phased re-entry into the community can commence. </span></span><br /><span class="Body"><span style="color:#cccccc;">A four-phase plan has been developed to ensure a safe and orderly return of evacuees to the community. The plan was endorsed by the Town of Slave Lake, the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River and the Government of Alberta and included input from the Sawridge First Nation. </span></span><br /><span class="Body"><span style="color:#cccccc;">Phase 1 of the re-entry plan was to ensure critical infrastructure was in place. This is complete and the following criteria have been met:</span> </span><span class="Body"><br /><br /><ul><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">There is no longer a threat of wildfires re-starting in Slave Lake, Sawridge or the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">Power is fully restored; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">Natural gas service is restored in areas that were not damaged by the fire; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">Phone service is restored to all areas not damaged by the fire. Free cell phones will be provided to residents and businesses in the damaged areas; </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">Protective services are in place - fire, EMS and police; and </span><br /><br /><li><span style="color:#cccccc;">Water services are restored. A boil water advisory is still in effect. </span></li></ul><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">With this work complete, the EOC has determined it is safe to move forward with Phase 2 of the plan which allows for essential service workers and their families to return home. Essential service workers include health care providers, utility personnel, protective and fire service personnel, local government and community officials. <strong>The EOC has begun contacting all identified essential service workers directly to inform them that it is important they return to the community immediately. </strong></span><br /></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">The state of local emergency remains in place. RCMP will continue to operate roadblocks and will turn back any person that is not cleared to enter. </span><br /></p><br /><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">“Thanks to the tireless efforts of more than 1,400 dedicated professionals, we are prepared to start allowing essential service staff and their families back into our community,” said Karina Pillay-Kinnee, Mayor of Slave Lake. “I must stress that we are still under a state of local emergency and this is not a general call for people to return to our community - we still have a tremendous amount of work to do between now and then.” </span><br /><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Having essential service personnel return to the community is imperative before the town and municipal district are ready to proceed with the final two phases of the re-entry plan:</span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Phase 3 - re-establishing regional key business components. This phase will see key business owners and workers of businesses that are undamaged return to the community. This phase will also allow businesses and workers to access the town temporarily and retrieve their business vehicles and/or tools if they work elsewhere and depend on this equipment for their livelihood. The EOC will directly contact the business owners to inform them when they can return to the community; and<strong></strong> </span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">Phase 4 - general re-entry of evacuees. This phase will commence on order issued by the EOC and will see the general re-entry of families. This will be supported by a traffic plan and additional information will be made available to residents prior to re-entry. </span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">“I want to commend the evacuees for their patience,” added Denny Garratt, Reeve of the MD of Lesser Slave River. “Once all essential services are ready, we will start to allow key businesses to return home to ensure that we have a functioning community that is ready to support all displaced residents.” </span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">“You cannot underestimate the level of detail and necessary checks that are needed to begin the re-entry process,” said Alberta Municipal Affairs Minister Hector Goudreau. “The phased-in approach allows us to ensure that the appropriate level of support is ready and available for the safe return of residents to their community.” </span><br /></p><br /><p><span style="color:#cccccc;">A copy of the Slave Lake Region Community Re-entry Plan is available online at </span><a title="Wildfire Support" href="http://www.wildfiresupport.alberta.ca/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#cccccc;">http://www.wildfiresupport.alberta.ca/</span></a><span style="color:#cccccc;">. Updates will be issued on the progress of the plan and posted to the site and hardcopies supplied to information and reception centre.</span></span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-68694730525753943862011-05-25T08:53:00.000-07:002011-05-25T09:07:50.289-07:00Important Update from the Red Cross<p class="ecxMsoNormal"><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Registration</span></b></p><br /><p class="ecxMsoNormal"><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></span></b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">All evacuees will be required to have registered with the Canadian Red Cross prior to being given their Government of Alberta cheques. Evacuees who have not registered will be required to register with the Canadian Red Cross in person at locations where Red Cross volunteers are on site or via the Telus Canadian Red Cross Call Centre by phoning 1-800-565-4483. </span></p><br /><p><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Disaster Assistance Cheques</span></b></p><br /><p><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></span></b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Evacuees will be able to receive their Disaster Assistance cheques from the Government of Alberta at any Alberta Works office in the province. Cheques can also be collected at Service Centers, in Athabasca, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, High Prairie, Peace River, Valleyview, Wabasca, Westlock and Smith. The Service Centres will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.</span></p><br /><p class="ecxMsoNormal"><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Accessing Provincial Government Assistance</span></b></p><br /><p class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">The Government of Alberta has set up a toll free information line for evacuees that have questions related to the fire, programs and services that the Alberta government can provide. Evacuees are encouraged to call the </span><b><span style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Alberta Supports Contact Center 1-877-644-9992</span></b><span style="FONT-SIZE: 10pt"> for more information. </span><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"></span></p><br /><p class="ecxMsoNormal"><b><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">Unmet Needs</span></b></p><br /><p class="ecxMsoNormal"><span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Arial', 'sans-serif'; FONT-SIZE: 10pt">If you still have unmet needs, the Canadian Red Cross may be able assist those who have had fire-related damage to their home and are suffering hardship as a result of the disaster. Red Cross help can include information, food, basic repairs, household goods, occupational needs and clean-up kits equipped with general cleaning supplies. To learn more phone 1-800-565-4483.</span></p>Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4438265185865193038.post-82882736970409542242011-05-25T08:41:00.000-07:002011-05-25T08:53:06.744-07:00Red Cross ConversationAfter a great conversation with the Red Cross, I have cleared some of your questions up! Many were asking - where is the $600,000 that was donated to Slave Lake? Why are we only getting the government money? Why is the Red Cross only registering us on site and not volunteering or helping at the evac sites?<br /><br />Here is the answer:<br />Of course we cannot always see whats going on behind the scenes, but when you are evacuated and see all this money go to an organization, you worry and wonder whats going to happen to it. Rumors start swirling and the end result is angry questions.<br /><br />The money donated to Slave Lake WILL stay in Slave Lake, as long as the funds were earmarked Slave Lake Wildfires. If you are donating, please be sure to do that. And than even if it takes 10 years to go through that money, the Red Cross will ensure it stays with Slave Lake until it is all spent. (Remember the Pine Lake tornado? They just closed that case file and distributed the last of the funds to those in need, so you know they are sticking by their word, that was over 10 years ago!)<br /><br />The Red Cross is planning on setting up shop in Slave Lake long term to help the people effected by these fires. Whatever needs have to be met will be based on assessment of each individual and family and the Red Cross will act accordingly. They plan to give assistance, help out, and get people back on their feet again. A preliminary team is in Slave Lake right now planning and assessing things.<br /><br />Also, the Red Cross has open case files of evacuees they are looking to find after family has called in and wondered where they were. They have been able to call families and let them know where there loved ones are and that they are safe, and are still working on open cases. It is massively important that your register with the Red Cross, because we don't want you to be one of those open cases and have your families worried.<br /><br />Thank you so so so much Red Cross for calling back, and letting these questions get asked, and giving answers. Its so hard to know whats going on when you are evcuated and not too sure whats going on around you, when you can go home, etc, and this I hope can help you out.<br /><br />So earmark those funds properly, and donate-away to the Red Cross - they have a stellar reputation, and despite this kink of not knowing what was happening and no communication, we finally have gotten that communication and it is positive and the Red Cross will help the people of Slave Lake and area for as long as they are needed.<br /><br />Bless you Red Cross & your volunteers!Angie McConnellhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13253432374893617953noreply@blogger.com1