Condolences to those whose homes were lost in the Wall Fire

Our condolences go out to all those who lost their homes in the Wall Fire. They didn’t just lose a structure or a residence, as noted in official reports. They lost their valuables, their keepsakes. For most of us, our home is the center of our universe – you orient your world around where you live.

As of reports Wednesday, more than 40 homes had been destroyed. There could be more.

Counseling services were being provided in Oroville to help evacuees find out the fate of their homes and, if they were among those who lost their homes, how to deal with the tragedy.

Reporters have talked to a few evacuees and at least one who lost a home. It’s a trying time for them and for the surrounding communities. But the story needs to be told and explained and we need to face the realities of fire, of living in a fire-prone area, what can happen and what to do.

This is an area that’s acquainted with the forces of nature. People have been evacuated in the past for fire and flood. Many have lost their homes.

Still, it’s a good place to live, and here’s one reason why: An abundance of people who care about their neighbors quickly flooded relief agencies with goods after evacuations were ordered in Butte County, north of Bangor, just across the county line.

They responded to such an extent that a call was put out to suspend donations because there were more supplies than could be used. But just let another call come out that more donations are needed and we’re positive the needs would be met in no time.