A bit of encouraging news: So far this evening the winds have not developed as they did last night. This has allowed the firefighters to continue to make progress on the blaze without having to worry about being overwhelmed by very high winds in the area. Thank God.
—-and a little bit more encouragement—
Here is a bit of the chatter posted at a website where concerned parents and others are talking about the fire at Westmont and the response of the school to the situation. Let me say that my experience of Mark “the RD” as we call him–is exactly as described below. I am sure that many, many of the staff and faculty acted in such a manner. It is to the credit of the school that they seem to have gotten through this so far with so little loss, at least, compared to what it could have been. These posts are from topix.com
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Another Westmont Parent
Eureka, CA
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As a parent, I was so amazed to receive emails from the parents@westmont & the alum@ westmont–to these two groups–thank you!! This is my son’s first year so I was unaware of this fantastic service!!! My son lives off camus but was told to evacuate their apt last night. I’ve spoken w/ him this AM. I am praying for all.
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Lisa
Arusha, Tanzania, United Republic of
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I think the school has done a fantastic job of communicating. Let’s remember they were fighting a fire all night. I know one faculty member who spent all night helping students while his own home burned to the ground. I’m sure there were many faculty doing the same.
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Colorado Mom
Denver, CO
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While I was frustrated last night not to have more information, I was so glad they were busy taking care of our beloved children. My daughter told me that Mark, the RD, practically yelled at the firefighters as they were trying to save his home, asking them to save the students’ dorms instead. How blessed we are that our students are surrounded by people who truly love them. I can’t imagine how much closer everyone will be having gone through this together. FYI, for those whose students lost personal items in the fire, I talked to State Farm and they said my homeowners’ insurance will cover my daughter’s personal belongings.
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This entry was posted on
Friday, November 14, 2008 at +00:0020082830UTC14: pm30 and is filed under Personal.
Tags: Mark the RD, Santa Barbara Fire, tea fire, Westmont College, Westmont College Fire, Westmont Fire
Stumble It!
Saturday, November 15, 2008 at +00:0020080430UTC15: am30
I am so amazed by Westmont’s administrations quick response. It shines very clear and true, they are an incredible group, our children’s safety was their number one priority. I am grateful my daughter is safe and thankful for communication so quickly from staff.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all.
Saturday, November 15, 2008 at +00:0020084030UTC15: am30
My son made a wonderful choice in schools four years ago and we are truly blessed to have him at Westmont. It is heart braking to see part of the school torched by fire but it is truly amazing to see how the Westmont Community coming together and caring for one another. My prayers are with them all and thankful they are all safe. The future will bring brighter days. Love and prayers to all.