After hearing the news of the devastating loss of the 19 hotshots in Yarnell last Sunday, my husband Jim and I decided to work through our grief by doing something positive.

Congressman Schweikert had been on the radio early Monday morning and suggested sending donations to the 100 Club of Arizona. They provide financial assistance to the families of first responders injured or killed in the line of duty.

I called the 100 Club requesting a flyer to be copied for distribution in Fountain Hills. Even though things were extremely hectic there, they e-mailed me a copy by the next day. I sent it to Barrie Blum at Copy Express for a printing of 500. When I asked how much it would cost, he said, “The flyers are ready and there is no charge.” It’s people like Barrie who bring positive energy to a very bad situation.

We started our distribution of the flyers to the business community right away beginning with Copy Express. By Thursday afternoon we had visited 70-plus businesses in Fountain Hills. They were all grateful for the opportunity to help the families of the lost 19.

We want to thank all those in the business community for their eagerness to assist and to thank those who attended and donated at the 4th of July celebration. Special thanks to “Elkie Kniffin Promotions” for putting on the event and the Fountain Hills Republican Club for allowing us to place flyers and a collection jar at their booth.

The response was outstanding.