Sometime during the night of Friday, December 13th a fire started in Al Runte and Mikki Douglass's garage, destroying everything inside, including her ATV, bikes, scooter, brand new skis and most of her mushing gear. Al's tools and whatever it is that men keep in garages are gone as well. The heat from the fire also destroyed her travel trailer and then the flames spread to their home. Her barking dogs alerted them and they were able to safely evacuate the house dogs and themselves. Kittitas County FD quickly arrived and extinguished the flames, saving their house.

Obviously Mikki is devastated but thankful that all beating hearts are safe, although Al suffered a serious burn on his leg. She is a beloved member of our mushing community and as dog people, we stick together and help each other in times of need. Every little bit helps, because there but for the Grace of God go all of us. Thank you!