As you may already know, JB lost all of his possessions and, very nearly, his life, in the devastating Mountain View Fire this Tuesday.  Fraying power lines gave way in the sleepy Sierra Nevada town of Walker, California during especially strong winds.  JB tried to save his friend’s house, but in under 12 minutes, it collapsed.  He escaped via a nearby river which was engulfed in fire, smoke and driving dirt. In the ensuing minutes, still in the river, he reached out to loved ones and alerted others to evacuate.   JB spent the rest of the day fighting the fire and helping to protect Jeff’s restaurant.

Here’s an image of the fire which burned 32 square miles in half a day

What remains of the house

My name is Ella Chichester and I live in Coleville,the town next to Walker.  I have had the good fortune to call JB a neighbor and a friend.  I know he would feel awkward about the idea of a fundraiser in his name, but if ever there were a person who’d deserved this and more, it would be JB.  I haven’t known him as long as many of you, but I know he’s loyal, hardworking, kind, and generous with his time and talents to a fault.  He’s fixed things, built things, set his mind to things, and achieved things without fanfare or fuss.   He helps people. Now he needs our help for clothing, a laptop and tools, and to get his life back on track. 

Lest he try to talk me out of it, I’m not showing this to JB.  Any minor inaccuracies in this account are mine, but as you know him, you will recognize his selflessness, resourcefulness and courage.  JB saved lives in our community.  We owe him a huge debt of gratitude. Anything will help; all proceeds go directly to JB.

Thank you, 

Ella