This is sad, sad news.  Yesterday a fire started in the downtown historic Garrettsville shopping center.  It started at one end of the street and completely destroyed about 1/3 of the block.  It must have been really hairy since the entire street is all old buildings and very close.  They were able to contain it to just the one side of the street but all buildings are totally destroyed.  Below are some of the photos posted on Fox 8 website. 

This building with the flames coming out of the top windows is my favorite.  It is called the Shaker Tree and had the most wonderful fabrics, things I have never seen elsewhere and they were so fun to work with. 

This is Sunday morning.  The reports say that 34 units responded some trucking in water after Garrettsville ran out.  About 13 businesses were destroyed.  Among them was Food bank, a used furniture shop, a craft shop, a clock repair business, a podiatrist and two attorney's offices. 

The crazy thing is that the entire block, both sides are really affected.  Until they get things secure, nothing in that street or area will be able to open for business so lots is lost for everyone.

We have had some very special experiences in the last couple of weeks.  Pauline left her family and came to visit us.  She had three full days so we filled them up and had a grand time.  Below are some pictures of our activities.

The sister missionaries have been teaching a man by the name of Jeff.  He was ready to receive the gospel but there was concern with his wife and children.  He went ahead of it and was baptized.  His wife and 2 sons came to the baptism.  He came alone to be confirmed on Sunday.  Then Saturday he and his wife and 2 sons came to the Johnson Home for a tour and it was really awesome, very spiritual.  That night they came to the church for the Chili Cook off.  Then Sunday the four of them and their daughter as well were to church.  That night the two of them traveled to Kirtland and he bore his testimony in the investigator's fireside.  He really did well.  Elder Seldon of the 70's was the main speaker and he was really good.  Shared some special experiences as well as gave some of the teachings and fundamentals of the gospel.  All in all it was a great weekend.  Oh, and Dan was able to ordain Jeff to the Aaronic Priesthood to the office of Priest.  We had an appointment to visit them but his wife is sick so we will reschedule.  I sort of feel that it was a lot for her in one weekend.  She is truly a special sister and we will try to help her.

The beds in the Johnson Home were sagging and looked very sad.  We were given permission to tighten the ropes and so we did.  It was a big job but they sure did look better after that.  After the ropes were tight we were able to remake the beds.  Definitely a process.  We had to handle all of the bedding with white gloves.  We love the home and the special things there and especially love to share it with others.  We are starting to get a few more visitors and tours for the coming months are being scheduled.  Will be a fun time.