On Nov. 8, two separate fires began in parts of southern and northern California that took the lives and homes of many. The Woolsey Fire started near Simi Valley, affecting parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Once flames reached the campus of Pepperdine University, controversy arose regarding the evacuation and safety of the students. As of last week, the fire destroyed almost 100,000 acres and has reached 100 percent containment.
The Camp Fire started in Butte County, nearly destroying the town of Paradise and severely contaminating the air of surrounding cities in northern California. The fire reached 100 percent containment as of Nov. 25, after having destroyed more than 150,000 acres and claiming the lives of 85 people while nearly 250 are still unaccounted for – classifying it as the deadliest and most destructive fire in state history.
President Ochoa sent an email to the students of California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) on Nov. 16 giving his condolences to those being directly affected by both fires and detailing what to do in case of a similar emergency on campus. Embedded were several links to varying resources such as CSUMB’s Emergency Management, updated information regarding the fires, Personal Growth & Counseling Center and the Dean of Students Office contact information.
The Lutrinae also reached out to our fellow publication at California State University, Chico (CSUC), Chico State Today. As of Nov. 14, more than 1,640 CSUC students had reported being affected by the fires, with 166 losing their homes and 727 being evacuated. It is extremely likely that students at CSUMB are being affected as well – if the impact of the fires are causing you to miss school, the Dean of Students Office can help manage classes and options for the remainder of the semester.
In regards to how the students of CSUMB can help those of CSUC, the Wildcats Rise Fire Recovery Fund is a fundraiser established by the university in hopes of raising money that would directly benefit the community – including students, faculty and staff.
Despite almost having reached their goal of $400,000, the cost of damages caused by the Camp Fire is unmeasurable. Donations can be made by texting “Wildcats Rise” to 71777 or by visiting Chico State’s Fire Recovery Fund.