One of the many delightful aspects of writing the Caffrey Conversation series has been the opportunity to explore different settings. Some are places we've visited only virtually, and hope to see in person some day. Others places are favorite haunts. Las Vegas is one of those. We're devastated at the pain, suffering and loss of life there this week, as we are for everyone impacted by the recent hurricanes that hit Houston, Florida and Puerto Rico.
Over the years we've collected a cast of kind-hearted characters, and here's how we envision their response.
Canon character June Ellington, with her love of Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack -- certainly Las Vegas is a place she remembers fondly. She is sending love and support to her friends there.
Original character Irene Caffrey, retired actress who shares June's love of music, was already planning a benefit to help those impacted by the hurricanes. She'll plan another for the families who have lost loved ones in Las Vegas.
Irene's granddaughter Angela is heartbroken. She spent one day in Las Vegas in Caffrey Disclosure and dreamed of returning to explore further. In fact, her brief trip there included a meal at the Mandalay Bay. She'd hoped to convince her boyfriend to travel there with her for spring break, but he misunderstood -- he thought she was suggesting they elope -- and he panicked. Right now they don't know what they can do to help in Las Vegas, and want to turn their attention elsewhere. Angela's hoping to borrow her mother's plane to take supplies to areas of Puerto Rico that were cut off by the hurricane.
Neal and Henry have visited Las Vegas often, and competed to see who could get a job as a gondolier at the Venetian. Like their cousin Angela, they're eager to see how they can help. They're looking into a blood drive for the wounded. Then they may follow Angela's lead and volunteer in Puerto Rico. Eric, Henry's new significant other, has an architecture and construction background and already has experience in rebuilding efforts. He may take the lead on this one, and invite along his mentor Joe Burke.
Another character with ties to Las Vegas is Tricia. We learned in Caffrey Disclosure that her bachelorette party had been held there. She'll check to see if local law enforcement there needs any backup. However, she's also itching to join the expedition to Puerto Rico. A birder, she wants to help the local wildlife recover, and to restore habitats.
Too often we hear of terrible situations around the world and feel helpless to make a difference. We hope you'll give to trusted charities, and look for opportunities to help in the ways that are unique to your own skills and situation. Volunteering in your own community is a great way to start.
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