By Ruth SOWBY

Katie and Doug Dickinson lost everything in the Eaton Fire. The couple is now living in an apartment next door to the La Crescenta Woman’s Club (LCWC). Katie decided to rent the LCWC Clubhouse to hold a free holiday boutique for others affected by the fires.  

“I wanted to do something,” she said. 

Her plans came to fruition on Sunday, Dec. 7. After promoting the boutique more than 300 RSVPs came in.  

 All 300-plus visitors filled the Clubhouse between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. A long line had formed before the opening. Seniors, 70 and older, were invited to enter 30 minutes early. LCWC members and friends dropped donations off before the event and on the day of the boutique. Others offered support. Kent Dellenbusch, stationed at the Clubhouse entrance, welcomed all. Club co-treasurer Robert Mortimer showed off his many pots of succulents for the taking. Club co-president Carol Stein handled publicity. Handcrafter Julie Kimiko Santos, whose Altadena home had smoke damage, made Christmas ornaments then gave them away saying, “Here’s an ornament to start some new memories.” Scout Troop 5935 also made ornaments for Santos to give away. 

Some Altadena stores sold goods during the event. Their presence reminded boutique visitors that Altadena merchants were also affected by the fires.  

Boutique visitor Debbie Melahouris lost the Altadena home she was renting. She and her family are now living in Sylmar. Carol Hernandez also lost her Altadena house in the fires. She now lives near Altadena. She and her family haven’t yet decided whether they will rebuild or not. Hernandez walked away from the boutique with her arms full of Christmas wreaths, totes and other holiday decorations.  

Clubhouse doors closed on the dot of 4 pm. Many left with brand new memories ready to make.