Iowans make a difference

In true Midwestern spirit, Iowans have been reaching out to East Coast residents still reeling in wake of Newtown's tragedy.

In a time when most are unsure what to say, one is sharing her homemade apple pies that have been "made from love."

With the motto "pie is meant to be shared," Beth Howard, Eldon, has been sharing nearly 300 fruit pies from her camper in the heart of Connecticut with children, parents or anyone seeking a warm slice of comfort.

After announcing her intention to share consolation through baked treats, fans of her Pitchfork Pie Stand donated $2,000 to her cause in mere hours, and so far, $7,000 total. After setting up baking headquarters at a friend's home in New Jersey, a massive pie baking campaign ensued, with 60 volunteers prepping apples and making dough.

Her and the volunteers' benevolence has touched the community. Between busily distributing pies, Howard said the smiles she received alone were worth the long drive.

Creative outlets have helped others cope. Megan Clark, Sigourney, drew a delicate dove with victims' names in place of wings.

"I couldn't just sit and do nothing to help heal, but this---this I could do," she said, in a short explanation posted with the artwork online. "I wanted to create something...without dates, without explanation. I wanted it to be filled with emotion, peace, hope and love."

Clark plans to sign, mat and frame the drawing before sending it to Sandy Hook.

Even though Storm Lake is 1,300 miles from Newtown, we are all likely thinking, "What can I do to help?"

The U.S. Postal Service has set up an address for letters, care packages and drawings at P.O. Box 3700, Newtown, Conn., 06470.

United Way is accepting donations for the Sandy Hook School Support fund at Newtown Savings Bank, 39 Main Street, Newtown, Conn., 06470. Contributions will be distributed among affected families.

Newtown resident Brian Mauriello has established the Newtown Memorial fund to raise funds to cover police overtime, community needs and design and placement of a memorial and an annual scholarship for local graduates headed to college. Gifts are accepted online at newtownmemorialfund.org/donate.