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The Chicago Fire

The Chicago Fire of 1871 was the worst disaster of the 19th century.

The fire is said to have started one evening in Mrs. Oleary's barn (牲口棚) on the West Side of Chicago. Several hours after she milked her cow, it kicked over an oil lamp, and the cow started the fire. We do not know if the story is true, but we do know that the fire began in a bam on the West Side.

The fire spread quickly because of the wooden buildings, a strong wind, and a dry season. The fire lasted 27 hours and spread to all parts of the city. Other cities sent 25 fire companies to help put out the fire. Federal troops (联邦军队) were also used to help fight the fire and keep order, too. At last rain put out the fire.

There was a lot of damage. 90,000 people were left homeless, and 18,000 buildings were destroyed. Property damage (财产损失) was almost 200 million dollars. In addition, about 300 people died.

People from all over the world helped Chicago by sending food and clothing. Within a month 4,000 cottages (小屋) with two rooms had been built to house people. In a few years, Chicago was completely rebuilt.

World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Greenpeace are two famous organizations in the world. They both aim at making our planet a better place to live.

World Wildlife Fund works to protect wild animals and plants. It began in Switzerland on September 11,1961. Now, it has offices in 100 countries and nearly 5 million members all over the world. The members are from different groups, including governments, businesses, scientists and farmers. They have played an active role in saving animals and rainforests. One recent WWF project is protecting the Amazon rainforest. WWF has done plenty of research to find creative ways that meet the needs of both people and nature.

Greenpeace was set up in 1971, with an idea of working for world peace at the very beginning. Now it is active in protecting oceans, forests, and animals as well. It also calls for the use of clean energy, like wind power and solar power. Greenpeace has offices in 45 countries such as America and Canada. Its head office is in the Netherlands. Greenpeace has about 3 million members at present. Small steps lead to big changes. It encourages more and more people to take action.

It is Saturday morning. There is no school today. Eddie, Tom and Danny are going to the park. It is very far from our school. They are going there by bus. They are going to have a picnic in the park. They have got some bread and cakes. They have got some fruit and drinks, too. Now a bus is coming. Eddie, Tom and Danny are getting on the bus and Linda is helping an old granny to get on the bus. Eddie, Tom and Danny all smile. A young man and a young lady see that. They both stand up and say to the old lady, “Have my seat, please.” How nice they are! Then Eddie, Tom and Danny begin talking and singing. Eddie, Tom and Danny are having a good time.