The fire is now safely away (if such can be) from our home. In fact, most of the inhabited areas near us are out of danger. The fire is still raging, but moving away from us. We hope that it ceases to a problem quickly.

Being the mild-mannered, unopinionated person you know me to be, I had words with several lookie-loos who came up to the barricades, or stood in my driveway, binocular or cameras in hand to get a sick thrill. Mostly all they saw was a bunch of thick smoke, and helicopters which looked as if they had umbilical cords attached to their belly for the retardant drops. Some imbiciles came from 25 or so miles away for this experience. Often, they impeded the progress of emergency vehicles; at least one was ticketed that I know of.

I have not heard of any civilian deaths in connection with the various SoCal fires, but at least two brave firefighters were victims of the inferno.

My heart goes out to everybody who has lost, or has had damage to their homes, here and everywhere. Joe, I hope your friends are made as whole as can be, and really soon.

JotSC