Hi, Joan & All: This is the day after the 4th and Florida is still burning. Todays subject is not genealogical...except it is something that you can put in your present day notes. America has sent their firefighters from 44 states, to date. They have become very precious to the people of Central Florida. It is hard to imagine, I suppose, just what these people are going through...the possibility of losing their worldly possessions...those family Bibles, etc. The efforts your firefighters are making to save these homes is so heartwarming. We have had nothing but continued coverage of this fire on our three major stations, ABC, CBS & NBC. We do know that one couple went back to their home, found a note from a firefighter stating that they were sorry that the family lost a single off their roof...and they proped the shingle beside the house to be found. Two firefighters were nearly in tears because they couldn't save a structure. Its hard to believe that so many fires are burning in so many places at one time. This morning, we learned that another one was found in Longwood...Waikiva Park. I'm not familiar with the area or exactly what it is called. But your firefighters were right on the job, putting that sucker out! There is a restaurant where the owner was closing up and was approached by the fire chief...asking if they could use their place...permission was granted. Last night, the news media took us on tour...the front booths are loaded with clothing...articles needed for the firefighters, cough drops, things for the eyes, pain medication, snacks, goodies...you name it...they had it for these heroes of the fire.They are feeding firefighters around the clock. Oh yes, lots and lots of water. I understand that some residents who were told to evacuate, left their house keys with the firefighters, telling them to use the showers, rest take a swim...that there were swim suits they could use. When your firefightes come home, America, they are going to be just a wee bit spoiled. The people of Central Florida have fallen in love with them. We would rather drive by the fire station and see them sitting in front, watching traffic...earning their money that way, than having to put out fires such as these...well, any fire. So, when you are asked to increase their pay, give the increase. They have proven to Central Florida that they are ready to take on any problem fire. Central Florida is losing not only acreage...500,000 to date, but revenue.You can be proud of these people who guard your own communities. They are going above and beyond the call of duty. They have tried to save businesses as well as animals. We thank you. I understand that 65 more people and equipment are coming down from North Carolina. Thank you. Why am I concerned? I live in the country on ten acres. We have five, ten and twenty acres in my little neighborhood. We lost 20 acres just a couple weeks ago. Our firefighters who were only a couple minutes away, put it out and stayed on the job until they were sure that there would be no reoccurrence. I'm sure you have seen State Road 46 & I-95 on the map. I'm just down the road a piece. Another thing, I have bronchial asthma and the smoke is a natural enemy. Right now, I'm alright, but me and my oxygen tanks may have to go to southern Florida to visit our son. They have had way more rain. Sorry this is so long, but many people here have been shedding tears for their momentoes they had to leave. I intend to take my notebooks, albums, computer disks and antique dolls when I go. My husband will stay and our tenants will help look after the property. Not having to worry about me will be a big help. So far, 400 homes that we know of have been lost. Some people only had five minutes to evacuate. Just think what you would take if you were told that you had only five minutes to leave. Some were told to get the car keys and go. What would you take if you had to face a choice like that? Guess its backup time for all of us! Thank you, America, for sharing your firefighters. We love them! Kay from Geneva, FL PS: Joan...I saw a N.J. fire truck on our news. Usually, you can't see the insignia. Just saw a man by the name of Ross Fenton from NJ on our news. I'm watching the tv while typing. The news media was interviewing a few firefighters from NJ just now...they were asked why leave their home and come here to fight fires on the 4th of July??? The answer was that it was a job that had to be done. A Maryland contengent was to leave yesterday heading for Central FL.