Dear JSN Readers,

I just wanted to give you a quick update:

The website is back to normal (well actually, nothing will ever be exactly normal after that fire) and system news updates should be happening regularly.

There are several hundred e-mails to answer, as well as a host of other personal issues that I'll need to address.  The site may be slow going again, but it will definitely pick up speed in the weeks to come.

I am happy to report that our home is still standing.  It was 3/4 of a mile from the Old Fire/Grand Prix Fire flames. The only reason it stands today is because of the heroic efforts of the Fire Fighters and support personnel during this past week.  They did an amazing job and showed everyone exactly what 1/2 heroism, 1/2 spirit, and some damn hard work can accomplish.

Let's not forget what did happen because of one sick individual however: The area is devastated and the forest is ruined for many years.  20 individuals died because of the fire.  And along with the homes (like 350 in Cedar Glen) and people's livelihoods, much of the wildlife was burned alive.

I was allowed back up to the mountain yesterday on a Resident Vol. Evac. Permit (finally downgraded from Mandatory Evac.) and saw the aftermath.  Small embers were still smoldering, patches of smoke still spiraling along the road near the burnt out signs, the whole place smelled like burnt toast.

As happy as I am that the physical house structure was saved, I want blood.  I want revenge.  And I want the arsonist responsible for lighting this fire burned alive at the stake for an HBO Pay-Per-View special.  Yes, I do.

Like everyone else, I'll have to work through these emotions myself, because I doubt this person will ever be found.

In time, the mountain will return to normal again.  The nature will heal itself.  And much of this will become memory.  What will always stay with me is the incredible standoff that occurred along Rimforest and the true battle; not man against nature, but man against arsonist.

Finally, I want to say how much your letters meant to me during the past several weeks.  They honestly kept our spirits going and for that, please please accept my sincere thank you and appreciation for such heartwarming thoughts.

Now, let's get back to the news...