TOWN IS STIRRING/ BUT IT'S STILL DANGEROUS

The Roadrunner crew returned to the office for a few hours today as we published our issue of the paper, a day late. We're still not open yet and may not be for awhile. While we were returning we actually ran into some National Guardsmen (with guns!) who asked our business. That lets you know it's serious.

While there we noticed that some businesses are stirring. The Valley Center Market and Papa Bear's restaurant were open, so was Bob Wisecarver's Community Pharmacy and two gas stations. Keep in mind that the authorities are not letting residents back in yet, mainly because they don't want them underfoot as they move emergency vehicles to and fro.

Sad news from Linda Jauregui whose family lost their home last night as the fire came over the Guejito in a firestorm. They lost everything despite their efforts, including their pets.

Donna & Peter Jauregui, Matt & Valerie Jauregui, John & Crystal Culver and apparently five other couples lost theirs. I can't say whether they all lost them last night, but that's the total so far. You can read their whole post in our comments section.

Please note that if anyone needs help to get ahold of us at The Roadrunner so we can post your need on our "Aid and Comfort" column that will be running each week and on the website. This will be dialed in with local relief efforts.

The experience of the Jaureguis and these other families will perhaps quiet down some of the whiners who wonder why they can't get back home. There is still DANGER in Valley Center. You can always disregard the authorities when they tell you you have to evacuate, but once gone you should rely on their best judgment in letting you back in.

Here is an update from a gentleman named "Mitch B." I will occasionally include posts that I can't personally vouch for when they seem to gibe with known facts, so here it is:

" Anyhow as of 8:56 pm 10/24/07:
Came back into town trough Old Castle/W Lilac (Yes it is officially closed!) no access unless official business!! Town proper north and south nodes are quite and fine.

Officials are covering the town and things are very quiet (command post at Community/Civic center @ Lilac & Valley Ctr Rd), this is good! fire and sheriff are just keeping eye on things in town proper.

Came up to Mac Tan North of Fruitvale via Vesper... all south, west, and as I can see to north are good.... things are very quiet. no smoke or glow close to this location or to the south, west, or north, (NE faint glow....) smoke is minimal. wind changinging faint from the NE??...not great but any info on The line to held @ Hellhole or Yellowbrook (SIC) please advise but for now we look very good!"

I'm going to sign off for the evening unless I hear something significant, such as my home burning down.

Meantime. Good luck and be safe.