WILDFIRE NEWS OF THE DAY - 070408

Fires were in the news again today, with increased air attacks and some Congressional fireworks over heavy air-tanker availability. And the cost is mounting, approaching $400 million (with just $82 million budgeted by California this year - what were they thinking?!?), raising the specter of a tax increase to cover costs. To add insult to injury, insurance companies are cancelling policies at a record pace (290 of 300 homes in Tahoe will not be renewed by Allstate), further increasing the danger wildfires pose to homeowners. Through it all, firefighters are being credited with doing a great job, but there are just not enough resources to go around, as is pointed out in an article about angry residents in Big Sur:

California neglected to save for a fiery day

Wildfire chases July 4th visitors from Big Sur

Goleta fire doubles in size overnight

Martin Mars bomber aids firefighting progress

Insurers drop policies over wildfire worries

Colorado reps turn up heat on air tankers

Bigger aerial attack planned today against wildfire above Goleta

Big Sur residents angry with firefighting

Firefighters gain ground on fire near Yucaipa

REGION - No relief in sight for firefighters

Mountain View: Moffett Field Based National Guard Helicopters Involved In Fire Fighting