Washington, D.C. - "The fires in Southern California continue to burn out of control. This morning I requested that the White House make available any and all resources possible. I and my office have been speaking with Karl Rove and Andy Card and have been assured that this will be the case.

I am also working closely with Rep. Jerry Lewis to try to obtain $500 million in FEMA disaster assistance for the fire and hurricane victims.

Yesterday, Captain Paul S. Grossgold, commanding officer of the Naval base at Point Magu indicated that they would accommodate 8 C-130s and their crews. In addition, he said that the Air National Guard wing would also be available.

The Santa Ana's appear to be down. That's the good news. But as the winds drop, a major fire has changed directions and is now proceeding to a mountain vicinity and burning thousands of acres of bark beetle infested forest near Lake Arrowhead. Forty-four thousand homes are now in jeopardy and massive evacuation is taking place.

This is truly a tragic situation. I send my heartfelt thanks to all those fighting the fires decimating California and my deepest sorrow to the families of those 16 who have lost their lives and to the thousands who have lost their homes."

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