Mindy Olivia Block

I became a firefighter and a fire ecologist to write this story for young adults about protecting life, property, and the environment in the Long Island Pine Barrens. One of the most difficult sections to write in "Sunrise Fire" was the pain, loss, and trauma suffered by "Billy" whose father responded to the 9/11 attack on the Twin Towers in NYC. I had never experienced such trauma, until now.

In 2010 my life partner and soulmate died suddenly at age 56. I am now older than he was when he died. My spirituality confirms that he is with me, but my scientific rational mind continues to doubt his presence in my life. Today, I could easily rewrite Billy's story of trauma, but hesitate to revise this 2008 edition.

"Sunrise Fire" is closely based on the conflicts that continue to stir up animosity between firefighters and those with political power. "Sandy's mother" reflects this in the story -- that is, a trauma in itself, but now in comparison to the deathblow of loosing Ray is trivial - -Raymond P. Corwin, the First Executive Director of the Long Island Pine Barrens Commission.

- Mindy, and as always, ray, in love, spirit, and inspiration.