WRAL meteorologist Mike Moss said if you're going to be outside over the next few days to take it a little easy, get plenty to drink and dress lightly.

It's going to be a hot week. In fact, they say it may hit the mid-90's, and most folks will be thankful they can get out of the heat and peacefully relax with the air conditioner on full speed.

According to the weather channel, parts of Iraq will see nighttime temperatures just about equaling our daytime highs. Not to mention the neverending threats of explosions, kidnappings and gunfire.

Our troops deployed overseas have to endure many more hardships than most can imagine but there's at least one local organization trying to offer the troops some of the comforts of home.

Military Missions In Action (MMIA), headed by Michael Dorman of Fuquay, is collecting items to send to the troops during the month of August.

Some of our local soldiers have made a special request to MMIA for school supplies which will be shared with the children in Iraq, Dorman said.

In addition to school supplies, MMIA will be accepting individual drink mixes, chap stick, pre-paid phone cards, new or used DVD's, Lance crackers and snacks, individual sizes of microwaveable popcorn, bug wipes, all black sunglasses and sun block.

Items may be dropped off at Patriot State Bank or at MMIA office at 411-B North Judd Parkway in Fuquay-Varina. For questions call MMIA at 919-552-1603.

According to their Web site, MMIA is a 501 c (3) non-profit organization serving the injured men and women of the Armed Forces. The primary vision of MMIA is to provide needed services to those veterans who have suffered serious injury resulting in their disability. The majority of MMIA’s services involve home modifications needed to allow independent living for the disabled veterans on their return from service.

MMIA also provides home maintenance services to rectify safety hazards for veterans whose financial and physical situation prohibits them from being able to complete the maintenance needs.