An elderly couple are safe but homeless after a fire destroyed their house on the North Side Monday night.  Dozens of firefighters were called to East Rector Street around 9 o'clock for the blaze officials say started in the garage.  They haven't determined the cause, but say cans of paint and paint thinner were placed near the hot water heater.  They say the couple thought to be in their late 70s or early 80s were helped by a neighbor who rang their doorbell and told them they had to get out of the house.