Summary:
You have likely been directed to this page either by mysef or a close friend to give out information on what all has been going on. This page is kinda simple, but it should work. First is this general summary, and then there is a section below that has information in reverse chronological order (newest near the top). I shall be updating it from time to time to help keep information out for the curious.
Basically I have had an apartment fire. It is a near total loss of all of my posessions. My one pet, a female cat, was killed in the fire. The blaze was accidental. No other persons were harmed though two other apartments were damage and made uninhabitable.
I do have insurance. It is expected to cover a great deal of the damages. Also, thanks to the wonderful outpouring of sympathy and friendship, I have places to teporarily stay.
And speaking of the outpourings of support... You have all been very very wonderful and very kind to me. From persons I know locally to persons I know internationally there has been a wonderful response to this. I thank you all.
Probably the most common request I receive from folks is do I need any help. I thank you all. Ther offers have far outweighed my need and are incredibly appreciated. All I can ask is that you all do me one very simple favor:
Please obtain a video camera for a bit and got through your own house or apartment. Go through every box, closet, and drawer and talk to the camera about the belonings and items you own. Their value and history. If you have a saftey deposit box, keep this tape in there. If not, merely keep it where you work (very unlikely that your house and place of work will burn at the same time).
A tape like that will GREATLY ease any insurance problems you have in the future by inventorying everything you own as well as providing proof that you did indeed own it. This is handy for all kinds of natural disasters and is reccomended by most insurance companies.
And as part and parsel, please make sure you have insurance and have an accurate amount. It will suprirse you just how much stuff you own and how quickly it will add up. For example, a young computer professional recently out of college or his or her first job might easily have $30K worth of belongings.
Well. I'm off my soapbox now. Again, thank you all.