One of our members (Vealmonkey) had a fire!, update MOVED BACK IN!!!

[blue27]

First of Pat (vealmonkey) is OK, just some minor burns to his hands. The bad is he did lose his cat and that was more important then what you will see next. Pat is upset but doing well. The fire started in the kitchen wiring and spread through the first floor. Unfortunately there was a lot of items stored in that area that are lost. The rest was in the basement has water damage and most of the stuff in his upstairs has some water damage and smoke damage. Bandio90 Whtcamaro and Mrsound and I went down to remove as much Trike/Bike stuff we could before the start the demo process. Of course the looters and scrapers were digging through the stuff and stealing stuff. I will attach some pictures of some things.http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/857EE94D-2D90-44BB-A42F-454C9A8B18BE_zpsjx2vknco.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/857EE94D-2D90-44BB-A42F-454C9A8B18BE_zpsjx2vknco.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/C0CFE752-6835-4161-85CC-0646F56EE72A_zpsmtmz8mwv.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/C0CFE752-6835-4161-85CC-0646F56EE72A_zpsmtmz8mwv.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/6FED4209-0037-485A-9D2E-02AFB4042B5F_zps9khrmquj.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/6FED4209-0037-485A-9D2E-02AFB4042B5F_zps9khrmquj.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/3DD5C925-E9FD-4174-BBC2-F39EF78D3756_zps8nhhz0j4.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/3DD5C925-E9FD-4174-BBC2-F39EF78D3756_zps8nhhz0j4.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/E0C8A35E-393C-4D13-BD93-B68BB5D3933D_zps3rvqvfgw.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/E0C8A35E-393C-4D13-BD93-B68BB5D3933D_zps3rvqvfgw.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/CF93311F-9EEA-4F03-9C3F-E1064F09534D_zpsd18awfar.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/CF93311F-9EEA-4F03-9C3F-E1064F09534D_zpsd18awfar.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/991AA0E2-D8DA-4CB8-8F33-935BC38D00CE_zpskdeugwwr.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/991AA0E2-D8DA-4CB8-8F33-935BC38D00CE_zpskdeugwwr.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/81BB22B2-89D4-4811-8634-129766078F8F_zpsqmy2vzqs.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/81BB22B2-89D4-4811-8634-129766078F8F_zpsqmy2vzqs.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/324311AB-D9D2-42A5-B5CD-F1888A1BB371_zpswnyptcpx.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/324311AB-D9D2-42A5-B5CD-F1888A1BB371_zpswnyptcpx.jpg.html)

it rained all day and it was a complete mess trying to get trucks down the riveway. Every box you picked up broke and every bucket on container that had parts in it was full of water and had to be dumped out and picked back up. I do not wish this on anyone.
Please do not bother Pat to much but I am sure he would appreciate some comments.

[oldtime3wheeler]

So sorry to.hear this! Glad he is alright!

[Dirtcrasher]

I've been thinking about Veal, we haven't talked in awhile but always catch up.

I for 1 : Offer any free services to PAT including but not limited to: Lathe, Mill, Mig, Tig, Press and any parts I have that I am just hoarding. Please3 join in guys, he really is a great person; He's how I met Bruce!!

So sorry Pat, I hope not too much was lost. If you need me to, I can drive down and give you a hand now or later, I am just glad your OK because that comes first!!

I just read the cat part, I was already having a sh!t day and words cannot describe how much some grown men love their kitties FARK, I am so sorry.

Looks like you lost a 350X motor, I have a crate motor I can send down (free) Pat, I love ya buddy. So so so so sorry about your kitty............

[blue27]

http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/37A7A1C0-36C4-4C83-B6F8-91540AF708BE_zpsip8eijah.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/37A7A1C0-36C4-4C83-B6F8-91540AF708BE_zpsip8eijah.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/A992C678-34CC-4552-8CA8-D7292B5AC1BA_zpsq8gb6yez.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/A992C678-34CC-4552-8CA8-D7292B5AC1BA_zpsq8gb6yez.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/E3A60728-0BE0-44DF-8C9C-300292726E76_zpsunlktsdr.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/E3A60728-0BE0-44DF-8C9C-300292726E76_zpsunlktsdr.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/C42CE770-611D-4F2F-8A8E-5E2E76B2F41D_zpsrbg2telx.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/C42CE770-611D-4F2F-8A8E-5E2E76B2F41D_zpsrbg2telx.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/401D20F3-8F14-4D0C-878E-A70984287E2E_zpsumbleemb.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/401D20F3-8F14-4D0C-878E-A70984287E2E_zpsumbleemb.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/2003A395-8C24-4F74-88F0-A5B5A9C6CE39_zpszyxwydqr.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/2003A395-8C24-4F74-88F0-A5B5A9C6CE39_zpszyxwydqr.jpg.html)

[ONEBAD350X]

oh man that sucks.. sorry man... good luck with everything

[blue27]

In one of the pics you will see half of a Tiger (Rotax) motor melted. The cases are magnieium(sp) and when they burn and you add water they burn hotter, the fire fighter asked what was in there because at one point the hit the box with other cases in it and it lit up higher and it scare them. Home Land Security had come in to make sure there wasnt bomb making going on.

[Dirtcrasher]

Bruce, was Pat at work?

[MRSOUND]

You really can't fathom the damage that was done until you witness it first hand. Talking to Pat there was a lot of rare items that did not survive. He was real trooper able to identify anything & everything we picked up to load. I'll reaffirm Bruce's comment of giving Pat a little space till he can sort through this tragic life event. Computer access I believe is limited to brief moments at work so a ton of PM's could go unanswered for quite awhile.

[blue27]

Pat was home and and woke up to the fire, he tried to put it out but it was to far along.

[fabiodriven]

I'm not working right now. I don't have a lot of money but I have time I could possibly donate if bodies are needed.

[Dirtcrasher]

Dam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Dirtcrasher]

Dam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

EDIT ^ I'm with ya John, def can make the time!!!!!

[atc007]

Thank you so much Bruce,Mike ,Bando90 and Whtcamaro. It is just a nasty mess I know. I know Pat didn't want it talked about. I'm glad it's out now. I meant every word in the pm I sent Pat. Anything at all. I know Pat just kinda wants some privacy at the moment,but like Bruce said. A nice post on here might lift his spirits. I personally think a collection is in order. Pat might disagree. Then he would just have the problem of,what to do with a little more money :) My Nephew narrowly escaped a fire that took everything he and his wife owned. Literally burnt the clothes off his back and the hair from his body. Life goes on,but it is sheer hell for a long time. Great post DC :)

[MIK6]

Man.. pat.. im sorry for your loss, loosing a pet and them atv parts just plain sucks!
im glad your ok!

[El Camexican]

Glad he woke up and that he didn't get burned bad.

[blue27]

Steve that was aXR500 motor for one of the Nicholsons, the head melted. I will get some pics later but there was a Hall front end with CR125 USD forks, and the forks exploded from the internal pressure. Its amazing the damage fire can do, and if it didnt burn(like clothing) it still has smoke and water damage and it may no be able to be saved. Pictures bhooks hot wheels cars and other collectables all damged by water, or just the high humidity from everything else being wet. I have a new look on this type of event, thats for sure.

[atc007]

Real eye opener isn't it Bruce? Until you're standing there IN it.And then you will find,,papers sometimes undisturbed,when the structure is still up like his. Thank God he got out.

[90guy]

Man that's heart breaking to see. Losing a pet. Then you throw the love that he has toward the ATV world and all those rare parts. I feel so bad just looking at it. The little I've talked to pat He is a great guy and is full of knowledge. Sorry to see this happen Pat.

[czac]

wow thats horrible... and looters? they should have been run over!! i cant imagine what he is feeling right now, especially losing his cat... hopefully things will get better real soon!

[tripledog]

As if the heartbreak of losing a pet and property isn't enough to deal with, throw in the looters that come in to "kick someone when they're down". That just makes me sick. My condolences for your loss, Vealmonkey.

[robertc]

Pat,
Call on me for anything you may need. I am sorry to hear what you have and will be going through. Words can't replace loved pets and rare parts, but friends and kind people can help you through this. Please let us!

[tanks350x]

Cats are family members, atc's are toys. So sorry for his loss...

[Ghostv2]

A life is irreplaceable, though these rare items may not seem replaceable, they are. The trikes, they come and go, the house where you built your life is now being town down and nearly everything gone. I couldn't imagine such thing happening to me. Best wishes to you and your family, it may not be much coming from a stranger but all of us feel the same way here at 3ww, we all care.

Maybe we could do some sort of fundraiser here.

[jeswinehart]

Yes, sorry to hear/see your loss Pat but SO VERY appreciative of you made it out.

john + Liway.

[whitetail hunter]

Pat, sorry to hear about your loss . I know pets are family and material things can be replaced. just glad your ok

[Howdy]

Pat sorry to hear of your loss. If I can assist you in any way let me know.
Howdy

[Dirtcrasher]

Steve that was aXR500 motor for one of the Nicholsons, the head melted. I will get some pics later but there was a Hall front end with CR125 USD forks, and the forks exploded from the internal pressure. Its amazing the damage fire can do, and if it didnt burn(like clothing) it still has smoke and water damage and it may no be able to be saved. Pictures bhooks hot wheels cars and other collectables all damged by water, or just the high humidity from everything else being wet. I have a new look on this type of event, thats for sure.

Well, I wasn't supposed to. but I called him - left a message. It went to voice mail which is entirely understandable and it was just me as a person wanting to talk to him. I am who I am and my kittys I would trade for the whole shop. I feel terrible for him.....

He will get through it but all I posted is a fact. Thanks Bruce for being there!!

Honestly, if I can travel down myself or with Fabiodriven, we would be glad to help. Had we known sooner, we would be on the way. Bruce got me out of the woods (never knew the connection) but I know Pat was a great friend.

PLEASE, stick together guys. If you can help, then do so. He didn't have to lose a close family member but in actuality, he did. He lost his best friend, his cat. Maybe some of you cannot absorb that but we love what we love...............

We can head right down tomorrow if it helps, PLEASE let me know bofore the house is torn down which is what I assume is going to happen.

[fabiodriven]

I'll put the camper right on, I mean it. Even if it's just to watch for looters, God help them.

[RDH/86200X]

So sorry to hear about you lose. I can't even begin to imagine what it must be like.

I can't help much from north dakota but if you need any stock 90/110 parts let me know and they are yours.

[Billy Golightly]

Holy hell this is terrible...Wow. So sorry for the loss of the pet, the parts, and the home. I know this has to be a serious kick in the gut.


You guys are awesome friends for being there and helping through this...things and acts like that is what always reinforces the notion to me that there are the best people in this community.

[fastatc70]

Sorry to hear about the fire. One of my biggest fears. Hope you get well soon. Good luck! Hope to see you on here soon.

[atc007]

Amazing Gestures John and Steve. And I know you are absolutely sincere. The guys on scene will have to speak as to how much manpower is actually needed. I know with the scumbag looters. Time was not on their side yesterday,and people were needed. Bruce,Mike,you guys headed back in today? I know of some other memebers headed down asap,if nothing else than to give him a hug. I have had some offers emailed to me of a collection for him. What do you guys think? I do NOT want to upset Pat. But he has to realize how much folks around this place care for him and WANT to help. Wish I could do more,but the guys that can realistically get there are the ones that will have to tell US what is needed. Please post up how WE that can't get there can help.

[Louis Mielke]

Headed out shortly to go help the guys. Kinda mad I didn't find out sooner being he's only 30 mins from me but gotta do whatever I can. We're practically brothers since my wife tried to kill poor veal with salt poisoning. He had come over and had dinner with us on one of the first meals my wife had cooked in our first home. Poor guy almost didn't make it out of that meal alive. Lol

[trizilla]

i dont even know what to say here guys..... i've talked to Pat and like Bruce said, he's pretty upset. the tragedy of loosing your home and belongings is bad enough but when you loose family too its like a knife to the heart..



Blue27,WhtCamaro,Bandito90, and MRSOUND, i really wanna thank all of you guys for heading down. you ALL are amazing! I slept better last night knowing that someone got down there to see him.

Within hrs of finding this out these guys assembled and went down there to lend a hand. thats the kind of people you meet on 3-wheelers.

[trizilla]

Amazing Gestures John and Steve. And I know you are absolutely sincere. The guys on scene will have to speak as to how much manpower is actually needed. I know with the scumbag looters. Time was not on their side yesterday,and people were needed. Bruce,Mike,you guys headed back in today? I know of some other memebers headed down asap,if nothing else than to give him a hug. I have had some offers emailed to me of a collection for him. What do you guys think? I do NOT want to upset Pat. But he has to realize how much folks around this place care for him and WANT to help. Wish I could do more,but the guys that can realistically get there are the ones that will have to tell US what is needed. Please post up how WE that can't get there can help.


at this point i would say no to the collection. he's pretty overwhelmed with what he has to deal with and has specifically stated that he does not want anything sent to him and does not want a collection started.


just keep him in your thoughts and you be helping. give him some time and he will come around.:)

[atc007]

No problem at all, and I sort of thought that. trouble is, some money has came in without me soliciting it. Everything will work out. A huge thank you to Louis and the entire team today! Take leather gloves guys. And your shower tonight will feel better than ever. Someone give Pat a hug from us all. I'll be quiet now. Stay safe guys.

[atctim]

Pat, I'm so sorry to heat of your losses. My heart goes out to you. If there is anything any of us can do, please don't hesitate to ask. We are all here for you brother. Prayers go out.

[Mickey Dunlap]

*********************

[Joseph Farrow]

Pat so sorry to hear about your loss. I cant imagine what your going thru. I know I'm miles away but if there is anything I can do to help, Please let me know.
Sincerely,
Joseph

[Keith Salyer]

I hate to here about this kind of news. Glad to here Pat wasn't hurt. You trikers are a great bunch of people.

[MRSOUND]

This is what NOS plastics look like after a fire. They were on the second floor water and smoke damage. I believe they will clean up but the 350X set has some warping in the front from the heat.
184215184216184217
The other set is YTM NOS with a NOS seat.
184218184219
Inside my trailer. Unfortunately we had to stack as much stuff in as we could. Between scavengers taking anything left outside and the restoration folks starting on Monday inside there was no time to Christmas wrap anything. Doesn't look pretty but very little shifted/moved on the 1 1/2 hr ride home.
184220
90 motor in a old metal cooler
184221

[beets442]

Sorry for your loss,could even imagine what your going thru. Glad to see the guys help out. I would like to help,is there a collection?

[joesouth]

Man that sucks. Sorry to here about the kitty.

[RapidRick]

Just ask Pat, let me know...

[wisconsinite]

Wow, what do you even say? Terribly sorry to see this happen to anyone. Verry sorry for all your losses.

[atc300r]

Sorry for your loss. It gets better as the days go by.Iv been through a fire myself Dec.25 1999 . Its very upsetting to say the least. I have put Pat and everyone in my prayers.God speed.

[tri again]

I'm stunned!
Can almost smell it from here.
Neighbors recently lost their house due to
a recalled 'cadet heater' in the bathroom.

Renters insurance is under 10 bucks a month, homeowners is cheap too but their job is to take $ and KEEP it.
... can never replace pictures and collectables.
Hopefully the cat will just wander back out of the blue.

What is the best thing we could do as a team? Chip in on a storage unit
and send him on vacation ?

[Louis Mielke]

Like the true triker he is Pat has repeatedly said today that there are worse people off than him and he does not want any financial help, he was insured so the house and day to day items will be taken care of. He thanks everyone for the well wishes and the offers of help.


We got the rest of his trike/bike parts cleaned out today and they will be returned to his house once it's cleaned up and rebuilt. I got some pictures today and will post them up a bit later.

[HappyTrail]

You're in my prayers Vealmonkey. I Hope to see some good news come. One day at a time has gotten me through my trials and tribulations so far. I'm very local for any kind of support.

[Dirtcrasher]

Well, I know insurance can be awhile as well as cleanup; But, I can safely wire anything, replace studs and headers/rafters and sheet rock it all as well as mud to finish.

I know Fabio was sincere as well as myself so if someone can give us a game plan and if we can help, please let us know.......

It would be a great trip knowing what the mission is.....

I can rebuild that whole house like cake! And, I have the time.

No pay necessary. Again, I am so sorry Pat. Losing rare stuff sucks but I bet you'd have traded your fuzzy friend for all of it. Which really hits me hard.

If you guys look close at my avatar, that is Alex my cat I buried awhile back and I buried Rocky today. He was under snow and ice for 3 weeks before I could fix the backhoe and bury him properly and today was 50 degrees finally. Pressure treated coffin with a nice towel and stainless steel screws with his favorite toy were included. Siliconed the whole thing shut!! Rocky was put to sleep about 3 weeks ago. I sometimes wonder if I did the right thing but he had something wrong with him. It was a very hard day and now this.........

Take care Pat.

DC

[hoosierlogger]

Pat, sorry to hear this. None of the stuff in the house would mean anything if YOU didn't make it out. Yeah you lost a pet, but YOU made it out. Once again, sorry to read this.

[whtcamaro]

Busy day today, headed back down to Pat's for additional clean up. Thanks to Blue27, Bandito90, Louis Mielke. Here are a few pictures.

[atc007]

There no words to say THANK YOU big enough for the clean up team. You guys rock. I tried very unsuccessfully to quietly get Pat's address and have pizzas and doughnuts and coffee delivered in there for you guys around 1 today.. But SOMEBODY was busy wrenching instead of watching his emails lol!! So,sorry I didn't succeed. You guys did real good :)

[Slingblade]

So sorry to hear this. And Veal just seems like such a great guy, makes it almost unfair. I'm just really glad he wasn't hurt, this could be a totally different type of thread.

Thoughts and Prayers from Alabama, Veal. And to the guys that helped, You are the kind of friends that people desire to have. Great job, fellas.

[bkm]

I'm truly sorry to hear and see this. I wish I was closer so I could lend a hand.

[blue27]

Yes it was another dirty day but we have all the trike parts out and on there way to storage. The pic with Louis was just the way we dealt with this...after digging through 6 inches of wet insulation on the floor we were finding parts all over, but it seem to be alot of axles, every time we found one it was a laugh, atleast to us (sorry Pat) almost a treasure hunt, but we are glad we found them before they were tossed. I will get more pics when we unload it all. Fire is an unforgiving b-tch1

Keep going Pat it will get better!!!

http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/B149C2A6-C606-460B-BC93-8F2F2AF378A4_zpsyoxgacxz.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/B149C2A6-C606-460B-BC93-8F2F2AF378A4_zpsyoxgacxz.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/2E5478D2-9B00-42BD-864B-A6A1FFE05579_zpspqfeqja4.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/2E5478D2-9B00-42BD-864B-A6A1FFE05579_zpspqfeqja4.jpg.html)
http://i389.photobucket.com/albums/oo339/blue2777/Pats%20Tiger/DA9431BE-903C-44BA-BB66-15E0DDEB4661_zpsksisjnyt.jpg (http://s389.photobucket.com/user/blue2777/media/Pats%20Tiger/DA9431BE-903C-44BA-BB66-15E0DDEB4661_zpsksisjnyt.jpg.html)

[El Camexican]

He is so lucky to have gotten out of there alive and to have you guys helping him. Has anyone figured out what started it?

[DohcBikes]

Sounds like it was some bad wiring in the kitchen, Fire totally sucks. The worst part of our fire was when i realized i didnt even have socks to wear the next day. Sounds weird, but that's when I started realizing everything was gone.
So very happy to hear that you made it out. Kitty is my thoughts:(

[TrickyDickII]

Sorry for you loss Pat. Glad you made it out! Looks like you have some good friends you can lean on right now. Hang in there!

[El Camexican]

Sounds like it was some bad wiring in the kitchen, Fire totally sucks. The worst part of our fire was when i realized i didnt even have socks to wear the next day. Sounds weird, but that's when I started realizing everything was gone.
So very happy to hear that you made it out. Kitty is my thoughts:(

Didn't even see that. Was looking at the photos in disbelief and skipped the words. Thanks.

[CRAZY70MAN]

Glad to hear Pat is ok and has some friends like you guys close to physically help him out. Met him at Elmira indoor ice race with Eric and the Tiger. What a great guy man........ sorry for your losses Pat. Times like these are what makes this community and its people more special than most. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers..

[UlsterATCFan]

Sorry to hear this - life has a way of kicking you in the bollocks when you least expect it - all the best from this side of the pond

[JasonB]

really sorry to hear all this, i cant imagine what thats got to be like!

[the great gazoo]

Holy hell, I am out of town & just found out this last night.
I'm shocked he didnt call me, I haven't been on here in over a week, this is terrible!
I've left messages on all 3 lines with no response. Wow.

[rdlsz24]

Wow sorry to hear. I'm always worried about this kind of thing happening

Rob

[blue27]

For all of those try to contact pat, his cell phone burnt up in the fire and he has lost most of the numbers, please PM your number and he can add it to his new phone, once he gets internet access back. Thanks

[coolpool]

Sorry for your loss Pat, even more so for the loss of your little buddy. Time is a great healer, but you'll always remember the time spent with the furry beast. I shudder just looking at the pics and start looking around at to what I have on hand. I'm a little worried now. My ATC stuff is junk compared to what you had but I'll offer what I have if you need anything 90 related, on my dime.

[ceaserthethird]

The Pictures are stunning to say the least, It's truly a eye opener. I'm greatful Pat survived. Very sorry my friend!
Thank you All the local's for helping out.

Positive vibes heading your way!

[Vealmonkey]

Let me thank everyone for the kind thoughts and kind words. Thanks for all the offers, but there are tons of people way worse off than me. And I can't say enough to Bruce, Timmy, Mike, WhtCamaro and Lou for their help over the weekend and for Eric and his wife Wendy and my other great buddy Jason Smay (Jsmay) for coming down Monday. I also apologize for being such a non help, sorry. I've had extremely limited computer time and lost everyones number in my phone in the fire, so trying to get alot of numbers again and I apologize for not being able to contact people. It's been pretty crazy to say the least. I was home and awake when the fire started not asleep. Faulty wiring in the stovetop fan and light and it shorted and fell into a laundry basket I had sitting on my stove top. Only took a few minutes for the house to be completely enveloped in black smoke. I Actually carried the burning laundry basket outside and went back in to put the main fire out with an extinguisher, but it was still hot and smoldering and reflashed. The cat paniced and hid and wouldn't come out so I had to leave her inside. She didn't get burned, but was overcome with smoke inhilation and had to be put down. My only real loss. Everything else was just stuff. Now what is left just has to be dealt with, but I could really care less about it.

[Vealmonkey]

I'm in new temp housing now. Just trying to get started at square one, but words can't describe it. I'm just one person (minus the cat) and can't imagine how it would even effect a family!!! I also need to thank Tim Weaver for letting the guys store things up in his shop. I do hope Tim gets a computer and joins the site cause I can't even begin to tell you all about Tim. Also, it saddens me to say that since Eric and Wendy came down Monday, that Eric probaboy won't be running the Tiger in Elmira this coming weekend on the Hockey Rink. It's hard for me to accept how my misfortune has impacted others. Can't help it. just how I think. Once again, Thanks to everyone. I'm ok for the most part, just it's crazier than you can imagine. I'll be one here sparingly from time to time till everything starts to get "normal" again.

[zeeker1]

I found it so painful to read this thread but am thankful you are okay. I too had a total garage fire and had to put down my twenty year old cat and both of those events are devastating. A BIG thank you to the fellas that helped in your time of need..........zeeker

[the great gazoo]

Alright, you must be at work online? I tried to call your cell, but your VM isn't set up yet.I couldn't make it today, one of our guys got fired yesterday & we're short staffed, I sent you a text, did you get it?
Looking forward to seeing your new digs, & I've got a 19-23"(?) TV with remote you can have if ya need? Lemme know today & I'll throw it in the van tonight & bring it by after work tomorrow.Ya HAVE to have TV if you dont have a computer, yes?
Also, we have a really cool 3/4 size black female at work that loves people & could use a home, she's a gem & I'd hate to see her still outside once the fleas come around. She'd need a vet visit, which I'd be happy to arrange/pay for, etc. I've got pics, but they're on my phone.

[trizilla]

I'm in new temp housing now. Just trying to get started at square one, but words can't describe it. I'm just one person (minus the cat) and can't imagine how it would even effect a family!!! I also need to thank Tim Weaver for letting the guys store things up in his shop. I do hope Tim gets a computer and joins the site cause I can't even begin to tell you all about Tim. Also, it saddens me to say that since Eric and Wendy came down Monday, that Eric probaboy won't be running the Tiger in Elmira this coming weekend on the Hockey Rink. It's hard for me to accept how my misfortune has impacted others. Can't help it. just how I think. Once again, Thanks to everyone. I'm ok for the most part, just it's crazier than you can imagine. I'll be one here sparingly from time to time till everything starts to get "normal" again.



glad to see your post's. sounds like you may be feeling a little better? keep your head up bud, one day at a time and befor e you know it this will all be over. get out, get yourself a new computer, and a new phone! and get a phone you can txt on! take care and i'll be talking to you soon.

[briano]

Sorry for your losses, it may not seem like if now but you will bounce back. It hits close to home for me, as my brother lost everything that he owned 4 years ago in a fire. A wild fire went through his location, he got home from work and thought he could smell smoke, five minutes later there was a DNR officer pounding on his door telling him to get out. He had enough time to grab his guns and that's it, he tried to get his boat but the smoke was so thick he had to leave. He got away with the clothes on his back, all but one gun, his dogs and his truck. Everything else was gone, two trucks with minimum insurance, atv's, snowmobiles, boat, all with no coverage. When we were finally allowed to go to the property, it was unreal, not a thing left, you would have never guessed there was a house and garage there. He rebuilt on the same lot and it all works out in the end.

I wish I was closer to come and help out, it's amazing to see people come together in a time of need. I know when my brother had nothing, there were so many people that donated things for him, his girlfriend and their daughter that was 10 days old at the time. He said the worse part is the next day when he had no clean clothes or a tooth brush.

Hang in there, things can only start to go better eventually. I hope it is sooner than later for you.

[mart]

Wow. Very sad to read this post,mate you are always one to comment on our stuff we build over here in Aus and I'm very very sorry to read this.i can't imagine what your going through its great to see the support everyone on here Is giving.
I know you had some pretty rare stuff especially a set of greenhumans laydown cases mate if they are damaged I will gladly do a set for you at no cost or any custom stuff along the lines of modded cases etc you had shoot me a msg an ill gladly help out.
Sport for the loss of your cat mate always sucks losing pets

[6speedthumper]

Good to hear from the man himself, and to see that he is getting along, for the most part. Animals are family, and it hurts to loose them, but it could have been much worse for your family member. I suppose if there was a silver lining that'd be it... Hard to put words to things of this nature... Stay strong Veal.

Pat

[atc007]

Glad to see you back Pat. You def seem to have the right mindset! Soon,this will all be a real bad memory. I know it doesn't seem that way,but it will. If there IS anything we can do, just let us know! Keep your head up :)

[408Fairmont]

Damn that sucks ass man. I knew I didnt want to look at this thread becuase it would be sad... Im real sorry to hear about your losses, and I hope things start getting better and back to normal for you.

[Ol Deuce]

Hi Pat.......Sorry about the fire....Keep a positive though! I had a 1.3m fire at my Hot Rod shop ,I moved forward and it was Ok later! a killer at the time........Randy

[yameeha225dx]

SO SORRY to see this....i'm truly sorry about the loss of your family pet.......the thing that matters MOST, is that you (thank god) escaped this with your LIFE .....I KNOW FIRST HAND how devastating a fire can be, i lost my one and only brother in a fire, ....it was the worst experience of my life........i know this is an extremely difficult time for you,but please TRY and remember,...."THINGS" can be replaced and rebuilt......."YOU" cannot........................alot of "THINGS" were lost in my brothers fire,......i dont MISS THEM,............i MISS HIM.........................EVERY SINGLE DAY.......................stay strong

[atc007]

So sorry to hear that yamee.. That sucks so bad. My 81 yo neighbor drug 4 siblings out of a fire when he was young,and another neighbor lost twins in a house fire. It is truly amazing what some people are forced to go through and others go through their entire life with nary a scratch,,,,Clueless to hardships.. I just wonder,nevermind me ... Stay strong and remember the good times. And forgive my ignorance,but we just had a fire class 2 weeks ago. I know there are firefighter heroes on here,but I myself had NO CLUE. In a house fire,,it is solid black. You can't see,literally the hand in front of your face. And they said it is actually the most peaceful way to go,,smoke inhalation. You simply pass out. Doesn't lessen the hurt I know. But I learned a LOT in that training. I think the main video is on youtube.

[jsmay]

Hey pat! I'm really glad eric called me and I was actually home to jump in the van and drive down. Like Eric said get a modern cell phone so you can text! It's easier to keep you up dated with ever evolving projects...I picked up another Atc...we need to talk!lol

[Vealmonkey]

I can't really begin to put all this into words. Numbing and Humbling can barely begin to describe how I feel. Another word is Thankful. Especially to all my friends and neighbors and to all the members on here for their kind thoughts and actions. Thank you all. Please forgive me for being the stubborn person that I am. There is such a mind blowing amount of stuff to deal with, and I'm not the most orgainized person on a good day, that it's really hard to deal with. I started back to work today, not sure how it's going to all turn out. Still have a ton of stuff to deal with. I really miss my cat.

[Orangecnty250r]

Sorry for your losses Pat! I had no idea this occurred until I was chatting with a collector this weekend (I haven't logged on in a while). Glad you made it out OK. I had a similar experience in Jan 2000. I lost a ton in a bad fire and was displaced for 8 months. Luckily, I made it out with my cat and we stood outside from 1am -3 am on a cold Jan night as we watched our home get torn up and doused with thousands of gallons of water. It really is a surreal experience that is hard to imagine unless you go thru it. Stay strong and it will all come back together! Bill

[fabiodriven]

I couldn't imagine losing my cat Pat. I'm so sorry for everything you lost and I would have been down there for you if I had been called upon.

[Dirtcrasher]

I couldn't imagine losing my cat Pat. I'm so sorry for everything you lost and I would have been down there for you if I had been called upon.
Same as me John. My "baby girl Dora" can be a sweatheart or a beyatch but I wouldn't want to be without her. I'm a messy loner and Pat may have been similar. I don't think I could function without "Ozzy". He is just so damn special.......

Offer to help you in any way shape or form still stands Pat; I love ya buddy and I'm glad your safe!!

[oscarmayer]

glad your ok veal. your in our prayers man. i don;t have tons of stuff, but what I have your welcome too.

[Dirtcrasher]

I can't really begin to put all this into words. Numbing and Humbling can barely begin to describe how I feel. Another word is Thankful. Especially to all my friends and neighbors and to all the members on here for their kind thoughts and actions. Thank you all. Please forgive me for being the stubborn person that I am. There is such a mind blowing amount of stuff to deal with, and I'm not the most orgainized person on a good day, that it's really hard to deal with. I started back to work today, not sure how it's going to all turn out. Still have a ton of stuff to deal with. I really miss my cat.

I am so sorry about your cat! I have one of those stickers that label the color/sex and age of a cat. However, I always figured that they would run away and hide or get out fast!; They'd be aok, but it doesn't work that way. It can be a horse, gerbil, rabbit or pig; But what's most important to all of us is the one animal that was special pet. And Pat, she sounds very important to you!! That hit alone has been the worse one to deal with.

Fabs and I can still drive down if you need some more arms. Were glad your OK but let some of us help out please!!

I do have an 86 350X white rear fender that I was gonna hold on to forever, but I can send it your way!! :beer:

[atc007]

You'll get through this Pat. I can't imagine what you and the others have been through. If there is anything I can do,please let me know!

[Mickey Dunlap]

*****************

[Louis Mielke]

Been a bit but I finally have few minutes to post some stuff.

here's a few pics from the carnage. There are some smiles in a couple picks from our day out there but I promise you, it's the results of some good friends cutting up and trying to make the best of a terribly tragic situation.

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/C099585E-7C5C-432A-9C72-9F23930F6BDB_zpsypnyaw8n.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/C099585E-7C5C-432A-9C72-9F23930F6BDB_zpsypnyaw8n.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/4EB791C8-61B9-49E1-9C25-E032FEA90BEA_zpshpufspba.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/4EB791C8-61B9-49E1-9C25-E032FEA90BEA_zpshpufspba.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/16387E9F-D4B8-4D26-BC0A-D8C780A7B344_zpsg1kxcpny.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/16387E9F-D4B8-4D26-BC0A-D8C780A7B344_zpsg1kxcpny.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/5C63D0E3-9FB3-44A9-A69F-DF25308F42E9_zpsunm863qq.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/5C63D0E3-9FB3-44A9-A69F-DF25308F42E9_zpsunm863qq.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/01B9576A-787D-4E52-9DF5-E0AFFA5C2EEE_zpspbhu8rcf.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/01B9576A-787D-4E52-9DF5-E0AFFA5C2EEE_zpspbhu8rcf.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/C4219A64-67CD-4903-ADBA-4E268CEDB37B_zps9fq5jxff.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/C4219A64-67CD-4903-ADBA-4E268CEDB37B_zps9fq5jxff.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/4533B811-E571-4717-8196-EA0638FFC072_zpsanega7nt.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/4533B811-E571-4717-8196-EA0638FFC072_zpsanega7nt.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/B5C67D16-E68E-4A33-A308-26FA868490A9_zpssny83lyz.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/B5C67D16-E68E-4A33-A308-26FA868490A9_zpssny83lyz.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/F657657E-407E-44F4-A571-361B346CB7D0_zpsvtf0wt2o.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/F657657E-407E-44F4-A571-361B346CB7D0_zpsvtf0wt2o.jpg.html)

words can't describe how sobering it is to help try to recover things from a fire. I'm very thankful Pat is safe.

[Louis Mielke]

Here's whats left of Pat's 350x Jason Hall inverted front end. It's currently in my possession. I'm planning on stripping it down, salvaging whatever can be saved and getting it rebuilt for Pat.

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/B3D67AC4-9D14-41CF-BF56-0CF2906397B8_zpseiqfrhhb.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/B3D67AC4-9D14-41CF-BF56-0CF2906397B8_zpseiqfrhhb.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/DFA1E370-9CD2-4BC2-BC0E-3F63E497B09D_zps6g43ier6.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/DFA1E370-9CD2-4BC2-BC0E-3F63E497B09D_zps6g43ier6.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/A9533364-9C4F-471B-92C4-4A70BC09D3DC_zpssjtdyiur.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/A9533364-9C4F-471B-92C4-4A70BC09D3DC_zpssjtdyiur.jpg.html)

I have a set of 89 CR500 forks I'm going to fit in these triples. I'm pretty sure they can be saved and I even think the front Xowner 10" rim may be salvagable. It's amazing, apparently the fire fighters said that when they hosed the forks down that's when they exploded. I'm hoping most of the parts are still salvageable. We'll find out.

[atc007]

Great post Louie. I have a set of CR 125 inverts down at Billy's. Pat is welcome to them if he or any of you guys that helped him can use them. I 'm begging you lol. One of you guys must be able to put them to use!

[taz]

sorry for your loss pat been along while sence I logged on glad your alright sorry for your lose

[Vealmonkey]

Just checking in to let everyone know that I'm doing better. The weather hasn't been too cooperative in this whole process either. LOL Once again, I just want to thank all those that helped and all those that sent their well wishes, it means alot. After being in the same house for almost 20 years, it's hard to believe all the things I took for granted, like aluminum foil and scotch tape! Sort of hard to believe when you're starting over from basically ground zero what all you have and don[t have. Now, please don't think that this is a call to have people send stuff, 'cause it's not, as people have been more generous and helpful and supportive than I ever could have imagined, but I never realized all the little day to day things that I never really gave a thought about. Scissors. Plastic clips to hold a potato chip bag closed. A magnifying glass! LOL Silly things like that. But I do have some great news. I got a cat!!! A gift from my neighbors. Her name is Trouble. She was taken in as a kitten by my old neighbors. She had 2 litters of kittens and the neighbor had her fixed and vetted, but afterwards, she didn't get along with the other animals in the house where she was at. She was banished to the basement to avoid fights with the other cats. She's really cool. Housebroken. Affectionate. Not destructive. A real big addition to the new place. I really needed another cat as I've been really bummed out about putting my other cat down. Now, I've just got alot to do to try and get things back to square one.

[jsmay]

Hey pat! That's great news buddy. The glass is half full! Got the spacers made for the tiger... Now I can watch it beat me this weekend lol.

[trizilla]

Great news Pat!! glad to hear things are looking up buddy!

[atc007]

SO great to hear all of this Pat!! You hit the nail on the head. It is amazing what you will find you need,and at the weirdest times. Thanx for the update! It will all work out :)

[atc300r]

Glad to hear you got another cat. Hope things keep getting better for you. Hoping to meet you someday. Iv met Jsmay (Jason)and Trizilla (Eric).Great guys.

[old-yellow]

So sorry to hear about the loss Pat, glad to hear things are looking up. Best wishes, Alex

[Dirtcrasher]

Just checking in to let everyone know that I'm doing better. The weather hasn't been too cooperative in this whole process either. LOL Once again, I just want to thank all those that helped and all those that sent their well wishes, it means alot. After being in the same house for almost 20 years, it's hard to believe all the things I took for granted, like aluminum foil and scotch tape! Sort of hard to believe when you're starting over from basically ground zero what all you have and don[t have. Now, please don't think that this is a call to have people send stuff, 'cause it's not, as people have been more generous and helpful and supportive than I ever could have imagined, but I never realized all the little day to day things that I never really gave a thought about. Scissors. Plastic clips to hold a potato chip bag closed. A magnifying glass! LOL Silly things like that. But I do have some great news. I got a cat!!! A gift from my neighbors. Her name is Trouble. She was taken in as a kitten by my old neighbors. She had 2 litters of kittens and the neighbor had her fixed and vetted, but afterwards, she didn't get along with the other animals in the house where she was at. She was banished to the basement to avoid fights with the other cats. She's really cool. Housebroken. Affectionate. Not destructive. A real big addition to the new place. I really needed another cat as I've been really bummed out about putting my other cat down. Now, I've just got alot to do to try and get things back to square one.


Nothing could make me happier than to read this post; So glad you got another cat!!!! They are fantastic friends!!

Steve

[Vealmonkey]

Well, things have been crazy. I don't have to tell anybody how messed up the weather has been. The latest, the house has been gutted. Just basically the outside walls are left and some interior studs. All the aluminum siding has been removed as well as the shingles underneath the siding. There has been termite damage found which must be fixed. I also met with the rebuilder and picked roof shingles, siding, windows, front door and discussed some small changes that will be made to the house. Stove, sink, fridge and such. Slight change to the front door location and the front room closet will be change to 2 closets and changes to my front room windows and carpeting and flooring for the kitchen and such. Alot of things will be different. Anyways, I think the rebuilder had to make drawings to be followed for the rebuild and materials ordered, so building has been sort of stalled for a week or 2 or 3. I just snowed down here again a little over a week, maybe 2 weels ago, so that hasn't helped. Can hardly wait till rebuild gets going again. Townhouses suck, let alone no FIOS in my neighborhood, so no cable. Only way to get cable is to sign a 2 year contract and I really hate comcast. I only get 3 channels on my digital antenna(NO Nascar). And if all that isn't fun enough, I've been having problems with my legs feet and ankles swelling up and I'm not getting around very well. Got lots of test done lately and now they have me on blood pressure medicine and water pills and I'm having a big battle with my job. It's all way more involved, but not enough space. So it just keeps getting better. Yay.

[old-yellow]

Sorry to hear pat, i hope things start to work out better for you. Alex

[atc007]

Keep your head up Pat. That which does not kill us only makes us stronger. I guess he's really tuning you up! Sorry things suck right now. But just think how nice that fresh new home will feel. Again. If there's anything you need.... Take care man..

[justin4]

I have not been on for awhile but I have a full powdercoating and sand blasting shop I can pollish anything you need done,so when you are ready let me know what you need done and I will do it. I will even pay for shipping if you need. I read all the things you guys do for each other and it's my turn to help. If other members have parts or bikes out here on the west coast they want you to have I am coming to newyork state in October and will bring to your door you need or want. Glad to read you have a new cat friend . Good luck and don't be shy ask if I can help I will. My number is (702)-767-6763 my name is Justin Hauer .

[Vealmonkey]

Thanks for all the kind thoughts and offers. Just alot of things to deal with and I'm not doing well with it. Slightly overwhelming. If I hadn't had all the help from friends and board members up to this point,don't know what I would have done. Hard to stay positive right now. I think I just really need to cut alot of things loose and really simplify alot. Just spread too thin and too many irons in the fire. I know alot of friends say it will get better and it may, but I'm having a really tough time seeing it in the future. I lost alot of things that I was going to use on different projects, like the trikes and my 57 chevy. I really think I just need to cut my losses. The parts that survived don't really need to come back to my house and just be cluttered up again. Let alone all the other things that I had collected, harley items, magazines and such. An incredible amount of stuff. Thousands of dollars without exaggeration. Even though insurance has put me up in a temporary house for now, everything in it jacked up. A bed I'm not comfortable in for one, plus the cable tv situation. It's unbelievable how messed up it all is. I guess I shouldn't complain, but I'm just finding things difficult to deal with realistically.

[justin4]

Like I said anything I can do call any time. And building sucks but when it's done you will be a very happy man. It just takes time just hang in there. I'll keep a good thought for you.

[ironchop]

Pat, I just now learned of this and Im sorry for your losse. It made me think about losing all my stuff and then it hit me the VOLUME of stuff I have and the stuff I knew you have and with all honesty, I can say that 'overwhelming' is probably an understatement when I think of that possibility.
I know that I would be a complete pile of pissed and easily agitated once the pain from losing my pet dyed down some. Your situation also has me prioritizing my own garage and I immediately fixed the busted outlet in the hallway from where the vacuum cord was short and got pulled out sideways.
I was wondering why I hadn't seen you post in awhile this yr.

Anyway, anything I can do for you consider it done. And Im using this as motivation to thin my own herd, move my own magnesium stuff and my ammunition to a safer location outside the house and garage, check my own electrical as best I can and count my blessings... hang in there and dont hesitate to ask if you need anything

[Vealmonkey]

Good news, they started working on the house again. There is alot to do, but a group of guys was working on the house which made me feel real good seeing it. No idea how long it will take, but really nice to see progress again. Didn't go inside an look cause I didn't want to get in their way, but they've already repaired some of the termite damage and replaced part of the front of the house and framed up for the 2 new windows in the living room. Also replaced part of the burnt out wall at the front door and moved the front door as well. Not sure what else they accomplished, but I'm kind of fired up seeing it get started. I can hardly wait to get out of this temp. townhouse. It's nice, but it ain't mine, you know? The neighborhood kids all came up to me and seemed excited that they are working on the house. Seems some of the neighbors are tired of all the peace and quiet. There's talk I should have a cook out when I get back. I think the kids are missing me buying candy and candles and stuff for their school fund drives. Progressing slowly. Keep your fingers crossed. Have to get a new camera so I can post pics. Best news in a while.

[jays375]

Good to hear about the progress.

[tripledog]

Thank God you're still on the yellow side of the daisies, Vealmonkey! You'll get through this. I have never met you, but your prior posts reflect your inner strength, with a hint of stubborn pride. This past (at least I hope it has passed...) winter sucked, and posed many VERY difficult challenges that I didn't think I could overcome. When I almost lost my house, I just wanted to lay down and not wake up. As it stands now, I have never been happier to be so old, bald, broke and ALIVE. Not trying to hijack your post, just trying offer encouragement. And I feel your pain on your temp home. As a child, I was never comfortable sleeping over at a friend's house, 'cause it was so hard to find a toothbrush that I liked. Chin up, things can only get better.

[Vealmonkey]

Things have been pretty crazy for alot of people. I'm kind of realizing that now. Even though others have luckily not been dealing with what I've had to deal with, that I know it's been no less exasperating for them. Thanks for the kind thoughts. Hopefully things are turning around for everybody.

[CRAZY70MAN]

Glad to hear the ball is rolling for ya. Brighter days ahead Pat.
My

[atc007]

Best post on here Pat. Thanx for the update!! Sounds like a cookout is in order!

[the great gazoo]

yeah, cookout sounds great! It was really eerie going inside the other day, the place seems so much bigger with even more "no walls"......

[Vealmonkey]

More progress. Seems all the major replacement bits have been replaced, wall and studwise anyway. Windows are in, but not yet installed. Roofing materials due in Monday. I believe wrap and insulation materials due in Monday or Tuesday as well. Porch wood replaced. New wooden handrails on porch started. Bathroom floor repaired and where ceiling in the garage fell in also repaired. Alot of work done in the last week or so. Hard to believe it's the same house almost. I'm getting a little excited and the neighbors are all digging it as well. Looks like neighborhood value will be going up. Have an appointment for the Termite guy to see about getting a quote for a contract. May have to look into getting the driveway fixed. Not sure how the siding and the shingle and shutter color choices are going to turn out though??? I'm not very savvy when it comes to this stuff.

[wisconsinite]

Glad to hear things are progressing. Keep your spirits up!

[Vealmonkey]

Roof is all fixed and the felt and tiles are all up. House is all wrapped. Termite contract priced out and signed, ouch. House all scrubbed down by chemical sponges. Not sure if house is all termite hosed down internally or not. House will be spray encapsulated soon. I guess the house will soon be coverd by the outside foil backed insulation and the windows installed. House will also get the walls and floor drilled for termite and yard termite bait stations installed- the total termite scorched earth policy! LOL Not sure in what order all happens next.

[atc007]

man,,This is Exciting!!!!!!!!!!!! Won't be long now bud !

[tripledog]

Click your heels together and repeat "There is no place like home." several times. So happy that things are getting better for you! Good to know that you are weathering the storms of life with such courage. I wish you all the best!!!

[Vealmonkey]

i just want to take a minute and thenk all the mods and everyone for all the kind words and for putting up with me and letting me have a place to write about all this, good and bad. And i really want to thank everyone for helping me go through all this, I couldn't deal with it withour everybodys help. You're all great friends and have given great advice. Still alot left to do and a ways to go, but things are looking better and moving forward. Now I just have to learn this new camera some and get some picturs posted. Things are so different now and the house will be so different that I can't really imagne right now what the future will bring. Sort of trying to guide some things that I can but mainly hanging on for the ride. Crazy stuff.

[Daddio]

Good to hear that things are looking better for you. I've been through some Big changes in the last couple years myself. Life doesn't wait for you to catch up, so it's best to just hang on and go with it.

[Vealmonkey]

Sort of a repeat, but the roof is all repaired and finished. Windows are now in their proper window openings. Front door has been installed. I believe the main floor joist has been all repaired, but will check on that tomorrow. I guess the foam outside insulation gets installed next and the vinyl siding and the shutters. New gutters to be installed soon. Then interior work starts. Wiring, insulation and drywall then bathroom and kitchen and upstairs. Doesn't sound like much, but it will be alot. Looking forward to getting back home. Still a ways to go yet, but getting there. Took some pics of the house being repaired, but trying to get the pics resized and posted on here is being a pain.

[atc007]

Hang in there bud. The finish line is just around the next bend :). Then it's time for a bar b q .

[Vealmonkey]

Main floor joist is all repaired. Back doors are installed as well. House has been rewired. Still waiting for foam outside insulation and siding. Found out that 2 or 3 times work has stopped, builder was waiting on inspecter. Still trying to get pictures uploaded, doggone phoneline internet.

[El Camexican]

Just curious about how your insurance company is treating you. If you had say single pane windows the fire fighter broke out, is that what they are putting back in, or are they upgrading the components of the house to the current standards? I’m wondering because my parents recently had a flood claim in their basement and the insurance company bent over backwards to makes sure everything was as good or better than before, yet most of my dealing with insurance companies have be the opposite.

Anyway, I hope they are treating you well and that you are sleeping under your own roof soon.:beer

[Vealmonkey]

My insurance company is State Farm, and for the most part they have been really good to me. My windows when the house caught on fire were single pane aluminum, single pane wood and even a jalousie window upstairs. All windows have been replaced by double pane vinyl. New roof shingles and such and the hole the firefighters made repaired. All aluminum siding removed and replaced as well as the old felt and shingles and the house completely wrapped. After removing the siding and shingles, termite damage was found which had been repaired. House completely gutted and all fire damaged wood was replaced. House wiped down with "chemical sponges" as well as sprayed with an encapsulant. House totally rewired to code. All new drywall to yet be installed. New carpet and tile and a whole lot more yet to come. It's been a mind blowing ton of work.

[tripledog]

I have great homeowner's insurance.... it covers absolutely EVERYTHING, as long as it doesn't happen to MY house. Good to hear things are going better for you now! As an aside; if you have a celebratory barbecue, please send a cheeseburger to 13160. Even after shipping, via USPS, it will likely be fresher when it arrives than anything I would be able purchase at the local market. Chin up, you are headed in a good direction.

[Dirtcrasher]

My insurance company is State Farm, and for the most part they have been really good to me. My windows when the house caught on fire were single pane aluminum, single pane wood and even a jalousie window upstairs. All windows have been replaced by double pane vinyl. New roof shingles and such and the hole the firefighters made repaired. All aluminum siding removed and replaced as well as the old felt and shingles and the house completely wrapped. After removing the siding and shingles, termite damage was found which had been repaired. House completely gutted and all fire damaged wood was replaced. House wiped down with "chemical sponges" as well as sprayed with an encapsulant. House totally rewired to code. All new drywall to yet be installed. New carpet and tile and a whole lot more yet to come. It's been a mind blowing ton of work.

HI PAT!!!!

So glad things are moving along....

Make sure they insulate the hell outta that place! or use spray foam.

Pics?? :D

[atc007]

My insurance company is State Farm, and for the most part they have been really good to me. My windows when the house caught on fire were single pane aluminum, single pane wood and even a jalousie window upstairs. All windows have been replaced by double pane vinyl. New roof shingles and such and the hole the firefighters made repaired. All aluminum siding removed and replaced as well as the old felt and shingles and the house completely wrapped. After removing the siding and shingles, termite damage was found which had been repaired. House completely gutted and all fire damaged wood was replaced. House wiped down with "chemical sponges" as well as sprayed with an encapsulant. House totally rewired to code. All new drywall to yet be installed. New carpet and tile and a whole lot more yet to come. It's been a mind blowing ton of work.


IMO,it would have been FAR quicker to bull doze it,and build new. Or am I wrong? It just blows my mind all that extra work and time they spend,when you can be building straight and new from day one after a dozer.

[Vealmonkey]

I don''t have any knowledge of construction or reconstruction, so I have no idea. I just know this temporary town house is getting to be torture. LOL! There was a ton of stuff to fix with my house. I had been doing major mechanical repairs, but not big on cosmetics. So the insurance is replacing alot of things I had already redone, but they are fixing alot of things that I haven't done as well. It's just really mind blowing all that is getting done, and I'm really grateful and amazed. I'm still sad about losing the cat, though. Overall I believe the house will be better than when it was new. Still hard for me to picture how it will turn out though.

[Vealmonkey]

House is wired and passed inspection. House is insulated inside wise and inspection is tomorrow. Picked out appliance colors, paint colrs, carpet colors, tile colors, cabinet colors and builde is checking into bathroom details. Possibly moved in by mid to late july. Builder provided me with a tentative schedule. Wish I was back in my house tomorrow. If insulation passes inspecton, drywall will start going up. Still waiting for siding though. LOL

[justin4]

It is good to hear you are getting things under way. Good luck and let me know if I can do anything to help you out. By the way how bad was the 57 , is it fixable or a total loss? Keep your chin up you will be happy when it's done.

[Vealmonkey]

The 57 was ok, just moved it to a buddys' house so it would be out of the way for demo and rebuilding.

[coolpool]

This is all great news after all you've been through Pat. I suspect this place will be virtually air tight now which probably wasn't the case before. Make sure a fresh air intake is installed to compensate for your fuel fired appliances and dryer; not sure if that intake was in place originally. Keep trying to post some pics! This is exciting news! Pete

[Vealmonkey]

Met 2 buddys' for dinner tonight and at a a joint right down the street from my house. After dinner we stopped by the house cause my buddies ain't seen it in a while. Noticed about half the interior insulation is in. Should be finished by Monday, then insulation inspection. They should start stocking up drywall and start getting that put up as well. Then finishing, priming and painting and hopefully outsdide insulation and siding and porch vinyl as well. Once the siding is on then it will really look like a house again. It can't be done soon enough. I think my neighbors have been celebrating the release of the taliban fighters.

[Vealmonkey]

Insulaton all inspected and drywall was going up yesterday. Should start spackling and taping today or tomorrow. Was told I would be moving in around the middle of next month. Oh boy.

[blue27]

This is GREAT to hear!!!

[the great gazoo]

Very cool news, Pat! Let me know when I can start moving my bikes into your basement, hehe. Just kidding.

[Vealmonkey]

Went by the house today, of course. First coat of mud and tape up all over. I expect all that to be done next week and at the very least all in primer. I can't believe how nice it looks just in mud and tape. What a major change. I'm really looking forward to moving back in. Can't wait to see the house all in siding too.

[6speedthumper]

This is great to hear!! I will admit, I have not kept up with this, but am super happy for you!

[the great gazoo]

A little update for everyone- Pat and I had the same day off(Tuesday)so we got together and we went over to his house to see how it's looking.
Here's some photos.
Lots more room in the basement with that pillar removed, hopefully they will finish it with drywall. He is very excited to get it completed so he can move back in!
I want to say thanks a million to Bruce, Timmy, Mike and Lou for swooping in and getting all of what was left out of the house, I was out of town when the fire happened, otherwise I would have been there to help.

[Vealmonkey]

Brian, thanks for posting these pics. Darn low speed phone lines won't let me post my pics. Anyways, they started hanging siding today as well. Can hardly wait to move back in. This townhouse really sucks. And my AC just took a dump. Go figure. LOL

[sh68cobra]

It's nice that they are getting finished

[the great gazoo]

I was going to mention the townhouse, but I figured you'd chime in with your thoughts, hehe.

[Vealmonkey]

My A/C went up in the townhouse. My friend Darrin replaced the electric fan and the Capacitor as well. Replacement fan was five wire and original fan was 3 wire. Blew out the townhouse main circuit breaker at first. LOL Old A/C unit had a faded out wiring diargram, so had to get a readable wiring diagram. He stopped by on his lunch break and finished rewiring it. I tested it out when I got home from the Doctors. All was well. Always something. LOL Luckily last night was a cool night.

[the great gazoo]

Yup, always something. I'm glad to hear you're not miserable trying to sleep in the heat, there's nothing worse than trying to sleep when it's hot.

[Vealmonkey]

Looks like all the siding is up as well as the facia aluminum. Sure looks alot different now. They still have to put up the shutters. They also have put the vinyl on the front porch floor. Now they need to get up all the hand rails. They still have to prime and paint the walls and start putting in all the tile. Bathtub is place, but no toilet or sink or cabinets or appliances yet, but soon. Can't wait to get back home. I will probably have to get rid of the concrete front steps and get new more me-friendly wooden steps. My front steps are only 3 steps, but they are kind of tall/steep for me. Can hardly wait to get Fios high speed internet and cable back as well.

[Daddio]

It's good to hear that you're gonna be getting "home" again soon.

[Vealmonkey]

It's been too long. Hope you had a good time at trike fest.

[Daddio]

It's been too long. Hope you had a good time at trike fest.
Thanks! I did. The 74, that I've spent so much time restoring, had no spark when I got it there. I checked a few things and decided to ride and enjoy, and not wrench while I was there. After I made that decision, it was great. It sure looked good though. It was very muddy most of the time anyway so maybe it was for the best.

[blue27]

That looks great compared to what I saw last, you will be home soon.

[Louis Mielke]

Looks awesome Pat!

[Dirtcrasher]

GREAT!! So glad you'll be back in soon.

Looks GREAT!!

I love ya buddy, DC.

[the great gazoo]

I'll swing by tomorrow after work & take some pics for yas.

[Vealmonkey]

Thanks Brian. Looks like they haven't done any more to the outside (shutters) but they may be priming the inside walls. I'm anxious to move back in. Need to get some furniture though. LOL

[the great gazoo]

Here's a little update on the house, the siding's up & looks fantastic! I tried to call Pat to get the key code so I could snap a few on the inside, but we missed each other. More shots coming this weekend.

[Vealmonkey]

Thanks again Brian, I owe you for sure. Can't wait to get back in and get decent internet and cable TV back.

[mymint87]

:postwhore:postwhore:postwhorecheck your email:banned::banned::banned:

[Vealmonkey]

Email checked LOL! Walls on the inside are primed. Tile all installed and grouted. Kitchen cabinets were going in when I stopped by today. Some spackling touchups over the primer. Getting closer, but still some more to be done. Very soon.

[Dirtcrasher]

So glad to hear Pat!! Sounds like you won't have to clean the inside for quite awhile; Just fill it with parts again :D

You'll be back up and running soon. Anything I can help with, please ask!!

Take care,
DC

[Vealmonkey]

Tons of little stuff. Kitchen cabinets all in. Picked out faucets for kitchen and bathroom and cabinet hardware as well. Pedastal bathroom sink is in. Went with builder today and picked up fans and light fixtures and bathroom bits and pieces as well as a medicine cabinet. Painting walls this week and installing all my fixtures and stuff. Hopefully oven and stove will be in Friday after the painting. And a toilet in there somewhere as well. Painting to go on down in the basement and then carpet and radiators. Getting really close. I wish I was moving in tomorrow. LOL

[coolpool]

This is great news. Is the basement getting finished too? How has the insurance company been to date, good I hope. I've never experienced a claim on a vehicle or anything; just wondering how they were paying out for once.

[Vealmonkey]

I'm with state farm and they have been really great. It's been alot to experience though. I'm not the most organized person as you may well know. LOL I'm just really looking forward to getting back into my house. Everyone has been so kind and helpful and I can't thenk everyone enough, but I miss my house and my neighbors. My builder, PBI has treated me great too. My house is looking better than it ever did. I hope people never have to experience going through a fire and the aftermath. It's alot to deal with.

[Vealmonkey]

Radiators all in place. Kitchen sink all hooked up and running. More painting. Appliances not in yet. Pedalstal bathroom sink not in place yet. Window screens and carpet not in yet. Inside stairwell handrails not in yet. A/C not hooked up yet. Doors not all installed yet. Doorknobs not all installed yet. kitchen cabinet pulls and knobs not hooked up yet. Light fixtures and fans not hooked up yet. And I'm not in yet. LOL

[the great gazoo]

Good to hear more stuff getting done! I'll be down your way tomorrow and this time I'm going to bring my old camera so we can get some shots up!

[the great gazoo]

Thanks again Brian, I owe you for sure. Can't wait to get back in and get decent internet and cable TV back.

You OWE me? Christ, I owe you if anything, pal. see you tomorrow....

[the great gazoo]

Here's how the place looks now. Pat was supposed to move in Friday, but the guys here are draggingass. It looks to me like not much has been done since I saw it last.
The basement only has the front wall "finish" coated and the hand rails(outside only) are up. There's a lot more to do, I almost feel like going over there myself & installing all the interior strikers, knobs, switchplate covers, etc. The appliances still aren't there, nor the hand rails for both staircases.

[blue27]

wow that looks so nice!!!

[Vealmonkey]

I wish I had a hard move in date, but I don't. It would have been nice to move during my jobs' 2 week summer shutdown, but no such luck. It makes it hard to see all the little things not done yet. Alot of things look good and alot of things don't look so good. LOL Brian and I made a list of things we noticed today. I want to be back in my house very badlly. Some things I have left fall by the wayside. The house stuff has occupied so much of my mind, that it is hard to think of anything else. Now I'm just getting angry and critical.

[Louis Mielke]

Well here's some more before and after pics. Lol
http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/pats%20fire/B3D67AC4-9D14-41CF-BF56-0CF2906397B8_zpseiqfrhhb.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/pats%20fire/B3D67AC4-9D14-41CF-BF56-0CF2906397B8_zpseiqfrhhb.jpg.html)

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m254/louis_mielke/misc/29F9B476-92FD-4898-9108-F1AE15F89FAC_zpssmzg2vhj.jpg (http://s106.photobucket.com/user/louis_mielke/media/misc/29F9B476-92FD-4898-9108-F1AE15F89FAC_zpssmzg2vhj.jpg.html)

Forks are in the mail, need to round up a lonely quad front tire but this front end is almost up to snuff again.

[Vealmonkey]

Wow! Just simply amazing. I don't know what to say. Thank you just probably won't be enough.

[Louis Mielke]

Nothing some elbow grease and a blast cabinet can't handle.



Wow! Just simply amazing. I don't know what to say. Thank you just probably won't be enough.

[Vealmonkey]

Well, things are getting wrapped up. Looks like I'll be moving in next week. There are a couple things I want changed, so they need to get done. It's been a crazy ride. Thanks to everyone here for putting up with me. I know I have issues. LOL Probably more now than ever before, if you can believe that. LOL

[phantombiker]

hey bro...this all sucks that it happened but i love the new kitchen faucet...lmao...sucks u lost mr kitty...my condolences...but a bad ending could be a good new beginning. feel free to correct me if im wrong. i do come with a warning..."warning....brain may be disengaged while mouth is moving"...lmao...my folks had that made into a shirt for me when i was a kid. .....you dont suppose they were trying to say.....nah...they love me!!! lmmfao!!! progress looks great bro. mark

[Dirtcrasher]

Looks so great Pat!! The basement walls look nice and watertight! As soon as you get in I'll bet you'll build some nice shelves to keep your stuff on.

Wire brush and epoxy coat your outside foundation and stairs and you'll have a complete new house!! So glad the insurance company does not seem as if it sent over a bunch of SHMUCKS to save money on the restoration.

It's a clean fresh start to something that you didn't deserve; The sacrifice wasn't worth the parts, personal property and of course, your kitty.

In the end "It is what it is" so please utilize and enjoy it!!

[Vealmonkey]

Thanks for the kind words and good thoughts. Gazoo came over today and we were installing some wire shelving. I couldn't have accomplished what I did without Brians help. Thanks Brian. It's nice having a real good and handy friend that let me disrupt his day. Now my house just pretty much needs everything else. LOL I'm just going to start by moving in a little at a time. Brian said he would help me out again Tuesday. Final cleanup tomorrow.

[6speedthumper]

Really awesome to see the progression! From one Pat to another, enjoy and welcome home!

[Dirtcrasher]

Pat, do insurance companies give you an allowance for kitchen ware as well as clothing and other day to day items??

I hope they were good with you.....

EDIT - Thanks for helping Pat with his shelving Gazoo!!

[Vealmonkey]

There is supposed to be a check for interior items. I made a list and sent it in to the insurance company, but insurance says they never got the list. Not sure when that's all going to be settled. Just have to wait and see where it all goes when its' all said and done. Hasn't been bad so far, just a bit much for me to deal with it all. And y'all know I have issues. LOL There have been one or two issues, but nothing major, just slightly annoying. Can't wait till I get back into the house. Cable. Not a townhouse. Back around people I like. A microwave, which is a first. Walls. Nice carpet. I won't know how to behave. Hell, I don't know how to behave now. LOL Gazoo and my buddy Darrin have helped me out a ton. Thanks guys. And Thanks to everyone else that has helped and put up with me. A whole bunch of members to say the least.

[Dirtcrasher]

You can't put crate motors on the kitchen counter anymore Pat!! :D

[Vealmonkey]

Steve, that sort of takes the fun out of it. Officially got the house back today. A couple little thing left to finish. Servicemaster brought a bunch of things back today as well. Brian came over and helped me put up the wall mount for the bigscreen TV. A company bringing back some clothes for me thursday. Lots of boxes everywhere. Still no furniture yet except for 2 folding chairs. LOL Service master brought my tools back today as well, down in the garage. I guess the garage will be pretty crowded again soon. Need everything of course. All my kitchen stuff lost in the fire as well as stuff in the kitchen, like parts. Need bed and couch and a lazy boy recliner. Amazing how much stuff is in a kitchen. Lots of settling in plus have to get my little bit of stuff from the townhouse to the house. Brian is pretty handy and has been a real help. Thanks buddy.

[Vealmonkey]

Been slowly moving things into the house. Just had a washer and drier delivered today. Went and picked up a bed and night stand and got them to the house, with some help of course. Still need to get a couch and looking at lounge chairs as well. Hope to have it all in soon. The builder had to fix a couple things and I had to make a couple changes too. Still not real sure of the plan of attack with the front door and screen door. Making progress though.

[Ol Deuce]

You will get there!!!! Ol Deuce

[Vealmonkey]

Today, Blue27 (Bruce) and his wife Alyssa came down and led the way to go through boxes of returned tools and parts and returning them to my tool box I couldn't have done this near this fast without their guidance. Alot of tools, boxes and packing paper were gone through. It was a big step in regaining some lost space in the garage to make room for returning machinery and parts as well as making sure I didn't stop filling up the living room again. LOL Went and had a nice lunch at GandM. Found a box upstairs that had a couple parts as well and had to check other box descriptions to see if they had parts as well. Found some snowman plates, don't know where they came from and an old Reba Mcintire Casette tape of unknown origin as well. LOL Now I just really need to get a couch and get the rest of the townhouse stuff over to the new and improved house. I need to pick up some missing sockets as well. A major thanks to Bruce and Alyssa for spending their precious Sunday with me.

[blue27]

It was a good day hanging out with Pat, and we made some progress. Its amazing what you forget that you have,lol

[Dirtcrasher]

Hey guys, thanks very much for helping Pat out so much; He is well deserving of it!!

Good Man!!

NOW he has to make it to TF15 for Louis and Bruce (Blue27) and the others that helped :D

Blue27 makes great decals guys!! Near anything you want....

[blue27]

Well its been a long road for Pat, but he is offically living in his house again!!! Today we helped to move the rest of his things from the rental townhome and back into his house. As some know, at Trikefest there was some money raised for Pat. He refused any offers on the forum, so we did it at TF to keep it on the down low,lol. He can not refuse it after it is installed. The money went to purchase some new shelving, better lighting and a workbench. We had My wife and MRSOUNDs wife be as sneaky as woman can be and get him out of the house to buy paper towels holders and stuff while we assembled the items. Pat was surprised and VERY Thankfull to all the members here. (he is currently offline at home until the internet gets hooked back up "sometime in August"). There will be more shelving puchased as things progress, and the parts are cleaned and returned from storage.

[robertc]

Congratulations on getting your home back Pat. You have some great friends over there.

[atc007]

Great job to all involved. Glad you're back home Pat :)

[jeswinehart]

Very good news !!! AAA+ guys + gals ~ rock on !

[MattDragontamer]

Looks awesome there guys! Glad to see it all coming together.

...and do ya'll a favor and install a couple of these...

198767

...ceiling mounted fire extinguisher. :)

[Vealmonkey]

All of you are unbelieveable, Thank you so much. How absolutely humbled I was to say the least. A little teary eyed as well. I can't thank everyone enough. Your kindness and support and generosity is off the charts. There is so much to do to try and get everything back together and everyone has given me a helping hand in one way or another. It's really overwhelming. I'm here at work on the internet since my verizon isn't hooked up yet. I hope to be back on soon. Playing lots of solitaire. And a really special Thanks to the Pa crew for helping me getting things moved and reorganized. The ladies input has been greatfully appreciated as well. I'm not very fashion coordinated and as most of you have known, had 3 wheelers in my living room and parts everywhere, so I've been appreciating all the adult suggestions and advice. Let along how much more quickly all the help has been to getting me better organized. Like the song says, "What a long strange trip it's been". Please feel free to keep an eye on me and give me helpful hints and crap as well if I stray. It's appreciated, believe me. Still a ways to go, but progressing forward in ways that I never really imagined. Thanks again everyone.

[Louis Mielke]

Wish I could have made it to help this weekend Pat but it just wasnt in the cards. Glad everything is going well though! I need to stop in soon, I have some stuff for you!

[Mickey Dunlap]

Vealmonkey did your Tiger 500 survive? I didn't read all this so I thought I would ask.