That is a good story- I like that. Jeff- sorry to hear about your friend-I hope he gets his stuff back or gets money from insurance...
Yes, BUT, it was backed up to his garage behind his house and the van had an alarm on it. He got home after a gig after 2am and his wife was up at 6am for work. Plus, I'm not a big fan of the "well, that's what happens" argument. I know you don't mean it that way, but it is the EXACT same argument as "well, if she didn't wear that skirt, she wouldn't get raped." It's a lame argument because it places the victim in the position of blame. We all know that things get stolen and that there are thieves out there. We all should be cautious, but it doesn't excuse the theft. It would be no different than if he were on the road and his trailer got stolen, which happens far too often.
He's gone to a couple dozen pawn shops and a bunch of music stores handing out all the info and looking. No luck so far. It was very likely kids and he'll probably never get it back. His drums weren't super expensive, but the combined cost of them, his cymbals (which were valuable), his hardware and his snare drum, in particular, is a LOT - several thousand to replace all of it. My band has actually set up a page with a list of everything missing, HPD case numbers, etc. It also has an online contribution button through PayPal. He's in a tough spot and we're just trying to help out as much as you can. Please pass the info along to anyone you think could help. http://www.orangeisin.com/helpsteve.html
if the equipment doesn't come up in any pawn shops, look for any new up and coming drummers in the area.
We've had two cars stolen out of our driveway. One time, my wife had a lot of stuff in there that she used in her "business" (Beauty Control products). The insurance company would not cover that because it was for a "business". We were able to get around that with some of the stuff, because it was also personal belongings (e.g. a lamp she carried around, a tote, etc.). The thing to watch out for (which is probably too late now), is that when you are on the phone with the insurance company (especially the adjustor), they will record your conversation an not tell you until after you are done with your list of items. To cover everything we would have needed the rider like others have mentioned. With respect to the comment oneposter made saying your friend was lucky that his stuff hadn't been stolen before...we heard a lot of comments like that because my wife's car was a Firebird. Too many times we heard stuf like, if you drive a car like that you should expect it to get stolen. I hate thieves too. Good luck to your friend.
I just back from Europe where pickpockets are a huge problem. One day, I hope to create a wallet bomb (small). A big fat wallet sticking out of my back pocket. Probably throw some real cash in there. Then, I will walk with around with a backpack, cowboy hat, sunglasses, American flag t-shirt, and fanny pack under the eiffel tower. Then, when i notice the wallet is gone...remote control...BAM. One less pickpocket. (yes, i know this plan could go horribly wrong, which is why no one should ever actually attempt this)
Taking precautions is always a good idea. Oddly enough, this will be the philosophy I embrace if I catch someone breaking in or trying to steal my stuff... He left his bulletproof jacket in his car...and if he's been doing this for years, then he's damn lucky...
Just a quick update... He's still working on his insurance issue. We've decided that if his insurance comes through or if the contributions he receives exceed what he needs to replace his gear, the money will be donated to Music Rising. What has made me feel best about the whole situation is the support he's received from music fans and musicians. He's already received a number of generous contributions and at least four different musicians have offered to loan him drum kits until he can replace his. Pretty cool stuff. Also, for you musicians out there, I found out today that you can insure your music gear using what is referred to as "inland maritime insurance." Don't know much about it yet, but the policies are about $400-$500 per year and will cover all your gear no matter where it is located.
put a thread up in www.harmony-central.com i have seen other musicians who got their gears stolen post on the site. tons of musicians on that site, they will keep an eye for yall in the pawn shops. give it a try and post location in electric guitar forum, amp forum, effect forum.
Make it a stink bomb, that way you can find the guy and have him arrested. Plus you will make him smell really bad.
