I've just gotten connectivity back, Roy. Thanks so much for asking. I'll write a bit about it later today, though not narratively or comprehensively.

I'm fine and my house suffered no damage. I'm among the very fortunate. There is still no power, water, cell or internet service in Asheville and relatively little in the whole county (for reference, the city of Asheville has 94K residents, the county about 243K). I've received notice that the power will be restored Friday Oct. 4 by midnight. Cell and internet seems to be coming back online sporadically.

After three days I came to a family house about 30 minutes from my home, where the community amazingly did not lose power or water. I just got cell and wi-fi connectivity last night, thus the slow response. My university has canceled classes until October 28, and I'm likely to stay here with regular trips back to my city.

The primary issue is water. Our water system was overwhelmed and essentially destroyed, and will have to be rebuilt. They're estimating 4-6 weeks for that. That's why the university is postponed for so long; public schools will probably be out until mid-November. There are water distribution sites around Asheville, but none very near my house, and they provide 2 gallons of potable water a day. Washing one's self, dishes, clothes, will be difficult or impossible for weeks.

As bad as it is in Asheville, other small towns in the area are gone. The loss of life is mounting well into the hundreds. I really can't imagine what it will take to recover.

But again, I'm safe and well and ready to start helping my friends who aren't.

Thanks so much for asking, my friend. I appreciate you reaching out. It means a lot.