There is probably only a short list of things more devastating than losing everything in a fire. That initial shock and fear from surviving a fire quickly fade into another awful reality - assessing what, if anything, you still have left.

In the case of Ryan Bubier and Kirsten Maki, the answer to that was not much.

This, of course, is where friends come in.

On May 30 the couple woke up to a lot of people's worst nightmare: the unseen smell of smoke. They quickly realized their apartment was on fire and grabbed what they could before escaping. (In this case it was their dog, Georgia, and their two tortoises, Kevin and Leah.)

And that was it. Their apartment and everything inside it was a total loss.

Now if you have any gauge on the Portland area, you probably know what happens next.

If you guessed fundraiser, you are correct.

What do people in Portland do when their friends are going through a bad time and in serious need? Invite some musicians you know, a few artists, throw a party and raise some cash.

Tonight over at Flask Lounge friends and family of Ryan and Kirsten are gathering to raise money to help the couple out.

So far folks have donated clothes, gift cards, and furniture, but of course cash can go a long way.

The band Dear Claudia will be playing tonight, and the event starts at 5 p.m.

(Thanks to reader Wil W. for sending this in!)

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