*Nov 1, 2012 Update from Efinger Sporting Goods in Bound Brook, NJ: We have set up charging stations for your rechargeable devices here at the store. Please remember to bring your charging cord with you, and feel free to stop in and top off your batteries on the cell phone, ipod, rechargeable flashlights and shavers, etc. We are currently open from 9:30AM until 6:30PM today, to abide by the local curfew. We plan on being here from 9:30AM until 9PM Friday, unless the curfew is still in effect. Normal hours for Saturday (9AM-5:30PM), and Sunday (10AM-5PM).
Sandy’s path of destruction was felt from Massachusetts to North Carolina, but the Jersey Shore took the brunt of the storm. Flooding and strong winds ripped apart beaches, streets and dunes. Some areas breached completely as the ocean broke through to the bay, taking everything in its path.
The focus this week is on recovery, not fishing. Beach access is out of the question in many parts of the state, as roads are being cleared and power is being restored. It was difficult to get an update on many of the shops as most are without power, and some are still in an areas closed off to people. It’s a sad state of affairs in New Jersey. Chris Shoplock at Harrys Army Navy, which was open for business, said the devastation was unthinkable. Boats litter the ground, some are gone entirely.
Grumpy’s Tackle updated via their Facebook page that “Everyone at the shop is good. Was able to get across the bay by boat yesterday to check the shop. The shop had no damage. The water looks to of come up about 3 feet but didn’t get in the shop because the shop is about 4 or so feet above ground. Very close so we got very lucky! Hope to see you guys soon. May be a while……”
Fisherman’s Headquarters in Ship Bottom reported on their Facebook page that the shop was still standing but “the entire island is in shambles. Absolutely devastating. Boats wedged every where, through houses and on top of docks. Many breaches, sand everywhere, all of the beach replenishment sands are gone. Sorry can not report on specific locations. Houses w/o windows, some w/o doors, some off their foundation. Heart breaking loss to locals & tourist. This will be a very long recovery.”
Our thoughts here at OTW are with everyone recovering from the effects of Hurricane Sandy.
Jimmy, Might keep a list running with status of each of the shops from who's open to who is not… with prospects of recovery.