Sadly, although I had long planned to visit that area, I never have. Condolences to those that have to go through the current mess, along with the loss of memories, which can be even worse.

I agree. I never made it out there. My wife really loved Jersey and we always talked about going to visit friends but never got around to it. And while I'm sure things will rebuild and get back to some sort of normalcy in the future it most likely wont be built right away and most likely wont be exactly the same. I mean, look at New Orleans - it's still a mess!

It's easy for me to remember anytime in my life (from toddler on up to this last summer) with some Seaside Heights activity in it. I used to launch the Firefox in Atlantic Highlands, run around Sandy Hook & charge down the coastline to Seaside Heights. I would sometimes anchor out in the ocean & swim to shore, walk a couple of blocks to my Aunts house for lunch. Come back to the boardwalk (look for the Firefox anchored in the ocean) run over to Jack & Bill's for a couple of cold beers, then swim back & run the coastline back home. Seaside Heights was the Jersey Shore to me. Always loved that place. I'll miss it.

I'm speaking to my brother on the cell phone right now & Glenn says "Hey Ed, I see 5 trucks with Alabama Power on the side servicing us" Thank You Alabama Power!

Both my brother-in-law and sister-in-law are now out of work due to the storm. Brother-in-law was the Chef at the famous Crabs Claw in Lavallette. They can't even get their last week's pay because everything is so screwed up with no power and all records at the restuarant . :(

One of the most memorable for me:

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...44208630-4.jpg

Another far reaching effect.

I know someone up here that works at a collection agency.

They do work for MasterCard and various car sales and leasing firms in that north east area.

They have been instructed to not call for collection in the effected states and cities until further notice.

A nice thought but just another effect on an industry that one wouldn't think of right away.

The sad times.

I was provided a tour by a local fireman who resides in the Shore Acres Community.

This image was the Shore Acres Club House . It is where the Families would meet and hold functions or a place for the kids just to go and play games. All is lost but their memories.

The Volunteer fireman has a dedicated service of 30 years. He was out doing water rescues in Seaside and had no idea his own people needed his help in the community. Picture of the group of 4 was a man and a lady trapped in their attic, fortunately 2 other neighbors were able to get to them to get them out. In another house around the corner an elderly man was not so lucky and drowned. :(

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...45262852-5.jpg

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...45263188-4.jpg

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...45262130-4.jpg

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...45267496-4.jpg

Taken care of. 16 acres west of here is where the boats will be dropped off. Literally. There will not be any blocking of any kind. They will just be unloaded off the hauler's trailer.

I spoke with a long time friend of mine yesterday.

http://sharkeyimages.zenfolio.com/im...45284938-4.jpg

The pictures speak a million words, my heart goes out to all involved.