Living at the Jersey Shore we are afforded the chance to see first hand the effects Hurricane Sandy has had on our economy. We recently took the kids to the beach for the day and I have to say I was very surprised by how empty the beach was for a weekend day. Some of it I am sure can be contributed to schools getting out later because of the storm. New Jersey is strong and resilient. No matter what may happen, we always buckle down and find a way to overcome.
As I enjoyed the day with my family I found myself impressed with just how beautiful the beach was. It also struck me how un-devastated the beach was at this point.(Due in part to the work that has already been done.) Sure there are area’s that workers are still diligently working to get back to where we were before. Not unlike anyone who has gone through some form of tragedy we are well on our way to being back to normal.
As a family we went to Island Beach State Park and then over to Seaside to walk the boardwalk and grab a bite to eat. The boardwalks are sporting new planking. Many of the businesses are open, and almost all of the eating establishments are open as well. Yes the amusement rides are still being repaired and replaced. Workers are testing them out and rebuilding a part of our Jersey Shore Heritage.
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One of the nicer aspects of the work being done is that if you want to get away, and spend a day at the beach with your kids. Now really is the time to do it. As a New Jerseyan I do realize the importance of the beach activities, that have been around since the late 1800’s when “going to the shore”,became popular. Right now, we as residents need to support these places with our patronage. The water park in Seaside is Open, the beaches are open. “Jersey Strong” is a part of who we are and how we have faced the massive destruction that was done to our beaches.
True some things cannot be replaced or renewed, and our Governor is correct in pushing us to rebuild better than before so that if a storm should hit us again we will come through and be better prepared to overcome it.
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When you think about where we were less than a year ago to where we are today. It is truly amazing the dedication and spirit of our fellow New Jerseyans.
