So that accounts for all Long Islanders that I know of, except for Donn. And I hate to say it, but if he is on a canal in Amityville, it is very likely that he's got his hands full with a total mess. My brother (same location)had 5.5 feet of water in the house (ground floor/only floor - a ranch)and it is a total loss. He spent the week this week dragging out furniture over runined floors and prying drawers on dressers/nighttables/cabinets open with a crow bar because the wood structures had swelled and tightened, keeping the contents hostage. When he got to the the contents - everything absolutely ruined. Papers, pictures, a 20 year collection of video tapes of family events. Every piece of furniture, every appliance, most all clothing except for things on the highest closet shelves. He has insurance and FEMA may help, but anyone who has ever gone through an emergency that called for insurance knows that it just won't cover everything. For instance, his outdoor hot tub is neither a household "content" or "structure" (thousands to replace) and all the landscaping around the property too. He is VERY lucky that our Mom still lives in the too big for her family home. He's moved back in there with wife, dog and busniess (he works from home) they all get along well, which is good, becasue he is saying he will probably have to rebuild entirely and that will take some time.

I am worried about Alex.. The area is really damaged. I know there was a post at the Palm forum , but i know the area and it was hit hard. I will post if i hear anything more.. At least we know all is well. Im just concerned with the structual loss and the overall well being because of the severe drop in temperatures and they still dont have any power.. I did see a large convoy of trucks with huge generators heading up the eastern shore to NY and NJ from out military bases here. They have suffered so much loss. I flew over NJ shore today and into Newark.. It is realy bad... I think of just having issues from my car being flooded and thinking that i had it BAD.. All i have to do is think of them up north and see it with my own eyes and i realize i have nothing to worry about. If you all are reading this.. we are thinking of you and sending you our prayers.. Help is on its way, Staten Island... Laura

Faron - since your DW and DD don't want to stay at 4S, take a look at The Hudson Hotel. I think it may definitely peak the interest of your DW & DD. It is a very happening, chic place. A place where you are apt to run into a celebrity or two during your stay. The Hudson has been used for more than a few movies as well as an episode of the S&ATC HBO series and Gossip Girl. While they do not advertise, the hotel is always full. Only in the middle of the hot summer when everyone on the island of Manhattan has escaped to the Hamptons will you find an available room at the last minute. I think it may be just the place to celebrate a 21st birthday in style. Anyhoo, I am attaching a link. Check it out with your DW. It is a bit pricey, but I try to get there at least once a year. I have nothing to do with The Hudson, make no money by endorsing them, just an obsession to go back as often as I can do so. In fact, after looking at their website, I do think my own DD's 21st might be celebrated there. I think the entire vibe of The Hudson is perfect for celebrating a 21st birthday. The Hudson is situated directly across the street from the Time Warner Center, which houses the Shops at Columbus Circle, and a short walk from Central Park. You could walk down W. 58th and not even know that it is a hotel unless you've had the good fortune of a stay. However, behind the long neon light and arborvitae standing in urns, lies a gem! Can't wait to hear about your final plans for the celebration of your DD's 21st birthday. Here is a link that might be useful: The Hudson Hotel

Annie I think you'll have to agree that the areas effected by Sandy today cannot be compared to storms of 1938 or 1944? Nor can Sandy be compared to Irene, Floyd, Gloria, Donna, Carol etc. The infrastructure (transportation, electricity, gas) of today are MUCH larger and more complex than in 1938 or 44. The areas are more populated and more developed along the coast than 1938 or 44. Thankfully today building codes have improved and are better designed to allow structures to withstand higher wind thresholds. Fortunately technology has advanced as well, alerting us to storms sooner than in 1938 or 44 allowing those in harms way to evacuate when told, or for those who remain, to become better prepared for what may come. Yes, these areas experience snowstorms and blizzards and probably have (or should have) alternative heat sources - allowing them to stay warm if the electricity goes out for an extended period of time during a snowstorm. The sources helping the area today have done this before. Perhaps not for your particular area, but have on other occasions under much worse conditions than those of Sandy. I think people have to realize that it is going to take a long, long, long time to rebuild - and some may never. I think the important thought for those affected is to hold on. That help is out there and on the way - from all over the country. It just may not happen as quickly as they'd think or like, but its on the way. People need to pull together to stay strong and to stay safe.