My prayers are still going out to those affected by Hurricane Sandy, and as more photos of the devastation are posted on the Internet, I am truly saddened that so many millions of people have had to experience such destruction. Words can't adequately express how my heart goes out to those struggling to rebuild their homes and towns.
As you all know, Seaside Heights, New Jersey was one of the areas hit hardest by the super storm. The Shore Store, the boardwalk, and a plethora of sketchy dance clubs have been the stage for everyone's favorite guidos and guidettes for several seasons on MTV's Jersey Shore. Now the boardwalk is destroyed and parts of the iconic vacation town are underwater. There are some photos of Seaside after Sandy below.
President Obama has declared both New Jersey and New York disaster areas, and Governor Christie of New Jersey has called the damage to his home state "unfathomable."
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Bill Akers, the mayor of Seaside Heights spoke with Anderson Cooper today on Anderson Cooper Live, and he shared that people are coming together to rebuild their town. Emergency response workers are going door-to-door to get residents who didn't evacuate, and Animal Control is working to rescue any pets that are stranded. Calling today "like Christmas," the mayor was pleased to report that the city received porta-potties and showers, as well as people working to get the power restored. However, he explains that due to bridge damage and flooding, the city is virtually cut off from the outside world.
Mayor Akers got emotional when asked about how he feels about the damage, admitting that he's trying to stay focused and make good decisions rather than dwelling on the destruction. It was heartbreaking to hear his voice, but at the same time amazing to hear how overwhelmed he was by the kindness and generosity of other states. He tells Anderson that it's sad that it takes something like this to see how wonderful human nature can be, citing it should be like this all of the time. "We're going to be okay, we're definitely going to be okay," he concludes. If only everyone could be this positive. The people of Seaside Heights are lucky to have such a great man leading their town.
I am happy to report that the shore house that has been home to Snooki, JWoww, Pauly D, Vinny, Mike, Deena, Ronnie, and Sam came through Sandy unscathed and duck phone intact. While I realize that is a tiny light in dark catastrophe, but it's good news nonetheless. The roommates are also reacting to the storm, with Snooki telling MTV, "Sandy destroyed Seaside — our second home. It's devastating to see our boardwalk and favorite spots ruined. My prayers go out to everyone affected by the storm."
Her cast mates also released statements, with Vinny echoing Snooki's sentiments, saying, "Over the last few years, it feels like Seaside Heights has become my second home. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who was affected by this disaster in Seaside and all across the Northeast. I'm here to support in any way I can."
Pauly adds, "My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy, especially our friends and family in Seaside Heights. A huge thank you to all the men and women who have been working around the clock to protect and help everyone, true heroes!"
Jenni issued a statement saying, "This is a devastating time for the East Coast and my prayers are with everyone. I am thinking about my second family at the Jersey Shore and know that we can rebuild and come back stronger."
A source reveals to Radar Online that MTV is hoping to get the gang together to film a special about Seaside, telling the site, "Even though clean-up hasn't begun yet in Seaside Heights because of the extensive damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, executives at MTV are discussing bringing the cast of the Jersey Shore back together to film a special. The honchos at the network think it would be a tremendous boost for Seaside Heights as the town begins to rebuild to have the kids be a part of it. Of course, this is all in the very early stages at this point and these are very informal talks that are underway. Interestingly, the producers think they won't have any problems getting Snooki, Deena and J-WOWW to agree, it's the boys they are concerned with getting, especially The Situation. However, it wouldn't be necessary to have the entire cast reunite if the project does go forward."
The insider continues, "For better or for worse the kids of the Jersey Shore put Seaside Heights on the international map and if they can help raise money and awareness because of the horrific storm, who can criticize that? This could be a win/win for the residents and business owners of Seaside and MTV."
Meanwhile, the cast continues to tweet their concern. Sammi wrote, "Anything to help the people affected by this storm including my own hometown etc. I will be helping the jersey shore get back together altogether. This is my home."
Adding the #HERO, Vinny tweeted, "Just saw our Police Chief Boyd of Seaside on the news risking his life to save people."
We here at RT continue to channel our thoughts and prayers to all of those affected by Sandy.
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[Photo Credit: MTV; Brian Thompson’s Twitter]
