The waves pounded the beach in Cape May today and heavy winds began whipping through the seaside community as business owners frantically struggled to board up their shops. Tish’s Fine Dining Restaurant owner Paul Negro has been in business for 20 years, and he wasn’t taking any chances after Tropical Storm Irene made landfall here last year.
“The best part about it is the timing,” said Negro. “In other words, last year it came a week before Labor Day which hurt business really big. This time is a little slower so it definitely better that it’s coming later in October.”
Next door, handyman Rob Griffith is on his fourth job of the day. He’s made stops throughout town, tying up awning, boarding windows and moving outdoor furniture.
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Business owner Bonnie Mullock isn’t worried about losing revenue. She’s focused on helping fellow merchants prepare for the storm. Mullock says she’s especially worried because this storm packs a powerful punch.
"It’s higher tide, we a full moon, we have a Nor'easter wrapped in a Hurricane, we have snow, we have everything all at once," said Mullock.
Many of the local business owners are staying in town in the hopes of keeping an eye on their stores. But the Garcia family is evacuating. They’re not sure if they’ll be able to get gas in the next few days, so they’re filling up now before seeking shelter at a family member’s home.
"We are worried yes but we took a lot of precautions," said Arenia Garcia. "My dad has a generator in case anything happens, we covered all the windows, hoping to be OK."
The Garcia family is doing all they can to leave Cape May while others are lured to the beach by the crashing waves like Greg Laing who’s eager to get into the water.
Right across the street from the beach is the historic hotel Congress Hall. The management there own about 12 other properties in Cape May and they’ve spent the day boarding up over 1,000 windows.
Shelters in Cape May County opened today for those seeking shelter from Sandy. Tomorrow, waves are expected to reach 15 to 20 feet. Those who are staying say they can only hope for the best and brace for the storm’s impact.
Reporting from Cape May, Lauren Wanko files this report.