BAR UPDATE

It's been about 2 1/2 days since we felt the brunt of Hurricane Sandy and the bar and the surrounding neighborhood from East 39th Street and below to at least the Lower East Side is still without power.  As a result, none of the bar/restaurants, shops, supermarkets have been able to open.  Residents have had to make do with what they have in complete darkness at night, while scurrying uptown above 40th Street for power, food, water, human interaction, etc.  It's been a surreal experience. (I'm at a deli on Madison Avenue in the 50's, where thankfully they have plenty of outlets for both my phone and laptop.. and it's not crowded!).

Nighttime in Murray Hill has been especially eerie as it is so dark, that aside from the occasional flashing lights of a police car or flares being shot of by traffic wardens, it's literally like a scene from Escape from New York. 

It's so quiet that when you actually hear someone or something, the sound amplifies to the point where it actually scares you.  So you find yourself staring off at the ceiling, listening for sounds that you hear or you think you hear.  Definitely makes for some sleepless nights.

As annoying and uncomfortable as all of this may be, it's nothing compared to the unspeakable tragedy that took place in the Rockaways and Breezy Point.  The mere thought of all of the families who suffered tragic losses due to the Hurricane is simply mind-boggling.  Numerous friends of mine personally suffered devastating losses, including Matt Long, and his parents, who among countless others, saw their homes burned to the ground due to the hurricane.  My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who suffered losses that night and please know that there are a multitude of people who are praying for you and are putting forth efforts to help you get back on your feet, and you can count on Third and Long to be a part of those efforts.

In the meantime, we've been told that we SHOULD have power back by the weekend; Whether it happens or not remains to be seen.  If the power comes back, we'll be back.  The staff's chomping at the bit to get back to work and so am I.  Check our Facebook page for daily updates.

And finally, I thank everyone who took the time to check in on me during this trying week; Whether it be with a phone call, texts or emails, or a hot meal or the offer of a warm shower, your kindness means a lot.  Much appreciated.

That's it for now.  Again, check in on our Facebook page to see what our status is for re-opening.  Thanks for your support and thank God we all made it through this horrific storm.

Oh, and thanks to ISADORA's Cafe on East 52nd/Madison for their kindness, good warm food and plenty of outlets for iPhone & laptop charging!  Paying it forward!


Cheers!