South Orange Stores See Shoppers Galore

While residents prepare for Hurricane Irene, South Orange's stores saw a busy day. Bread, bottled water, and batteries are in short supply by late Saturday afternoon, as locals stock up in advance of the storm.

"It reminds me of shortages during the war," said this editor's 96-year-old grandmother. She recalls food rationing and shortages in Europe during World War II.

However, for South Orange this is a temporary situation and fairly limited. Eden Gourmet and Rite Aid are well-stocked with other household staples, including personal supplies and diapers at Rite-Aid, and deli foods and crackers, cookies, and cereal at Eden Gourmet.

As of now, both plan to remain open Sunday, as will Fine Fare, Kings and Walgreens on Irvington Avenue. Note that the Walgreens is open 24 hours a day, and plans to remain so.