That's right, as of January 1, 2013 all of Nike sponsored surfers will become sponsored by Hurley. Since Nike owns Hurley, this will just involve some new board decals and some new wetsuits. Now for the confusing part, Nike will be pouring more money into the Hurley brand in attempt to sponsor every surfer on the world tour (or at least 8 of them, and possibly 9 if John John Florence signs a deal). So Nike is basically using Hurley as a big front to pump more cash than ever into the sport. 

This also means that Nike will no longer sponsor any contests, which we reported earlier when they pulled out of the 2013 US Open, but now the Nike Lowers Pro will need a new sponsor as well. No confirmation if Hurley will step in to sponsor any contests yet.
 
Volcom is having 40% off almost everything on their online store, so if you need any gear now is the time to stock up.
 
If you need some new gear, Oneill is having a huge sale, 50% off everything. XT2's, Hyperfreaks, Hybrids, etc. 
 
It's been a tough few weeks as the recovery process improves each day. The worst in nature has brought out the best in neighbors and friends. Now NYSea's Beach Relief shirts have finally arrived and I'm going to wear this until it falls apart. 100% of the proceeds are going to help rebuild New York's beach communities. So even if you can't volunteer, you can help the recovery process by going to NYSea's page and getting a shirt. Unsound Surf is also having a big sale at their Oceanside store with almost everything 20-25% off. So lets support our local business and help get everyone back on their feet.
 
It has been a life changing experience for everyone. Many people I know lost everything, others only suffered some minor damage, but Sandy has changed everyone. One thing that hasn't changed is the indomitable spirit that strives in all of us. I volunteered this weekend and helped tear down damaged sheetrock walls in 2 houses. Ray was busy working in his apt on Laurelton Blvd. doing the same thing. Volunteers were willing to work long hours and doing whatever it takes to help. Long Beach residents were grateful for everything and all had the "we will come out of this even stronger" attitude. I encourage everyone to help in any way they can whether it's volunteering (check here for opportunities), donating to the Red Cross, or buying and supporting local businesses. The above hat is Unsound Surf's 'Strong Island' hat which just arrived in their Oceanside store which is slowly becoming the unofficial hat of the recovery process.

Volunteers at Humanity First came from all over the East Coast and some people I met were here from foreign countries who gave up their vacation time to help. I can't express how many self less acts I saw, all ages willing to do whatever it takes to help rebuild. Below is me (front row, second from left) and my volunteer team this weekend, followed by some of the heart breaking damage of the Lincoln Blvd. boardwalk. It will take time, but we're going to rebuild and come out of this even stronger.
 
We'll be taking a break from blogging for a few days. We've all seen the devastation of Hurricane Sandy first hand or in pics on facebook etc. I have been without power or water in the city since Monday and staying on couches, Ray has been posting some pics on our facebook page after checking on his apt in Long Beach. As soon as things calm down we will be helping repair and rebuild, and we encourage everyone to do so in whatever way they can. For those of you that have suffered tremendous losses, our thoughts and prayers are with you.