Frustration mounts downstate in wake of superstorm
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Frustration is mounting downstate after Monday's superstorm.
People are waiting hours in lines at gas stations in New York and New Jersey, only to reach pumps and find out they're completely dry from high demand. Along with frustrated drivers, people are also trying to refuel their generators.
Traffic is backing up for miles at bridges, with crowds of people having to wait for buses to take them into Manhattan.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg says the city is sending bottled water and ready to eat meals into the hardest hit neighborhoods through the weekend.
Meanwhile, Governor Andrew Cuomo says he wants to make sure residents have the power they paid for.
He says about half of the homes in New York that were blacked out now have power.
The governor added that while he understands that utility workers are working very hard, he is still holding them accountable for their performance.
"I represent the people of the state of New York. I represent the people who are right now without power. I represent the people who pay the bills
to utility companies. My position is very simple. I want accountability and I want performance. We are understand the situation but we expect
utilities to perform adequately and I will hold them accountable for their performance."
Cuomo says 200 line crews from Quebec will also be coming in to affected areas to help.
NYC Marathon Canceled
New York City's famous marathon, scheduled for this weekend, has been canceled.
The historic race has been a source of contention in the days since Sandy, with many saying now is not the time for the city to be focusing on the race.
Mayor Michael Bloomberg maintained his support for the race this week, saying on several occasions that the marathon could help lift the city's economy.
He has since canceled the race, saying, "it is clear that it has become the source of controversy and division."
Marathon officials say the race will not be rescheduled.
The 47,000 runners who registered for Sunday's marathon still make their presence felt. Race to Recover is encouraging runners to donate their hotel rooms to people displaced by Sandy, instead of canceling their reservations.
The website can switch hotel information, and can also be used by people to request a place to stay. Requests will be granted on a first come, first served basis.
M&T Bank says it will donate $250,000 to the American Red Cross to help Sandy victims. The company also said it will match any donations made to the organization by current employees, directors, and retirees.
And leaders at First Niagara Bank announced a $100,000 donation to the Red Cross. The bank says the funds will be distributed in New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.