After Hurricane Ida rendered many local businesses closed in September, employees have worked around the clock to run maintenance, and to repair the damage done by the storm.
Located in the Souderton Borough, Jesse’s Barbecue was ravaged by the hurricane. The business has since reopened its doors and smokers to the public despite huge damages.
Owner Jesse Sigmans experienced difficulties with reopening.
He said he had never experienced anything like it before.
“It overtakes you, you didn’t even know where to start,” Sigmans said.
According to Sigmans, “It was just too much at one time. [It was] “literally a flash flood.”
Sigmans said that water was up to their mid thighs and it was rising with every passing minute.
According to Sigmans, the hurricane completely took them by surprise. Yet, the community stepped in and showed their support and appreciation.
Sigmans said he was shocked at the compassion of the community since the restaurant’s humble beginnings, and was touched by the continued support in a time of hardship.
“Souderton Borough has been phenomenal with us,” Sigmans said. “I couldn’t imagine being based anywhere else.”
Sigmans said that his staff deserves some much needed appreciation. “My staff is phenomenal.
A special thanks to them,” Sigmans said. Many staff members were there at the building during the flood, and many assisted in the recovery effort.