Predicting holiday spending is never easy. During last year's holiday...

Predicting holiday spending is never easy. During last year's holiday period, overall sales were strong, but retailers' profits were eroded because they had to do a lot of discounting to get shoppers to spend, particularly during the final weeks before Christmas. (Nov. 13, 2011) Credit: Steve Pfost

Sandy's destruction and aftermath have taken an emotional toll on Long Islanders, and they're also taking a financial toll.

Thousands of residents have lost their homes, and face the costs of finding temporary places to live as well as rebuilding. Others must repair storm damage or replace cars. 

Many have lost wages because their companies were destroyed or still don't have power.

Even if you just faced a week or more without power, you bore the costs of eating out and replacing the contents of your refrigerator and freezer.

How will Sandy affect your holiday spending? Vote and leave a comment. The poll results and a selection of the comments will appear in next Sunday's business section.

Saving oysters in Great South Bay ... America 250: Nathan Hale ... Healthcare coverage cut looming Credit: Newsday

Newsday investigation: Sex buyers go free ... ICE detainee released ... Saving oysters in Great South Bay ... America 250: Nathan Hale

Saving oysters in Great South Bay ... America 250: Nathan Hale ... Healthcare coverage cut looming Credit: Newsday

Newsday investigation: Sex buyers go free ... ICE detainee released ... Saving oysters in Great South Bay ... America 250: Nathan Hale

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