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SO interesting to note that there are only 21 kids in the Kindergarten class now. Guess what: First of all, when I was kid in Chatham there was no Kindergarten available.. Secondly, the Graduating Class of 1957 had 22 kids. We somehow made it through our 12 years in one building. Now the Community Center, or whatever it is called.
Graduate, Stockbridge School of Agriculture, Diploma, 1959. Graduate, Cornell School of Hotel Administration, BS, 1973. Retired Naval Officer.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 17:58:55

Actually, the 25% might be a bit high. Here's the breakdown for the two schools: CES 119 Chatham 11 Harwich 21 School Choice Total 151 HES 10 Chatham 412 Harwich 55 School Choice Total 477 129 out of 628 regional elementary students are from Chatham.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 14:54:35

Thanks for the breakdown Debbie. To me it highlights the effect of the lack of affordable housing. We need to find solutions it in 20 years there might not be anyone here to populate our committees & boards.
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 12:43:19

CES breakdown for Chatham students: K=21; 1=27; 2=12; 3=37; 4=22. (There are also 10 Chatham students attending HES.)
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 11:48:27

Currently there are 119 Chatham students enrolled in CES.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 11:39:11

Did I read this correctly that only 25% of the regional elementary school students are actually from Chatham? What does that equate to as an actual headcount?
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 03/25/2023 - 10:35:27

I ran into a woman today at the transfer station who told me she is a frequent user of the COA building and activities. She told me there are hardly ever any folks there that attend these programs . She said they do not need a new building and that we should be spending our money on wells for water. I think our priorities are screwed up when we tend to think a COA building is a necessity over water.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 21:49:15

Not to divert attention from the COA topic, but I did go to the former RCA site in South Chatham today to actually see why this site has been off the table for a new COA. My wife Pat pointed out that the site is probably in either a Resource Area or a Buffer Zone. so any new construction there would be problematic. Still, the view from such a facility , if ever built, would be very impressive .
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 17:25:48

I have gone through the CC schedule and my conclusion is simply that the COA needs more space than is available there. That's why I advocated for an addition behind the gym which would include a kitchen and a first floor multipurpose room. I regret that there doesn't seem to be any appetite to have after school and summer rec programs held on school property, as is done in other surrounding towns. I also regret that they didn't come back with a smaller building for 1610 Main St., considering that there is available space in the CC for some COA programs.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 11:21:55

Debbie - I believe one would need an honest accounting of the Community Center schedule, Monday through Friday, for starters, with times and rooms listed, along with what happens on weekends. Then compare that with the current COA building schedule. Using the Community Center seems to have worked for a while now. Why can't school programs as well as recreational summer programs be held at CES, freeing up more time and space for the COA, if it is needed. Kids do not stay in buildings during the summer months -- they are outside. Do you have any idea of how it could work, and have you looked at the CC schedule? I would hope you would agree that the poor feasibility study that was supposed to be done for the Community Center provided nothing. I believe the behind-the-scenes activity to provide the land donor with a tax-write-off for the land seems to be the priority of our Board in addition to spending millions of dollars of tax payer's money rather than utilize any common sense at this point.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 11:05:39

The Community Center elevator was not functioning recently. At least one elderly person with mobility issues had to struggle with the stairs in order to attend a meeting on the top floor. This is a friend of mine, and I felt very bad when I learned about it. I can't imagine what would happen in the case of a fire.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 10:47:22

Re the second floor of COS: I haven't been in the current building but for some reason, I thought it had a second floor only accessible by stairs?
However, the plans for the 1610 location had emergency exits on the front of building to ground level for that floor since it was going to be one story from street view but two in rear.

And for reference, it's only the gym in the community center that doesn't require either stairs or elevator.
How many times are seniors in the large meeting room on the second floor there and no problems?

Simple elevators like that don't have many issues so I don't see that as an issue.
J Hallgren (as user)
Clearwater, FL USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 10:33:40

A rope ladder? Nope! Just a flight of stairs for the mobility challenged elderly to deal with when the elevator isn't functioning.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 09:10:45

I imagine most of us have had bad experiences with town, state, county and federal officials; also businesses and hospitals. It is pointless to punish innocent senior citizens for past behavior of officials. The issue is not about to go away with a lot of kvetching. The longer it takes, and the more Town Meetings it involves will just add to costs. I wonder if that COA official voiced her opinion to the powers that be. I hope the second story is not only accessible via a rope ladder.
Cynthia Moore <cynthiamoore120@yahoo.com>
South Chatham, MA USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 08:16:46

Dear Judy
First, I am sincerely sorry to hear what happened to you and your brother when you probably could have needed some real help at that time. Second, Know that I admire your soul and your courage to stand up in what you believe. You and Elaine (who has not been in "John's place for a long time), I admire you both, even though I have caught some shots myself. If what you suggest has indeed occurred, it is not country hospitality, you certainly are due to an apology, but know in your heart, it will never come. Gov't does not work like this. At some time, wouldn' t it be good to have some laughs with someone in the flesh, in those living years. I guess a small miracle is needed
Alan
USA - Fri 03/24/2023 - 00:42:37

Unfortunately I would be reluctant to believe anything we would be told regarding the Community Center. It's obvious they don't want it.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 20:59:03

Judy, I welcome you to respond to my question. How would it work?
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 19:37:36

Unfortunately I would be reluctant to believe anything we would be told regarding the Community Center. It's obvious they don't want it.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 19:22:07

It would be helpful to have an explanation of how the space in the existing Community/Rec Center could fulfill the needs of the COA. I'd think there would need to be an addition.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 17:21:55

Cynthia - my brother and I went to the COA for help with one of our parents several years ago. We were both treated so rudely by the former director we couldn't believe she could be in her position. Since I had been so outspoken against them I figured I'd meet with the new Chairman of the Board of the COA. I had a great meeting with her last fall. I told her what happened with both my brother and me and she was mortified. At this meeting she told me that 1610 was a horrible location and having a second floor was dangerous for seniors in case of a fire or other emergency. Imagine my shock when she started praising the location and Mr Marsh's generous "donation"/tax write-off. This was a finely crafted, behind the scenes discussion between our Town Manager and two Select Board members. To me ,this was the height of deceit and a shameful political ploy with our leadership. Why should anyone trust the management of the COA and more importantly our Town Manager and those particular select board members. To hear from several people that one of our Select Board members is going door to door to promote this speaks volumes- as well as his friendship with one of the main supporters. As someone said earlier here or in the Chronicle - I just want to know what's in it for them. My opinion of this sleazy ploy by all of these folks will never change. They can stay where they are or use the Community Center.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 16:41:35

Whoa Cynthia! Be careful in your assumptions. I am a senior citizen. I have played bridge in the Chatham COA library room upstairs, I have borrowed a cane for my husband, I belong to a local SeniorCenter in So. California to continue my life-long passion for tap dancing, I am not in need of a fancy building with access problems and a day care center, but I know there are people who are dependent and wanting those services.. I would much rather help young families who cannot afford to live and work in our fancified town!
Emily <Dayonown@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 13:48:27

Well said Cynthia.
Crayton Nickerson, Jr <cnick2@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 13:44:29

Thank you all for sharing your heartwarming stories of your 97 year old mother being able to make it on her own;and the sage advice to start a Go Fund Me page when in need. And suggesting that the new Center is a social club.
Have any of you ever visited any senior center? Or been homeless?
There are many people interested in this and they have lived here all their lives. They volunteer their time and energies.
I was unaware that the naming of any service or building had to pass muster with the populace.
So just a reminder to anyone not paying attention. This is not about you. It is the future. 20% of the population "baby boomer". They are fast approaching the day when they can no longer care for themselves, or afford computer advice, tax advice. They may be suddenly alone and need the very important socializing offered by a center.
And yes it is expensive. Everything worthwhile is expensive. Still cheaper than society ignoring a problem.
Cynthia Moore <cynthiamoore120@yahoo.com>
South Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 13:04:23

Emily, your question mark threw me off. Sorry!
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 10:37:44

Ahh, thank you Dave Mott ( a voice of reason). Of course I know what CFAL initials stand for and I object to the change of name as much as I object to a new building. It smacks of old time circus tomfoolery.
Emily <Dayonown@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 10:24:26

Probably the day care suggestion is a good strategy to secure votes. But that's not what this vote is about.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 10:20:02

Appreciate your comment Debbie although my earlier comment was intended for those who have made the suggestion of Adult Day Care as a reason to approve what you refer to as the CFAL, which of course is an unnecessarily glamorized name for a Senior Center.
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 09:47:31

Once again - no need nor reason to spend 11 million on a social club for a select few folks when the majority of us will never use it. There is absolutely no reason in this world the Community Center will not suffice. That can be utilized along with a re-do of the current COA. We gave enough land now for affordable housing without using that as a dangling carrot. Emily and others have said the same exact comment -,never rely on a town to take care of your needs. You and you alone are responsible for yourself.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 09:31:56

Center For Active Living is the new name.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 09:04:46

The plan for a new CFAL (?) weighs heavily on my mind. It's a "boondoggle" being shoved down our throats by people who haven't lived in Chatham long enough to get their feet wet. The design is a chopped up puzzle of strange roof lines, odd rooms, weird parking and entrances and exits. For 10+ Million? An Adult Day Care ROOM on the second floor? Emergencies will happen there....what about egress ?
My mother lived alone in her own home until age 97. She NEVER needed or wanted help from her beloved Town. Day Care? Phooey! She dug her heels in and happily took care of herself. I will do the same, in the same house. Let's re-think this "gift" and VOTE NO once again.
Emily <Dayonown@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 08:59:47

If funds to run a day care program don't get approved by voters at a future town meeting, that space will be used for something else. The COA will have 3 program rooms, with 2 of them dividable, along with available program space in the Rec. Center. I maintain that the notion of a second floor day care in this "as built" space was put forward at the 11th hour for reasons which I won't speculate on. The previous plan was for day care space to be added at a later date.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 08:11:45

Debbie - that has been the plan all along. It's been discussed at all the meetings. If they get their Taj Mahal that is exactly what they will do and they have made that crystal clear. They can do whatever they want if they get their building.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/23/2023 - 07:50:29

Regarding the Article for the new CFAL, Adult Day Care is not mentioned in the motion and the room designation in the building design is simply labeled "Program". So we're not voting on inclusion of day care.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 23:29:57

My wife Pat, an RN(C) was a staff member of the Adult Day Care Center in Eastham. One might want to ask her what is involved with such care.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 17:53:33

Another good post Dave. It's nice to see people seeing the light of this ridiculousness.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 14:33:50

There seems to be a growing opinion that a Chatham Senior Facility should include adult day care. While well intentioned I suppose I ask pro-ADC advocates if they have considered the issue of the cost of adequate staffing and the insurance risks of providing such a luxury? Where will the required medical professional staffing come from (CCH finds adequate staffing to be a challenge) and what's the additional legal liability (plus associated costs) would be involved? I'm a senior and feel that I'm responsible for my own daycare - I would never consider asking the taxpayers to do that for me. If I were desperate, there's visiting nurse services or always a go fund me options. Let's think personal accountability before we look for fodder in an attempt to justify a political agenda.
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 12:34:54

I just read letters to the editor in the Chronicle and I will say Dave Mott and Jennifer Bucks letters were spot on! I say leave the C.O.A. where they are and if the 1610 property is so good, maybe we should put Affordable Housing there.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 09:47:27

There are two outstanding letters in today's Chronicle I hope folks will see. They both are about the lack of transparency in our leadership. After reading these letters I can honestly say I am ashamed of the way these people we elected are acting. In addition, at their Board Meeting last night, despite please from residents which they ignored, they granted a filming permit to Netflix. Interesting to see Attorney Riley representing the film folks. The residents of the area had some very compelling arguments against letting this film company disrupt their area. It fell on deaf ears by our Board. It's all about the money.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/22/2023 - 06:47:55

Good video of yesterdays fire.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHI5Ono-ZYQ
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/21/2023 - 20:04:37

I have wondered about what kind of object would be found at the old South Jog to inhibit the sheet piling effort. Many years ago, Captain Dave Ryder, and others, would have large concrete moorings poured at the edge of the pier. They threw stones and other dense things in to the pour. Then, moved/slid the cured form to the water. One can only guess that there is an errant mooring sitting at the bottom, inhibiting the sheet piling drill.
Certainly there are no rocks there.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Tue 03/21/2023 - 17:25:59

Judy, I certainly agree that the taxpayers should be periodically updated on progress of costly litigation, especially when it could have been avoided if someone with some knowledge of construction was overseeing the project. I suspect the new issues are occurring as a result of similar shortcomings.

As for conflicts of interest in local politics, individuals with integrity know they have to avoid the appearance of bias and impropriety - what you've described happening speaks volumes about our "leaders".
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/21/2023 - 09:37:15

Dave - it's my understanding the suit is still in progress. Now there are new problems there with Red's Best who buys the fish off boats. In addition there are problems with the new bulkhead that's being installed. The never-ending nightmare. One would think taxpayers would be told about these things in the weekly MainStay letter from our Town Manager. There's probably not enough room though due to her promoting Ms Davis's seafood wholesale business Chatham Harvesters.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Tue 03/21/2023 - 07:54:39

Does anyone know how the Fish Pier lawsuit is going? I remember an article indicating that contractor was claiming damages in excess of $2M.
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 03/20/2023 - 22:53:50

The lobster diver DID say that he is the only one diving for lobsters now, mostly due to the others being leery of great white sharks, and the others are aging. He does see the sharks, and tries to make himself as inconspicuous as possible.
He was encouraged by the audience at the Eastham COA to write a book about his experiences.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sun 03/19/2023 - 16:34:37

I have gone on record that I am not in favor of building an expensive new COA, neither supporting the 1610 location not the projected cost at a time when the inflation rate is over 6.5%. I don't understand why our town leaders continue to pimp an issue that has voted down more than once. Until someone can factually and concisely make a logical case, I'm a NO vote.
Dave Mott <Djmott@aol.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Sun 03/19/2023 - 14:40:29

Gosh! What an experience that was for him! Thank you for sharing the story. It is a good thing that he had his dry suit on while diving.I have had two surfer friends that have been attacked by Great White Sharks. Sue was surfing in Crescent City when a Great White took a bite out of her surfboard - she was okay. Her surf board hangs on the wall of her home. Scott, a very experience surfer was surfing at the north jetty of Humboldt Bay when a Great White took a bite of Scott's side. Scott had to punch the shark in the head to get it to release him. He quickly swam to shore where he told a friend to put all their weight on him to stop the bleeding and wait for emergency response. He survived and still surfs. His surfboard now is on the wall of The Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka.
Carol Ann Conners
Humboldt, CA USA - Sun 03/19/2023 - 11:01:50

The whale talk was excellent - this guy has had several near death experiences. He described in great detail what he was doing ( commercially diving for lobsters off Race Point) while in the midst of some small bait fish that the whale was intent on scooping up. That is how this guy got inside the whale, with his air tank and dry suit on. The whale essentially opened his mouth and thrashed back and forth to dislodge the guy. It was about 35 seconds that he was inside the whale. Probably seemed a lot longer. He was slightly injured.
One of his other close calls was a plane crash in the jungle of Costa Rica. He survived - others did not.
Reminded me of the close calls brother Captain Bob Ryder has had.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 03/18/2023 - 16:58:03

Richard, how was the talk at the Eastham COA by the fellow that got swallowed by the whale?
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Sat 03/18/2023 - 10:33:31

Interesting to note that the School on Depot Road was where the Circus came to town and erected A THREE RING CIRCUS with elephants, side shows, etc. Been there.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 19:53:14

Well said Judy.Do we have a maintenance dept that is supposed to take care of this and if so who do they answer to?
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 18:39:56

I would think taxpayers would be sick of the neglect of maintenance on town owned buildings. Look at the property on Old Harbor Road. The building is disgusting because pipes burst when no one could be bothered to shut the water off. Mold is everywhere. Why all of a sudden does the roof need to be replaced at the Elementary School? Look at the mess at the Fish Pier and the bulkhead. Why is everything not being maintained ? Look at the current COA building. They threw a coat of paint on it a few years ago after years of neglect so they could use that as their "poor me"' ad. . Is anyone else a tad upset about the lack of maintenance on our buildings? Town management alone is responsible for this mess and it continues to get worse. And you expect taxpayers to fork out 11 million for another building that will be minimally used and not maintained? I think not!
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 17:14:48

So if the building on Depot road needs a new million dollar roof, why don't we build up another story and make apartments out of it. The roof will still cost the same amount of money. I agree a survey would have been very helpful but then again, they want what they want. I don't think anybody who doesn't want the COA is forgetting about the potential empty daytime space at the rec center.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 15:58:51

So fit them there somehow. Then we have a 54,000sf building on Depot Rd. that was built in 1956 and it's soon to need a new $1,000,000 roof. And don't forget the potential empty daytime space in the Rec. Center. In my opinion, a survey back in the beginning would have been very helpful.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 12:19:06

*grade at the high school.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 11:52:26

Debbie, when my son was in 7th and 8th Great at the high school their classes were in trailers in the back of the school. So if we think outside the box they can all fit there.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 11:51:34

I have a thought. Isn't it up to the voters to decide where the C.O.A. should be? If so, then why are we allowing them to tell the voters where they will go. If they have outgrown (which they haven't) where they are now, then the voters should tell be the ones to tell them that they will go to the Community building, Elementary school or wherever or stay where they are. They have turned down everyplace that was put to them. I think we are allowing them to TELL the voters where they want to go and will not accept anywhere else. Remember, WE the voters will be paying for anything new. $ 11,000,000.and that is the cost as of now, is not money well spent. We need to repair our wells and housing for locals.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 09:16:15

There are currently about 145 students in 9 classes at CES. For 2025-2026, 9 classes are projected. They can't all fit on Crowell Rd..
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 08:48:02

Crayton - sorry about spelling your name incorrectly. I think your idea of using the Elementary School is excellent. The attendance keeps dropping according to the Chronicle and the kids should utilize the Crowell Road school. Amy has se very thought provoking comments as well. Instead of being in such a rush to build an 11+ million dollar mansion that will be used minimally I hope more folks come up with other ideas. Between the Community Center and the Elementary School - right now these two make more sense than a less than suitable lot in the middle of a busy roadway.
Judy P
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 03/16/2023 - 08:00:53

Judy, At least spell my name correctly also put your last name and email address so others know who you are I know you but you need to address the use of the community building when school's out not just after school but when they are on vacation and summer rec programs. The rec department have issues with it and not a good place because of summer traffic getting in and out of the parking lot. All other options have been explored and nothing seems to work. Maybe you should get on a committee and find a place, that hasn't been explored. We are running out of land to build anything. I feel they are not selfish. My suggestion would be close the Depot street school and move the students up to Crowell rd and put the COA there.
Crayton S. Nickerson,Jr <cnick2@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 19:33:50

Isn't the Brewster Senior Center on busy Route 6A, near the Route 137 intersection? I wonder how that works. Also, with no Community Centers, where do Eastham, Orleans, Brewster and Dennis run their after school and summer rec. programs?
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 19:30:45

Q. What do you do if you get swallowed by a whale?
A. Run around inside until you get all pooped out...
Harold <ezlivin@nashville.com>
Nashville, TN USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 18:15:26

Just so you know, tomorrow afternoon at the Eastham COA, there will be a talk from the guy who got ingested by a whale. I rarely, if ever, at age 83 , have visited this COA place. But, with this kind of program, and me having seeing whales alongside the CG36500, and from the shore of Race Point, I really want to hear what this guy has to say.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 17:34:54

Amy, you give very good points that should be considered.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 15:51:37

Creighton - I am a senior citizen. I like just about everybody til they give me reasons not to . I don't like the group I am referring to because they are demanding a senior center when you can use the Community Center instead of selfishly asking all taxpayers to spend millions on a social club for a select few. . Obviously a lot of folks agree with me as per comments here. You won't compromise nor will any of you agree to anything else - so there you have it. Apparently you didn't read what I said about running for Select Board earlier - you may want to look back . Once again - this multimillion dollar expenditure will not get my vote and others here in Chatroom agree.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 15:47:04

Judy, I take offense to this. We know you don't like senior citizens and the Community building is used by children during the summer and school vacations. Like I said in my earlier post run for slectperson. You like to call people names so don't complain RUN FOR OfFICE.
Crayton Nickerson Jr <cnick2@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 15:20:08

So, during the school day, children, most seniors and most working people wouldn't be participating in recreation programs (except for pickleball). Maybe I'm missing something.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 10:31:33

Debbie - they are only doing these new programs because they don't want the seniors there. It's remained vacant forever - along with a full sized kitchen there and meeting rooms. Kids don't show up til school is out. Who do they think they're fooling? . They are trying to pull the wool over everyone's eyes. They need to give us credit for seeing through their misguided ways. They all are a deceitful group of people who place their selfish wants over others. Remember this when we go vote.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 10:15:37

Maybe, with all the new recreation programs, the Chatham Recreation Center will be filled to capacity during the school day. I sure do have my doubts.
Debbie
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 10:01:00

Judy,very well said and I couldn't agree with you more.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 08:53:34

Janice - they think if others hear "more affordable housing" by using the current COA building (if a new COA is approved by voters) that will make them vote for a new COA. They are admitting now the price tag is 11 million. What a joke. We have the Buckley property, the church property, the property by the school - and not one thing has been done. When is enough enough? I think our Board of Selectmen has done an excellent job of infuriating voters and it's time to show them what they can do with an 11 million dollar waste of money. They can use the Community Center . I will never vote for a COA after hearing about all their dirty back room deals and the way these ungrateful seniors and their Board of Directors have acted.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 08:44:44

I just heard on the radio that the selectboard voted unanimously to put on the town meeting in May, to vote to convert the C.O.A. building on Stony Hill Rd. for active housing. If that happens, then the C.O.A. will need a new place to operate out of. Now why would voters vote on taking a building already in use, to convert or build for something else. I say if the voters vote yes on it, then the voters should also vote on putting the C.O.A in the Community building and be done with this mess.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/15/2023 - 08:24:07

Just a couple of more points on the senior center:
-Why are we not thinking more about regionalization of such services? If Orleans has a great program why don't we utilize those services? And if Chatham has a great rec program for kids, why don't we share our services with neighboring towns?
-why are we building what some people want as opposed to what we can afford? There may be lots of things I want in a house but I know I have a limited budget and therefore can't have it all.
-why are we building a new building when we have other buildings that can be used? Now I hear the new head of beaches and recreation is creating programs to utilize the community center more....
-and finally, don't you think, if the site was easy to develop, the developer would have done it? Instead he's sticking the town with those challenges and costs....
Amy
USA - Tue 03/14/2023 - 14:44:53

To put things into perspective - Sandwich just opened their Center for Active Living. This is for the ENTIRE town to use . It has an elevated walking path, three pickle ball courts, a bocce court, a 9000 sq ft gym, as well as a full service kitchen and several meeting rooms. It was designed for seniors and everyone else. The entire town benefits. It was 16 million. This is what a town does for their residents. Not Chatham. They want to cater to select groups.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Fri 03/10/2023 - 08:28:49

And don't forget the new plan has an adult day care component which means more staff and highly trained staff. Bring your like minded friends to town meeting and vote no, again.
Amy
USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 16:21:57

After reading the posts of the people who are against a new COA,they're comments are well written and should be considered for not wanting a new one.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 11:22:45

To all of you criticizing us for not agreeing with the COA - - have you even thought what a compromise would do? The folks pushing this are NOT willing to scale this down. You want a social club like the "Jones' for a select few folks while ignoring this Town is in a crisis with water wells, water quality, housing and a host of other issues. One of my older friends said this is very selfish for those of you promoting this. As far as me running for the BOS - why would I choose to do it when it is run by a like minded group of people - mostly folks with no long standing roots here? I would be in the minority and as we all have seen, the majority wins. I'd rather point out the stuff that is being done behind closed doors. You should be ashamed of yourselves for wanting to spend money like that with no compromises. A "NEEDS" assessment vs a "WANT" assessment would be the way to go. You would find you do NOT need a mansion. You can rebuild what you have and learn the fine art of compromise. You could also put something much smaller on that piece of land. No one disputes the seniors need something - but not a 10-12 million dollar building. By the way - normally, in a regular town, after three votes, this would be a moot point. . but not in Chatham - where NO never means NO, and folks still keep at it.
JudyP <judylpat@comcast.net>
West Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 11:01:37

I am so glad all the naysayers about the COA site and building have this soapbox to air their grievances. Would probably be dangerous to your health were all of you to hold that in. No matter the number of members at the COA it is available for all Seniors to use when needed. Number of cars in their parking lot means zip! people arrive by bus and other methods. So what if a town meeting votes things down? Less than 500 ever attend and vote of the 5,000 + population. So I say good for the selectboard to go ahead with this. I appreciate the land donation. Would be nice if the builders in town donated time to the construction, but that is a pipe dream. Here's hoping the plans move ahead and Seniors have a new home for their organization and thrive.
Cynthia Moore <cynthiamoore120@yahoo.com>
South Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 09:01:51

Judy, Here's your chance to run for the Select Board. You keep complaining about how things are done. If you are not happy run. I recall the vote on the COA was for the building but didn't get the two thirds required. That is why it's brought up by some citizens to do it again. Till you walk a mile in one's shoes don't complain. Here's your chance do it.
Crayton S. Nickerson,Jr <cnick2@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 08:52:57

Well said Steve,agree with you on all points. All good points made by John,Jim and Jared.to bad the board members who don't understand the meaning of a No votes will continue to jamb this down our throats till they get their way. Not even willing to compromise on the scale of another palace. Very sad seeing the charm Quaintness and soul of Chatham being destroyed to keep or out do the Joneses.My guess is they won't be satisfied until they can hang a big gold D over the door on their Main st. COA building.
EM <emallowes@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 03/09/2023 - 07:43:37

Jared - I think many of us would support a recall - Mr. Dykens and Ms. Davis first!
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 20:37:00

The selectmen's meeting was predictable and unfortunate. Jeff Dykens was talking about how wonderful the West Chatham rotaries are and then about how great a new senior center would be on Sibley's land. In a couple of sentences, Board Chairman Dykens summed up a chronic problem in this town. The construction of rotaries were petitioned against and voted down in a non binding article at Town Meeting and the selectmen decided to still recommend the project to the state. The senior center in West Chatham was voted down at Town Meeting and here we are going through the process all over. The selectmen are emulating the attitudes of our state legislators of the "nanny state" and disregarding their fiduciary responsibility. Our town officials are saying, "even though you voted no, screw you, we are going ahead anyway". Recall effort, anyone?
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 19:42:37

Steve, well said. You've obviously been down this road before.

I still would like to see a "needs statement." Not a "good to have" statement, a bona-fide "we need this because..." statement that is put before the voters. The military is required to do this, I don't know why a municipality wouldn't be required to do so.

The rotary's were predicated upon flawed (benign way of saying 'misrepresented') data. Things should be crystal clear so that the voters know what THEY are buying. If they want to buy it....OK, go ahead. But this seems to be a bit of a contentious issue. Best everything is kept above-board. Don't short cut the process, and give voters some confidence in the decision making.
JimP
USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 19:39:15

There is an ethical problem to ask taxpayers to but a project without knowing exactly what they are purchasing. The only drawings available are conceptual drawings and not final bid documents. There should be no approval of a project unless and until taxpayers can examine EXACTLY what they will be paying for.
I was in the public bid world as a GC for 23 years, I have seen this scenario many times and it's alway the taxpayers that gets stuck with the change orders and unforeseen expenses. This is how it works: The building committee goes to an architect and tells them what they want. The architect designs a building that will please the committee which includes all the bells and whistles the committee is looking for. The architect has no incentive to design a functional and basic building and is more than happy to build whatever the committee desires regardless of the expense.
I repeat, the taxpayers should not fund any project based on conceptual drawings.
To do so is completely unfair and wrong.
Would anyone buy a car without knowing anything about the car?
steve jesus <sjjesus21@gmail.com>
chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 18:11:07

Every single Select Board member that supports this ridiculous waste of money should be ashamed of themselves. I still don't understand why Mr Dykens doesn't recuse himself. Mr Metters certainly had enough class to do so. There is a meeting now on Channel 18 with NO MODIFICATIONS to original size. I agree with everything Steve and John have said. There is no way this outrageous cost can be justified. No way.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 17:48:49

How about sending the proposed millions of dollars for a new Senior Center incrementally to all Chatham registered voters over say 75 as a one time payment so they can continue to be supportive of, and possibly use, the existing building ? And continue to pay their utility and food bills.
Maybe, not build anything new in the first place!
Or establish a fund that loans out no interest money (forgivable loans) for folks who are aged and close to desperate?
Seems to me you have to have a car to avail yourself of the benefits of the COA proposed Senior Center, or even the existing one. Lots of people my age are not allowed to drive due to vision issues, etc.

I know I don't have a say in what happens in Chatham, but my heart and two of my siblings still live there.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 17:30:33

Has there been any discussion about reducing the size of the projected COA? It seems that the number of people who actually use the COA has been debated for years without a conclusion. The number of cars at the present COA does not appear to justify the size. The old report which indicated the number of seniors in Chatham was most likely accurate. What the report missed was that the lifestyle of so many Chatham seniors which does not include using the COA.
john whelan <sockpirate44@gmail.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 03/08/2023 - 16:22:31

Are the plans and specs available for review? Has anyone seen annual cost estimates for upkeep, personnel,utilities etc for the proposed building?
The reason the board is pushing this so hard is because "seniors" ( I hate that moniker)are a powerful voting bloc and politicians care about being reelected first and foremost.
For a town that cares so much about retaining young families, they sure don't worry about saddling young families with the cost of providing a clubhouse for the elderly.
IMHO, the real reason they want a monument built is because surrounding towns have built extravagant senior centers and the seniors in Chatham are intent on keeping up with the Jones's.
There is no reason that the existing building can not be demoed and replaced by a modular building built on the same site to the towns specifications on an accelerated schedule.
I'm positive that wouldn't fly with the COA because they want what they want and don't care what it costs the taxpayers.
This is about a group of Selfish people demanding a new clubhouse because they say they "deserve" it.
Just because you are old doesn't mean you are entitled to a new toy box at someone else's expense. That's called being selfish.
steve jesus <sjjesus21@gmail.com>
chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 21:36:54

Nobody can seem to see past Marsh's "gift". If he wasn't trying to dump Sibley's property off on the taxpayers, I'm sure nobody would be talking about how fitting the site is for a senior center. The current building needs to be renovated and retrofitted. Going nuclear should not be the town's first course of action.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 20:47:35

Listen up to Judy.....voters! She nailed all the extravagant, unnecessary new projects that will continue to ruin this charming fishing village. Who is the Captain of this ship.? I understand every Select board member tries to assist their constituents, but it reminds me of Washington, DC where all the special interest groups lobby and get what they want. Get going with townhouses at 127 Old Hatbor Rd restricted to families with young children.....HELLO.....playground, elementary school, Monomoy services....HUH?
Emily Cunningham <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 19:53:55

Judy, I find your post well written about the issues going on in this town.
Janice Dusan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 19:11:36

What I find inappropriate is bringing this back to TM for a THIRD time after previous "NO" votes. The fact that no one will compromise on a less expensive price, and most important -- every project the Town has been involved in that has cost major money has been screwed up. Look at the Annex and the Police Dept and the fact another builder had to come in and fix things, look at the Fish Pier and how the Town is being sued. Look at the library and the windows. This is because of poor oversight by our town management on every single item. Let's not even discuss the amount of Town employees that are driving around all day doing nothing but hanging out at Town Landings. We have no money for new wells, yet we are expected to curtail our water use. Now we want to cram housing into West Chatham regardless of the water issues. And you think building a multi-million dollar facility that will be used as a social club for a few select people is the way to spend our money? I would like to know why this issue keeps being pushed by our Select Board and what it is they are getting out of it -- along with other folks that are pushing this ridiculous expense, when we have a perfectly usable Community Center that is vacant most days. This is what I find more than inappropriate.
JudyP <judylpat@comcast.net>
West Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 19:05:04

Janice Susan, As a Senior Citizen I find your remark inappropriate.
Nancy Ryder Petrus <nansea123@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 17:40:58

Nancy, you are entitled to your opinion as I am mine.
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 16:41:36

Janice Susan, As a Senior Citizen I find your remark inappropriate.
Nancy Ryder Petrus <nansea123@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 16:07:19

Judy P. Did you say they want to build a new Senile Center?
Janice Susan <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 14:52:13

Not sure what happened at the park - sorry. I hope folks are aware the new cost of the COA (if we believe it) has now gone to between 10-11 million dollars. This will be voted on at Town Meeting in May. The powers that be refuse to make any modifications to the outrageous design , doors, fixtures that were presented before. Just for a thought - the Town of Brewster paid 26 million for ALL the property and buildings at the former Sea Camps property. Put this in perspective to a building that will hardly be used if current use trends continue. A ridiculous expense to add to taxpayers for a social club that will be used for so few people. Even the current Chairman of the COA Board of Directors told me last fall she did not like that location. I think as a Town, we can do a lot better and utilize the Community Center as an overflow.
JudyP <judylpat@comcast.net>
West Chatham, MA USA - Tue 03/07/2023 - 11:52:27

What happened to the playground structure at Volunteer Park??
Allie H.
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 03/03/2023 - 22:38:51

Maybe what is needed at Commerce Park Lake is to drill a reverse well. If there is such a thing. But not before the Town of Chatham water lines have been proven to be patent. peeayeteeeenntee Like paytent. With no holes or leaks . Like what your ER doctor would want you to have with your breathing when you arrive at CCH.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 03/02/2023 - 17:13:09

Bring your wallet. Most likely well worth the price.
BobR <zut444@verizon.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 02/27/2023 - 17:55:38

Thanks Jim!!! Shows you how I've failed to keep up. I never even got to his one in P-Town either!! Will have to hit the one on 28 when I get up there.
JimP
USA - Mon 02/27/2023 - 06:57:05

Actually, JimP, the Wydah museum is now on 28 in West Yarmouth in what used to be Seaquarium. It moved from P-Town perhaps seven years ago. My son visted there last week and said there was much more room than in Provincetown.
James J Dempsey
W.Chatham+Boxborough, MA USA - Mon 02/27/2023 - 06:44:28

Thank you Jim . You must have some exciting stories to tell about your dives for the Whydah. Exciting and dangerous I'm sure.
AK
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 02/25/2023 - 10:52:53

Emily, we live on the opposite end of the San Andreas Fault from where you live in the desert and at the opposite end of the state. Are you thinking you felt the 6.7 Northridge Earthquake of January 17, 1994? My husband's uncle lives at the epicenter a block away from the Northridge Mall. After the initial quake, he went door to door to all his neighbors and helped them turn off their gas to prevent fire and explosions in his neighborhood. Up north we are still having aftershocks from the Ferndale quake.

In regards to the puddle in Commerce Park and after looking at the photo of the puddle in the Cape Cod Chronicle, could there possibly be an artesian spring?
Carol Ann Conners
Humboldt, CA USA - Fri 02/24/2023 - 18:53:20

AK, I dove on the Whydah for Barry. His offices were in the industrial park (commerce park), south Chatham. He now has a museum in P-Town.
JimP
USA - Fri 02/24/2023 - 18:35:15

I am reading Barry Clifford's book in The Whydah, he mentions his offices were in South Chatham, does anyone know where?
Also two more questions: I just came from the dump, why is so much land being cleared on Middle St?
And why were Solar panels rather than housing placed on Middle St.?
AK
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/24/2023 - 13:00:02

I am reading Barry Clifford's book on the Whydah. He mentions their offices were in South Chatham; does anyone know where?
Also , why is land being cleared on Middle Street? And... why wasn't housing chosen over the installation of Solar panels? Lots of questions, thanks!
AK
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/24/2023 - 12:23:59

I have lived almost on the San Andreas fault for 30 years here in Southern CA Desert. We felt the big one over in the LA area Jan. 1992 ?, Had a little roller type movement on Easter in 1996?......so minor, no damage etc., why live in fear? I never have and never will.
Emily <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Thu 02/23/2023 - 19:01:26

Double that time frame after the feasibility study and the working group and the owners and renters feed back and the quotes to rebuild and pave the road and.....and.... Everything else to cyb. Same old!
Emily <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Thu 02/23/2023 - 19:01:03

Sorry - I meant to say they are trying to eliminate any single family housing being built - not single story housing .
JudyP
USA - Thu 02/23/2023 - 15:56:37

Richard, if can get a copy of the DVD of the movie there is a chapter of interviews with local people there on the 18th. Very entertaining.
Wayne <alongshore2002@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/23/2023 - 13:42:59

I hope folks take the survey the Town has emailed about the housing possibiities they are considering for West Chatham and South Chatham. They are trying to cram as many units as possibe into these areas and it is more than disgusting. Let them know we do not want three story units, townhouses, and apt buildings crammed into our town just to meet quotas. There will also most likely be an article at Town Meeting that will seek to prevent any single story houses from being built in the West Chatham"Village area". They want a "walking village" with strip malls. What these boards are trying to do to our Town is awful. Pay attention or it will be too late and we can never go back.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Thu 02/23/2023 - 12:07:20

There are very few Chatham people around that were there that night, February 18th. Bob Ryder, Nancy Ryder Petrus, and John Ryder were there. As well as Barry Fulcher. I was home sick from school so I was not allowed to go to the Fish Pier. But, I got to hear the radio transmissions between the boat and Chatham Station. There were long gaps. In the words of Captain Dave Ryder, "He had a lot going on".
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 02/20/2023 - 17:51:25

About this time on February 18th, 1952, Bernie Webber left the Chatham Fish pier with a crew of three on what was thought to be a suicide mission. He did in fact retrieve 32 of the 33 men from the stern section of the SS Pendleton. Luckily, he was familiar with and was piloting a Coast Guard boat that was built for such rescues. The CG36500. One of only 135 that were built.
Plans are underway to put the boat under cover, for the world to visit her, no matter the season.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 02/18/2023 - 17:56:30

Sorry I couldn't make the puddle meeting.Just a suggestion.
Could the town look up the building permits and see what the engineers provided for property water runoff and see if it has been installed.
Just an Idea.
pete Skipper <peterskipper@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 02/18/2023 - 11:12:21

One has to wonder if there is a broken water pipe under the lake. It seems like an awful lot of water to accumulate from what little rain we've had since the pumpout. But, if there is no Town water, that shoots that theory down.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Fri 02/17/2023 - 18:05:17

RE: Commerce Park lake. The town did pump out the water at commerce park.

From the chronicle.

"Town officials hope to solve the problem in three to five years, when the sewer system is expanded to include Commerce Park. When the road is torn up for the installation of sewer pipes, crews can also replace the storm drains, billing the owners of property on the road in the form of a betterment tax."
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/17/2023 - 14:11:35

Jared, there are plenty of the 400 watt metal halide mogul base bulbs on eBay. Rated for 2000 hours. $22.00 each. Free shipping.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Fri 02/17/2023 - 11:54:52

Hi Dick, we are using 500w, mogul base, metal halide, with no internal ballast. We were using the 400w, but as of recently we could not find any.

To minimally change the subject on you, have you been past Station Chatham recently? The sign above the front door that was used in the film production appears to have been changed out for one of similar size, that harkens back to years past, identifying the Station as No 42.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 19:58:07

We have been dealing with wealthy people shooting off MAJOR fireworks on the beaches of Eastham, despite the fact that they are illegal in MA. The Police Chief has bee very supportive of getting out the word that fireworks are illegal in MA. But some of these people seem to not care about the rest of us.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 17:58:01

Jared, not to change the subject but what kind of bulbs are you folks using in the Nauset Light DCB 2-24? An inquiring mind from Washington State wants to know. We replaced the 1000 watt incandescent bulbs, and the changer, in 2009. They were costing $150 each. I think there are now mogul based bulbs. Much less expensive.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 17:53:34

Reed is right. My daughter called me up to her bedroom around that time, shortly after going to bed and we were able to watch the fireworks off toward the fish pier it seemed. Looked like a professional display.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 14:10:38

M Reed, if you are in S Chatham the Harwich range was in use last evening. This may be what you heard. Probably Harwich police.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 11:12:24

Not wanting to veer off course of the flooding subject, but.....rant warning here. What is our town's policy on fireworks? Last night at 8, an extremely sharp bang actually shook the bottom of my chair so loud that I jumped, and for the next 10 minutes, fireworks exploded as if it was a finale, on a school night no less, in the middle of winter. Was it CBI? (It was in that direction.) It seems some think they can disturb the peace of residents whenever they want. Do they think there are no families left in our town with infants sleeping or children doing homework or elderly with heart issues? Seems so, as this would never happen years ago at the rate it does now. Have we lost control over our rights to peace and quiet in our town on a winter's night? They were so loud up here I couldn't watch the tv, and this happens several times a year now with no warning. We should only allow them during vacation times starting at twilight in consideration of the town's residents, ( remember us?) not several hours into the dark on a random winter's night when young children are sleeping or doing homework or residents are just enjoying their right to peace.
M. Reed <ccblues@comcast.net>
N Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/16/2023 - 10:57:01

The drainage issue at Commerce Park has been a problem for quite awhile. We have rented vehicles from Kelsey's Auto Rental and noticed it. I sure hope everyone can work together to find a solution to fix it.
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Tue 02/14/2023 - 10:58:09

Bill - Take a ride by McGrath's - no action whatsoever. He's moved some stuff to end of Barn Hill by his shanty. The water is now being polluted and nothing is being done. We have a Town Manager and a BOS that don't know what to do. It's embarrassing, shameful, and dangerous with their inaction.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Tue 02/14/2023 - 07:33:32

Bill, roads are handled differently because they aren't taxed nor listed on assessing records, it seems.
Judy, my understanding is the sewer work on 137 is part of the main lines being done first. Side roads come later in the process.
J Hallgren (as user)
Clearwater, FL USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 23:34:10

Who is paying the property tax for the road? If no one then take the road. Now the town owns it and can sewer it. If anywhere needs sewer it's commerce park.

If someone is paying the tax force them to fix it. They made Mcgrath clean his property as a hazard.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 20:51:37

Whether or not the Town fixes it they need to figure out a solution. It's kind of like the airport mess and they don't want to get involved. What John said below is correct. For folks that want more info pull up the Select Board meeting last week and watch. My personal opinion is that Duncanson wanted no part of it and was less than forthcoming as to why Commerce Park couldn't have been sewered while they have been working on 137 for weeks - closing half the road. Wouldn't it have made sense to do it while this was being done? I've never understood why they do certain areas in town and don't do the adjoining roads at the same time. As far as Atty Costello agreeing with Duncanson- any good lawyer can argue any side of an issue. That's not to say I disagree with Amy or Jared - but I pay a membership to a gym and it would be nice not to have to worry about whether I can get there or not. Something needs to be done and soon. Too many folks and businesses in there to be this inconvenienced.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 19:04:02

I agree Amy. Even Bob Duncanson said an unwanted precedent could be set by the Town going in just once to patch it up. Every private association could demand the Town accommodate then the same way. Should we bail out an Eastward or any other development while the roadway is still privately owned? Town Counsel also alluded to any unrequested Town interference as constituting trespassing. Further, Duncanson explained that none of the original principles of Commerce Park are living or in state and that the roadway was never formally transferred to the current owners. Not that I don't think that the drainage should be addressed, but I don't think the Town should be sticking its nose into the matter by "testing the water quality" or doing a "pumping exercise" with the Town truck or anything else that could expose the taxpayers to a lawsuit or create a queue of homeowners expecting the Town to solve their drainage problems too. I wish Jeff Dykens and Mike Schell could have understood it that way.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 18:49:31

Amy, actually the abutters do NOT own the road! If they did, it would be definitely their problem. But the road is still owned by the company/corp that developed the park and it's now disappeared or dissolved, don't recall which. So in effect, nobody owns it, ok? That's why the town is more likely to be able to do some minor things to fix it.
J Hallgren (as user)
Clearwater, FL USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 18:45:17

Regarding commerce park, it is a private road and the owners of the properties abutting the road own the road and need to fix it. This should not be paid for with taxpayer funds. Select board is wrong to start maintaining a private way, whatever the reason and they should listen to town counsel.
Amy
USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 17:57:05

Anyone remember the "Honey Wagon" run by "fill in the blanks"? Was it John Speight? Chatham has a lot of clay, vs sand , so cesspools were in need of frequent pumping.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 17:36:26

Both puddles back today after the rain. Couldn't get to gym from either side. What a mess.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Mon 02/13/2023 - 12:10:00

Well one has to wonder where all that awful water went. If as was said if it was a health hazard in the road now it is probably a hazard somewhere else.
Wayne <alongshore2002@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Sun 02/12/2023 - 20:21:53

Must have been someone with a gas powered trash pump.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sun 02/12/2023 - 17:10:52

The lake/pond/swamp was drained in Commerce Park. Thank you to whoever did this! The Town probably would have had a feasibility study before they could take action.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Sun 02/12/2023 - 15:33:17

Richard, not too long ago I worked at a Combatant Command wherein we exercised our continuity of operations plan should the New Madrid fault shift. We had studied it - we actually have a contingency plan in place - and implemented a disaster response scenario. When that fault goes, it will literally cut the country in two. Our rail lines crossing the country are critically dependent upon several crossings that will be dropped should the fault erupt. it was an incredibly frightening, and enlightening, experience. Life, as we know it, will be over for a fairly extended period of time.
JimP
USA - Sun 02/12/2023 - 14:39:03

Richard, earthquake insurance is expensive and has a 15% deductible on the value of your home, at least in CA. My husband and I were looking at moving to a place with less chance of earthquakes, even in Chatham, but we do love it here. Cape Mendocino is the site of 3 tectonic plates converging. However, it is a beautiful place to live and the climate on the coast is mild. Resilience and learning to live on shaky ground is key. Jim P may have felt an earthquake. The earth's crust is constantly moving.
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 22:41:37

I couldn't wait to get out of the New Madrid fault line in TN while serving at the Naval Hospital in Memphis. I even had EQ insurance.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 17:45:14

I should have added " a temporary bridge" until the sewer construction comes in to play.
Or maybe Des Eldredge's scow that we used to get to Morris and Stage island, before the roadway in 1956.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 17:27:51

For history of earthquakes in Massachusetts read here:
https://nesec.org/massachusetts-earthquakes/
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 12:15:18

I would suggest a couple of signs be put at lowest point in pond with a easily and highly visible depth gauge marked in feet and inches with a top saying the standard "Turn around, Don't drown" or such.
Because then people would see exactly how deep it is and decide if it's passable or not, assuming some common sense.
J Hallgren
Clearwater, FL USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 11:41:15

Bill P, I did not see an earthquake recorded on the earthquake website: earthquake.usgs.gov website. We are still having aftershocks where we live from the 6.4 earthquake on December 20, 2022. Since we live in the most earthquake area in the lower 48, we signed up for earthquake alert. When we had a 5.4 on New Year's Day, we got the warning alert (for earthquakes greater than 5) right as the ground started shaking. I report all the earthquakes that I feel (and hear) to the USGS website. The other night we had a mild 3.4. And I noted that there had been a small earthquake at Niagara Falls. Plate tectonics is fascinating but also can be devastating, as we have seen with recent earthquake in Turkey.
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Sat 02/11/2023 - 11:40:53

Maybe the Commerce Park Lake needs a bridge!
Maybe the MA National Guard would do a temporary bridge to span the waters as a training exercise.
Or one could be made using empty olive barrels as flotation like the inexpensive ones Cape Fish sells.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Fri 02/10/2023 - 16:49:48

Bill, what part of Chatham do you live in? We're in W.Chatham and never felt or heard anything.
Sylvia Fulcher
USA - Fri 02/10/2023 - 15:13:23

Was there a small quake last night? Around 12:10AM there was a rattle noise for about 15 seconds.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/10/2023 - 07:18:15

It was still icy today although breaking up when I walked it. I was there yesterday for about five minutes walking and have never seen anything like it.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Mon 02/06/2023 - 19:45:44

The Cape Cod Chronicle has a video of the sea ice by Harding's Beach. Brr! Does anyone remember back in the 1970's when it was so cold that Pleasant Bay froze and some Chatham High students drove a VW out on the ice?
Carol Ann Conners
County of Humboldt, CA USA - Mon 02/06/2023 - 18:26:18

This might affect some Chatham or other local kids: The Eastham Elementary School had an issue with either no power or just too cold temps, causing the sprinkler system to behave as it should. Burst pipes in one section caused the rest of the system to discharge. Cleanup caused school cancellation today. Not advocating to go back to unheated one room schools, but why doesn't someone in authority read the NOAA weather, acknowledge that this is an unusual event, and turn up the heat!
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 02/06/2023 - 17:38:54

Watched tonight's BOS meeting about the 1610 Main st. "Gift" from Bill Marsh to the Town for a new COA. HE profits and WE will pay in the long haul. Dykens should have recused himself.....Marsh is the landlord of his wife's Local Color
business. At 81, I have never had any need or desire to even visit the COA. THERE IS A SNAKE In the grass here and a private meeting on Jan. 23 with only two members of the BOS needs more scrutiny and transparency.
Emily Cunningham <Dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Sun 02/05/2023 - 09:58:16

One thing from this severe cold I had not seen before - green pine needles frozen off the tops of pitch pines and lying in the roadways of Eastham.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 02/04/2023 - 16:47:22

I really can't stay (But, baby, it's cold outside)
I've got to go away (But, baby, it's cold outside)

I simply must go
Baby, it's cold outside
So thanks for the show
But, baby, it's cold outside
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/03/2023 - 13:43:47

In response to E.M. I agree we do not need a expensive club house for a new C.O.A.as a matter of fact, we don't need one at all. The C.O.A. can use the building where they are now and any overload can be done at the Community Building plus, some of their programs are virtual now. When we got the price 2 years ago for over $8,000,000.you can rest assured that will not be the price now and that does not include the cost of hiring new people for the new programs they will have. We MUST put our money into our drinking water and housing!!!
J.S. <redpeterbilt7@yahoo.com>
West Chatham, MA USA - Fri 02/03/2023 - 09:03:06

The very well compensated Town Manager in Chatham kinda sets a level for other Cape Cod towns - if she /he can get a lot of $$ for a cushy job, and a Car to boot, that exerts an influence on us who don't have the same level of taxable properties.
Stopped in to Cape Fish this afternoon and was able to buy a replacement red handled knife for one I bought so many years ago.
What is up with Crowell Road being torn up?
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 02/02/2023 - 17:32:42

Let's see if I understand this.
2-3 wks ago we were back to considering the MCI property for the COA . Now because the developer who has done the most to damage to the charm of Chatham to change it into a community for the rich to vacation decides to offer up the Sibley property once again we are back to being forced to swallow once again a project we voted down already. What doesn't this board understand about a no vote to be brought back again so soon . Is it just the 2 members who were privileged to the meeting personal agendas or do they represent the town voters . This developer seems to have the ability to get away with the River Bay fiasco that the is paying for . Tearing down the Sibley property with no permits and nothing is done . Hunters Ride is another one . You can be sure that's not all the powers to be let ife by . Looks to me like our town manager looks out for him more then keeping Chathams charm.
So if this COA in West Chatham is forced down our throats again let's let them hear us say NO one last time . We Do Not Need a club house costing well over 8 million now to house the COA . They can't even show numbers to justify another Taj MaHal
EM <emallowes@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 02/02/2023 - 08:46:45

Agree 100% Bill! There is NO reason in the world the COA can't utilize the Community Center. Enough is enough of this bs. The BOS should be ashamed of their attitude(s) last night. For them to dismiss Carol Gordon when she called them out says all I need to know. Remember, these are the individuals we voted in office. Ms. Davis is up for another term. Time to find someone to replace her.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 02/01/2023 - 10:39:55

The casual flippant attitude of the board to the fact that this was voted down 2 years ago is shameful. I'm sure they were planning this since the day it was voted down. The board was vigorously against all the other locations. Did they have a plan to bring this back up then. It looks and smell like dirty politics and the board does not even see that. It should be voted down on principle of bringing it back up so soon.

Let Marsh donate the land for open space and or recreation. A park/playground would be nice. He gets his tax write off and West Chatham looks better.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Wed 02/01/2023 - 10:03:33

There are a few things that really bother me about last night's vote. The first being how this was turned down two years ago by voters because of the cost of $8M. We were told last night there will be no modifications to the original design. It was over the top -- outrageous. What will the new cost be? The second is that I met last year with the Chairman of the Board of the Directors who told me she did not like that site and did not want a two story building because of safety concerns for seniors. Last night she spoke about the wonderful donation and how they look forward to a new COA. This is exactly how disingenuous these people are. There is no denying this is a generous gift from Mr. Marsh. I'm glad he now is able to obtain a write off on his taxes. The former Sibley property was knocked down illegally without the proper permits, once again with no fines. The other items of concern were how this came about. The complete lack of transparency between our Town Manager, Ms. Davis, and Mr. Dykens was a slap in the face to everyone, including their own Board. They never had the decency to inform the other Selectmen about this meeting. Mr. Metters wisely recused himself from the vote. Mr. Dykens should have done the same. Interestingly not one local resident with generational ties to Chatham spoke in favor of this. It was all the folks that have moved here that are intent on changing West Chatham. With the Planning Board cramming density into housing in West Chatham and now this, it's just another slap in the face to us. West Chatham will be forever changed. This is not the Town that I grew up in and loved.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 02/01/2023 - 07:48:13

Richard, the good news is this will only last about 36 hours. Showing -5 Friday night with 13 for Saturday. But then jumps up to 42 Sunday.

Sunday warm up will see lots of pipes bursting as people don't understand what -5 can do. Make sure to open cabinet doors under sinks and drip water.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 01/31/2023 - 18:50:19

According to NOAA, it was 2016 when the outside temperatures were this low. This will skew the programs that fuel delivery folks use. They depend on a formula based on daily temperatures to determine when automatic deliveries are made.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Tue 01/31/2023 - 17:17:09

I hope folks tune in to the Select Board meeting tonight at 5:30. This "gift" from Mr. Marsh is the first agenda item. Rumor has it that all the "behind the scenes supporters" will be there. Just a rumor - but time will tell. It will also be interesting to see who recuses themselves from the discussion.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Tue 01/31/2023 - 07:16:57

The expression "something is rotten in Denmark" may be applicable here. It ain't Havarti.

Stand by for severely cold weather Friday night. Below Zero predicted. It has been several years that it will have been this cold.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 17:16:30

Well said Nancy. Don't be fooled by Marsh's kind feelings toward the Town. He originally tried to unload Steve Sibley's property onto the taxpayers for more than what it was worth and only decided to gift it after the Finance Committee wouldn't recommend purchasing it. I hope everyone on in this chat room is smart enough to see through Bill Marsh's continuing BS.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 16:34:02

Bill - the others were not informed. This is a classic "behind everyone's back" move. I agree with everything Nancy said below. Until these folks are called out by the taxpayers this is going to continue to happen again and again. Another bone of contention I have is that we are paying for a car for our Town Manager. How many folks are aware of that? I understand the Chiefs of the Fire and Police Dept having one - but this a ridiculous waste of taxpayer dollars. Every one of these selectmen agreed with her contract for four more years at a ridiculous amount of money. The pandering to Mr. Marsh needs to STOP. We need to be more vocal in our distaste for these sleazy moves by the folks at that meeting and pay more attention how our money is being spent.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 11:30:09

"Participants invited at the request of Mr. Marsh were with the Town Manager, Select Board Chair Dykens and Select Board Member Davis."

Why were just these people requested by Marsh? Were the other select board members told about the meeting and allowed to attend? Was the meeting posted and open to the public?
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 11:08:15

Maybe we need a law that states if something is voted down there is a 5 year moratorium before it can go to vote again.

To keep bringing up the same issue over and over again with a little twist here and there after being voted down just looks shady.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 10:59:46

I don't understand the power that Mr Marsh seems to hold within the government in our town.He was recently bailed out in the amount of hundreds of thousands of dollars for causing drainage problems in Riverbay which apparently did not even fix the problem.People's properties have been damaged, making one home that has been put on the market unsellable. The town was supposed to revisit this item on the board agenda to recoup some of the $400,000 spent, after they realized the fault was on the landowners that had Mr Marsh change the topography of a plot, completely removing a drainage easement and causing adverse conditions and a nuisance to the surrounding properties and the town's drainage system beneath the road.This system was put on their property in the '70's to relieve flooding that occurred back then. I requested that any board member with personal or professional ties to Mr Marsh recuse themselves from offering remarks concerning what should be done. The board members did not even reply to my last letter concerning the promised review after the project was completed.It has all been pushed under the rug.My neighbors and I can't be bothered to sue a man who has plenty of money to keep this in the courts while we drain our retirement funds.It is shameful.The select board is supposed to work for the people of this town.
NancyGillis-Hendel <nanhendel@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/30/2023 - 08:16:35

Shareen - your job as a Select Board member is to represent the taxpayers. They have spoken and do not want that property for a COA. In addition to the people you mentioned, what about the others working behind the scenes? You do not give us credit for knowing exactly what goes on behind closed doors. What if this is turned down? Can you guarantee this land won't be turned over to the Affordable Housing Committee and then they can put anything they want there without going to Town Meeting for approval ? This was voted on in 2021 and we all remember it. Now we have the planning board cramming high density into West Chatham and this is just another slap in everyone's face after a COA has been voted down three times. There are a few Select Board members that need to be very careful about what they vote on because of a lot of concern in community about items they shouldn't be voting on due to ethical concerns.
Judyp
WChatham, MA USA - Sun 01/29/2023 - 18:41:30

Dear Chat-Room folks
At the request of William (Bill) Marsh, a meeting was held on January 23, 2023 to discuss his desire to gift the Town his land located in West Chatham -- 1610 and 0 Main Street for a Council on Aging Facility. Participants invited at the request of Mr. Marsh were with the Town Manager, Select Board Chair Dykens and Select Board Member Davis. Also in attendance was Don Poyant, President of Eastward Homes. At that meeting, Mr. Marsh noted his recommitment to the gift first offered in January 2020 and provided an updated and signed 2023 Land Donation Agreement. The Donation Agreement will be considered by the entire Select Board on Tuesday January 31, 2023.
SD
Shareen Davis <sdavis@chatham-ma.gov>
Chatham, MA USA - Sun 01/29/2023 - 17:49:48

Several of my close friends (Barry and Ross) in Chatham have owned planes, built their own, or have landed there at the Chatham Airport. Some have done all. They were pretty much non intrusive pilots. That doesn't seem to be the case now.
Brother John Ryder just told me of a flight in a Piper Cub that Wilfred Berube gave him and Dad in payment for a gift of fish from Dave Ryder.
I missed out on that!
If I had had a bucket list, learning to fly a small plane would have been on it.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sun 01/29/2023 - 17:43:17

Interestingly enough - not all the Select Board were privy to the big meeting with Mr. Marsh, Jill, and Shareen. I met several months ago with the new head of the Board of Directors of the COA. At that time she told me she did not like that location for a COA and she definitely did not want a two story building. I left that meeting feeling pretty good. She really liked the layout of the Orleans COA . These discussions have been going on for months with other people behind everyone's back. I find it absolutely despicable that these individuals would go this route again. One of my friends said they act like spoiled children that will just not accept "NO" from Town Meeting and keep trying until they get their way. I agree. I urge anyone that reads this Chatroom to drive by the current COA and see the number of cars there on different days. Until they can increase their membership and include younger seniors they will never get my vote along with many of my friends. What figure do you think the previous 8 million will rise to now? I hope this is voted down again at Town Meeting. These folks work for us - not against us. I also believe Mr Dykens needs to recuse himself from any discussion since Mr Marsh is a landlord to his wife's business.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Sat 01/28/2023 - 17:53:04

Looks like we have gone full circle back to West Chatham for the senior center. Good grief, as they want to raise property taxes almost 3x 2/12.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Sat 01/28/2023 - 16:18:48

Bill, Apparently it drained as of 7:00 p.m. last night I was told. The huge puddle will be on the agenda for the Select Board on February 7th .
JudyP
West Chatham, MA USA - Tue 01/24/2023 - 15:50:50

Judy, I went through today and there is no water. The lake on the other side is always there.
Bill P
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 01/24/2023 - 14:28:14

I tried to go through Commerce Park yesterday to get to Body Strong. Now there is a puddle on the other side with a BMW stuck in the middle of it right before Kent Landscaping. The businesses from that point around the corner to the other puddle are inaccessible . I've been told it's a private road - yet no one will do anything about this. The Guest Column in the Chronicle last week was spot on. In addition it's an issue for the Board of Health with the fish processing business there. I hope an elderly person doesn't try to drive through there, get stuck, and get out and potentially drown. This is an awful situation with no resolution in sight . The Select Board had this ad a "tentative agenda item" for tonight but it was removed. Like this and the airport mess they sit back and choose not to get involved.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Tue 01/24/2023 - 08:03:11

I Googled it and it was for the shooting victims in California.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Mon 01/23/2023 - 18:16:57

Noticed the flags at half-mast downtown today. Anyone know what made that happen?
BobR <zut444@verizon.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/23/2023 - 18:02:14

There was a time recently when all of us on the Outer Cape were desperate for rain. Now, just look at the NOAA forecasts. Cape Cod has always been blessed with enough rain to bring in the crops and sustain basic lives here. Pools and irrigation systems excluded.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 01/19/2023 - 17:44:19

Jared: There was a time when there was no LifeSaving Service station on North Beach. The Chatham LS Station was physically moved to the newly extending North Beach in the mid 1880s, and then back to the lower beach of Morris Island. Old Harbor Station was deemed necessary after the loss of a large sailing vessel with all hands on the tip of North Beach. Remains of that vessel have recently been exposed near Minister's Point.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Tue 01/17/2023 - 18:02:05

Also, Tuesday, 2-4 p.m. at the Senior Center is the maiden run of the Chatham Remember When group. I am trying to make it in time and if so, will be bringing a few pieces of the Town that may be of interest to some of you.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/16/2023 - 20:52:45

Jared, that is a great description of what transpired. I have much more confidence in the 45's than perhaps many in Chatham do. The boat was NEVER officially tested on the West Coast, although it was operated out there and was deemed to be much more of a boat than the loser 42 footers. Higher bow, good platform, wider intakes for the jet drives, (reduced velocliy, same volume) less sand etc.) I would go with the assessments of the operators of both boats, who I have talked with privately .
Not one who has limited surf boat experience.
Perhaps the role of the Chatham Harbormasters boat should be relegated to summer time work. only.
And, why was there a need for the Barnstable County Sherriff to buy and staff a boat? There are many Coast Guard assets that can readily do what their mission requires.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/16/2023 - 18:08:44

I know there's a few of us still unhappy about the Coast Guard's decision to downgrade Chatham from a surf station to a heavy weather station, and wondering how long until the decision has serious consequences. Last summer, I heard across the scanner that a boat was taking on water off of Marconi Beach in South Wellfleet. The position is within Station Chatham's area of responsibility. Being in Wellfleet at the time, I drove out to Marconi and saw a pleasure craft adrift about a quarter mile off the beach, slowly taking on water. Wellfleet FD responded, the Park Service responded to the beach in case they were needed from the shore, and both the Orleans and Chatham Harbormasters responded boats. Noticeably absent was a response from the Coast Guard in Chatham, which would have had a presumed 20 mile trip if using the old cut. However, Station Provincetown responded to the scene, making excellent time in a roughly 32 mile trip, and nearly four miles into Chatham's district. My guess is that the bar was breaking at that time and the new 45 footer was legally restricted from leaving the harbor. Luckily TowBoat US was near the disabled vessel and stood by until the Provincetown CG boat arrived. No casualties this time, but who knows what the next incident will bring.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/16/2023 - 17:35:58

Jim, you are correct about the Mayflower Shop number. Fine print is my nemesis.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/16/2023 - 10:32:05

And interestingly, Richard, some of those phone numbers still exist. For example, Pilgrim Village was 41 and is now 945-0041. CBI was 96 and is now 945-0096. You thought Mayflower was 63, but today it is 945-0065.

When my parents built here in 1958, their phone number was "Chatham 913" and is now 945-0913. It was once a New England Telephone party line, but is now a Voice-over-IP line.
James J Dempsey
W.Chatham+Boxborough, MA USA - Mon 01/16/2023 - 09:10:30

Here are some early 1950's Chatham telephone numbers for you:
Doane and Beal Funeral Home, 1; E.J. Myers, Builder, 2-J; Charles H. Adams, 10; Stage Harbor freezer, 16; Acme Laundry, 20; Chatham Trust Co., 32; Pilgrim Village, 41; The Epicure, 47; Old Harbor Fish Co., 54; Roscoe Gould, 58 (he was the night telephone operator - slept on a cot between calls); WCC Radio, 60; .Mayflower Shop, 63; and the CBI, 96.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sun 01/15/2023 - 15:38:40

Wonderful to read that Town Meeting voting procedures might be modernized. So much an important part of my ancestry and tradition, I always move heaven and earth to participate in this ritual. But times have changed and people have changed. We need to have accurate counts. Cost concerns? For Chatham that is "chump change"! Let's all insist on transparency in all aspects of government. We are a small fishing village that needs to respect our roots, but protect our heritage, by not allowing outsiders to bring the wrong ideas to our ways. That being said, I believe Town Meeting is vital but counting should be more technical.
Emily Cunningham <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Sat 01/14/2023 - 18:37:18

Great question, but another one that lives in my mind is the. Fog horn at night when I slept in the attic during the fifties and waitressed at the Queen Anne Inn.....such a comforting sound!
Emily Cunningham <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Sat 01/14/2023 - 18:36:51

Richard was kind enough to send me some photos of his excellent model. You can see them here along with a little background on the 40-foot Utility Boat.

Thank you Richard!

https://serenity.jjd.com/cg40534/
James J Dempsey
W.Chatham+Boxborough, MA USA - Sat 01/14/2023 - 16:37:53

That sounds very cool, Richard. I'd love to see a photo of your model. If you don't have a way to put it on the internet, you could email it to me and I'd post it.

I'm going to email you my email address.

I've seen other descriptions of the 40' boat that also said it was pretty useless. Faster than the 44, but wouldn't necessarily get you there.

--Jim--
James J Dempsey
W.Chatham+Boxborough, MA USA - Sat 01/14/2023 - 11:42:55

I have finally completed a scale model of a 40 foot Coast Guard boat that would have been in Chatham in 1956. I plan to turn it over to the Crew at Chatham Station, to add to their collections of model vessels they have had to deal with, or to be proud of , like the 366500. I am not sure this vessel was ever that useful.
When the Chatham Coast Guard Station was on Morris Island before 1939 ,my grandfather , Warrant Boatswain USCG Richard E. Ryder was OIC from 1925 until 1930. He had previously served as OIC of the CG Station at Gloucester. An identical Station to Old Harbor, except there was a railway in to the station boatroom.
Does anyone out there have a photo or postcard of a 40 footer at Chatham.?
I do have an almost complete list of men who served at Chatham Station from 1872 until 1942.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 01/12/2023 - 18:02:56

To add to Jim P's message: When I had a small 16 foot Penn Yan skiff out of Niantic Bay, CT, I too ran the times and compass bearings ahead of time from my lobster traps to the railroad bridge, just in case. Sure enough, one afternoon it shut in thick fog near the Millstone Power Plant. I ran the time and the compass bearing, and got in safely. The first thing I saw was a neon sign that read LOBSTERS, across the railroad tracks , when we were maybe 20 feet off the shore.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 01/11/2023 - 16:45:16

Richard, I have told this story before but I was deep sea fishing with my Dad and Capt. Claflin about 1956 when I was SO seasick they off loaded me to the Pollock Rip Lightship for the day! They caught fish at the Pendleton wreck and gave it to the crew as thanks......It is one of my most cherished, Mayflower, Stage Harbor, Chatham memories! I still get sea sick, I have some kwirky inner ear thing and I do not swim. Good thing I sold my third boat last summer!
Emily Cunningham <dayonown@yahoo.com>
Rancho Mirage, CA USA - Tue 01/10/2023 - 18:35:58

Richard, navigation is a lost art. One of the things I do with every boat I've brought up there was to take a day and run the buoys, log the engine RPM's, compass heading, and time between all the bouys, and then mark them on the chart. GPS is an incredible invention but all electronics can fail. Have a back up for when things go south. Just need to remember the tides and drift and you can get back to port safety.

Did that diving as well. Can't tell you how many times I've taken an azimuth to the beach before submerging, and upon surfacing in a complete fog, just follow your compass. As you know, sound gets screwy in dense fog and the water is an incredibly unforgiving environment.
JimP
USA - Tue 01/10/2023 - 18:21:28

Sorry to hear today the Chatham Branch of Rockland Trust will be closing. Very unfortunate for many folks.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Tue 01/10/2023 - 16:25:22

(Some program changed my entry from assignment to alignment) .
The Chatham fishermen relied on these vessels almost daily, as they would head to the Pollock station, then off to their fishing grounds. Navigating with a watch, their compass, and intuition.
GPS has taken over.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/09/2023 - 17:53:39

Emily:
Those sounds would have come from either the Pollock Lightship or the Stonehorse Lightship. They had distinctive tones, which were reassuring and familiar to us living in Chatham. They are long gone, replaced by buoys, perhaps.
Lightship duty was not a preferable assignment in the Coast Guard. The isolation, the fog horn noise and the fact that they never got underway except to Boston for maintenance was reason enough to turn down an alignment to a lightship. But not all were able to have influence on where they would serve.
Good side? Good fishing off the stern.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/09/2023 - 17:47:19

Does anyone remember the year (or approximate year) that the noon whistle at Vet's Field was retired? I sifted through the Chronicle archives and couldn't find much mention of it. As a kid I do remember when it was being taken down, skeleton tower and all.
Jared Fulcher
Chatham, MA USA - Mon 01/09/2023 - 12:58:14

Bring on some real Winter weather! When the boats at Aunt Lydias Cove are frozen in. When men and women could get eels by using eel spears in Ryder's Cove.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sun 01/08/2023 - 18:03:15

Hi Richard - Yes - Cynthia is my aunt.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Sat 01/07/2023 - 19:40:41

Judy P: Is your Aunt Cynthia? She and I are of the same age, but she might have some insight that I don't have. Being from West Chatham as she was.
Until I read Dana Eldredges columns in the the Cape Codder, I was not aware of the disparity of income levels between those of us kids who grew up in Chatham, and those that grew up in either South or West Chatham.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Sat 01/07/2023 - 19:03:11

Jim - I remember my mom telling me about a football player that died or was hurt really badly. I'll have to ask my aunt - she remembers a lot of that stuff.
Tommy - check out Chatham News/Cool Photos on Facebook. They're dredging and an explanation is there.
Speaking of CBI - does anyone else think it was insane that they weren't allowed to convert a building to house their workers? Chatham does a great job of complaining about lack of housing for folks and here's a company trying to do the right thing and provide housing and they're shot down. This is what happens when folks with no knowledge of the town are appointed to boards and the Select Board.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Fri 01/06/2023 - 09:45:25

Tommy, As I said, I do appreciate all your volunteering - that takes dedication, time,and a real interest in all things Chatham. Just wish more people would follow your example! Thanks for all you and other Chatham volunteers do. Truly believe that the volunteers are what keep the Town running relatively smmothly!!
Susie <susiefishback@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 01/06/2023 - 09:14:22

Tommy Doane was also a respected member of the Chatham Traffic Safety Committee. He contributed many volunteer hours attending meetings and site visits. It was an honor to work with him on the committee. He has served on other boards and committees in town and currently serves on the Finance Commitee. Tommy's comments on town events are based on his direct experience and vast knowledge of the town.
J.D. Cauble
Chatham, MA USA - Fri 01/06/2023 - 08:00:25

Richard Ryder - I did a quick search of the Chronicle's archives and found a story from 27 Sept 1928 saying that a football team had been organized at the high school. I couldn't find a story about a serious injury or that the team has been disbanded. (This doesn't mean there wasn't one, just that I didn't find it.)

I couldn't include the article text here because this forum's check for "bad words" decided I said something bad. Instead you can read the text of the article here:
https://serenity.jjd.com/1928-football-story.html
James J Dempsey
W.Chatham+Boxborough, MA USA - Fri 01/06/2023 - 07:56:17

Does anyone know what is with all the sand movement in front of CBI/
Thomas Doane <tommydoane@comcast.net>
WEST CHATHAM, MA USA - Thu 01/05/2023 - 23:43:11

Susie. Just so you know, I have stepped up and have been volunteering for years.
I have been signing up participants for the Carnival Caper since its inception.
I have been the water stop for the Turkey Trot. Chatham Harbor Run and The Chatham Harbor Run in the Fall, since their inception. Just saying.
Thomas Doane <tommydoane@comcast.net>
WEST CHATHAM, MA USA - Thu 01/05/2023 - 23:40:56

Electronic voting seems to work very well here in Eastham, and has for several years.. It allows a vote to be tallied almost instantaneously, and accurately. I once was a teller, and some of my co tellers had a tough time counting the votes without having to do a recount.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Thu 01/05/2023 - 16:04:12

Tommy, think it might have been a bit of financial concern - First Night would have to pay for additional police detail -- also might have been a bit of volunteer fatigue - by mid-afternoon on a very rainy New Year's Eve day, pretty sure, after all the hours they have put into it in the last year, must have been exhausted making choices.
Having been in similar situations with having to cancel Scout events, have learned that you can't please everyone. My answer has been, then step up and volunteer.
That is not aimed at you, Tommy, as I know how much that you and Linda support all things Chatham!!
Just venting!
Susie <susiefishback@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Thu 01/05/2023 - 08:48:40

I upset that the Carnival Caper was not postponed until Sunday like the fireworks. Maybe a little more thought should have gone into it.
Thomas Doane <tommydoane@comcast.net>
WEST CHATHAM, MA USA - Wed 01/04/2023 - 22:53:36

I was happy to read in the Chronicle today progress has been made on electronic voting. Hopefully this will be in time for the May Town Meeting - barring any ridiculous studies, consultants, and other wastes of our money.
JudyP
WChatham, MA USA - Wed 01/04/2023 - 19:25:23

Thanks Peter for that update. Perhaps the local paper at the time would have a story.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 01/04/2023 - 16:49:07

I was told today by a father of a young football player that flag football is even more dangerous to the younger kids, as they don't have much experience and they crash into each other, unprotected.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Wed 01/04/2023 - 16:46:56

My father was on the Chatham High football team. He was born in 1913 and would have graduated around 1931. I believe my brother has a picture of the team.
Peter Taylor <Denise. Taylor1@comcast.net>
Chatham , MA USA - Tue 01/03/2023 - 20:42:30

My Dad told me that there had been a Football team in Chatham High School, back before he graduated in 1933. However, the team was disbanded due to the death of one of the players.
Probably due to a head injury.
I have seen a tag football league operate in Guantanamo, which seemed to me to make sense. Just grab the flag., and run with it. Not much physical violence.
Is there any documentation of what he told me in the Historical Society records? He was not one to make up stories.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Tue 01/03/2023 - 17:49:21

First Night is pretty much funded by the sale of the buttons - that includes police details. And it is run by all volunteers. It is unfortunate that so many purchase buttons and then share them with friends and families, resulting in lost revenue. Individuals and a few business also donate money. Any one of the performances is worth the price of the button alone. There are many non-button events available to everyone -- including the noise parade and fireworks. Kudos to all the First Night people who do it for their love of Chatham!!
Susie <susiefishback@comcast.net>
Chatham, MA USA - Tue 01/03/2023 - 09:25:47

Who pays for the First Night Fireworks? And the police details? And the extra fire department crews that must be available to supplement the regular crew?
This event is open to the world, with no charge to attend many of the events.
Richard R. <dickryder413@gmail.com>
Eastham, MA USA - Mon 01/02/2023 - 17:34:30

Visit Pleasant Forest Shores Website	CHAT-M-Room (TC) history for prior months

Chatham Historical Society