Robbins Report

Don't miss D'Italia's reopening in Wellfleet

New look, same great food

Photographs and story by Peter Robbins

After being closed for vacation for a month, D'Italia's opened with a new more intimate atmosphere and a very pleasing new look.  Lenny D'Italia and Kevin Millet hosted an invitation only private pre-opening extravaganza last night. It was a standing room only crowd feasting on an out of this world Italian buffet.  If anyone left hungry it was their own fault. The new décor is quite pleasing and offered a cozy atmosphere for  everyone to enjoy--exactly what Lenny and Kevin were hoping for. Earth tones and a nice faux painting job really added to the new look of the restaurant.

Everyone attending was quick to comment favorably about the new look. The relocation of the bar opened up the floor area and created a real European pub feel with a local twist. It is always nice to be able to sit where you can watch your meal being prepared.

As always the food was outstanding, and Lenny and Kevin always make you feel welcome, just like you are returning home for a bite to eat.

The pizza and the varieties are the best on the Cape, for that matter one of the best on the East Coast.  Many missed the restaurant being closed but were not shy to express their gratitude for the upcoming reopening. The official reopening is tonight (Saturday) at 5 p.m., you guessed right, it's prime rib night.

Read an earlier review here and check out the restaurant's website here.  D'Italia's is located at 955 Route 6 in Wellfleet (near the Marconi light), 508-349-2213.

50 comments »

Bounding for Bound Brook Island and Brokeback Farm

Cape Cod Times offers an eye full -
Bounding for Bound Brook Island and Brokeback Farm

  Above is a screen shot of today's Cape Cod Times "Cape Cast" feature by Eric Williams offered from their front page online. By mid-afternoon it was removed, but above is what it looked like until then. When you follow the Times link now a notice states "This video has been removed by the user."

Outsourcing applications results in offering pornography to children

by Peter Robbins

I've been under the weather for a while and recently, as my energy level begins to increase, I've started answering emails and telephone messages.

EDITOR'S NOTE:
In case you can't read the other videos available on right above for your pre-teens looking at The Cape Cod Times "Cape Cast" video today (01-23-09), here are the choices offered at 11am;

Stud kissing with muscle sailors,
The animal odd couple,
OklaHomosexual (watch in HD),
South Beach candid pics,
Brokeback Farm Gays pt. 2, and
Vulvul Island Agogobanana.

   Your kids may be going to this site for research for school, etc. and gain access to this kind of garbage.
   If The Times knew anything about the web they would know that anyone an embed videos on the website without having it go to a site they can not control like YouTube.
   That's how we do it on Cape Cod TODAY, see here.

Wellfleet is always of interest to me and when I went to the Cape Cod Times online site, a CAPE CAST video called Bounding for Bound Brook Island drew my attention. This Cape Cod Times multi-media presentation, was a three and a half minute walk through a wonderful part of Bound Brook Island by Eric Williams, hosted on YouTube.

Actually, for the young person doing research on the area, the video proved to be light, informative and would interest the average outdoorsman to hike the area enjoying the trails and some historic locations along the way.

After watching the video, I noticed a link on the right of the page entitled "Related Videos". As I found the Bound Brook Island video interesting, I decided to explore the related links. There were some other Cape Cod videos, however much to my surprise and horror, the other videos linked through the Times' Cape Cast were several gay sexually-graphic videos mixed in with the innocent Cape Cod ones. 

So, you go from a walking tour of Bound Brook Island, to Brokeback Farm Part 2, Stud Kissing with Muscle Sailors, Oklahomosexual and an ongoing list with links to other sexually explicit sites that are certainly not appropriate viewing for all potential visitors to the Times' site.

For some, this may not be an issue. When it comes to sexual preference, I have no prejudices.  However, I do have a problem when informative innocent links are mixed and referenced to sites such as linked by this Cape Cod Times multimedia presentation. I know even at my age I am naive to many issues in today's society and having said that, let me say this, regardless of the reason, these types of links are not appropriate for a local newspaper.

4 comments »

Changes proposed for Barnstable junk dealers

Barnstable licensing board decision continued until February 2nd

   Attorney Richard Cohen addresses the Barnstable Licensing Board.

Story and photos by Peter Robbins

Remember bringing your unwanted silver or gold to a local junk dealer and walking out with cash? That will be a thing of the past if the Town of Barnstable approves the new changes that are being proposed covering the "junk dealers" licensed within the town of Barnstable. The Barnstable Licensing Authority held a public hearing Monday proposing amendments to the Rules and Regulations of the Licensing Authority under MGL Chapter 502, "Junk Dealers".

Police Liaisons Lt. Jo Ellen Jason and Officer Steven Maher of the Barnstable Police Department made a presentation to the Board and public using figures and information collected since 2006.  In the past three years there were 4,837 Breaking and Enterings and Larcenies within the town resulting in $2,566,611.99 in reported loses.  The items reported stolen included 449 computers, 532 radios and televisions, 233 CDs and DVDs, 391 tools, 254 auto parts, 171 household items and 913 pieces of jewelry or precious metals.

One of the licensed dealers in Barnstable.

According to Officer Maher, the jewelry and precious metals accounted for $1,648,300.27 of the total.  Among the items stolen were this writer's digital camera, taken from my vehicle on December 15, 2008.

The new regulations were welcomed by Barnstable Detective Sgt. John Murphy who said, “I could not be more enthusiastic about endorsing this project. Property crimes are devastating and sold for a penny on a pound, melted down never to be retrieved or recovered.” Murphy went on to explain, without identifying anyone because of an on-going investigation, that between November 1 and December 1 one retail store had reported $20,000 in losses of CDs, XBox and video games sold to some dealers in used electronics.

Local Attorney Richard Cohen had no objections to the majority of the proposed regulations. Representing a local licensed precious metals buyer and wholesaler, he raised strong objections relating to the Town of Barnstable restricting buyers to a $50 cash purchase policy. Cohen called the proposal not only unreasonable but questioned the constitutionality of requiring such a practice saying, “cash is a legitimate means of any transaction.” Cohen went on to explain, “gold prices change day to day. The police chief, by requiring the buyers to hold gold for 21 days is setting the price of the gold.” At the request of Licensing Authority Chairman Martin Hoxie, Attorney Cohen will submit a brief before the next meeting on February 2nd for review by town council and the authority.

Some of the additional changes include a Barnstable Police record of transaction form, a digital photograph of property purchased, weekly reporting to Barnstable Police and record keeping for three years.   Also, purchases over $50 must be by check, to buy or sell customers must be at least 18-years-old, no purchase is to be made without consent of the owner, there will be a 21 day hold on precious metals and gems and a 15 day hold on other items.  Police may require up to a 180 day hold at their discretion.

According to town records, there are 17 licensed "junk dealers" in the Town of Barnstable. Both the Licensing Board and the Barnstable Police acknowledged there were many unlicensed businesses that were dealing with used items including precious metals and gems. After obtaining a copy of the licensed establishments, calls were made to several establishments identified by this writer.  When called and asked if they bought silver and gold, each of the unlicensed dealers replied, "yes we do".

This begs the question why apply for a junk dealer's license?  Of course it's the right and legal thing to do, but it would appear that these tougher regulations will only impact the licensed dealers already following the rules.  If someone prefers to be paid in cash (I know I do), they will most likely seek out the unlicensed dealers who will pay in cash.  And there are plenty of them--in just a short time, I found five within the Town of Barnstable.

One person I spoke with said, "I don't want no check, I've got no way of cashing it."  And then the other extreme, a young mother at one location with tears in her eyes had begged a ride from a friend to sell some items to feed her crying child, but she didn't have  proper identification.

This is a difficult situation for police and business people. Some people in authority may think if junk dealers don't like the rules here they can move the business elsewhere.  To them, I would offer some words of caution.  Don't drive them too far off Cape or nothing may ever be recovered, like my camera that probably ended up in Boston.  Now is the time to find some common ground.

22 comments »

New Homeless Camp in Downtown Hyannis

National Homeless Persons Memorial Day observed here
Memorial to the homeless who died on the shores of Cape Cod this year

  Where those selfless folks who help our homeless spent last night.

Story and Photos by Peter Robbins

With a who's who of speakers addressing the National Homeless Persons Memorial Day, all had been touched by the issue, but some lived it.

Each of the speakers had a topic of concern or a story that would touch the hardest heart.

The program started with an introduction from Major Ralph Hansen of the Salvation Army about the National Coalition for the Homeless which founded the National Homeless Persons Memorial Day in 1990 to bring attention to the tragedy of homelessness and to remember "our homeless friends who had paid the ultimate price for our nation's failure to address the issue."

The most profound information shared was that from Mr. Alan Burt, Coordinator for Salvation Army's Overnights Program.

The silence was deafening when he read a memorial to those who died in homelessness on the shores of Cape Cod this year as he intoned the names "Abagail, Coleena, Leroy, Arlene, Patrick, Frank, Todd and Myron.”

The fear for those left out in the cold and approaching torrential rains last night had to make you wonder if this list may not grow in the time remaining in 2008.

A dozen died here in 2007, 87 since 1990

He said that twelve died in homelessness in 2007. He went on, "Lord we ask that you welcome these souls into your loving hands, that their times of loneliness and suffering be over for all eternity.”

Sunday night Deacon Murphy, Alan Burt, and a brave group were to experience what the homeless do on cold blustery nights by sleeping out on North Street, Hyannis.

The records showed, eighty-seven people died in homelessness on the shores of Cape Cod since 1990. There has been much discussion, comment and inquiries made as to where these people are from.

Barnstable Town Councilor Janice Barton provided statistical data that reinforced the fact that the homeless are Cape Cod people of all ages, the majority between 35 – 54, from all ethnic groups. The majority are Caucasian. 6 from off-cape (5 out of state), 7 from Falmouth, 4 from Barnstable, 4 from Dennis, 3 from Yarmouth, 3 from Sandwich, 2 from Nantucket, 2 from Wareham, 2 from Provincetown, 2 from Bourne and one each from Chatham, Plymouth, Onset, Brewster, Eastham & Truro. This represents those who are in housing or with access to a shelter, not those still living on the streets or in the woods. The question needs to be addressed, are the homeless here because of services?

Billy Bishop, homeless, not helpless.

It is really a simple answer, the issue is a Cape wide problem, Barnstable is to the Cape like Boston is to the state. The services are here, thankfully, and it is the same theory that applies. “If you build it they will come.” From Provincetown to Plymouth, we all are part of it, we have a duty, a duty that could have an impact on any one of us in these financial times. If you have studied some local publications in recent days, there have been more foreclosures than local jobs.

Operation In From The Streets Needs Your Help !

The continued success of this program may depend on you. Operation In From The Streets, the Town of Barnstable Human Services Committee's initiative that brings chronically homeless to supported housing and services needs your help. To continue this program, it needs funds! Your donation will go directly to provide housing for individuals who have nowhere else to turn. Your tax deductible donations to Operation In From The Streets, c/o The Cape Cod Council of Churches, P.O. Box 758, Hyannis, Ma. 02601. Any support you can offer will be greatly appreciated.

Coordinator Alan Burt.

Major donors to the program have been The United Way, Towns of Barnstable, Falmouth, Eastham, Yarmouth Chatham, Harwich & Truro. Other major donors include, Anonymous construction company, White Hen Pantry, Cape Cod Foundation, Sovereign Bank, Christy's Markets, St. Marys Episcopal Women and individuals Cape wide.

National Homeless Persons Memorial Day Schedule of Events

A 1:00 pm press conference was held Sunday at the Salvation Army. Following at 4:30 there was scheduled a Benefit Concert at the Federated Church in Hyannis, with all proceeds going towards helping the homeless through the Cape Cod Council of Churches. Following the concert a Memorial Ceremony Program at The Federated Church, followed by a social gathering at the Salvation Army for refreshments.

Presentations at the press conference were made by several people involved with the homeless.

Some had personal experiences to relate, but most carried a similar message of concern. Town Councilor Janice Barton's sincerity about her commitment for the programs was obvious.  "It is my fervent hope and reasonable expectation that this vision, first conceived within the Town of Barnstable, will grow to include every town of the Cape in the critical effort to improve the conditions for our region's homeless. In the past four years, Operation In From The Streets has thankfully received financial support from other towns on the Cape as well as individuals and groups across the region.”

Deacon Dick Murphy.

All expressed concerns about recent budget cuts and shortfalls. Suzanne Sullivan, Advisory Board President for Department of Mental Health for Cape Cod & the Islands, “At least 30% of these people have diagnosable mental illness. We were just cut 6 out of the 13 case managers, these are the people reaching out to the community. Why is it they are always on the backs of the most fragile part of our community ?”

Tom Naples, from Council of Churches was saddened by today, but went on . “Cape Cod is blessed by people who are doing something, we're in the right direction. Today we remember those we have lost, I will miss them all. Each one of them touched my life. Take a look at the weather, several people would be outside tonight if not for In From The Streets.”

Rachel Carey Harper, Clerk of Barnstable Friends of Quaker Meeting, offered many words of wisdom, “We are all agents of change to make a difference, we can change disasters to miracles.” Lawrence Brown, teacher, Cape Cod Academy and Vice Chair of the Cape Cod Interfaith Coalition commented. “I am one of the lucky ones. I go home to warmth at night. There are no scriptures, in any religion that refer to the Samaritan telling the man on the side of road to get a job.” He went on to describe how Samaritans make a difference. They reach out and help and take care of those in need without consideration of cost or consequence."

Other speakers were more personal. Honoring those who had passed who were homeless was Billy Bishop, President of Homeless Not Helpless, spent many years homeless himself. “ It's a miracle I am even standing here today, I can't thank the people that helped me enough. Because there is help out there we have 16 people today that would otherwise be on the streets. We all have to keep pitching, this is a tough ball game we are in. I'm going to take it to the bottom of the ninth” referring to financial needs during a time when funding is showing up as a shortfall in everyone's budget. Other speakers reiterated many of the same philosophy and upcoming financial worries.

Tom Naples.

Dick Murphy, Deacon of Hyannis St. Francis Church, acknowledged in his own gentle way that there were some problematic people, but summed it up by saying, “Treating people with dignity is important, people respond to that.”

A New Camp In Downtown Hyannis

The most unlikely place to find a camp, try the Salvation Army. To demonstrate that they care about the homeless, and in honor of the National Homeless Persons Memorial Day, several of the people involved with homelessness and the related services will be setting up camp tonight, and will be spending the night outside, as many of the people they serve and protect do.

At 10:00 PM Deacon Murphy, Alan Burt, and a brave group were preparing to experience what the homeless do on cold blustery nights. Two addition tents, 26 degree temperature, and the wind cutting like a knife, the group was preparing to spend the night on the streets, their pledges of doing so was serious and true. A cold night for the adventure of the dedicated, nothing new for those who live it day by day.

20 comments »

Hyannis Harbor Construction Projects Ahead of Schedule

New pier and boat ramp part of harbor's facelift

   Work progresses on the "Old Baxter's Pier".

Photographs & Story by Peter Robbins

Hyannis Harbor's facelift featuring construction of a new pier and boat ramp is well under way. This massive undertaking at the town-owned "Old Baxter's Pier", now referred to as Pleasant Street Docks, is ahead of schedule, according to Marina Manager Eric Shufelt.  "Bob Our's crew is doing a fantastic job, they are ahead of schedule and I wouldn't be surprised to see the decking start to go on soon."

The pier at the end of Pleasant Street has been servicing commercial fishing vessels for generations and was in desperate need of repair.  Progress to date appears to be well within the time frame for completion, if not sooner.

The same contractor recently finished the work at Uncle Tim's Bridge  (see here and here) in Wellfleet as well as the major construction of Wellfleet Harbor Marina.  According to Shufelt, he and a group from the Town of Barnstable were headed to Wellfleet to see if the stone-type construction would be appropriate for Barnstable Harbor.

At the easterly end of Hyannis Harbor the long overdue construction of the old Lewis Bay Ramp, commonly referred to by locals as "Webster's" is underway as well. The pier, ramp and parking has been in disrepair for many years, and people have been talking about much needed improvements for the last 15 years.  Finally talk has been replaced with action and project demolition is underway.

The construction will include a new concrete boat ramp with floats, new bulkheads and retaining walls, drainage and additional parking. This small public ramp is one of the busiest ramps in the Town of Barnstable. Upon completion it will be renamed the "Gary Brown Boat Ramp" according to previous reports by Town Manager John Klimm, honoring Brown and his service on the Barnstable Town Council.

   "Old Baxter's Pier" construction.

   Another shot of the "Old Baxter's Pier" construction.

   Marina Manager Eric Shufelt thinks it won't be long before the decking is put in place.

   Once work is complete, the boat ramp will be renamed the "Gary Brown Boat Ramp".

1 comment »

Licensing and water woes continue to plague Wellfleet's Bookstore Restaurant

An update on the Bookstore Restaurant in Wellfleet

   A handwritten sign on the slider to the bar says the restaurant will be reopening on December 26th.

Photographs & Story by Peter Robbins

So many positive things have happened in Wellfleet this past year including the unveiling of the new Uncle Tim's Bridge (see here and here), the implementation of some of the town's commendable green efforts, and the continued success of the world-renowned Wellfleet Oyster Festival.  Still, one can only imagine the inherent difficulties in running a year-round business in this small unique fishing village.  And to do so, you must have a valid business license issued by the town.

Yet, according to the Wellfleet Town Administrator, Paul Sieloff, the Bookstore Restaurant has operated without a business license for all of 2008.

In the minutes of the November 6, 2008 Board of Health meeting, Carol Parlante, the owner of the Bookstore, told the board she was unable to get her business license because she had not upgraded her septic system.  The Chair of the Board, Richard Willecke, gave a chronology of the enforcement orders history (see below) on the Bookstore and would not accept Parlante's statement blaming the Board of Health for her inability to get a valid business license. Willecke went on to explain that Parlante was given six months reprieve at which time the business was allowed to stay open.

Lezli Rowell noted that Parlante proceeded at her own risk by operating the business without a license while the Board of Health would not accept the risk of signing off on the license while the applicant remained in non-compliance with the board's enforcement orders and the food establishment sanitary code.

Chairman Willecke also mentioned the fact that the board has received public scrutiny for its efforts to guide the the Bookstore towards compliance rather than exert the full enforcement authority of closure. 

As I spoke with Sieloff, he commended the Wellfleet Board of Health for its continued efforts working with the Bookstore's owners on the restaurant's septic and seating issues.  "They are still operating on a tight tank condition so there is no polluting taking place."  When asked if the restaurant will be able to permanently tie into the town's water supply, Sieloff was uncertain about whether or not the Wellfleet Water Commissioners would be able to approve a permanent hook-up.

Calling the Bookstore an "iconic" business, Sieloff is hopeful the current issues can be resolved. "They are sometimes the only restaurant open during the off season in Wellfleet," he said.

When asked how one serves food and liquor in Wellfleet without a business license, the town administrator reiterated the words of Lezli Rowell, "They operate at risk."

It is possible that even more is at risk when operating without a valid business license from the town.  According to a minutes entry dated October 30, 2008,

"Received call from Paul Sieloff regarding issuance of business license for Bookstore. Bookstore having problem obtaining insurance without business license."

When I asked Mr. Sieloff about the insurance problem, he said he was aware there was an insurance issue with the Bookstore, but did not know whether they currently had insurance or not.

Insurance is not the only thing affected when a valid operating license from the town cannot be obtained.  If a restaurant doesn't have a business license, how can they possess a valid liquor license?  A call to the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverage Commission yielded the following answer from the Executive Director Ralph Sacramone, "We will not comment at this time as the issue has potential to come before us in the future."

A sign on the slider door of the Bookstore Restaurant says they will be closed through December 26, 2008.  Hopefully that will be enough time to resolve some of these licensing issues.

The Bookstore History (From the Wellfleet Board of Health)

• 1980: Sewage Disposal Permit for a 95 seat restaurant with a total daily flow of 3480 GPD
• Certificate of Compliance issued September 1981
• 12/2005:  Sewage disposal permit to inspect leach field 95 seats listed on permit signed by Michael Parlante
• More than 4 pumpings identified in July of 2007
• July 20, 2007: issued ORDER to upgrade, system to be replaced within 90 days
• August 1, 2007: Mike Parlante appealed Health Agent's decision in writing
• August 6, 2007: seat count conducted by Andrew Petty, 14 on patio, 50 in lower dining room, 32 on lower deck, 57 in top dining room, 32 on top deck, 21 at the bar, 26 + 14 person bench for a total of 246
• August 7, 2007: complaint regarding sewage overflow during the evening of August 4, 2007:around 10PM. Site inspection conducted, spoke with Mike Parlante who denied said overflow
• August 8, 2007: Board of Health meeting to appeal Health Agent's decision, Rowell moved that "The BOH sustain the Health Agent's decision of failure for the septic system serving the Bookstore Restaurant, and allow for continued maintenance pumpings in the interim, and grant an extension for upgrade deadline; requested that Parlante provide maintenance records to the Health Department, and report back to the Board within six months with engineered plans for the required upgrade." Passed by a vote of 4-0
• February 13, 2008: Letter issued to Ms. Parlante advising that the six months had passed with no engineered plans submitted to the Board and that her business license would remain on hold until such plans were received.
• February 14, 2008: Emily Beebe submitted as extension request for the Bookstore Restaurant to comply with the order to submit upgrade plans
• February 21, 2008: Board of Health listened to request extension, discussion took place regarding "White Knight" technology; it was decided that this technology could not be used at the site due to DEP approval letter for product. Beebe would return to the Board within two weeks with a new plan.
• March 6, 2008:Board of Health Meeting, Board voted 4-0 to have preliminary plans submitted tot he Board within 2 weeks time. Final plans to be submitted within 4 weeks time, with completion of construction date to be determined after approval of plans, the business license will be withheld until completion of construction, and any failure to comply would result in a Board of Health closure of the Restaurant and may result in court ordered enforcement.
• March 13, 2008: Letter issued to East Cape Engineering, DEP, Bookstore stating the files on record clearly show the establishment of a 95 seat restaurant and the new design plans should match accordingly.
• March 19, 2008: soil evaluation conducted, water monitoring well installed to establish ground water elevation.
• March 20, 2008: Board of Health Meeting, discussion took place regarding hooking up to municipal water supply and I/A technology. No plans were submitted, no extensions were granted; motion from March 6, 2008 still stood.
• March 20, 2008: Health Agent received a letter from DEP requesting information following a complaint received at their office for a failed subsurface sewage disposal system at the Bookstore Restaurant.
• April 3, 2008: Board of Health Meeting, East Cape Engineering passed out preliminary plans to the Board, discussion took place regarding what type of system the Board was interested in, high groundwater determination,I/A technology, leach field sizing and setbacks. Final plans to be submitted with variances requested at the next BOH meeting and April 17, 2008.
• April 16, 2008: Sanitary Survey conducted at Restaurant with DEP, 95 seats enforced by DEP.
• April 17, 2008: Letter issued to Bookstore Restaurant, ORDERED to reduce seating immediately to 95 and ORDER to correct food code violations within one weeks time.
• April 17, 2008: BIH Meeting, Tim Brady requested a continuance so the Bookstore could get a more definitive answer on a hook up to the municipal water system. BOH denied the request for an extension and opted to hold an emergency meeting to approve plans on April 22, 2008.
• April 22, 2008: BOH Meeting, variances granted plus a plan was approved. The state DEP has 60 days to grant approval.
• June 13, 2008: DEP denies variance request because SAS is located within zone 1 of their PWS, current plan increases flow from 3323 gpd to 3380 gpd, and DEP has a record of another water supply well on the property that was not shown on the plan; Septi-tech unit will have to operate under Provisional Use, not general use, the existing grease trap should be relocated to maximize separation from the water supply well. DEP gives 60 days to address deficiencies (August 12, 2008)
• July 18, 2008: Meeting held at MA DEP to discuss potential for the Bookstore to hook up to municipal water. Septic flow is discussed as the numbers are very close to the maximum water system capability. Mike Quink, Tim Brady, Brian Dudly, Robert Bianchi,Mike Parlante, Julia Willecke, Paul Millett, Moe Barocas, and Hillary Greenberg were all in attendance. DEP advised that a temporary hook up (three months) to the municipal water system would be allowed to guage an accurate water flow from the establishment as the flow on the establishments meters differed by 800,000 gallons between years.
• July 21, 2008: Letter from Tim Brady requesting 90 extension to allow the town water issue to be pursued and to address other comments on DEP letter of June 13, 2008.
• August 7, 2008: Board of Water Commissioners requests seat count by the Assistant Health & Conservation Agent. Count turns up 223 seats.
• August 8, 2008: Cease & Desist letter issued to Bookstore for operations in excess of 3325 gallons per day flow. Bob Bianchi, attorney for Bookstore was advised prior to issuance of letter. Meeting with Paul Sieloff to request Town Counsel assistance.
• August 8, 2008: Seat count in compliance.
• August 12, 2008: DEP deadline to address deficiencies. No correspondence has been received by this office addressing deficiencies or approving 90 day extension.
• September 11, 2008: Deadline as established by East Cape Engineering (90 days). No updates from East Cape Engineering and no approvals for extension from MA DEP.
• October 30, 2008: Received a call from Paul Sieloff regarding issuance of business license for Bookstore. Bookstore is having a problem obtaining insurance without business license.
• October 29, 2008: Letter from East Cape Engineering (received by Health Department on November 6, 2008 ?) Requesting an additional 90 day extension while they await final approval from Water Commissioners.
• November 6, 2008: Letter sent to Water Commissioners from Health Office inquiring on status of Bookstore water system hook up and water usage.

Read related posts below:

• Bookstore ordered to reduce seating to 95 seats
  
• Bookstore seeks a 90-day extension from the DEP
  
• Bookstore Restaurant Plan Denied by DEP
• Massachusetts DEP makes surprise visit
• The Bookstore finally gets the message
• The good graces of the Board of Health have expired

27 comments »

Weather delays the Barnstable Harbor dredge

Project off to a rocky start - some barriers raised, some washed away

   Sediment barriers appear to be washing away with the growing tides.

Photographs and Story by Peter Robbins

According to Rob Gatewood of the Barnstable Conservation Commission, communications with the County revealed a delay in the arrival of the dredging equipment until sometime next week.  Originally, it was thought the dredge would be here this week.

"Dredgings are always messy projects." - Rob Gatewood, Director of the Conservation Division

In addition to the delayed dredge and supporting equipment, other concerns regarding the recent work at the harbor including the removal of old spoils were filed via email to Gatewood and to the Department of Environmental Protection by Attorney Paul Revere III.  Revere's email outlined some eighteen potential violations regarding the project.

The email read in part:

..."As we discussed, the preparations for the dredging have begun and Bortolotti on behalf of the DPW is removing material from the containment structure".

And continued,

..."I have reviewed various permits and believe that the Bortolotti's actions may violate one or more of the following conditions as follows:

1. Ch.91-Gen. Cond. 9: Requires notice prior to dredging activities
2. Ch. 91 - Spec-Cond. 4 & 5: Allows only "beach compatible" sediments on Millway Beach
3. WPA-DEP Spec. Cond. 6:  Sand Management Plan Not Implemented
4. WPA-DEP Spec. Cond. 7:  Requires Black Fine Grained Material to be removed from Beach
5. WPA-DEP Sec. Cond. 8: No Daily Inspection of Beach Nourishment Activity
6. ConCom Gen. Cond. 9: No Complaint Sign Posted
7. ConCom Gen. Con. 12 & 13: Change of Plans Not Approved by ConCom or Agent
8. ConCom. Cond. II.2: Requires Compliance with all conditions and filing of forms A&B Since you were unaware that the Project began, I assume that these forms haven't been filed.
9. ConCom. Spec. Cond.II.3:  Signage
10. ConCom. Spec. Cond. II.4: Notice Prior to commencement of work.
11. ConCom. Spec. Cond. II.5: Protocol for Evaluation of dredge spoil used for beach nourishment not developed or submitted.
12. ConCom. Spec.Cond. II.6: Only clean compatible sand may be placed on Millway Beach
13. ConCom. Spec Cond. II.8: Removal of Organic Material
14. ConCom. Spec Cond. II.9: ConCom has never approved using spoil in the containment for beach nourishment as required by this condition.
15. ConCom. Spec. Cond. II.10: Does not appear that elevations of stilling basin have been determined and height now exceeds existing
16. ConCom. Spec. Cond. II.11: Damage to geotextile on the Northwest face has not been repaired but rather has been covered.
17. ConCom. Spec. Cond. II.12: Sand Management Plan has not been implemented for Millway Beach/Blish Point locality prior to any nourishment activity.
    
    (Emphasis in order of conditions)
18. ConCom. Spec. Cond. 17: Sedimentation barrier not maintained and not inspected on a daily basis. Hay bales are floating away at high tide.

The email closed,

"I hope that you have contacted the DPW and I request that the conservation Commission review these matters at their meeting tomorrow night. "

(email sent at 1:10 p.m. December 8)

Rob Gatewood send a return email to Mr. Revere the same day at 4:44 p.m.:

Paul, Visited site this pm w/Bob Bergmann and Christine Player, Vine Associates. Overall, found project to proceed. Pleased w/quality of excavated sediment. Having bad stuff stockpiled in parking lot. Once completed, beach will benefit greatly. I thank you for your note, happy to go over pt by pt if you like.

A visit to Barnstable Harbor confirmed some of the concerns outlined in Revere's email including the timing of the removal of the questionable material.

Photographs taken on Tuesday, December 9th do in fact show the sediment barriers being washed away in many locations.  According to the tide charts, high tide on the 9th was 10.4'.  The tides continue to rise and will peak at 12.1' on Saturday, December 13th.  It therefore seems likely that most of the sediment barriers appear as though they will be overwashed in a few days.

When asked about the barriers and their current condition, Gatewood agreed it was problematic, and that options could include dismantling the controls.  "I am not that concerned with the barriers being overwashed at the beach area," said Gatewood.   He explained that the quality of the material that might escape is of beach nourishment quality.

Gatewood did express concern about areas of the salt marsh. "Dredgings are always messy projects", he concluded.

Leave a comment »

Wellfleet's on the way to going green

Green flagpole, green library, what's next for the Outer Cape town?

   The town's flagpole is now illuminated at night by stored power from solar panel technology.

Story & Photographs by Peter Robbins

As I visited with Wellfleet Town Administrator Paul Sieloff yesterday, it was apparent he was enthusiastic and energized over the Town's efforts and completion of a green project and was preparing to send out a request for proposal for another.

Recently, through a grant and some donations, the flagpole on the lawn of the Town Hall will now be illuminated nightly at no cost to the town.  The installation of the solar-powered lighting system was made possible by a cooperative effort between the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, the Town of Wellfleet and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Sieloff is excited that the flags will now be illuminated each evening.  He took particular pride in letting Veterans know that the MIA-POW flag would be illuminated as well.

Another equally significant green project is nearing its funding goal and Sieloff's staff is getting ready to prepare a request for proposal for the installation of solar panels at the Town's public library.  In May of 2008, with the approval of the Board of Selectmen, the Wellfleet Public Library and the Wellfleet Alternative Energy Committee embarked on a fund raising effort to raise $60,000 to help meet the costs of installing solar panels on the library roof under a rebate program from the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC).

To date $52,000 has been raised.  This amount began with a $30,000 contribution from an anonymous donor.  With donations from individuals, benefit performances, book signings, and quilt sales, they have almost reached their goal. 

It is predicted that the new system will generate over 20,111 kW/ hours each year.  The total cost for the system is $132,185.  The MTC provides some $73,000 in incentives leaving the library responsible for about $60,000--the goal they are approaching rapidly.

The new solar panel system will provide at least 25% of the library's electrical needs, saving some $5,000 per year.  The system will also provide power during closed hours which will credit back through the grid, possibly allowing for additional savings.  "This is $5,000 right off the top of a budget because of the savings," according to Sieloff.  Over the life of the system, the savings could exceed $200,000+.

"This is all through donations, grants and incentives at no cost to the taxpayers, it's wonderful. We are also seeking other grants to add solar power to other town buildings." - Paul Sieloff, Town Administrator

Sieloff proudly stated, "This is all through donations, grants and incentives at no cost to the taxpayers, it's wonderful. We are also seeking other grants to add solar power to other town buildings."

To participate in this effort to lead Wellfleet towards a greener future, you can make a tax deductible contribution.  Donations should be made out to the "Town of Wellfleet" with "Library Solar" written on the memo line.  Donations may be left with library staff or delivered to the Town Clerk's office at Town Hall. 

Hats off for the Town's efforts and to the many dedicated people involved!

Leave a comment »

One man's trash isn't always another man's treasure

UPDATE: What a difference a day (and a little exposure) makes

The eyesore on Phinneys Lane is no more as of Thursday.  

Sometimes it's just trash

Story & Photographs by Peter Robbins

This time of the year is difficult for everyone.  Some have loved ones overseas, people are out of work, uncertainty about the future abounds, and others are just trying to stay warm. With concerns such as these weighing on the mind, it is sometimes uplifting to drive around at dusk and enjoy the various decorations and lights people display on their homes during the Christmas Season.

This year I noticed less home displays than in previous years.   I hope people are just waiting to turn the holiday lights on closer to Christmas to save energy. 

Thinking about lawn "decorations",  I considered the  old saying, "one man's trash is another man's treasure" and I came to the realization that that isn't always so.  Sometimes it becomes a health hazard.

Phinneys Lane in Centerville is one of the most highly traveled roads in the town of Barnstable.  As I've driven by for weeks now, 854 Phinneys Lane has been "decorated" with trash at the street side.  Trash bags continue to be invaded by varmints and even though public officials drive by the home numerous times during the day, the eyesore remains.

It's quite a contrast to the home decorated for the holiday just a few doors down.

The house appears vacant.  The front storm door blows in the breeze and other discarded items are visible in the yard.  A real estate sign, bearing one Christmas color, is located next to the garbage.  This would be of great concern to me if I were the listing agent, yet nothing has been done.

I hope this article finds its way to the party responsible for this neighborhood eyesore or at least to the appropriate town authority for enforcement.

11 comments »

Look out Barnstable, here comes the dredge!

Dredging preparations are under way at Barnstable Harbor

Photographs & Story by Peter Robbins

After all the talk, it appears the dredging of Barnstable Harbor is about to begin. Contractors from Bortolotti Construction were photographed Friday removing old spoils to create a stilling basin for the new dredging spoils.

Spoils presently within the basin will be removed.  Should testing determine that the spoils are appropriate for beach nourishment, they could be used at the Millway Beach location.  If not, they will be disposed of in an appropriate manner.

The Barnstable County dredge and support equipment was due in Barnstable by the first part of December.  According to one source, the equipment will be here next week.

2 comments »