Good Old Boys

Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

Jeremiah Pease must be rolling over in his grave. How could this historic home on the lane named after him be cut down in a matter of minutes? Why were the Martha’s Vineyard Camp Meeting Association construction rules not followed by all that were involved?

Was this the work of the good old boys, friend of a friend, cover my back and I’ll cover yours? Why are files in the original folder for 5 Pease avenue missing? Why did building inspector Jerry Wiener get so defensive at the mention of the plumbing inspector, and the fact that plumbing had been in progress without a permit? Who in the inspector’s office had connections with the owners of 5 Pease avenue?

Mr. Wiener called this a progressive demolition. Most of this house came down in 20 minutes. If this is Mr. Wiener’s interpretation of progressive, then these boys were doing the quick step. I can only hope these boys don’t fish the derby, they might try dynamite.

Brian Kirkpatrick

Oak Bluffs

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Fool’s Errand>

Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

On my last visit to Martha’s Vineyard, I was strolling through the Methodist Camp Ground and noticed a large blue tent hovering over the homes around it on 5 Pease avenue. I was wondering whether summer camping was now allowed in the Camp Ground and went to inquire about a spot for my Winnebago. I had always thought the place to be completely antiquated and was glad to see the Camp Ground had finally joined the 21st century. I feel that there is room for a couple of dozen or so camp spots for RVs which could be nestled around that dilapidated old Tabernacle. Then, to my keen disappointment, I read an article in the Vineyard Gazette saying the giant blue tent was not a precursor for a new camp ground but a holding action against progress. I was stunned to learn that people were giving the folks on 5 Pease avenue a hard time about tearing down that pathetic ancient shack and could hardly believe what I was reading. Why are these old fogies against progress? It’s the American way to destroy the old and make way for the new. Everyone knows that concrete is stronger than wood against hurricanes. Personally, I think all of the cottages should be reinforced with concrete. After all, I much prefer a good old concrete foundation over flower beds anyway. Maybe they should move from cottage to cottage until the place is hurricane-proof, flood-proof, earthquake-proof but not foolproof. After all, it takes a fool to destroy one of these houses and it looks as though the Camp Ground is turning into a fool’s paradise.

Phillip Marmanillo

Ledyard, Ct.