Rick Herrick>

508-693-8065

(herricklr@verizon.net)

It was a fun-filled weekend. Rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of East Choppers for the celebration of the hundredth anniversary of the East Chop Tennis Club. The only casualty was the cancellation of the Davis Cup match on Saturday morning due to the rain.

After a nostalgic evening of memory sharing on Friday night moderated by Jim Guest, the weekend culminated with a dance Saturday night at the club. Seventy-five juniors started things off at 6:30 p.m. led by the spirited seven piece Tony Boffa band from Westbrook, Maine. The adult dance followed at 7:30.

Amazing things happened. Jeff Riotte joined the Boffa band twice with his blues harmonica to the rousing approval of the 300-plus party goers. Lyn Herrick wore a dress. Bob Huss danced the night away on two new knees. People we haven’t seen in years returned to the Chop to join the celebration. As the Allie and Paul Hyzack slide show played continuously in the background, Betsy Perrine fed us all. With four generations participating and smiles on every face, it was a wonderful expression of our community.

This special weekend resulted from the hard work of many people. The book commemorating the anniversary was edited by Anne Hazelton and Mary (Fluffy) Woodcock with computer layout help from Anne Lemenager. The book contains Les Woodcock’s well written and informative history of the club, an extensive collection of member memories, and pictures that span the history of the club and capture its special spirit. The book is a gem! If you haven’t received your copy, please contact one of the editors. Additional copies can be purchased from Mary Woodcock for $5.

The 100th Anniversary Committee met for two years planning the event. Ably led by Lee Hunsaker, committee members included Lal Dowley, Anne Hazelton, Lyn Herrick, Allie Hyzak, Joan Potter, Jeanna Shepard, and Mary Woodcock. As you run into these dedicated and hardworking women, please give them a hug. They are the unsung heroes of this remarkable weekend.

Special thanks also go to manager Ned Fennessy and his experienced staff of Nik Wojtkielo, Sam Protzmann, and Kyle Moran. The grounds have never looked better, and the clubhouse was immaculate. In addition to setting up for two major events, the staff had to cope with added court maintenance due to the rain. We are fortunate to have them.

Another special event will take place at the East Chop Lighthouse on Friday, July 30 at 7 p.m. The annual Sunset Concert featuring the Spirituals Choir led by Jim Thomas will honor Della Hardman. Della was an artist, educator, and writer who came to the Vineyard at the age of three. She became a year-round resident of our community in 1986 until her death in 2005. Bring a chair if you want to sit, but come. You won’t want to miss this concert!

Finally, the annual August meeting of the East Chop Association will be held at the Beach Club on Saturday, August 21 at 10 a.m. Because of some confusion surrounding this date, make sure to check your calendar to see that it is correct.