News from The Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation

Don't you hate it when your favorite restaurant closes their doors? I do, particularly when they have the best peanut sauce this side of Thailand. Tofu A Go Go! is one such restaurant that relocated from Provincetown to Greenfield, MA last spring.

On a recent visit to Greenfield, I stopped by Tofu a Go Go! to order my favorite meal - The Indo - and to catch up with Star and Max to see how they are faring in their new home. I learned that Greenfield is delighted to have them and their business is steadily growing. And I was excited to see a busy lunch crowd happily consuming their signature fresh vegetables, tofu and pan fried noodles.

But I was also sad. Star and Max had a great business in Provincetown and the CDC was a part of their success. Right after September 11^th when business dwindled all over the Cape, the CDC provided Tofu A Go Go! with a micro loan to get through the rough patch. A little cash infusion and a lot of hard work kept them in business for another four years. But it was the lack of affordable housing that ultimately closed their doors. In the fall of 2006, Star and Max were informed that their rental unit was being turned into a condo and put on the market for sale. Unfortunately, the price was out of their reach and they were out of a home. With so few options for affordable rentals and purchase prices still too high, they reluctantly decided it was time to go.

Now I know that one person's loss is another person's gain and so I don't begrudge Greenfield folks for enjoying the best vegan food available in New England. But reconnecting with Star and Max has deepened my commitment to the work I do at the CDC. I don't want to lose any more great small businesses to other areas of the state and country because their hardworking owners can't find a reasonable place to live. And I don't want great employees to lose their jobs because their employers had to close their doors.

The CDC is the only non profit on Cape Cod that provides both housing and small business development services under one roof and Star and Max's story demonstrates how these issues are often one and same. The CDC's founders knew this when they got started 15 years ago and it remains true today.

You can help us in this effort by becoming a CDC member or renewing your membership.

It's the most simple and effective way to show your support for our community.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth Bridgewater, Executive Director

Another CDC Success Story

Mary DeAngelis, Clothing Designer

Mary DeAngelis has achieved tremendous success as a clothing designer and wholesaler, but she says she wouldn't be anywhere without the Lower Cape Cod CDC's Micro Loan Program.

"In the mid-90s I was working out of my house and driving around in my car to visit stores and show them my goods. I knew that if I was going to get my business off of the ground I needed to be showing at the New York trade shows, where buyers from boutiques and stores all over the country come to purchase goods."

But DeAngelis knew it was going to take more than creativity and drive to get to New York - it was going to take money. She wrote a business plan and approached all of the local banks, but was always turned away due to lack of collateral. "Every bank turned me down. I went everywhere, but they wouldn't give me the time of day." Then a friend told her about the Lower Cape Cod CDC.

DeAngelis was able to get some much needed funding through the CDC's Micro Loan Program, as well as an introduction to SEED, who provided additional funding. DeAngelis used these loans to grow her business - purchasing a design studio in Provincetown and increasing her wholesale distribution from 2 stores to over 40. In 1997, SEED presented the Mary DeAngelis Clothing Company with the Start-Up Business of the Year Award.

"I wouldn't be anywhere if it wasn't for the CDC. I am a true small business. I don't want to leave the Cape. I use as many local resources as I can. I employ as many local people as I can. But if you're a small business person and you don't own property, there is no way to get money. The banks just won't take a risk. The CDC is the only thing we've got."

Starting in April you can visit Mary at her new location on Commercial Street - she will be merging her business with Silk and Feathers!

View her website to learn more about The Mary DeAngelis Company.

Micro Loan Program - Do you need funding to start or grow your new business in the new year?

The Lower Cape Cod CDC's Micro Loan Program has loans of up to $40,000 available for eligible micro entrepreneurs who cannot access traditional capital.

Current and Former Micro Loans have supported the following:

         -Construction, renovation or leasehold improvements
         -Purchase of furniture, fixtures, machinery, or equipment
         -Payroll
         -Purchase of inventory
         -Real estate purchases or leases for businesses

For more information and to learn about eligibility requirements, please contact Moira Noonan-Kerry at 508-240-7873 x13 or moira@lowercape.org.

"Deferred, Forgivable Loans--Are You Serious and Do I Qualify?"

The Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation (CDC) and representatives from the Town of Wellfleet are co-hosting a public meeting for year-round residents of Wellfleet and Provincetown. This is an opportunity for residents to learn how to access Wellfleet Regional Housing Rehabilitation Program funds awarded as a Small Cities Grant by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development.

The meeting will take place on January 24, 1 PM at the Provincetown Council on Aging, 26 Alden Street.

The grant funds are delivered and managed by the non-profit CDC to cover essential code, health and safety repairs and upgrades for Wellfleet and Provincetown residents who own and occupy single-family units and who meet low to moderate income guidelines.

For further details on the meetings or the loan program, please call Wendy Palliser, CDC Loan Manager at 508 240 7873, ext 14.

Rental Subsidies are available for Wellfleet Residents!

Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis for a new pilot rental assistance program that is being launched by the Wellfleet Housing Authority. Developed in cooperation with the Lower Cape Cod CDC, it is designed to allow Wellfleet families and individuals to maintain affordable year-round housing by ensuring that their monthly rent does not exceed 30 percent of their household's monthly income.

Eligible individuals and families are those who currently live and/or work in Wellfleet, have lived in Wellfleet while attending a local high school, or have close family ties currently living in the town.

For more information, call Cheryl at the Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation at (508) 240-7873, ext 19.

First Time Homebuyer Education Classes scheduled for February 5, 7 and 12 in Eastham.

The Lower Cape Cod Community Development Corporation is conducting a Homebuyer Education course in Eastham for first time homebuyers. The course will provide information on budgeting, looking for, selecting and purchasing a home, and the local resources that may be available to buyers.

The course will consist of three, three-hour classes. Participants must attend all three classes. Those who successfully complete the program will be awarded a certificate which may make them eligible for certain assistance programs or mortgage products.

Classes are scheduled for Tuesday, February 5^th, Thursday, February 7th, and Tuesday, February 12^th from 6-9 PM at the CDC Offices in Eastham.

Classes are open to any interested individuals or households. A $25 fee will cover materials and refreshments. To be placed on the list for future classes, contact Chris Perry at the Lower Cape Cod CDC. Chris can be reached at 508-240-7873 ext. 22 or by email at chris@lowercape.org.

Housing Program Updates:

The CDC's Housing Development Program is moving forward on a number of diverse projects: over 53 units are currently in the pre-development or development stage!

--Balfour Lane Condominiums, Chatham. The countdown continues!

Cabinets are being installed, and trim is being completed. Exterior brick walkways, some fencing, lighting, and doorbells have also been installed. The next step: flooring and countertops.

--Harwich Main Street Extension. We have begun the 40B permitting process and applications for local funding. We will be continuing the permitting process throughout the winter and early spring, and plan on applying in the state affordable rental housing funding round upon securing permitting.

News from our Property Management Department:

--Nickerson Condo: New energy efficient windows were installed this month, and a new heating system was also recently upgraded.

--Canal House, the CDC's Sober Living Facility: new gutters are being installed and, thanks to the assistance of AmeriCorps, a crew of volunteers will be brightening up the walls with a coat of new paint!

For more information on these and other Housing Projects, contact Emily Loomis, Housing Development Manager, at 508-240-7873 x23, or emily@lowercape.org.

Events, Updates and Membership:

Many Thanks to our Business Supporters:

Bank of America: Bank of America recently awarded the CDC a grant in the amount of $15,000 to support the CDC's Housing Development Programs!

Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank: The CDC received a grant in the amount of $5,000 to support Foreclosure Prevention Programs!

Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Association: The CDC has received a grant of $2,500 to support the CDC's First Time Homebuyer Education Courses.

Seamen's Bank: The CDC was recently notified that it will be receiving $2,500 in support of HART (Housing Advocacy Round Table).

Spectacle of Trees - CDC participation in Hyannis Christmas Stroll

The CDC participated in the Spectacle of Trees which took place on Hyannis' Main Street during the Christmas Stroll in December. "A Seaside Christmas" was one of 20 trees raffled to a lucky winner who received both the tree and the gifts underneath, all donated by local businesses!

Many thanks to Erica DeZitter of Beach Stone Interiors who decorated the CDC tree. Creative decorations were made and donated by Beach Stone Interiors and John C. Ricotta and Associates of Chatham,

Many thanks to supporting local businesses:

The Bookstore and Restaurant
in Wellfleet Spectacle of Trees

Cape Cod Dog in North Eastham

Cape House Hallmark Shop of Orleans

Captains Golf Course in Brewster

Chocolate Sparrow of Orleans

Crocker Nurseries of Brewster

Honey Candle Company of Orleans

Gristmill Gallery and Antiques of Eastham

Oyster Company Restaurant of Dennisport

Ship's Knees Inn of Orleans

Tree's Place of Orleans

Violet's of Chatham

Membership: Join the over 300 individuals and businesses who have joined the CDC! Click here to fill out the Membership Form on our Website: CDC Membership.

For more information on these events, please contact Chris Perry, Director of Marketing and Membership Services at 508-240-7873 x22 or chris@lowercape.org.

News from our Small Business Development Program:

Upcoming Business Builders Workshops:

"Pre-Smart Start"

Jan. 31st, 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

Do you have what it takes to start a business? Lead by professional Beverly Ryle (The Center for Career and Professional Development), we will touch on the aspects of running a business. What it takes to be your own boss and take charge of your future. Is it right for you?

Cost: $25.00

Group Coaching - "The Consultative Sales Model "

Feb. 6, 8:30-10:00a.m.

Businessowners interested in strengthening their businesses are invited to join fellow business owners for an depth discussion about The Consultative Sales Model.

Beverly Ryle, Director of the Center for Career and Business Development, will lead the workshop exploring this approach and its focus on building a relationship with customers.

Building on cornerstones of connection, dialogue and patience, participants will learn that "It's not about the outcome of any particular interaction, but the quality of the exchange over time."

Cost: $30 per session or $100 for four sessions

"Finding/Creating Work on Cape Cod"

February 13, 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Despite the Cape Cod lament that good work is impossible here because of the lack of large companies, low wages, seasonality, etc., conditions on the Cape are part of a much larger change in the workplace, a workquake that has had a dramatic affect on how people look for work everywhere! By understanding the bigger picture and adapting your strategy accordingly you can tap into the opportunities the Cape's unique environment offers you and successfully re-create yourself.

Come join us and explore the possibilities!

Facilitated by Beverly Ryle, Director of the Center for Career and Business Development

Cost: $25.00

The above sessions will all take place at the Lower Cape CDC Conference Room in North Eastham.

Please let us know if you are interested in the above sessions by calling or sending an email to Lisa at 508-240-7873 x25 or lisa@lowercape.org.

TechSMART Openings Available!

TechSMART, the project dedicated to training and linking clients in the use of Internet technology, has some openings available for interested participants!

Click here to learn more about this exciting program.

For more information and to receive an application: Call Moira Noonan-Kerry, Director of Economic Development, at 508-240-7873 x13

We Need Your Help!

Our Property Management Staff work very hard to keep our properties in tip top shape for our tenants. We are planning on some "Spring Cleaning" events with Americorps Volunteers and other volunteer groups to freshen up the units.

We are interested in donations of the following items:

*Roller arms & Sleeves *Paint Trays and Liners

*Paint Brushes *Paint Brushes

*Interior Latex Paint *6 & 8 foot step ladders

*20 foot extension ladder *Drop Clothes

*Caulk and caulk guns *Joint Compound

*Overhead Light Fixtures *Stationary Bike Racks

*Grab Bars for showers & tubs *Exterior solar motion detector lights

*Door Mats

*Home Depot Gift Cards (to purchase supplies!)

We would love to talk to you! Contact Deb Shell, Property Manager, at 508-240-7873 x15. We look forward to hearing from you!

FLEX BUS - Public Hearing regarding Proposed Service Cuts

The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) will be conducting a series of Public Hearings regarding proposed service cuts to the CCRTA fixed-route service. These hearings are for the public to provide testimony on the proposed changes.

A hearing in Eastham will be held on Thursday, January 24, 2008 at the Eastham Town Hall at 4:30 p.m. The last Flex bus southbound leaving Town Hall at 5:55 p.m. The last Flex bus northbound leaving Town Hall at 5:55 p.m.

Click here for more information.

Increased Access To Health Insurance Offered By State Program

Many small businesses on the Cape might well benefit from the Insurance Partnership - a valuable state program.

What is the Insurance Partnership?

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts' Insurance Partnership program helps small businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees (the self-employed need to call for more details). If you don't have health insurance today, or are having difficulty paying for your health insurance, the Insurance Partnership can (in many cases) help pay part of your insurance premium. For each eligible employee enrolled the business will receive up to $1000 a year in Insurance Partnership payments based on the employee(s) tier of coverage (the business must have an enrolled eligible employee to receive a payment) plus a premium assistance payment on behalf of each qualified lower-income employee.

More information can be found at: www.insurancepartnership.org or at (800)-399-8285.

Brady Woodward @ ext. 202 is the Regional Manager for the Cape.

Betty Connor @ ext.103 is the Marketing Manager for Non-profits.

Congratulations!

CDC Executive Director Elizabeth Bridgewater will be recognized at the 2008 Cape Cod and Islands Red Cross Heroes Breakfast on March 7th. Elizabeth will be receiving the "Community Service-Individual/Lower Cape" Award.

Click here to learn more about the C&I Red Cross and Heroes Breakfast.

Director of Marketing and Membership Services, Chris Perry, has been accepted to the Community Leadership Institute!

CLI's Leadership Cape Cod program is presented every year and exposes

participants to leaders invited to discuss such topics as healthcare,

diversity, the environment, Cape Cod economy, the legal system,

the arts, Cape Cod government, and education.

Click here to learn more about CLI!

Cape and Islands License Plates Benefit the CDC!

Although there are currently 16 speciality plates to choose from when you visit or renew your license place with the RMV, choosing the Cape and Islands License Plate directly benefits the CDC! Visit Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles to order your plate and support housing and economic development on the Lower Cape!