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A "Growing" Business
Cape Cod native Lucas Dinwiddie has spent the past 4 years growing his new business, Halcyon Farm in Brewster. With a focus on high quality produce, Dinwiddie is utilizing an acre of land to produce beautiful lettuces, radishes, beans, peas, herbs and a variety of cherry tomatoes. As he says, "We grow what works".
Earlier this year Dinwiddie received a loan through the CDP's Micro Loan Program. Focused on a new well and irrigation upgrades to take his business to the next level, he needed a match to a grant he had received from the MA Department of Agricultural Resources and the CDP was a fit. Today, Dinwiddie is pleased with the impact of the investment, resulting in greater yield and an even higher quality product. He commented, "The drilling of our irrigation well was a huge last piece of the Halcyon Farm puzzle. The MEGA grant and matching CDP micro-loan allowed me the financial advantage to implement a significant operational system very quickly, increasing revenue in the short term and ensuring a stable water source for the long term."
You can find Halcyon produce at the Orleans and Wellfleet Farmers Markets, in dishes at local restaurants and at his roadside stand along Route 6A in Brewster (3915 Main Street).
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Just Like New
Lu Ann Angelone moved to the Cape in the late 70's and has lived in her home in Harwich for 30 years. Built in the 1930's, the house still had its original windows and was in critical need of electrical upgrades to bring it to code when Lu Ann read about the Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program in a local newspaper.  | |
Before
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After applying and being accepted, the electrical issues were addressed, along with upgrades smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Eight windows and two storm doors were replaced, the whole house was re-sided, and to top it off, she got a new roof. When asked about her house post rehab Lu Ann said, "It's like a new house." She also commented about the program, "It is amazing there are programs out there like this. I feel so lucky to have had this work done because I could not have afforded it myself. I would highly recommend it to anybody."  | |
After
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The Housing Rehabilitation Loan Program is a joint program offered by the CDP and Harwich Ecumenical Council for Housing (HECH).
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Getting "On Board"
Barbara and her husband have owned a home in Truro since 1997 and moved here full time in 2011. Prior to retirement from "paid" work,  Barbara held a number of positions with IBM in sales, marketing, and human resources, including executive positions in both US and global divisions. After retiring from IBM, Barbara worked with a Boston consulting firm on issues affecting working parents in large multi-location businesses. She served on the board of Planned Parenthood of Connecticut, including two years as chair, and is currently a trustee of the Truro Public Library and a member of the Truro Taxation Aid Committee.
When asked why she joined the Board of the CDP, Barbara commented, "I love the Outer Cape, but we would all benefit if more young people chose to live here. Affordable housing and year-round jobs are critical to retaining and attracting young people. CDP is committed to addressing those needs."
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A Note from Jay

Dear Friends:
We've been very busy the last few months preparing to take advantage of a tremendous opportunity for the CDP to secure local support for our programs, including those supporting Lucas and Lu Ann featured above, utilizing the new Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC).
Last summer, our State Legislature passed this innovative initiative that paves the way for the investment of over $66 million for Community Development Corporations between 2014 and 2020. Later this fall, the CDP will apply for an allotment of Tax Credits from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to make available to individuals and businesses who make a contribution of $1,000 or more.
The Tax Credit is valued at 50% of the contribution and may be used by any individual or business with Massachusetts tax liability. Here is how it works: You give the CDP a gift of $5,000. We issue you a tax credit worth $2,500 off of your Massachusetts state tax liability. You are also eligible to take the federal deduction on the remaining $5,000, so that the original gift of $2,500 ends up costing you $1,500.
As part of our application for an allotment of tax credits, we would like to include commitments from generous individuals and businesses who would like to contribute to the CDP and receive tax credits. If you are interested in learning more about this innovative program, please contact me.
As always, thanks for your support and your interest,
Jay
P.S. We're talking about all kinds of things every week, so if you'd like to join a more regular conversation with us:
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Photos courtesy of
Abigail Chapman
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Thank you for helping us create opportunities for people to live, work and thrive on the Lower Cape. |
Upcoming dates:
Thursday, Aug 22nd Thursday, Sept 26th Wednesday, Oct 23rd
The CDP has arranged with SCORE to offer Individual Business Counseling with SCORE counselors right here in Eastham.
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Remember, during August and September we're partnering with the Family Pantry of Cape Cod, Lower Cape Outreach Council, WE CAN and 20 local restaurants in a campaign ensure that a safety net is maintained for the many Cape Codders who, even with multiple jobs, need help "Making Ends Meet". Click here for more information and a list of participating restaurants.
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Calling Business Owners
Join Cape Cod Score for "Successful Small Business Management" Workshops!
Beginning September 18th, this 6 week series is for anyone running or starting a business. Topics include:
Business Planning
Sales & Marketing
Tax Strategies
E-Commerce & Web Design
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This Place Matters
92.1 WOMR & 91.3 WFMR
Wednesdays 12:30pm
Join host Susan Lindquist
lunchtime talk about life on the Lower Cape.
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This institution is an equal opportunity provider
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