| Back Letter
to Yenta 06/09/00
Rarely do I agree with Mr. Gerenser, but his letter to the editor,
found in the June 8th edition of the Gazette, concerning the fireworks display [or lack
thereof], is right on the mark.
Who is running this town... the fire company?
Apolitical
Letter to Yenta 05/21/00
I have heard from several residents that the Bucks County Playhouse
and the adjoining "mall" of stores have been sold in order to build riverfront
condominiums. I am unable to confirm either this or if the Playhouse would be demolished,
but it's hard to believe that this would even be considered.
Is anyone able to confirm or deny this rumor?
A Concerned New Hope Resident
Letter to Yenta 05/16/00
Thank You to Corp. Frank DeLuca for his service to the community
through a VERY tough 16 months as interim chief of police. Hope you'll continue to be a
valuable part of New Hope for many years to come!
Paul and Jan Witte
Letter to Yenta 05/04/00
Dear Yenta:
This town has to pay respect to two of its most significant contributions to popular
culture: Aaron Freeman and Mickey Melchiando of the rock band Ween. Not only are they of
international acclaim, but they have always let it be known that if not for New Hope, the
world would never have Ween. What
surprises me, is that this town seems very reluctant to acknowledge and applaude these
boys. Perhaps the majority of New Hope citizens are not fans, but let's not make these
boys expatriates. I encourage New Hope to embrace it's successful prodigies and revel in
their significance.
Sincerely,
Hans Fleischmann
Letter to Yenta 05/03/00
Dear Yenta:
Sadly, I first realized the value of the historic Pickett (Worthington) Red Barn situated
on the Canal at 30 West Bridge Street, New Hope, after I learned that it was recently
purchased for a commercial venture. This Canal barn in as far as my research can prove, is
the only remaining Canal building left between Easton and Bristol that was used for
loading and unloading barges. The second floor still has the large stone wheel and
mechanics in place. It is possible that this building is the only example left. Here is a
treasure in our midst and it would sadden me greatly if yet another part of New Hope's
rich past is in danger. This is the third letter that I have written in recent weeks about
my concern for
the preservation of New Hope's heritage. The revitalization that New Hope is undertaking
will change the face of this town forever. I believe progress is a good thing, but once
again let me state, let us not sacrifice our past for our future. If the Canal Barn
becomes a commercial venture, there are parts of the structure
that would surely be changed, changes that would take away from it's historical value. It
is one thing to leave the outside in tact but it is also important to preserve the
structural integrity of the interior. It is important to educate everyone, especially our
children, on the significance of this historical structure so precariously situated on the
edge of the Union Square project. It would be a real tragedy for our children to see only
photographs of these mechanics, when they could have had the opportunity to touch history
and feel as if they were a part of it. Such an experience is clearly more powerful and
would leave a much larger impression about where we came from as a town, that owes much of
it's story to the Canal. There is local, state and federal funding available to save
historic structures. We need to research these possibilities including the Delaware and
Lehigh National
Heritage Corridor Commission and how they can assist us, before it is to late. We tend to
take too many things for granted, and sometimes we have the notion that someone else will
take the responsibility. As a community we need to come forward and make our voices heard.
Zoning hearings, HARB, Planning Board, and Borough Council meetings are all open to the
public, with meeting times announced in the local papers. We must save what is left of our
historic buildings and keep New Hope's charm alive and well. It is imperative that we
express our concerns about
revitalization, because once a building is torn down or structurally changed the damage is
done forever.
R. Iain Haight-Ashton
New Hope, Pa.
215-862-3747
Letter to Yenta 04/22/00
Dear Yenta... I agree with Ian-Haight Ashely when He talks about
the Logan Inn. Yes, she does need to be fixed up, but it is an important place here in
town. I have been going there for five years, and part of its charm is that it is
historitcal. I would hate to see it turned into something that nobody wants. I hope that
council understands this when they make decisions about it. I don,t want to see my
fovorite place go down hill.
Elaine J. McNeely....
Letter to Yenta 04/21/00
Dear Yenta:
The Logan Inn still remains New Hope's first and foremost landmark, tracing its origins
back to circa 1722, as one of the oldest continuous operating taverns in the United
States.
Throughout the centuries, early settlers, traders, merchants,
Revolutionary War soldiers and their families, river travelers, barge workers, families,
friends and neighbors have and still enjoy the Logan's hospitality. So we must tread
lightly on what we do with this historic treasure.
Anyone can see that the Logan is in need of restoration and repair. Recently we read that
the new owners of the inn will make changes because, after all, the Logan is a business.
But let us just remember this is a unique and special landmark that needs preservation and
deserves our respect.
During snow and rain storms, heat waves and power outages, the Logan has served New Hope
well as a place where neighbors can share the news, get warmth by the fireplace and find
community.
We also read recently that a two-level garage adjacent to this landmark inn and on
historic Ferry Street is planned. We don't care if it's planned for phase one, two or 15.
We say, no way!
A two level car garage would most certainly mar the historic charm of the inn and of Ferry
Street. The Logan Inn has touched three centuries, and we would hate it to become an
eyesore in this one.
We trust HARB, our Planning Commission and our Borough Council, and we hope that they make
the right decisions.
R. Iain Haight-Ashton
Lady Matasovsky
New Hope, Pa.
215-862-3747
Letter to Yenta 04/15/00
Dear Yenta:
I was saddened to see an old building demolished recently. I understand that the house on
Bridge Street in New Hope Borough was not considered of historical significance, but it
was there before the Civil War and in the eyes of most people, that makes it historical.
A house doesn't need to have had famous people stay there to be of significance. It is
enough that generations of families lived and died in that house, marking the past and
present in our small community. I hope this doesn't become a trend.
Progress is necessary for a community's growth, and New Hope needs revitalization, but
history sometimes stands in the way. Every time we tear down an old building we lose a
little piece of ourselves.
R.Iain Haight-Ashton
New Hope
Letter to Yenta 04/04/00
Dear Yenta,...This past week, New Hope lost a very special
person,..Bjorn Profelt. I have lived next door to him for five years
and seen him at council. I have always felt him to be a wonderful man and how we all will
miss him. Due to a cold, I could not attend his service yesterday, but he is my prayers. I
hope that Doris finds strenth at this terrible time. Both Clare and I extend our
condolences.........Elaine McNeely......
Letter to Yenta 03/12/00
Dear Yenta:
Please accept this letter as a public Thank You to the residents of
Stockton, NJ and New Hope Pa. Because of the generosity of the
municipalities that utilize the Lambertville Sewerage Authority, the Authority has been
able to "Grant" to the City of Lambertville $175,000.00 surplus monies for
repairs to the City's infrastructure.
Never mind that it doesn't have any bearing on the Authority's "Mission" to
treat sewerage. It is truly wonderful that the City of Lambertville can count on the
Authority, and through them neighboring towns to help finance a misguided City budget.
Perhaps the Authority will reciprocate by aiding Stockton in
covering the costs to fix their sewer system or paving their roads. Maybe New Hope has a
project that needs financing like sidewalk improvements. Please, I invite our neighbors to
make an application to the Authority. They have "Tons" of money from the fees
they charge. We in Lambertville don't want them to reduce our sewer charges or to finish
their "True" mission,
the placement of sewer pipes through out town where it is needed as in Weeden Street. That
would be too ridiculous to consider.
Again, I Thank You neighbors on behalf of the Lambertville Sewer
Authority, they are to shy to tell you themselves.
Rick Anthes
Former Chairman
Lambertville Sewer Authority
PS Hey West Amwell, are you sure you don't want to be a part of the Authority's sending
districts. We understand that you don't have a municipal tax. You too could join in
contributing to Lambertville's success. Just a thought.
Letter to Yenta 02/22/00
Dear Yenta,
Prior to my recent business trip, I stopped at the Staples to pick up some supplies. When
I came out of the store I was met by a man and his young son who claimed they were from
New Jersey. The man told me that he was one of the people being considered for the chief
of police job in our borough. This man asked me some questions about our community, such
as past and present problems in the borough, traffic conjestion,our youth, my perception
of our police department, etc, etc.
I just wanted to say that I finally beleive our elected officials are
attempting to move forward in finding a concerned individual to lead our police
department. Good luck! Mr. New Jersey
A New Hope Resident for positive Change
Burry the old hatchets!!!!!!
Letter to Yenta 02/08/00
Good afternoon...
Did you know all the frustrations with Union Camp are now being played out in New Hope's
sister-in-law town of Manayunk?
Exact same concerns, residential or commercial, traffic and parking
etc..
I'm curious, since New Hope is about 1 year ahead of Manayunk in this planning vs building
vs park debate; about which 'civic groups' are involved if any, with this project...
I'd love to talk to them to find out what their experience has been..
Thanks...
Hal Schirmer
Friends of the Manayunk Canal...
hal@jtan.com
Letter to Yenta 01/20/00
Re Judy (Gerenser) Williamson's letter of 1/19/00.
That's the spirit we need in New Hope. We have problems but we also have solutions within
our grasp. To hell with the naysayers. The future of our community is bright. Be involved,
contribute. Hat's off to our volunteers.
Letter to Yenta 01/19/00
I can only hope that the author of this letter is a child. No adult
could possibly be so mistaken about the nature of New Hope and what we face in the future
as a town. (Unless they arrived here yesterday). I am a lifelong resident who has lived
and worked in many varied areas across the country, and New Hope is still "
home." My family has had a business here since the mid-1940's, which qualifies me as
a "native" at least. As a child I remember talking to the "stars" from
the Playhouse (and even being in a play, at the Playhouse which was a great thrill to my
fourth grade self, think makeup!), playing on Dr. Flood's front porch in a rainstorm with
his grandchildren, and going to the "Aquaclub" for a summer swim with the
Community Association. I was actively involved with the Historical Society as a Board
Member, and
managed the semi-annual Antiques Show as a volunteer for five years. So I have some
credentials. While I certainly am NOT pleased about the increased traffic, congestion,
etc.in the
area, some mornings it takes 10 minutes or so to exit my driveway onto Bridge St., when
this was never a problem before. But I have to say, the person who wrote "Dear
People" doesn't get it. By criticizing the "!0 cops, meter people, etc".,
he or she has NO idea as to the challenges faced by our cops, fire fighters, etc. As a
"big-little" tourist town... we are NOT a "little town" at all. I
guess back on Staten Island or wherever he/she is from they are used to
paid fire companies (no less glory to the paid departments ) but are totally clueless to
the fact that for the past 50 years or so, OUR firefighters are US. (So please volunteer
if you'd like.) Next time you hear that annoying siren go off, think about YOUR son or
daughter responding to God knows what situation!!! As a matter of fact, I'm old enough to
remember when our local phone exchange was "VOLunteer ... how about that.
Anyway, perhaps "Dear People" would like to know that more often
than not, there is only ONE or TWO police officers on duty at any given time to handle
crowd control, bar fights, shootings, emergency situations like fires and accidents,
domestic altercations of a variety of
flavors and tempers, just like the "big city" ( by the way did you know...a
large portion of the police force are part timers, with NO benefits of any kind) and that
New Hope is a "Destination" with thousands of people arriving in a single
weekend. Think Rehoboth or Ocean City (Heck. think "Magic Kingdom") New Hope is
NOT about fun...it's about business, and we better start thinking seriously about
competition from Lambertville, (really cool lately) Peddlers Village, Princeton,
Flemington, etc. if we are to be successful, but please, letters about "fun" are
ridiculous and ill-timed, we need to start thinking about our future as a
"destination", with better signage, traffic control, parking, tourist facilities
( read: toilets) and amenities in general. ( Ocean City MD. has a cop on every corner in
the "fun" district in the summer. Want that ? You might be interested to know
that New Hope has just about the cheapest tax rate in the County (From recently published
material, I believe only Solebury is cheaper.). (Be careful what you wish for) As someone
said to me, New Hope doesn't have a traffic problem...it's the same cars driving around in
circles looking for a parking space. Think about it!!! Anyway, I guess I'm frustrated by
the many new-comers to our town, who come for all the beauty, arts, and freedom we offer,
and who are totally clueless as to what we're about. As the saying goes "Often wrong,
but never in doubt", please learn a little bit
about our town, its glorious history, before you write such a senseless letter. We are
MORE than a "bunny at Easter", (and what the heck does "Kathy Lee"
have to do with anything. ?)
Judy (Gerenser) Williamson
Letter to Yenta 01/11/00
Has anyone else noticed that politics in New Hope tends to parallel
our country's national and
international events?
1. President Clinton impeachment hearing -- Chief Brobson hearing
2. Subsequent polarization of political factions in Congress over Ken Starr investigation,
impeachment
hearings, and airing of dirty laundry by BOTH sides.
3. Outcry from the public that "we've heard and seen enough", and it's time to
get back to the real
priorities of running our government.
4. Attempts at Syrian -Israeli peace accord -- meetings in New Hope to heal bitter
disputes and have
factions try to work together for the common good.
Let's give the new Borough Council our support and TRY to arrive at real solutions for our
town -- No more
power-plays, past resentments, sneaky maneuvering or "gotchya' " tactics. Let's
work on hiring and
supporting a new community-minded chief, let's attend public meetings to address revenue
generation, let's
breathe some fresh air into New Hope's lungs again....
Thanks
Letter to Yenta 01/10/00
The greatness of New Hope was and still should be it's free
atmosphere... You said something that is so true. Let's bring the fun back. But fun must
be spontaineous and natural. This was the way it was when New Hope was at it's best. The
little town has to open up again and be free again. The less we try to order it, the
better!
I am sure that you remember the days when there were more liberated people in New Hope...
This was because it was a place that was open, free, spontaineous and not overwhelmed with
rules and regulations and control and more control.
Freedom and open-ness are the key to the revival of great little New Hope. It'll never
survive as a bastion of conservative values... Freedom brings forth art, and art is what
New Hope is all about. Even the real people are art!
Thanks..
Letter to Yenta 12/24/99
Dear People of New Hope,
Well here we are, the day before X-Mass, and a week before the new year. Over the past 5
years we have seen the present city officals bring this town to an all time low. This
little town is no longer the place to visit, shop, eat, drink and be merry. Is only me but
has the number of people who visit and spend money in New Hope declined. This X-Mass
season I hear from business people that they are as much as 40% off from last year. What
do we have to look foward to next year, 50% less that last year. The election, prior to
the past one, we all heared from all the elected officals that there will be a change, and
it did, but not for the better.
At this time, the little town of New Hope has more useless people on the payroll than ever
before. This includes, the borough manager, the 10 cops, the meter people, and the list
goes on. We are not Doylestown, we do not have the size, the number of business, the
number of people living here. We are just a little 1 sq. mile town on the river. Yet the
city officals wish to operate as if it was a big city
The first item to look at is how to operate this little town as a
little town. By removing the Borough Manager and reducing the number of cops alone, will
save a large amount of money. The other area of waisted money, is the money spent for
legal fees, to defend what is not wrong. Yes there is free Grant money from the State, but
why are we spending $300,000.00 or more to receive Grants that we are not granteed to
receive. Is this good busienss? Are the city officals who own a business in town operating
their shop in this manner. I don't think so, or they would be out of business. The present
city officals want to show everyone in town they have the power, at any expence.
New Hope must open it's arms to the world and give them a reason to come to town. All
people want is to have a good time and spend their money. For the world to do this we must
give them a reason. We create the reason for people to come and visit New Hope.
Over the past few years we have taken the fun out of New Hope,now we must find a way to
bring the fun back on Main Street. Most of the business in town are not what we would call
a need business. Most people in the real world do not need a new painting for there wall,
or a table from the 1950"s, a new sex outfit, candy, bag of sage, doll house, or any
of the many non-need items sold in town. In the real world people need jeans, jackets,
hats, suits and other needs for day to day living. Therefore we must find other reasons to
bring people to town. The key, to the answer of this statement is FREE FUN. By creating
programs that will give the buying public something for FREE nd this something is FUN.
will bring the people to New Hope, once there here and having FUN, they will spend.
Therefore, by taking all that money the borough spends on nothing, and using this money to
bring people back to New Hope, may be more profitable than a Grant we don't have the money
to get.
1) We don't even have a Santa for the kids to see, sit on his lap, and give there x-mass
list to.
2) With the history of this town we don't have fireworks.
3) With all the witchcraft shops, sex ware shops, and other way out items sold here,
there's not a big deal make for holloween.
4) We only get the over flow of the shad fest.
5) There are no free concerts.
6) 3 years ago we had a tree lighting on ferry st., and there was 6
people there. While in another town this size, there was 10,000 people at there tree
lighting. Why, the buiness people raised money to have Kathy Lee, plug in the lights.
7) There is not a bunny in site at Easter.
8) In most towns the business people work togeather, here they work to fight each other.
The direction is clear, and we must do something soon.
One more item:
How does a person, who has a business in town, who was closed down twice for selling crack
pipes, and smoking items to minnors, who pleads guilty in court, is allowed to have a
licence to operate a business and is still selling crack pipes and smoking item to minors.
The people of New Hope are concerned that we have a correct image, and yet ever minor form
NJ and the Pa area come to New Hope to buy Crack pipes and smokes. Now there is a great
image for this town.
Lets all do the right thing cause it's the right thing to do.
Letter to Yenta 12/19/99
Dear Yenta:
The people of New Hope should know that the Civil Service Hearing for Interim Chief Frank
DeLuca, is being held at the High School December 20th, Monday at 7:30 P.M. Anyone
interested in finding out the details of the suspension of Chief DeLuca should
attend.
Letter to Yenta 12/18/99
Why oh why is there no public outcry about the closing of River
Road? Why are the business people in New Hope not complaining loudly that the main route
from 95 into town will not be open for who knows? Where are the citizens who must travel
for work and pleasure into Phila. on 95? Most of the locals know the short cuts but we
have an expensive ad on TV (which is great by the way) and then visitors get lost and give
up trying to find us. There was a huge outcry about the parking meters but not a
word about the fact that shoppers can't get here in the first place.
Signed - Curious
Back
|