A Time to Remember: Weathering the Storm and the Cape Cod Big Red Summer Gathering

Group of people with Cornell banner

July 23 at 12:20 pm a tornado touched down in Yarmouth tearing through 5+ miles of property. Within minutes another touched down in Harwich. Micro bursts popped up in Chatham.  Power, internet, land line phones, and some cell phone service were down and out across the Cape. Less than 30 hours later the Cape Cod Big Red Summer Picnic was to be held in Chatham. And it was!

The Cape Code Cornell Club President, Karen Sweeney, ’90, of Orleans checked with board member and host, G. Warren Chane, Jr., ’68, of Chatham and he said, of course we are going ahead. Get the word out—power or NOT, it is ON. It is a BBQ and we already have everything we need!

Big Red Gathering / BBQ in Chatham is ON
Join us for a respite from yesterday’s storm and its damage—beer and wine, burgers and dogs on the grill, good company, and a beautiful view from 5-7 pm.

While the invite read 5:00 pm many arrived early, fearing that they would be delayed in traffic due to road closures. Some who had planned to come simply could not get out of their driveways with trees down, others who had plans off the Cape couldn’t get OFF the Cape so came to the picnic instead. Most, if not all had NO power at home, and were happy to share their experiences and stories of how they made it through the storm.  All were happy with the hamburgers and hot dog dinner and in the “CAN DO” spirit of the evening, many brought cold salads and/or cookies for dessert.

Another Cornell memory was made!

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