By Dave Rogers
Staff writer
—
PLUM ISLAND — A sure sign of a close-knit community is when people rally together to undo a serious wrong.
That was the case recently when local residents and business owners donated $1,300 to buy a new specially designed buggy to allow those with disabilities the chance to enjoy Parker River National Wildlife Refuge's beaches.
The chair, made from PVC tubing and equipped with oversized plastic wheels and a large, comfortable seat, replaces one that was smashed into several pieces by vandals in August.
The senseless act provoked outrage from refuge employees and those depending on the chair to take full advantage of the protected reserve's beautiful beaches. The original chair had been at the station for more than 11 years without incident.
Once word of what transpired spread, it wasn't long before donations became pouring in, said Jean Adams, outdoor recreation planner at the refuge.
"People really do care," Adams said. "All these people were so supportive; it's a great thing."
One of the largest donations, $500, came from the Friends of the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge. Friends Vice President John Fichera said when he and his wife, Deb, heard what happened to the chair, it was a no-brainer that his organization would help.
"I just asked, 'Who do we make the check out to?'" John Fichera said.
Fichera added that the Friends group, which now has more than 90 members, was formed to deal precisely with such incidents.
"This is an example of why the Friends is important to the refuge as the refuge is to the people," Fichera said.
A matching $500 donation arrived shortly thereafter from Matter Communication in Newburyport. Mass Beach Buggy Foundation of Sagamore Beach contributed $50, and the remaining money came in a dollar at a time through donations to the refuge, Adams said.
On a windy, but temperate, Sunday, Adams unveiled the buggy to the Ficheras, who then took it out for a quick spin around the parking lot and nearby grass. The buggy still had its "new car" smell, and its blue color was very bright, Deb Fichera said.
They said the buggy that the refuge had been using since the vandalism, courtesy of the Department of Conservation and Recreation from the Salisbury Beach State Reservation, was out of a job and would be returned shortly with thanks.
When not in use, the new buggy will be kept under lock and key inside the refuge's recently upgraded visitors center. Anyone who requires use of the buggy can call the refuge in advance to make arrangements for it, or stop by the center when they arrive to see if it's available.
The previous beach buggy had been regularly left outside by refuge staff who never thought someone would want to harm it.
"We can't risk it again," Adams said. "It would be a horrible thing to happen twice."
The Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge group is always looking for new members to help oversee the nearby plover nesting areas and to take part in other refuge activities. Those interested are encouraged to contact Adams at 978-465-5754, ext. 208.
