Time to Write Our Legislators - Jacobs, Smigiel, Pipkin & Hershey

Equality Maryland 

Monday night, Governor O’Malley introduced the Civil Marriage Protection Act. This bill would provide same-sex couples in Maryland the freedom to marry while preserving the religious freedom of all churches and places of worship in the state.

On Tuesday morning, the Governor invited clergy, advocates, legislators and gay and lesbian couples to join him for breakfast at the mansion (Government House). I was honored to stand before this distinguished group of people to thank the Governor for his leadership and pledge Equality Maryland’s commitment to help him pass this bill. I thanked him on behalf of all of you—the thousands of individuals and families Equality Maryland is humbled to fight for. The breakfast was followed by a press conference on the steps of the mansion. If you haven’t seen the video, you can view it here. I was so proud to bear witness to this moment that all of us, including you, worked so hard over the course of many years to make happen.

Now, let me tell you about what is happening next week. The Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee will hold a hearing on Tuesday. We are waiting for a House hearing date, so stay tuned for that. This bill cannot pass without all of you raising your voices and demanding equality for our families. There are several things you can do—help us call voters in key districts, attend Lobby Day or make a contribution to help us continue our work.

Thanks to all of you for being engaged and, as always, do not hesitate to contact me with questions, concerns, compliments or suggestions!

Rumors have it that Wendy and Barbara are already discussing their Wedding Planning and Consultation business- Bringing Jobs and Business to Betterton.

Wicked Winds of Winter

I'm looking out my window and watching the gentle waves of the Chesapeake Bay as they march up the Sassafras River.  If I didn't know any better, I would think this is early November or April as the sun is out, a coat is needed and there isn't a remnant of snow.  Alas it is the middle of January and Betterton has seen barely a wisp of white.  Don't misunderstand me as I'm more than happy that I haven't yet had to lift a shovel nor skid on ice, but it is a true rarity to get this far along into winter without a hint of snow.  This being said we haven't been spared the winter winds and for those who have flown the northern coop, let it be known that we have had our share of cold and strong winds toppling trees and tossing anything loose across the ground.

While the local population has dwindled from its summer highs, neighbors still abound and Thursday nights at the Sunset Grille have really flourished with residents and friends gathering for gossip, news and good food beginning at 6 PM.  If you've got a Thursday evening free be sure to pop in as it is great to commingle with neighbors from both sides of Main Street.

Speaking of news, for those who haven't dipped their toes in the Jewel lately, I'm happy to report that recent visits to the hospital by Wendy Coslett and John McDougall have all ended well.  Please feel free to wish them rapid recovery as a post below.

While crime is still minimal, the opportunity to be part of a Town Watch team still exists, just check the link to the town's website or contact Annette.  Rumors are running that Marzella's will soon be offering hot coffee and breakfast snacks, so if it does you'll be able to avoid those gas guzzling trips for a table at Play It Again Sam's, although the B-Blogger must state that this is a favorite stop on Friday mornings.  Jean McDougall is in love with their smoked salmon on a toasted bagel.  Jean says to always ask for Doris to make it, she is the best and her husband heralds from the Jewel.