Gay Marriage Bill (HB 438) Passes the House

A big thanks to all those "Jewel" blog readers who wrote their delegates to support HB 438.  Unfortunately our local delegates, once again, demonstrated their lack of respect and inclusion for all their constituents regardless of race, color, religion and or sexual orientation.  This bill passed because of your efforts as well as across the aisle compromise within the Maryland House of Delegates, sans Jacobs, Smigiel and Hershey, and will move to the Senate and then to the Governor's desk. It is expected that opponents such as Delegates Jacobs, Smigiel and Hershey will attempt to derail this proposed legislation with a public referendum this coming election day. With its proposed implementation in January 2013, Maryland will be able to stand proud and strong as a state that respects all its residents and for this reason shall reap the benefits of more jobs, tourism and money in our State coffers.

Your Voice Makes a Difference

The time has come to grab your tablets, smartphones or one of many beautiful Betterton note cards and tell our State House Delegates to vote yes on HB 438. This past Friday, HB 438, Maryland’s bill to achieve marriage equality for gay and lesbian couples, had a hearing in the House Judiciary and Health & Government Operations Committees. It is expected that the full House of Delegates will be considering this bill very shortly, so your comments are needed ASAP.

Why do gay and lesbian couples want to get married?
Marriage matters to gay people in similar ways that it matters to everyone. Gay and lesbian couples want to get married to make a lifetime commitment to the person they love and to protect their families. Marriage says, “We are family” in a way that no other word does. Marriage is one of the few times where people make a public promise of love and responsibility for each other and ask our friends and family to hold us accountable.
Gay and lesbian couples may seem different from straight couples, but we share similar values - like the importance of family and helping out our neighbors; worries - like making ends meet or the possibility of losing a job; and hopes and dreams - like finding that special someone to grow old with, and standing in front of friends and family to make a lifetime commitment.

Does this change the definition of marriage?
No. Allowing committed gay and lesbian couples to get married does not change the meaning of marriage. It simply allows same-sex couples to marry the person they love, to establish and protect a family, and to make a lifetime commitment in the same way other couples are able to.





What defines a marriage is love and commitment, and the ability to protect your family.
It’s as basic as the Golden Rule. Treating others as one would want to be treated includes allowing marriage for gay couples who are truly committed to each other. Most straight couples would never want someone telling them they couldn’t marry, and when they think about it, many say they wouldn’t want to deny that for anyone else.

How would gay and lesbian couples marry?
All couples who marry in the United States must get a license for a civil marriage, usually at a courthouse or city hall. These civil marriages would also be available to same-sex couples. Some couples also choose to marry in a religious setting if permitted by their religious institution.

Does civil marriage for gay and lesbian couples affect churches or other religious institutions? What if my religion opposes same-sex relationships?
Civil marriage for gay couples does not affect religious marriages, religious institutions or clergy in any way. No religion would be forced to marry same-sex couples, or recognize same-sex marriages within the context of their religious beliefs.

Aren't there other alternatives to marriage for gay couples?
There have been attempts to create marriage-like relationship systems, but they don’t provide the same security and protections. In many states, same-sex couples that have domestic partnerships have been barred from a dying partner’s bedside, and denied the ability to say goodbye to the person they love. That just doesn’t happen when you’re married. Civil unions and domestic partnerships create a second-class status that often does not work in emergency situations when people need it most. In hospital emergency rooms, funeral homes, and when discussing benefits with employers, everyone understands the protections and responsibilities that marriage provides.

This information and more can be found at Equality Maryland or by calling (410) 685-6567.

Our Delegates can be contacted directly at the following numbers:

Delegate Mike Smigiel

Phone: (410 841-3555

Fax: (410) 841-3434

Delegate Stephen Hershey 

Phone:(410) 841-3543 

Fax: (410) 841-3098

Delegate Jay Jacobs

Phone: (410) 841-3449

Fax: (410) 841-3093

Jay Jacobs

Art Hershey

Mike Smigiel

The Great Debate - Betterton Town Council and Mayoral Candidates Speak to the People

The B-Blogger has recently learned from good sources, that once again Judy Kohl is working her magic and there will be a legitimate forum for all Betterton candidates to share the specifics of their vision for this wonderful community. Mark your calendars for Monday Sept 27th, more details to come. Oh, don't forget to wish Judy a Happy Birthday! It is her 40th!

It is up to you to assure your presence whether you are a registered voter or a part-time resident at this event! It's the B-Blogger's belief that only those candidates who show up and speak to their views deserve consideration for a vote. What do you think?

The Blogger has also learned that Council is trying to enhance their communications and your input is needed. Please provide the Town office with your email address so that you can receive minutes and other important information.

Time is Running Short!

If you are planning to run for Betterton City Council or Mayor, time is running short. Judy Kohl has said that all potential candidates need all of their paperwork into the Town office no later than 11:30 AM on September 1. The B-blogger has it from some very reliable sources that all present elected officials for whom their term expires will be running to maintain their positions on Betterton's City Council. The real question is do you care? Can you name all present sitting members of Betterton's City Council? Do you know their positions on present issues and their vision for Betterton in the future? Do you know which member of Council has repeatedly been sighted with a wardrobe malfunction? (Hint: it is not the Mayor).

The B-blogger is first to admit a huge deficit in understanding current Council member's vision for the future? I do want to know whether candidates have thought about this and what that vision entails. Sure everyone wants reduced taxes and more service, but get real people ! How is Betterton going to capitalize on planned expansion of Aberdeen? What type of business can be attracted to the Jewel that will create sustainability? Imagine a Betterton of the future, where Kent County residents and tenants can grab a quick breakfast before boarding an eco-friendly high speed ferry to Aberdeen, Wilmington, and Baltimore .

The B-Blogger suggests that we create our own League of Women Voters to hold at least one candidate debate to hear their plans if elected. Further, I would suggest that our panel of interviewers be Judy Kohl, Joanne Jewett and Mare Smith. Additionally, if any candidate would like to post their vision on the Betterton Blog just provide it directly to Councilman Zellers and he will get it to the B-Blogger. If nothing else, candidates should declare their goals with a "Post" below.

Elections are October 2nd at Town Hall, so make sure you register ASAP and cast your ballot for the future of this town, I know I will.

Got Gas? Where?

No the B-blogger hasn't lost his mind nor am I looking for comments such as "my mother-in-law's three bean salad", or "my neighbor's dairy cows." Instead, this post is for you to use to post where you are getting the best gasoline prices. In case you weren't aware price per gallon can vary as much as 10-12 cents/gallon on the Chestertown - Middletown corridor. The B-blogger thinks today that Molly's Mart gas at 2.59/gallon is your best bet. So bloggers let us see your recommendations as the days proceed. Just post a recommendation.

Grace and Elegance

Betterton Day evening would not be the same without the annual Clark party. It is no lie when we say that Betterton has its own Grace Kelly and that indeed is Ginna Clark. A lady who exudes warmth and charm in everything she does and assures these traits are extended to her family. Food, friends and neighbors were abundant at her cottage overlooking the mouth of the Sassafras. Guests were from near and far including former Bettertonian Millie Massey. She along with Tom Hollidge will go down in the books for being tops in gathering Cow Plop donors. Miss Millie is up for the week from Mars Hill, NC and residing with Linda Hall and the Bayside Docs. Oh! Did I forget to mention the party's great Margueritas and shrimp! Ginna and her family were certainly helping out the LA. economy with those large crustaceans, and I can guarantee you there was no oil on these giants.

History in the Making!

On the eve of Betterton Day some fifteen members of the Chestertown Havurah gathered at Bayside Docs Malcolm and Mark's home to celebrate the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath. The service began with a candle lighting performed by Dr. Mark's mother Shirley. To the B-Blogger's knowledge this is the first time that any Jewish religious service has ever been held in B-Town. Approximately fifteen congregants joined in in the sunset service, including first timer Phyllis of Phyllis and Dave from the Rigby Condos. The service was led by the Havurah's cantor Gary Schiff and followed by an Oneg Shabbat, a welcoming of the Sabbath with blessings of the wine and bread (Challah)accompanied by delicious desserts and beverage provided by those congregants in attendance. The blessing of the wine was performed by cantor Schiff and that of the Challah by father and son, Barry and Mark.

The B-Blogger has also learned that other history is in the making with the decision by Bob Thomas, that hulk of a husband to Lady Jeanette, to create a photographic essay of today's homes in Betterton and their owners and families. That's right you may soon here a "knock,knock" at your door with a request from Bob to gather in front of your home for a photo or two. In discussion with the B-Blogger , Bob explained he wants to give back to the town he loves with this historical collection so that our children, their children and future residents will all have a visual of B-Town at the start of the 21st century. The B-Blogger believes that this special collection deserves a place in our soon to be community center.

Last but not least, thanks to Judy Kohl, our blog got mention in Judy's wonderful column in the Kent County News. Who knows we may make it to CNN or Fox News, did I hear someone say Oprah?

Parties are a Poppin

As the Betterton Blogger had predicted the afternoon soiree (July 17th) hosted by Dames Pauline and Diane was a total success. However, what really impressed the B-Blogger was the way the neighborhood pitched in to set up tables, prepare some fabulous food and bring the party to a close with clean-up. B-town residents should be proud of this community spirit, now if we could only extend it to our Town Council.

The B-Blogger recently learned that the Dames have an invite list of over 300 people and crowd estimates had the final tally as close to 150. While most friends and neighbors departed at sunset, the Duke aka Dr. Mel, was seen burning the candle on Pauline and Diane's porch well into the night, he has such a gift for gab. Let's not forget the bonnets, while Lady Hollidge did not sport one of her beauties, there was a clear winner, of course it had to have come from Italy and while not PRADA, was both functional and fashionable. Do you know who wore this fabulous adornment? Check out the picture!

While Chelsea's wedding is taking center stage, the B-Blogger believes that this weekend's pool and barbecue at the home of the Bayside Doc's, Malcolm and Mark, will clearly make it to second place. Guests are expected from both North and South as well as the "hood." Rumors are that while Chelsea will be chasing people away the Docs will welcome all.

The B-Blogger's suspicions turned out to be true as well as some magnificent weather. The trio of Jean S., Wendy C and Barbara P. brought a handmade fruit salad that could feed 200. Other Bettertonians and outside guests stoked the food table with delicious desserts and salads. The Bayside Docs grilled up some burgers that garnered some unbelievable raves. Perhaps they should take over the site of Five Rivers Cafe? Truth be told the burgers were cooked by their Philadelphia friend Coop. There was considerable concern voiced by attendees over the fact that sister Hilary and brother-in- law Jon could not be present. After-all who was going to prepare the party's signature dish of Asian Salad? By the sunset there was pretty unanimous agreement that the Docs themselves seem to pull it all off despite the void created by Hilary and Jon.

Mama Shirley, another staple at this event was indeed present and while she didn't make her fabulous blueberry cheese cake, she kept very busy assuring all had name tags, including the Blogger. As the sun began to descend those present choired up with a happy birthday song as a surprise to Lady Hollidge and Doc Malcolm's boyhood friend Lew. It appears that Lew's birthday was October but the Docs got stuck on AMTRAK and never made it to the real event.

As the sun sets this evening its clearly time for the B-Blogger to close this post and await your comments. Remember it is you who will make this blog successful!

The Sun Sets With Sorrow on the Jewel

As the sun lowered its head the other evening it was paying respects to Mildred Soule, mother and grandmother to the Coslett Family. Mildred or "MeMA" as called by her grandchildren and great grandchildren was a lady of elegance, intelligence and style. She was a woman of goals and determination and joined the ranks of Rosa Alexander, Shirley Wohl Kram, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Sanda Day O'Connor in choosing a career in law despite the tremendous pressures of the day for women to stick to teaching and or nursing.

Mildred was a resident of Heron Point where up until a few weeks ago she was getting into her car to run errands, meet friends or give her opinion to those in need. The Betterton Blogger was fortunate enough to have spent time with this wonderful lady at Christmas dinner where she actively engaged in discussion and thought. I along with my readers extend our condolences to Wendy and her brother Jay along with their families. Mildred is survived by her brother.

Betterton Blog readers and followers are encouraged to leave their thoughts and prayers for Wendy, Jay and their families as "comments" to this post. Let us all join in celebrating her life as she joins the supreme court of the Heavens above.

When is Enough, Enough?

Did anyone see the Inquirer this week and the story about 85 Chihuahuas? The news reads:

"The discovery of two dead dogs complicates the legal case involving the hoarding of 85 live chihuahuas and chihuahua mixes at a South Philadelphia home.

Investigators are trying to determine if the dogs died of natural causes. If neglect or abuse was involved, the homeowner could face misdemeanor charges, according to Liz Williamson, spokeswoman for the Pennsylvania SPCA.

For each of the 85 living dogs, and two cats also found, a summary offense of unsanitary confinement could be charged, with a possible 90 days in jail and a $750 fine, Williamson said.

Lack of veterinary care, another potential charge for each dog, carries similar possible consequences, she said."

Of course this evokes sadness and dismay, but the real question is how many pets are too many whether they be dogs, guinea pigs, pot-bellied pigs and or our beloved cats. The research shows that many of the people that go overboard have really big hearts but they can't balance those hearts with their pocketbooks nor true nature of the animals being horded.

So what is your number and how should Betterton address this issue?

The Rain is Coming!

The little town of Betterton, on Maryland's Eastern Shore, is a wonderful mix of summer residents and year rounders who herald from Southeastern Pennsylvania and the Baltimore Washington area. While the sun is out and the views of the Chesapeake Bay and Sassafras river spectacular, the land is begging for the promised rain. Rain or not this hamlet is a little known gem that had its hay day in the 50's and is waiting for its re-emergence as a prime place to live and enjoy life. Stay tuned for the comings and goings of its politics, events, and people and feel free to share stories, comments and key events.



With our long time Mayor rumored to be stepping down, who will belly up to the Bar, something Betterton doesn't have, to run in the fall elections? We do, however, have a great site with direct views of the beach and Bay for an entrepreneurial restaurateur. The Betterton Blogger wants your rumors and thoughts. Need a cat or kitten, Betterton has the largest available population of these creatures in Kent County, ask any resident. Need some extra money, don't miss Betterton Day, the first Saturday in August and take your chances with Cow Plop Bingo while enjoying a parade, music, crab cakes and beer.



What would you think of a hydrofoil between Philadelphia, Betterton and Baltimore? A bit much, well how about Megabus or Bolt Bus service that stops in Chestertown?