BERLIN MD BLOG

‘Magical Thinking’ vs. Critical – Route 113 Land Purchase Ordinance

Reading the online version of today’s Daily Times only reinforces my beliefs – that the proposed Ordinance to purchase six acres of land for $828K plus simple interest of 5% for five years (cost to nearly $1 million) is somewhat ludicrous – and only increases the burden of DEBT, current and future, to the taxpaying citizens of Berlin MD.

“Another public hearing is scheduled on plans to spend up to $828,000 to purchase about 6 acres of land at the intersection of Route 113 and Bay Street. The town would buy the land in anticipation of using it as the future site of a new police station and a community center, in separate buildings.  Mayor Gee Williams said the time is right to buy the land. Spending money to construct the buildings, he said, would likely wait until Berlin began receiving its share of tax revenues from legalized gambling at Ocean Downs, in 2011 or later. “We sincerely believe that money will be coming from our share of the slots revenues,” Williams said. “We’ve got years to let that accumulate.”
If a new police headquarters was built, Williams said, the current police building on William Street would likely see service as a substation. “We’d still have a police presence downtown,” Williams said.”

Further critical thought leads me to question – we have DEBT for the land…we have DEBT for the buildings to yet be erected and then additional DEBT for staffing, maintenance of all? (Eventually someone will have to pay staff salaries to mow the lawns, trim the bushes and change the light bulbs.)

Didn’t our Town already scramble to make budget cuts this year (good job all)? Aren’t we in a local building slump…perhaps longer and worse than anticipated? Certainly revenues are falling short…again, worse than anticipated?

We can’t change the world economy…but we can certainly reorder ours by deliberately decreasing any unnecessary, additional responsibilities; two Police Stations for a town the size of Berlin, a new community center when fewer dollars could rehabilitate a facility resting on land already owned?

It’s fine to be optimistic, to indulge in ‘magical thinking’ but please don’t do it with my dollars!

Public Hearing and final vote on this issue – Tonight, Town Hall at 7 pm.

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Town Ordinance 2010-07…certainly worth another look (and post)!

The more I consider (and hear from others), the proposed Town Ordinance 2010-07 coming up for Public Hearing and FINAL VOTE on Monday evening, the more reasons present themselves in the averse column!

I hate unmanageable debt and do my personal best to remain solvent – as I’m sure do most in this town.   Why then are our elected officials so anxious to increase our communal debt?

If, in fact our Town is in such NEED of a new Police facility and Community Center why then have not all options been considered and presented to the folks who will pay – especially those options that would cost us (taxpayers) so much less?

This particular Ordinance proposes that we pay $828,530 dollars for new lands upon which these so-called NEEDS are to be erected.  With the 5% simple interest over 5 years this comes to around $1,000,000.  That’s a whole lot of money = debt – to be paid from future taxpayer contributions!

OUR TOWN ALREADY OWNS CONSIDERABLE UNDEVELOPED LANDS – debt free! What about the old Raynes Sand and Gravel property, already owned by the Town, along Rt. 346?  Or, how about the 14 Town-owned acres, re-discovered during the BEC sale debacle, on Schoolfield Street located on the East side of Town.  A quick look on a tax map shows these properties and others that could be used, as well as even other, perhaps more suitable undeveloped for sale properties at considerably less cost!

Even a simple redesign of the property upon which currently rests the Berlin Electric Company generation plant, could house a generous Police office with parking for our Town vehicles.

Good grief!  This whole idea is worth another (more careful) look before we leap into debt!

I say, let’s stop grumbling, muttering and sighing…phone or email your Town Council District Representative now and/or be present on Monday evening – August 23^rd, 7 pm, Town Hall!

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IMnsHO…

In texting language IMHO stands for ‘in my humble opinion’, however, I find my opinion on the already much talked about ‘land purchase’ not so humble – more incensed perhaps.
My recent awareness of this proposed ‘Town’ land acquisition began on Thursday, August 6th when I received a copy, via email, of the upcoming agenda of the regular Berlin Mayor and Council meeting for August 9th, 2010. Scanning quickly, my attention settled on #6 -

“Introduction of Ordinance 2010-07…An ordinance to authorize and empower the Mayor and Council to purchase real property to be used to house a new police station and a community center and to issue and sell general obligation installation bonds not to exceed $828,530.00. Public hearing to be held on August 23, 2010.”

First thoughts, “WHAT? WHERE? Wow, that’s a lot of money for six acres of undeveloped land! Where’s it going to come from? Perhaps I shouldn’t have paid my property taxes early?” (Further initial reactions not publishable!)
“OK, what to do – first, to find out where this land is located”…prompted a quick email to my 2nd District Councilwoman – Lisa Hall. She replied, “Philips – Rt. 50”.   “That couldn’t be right…if it’s the old Philips Farm, its on Rt. 113 and Bay Street extended.” A correction confirming this location quickly followed.
More tumbled thoughts followed – “wasn’t this land already slated for a medical office facility?“– I had attended the hearings where the Baltimore developer had promised to save a couple of ‘important’ trees during the construction process. Hmm, guess that fell through – tight economy and all.
“Why do we suddenly need a new, Berlin police station?”  Also, recollected a Town meeting some time back where our Chief, Arnold Dowling said we didn’t need the additional space. Now, suddenly we need a considerably larger facility for our still small, population of 3,947 folks? Has crime increased to this extent? This then would mean a larger chunk for Police from our already stretched Annual Budget…? A larger Police presence means more policemen present! Increased taxes?
Then came consideration of a new ‘Community Center’…what’s this about? We already have a multi-purpose community center of sorts…on Flower Street. Again, recollect that during past Mayor Tom Cardinale’s term, there was a push to rehab this facility – for community activities and as a possible site for an Arts & Entertainment Center…lotta’ push but apparently little action – probably due to little money from grants. New street surface, sidewalks and curbing are in place though. Still, if even a portion of the dollars now slated (to be borrowed) for the new land purchase could be funneled to a Flower Street multi-purpose facility rehab there could be a more effective overall Town integration of the East and West sides of Berlin. I’m for that!
Still trying to be fair, I weigh the importance of location. It’s a good corner; it’s an entrance of sorts to the Berlin downtown populated areas. Often, even being  familiar with Berlin’s ‘map’, when driving up from the south, I am oftimes surprised coming upon the traffic light! It’s a busy but poorly marked intersection – which needs some sort of transitional structure showing activity – perhaps a ‘Burger King’?

There could be only one solution to all this thinking; to be present at the scheduled meeting.
(I had missed a few recently; mostly due to weariness. We have a new puppy that awakens between 2 and 3 am; a nighttime ritual of – let’s ‘pee and play’ until 6 am! At six months of age she’s showing no signs of giving up this habit. At 12 months, I will help her!)
Back to the meeting – items #’s 1 through 5 go quickly, then Mayor Williams begins to speak…he talks particularly of the financing; simple interest payment only of 5% for five years, bond issues, delayed payment schedule, and so on. There was even an artful rendition of the planned layout (with buildings) for all to see.

However, my thinking keeps going back to the fact that we’ll (the Town) be in DEBT, further DEBT – for land – without even a brick placed! WHY? Is this commitment action based on need or want?
What will this proposed DEBT do to our property taxes in the future – five years down the road?
If this ordinance is passed, we’ll have committed to an already further unaffordable (for many of us) future IMnsHO!

Since the meeting, I’ve had a couple of people (who weren’t present that evening) ask me about this ‘purchase’…my response to those who are concerned; come to the Public Hearing on this subject on August 23rd! The meeting begins at 7 pm and will be held at Town Hall. Make your feelings known where it counts – and give YOUR humble opinions!

Even in Berlin…darned TICKS!

Though I often like to fantasize that Berlin MD is a very special place and that we are somehow immune – seems that we are plagued by the same problems as others living elsewhere (maybe not Antarctica). TICKS!

Perhaps by retelling my own story it is to be hoped that someone else may avoid the often-devastating, resulting infection – Lyme disease. (For basic information visit this link – http://bit.ly/wWUEd )

One evening a couple of weeks ago while scratching, I noticed a lump and found a tick attached to a very delicate area on my upper body. I carefully removed the little critter and checked to make certain that the head was no longer embedded. I then applied alcohol as a disinfectant. However, by that time a large bright, red area about the size of a half dollar had already surrounded the bite site. By best, good fortune, I was scheduled to see my General Practitioner the very next day for an annual, routine exam. I took myself off to the visit armed with that darned tick (now dead) in a baggie!  Upon viewing the red-ringed bite site…she exclaimed, “You’re on antibiotics for the next 21 days (63 pills)!” UGH! Extra high doses of antibiotics don’t bode well for the average person, sometimes causing annoying side effects! Ever the doubter, trying to avoid this unwelcome treatment; I asked while holding up the baggie, “Don’t you want to test first?” Her reply, “I don’t need to do that – Sue, whether or not you accept treatment is your decision!” Hmm!
So, at this point, I’m in the mid-way through my term of treatment and suffering few if any, side effects (eating lots of yogurt) and most of the redness has subsided.  I’m hopeful for a good result.

While we’ve all heard horror stories of the physical devastation caused by infected ticks apparently there is a 36-hour window within which to begin treatment after being bitten by an infected tick.

Keep your eyes open; check often and if you must go into an overgrown area (or even stand beneath a tree) do a ‘tick check’ afterward and again, OFTEN. I’ve had a number of tick bites over the years – but this one was special!

Beware, even in Berlin, we have those ‘darned ticks’!

“…putting the ‘here’ in there.”

Over the past several weeks I’ve had some minutes to reflect on my continued good fortune to be living in this charming Eastern Shore town.  Life is life and things are pretty good around here – especially now that the gardens are showing green and some of our early crops are showing promise.  (Yesterday’s West Street ‘backyard’ event surely caused even greater joy; first egg was discovered, safely delivered from our new flock of four, 19-week-old Red Star hens.)

But I’m getting off track – recently, while reading an article in this month’s issue of Organic Gardening I saw this comment, ”…it’s the tight knit rural communities that put the ‘here’ in there; that make one place distinct from another and are the essence of regional character.” To my mind this charming thought speaks of this place – Berlin Maryland.  Certainly these days we each have our challenges – personal, economic, environmental even political; no one is untouched by today’s events both near and far.  Yet, I keep discovering an extraordinary strength, a resiliency, and certainly a willingness to pitch in and share among Berlin’s people…my neighbors, my friends.  Thanks to the many area folks who just keep on putting the ‘here’ in there.

To that end, this weekend our town will again throw open the doors to welcome visitors and share our ‘here’.

Spring Arts Night on Friday evening offers a new view of our Town talents – to mention but a few of the many; Pat Henry will ‘Officially’ open his new gallery and I saw that Gail Lewis has a mighty fine show prepared at Water’s Edge.

Saturday features the 3^rd Annual Jazz & Blues Bash with daylong musical events planned for our Historic downtown streets.  Come on down…!

Berlin Home Grown into World Class…

The tiny Eastern Shore town of Berlin Maryland, though remaining ‘cozy’, continues to grow in stature every day…thanks in part to a group of five, active, home town artists.    These talented folks are our friends and neighbors, seen daily, living and working beside us.  We are truly grateful to you all for generously sharing your gifts…

Although always subjective, much real art is recognized through exhibition (and sales)…

This coming weekend, Ann Coates of Bishop’s Stock Fine Art, Fine Craft Gallery in Snow Hill is opening the Spring season with an exhibit of new work by Lynne Lockhart and Kirk McBride.  “During the past year both Lynne and Kirk received national recognition for their work – Lynne’s for her paintings of animals and Kirk for his skill at plein air painting.”  The show opens with a gallery reception on Friday, April 2^nd, 5-8pm.  And, because the opening coincides with ‘First Friday’ down there – others venues shall be open.  Should be fun as the weather forecast is promising a real Spring weekend!

No one can say ‘Berlin Maryland’ without thinking about the art of Patrick Henry – I’d call Pat the Godfather of Painting here in town.  Over the past 20 years, his works – mostly depicting life within and around Berlin – have become classic and are always wonderful!  The huge mural inside the entrance of Atlantic General Hospital is Pat’s work.   And now, with the opening of Pat’s new gallery at 4 Bay Street, (across from Town Hall) his fine art may be seen and enjoyed every day!  We don’t have to wait…

Number four on our list of home grown town artists is Pete Cosby – by day, Pete’s a lawyer with an office in Ocean City, perhaps stealing the odd hour for his craft – but on nights and weekends Pete is often be found with brush in hand.   Pete’s work has come a long way in a short time.  I remember some early works – with an almost tooth-jarring, thalo/viridian green mix grabbing my attention.  His more recent works – marine in theme, are just plain terrific.  Thanks to Gail at the Water’s Edge Gallery, Pete’s newest works are frequently featured – and much loved!

Rounding out the home list is Marge Coyman – although not an native Berliner, Marge has become a strong, participating resident.  As a dedicated art teacher at the Salisbury School to our west, Marge still finds time to paint  (not often enough in my opinion) some wonderful works.  She’s done a couple of pastels – of simple vegetables – that I’ve coveted for a long, long time.  Yesterday, I found that these have been sold – but am promised that more will be available in the near future.  Marge – please do it!  Often Marge’s work may be seen at the j.j.fish gallery and studio on Main Street and at The Globe.

Certainly can’t list Berlin’s artists without mentioning additional locations within our town where their works (and the works of many other inspired folks) are frequently exhibited…

The Globe, 12 Broad Street – Jen’s got events and activities relating to the arts year round.  On Saturday, April 3^rd coinciding with Berlin’s Spring Celebration, the Globe will sponsor an ‘event to benefit cancer treatment for friend and artist, Bill Rolig‘.

Worcester County Arts Council – located on Jefferson Street – exhibits from area artists year round with frequent special receptions.

And finally, a heartfelt thanks to all of the shops and businesses that foster and feature ‘art’ and crafts throughout the year…on Berlin’s regular ‘Second Friday’ walkabouts and on Berlin’s upcoming special Spring Arts night – this year – May 7^th.

Note:  To the many other creative and talented folks who show and sell within this fine town – I apologize for neglecting to mention your name.  However, this one’s for the natives!
(Further…links to venues mentioned may be accessed by clicking on the name.)

‘RO – BO’ calls = SPAM, even in Berlin MD

Regardless of nursing a sore back last evening, I got up to answer the house phone when it rang at 5:50 pm thinking perhaps it was one of the kids or a friend.   No such luck – another ‘ro-bo’ (recorded message) call from a local politician – this time our Congressional Representative Frank Kratovil.   Of course I hung up immediately upon hearing the identity of this ‘spammer’.  I have phoned Mr. Kratovil’s local office in Salisbury on three separate occasions to request that our number be removed from his call list.  On two occasions, upon reaching a live person, I was quickly assured that we would not be receiving further intrusions.  The third time I left a message.

Still feeling cranky about this issue, this morning I decided to poll my buddies at the gym – seems no one listens to these messages.   Many choose to screen their calls and one had their house phone removed entirely to avoid intrusions of this ilk!

And, almost everyone with whom I spoke, feels much the same frustration, that this intrusion continues – politicians and those doing surveys – being exempt from the National ‘Do Not Call’ list.  Furthermore, several agreed that they resent that our tax dollars are being used to support this intrusive behavior.   Representative Kratovil, if you really want to ‘represent’ your constituency – stop the unwanted ro-bo calls.  The old saying, ‘actions speak louder than words’ still has meaning.  This has nothing to do with you personally, your party or political performance…or perhaps it does?  Please remove me!

Note:  My husband went to Mr. Kratovil’s page on facebook this morning to leave a message.  He complained that our request to be removed from the call list was being ignored.  Strange thing – within seconds his complaint was removed from the Representative’s facebook page!

…cruel and unusual punishment!

In order to avoid any future threats of cruel and unusual punishment (only kidding) from Alice and the gang at the Berlin library for my consistently overdue books, I’ve promised to publish this list of stuff (many items of interest for any of us).    OK, here it is –  the 2010 Berlin Library Spring Program guide.  For further info – phone 410-641-0650.   (You may also find a current list under the top tab entitled “Library Events”)

Berlin Library Programs Spring 201

March 30            Story Time 10:30

Stories, rhymes, finger plays, music and crafts! Different stories and activities each week. Geared for children aged 3-5 years.

March 31             Teen Night 6:00

Unlimited computer access, video games, food and more . . . what more? You tell us! For teens aged 12-18, no registration required. Refreshments served.

April 6                Story Time 10:30

Stories, rhymes, finger plays, music and crafts! Different stories and activities each week. Geared for children aged 3-5 years.

April 13            Story Time 10:30

Stories, rhymes, finger plays, music and crafts! Different stories and activities each week. Geared for children aged 3-5 years.

April 16            Play Time Baby 10:30

Foster creativity and confidence with age appropriate toys, games and activities for children aged 0-5. Develop cognitive, physical and social skills while meeting new friends through this wonderful interactive, free play program! Parents and children will be delighted as they build a strong bond that will last a lifetime!

April 16            National Library Week  special event 2:00

Local artist Barbara Schmidt will unveil a mural she created for our children’s area. The mural will feature children enjoying town of Berlin and it’s Friendly Library. Children are invited to come dressed as their favorite story book character. Refreshments will be served.

April 20            Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

April 21            Teen Night 6:00

Unlimited computer access, video games, food and more . . . what more? You tell us! For teens aged 12-18, no registration required. Refreshments served.

April 27            Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

April 29            Fireside Chat 3:00pm

Join staff, friends and fellow book lovers to discuss and recommend your favorite books while enjoying a warm cuppa and light refreshments.

April 30            Baby Yoga 10:30

Developmentally enriched yoga for babies, toddlers and their caregivers.  Under the instruction of a certified instructor, learn the many benefits of yoga wile bonding with your child and meeting new people!

May 4               Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

May 11            Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

May 14            Play Time Baby 10:30

Foster creativity and confidence with age appropriate toys, games and activities for children aged 0-5. Develop cognitive, physical and social skills while meeting new friends through this wonderful interactive, free play program! Parents and children will be delighted as they build a strong bond that will last a lifetime!

May 18            Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

May 19            Teen Night 6:00

Unlimited computer access, video games, food and more . . . what more? You tell us! For teens aged 12-18, no registration required. Refreshments served.

May 25            Laptime 10:30

All children aged 2 and under are invited to visit the Berlin Library to enjoy our special lap time program with their parents or caregivers. Children will be introduced to songs, games, finger plays and movement activities, while parents will learn new and fun ways to communicate with their toddlers to help them grow.

May 27            Fireside Chat 3:00pm

Join staff, friends and fellow book lovers to discuss and recommend your favorite books while enjoying a warm cuppa and light refreshments.

June 11            Play Time Baby 10:30

Foster creativity and confidence with age appropriate toys, games and activities for children aged 0-5. Develop cognitive, physical and social skills while meeting new friends through this wonderful interactive, free play program! Parents and children will be delighted as they build a strong bond that will last a lifetime!

…Let me count the ways”

I think the poem goes…”How do I love thee – let me count the ways” – or something like that.  Last evening at the regular meeting of the Berlin Maryland Town Council, the newest object of my affection was served alongside the usual, often dry, but necessary, rhetoric.

Upon entering the nearly full, Town Hall Council Chamber, I was handed a container of the new “Official Berlin MD Dessert”.   And, shortly thereafter, we listened to a lovely presentation about the now former, famed, Berlin area, Harrison Orchards by Sandra Dewey (nee Harrison). Continuing, amid the ‘clatter’ of busy utensils, our Mayor, Gee Williams and the Council members unanimously decreed that the ‘Peach Dumpling’ would become our Town’s official dessert – beautifully baked, flakey, tender pastry filled with flavorful peaches topped with a dollop of flavored whipped cream!  What fun and how delicious!

For now though – we’ll have to wait a bit for a second (and third….) helping. Still busy with remodeling within the Main Street location formerly known as “The Pink Box”, the new bakery is not yet open to the public.  Soon, I hope – be assured, it’s worth the wait.  This offering has me waxing poetic!

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Something ‘peachy’ to dispell winter’s gloom…?

Armed with a bit of ‘mad money’ and feeling the need for some ‘retail therapy’, I ventured downtown to our Historic Berlin MD Main Street shopping district on Tuesday.  If you remember, it was a rather gray day outdoors with the weather forecast calling for yet another late winter event – however brief!  So, despite my ongoing, ‘careful spending’ resolve I went in search of something new – something fresh.  First stop was my favorite ‘feel good’ place – Victorian Charm, where, when greeted by Deb, I leaned first, that a lot of new ‘stuff’ was due in any day moreover that Deb’s favorite little canine guy, Josh, was ailing.  Seems that the years have caught up to even this wonderful Berlin shop icon.  Locals and visitors alike always look for ‘that doggie in the window’.  In the past, having worked at Deb’s, I remember that on many days the first question posed by customers was, “Where’s Josh?” Deb, please know that we all love you and Josh and hope that he rallies – if even for a brief time.  Our thoughts are with you.

Yet, still seeking that ‘something new’ I then wandered up to Bruder Hill – another fashion place.  Alas, finding the door locked. I walked back to Main Street and caught sight of  our Berlin MD Business representative, Michael Day, standing on the corner talking with Ann Coates, owner of Snow Hill’s famed Bishop’s Stock Fine Art and Fine Craft.  Seems Ann was in town for an appointment.  I joined them and we commented on the shops I’d found closed.  It’s understandable though – definitely a good time for shop owners to take a break, as traffic is always light early in the week, especially this time of the year.

Continuing to chat with Michael I learned that there will be a surprise ‘guest’ at the regular Berlin Mayor and Council meeting on Monday evening – something  ‘peachy’, being baked up by the women of the soon to be open – newest incarnation of our downtown bakery spot.  Even heard the words ‘samples for all’ mentioned.  Wow – even not yet knowing the agenda – I surely won’t miss this meeting!

Later, upon returning home I thought about my little trip out – and despite still having cash in hand, I felt somehow fulfilled– once again experiencing the many wonderful people, places and things I love about this town.

To partake of the surprise ‘guest’ visit, to the Berlin Mayor and Council meeting on Monday (8 March 2010) – Town Hall, 7 pm.