Quantcast
Channel: Coastal Point - Local News
Viewing all 3937 articles
Browse latest View live

BREAKING NEWS: Police investigating bomb threat at Long Neck Elementary

0
0

The Delaware State Police on Thursday afternoon were investigating a bomb threat that was called into the Long Neck Elementary School at 26064 School Lane this afternoon.

According to the DSP, the incident occurred around 12:46 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 5, when a robotic-style or computer-generated voice phone call was received in the school's main office, stating there was an unknown type of device in the school.

Police said the school was placed on a low-level lockdown, and an administrative search was conducted by school administration and troopers. Nothing out-of-the-ordinary or suspicious was located, they said, and staff and students resumed their daily activities around 1:50 p.m.

No suspects or leads have been established in this case, the DSP reported. If anyone has any information in reference to the incident, they are being asked to contact Troop 4 Youth Aid Division at (?302) 856-5850?. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at ?1-800-TIP-3333?, via the internet at www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com, or by sending an anonymous tip by text to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword "DSP."


Rehoboth man arrested after pursuit

0
0

Timothy J. DrabicTimothy J. DrabicA Rehoboth Beach man was arrested last week following a high-speed pursuit involving seven law-enforcement agencies.

According to police, around 4:30 a.m. on Dec. 30, a black SUV was observed traveling northbound in the southbound lane of Coastal Highway in Ocean City, Md. It was reported that the SUV was driving at speeds up to 100 mph.

“This individual placed a lot of people in danger. In particular, one Ocean City officer that, apparently, he swerved toward that officer and came very close to striking their marked police car at a very high rate of speed,” said Ocean View Police Chief Ken McLaughlin. “Fortunately, nobody was hurt there, and we’re glad we were able to take him in without any injuries.”

Ocean City Police officers initiated a pursuit and chased the vehicle northbound into Delaware. The SUV, operated by Timothy J. Drabic, 54, of Rehoboth Beach, traveled north on coastal highway to Bethany Beach, and then turned west on Atlantic Avenue (Route 26), headed into Ocean View.

Delaware law-enforcement officials were alerted to the pursuit via Sussex County dispatch, as OCPD officers discontinued their pursuit shortly after crossing the state line into Delaware.

McLaughlin said the Ocean City, Fenwick Island, South Bethany, Bethany Beach, Ocean View and Dagsboro police departments, as well as Delaware State Police, all participated in the pursuit.

McLaughlin said working with other area law-enforcement agencies is key in policing.

“When we have a pursuit like that — any pursuit, realistically — we’re going through three or four or five jurisdictions in a matter of moments.”

The Ocean View officers who were on duty at the time observed Drabic traveling westbound on Route 26 — which has a 35-40 mph speed limit — at speeds topping 85 mph.

“In speaking with the officers, this gentleman we were pursuing was traveling at a very, very high rate of speed. He, without a doubt, was creating a hazard to himself and to the officers and anyone else on the roadway,” said McLaughlin. “Thank God nobody got hurt and he was taken into custody without anyone being injured. All in all, it was a successful pursuit.”

As one OVPD officer pursued the vehicle, a second was able to intercept the pursuit at Armory and Vines Creek roads in Dagsboro. The second officer deployed Stop Sticks (tire-deflation devices) in the SUV’s path, successfully deflating the vehicle’s front left tire. The SUV stopped on Clayton Street in Dagsboro, where Ocean View officers, assisted by several Delaware State Police troopers, took the driver into custody.

“Pursuits, by their nature, are inherently dangerous,” said McLaughlin. “We don’t like them. We hate pursuits just because they are so dangerous. We’re fortunate in this particular area that we don’t have a high frequency of police pursuits.”

McLaughlin said it is imperative to keep officers safe during such a pursuit, which is done through training and equipment.

“We provide our officers with good solid training and equipment. The vehicles we’re operating are not standard civilian vehicles that we slapped a light bar and some decals on. These are pursuit-rated vehicles that are specifically designed to perform well in those conditions.”

Ocean View police charged Drabic, 54, of Rehoboth Beach with DUI, Disregarding a Police Officers Signal to Stop and Driving a Vehicle at Unreasonable or Imprudent Speeds.

Drabic was released on $2,500.50 unsecured bail pending a preliminary hearing, which was set for Jan. 5 (after Coastal Point press time) in the Court of Common Pleas.

“He’s going to have to answer for his actions and, hopefully, he’ll be held accountable. And, subsequently, hopefully, this serves as a deterrent for others that may be considering driving and fleeing from the police.”

Honored a lifetime later: Civil War veterans receive tribute

0
0

Coastal Point • Submitted: Glenn Layton kneels at the grave of a distant cousin, William Layton.Coastal Point • Submitted: Glenn Layton kneels at the grave of a distant cousin, William Layton.Thousands of soldiers died in the Civil War. But those who survived also hold a special place in history. Now, the Sons of the Union Veterans of the Civil War hope to recognize the gravesites of every Civil War veteran buried in Delaware.

Nearly two years into their mission, the Lt. Col. David L. Stricker Camp #64 has placed nearly 200 small, star-shaped markers at veteran graves.

“We’re trying to identify every soldier in the state that fought for the state of Delaware in that war but does not have any recognition on their stone,” said volunteer Dan Cowgill. “When we find them, we place a marker.”

This November, they honored two veterans at Red Men’s Cemetery in Selbyville: William Layton (1841-1920) and Robert B. Carey (1829-1902). Both men were buried alongside their wives.

Two of Carey’s great-great-grandchildren stood proudly at his grave on Nov. 12: Bob Brines of Clarksville and Jane Colombo of Clayton.

“I remembered my grandfather talking about him,” Brines said of Robert B. Carey.

Colombo brought her children, Vincent “Vinnie” Colombo of Port Penn, and his daughters, Gianna and Ella, and Lisa Porrini of Newark, and her grandsons, Joshua, Jacob and Joseph.

“It’s definitely an honor because, obviously, we did not know Robert Carey. He was gone before any of us were born,” said Porrini. “It’s definitely an honor to place a plaque.”

Even the youngest family members (four-times- and five-times-great-grandchildren) were excited to see their relatives be honored for their place in such a major part of United States history.

Although Glenn Layton, a Stricker Camp co-founder, was personally honored to see the star-shaped flag holder installed at the grave of his distant cousin the late William Layton, he said he delights in all dedications.

“It’s just as exciting to put them on other people’s [graves]. When we did the Careys, it’s just as rewarding for me to see it happen,” Layton said. “I got a phone call last night from a lady that was 99 years old. … She wants to put a marker on her great-grandfather’s grave. It’s those kinds of things that make it worthwhile.”

Layton is still looking for more of his own ancestors’ graves, in multiple states.

Deep underground and deep in the annals of history, there are likely another several dozen veterans buried in the Selbyville cemetery alone, Cowgill said.

Internet research has helped the Stricker mission, especially with access to records of where soldiers mustered in, their pension, spouse and death information.

They’re working one cemetery at a time, to find all potential veterans and then research if those are the actual Union soldiers. They also do individual grave markers by request. People can either purchase a $15 marker themselves or request a donation.

The Stricker Camp also accepts donations from anyone wishing to fund the memorials for long-dead veterans.

“We hope people want to mark their relatives’ grave. If they donate, fine. If not, that’s alright as well,” Cowgill said. “We’ll still do it, because it’s an honor for us to do it.”

To volunteer or contribute, contact Glenn Layton or Dan Cowgill at DESoldierGraves@yahoo.com or StrickerCamp64_SUVCW@yahoo.com, or go to www.facebook.com/strickersuvcw for additional information. The group is based in Camden-Wyoming.

“If you have a Civil War soldier you know that’s buried somewhere, and you want to mark him, contact us,” Cowgill encouraged.

“Glenn has been saving a handful of dirt from every grave where we place a marker — and our intent is to plant a tree dedicated to all of the vets we locate using the dirt during planting,” Cowgill added.

There are still many markers to go. They said they also plan to notify and coordinate with the Delaware Sons of Confederate Veterans for graves that should be marked with the South’s Iron Cross instead.

Agenda – January 6, 2016

0
0

Bethany Beach

• The Bethany Beach Charter & Ordinance Review Committee (CORC) will meet on Monday, Jan. 9, at 10 a.m. at town hall. The agenda for the meeting includes discussion of possible revisions to Chapter 530, Signs, of the town code; and discussion of remainder of Part I of the town code.

• Bethany Beach Town Hall will be closed on Monday, Jan. 16, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• The Bethany Beach Town Council will hold its next regular meeting on Friday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at town hall.

• The Bethany Beach Planning Commission will hold its next meeting on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m. at town hall.

• The Bethany Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 10 a.m. at town hall to consider an application for a variance, filed by property owner John H. Burbage Jr., for Block 105, Lot 7, at 107 Garfield Parkway, in the C-1 Commercial Zoning District (Fish Tales) seeking a variance from Chapter 425, Article XV, Off-Street Parking & Loading, Section 425-87 (B), to remove the requirement for off-street loading space for new construction or enlargement of the existing building. The application may be inspected in the office of the building inspector during regular business hours.

• The Bethany Beach Budget & Finance Committee will meet on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 10 a.m. at town hall.

• The Town of Bethany Beach’s recent survey regarding specific design elements for the proposed “Central Park” has been completed and tabulated. To see the results, visit http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/DocumentCenter/View/2398. To see the survey as presented, including illustrations, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Preview/?sm=BMy_2BRLkGbCwB4ov3Q9FwB4K2vPI.... (No further survey responses are being accepted.)

The public can view on the Town website the presentation by Oasis Design Group to the Bethany Beach Town Council, soliciting input for preliminary concept development for the features and organization of “Central Park,” at the intersection of Routes 1 and 26. The URLs for the four presentation segments are http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/mediacenter.aspx?VID=30 (and 31, 32 and 33).

• Bethany Beach’s pay-to-park season ended Sept. 15 and will return on May 15, 2017.

• Prohibitions on dogs on the beach and boardwalk in Bethany Beach ended on Sept. 30 and will resume on May 15, 2017.

• The regular meetings of the Bethany Beach Town Council and Planning Commission are now being broadcast, with video, over the Internet via the Town’s website at www.townofbethanybeach.com, under Live-Audio Broadcasts. Both meetings are at town hall.

South Bethany

• The town council will meet Friday, Jan. 6, at 3 p.m. to consider Kercher Engineering’s proposal to prepare the Scope of Work for the FY 2017 Street Paving Project, either on a time-and-materials basis or at a fixed cost of $3,300.

• Yard waste is picked up biweekly, continuing on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

• Recycling is collected biweekly, continuing on Friday, Jan. 20.

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Friday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m.

• Prohibitions on dogs on the beach ended Oct. 15 and will resume May 15, 2017.

• The Town of South Bethany’s website is located at www.southbethany.org.

Fenwick Island

• The Charter & Ordinance Committee will meet Friday, Jan. 6, at 9:30 a.m.

• The Planning Commission will meet Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 1 p.m.

• The Environmental Committee will meet Thursday, Jan. 12, at 2:30 p.m.

• Town Hall will be closed Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Friday, Jan 27, at 3:30 p.m.

• The Fenwick Island town website is located at www.fenwickisland.delaware.gov. The Town of Fenwick Island is also now on Twitter, at https://twitter.com/IslandFenwick or @IslandFenwick.

Ocean View

• The Town of Ocean View’s Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/townofoceanview.

• The Ocean View town website is located at www.oceanviewde.com.

Millville

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m. starting with a public hearing to consider the final site plan submitted by Millville Town Center LLC, for Millville By the Sea’s Sea Star Village, for Section 2. The preliminary plan was approved for the entire Sea Star Village; this submittal is the final plan for Section 2 only, with nine cottage lots and nine perimeter lots, for a total of 18 lots.

• The town council’s next workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m.

• The Millville town website is located at www.millville.delaware.gov.

Millsboro

• The Millsboro town website is located at www.millsboro.org.

Dagsboro

• Town Hall will be closed Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• Historic Prince George’s Chapel will host the Olde Christmas Musical Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 8, at 1:30 p.m. Admission is free, but donations will be taken, to benefit chapel maintenance.

• The Dagsboro Planning & Zoning Commission will meet Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 6 p.m., at Bethel U.M. Church.

• The Dagsboro Town Council’s next regular meeting will be Monday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m., at Bethel U.M. Church.

• There was no town council election on Dec. 3. The seats up for election will be filled by incumbents Norwood Truitt and William Chandler. Brian Baull has been selected as the town’s new mayor.

• The Town of Dagsboro website is at www.townofdagsboro.com.

Frankford

• Curbside recycling is picked up every other Tuesday, continuing Jan. 10.

• The Town of Frankford website is located at www.frankfordde.us.

Selbyville

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Monday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m.

• Curbside recycling is collected every other Wednesday, continuing Jan. 18.

• Bulk trash is collected on the first Wednesday of each month. Households may put out one bulk item, such as a television, each month.

• The Town website is at www.TownOfSelbyville.com.

Indian River School District

• The IRSD Board of Education will hold a special meeting Monday, Jan. 9, at 6 p.m. at Indian River High School. The meeting’s agenda includes the referendum, administrative positions and an executive session for items related to personnel, litigation, negotiations or student hearings.

• Schools will be closed on Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and on Jan. 27 for a staff learning day.

• The IRSD Board of Education will meet next on Monday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. Indian River High School.

• The second marking period ends Jan. 26. Report cards will be issued on Friday, Feb. 3.

• The district will host a public referendum on Thursday, March 2, to address a current-expense issue with a proposed 49-cent increase per $100 of assessed property value. The weather date is March 16. The Nov. 22 public referendum was defeated by a margin of 20 votes among more than 6,000 cast.

• The Indian River School District’s Special Education Task Force will host parent focus group meetings on Wednesdays, Feb. 8, 2017, at Georgetown Middle School; and March 22, 2017, at Millsboro Middle School. All of the meetings are at 6 p.m.

• The school district website is www.irsd.net.

• The district website is at www.irsd.net.

Sussex County

• Agendas, minutes and audio, as well as live streaming of all County meetings, may be found online at www.sussexcountyde.gov.

County recognizes Lank for decades of service

0
0

Coastal Point • Maria Counts Sussex County Planning & Zoning Director Lawrence Lank, center, receives recognition from Sussex County Council members and employees for his service to the County. Lank was the longest-serving employee in Sussex County history, starting his tenure in 1969 as a map draftsman. He assumed the director position in 1985.Coastal Point • Maria Counts Sussex County Planning & Zoning Director Lawrence Lank, center, receives recognition from Sussex County Council members and employees for his service to the County. Lank was the longest-serving employee in Sussex County history, starting his tenure in 1969 as a map draftsman. He assumed the director position in 1985.After 47 years of service to Sussex County government, Planning & Zoning Director Lawrence Lank will retire on Jan. 6.

The longest-serving County employee in its history, Lank was hired Oct. 14, 1969, as a map draftsman. He then went on to work as a planning tech from 1977 until January 1985, when he became the active director. In April of that year, he took over as permanent Planning & Zoning director.

“We’re certainly sad to see him go and wish him all the best on his next chapter,” said County Administrator Todd Lawson.

During its Jan. 3 meeting, Sussex County council members took the time to recognize Lank for his service and say a few words.

“Lawrence has been a good person to this County,” said Council President Michael Vincent. “He has knowledge that will never ever, ever be duplicated… We’re going to miss you, truly.”

“I very much appreciated his help and support. He always gave me a straight answer,” said Councilman George Cole. “Thank you, Lawrence, for all of your good, hard work.”

Councilman Rob Arlett, who said he’s only known Lank for the two years he’s served on council, said Lank is the epitome of Sussex County.

“You are a truly symbol of what this county is about. I say that from someone who has observed you and witnessed you and others around you.”

“Lawrence is a good common-sense person,” added Councilman Sam Wilson. “Thank you, Lawrence, for doing a great job.”

I.G. Burton III, who served 11 years as a member of the county’s Planning & Zoning Commission before being sworn in as a county councilman this month, said he has appreciated Lank’s friendship over the years.

County Attorney J. Everett Moore Jr. said he first met Lank in 1973 — his first year in law school — while clerking for the summer in Georgetown.

“There were a lot of things going on in the county that summer. Planning & Zoning was relatively new. … During that period of time, I was doing title searches, and Lawrence Lank actually took out a protractor and showed me how to plot deeds so we could trace that more completely,” recalled Moore.

“When you look at Lawrence, the epitome of any type worker — you want reliability, you want consistency and the institutional knowledge. And Lawrence had every one of those.”

Moore said Lank’s institutional knowledge was “absolutely incredible.”

“You would mention some sort of case, and he would go, ‘We’ve done another one like that,’ and he’d pull out the map and he’d pull out the file. It wasn’t on a computer; it wasn’t on a list; it was in his mind.”

Lank, who was visibly moved by the words of praise, said he never expected the accolades.

“I have totally enjoyed my job,” he said.

Lank praised his staff for being wonderful coworkers and friends.

“The biggest thing to me has been staff. I love my staff. They’re excellent — past and present. The group today, I can send them anywhere and they can take care of problems…

“To me, they were my friends, my co-workers, and they’re my family. That’s about all I can say.”

Lank was presented with a proclamation and plaque acknowledging his service to Sussex County.

Also at the Jan. 3 meeting, the winning candidates in the November general election were sworn in to their posts. Burton was sworn in as the new District 3 council member, replacing the retiring Joan R. Deaver. Also sworn in was newly elected Sussex County Clerk of the Peace Norman A. “Jay” Jones Jr., replacing John F. Brady, who did not seek re-election.

County Councilmen Michael H. Vincent of Seaford and Samuel R. Wilson Jr. of Georgetown, both of whom won re-election, took their oaths of office as well on Tuesday.

Following the swearing in, the council appointed Vincent to continue to serve as council president and voted to have Cole take over the role of vice-president.

The next County Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 10, at 10 a.m.

Dagsboro’s new administrator dives right into the job

0
0

Coastal Point • Tyler Valliant: Cindi Brought is fully immersed in her new duties as administrator of the Town of Dagsboro.Coastal Point • Tyler Valliant: Cindi Brought is fully immersed in her new duties as administrator of the Town of Dagsboro.For two months, Dagsboro Town Hall was without day-to-day leadership. But Cynthia “Cindi” Brought has returned to the public sector to become Dagsboro’s town administrator.

Brought said she enjoys helping residents work through their problems — even the tough ones. And she’s done it before, as Frankford’s town clerk (and only town-hall employee) from 1998 to 2001.

“It was always something new and exciting,” Brought said. “It’s a challenge, but I really enjoy it, just dealing with the public. I feel like I’m very approachable, and I listen to their concerns, their complaints, and I follow up on it. … It might not be the answer they want, but I will get it.”

As town administrator, Brought will advocate for the Town and enforce town laws.

“I like that challenge,” she said. “I enjoy being able to calm someone down and let them know we can work things out the right way.”

She said she wants to help the town move forward, not just throw the rulebook at violations.

“I would like to see everybody work together, not against each other,” Brought said.

“The townspeople would like to see us become more of a small-town atmosphere, [where someone could] walk around with a cup of coffee” and visit a bakery, ice creamery or other small shops, she said.

The results of a 2015 survey showed that people want a business-friendly downtown, similar to a Lewes or Berlin, Md., Brought said. But there are challenges, including the Route 26 beach corridor, which doubles as the town’s Main Street.

“There’s a lot of traffic that goes through this town. … How do you control that?” Brought said. “There’s a lot of things to be looked at. But this town, this council right now is willing to look at that. We definitely want to maintain that warm, small-town, single-family atmosphere.”

She said she sees the potential.

“It’s a great little town. We’ve got the town park, which is a beautiful little park. … We’ve got the tree-lighting and the parade,” she said.

Brought brings human resources and accounting experience to the table. While being the Town’s code-enforcement official, too, will be a learning experience for her, she said she wants to help bring Dagsboro’s homes up to snuff. She said she’d especially like to inspect all rental units regularly, to ensure everyone is living is a safe and attractive atmosphere.

If needed, Brought said, she will start sending code violation notices, “So that everybody has a neighbor they can be happy with,” she said. “The ordinances, the charter — it’s all done for a reason.”

Right now, Brought is playing some catch-up. Her position was empty for about two months, so some business went untended. But she’s gotten guidance and help from previous administrator Stacey Long, who left to accept the same position with the Town of Selbyville.

“I have to move forward with these projects,” address the backlog of old permit requests and still manage everyday business, Brought said.

As to her future goals, “I would like to see myself start to sit down and apply for grants, maybe sidewalks in the downtown area,” she added.

She already has one grant-funded project to oversee.

After October’s Hurricane Matthew caused flooding and drainage problems around Warrington Street, the Town won grant money to research and plan a solution. Culverts under the road might be weakening the road, and existing drainage ditches aren’t functioning properly.

Administered by the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), the $22,500 grant will be matched by local legislative funds of state Sen. Gerald Hocker Sr. and state Rep. Rich Collins. After the study, the Town must decide how to fund that solution.

She started her work for the Town on Oct. 9, just as Hurricane Matthew dropped a black walnut tree on the swing set and brick pathway at Katie Helm Park. The new town administrator spent her day on the phone with the Town’s insurance company.

“It’s nice to have people that are so helpful, including our insurance company and Bob,” she said of Bob Flowers, Town maintenance-person, who cut the tree apart, piece by piece.

As town administrator, Brought is also Dagsboro’s water department supervisor and Prince George’s Chapel Cemetery administrator. She directs and supervises the town employees, including Financial Clerk Debbie Whaley and Town Clerk Megan Thorpe. (Town Hall does not oversee police department but does handle their administrative work, such as budget and payroll.)

“I have a great group of people” for support, said Brought, including Mayor Brian Baull.

She encouraged residents to come visit Town Hall.

“We’re open. Come voice compliments or complaints — we’ll take it all! We’re here for the town,” Brought said. “We would like everybody to be happy living in the town of Dagsboro.”

Originally from Harrisburg, Pa., Brought has lived in Sussex County for 30 years. Aside from the long hours at Town Hall, she said she enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends and at the Ravens Roost in Ocean City, Md.

Dagsboro appoints Baull as mayor

0
0

There’s a new mayor in Dagsboro, but one with a familiar face.

Brian Baull Sr. was appointed as mayor of the Town of Dagsboro at its December town council meeting, replacing Norwood Truitt, who remains on the council.

Baull said the appointment wasn’t a complete shock, as the role of mayor requires one to talk to the public — something Baull is used to doing as a local radio D.J.

He first joined the Dagsboro Town Council in December 2013, after fellow residents had asked him to run for council.

“Going back three years ago now, I hadn’t had much interest but had been asked to do it, and I thought, ‘OK, I’ll do my part.’

“It’s not overly time-consuming, and we have a lot of good people in place who know what’s going on. They make our job easy.”

The Town’s new administrator, Cynthia “Cindi” Brought, said Baull was a great choice for the position.

“He’s fantastic. I’m looking forward to him being mayor. He’s gonna be fantastic because he knows what he’s talking about, he doesn’t mind telling you what he thinks, but he’s nice about it.”

Baull is involved in a number of community organizations, such as Relay for Life in Sussex County, and currently serves as president of the Indian River High School Band Boosters. He and his wife, Amy, have two kids, Brian Baull Jr., 21, and Ella, 16.

As for Dagsboro in the new year, Baull said he hopes to focus on business activity.

“I think the biggest thing we need to work on in 2017 is having more businesses in town. We’ve lost a couple of businesses here in the last couple of months,” he said, noting the loss of Red Barn and Dagsboro Antiques. “We have some buildings who need businesses in them. It would be nice to have more local business, more local dollars staying in town.”

Dagsboro needs to be more of a destination, said Baull, adding that he hopes to be a part of that change.

“I think, still, too many people think of us as the town to drive through on their way down to the beach. So, hopefully, we can get some new businesses in town and, hopefully, give them a reason to stop, look around and see what the town has to offer.”

Baull said what he loves about Dagsboro the most is its small-town charm, and he hopes he can continue to serve the town and its people well.

“I like helping out the folks in our community. I think that’s the biggest thing — that sense of community pride, and doing your part to help; hopefully, see the town grow and prosper, and bring new things in for people to enjoy.

“When people say they want to move here and start their lives here, that’s a neat thing to be a part of. As long as I’m able to do it and the people of the town think I’m worthy enough to do it, I’ll probably stick with it for a while longer, too.”

IRSD's Bunting tapped to become state's top legislator

0
0

Dr. Susan BuntingDr. Susan BuntingThe Indian River School District may be sending another education leader to the state level. This time, it’s for the big chair.

IRSD Superintendent Susan Bunting is to be nominated for Secretary of the Delaware Department of Education. On Dec. 30, Gov.-elect John Carney announced his intent to nominate Bunting for his cabinet to lead Delaware for the next four years.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to be in this district for the length of time that I’ve been here. It’s a very tough decision to go, but I’m hoping to help more people,” Bunting said. Ultimately, the students have been “at the heart of everything” she has done.

Bunting has served as Indian River School District superintendent since 2006, currently responsible for more than 10,000 students and more than 1,300 employees — one of the state’s biggest and fastest-growing school districts.

“Susan is among the most knowledgeable educators in Delaware, and has committed her career to improving public education in our state and doing what is best for Delaware students,” Carney stated.

“She will help us refocus the Department of Education as a support agency to help districts keep high-quality teachers in the classroom and better address the needs of their students — particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. I’m confident Susan is the right person for the job.”

As Secretary of Education, Bunting would oversee Delaware’s public school system and serve as Carney’s education policy adviser.

Over the past few months, Bunting and other educational leaders had been invited to speak with the governor’s transition team.

“They were conservations. I wouldn’t call it an interview,” she said. “There are various teams out, I guess, gathering information on the state of education in Delaware.”

She definitely knows education, up to the federal standards. Bunting serves on outgoing Gov. Jack Markell’s advisory committee for Delaware’s implementation of Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

“That’s the federal law, the new version of No Child Left Behind,” Bunting said. “Having experience in the field, you are able to talk about some things that work well, and that there will be challenges and things that might be more easily accomplished because of the flexibility ESSA has” compared to NCLB, she said.

She’s also dipped her toes into the legislative side of things, having advocated for education in Dover and in Washington, D.C., with the American Association of School Administrators.

Bunting will soon sit down with Carney to discuss his vision for education in Delaware.

“I was honored to be asked,” said Bunting, who said the actual timeline depends on state Senate confirmation hearings. Carney will be inaugurated Jan. 17. She said her confirmation process could be done in late January.

She intends to accept the position.

“I think everything I’ve done in the last 40 years has prepared me to take on the role,” including different experiences, assignments, committee work, people and, of course, formal training.

Bunting’s passions always begin with early childhood education and ELL English language learners (ELL), especially in a district where so many speak multiple languages.

But said she she’s also proud of the additional academic programs the school district added over the years: Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), more career training and other programs begun with Race to the Top money.

Before serving as superintendent, Bunting helped start IRSD’s Project Village, a preschool program for children with economic and language barriers. It has frequently been honored in Delaware for helping young children begin kindergarten on the same level with their peers.

“I’m very big on leadership,” said Bunting.

Programs such as IRSD’s Leadership Institute are part of the district’s ongoing professional development of teachers and administrators. As IRSD’s top dog, Bunting has often overseen or led such programs.

Her tenure at IRSD includes numerous school, student and staff awards, including her own honor as a top-four finalist for 2012 National Superintendent of the Year.

Her goal is not just to produce lifelong learners, she said in a 2012 interview, “but healthy lifelong learners, ready to be able to give back to their communities, as their community supported them growing up, helping them prepare for the future. It’s a global kind of thing.”

Accepting this job would mean leaving the IRSD, where she’s spent most of her career, with “too many” proud moments to list.

“I’m very proud of what our staff members and our students have been able to achieve. I think we have come a long way in the last decade, in particular,” Bunting said. “I think our students can hold their heads high in the state of Delaware.”

“I would like to wish her the best,” said Charles Bireley, president of the IRSD school board. “She is very deserving. She certainly knows instruction as well as anyone in the state. She is very well known all over the state and should be able to fit right in her new position.”

In recent years, at least two IRSD school board members have been appointed to the Delaware Board of Education.

Although it’s a now-or-never opportunity for her, Bunting’s potential promotion comes at a challenging time for the Indian River School District. After a failed current-expense referendum this autumn, the district will go to referendum again in March, aiming to keep its finances afloat and begin rebuilding its contingency fund.

There is also some financial policy and transparency issues to be addressed, after the Delaware State Auditor of Accounts presented a less-than-flattering report of finances under the district’s former chief financial officer.

Bunting came to the IRSD in 1977, after six years as a teacher and curriculum writer in Maryland. As a teacher, she won IRSD Teacher of the Year for 1984-1985. She became the IRSD supervisor of elementary instruction in 1991, then IRSD director of instruction in 1996.

Bunting earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and elementary education from American University, a master’s degree in education from Salisbury University and a doctorate in education leadership from the University of Delaware.

Cabinet nominations must be confirmed by the Delaware Senate. If confirmed, she would take over the position currently held by Steven Godowsky.

Other planned nominations by Carney that have recently been announced include:

• Shawn M. Garvin — Secretary, Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control (DNREC)

• Richard J. “Rick” Geisenberger — Secretary, Department of Finance

• James Collins — (continuing) chief information officer, Delaware Department of Technology & Information

• Mike Jackson — director, Office of Management & Budget

• Perry Phelps — commissioner, Department of Correction

• Jennifer Cohan — (continuing) Secretary, Department of Transportation

• Jeffrey Bullock — (continuing) Secretary, Department of State.

The 2016 Delaware Gubernatorial Transition Team is based in Dover and Wilmington, and can be reached by calling (302) 577-5229. Résumés are being accepted to fill government staff positions. Visit www.transition.delaware.gov or email transitionresumes@delaware.gov for more information.


Winter is a busy season for birdfeeding aficionados

0
0

Coastal Point • Shaun M. Lambert: A cardinal sits at a bird feeder in Camden-Wyoming.Coastal Point • Shaun M. Lambert: A cardinal sits at a bird feeder in Camden-Wyoming.The other day, my 3-year-old grandson, Samuel, and I were filling our birdfeeders when my son-in-law asked if we really expected birds to come use them at this time of the year. At first I thought, why ask such a silly question? But after I thought a little bit about it, I realized that it wasn’t such a silly question.

Many people remember being taught that birds fly south for the winter. Also, if you don’t have birdfeeders up, you will see fewer birds during the winter months. However, if you have birdfeeders up and keep them cleaned and filled, you will have lots of birds visiting your yard.

Many birds eat bugs and, at this time of year, many bugs go into dormant states. Other birds eat seeds, and plants also go into dormant states at this time of year, resulting in less seeds for the birds to eat.

Then there are the birds that eat other birds and animals. This time of the year, with the leaves off of the trees and shrubs, so there is less camouflage for the smaller birds to hide in. Some birds’ brighter colors of spring and summer actually turn more muted at this time of the year so that they do blend in more.

If you do place birdfeeders in your yard, you will notice that they will be very well-populated throughout the fall and winter, even more so then they are in the late spring and summer. Providing fresh water is an added bonus, but becomes more labor-intensive during the colder months, because it freezes throughout the day and night.

One of the best ways to provide water is to place several small dishes of water out and to change it a couple times a day, or at least put a fresh bowl of water every morning and again a little before dusk. Birds will generally feed the heaviest at early to late morning; sunup until 9 or 10 a.m.; and then at dusk, 4-6 p.m. So, if you place several small saucers/bowls of fresh water out at those times, it will allow the birds fresh water to drink.

Plant saucers, old dog bowls, inexpensive shallow plastic-ware and the like make good choices. Do not use glass or metal. If the water freezes in the glass containers, they can easily break. The metal ones freeze quickly, and the birds’ feet can actually freeze onto the bowls, causing them to lose a toe or even a complete foot from sticking to the metal. (You know — tongue stuck to pole in the “Christmas Story” movie)

Placing birdfeeders in your yard not only helps the birds that come to feed from your feeders, but can also help the birds and animals that prey on them. It brings the seed-eating birds out into the open in a central location, which can sometimes, unfortunately, make them an easier target for other prey birds and animals.

However, careful placement of your feeders can help to deter the prey animals. Place your birdfeeders near fences, buildings, tree trunks/branches, etc. If you place a feeder out in the middle of an open area, you make the birds feeding there easy targets for prey animals. Birds of prey more or less “swoop” down, and they need a more open area to do that.

By placing your feeders near other objects, you make it more difficult for the hawks and such to fly in and grab a bird. Placing birdfeeders away from low bushes also make it harder for cats to hide and sneak up on the birds feeding there. So feeder placement can be very important.

My feeders are currently placed along a fence row that runs between my daughter’s home and mine. During the spring and summer, we place them in additional areas, but in the late fall and winter, I bring them all in closer to the houses.

One reason is rather selfishly motivated, because it makes it so I can watch the birds from sitting in my nice warm house. Secondly, closer to the house means less time I have to spend out in the cold to keep them cleaned and filled. Also, it makes them safer for the prey animals. There are lots of obstacles for prey birds to have to navigate. There are also fewer hiding areas for cats and other prey animals to hide.

If you are new to feeding birds, find out what kinds of birds are around in your area at this time of year, what they eat and what kind of feeder will work best for you. For example, using a hummingbird feeder at this time of year would be wasteful, because hummingbirds do fly south for the winter.

Buy a quality feeder that comes apart easily for cleaning. Also, buy quality seed. Cheaper bird foods comes with a lot of waste in them, which results in less food for the birds and more spilled seed. That spilled seed will often sprout and grow in the spring, resulting in “weeds” growing beneath your birdfeeders.

It also ends up costing you more in time and money. The birds will “spill out” the seeds they don’t like, allowing it to fall onto the ground, which results in your needing to refill the feeders more often, which results in buying seed more often. Also, the spilled seed attracts mice and rats and other unwelcome guests to feast on the spilled seed.

Buying more select seed mixes results in less seed waste. You may spend a little more upfront, but it results in actually getting more for your money in the long run.

Check your feeders regularly. With the windy rainstorms we get in this area, the feeders will sometimes get water inside, causing seeds to sprout (which is OK), but it also causes the seeds to mold (not OK). If your seed gets wet, dump the feeder out, clean it, dry it out completely and then refill with fresh seed.

If the seeds do start to sprout, you can dump it out onto the ground, and some birds will eat them, but if they have any mold, throw it away. Mold can make birds sick and even possibly kill some.

Try different styles of feeders to attract different types of birds. Also provide a variety of seed to attract a wider variety of birds. Some birds will start coming the first day you hang your feeders, but others are slower to find your feeders and are a little more timid.

As your feeders become established, you will notice some birds hanging around on the ground below your feeders; this is because some birds, such as doves, feed from the ground. There are ground feeders you can purchase, or you can sprinkle some seed around on the ground for those types of birds to feed on. (Warning, some of the uneaten seed will sprout and grow during the growing seasons. These sprouted seeds are easy to pull up, because they are only surface-rooted.)

Providing different styles of feeders and types of seeds will result in bringing a wider selection of bird species flocking to your yard. Providing fresh water for birds to drink and bathe in will also help. Placing your feeders where you can see them through a window in your home is best during the colder months, so that you can sit inside in the warmth of your home and watch the birds eating, playing and even sometimes “squabbling.”

Many of my and my grandson’s feeders are placed along the fence row that runs between our two houses. This way, I can sit at my kitchen table and look out the window at them, and Samuel can watch through his back door or out the living room windows, or even from his second-story bedroom window.

During the summer months, we add some additional feeders in different parts of the yard, but many of them are more out in the open, making the birds easier targets for prey animals, such as hawks. Keeping them close to the fence and between the two houses makes the birds more difficult targets for hawks during the time of year when food is scarcer.

Many of the birds have become used to us being out in this area and allow us to remain close without startling, but even when they do fly away, it’s usually not long before they return. I enjoy sitting at my kitchen table every morning, watching the birds eat, drink, play and sometimes even have little scuffles.

In the warmer weather, we have a small outdoor table and chairs where we can sit outside and watch them. We add a flowerbed in the spring that is bird-, bee- and butterfly-friendly. Of course, having the birdfeeders in our flower bed does add for some extra weeding, but the seeds are shallow-rooted and easily pulled up weekly, and sometimes we actually let some of the “weeds” grow, such as the wild sunflowers, which then provide more food for the birds.

Last spring we had a hummingbird feeder, but we did have one male hummingbird that was extremely territorial, so we will probably have two hummingbird feeders, at opposite ends of the flower garden, and then place another hummingbird feeder in the front yard and one more in the back yard. Yes, bird-feeding and flower beds are addicting, and seem to grow and grow and grow.

I had started this article in early December but had abandoned finishing it, until Saturday, when our first snow came along. Samuel and I had filled our feeders on Tuesday. We have four tube feeders, a large hopper feeder, another small hopper feeder, three suet basket feeders and one ground feeder.

Most of the feeders were at least three-quarters full Saturday morning, but almost completely empty by sundown Saturday evening. Sunday morning, I refilled all of them. I also spread a couple pounds of seed on the ground. All day Saturday, there were no less than 50 to 100 birds continuously feeding and, apparently, overnight they told their friends about it, because Sunday brought even more birds.

Apparently, the birds were very hungry, because even while my son-in-law was shoveling the sidewalks, which are less than 4 feet from the feeders, the birds remained. Unfortunately, many larger birds came in, chasing the smaller birds off of the feeders. By sprinkling some of the seed on the ground closer to the houses, it gave the smaller birds other options.

I also threw some bird seed on the ground at several different locations away from the area with the feeders. The birds fed from sunup to sundown both Saturday and Sunday. I guess no one else in the neighborhood has any feeders up.

Some of the types of birds that came visiting were cardinals, black-capped chickadees, red-winged blackbirds, house sparrows, chipping sparrows, Bewick’s wrens, mourning doves, Carolina wrens, house finches, song sparrows, slate-colored juncos, starlings, common grackles, red-bellied woodpeckers, a downy or hairy woodpecker, brewer’s blackbirds, American goldfinches and more.

(Now, I am not an expert on birds. I more enjoy watching and enjoying them, rather than having a positive ID for them. I have a few bird-identification books and a few different websites that I regularly use, so I may not have all of these exactly right, but these were my best guesses.)

I was quite surprised, because we do have quite a few extremely territorial mockingbirds living here, and I did not see them visiting or defending the feeders the last few days. There were several birds that I was unable to identify, but it was still fun watching them and trying to figure out what type of bird they were.

Cheryl Loveland is a semi-retired dog groomer. She currently resides in Millsboro with two bloodhounds, a bichon frisée, two cats, a scarlet macaw, two tree frogs, a leopard frog and a lizard, and a stray cat that has recently moved in and adopted her. Also living on the property are her daughters family’s pets and livestock, including two dogs, a guinea pig, a turtle, a tank of fish, three ducks and numerous chickens and rabbits. She is a member of Colonial Bloodhound Club and secretary for the Mispillion Kennel Club. She is currently retired from rescue work due to her desire to do some traveling. She has been working with all types of animals all of her life. She may be reached at countryservice@comcast.net.

Birding weekend for all nature lovers

0
0

For the people who love hearing a great horned owl hoot eerily at dusk, or watching a great blue heron chow down on an unlucky fish: Humans and birds are flying toward the Delmarva Peninsula for the same reason — the winter migration.

More than a dozen birding outings are planned over the next four months, including: the 2nd Annual Winter Delmarva Birding Weekend, “Beans, Birds & Beers” day trips and the 22nd Annual Spring Delmarva Birding Weekend.

This is an incredible birding area, organizers said, “thanks to an extensive variety of habitat protected by coastal parks, refuges and wildlife management areas.”

“During the Weekends, our guests will hike on private farmland and woodland that are normally off-limits to birders, and our waterborne trips go where the birds are,” stated organizer Dave Wilson. “It’s amazing to tally 100 species in a single day on light hikes and boat trips in our own back yard.”

“This is in our back yards, guys and gals, not Montana,” said organizer Jim Rapp.

Wintertime is packed with the migrating birds following the food sources southward.

“There’s so much food on the coast for the ducks and geese (and also the eagles that like to eat birds and geese),” Wilson said.

“The winter is great,” he said, “because you get really good looks at large birds, ducks, falcons, eagles, ducks…”

Oh, and seals.

Humans love glimpsing furry and flippered animals during outings, he noted. Last year, visitors saw harbor seals and gray seals on the popular Lewes sailing excursion, as well as river otters and red foxes elsewhere.

The events attract both experienced and novice birders — as well as people who just enjoy nature. Some people travel from across the U.S. to see Delmarva’s wildlife.

“They can’t see red knots in their back yards” in Philadelphia and New York, said Rapp.

“People love to see birds and count birds, but mostly people just want to be outdoors, and the Delmarva Peninsula is so beautiful. There’s a lot of beautiful places for people to see,” Wilson said. “It’s really about the experience. People love to be outside and talk to like-minded people.”

In addition, the guides are fun and engaging, not just “bookworms pointing at things,” he quipped.

Registration is completely à la carte, so people can pick and choose their favorite destinations.

Guests will carpool from a meeting point to each wildlife location.

“These trips aren’t long walks. We’ll get out of the car, walk five, 10 minutes max, look at ponds, look at marsh … probably stay at each spot for half an hour or so,” Wilson said. “It depends on the spot. Some spots are hotter than others.”

Participants should bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Telescopes are optional, since tour guides usually have one at each event.

Most outings cost $25 apiece (more for special trips). Delaware sites include Indian River Inlet and Cape Henlopen, while Maryland trips include the Chincoteague Bay, Assateague Island, Berlin Falls Park and Newport Farms (near Berlin).

Each day ends with a Tally Rally, a happy-hour meetup to count the total number of species sighted.

Registration is online (or will be soon) for all events:

• Jan. 27 to 29: Winter Delmarva Birding Weekend. Hiking and boating trips through Maryland and Delaware to view waterfowl, seabirds, shorebirds, raptors, possibly including swans, harlequin duck, great cormorant, purple sandpiper, snowy owl, crested caracara and 27 species of waterfowl. More than 110 species were tallied during the 2016 winter DBW.

• Saturday, Feb. 25: “Beans, Birds & Beers.” Berlin, Assateague Island and Ocean City, Md. Meet at Urban Nectar Co-op, end at Burley Oak Brewing Company, Berlin.

• Saturday, March 25: “Beans, Birds & Beers.” Cape Henlopen State Park and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge. Meet at Arena’s Deli, Lewes, end at Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Rehoboth Beach.

• April 27 to 30: Spring Delmarva Birding Weekend. Hiking, paddling and boating trips in Maryland and Delaware to view early-arriving spring migrants and late-wintering waterfowl and raptors (174 species tallied during the 2016 Spring DBW, including the prothonotary warbler, black-necked stilt, black skimmer and 14 species of warbler.

In the future, they’re hoping to add special trips to Smith Island, Md., home to one of the northernmost brown pelican nesting colonies on the planet.

More than 400 bird species have been recorded in the region, and previous Weekend tallies have topped 200 species.

“Most folks have no idea how spectacular the winter birding is down here,” stated Rapp. “The sheer number of bald eagles and ducks is mind-boggling. We’re hosting the event on the weekend between the NFL playoffs and the Super Bowl, so we hope you’ll get off the couch, bundle up, and go birding with us!”

The events are hosted by Conservation Community Consulting, with support from Worcester County (Md.) Tourism and Southern Delaware Tourism. For details, call (443) 523-2201 or email conservationcc@gmail.com. Registration and sponsorships are available online by visiting www.DelmarvaBirding.com and www.facebook.com/DelmarvaBirdingWeekend.

Coastal towns find strength in numbers

0
0

In coastal Delaware, it’s time to ACT up.

Perhaps a decade has passed since the coastal towns came together in an official alliance. But the Association of Coastal Towns (ACT) is re-forming, with Bethany Beach, South Bethany and Fenwick Island already in on the ACT.

After the first formal meeting of the three towns’ mayors on Jan. 5, they now plan to invite Dewey Beach, Rehoboth Beach and Lewes to join them at their Feb. 3 meeting.

The beach towns formed ACT years ago to lobby for Delaware sand dunes. That mission was accomplished around the same time the Sussex County Association of Towns (SCAT) was forming. The local towns disbanded ACT to join the larger group, SCAT.

But, these days, the biggest challenges for these beach towns are again ones that are unique to those easternmost towns. They want to create a singular voice to address important issues, such as lobbying for dune repairs or funding environmental studies.

Beach replenishment is the most pressing issue, especially as the federal government hasn’t yet confirmed that funding will be available for the 2017 southern beach replenishment cycle. Mostly funded by the federal government, beach replenishment helps to maintain the sand dunes that protect homes, businesses and infrastructure.

“I think it would be good if we had a concerted … effort” to ensure southern beach towns are included in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ next budget for beach replenishment, Bethany Beach Mayor Jack Gordon told his council in November.

State officials encouraged the alliance, emphasizing the power of regional lobbying efforts.

“It’s a multi-tier initiative,” said South Bethany Mayor Pat Voveris. “We just want to make our towns solid, and protect and make our waters healthy.”

Of particular interest to beach towns are the issues of climate change flooding and sea level rise; offshore drilling and sounding activities; volunteer fire company issues (especially diminished volunteerism); the local economy’s dependence on tourism; reduced transfer tax revenue; and inland bays activities (such as aquaculture).

But the towns have no intention of leaving the larger Sussex County association.

“SCAT’s a really good organization, but we have obviously different needs than the towns in Western Sussex,” said Fenwick Island Mayor Gene Langan. “With the issues of beach replenishment coming up, we just thought it was good to start up again, just because of the unique things [to beach towns] … What we want to try to do is have one voice.”

To make that voice even stronger, the mayors of Rehoboth, Dewey and Lewes are now being invited to attend the February ACT meeting or send members of their town councils or planning commissions.

Agenda – January 13, 2016

0
0

Bethany Beach

• The Charter & Ordinance Review Committee meeting set for Jan. 9 was canceled.

• Bethany Beach Town Hall will be closed on Monday, Jan. 16, for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• The Bethany Beach Town Council will hold its next regular meeting on Friday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at town hall. The agenda for the meeting includes: a first reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 217 (Alcoholic Beverages) of the town code to add a new section regarding hotels; a first reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 395 (Building Construction) to extend construction hours from 8 a.m. to noon to 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays between Oct. 1 and May 30; and a first reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 475 (Property Maintenance) of the town code to reduce problems associated with residential outdoor lighting by regulating both the intensity and location of outdoor lighting.

• The Bethany Beach Planning Commission will hold its next meeting on Saturday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m. at town hall.

• The Bethany Beach Board of Adjustment will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 10 a.m. at town hall to consider an application for a variance, filed by property owner John H. Burbage Jr., for Block 105, Lot 7, at 107 Garfield Parkway, in the C-1 Commercial Zoning District (Fish Tales) seeking a variance from Chapter 425, Article XV, Off-Street Parking & Loading, Section 425-87 (B), to remove the requirement for off-street loading space for new construction or enlargement of the existing building. The application may be inspected in the office of the building inspector during regular business hours.

• The Bethany Beach Budget & Finance Committee will meet on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 10 a.m. at town hall.

• The Town of Bethany Beach’s recent survey regarding specific design elements for the proposed “Central Park” has been completed and tabulated. To see the results, visit http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/DocumentCenter/View/2398. To see the survey as presented, including illustrations, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Preview/?sm=BMy_2BRLkGbCwB4ov3Q9FwB4K2vPI.... (No further survey responses are being accepted.)

The public can view on the Town website the presentation by Oasis Design Group to the Bethany Beach Town Council, soliciting input for preliminary concept development for the features and organization of “Central Park,” at the intersection of Routes 1 and 26. The URLs for the four presentation segments are http://www.townofbethanybeach.com/mediacenter.aspx?VID=30 (and 31, 32 and 33).

South Bethany

• The Planning Commission will meet Friday, Jan. 13, at 10 a.m.

• Yard waste is picked up biweekly, continuing on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

• Recycling is collected biweekly, continuing on Friday, Jan. 20.

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Friday, Feb. 10, at 7 p.m.

• Prohibitions on dogs on the beach ended Oct. 15 and will resume May 15, 2017.

• The Town of South Bethany’s website is located at www.southbethany.org.

Fenwick Island

• The Environmental Committee will meet Thursday, Jan. 12, at 2:30 p.m.

• Town Hall will be closed Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• The Business Development Committee will meet Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 2 p.m.

• There will be a sub-division hearing Friday, Jan. 27, at 2:30 p.m.

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Friday, Jan 27, at 3:30 p.m.

• The Fenwick Island town website is located at www.fenwickisland.delaware.gov. The Town of Fenwick Island is also now on Twitter, at https://twitter.com/IslandFenwick or @IslandFenwick.

Ocean View

• The Town of Ocean View’s Facebook page can be found at www.facebook.com/townofoceanview.

• The Ocean View town website is located at www.oceanviewde.com.

Millville

• The town council’s next workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 7 p.m.

• The Millville town website is located at www.millville.delaware.gov.

Millsboro

• The Millsboro town website is located at www.millsboro.org.

Dagsboro

• Town Hall will be closed Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

• Historic Prince George’s Chapel will host the Olde Christmas Musical Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 15, at 1:30 p.m. Admission is free, but donations will be taken, to benefit chapel maintenance.

• The Dagsboro Planning & Zoning Commission will meet Wednesday, Jan. 18, at 6 p.m., at Bethel U.M. Church.

• The Dagsboro Town Council’s next regular meeting will be Monday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m., at Bethel U.M. Church.

• There was no town council election on Dec. 3. The seats up for election will be filled by incumbents Norwood Truitt and William Chandler. Brian Baull has been selected as the town’s new mayor.

• The Town of Dagsboro website is at www.townofdagsboro.com.

Frankford

• Curbside recycling is picked up every other Tuesday, continuing Jan. 24.

• The Town of Frankford website is located at www.frankfordde.us.

Selbyville

• Curbside recycling is collected every other Wednesday, continuing Jan. 18.

• The Planning & Zoning Commission will meet Thursday, Jan. 19, at 4 p.m.

• The town council’s next regular meeting is Monday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m.

• Bulk trash is collected on the first Wednesday of each month. Households may put out one bulk item, such as a television, each month.

• The Town website is at www.TownOfSelbyville.com.

Indian River School District

• Schools will be closed on Jan. 16 for Martin Luther King Jr. Day and on Jan. 27 for a staff learning day.

• The IRSD Board of Education’s special meeting on Jan. 9 was rescheduled for Monday, Jan. 18, at 7 p.m. at Sussex Central High School. The agenda includes the referendum, administrative positions and an executive session that may include discussion of personnel, litigation, negotiations or student hearings.

• The IRSD Board of Education will meet next on Monday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. Indian River High School.

• The second marking period ends Jan. 26. Report cards will be issued on Friday, Feb. 3.

• The district will host a public referendum on Thursday, March 2, to address a current-expense issue with a proposed 49-cent increase per $100 of assessed property value. The weather date is March 16. The Nov. 22 public referendum was defeated by a margin of 20 votes among more than 6,000 cast.

• The Indian River School District’s Special Education Task Force will host parent focus group meetings on Wednesdays, Feb. 8, 2017, at Georgetown Middle School; and March 22, 2017, at Millsboro Middle School. All of the meetings are at 6 p.m.

• The school district website is www.irsd.net.

• The district website is at www.irsd.net.

Sussex County

• Agendas, minutes and audio, as well as live streaming of all County meetings, may be found online at www.sussexcountyde.gov.

Sussex Countians preparing to join Women’s March

0
0

On the new presidential administration’s first full day in Washington, D.C., thousands of women, men and children will be descending on the nation’s capital to march in support of equality and women’s rights.

The national website for the Women’s March on Washington explains the event’s mission as a way to “stand together in solidarity with our partners and children for the protection of our rights, our safety, our health and our families — recognizing that our vibrant and diverse communities are the strength of our country.”

It was born out of an election-night Facebook post that “went viral” overnight, and Angela Anacay, the state leader for the march’s Delaware chapter, credited the momentum to the original poster — a grandmother named Teresa Shook.

Many from Delaware, including at least few hundred from Sussex County, will be making the trip to Washington, D.C. for the Jan. 21 event.

“I am expecting over 1,000 people from Delaware. The organizing committee for Delaware chartered nine buses, carrying 477 passengers. Outside of buses, many are driving down or taking a train. Delaware will have a huge footprint in this historic event,” Anacay said.

Brooke Pikolas of Lewes said that, while she’s never attended a protest like this, she’s looking forward to attending the march with her mother, who she says has been a political activist in the community for years.

According to Pikolas, talk of the march started through conversations and posts on private Facebook groups, and plans quickly fell into place from there.

“We got a bus together from Unitarian Universalist. We filled that bus in a day, and all of the buses in the area filled fast,” she said.

Pikolas also said that she sees this march as a transition between the older generation of women’s equality advocates and the modern feminist movement.

“That group of women are tired,” she said. “They need young people to come forward and start doing something. We have to start stepping forward.”

In addition to attending the march, Pikolas has also started a parent support group called Parents for Humanity, for families of area children who have been victims of harassment or hate crimes in school. They recently held their first meeting and plan to continue meeting once a month.

Pikolas said her hope for the march is that it starts a movement. She emphasized that the mission of the march is not a partisan issue.

“This is not Democrat or Republican, not pro-choice or pro-life — this is so far beyond that,” she said.

Jessica Farley, the Sussex County organizer for the Delaware chapter of the march, said that she also heard about the event on Facebook and quickly came on board when the Delaware chapter was formed.

Farley said that, in addition to buses chartered by the official march team, St. Peter’s Evangelical Church, Camp Rehoboth, Planned Parenthood and Sussex County Democrats will also be bringing buses to D.C.

On a national level, organizations including Emily’s List, the Human Rights Campaign and the NAACP have signed on as official partners of the march, and noted social justice advocates Gloria Steinem and Harry Belafonte have been named honorary co-chairs. Other celebrities, including America Ferrera, Scarlett Johansson, Julianne Moore, Katy Perry, Cher and Olivia Wilde are also expected to attend.

For those planning to attend the march, Delaware organizers recently released information about security and safety rules being implemented in Washington, D.C., for the event. Among the key restrictions that have been announced, national organizers have said that backpacks (or any bag larger than 8-by-6-by-4 inches) will not be permitted at the march, and that all bags are subject to search. More information about personal bag regulations can be found at www.mwmde.wordpress.com.

To address concerns about First Amendment rights and security, an update from the Delaware chapter also noted that march marshals trained in de-escalation, as well as street lawyers, will be present to monitor and assist with the event.

For those unable to go to D.C., plans are also in the works for Delawareans to join more than 170 cities around the world in a sister march, with the Delaware march to be held in Newark on Jan. 21. According to march organizers, the Delaware march will begin at 9 a.m. with an indoor candlelight vigil at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Newark, followed by a march at 10 a.m. and a rally back at the church at 11 a.m.

Donna Shand of Newark is the principal organizer of the sister march and said she wanted to put something together for people like her, who are unable to travel to Washington, D.C. Shand said her motivation to march stems from the “global concern that the next presidential administration will not respect human rights.”

Shand said added that everyone, including those with physical limitations, is being invited to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Newark to participate in the event, which she hopes will “send a message to the world that we are organized, paying attention, and will not allow our rights to undermined. We also want like-minded people to know that they are not alone.”

Organizers are encouraging anyone who is unable to make the trip to the nation’s capital to join them in Newark.

Emily Artinian, one of the organizers, said that the march in Newark will be unique because “it starts with an hour-long vigil indoors, then is followed by a march, ending in a rally. The first segment really ensures that people who have any mobility issues — or who might not be able or want to attend an outdoor event/march — can take part.”

Ahead of the Jan. 21 march, Delaware organizers are planning to hold two conference calls for participants to get more information about logistics and ask any question they may have. For more details about those calls, which are scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., individuals are being encouraged to follow the Women’s March on Washington — Delaware Chapter Facebook page.

After being canceled due to inclement weather, a sign-making party for those attending the marches has also tentatively been re-scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 14, in Lewes. Information about that event can also be found on the group’s Facebook page.

The Jan. 27 issue of the Coastal Point will include the observations of Point reporters who will travel with one of the Sussex County buses to chronicle the event.

Fluoride, plowing and towing up for discussion in Selbyville

0
0

Parents be aware: Fluoride is not currently being added to Selbyville town water. The Town was given an exemption until their new water plant comes online.

Typically, local water plants must add fluoride as a public service to help strengthen children’s teeth. Families without fluoridated water may wish to discuss fluoride tablets with their children’s dentist.

Construction at the new supplemental water plant has been delayed by about 30 days because of materials acquisition issues. The end date for the project could be in May.

At the Jan. 9 meeting, Councilman Richard “Rick” Duncan Sr. reminded the council that they need to start thinking long-term for big expenses that are coming down the pike, such as a new water tower or water plant filters that are overdue for replacement.

He also offered an idea that could address Frankford’s and Selbyville’s water woes: “The State recommended [the Town of Frankford] talk to Selbyville about hooking into the Pepper Ridge tower, which is a great idea because we consistently have problems about the Pepper Ridge tower not turning over the water — the water gets stagnant, stuff like that, different chlorine levels. So I see the State and Frankford coming to the Town and asking about a joint interconnect there.”

Cars in a snowstorm: Move it or lose it

During major snowstorms and other governor-declared states of emergency, residents are required to move their vehicles from the road so that snowplows can get through.

Police Chief W. Scott Collins said the municipality has the power to tow vehicles parked on the road, especially if they impede plows.

“We don’t tow normally, unless it’s blocking [the road],” Collins said.

Town Hall sent an automated phone call through CodeRED to Selbyville residents before the Jan. 7 storm to remind them to make sure their vehicles were off the street.

All landlines in the town are registered for the calls, but people can edit or add information to the system by contacting the Selbyville Police Department, or online at www.selbyville.delaware.gov/pd-helpful-resources (click “CodeRED”).

In other Selbyville Town Council news:

• The new Town website is at www.Selbyville.Delaware.gov.

• Candidates may now register for the 2017 Selbyville Town Council election. Polls are scheduled to open Saturday, March 4. The deadline for candidate and voter registration is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, at Town Hall.

Three positions are up for election, which are currently held by Mayor Clifton C. Murray and Councilmen G. Frank Smith III and Clarence W. “Bud” Tingle Jr. Each position carries a two-year term.

Candidates must be at least 21; be a U.S. citizen; and a bona fide resident of the municipality at least one year before election day. Qualified voters must be at least 18; be a U.S. citizen; and be a bona fide resident of the municipality.

Details are available at town hall, at 68 W. Church Street.

• The town council will review the draft of Selbyville’s 2018-fiscal-year budget, with final approval likely in February. The fiscal year begins Feb. 1.

The draft shows a projected income of about $3.7 million, with expenses of $3.6 million. (That’s a decrease from 2017’s $3.9 million, which had been an increase from 2016’s $3.6 million.)

• Beginning this month, all Selbyville police cars should be equipped with mapping software that allows officers to see a digital map of crime scenes. Used by SusCom (Sussex County emergency dispatch service), the service would also show where police cars are and even identify radio microphone malfunctions.

• Mountaire sends a representative to council meetings to answer questions and investigate complaints. Eric Reeves is now taking on the role of Mountaire’s municipal liaison to Selbyville, as Jay Griffith’s duties at the poultry processing company have expanded.

• Flaming Pizza recently obtained a business license, with plans to open soon at 38555 DuPont Boulevard.

• After an executive session, the council voted to sell a piece of property at Victoria Forest. The developer had given Parcel #1 to the Town in lieu of completing the roadway. Selbyville laid the topcoat for the road and may sell the property through a Realtor, officials said.

• The town council unanimously approved more flexibility in the Residential District. Business activities are permitted in the residential district, but only with conditional-use permits. The council amended Zoning Ordinance 200-21 to expand the list of conditional uses permitted in the R-1 Residential District.

Previously, the code only allowed the council to consider customary home-based occupations or private swimming or tennis clubs. The new section will also allow “residential, neighborhood, commercial, business, office, or light industrial uses.” The business must benefit the neighborhood and not “adversely affect the public health, safety or welfare of the citizens.”

The change adds options but still allows the Planning & Zoning Commission and the council to approve businesses on a case-by-case basis.

The town council’s next regular meeting is Monday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m.

Millville council votes to increase state police coverage

0
0

Although summer is the busy season for the area, it appears that local crime increased this past autumn. As a result, police coverage will also increase in Millville. The town council voted this week to hire Delaware State Police troopers for up to 20 hours per week.

Councilwoman Valerie Faden started the conversation, using local crime data on the Delaware State Police website (dsp.delaware.gov — click “Crime”). People can search by geographic area, time range and crime.

“As I began to look at this … [in] the summer months, the crimes were in the single digits. But in the fall and winter months, the crimes were climbing into the double digits,” Faden said Jan. 10.

That’s surprising to some, considering the coast is more heavily populated in the summer (although the website only went live in mid-summer).

Lacking its own police department, Millville currently hires off-duty state troopers for about 12 hours per week.

Indeed, the DSP crime map shows Millville and the immediate area have suffered crimes including vehicle break-ins, burglary, fraud, shoplifting, vandalism and more.

Local police have repeatedly warned residents to take basic precautions to avoid being an easy target: lock vehicles, lock homes, install motion-sensor lights and report suspicious activity.

“Why are we just now hearing about this?” demanded resident Richard Shoobridge, asking why local newspapers haven’t published more about local crimes.

Susan Brewer suggested he ask the newspapers instead of the town council.

Mayor Bob Gordon suggested that crime follows opportunity, and wintertime means fewer residents.

Construction qualms

Although the overall project is under budget, the municipal building addition caused some frustration on the town council dais this week.

It took some time before the council unanimously agreed to increase fees to architects George, Miles & Buhr LLC (GMB). The original project was estimated at about $88,000, but their time has run over because of redesigns and additional time working with state agencies. GMB estimated that Millville should add up to $30,000 more to their project escrow account.

They had tried reducing their hours, said Millville Code & Building Administrator Eric Evans.

Faden questioned who oversees GMB’s timesheets and invoices, requesting more oversight in future contracts. Evans said Town Hall reviews them, but there’s a point, he said, at which they have to trust the contractor for hours spent in the office, not physically on the jobsite. He and Town Manager Debbie Botchie compared it to trusting an attorney for hours billed.

Evans also couldn’t promise that unexpected costs won’t pop up again. The blacktop might present unexpected problems, and it was just discovered that the sidewalk design must incorporate a tiny bridge for water flow

“We’re putting money into an escrow account, hoping that would cover everything,” just like any other developer in town, Evans said. Sometimes you come up on unexpected costs.

Councilman Steve Small said he was displeased to have seen the numbers only a few hours before the Jan. 10 council meeting, stating that he wouldn’t vote for a future extension with so little notice.

But Councilman Steve Maneri said the council had been notified more than a few hours beforehand, and Botchie said she had alerted council members even before she had collected specific figures and changed the agenda to include the escrow issue.

Dollars and changes

Facing unexpected costs before the fiscal year ends in April, the council unanimously approved a budget amendment of $16,579.

Using carry-over funds from the previous year, Millville will pay for the following new costs: $4,800 for town park grass mowing and maintenance; $4,077 for construction insurance for the new building; $2,500 for various service charges; $2,300 for Millville Volunteer Fire Company grants; $1,629 for town hall drywall, which was previously budgeted; $773 for cable/internet/security system equipment; and $500 for more health and dental insurance.

Faden said she didn’t like the idea of giving MVFC more money, but the percentage was already approved for the 2017 fiscal year. Because the original estimate was low, Millville is obligated to give the increased amount, to account for their higher-than-expected property tax income.

When the 2018 budget discussions begin in February, Faden suggested that amount “be revisited, especially because the fire company is getting funds in other ways.”

Neighborhood OK’d

The council unanimously approved Millville Town Center’s site plan for Section 2 of Sea Star Village, located in Millville By the Sea (MBS), featuring 18 lots. The overall neighborhood was cut into sections because of different sewer connections, the third of which is yet-to-be-determined.

Future roads will also be designed to reduce dead-ends and reduce congestion in some areas.

Although the plan included traffic-calming measures (speed bumps), the council opted to let the homeowner association decide specifically where those should go.

Town staff also reminded the developer that Millville’s town solicitor needs to review the HOA documents, just to ensure no roads or amenities are to be transferred to the Town. (“We’re not looking to get involved in terms of what neighborhood restrictions people want to have,” Town Solicitor Seth Thompson said.)

The next council meeting will be a town council workshop on Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.


Frankford Town Council discusses move, audit, drugs

0
0

Frankford officials are hoping to move all Town offices into the nearby former J.P. Court building at the beginning of March.

At its regular monthly meeting on Jan. 9, the Frankford Town Council said the move would be relatively inexpensive, as there is minimal work to be done and the building is “really set up well.” If the Town cannot move in by March 1, they hope to do so by April 1.

Although the council had planned to discuss the independent audit of the Town’s finances conducted by Jefferson, Urian, Doane & Sterner P.A., no one in attendance had questions, as many had yet to get a copy of the audit report.

“The short story of it: It’s a lot of the same things that have been pointed out in the last reports, that we really have no control over. The things we do have control over, we’ve implemented things to correct them,” said Councilman Marty Presley, noting there were consistent complaints of a lack of oversight.

Presley said that it is difficult to have close oversight of Town Hall when all five council members work full-time jobs and the Town is not able to afford a second employee to work in the office.

“The big thing we’re looking at as council are the things we can change… complaints about reconciliations of accounts,” he said.

Presley said a consultant was brought in to help “rectify issues” but could not immediately provide the person’s name or their salary.

As part of the move to the former court building, the Town is currently waiting on the sale of the existing police department building, which involves the town solicitor completing the subdivision of the land.

Presley said the Town also needs to evaluate the existing water plant to see if it’s a viable structure or if it would be more cost-effective to demolish the building and erect a steel building.

Police Chief Mark Hudson said that, of the 37 complaints in the month of December, 13 were heroin-related. During a check on a suspicious vehicle, Hudson said, suspected heroin, cocaine and needles were recovered. Although the driver of the vehicle fled on foot, he said, the passenger of the vehicle was arrested.

Hudson encouraged residents to be aware of the signs of drug use in others — including changes in behavior.

“Try to get some kind of intervention… Maybe you can help them before they overdose and die,” he said. “I’m looking more at helping them than making an arrest.”

Selbyville fair is ‘Just for the Health of It!’

0
0

Let’s get this new year started right!

That’s the message behind Selbyville Public Library’s upcoming health fair, Just for the Health of It! Scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 14, the event will run like an open house or trade fair. The public can come and go, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Booths will include cancer screening information; physical therapy, with hand massage therapy; a local dance and yoga studio; the Chamber of Commerce, with local health information; Beebe Healthcare screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol and more.

“And they tell you the results right here,” said Laura Armes, the library’s adult-services coordinator. “I’m really hoping its going to be interactive, a very busy afternoon.”

Guests can leave with a grab-bag of information and gifts, and they’re eligible to win prizes that include books on health and diet.

“The idea came to kick off 2017 and be healthy — get your screenings done, eat healthy, get exercise. That’s kind of the message. We need to get healthy. Let’s start off 2017 right,” Armes said. “I think it’s a good idea after holidays. We all indulge.”

Selbyville Public Library is located at 11 Main Street, at McCabe Street. For details, visit www.selbyvillelibrary.org or call (302) 436-8195.

Feds deny seismic testing permits for Atlantic Ocean

0
0

It’s Part Two in a major victory for those concerned about the impact of fossil fuel exploration on a clean, healthy Atlantic Ocean. Seismic testing has been banned in the U.S.’s Atlantic Ocean waters, for now.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) announced officially on Jan. 6 that six geophysical and geological (G&G) permit applications to conduct airgun seismic surveys in the Mid- and South Atlantic Planning Areas of the Atlantic Ocean had been denied.

Nine months prior, the Atlantic had been removed from the 2017-2022 Outer Continental Shelf Oil & Gas Leasing Program. So, without companies leasing the ocean floor for exploration (much less drilling for oil and natural gas), opponents argued, there was no good reason to allow the seismic testing that would pinpoint areas for such exploration. Under the Obama administration, BOEM agreed.

“Since federal waters in the Mid- and South Atlantic have been removed from leasing consideration for the next five years, there is no immediate need for these surveys,” stated BOEM Director Abigail Ross Hopper.

The administration also reasoned that, because of the areas had been removed from the lease program until 2022, any underwater surveys could become obsolete should, in the distant future, leases even be granted again, and that a less impactful technology could be invented in the meantime.

“In the present circumstances and guided by an abundance of caution, we believe that the value of obtaining the geophysical and geological information from new airgun seismic surveys in the Atlantic does not outweigh the potential risks of those surveys’ acoustic pulse impacts on marine life,” Hopper stated.

Two permit applications were for areas directly off the Delaware coast, with another four off the Maryland and/or Virginia coasts — some stretching all the way to Florida.

A seventh permit is currently under review — one using less-intrusive technology. (Since the process began several years ago, several applications have been withdrawn; two less-intrusive surveys were approved, although one permit has expired.)

There is currently no oil or gas exploration program in the Atlantic Ocean. The most recent lease sales were held in 1983, but those led to no oil or gas production.

“Today, we thank the Obama administration for finishing the job in protecting the Atlantic Ocean from offshore drilling activities,” stated Claire Douglass of the Oceana international advocacy group. “With offshore drilling off the table for the near future, there was absolutely no reason to risk the damage that would be caused by seismic airgun blasting in the region.

“Seismic airguns create one of the loudest manmade sounds in the ocean, firing intense blasts of compressed air every 10 seconds, 24 hours a day, for weeks to months on end,” stated the group.

“In addition to being extremely loud, these blasts are of special concern to marine life, including fish, turtles and whales, which depend on sound for communication and survival,” Oceana representatives continued. “Numerous studies demonstrate the negative impacts that seismic airgun noise has on ocean ecosystems, including reduced catch rates of commercially valuable fish and silencing bowhead whales.”

Underwater noise

In seismic surveys, ships carry airguns that shoot sound waves strong enough to penetrate undersea rock. The ships are also pulling several miles of “streamers” that pick up the waves reflected up from the undersea sediment. Sailing over thousands of square miles, they build a general map of areas considered worthy of further exploration for potential oil/gas reserves.

Seismic testing is the most thorough, but arguably most invasive, method for underwater surveying.

Every species reacts differently to the seismic blasts, said BOEM’s Stan Labak. Generally, big baleen whales are the most susceptible to damage from the blasts, because their hearing is in the same range as the seismic gun, followed by toothed whales and dolphins, pinnipeds (including seals and manatees), then sea turtles, which might hear the noise but are less likely to change their behavior because of it, he told Coastal Point in 2015.

Labak said seismic guns are different from Navy sonar, which has been the source of concern for potentially traumatizing whales with loud sonar pings that can disorient the whales — sometimes causing mass beach strandings.

But opponents haven’t been impressed by mitigation tactics meant to prevent excessive harm to sealife. After all, a seismic cannon must “penetrate two miles into the earth. That’s how deep it’s gotta go,” Delaware Surfrider’s John Doerfler said in 2015. How could nearby animals not be impacted?

Why survey?

As part of the U.S. Department of the Interior, BOEM “manages the sale and responsible development of off-shore mineral energy resources on the outer-continental shelf.”

BOEM had received about a dozen permit applications from various companies. Those ships (and a few planes) would have used various technologies, including seismic, to survey the Atlantic floor, in various spots from Delaware to Florida.

With that data, the U.S. would decide which spots might even be viable oil production sites. Only then could oil companies place bids for leasing those sites.

But after receiving around 1 million comments, mostly opposed, the DOI removed the Atlantic Ocean from upcoming plans for oil and gas development.

“We heard from many corners that now is not the time to offer oil and gas leasing off the Atlantic Coast,” stated DOI Secretary Sally Jewell in 2016. “When you factor in conflicts with national defense, economic activities such as fishing and tourism, and opposition from many local communities, it simply doesn’t make sense to move forward with any lease sales in the coming five years.”

In March of 2016, the DOI excluded the Atlantic for several reasons, including “current market dynamics, strong local opposition and conflicts with competing commercial and military ocean uses.”

This doesn’t mean the Atlantic Ocean will never go into oil production, but the move means a significant delay in any plans to do so.

Successful opposition

More than 100 East Coast municipalities had publicly opposed offshore drilling and/or seismic airgun use (including the seven beach towns from Lewes, Del., to Ocean City, Md.), many of whom officially commented during the BOEM permitting process.

Opponents included legislators, scientists, fishery management councils, garden clubs and Chambers of Commerce.

Comments ranged from the fears of an oil spill, which would impact local economies and wildlife, to it minimizing the Wallops Flight Facility’s offshore launch hazard area.

“This most recent move proves that, when we fight, we win. President Obama listened when we asked to be taken out of the five-year oil and gas leasing plan; he listened when we asked for permanent protection for our Mid-Atlantic special areas; and he listened when we asked for him to stop seismic blasting,’ said Caroline Wood, Mid-Atlantic Campaign organizer for Oceana.

“No matter what happens in this next administration, we have a powerful movement of people ready to continue defending our Atlantic.”

To learn more about the Atlantic G&G permitting process, visit www.boem.gov/Atlantic-G-and-G-Permitting. More information and maps are online at www.boem.gov/Five-Year-Program.

Cusick out, as South Bethany seeks new town manager

0
0

The Town of South Bethany is looking for a new leader for Town Hall.

After an executive-session meeting on Jan. 9, the town council voted to terminate the contract of Mel Cusick, ending his tenure with the Town of more than decade. He left that day, officials said.

Mayor Pat Voveris did not give further details into the departure, citing it as a personnel issue.

At this point, the council does not intend to appoint an interim town manager, said Voveris.

“I have a very capable staff … and will pitch in as needed,” she said.

Applications for the vacant post will be accepted until Feb. 14, and Voveris suggested a new manager should be hired within two months. Applicants will be vetted by a committee that will include Voveris, several council members and a hiring expert. The chosen applicant will be decided upon by a majority town council vote.

Job application and details will be posted on the Town website at www.southbethany.org and at town hall during regular business hours.

Council discusses development change

0
0

The Town of Ocean View this week held the first reading of an ordinance to amend a condition for the residential planned community of Ocean View Beach Club.

In 2016, Windansea LLC, the developer of the Ocean View Beach Club, requested to amend a condition that was placed on the property when it was annexed into the town in 2007.

A condition of approval was that recreational facilities — for example, swimming pools and community buildings — should be constructed and opened to residents no later than the time of the issuance of the 60th certificate of occupancy.

The site plan was approved; however, the recreational facilities have since been revised and increased to include not only an outdoor swimming pool but an indoor pool, tennis courts and bocce ball court.

Due to the increase in amenities, Windansea has requested to change the requirement to one that recreational facilities — swimming pool and community buildings — have be constructed and open to use by the residents no later than the time of issuance of the 80th certificate of occupancy, extending the timeline of the requirement from 60 to 80 certificates of occupancy.

The town’s Planning & Zoning Commission met in October of last year and unanimously recommended amending the condition from 60 COs to 80.

Shawn Smith, developer for Windansea, told the council that they have always said they would build an indoor pool and have even advertised the amenity.

“It has not been designed, and it has not been laid out completely yet. That’s why we don’t want to put any regulation on the number of COs. The other reason is that, when we originally had this annexed into the Town, the clubhouse itself was only a 3,000-square-foot clubhouse with a small outdoor pool. We’ve greatly expanded that, and we’re trying not to be limited by our number of COs and push it to 80.

“We have broken ground on the clubhouse. We’ve done all the grading on the pool… We have started, and the schedule to deliver the clubhouse and the pool is still on track for the summer of 2017.”

Smith said he had only fielded a few phone calls regarding the start of the project and when the amenities were expected to be delivered.

Derek Johnson, who recently purchased a home in the neighborhood, voiced his concern that Windansea would potentially request to further increase the CO requirements for the construction of amenities. Johnson was also concerned with the developer meeting its goal of a summer 2017 completion.

Mayor Walter Curran said that, while he understands homeowner frustrations, the Town can only control milestones of a development. He noted that this was the first reading of the ordinance and that there would be another public hearing on the matter in February, prior to the council’s planned vote.

MVFC gives thanks, bids in on sidewalk project

The Town recently received a letter from the Millville Volunteer Fire Company, thanking them for their “support and cooperation during the implementation of the municipal wide discount ambulance subscription program.”

“This program is a collaborative effort to serve our community’s growing population. We are thankful the Town of Ocean View Town council stands with us and sees the need for the financial support from all residents within the incorporated area.”

Also reported by the Town this week, the Town received four sealed bids for the Hunters Run ADA Ramp & Sidewalk Replacement Project. The lowest bid was $109,520, from Sam’s Construction. The Town’s engineering firm, Kercher Engineering, reviewed the bid and noted it met all bid requirements. The council voted 4-0 to accept the bid.

Public Works Director Charles McMullen also thanked his staff for their work preparing the Town for the holiday season, by putting up lights and decorating Town Hall, the Wallace A. Melson Municipal Building, and John West Park. He also commended them for their work plowing the streets during the weekend’s snowstorm.

“I think they did a wonderful job plowing,” he said.

Viewing all 3937 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images