Water’s Edge & Creamery Are Back!
Dan and Mary Nelson re-opened Water’s Edge Restaurant & Creamery at 1108 West Main Street near the City Dock to a packed house on Valentine’s Day. They have decorated the interior with a rustic charm that also captures the local culture, and they continue to offer homemade dishes of comfort foods and crab delights. The menu matches their slogan: “A taste of home”. Thursday night is “All-you-can-eat fried chicken,” and March 12th at 6:30 pm they are having their first Paint Night with a palette painting lesson by Dan. Contact them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/crisfieldwatersedgecafe/ or call 443-754-7122 to sign up. The spots are filling up fast, so act quickly. It’s good to have Dan and Mary back. They were missed.

New City Mural Coming This Summer:
If all goes according to plan, the brick wall at 347 West Main Street is going to be receiving a makeover by internationally-known artist Michael Rosato. There, Mr. Rosato will be painting a vibrant mural depicting our seafood workers and other illustrations that will reflect the culture of Crisfield. Specializing in large scale paintings, his work can literally be traced from sea to shining sea, from Virginia to Puerto Rico. Namely, however, is his renown work in Cambridge with his Harriet Tubman murals and the Chesapeake Country Mural Trail in Dorchester County. Expect to see him hard at work sprucing up the look of our town in the early summer. This project is sponsored by the Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, the Somerset County Arts Council, the Maryland State Arts Council, the Department of Housing and Community Development, and the Crisfield Arts & Entertainment District Project. Additional funding is being sought for the remaining funding needed.

Yard and “yART” Sale:
The Crisfield Arts & Entertainment District is hosting a yard sale on Saturday, April 4 from 7:30 am to 12 pm, but that’s not all we’re in for. A traditional city-wide yard sale will be combined with a yART sale. yART sale = Yard sale + art sale! Residents and businesses are encouraged to sell art supplies and original artwork along with their yard sale goods and can submit their location at CrisfieldArts.org so locals and tourists will know where to go. Updates with locations will be announced on the WBYC 107.3 Crisfield Community Radio station Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WBYC1073/.
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Want all the benefit of decluttering with none of the work of hosting a sale? Support the Crisfield Community Radio Station, WBYC 107.3, by donating items. Donated items can be dropped off at the Somerset County Arts Council Gallery, 1100 W Main Street in Crisfield, Tuesdays through Fridays from 11 am to 2 pm.  Items will be sold to benefit the Crisfield Community Radio station on April 4 from 7:30 am to 11 am at their station, 4 N Seventh Street, Crisfield. This event in early spring is an opportunity to clean up, clean out, and beautify with art. It’s a win-win-win, and I hope you will participate in one way or another.

Model Car Races:
Following the Yard & yART sale on April 4th, Crisfield will be having its first Crisfield Art on Wheels model car race at The Crab Place at 504 Maryland Avenue from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. This free event is sponsored by The Crab Place, the Crisfield Arts & Entertainment District Project, Captain’s Carry Out, and Sam’s Auto Center. Participants must register in advance. See https://www.crisfieldarts.org/events for more details and how to register. It’s going to be a lot of fun!
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Crisfield Nominated for Hgtv’s “Home Town Takeover”:
Crisfield has been nominated to be part of the new HGTV show “Home Town Takeover” where a group of renovators travel from town to town revitalizing old communities. The submission was a team effort from a Crisfield Facebook group. Adam Durham’s company, Modulation Studios, produced the video which was submitted. The video included drone work from William Johnson, and creative consultation from people in the Arts & Entertainment District. It can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/DkgA9rcAmEI

The group who did the submission did so because they believe that Crisfield comes from a rich heritage that spans across centuries, and they hope to receive word from HGTV that it has been chosen for the show very soon. Fingers crossed!

Strong Women of the Eastern Shore Art Exhibition:
In response to Governor Larry Hogan’s call for 2020 to be “The Year of the Woman” and “Women’s History Month”, the Somerset County Arts Council announced Strong Women of the Eastern Shore, an exhibition of five lower Eastern Shore artists. From March 9 – March 31, the West Main Street Gallery located at 1100 W. Main St. will present work by five extraordinary Eastern Shore artists:

1. Salisbury’s Petra Bernstein was born and raised in the German countryside, where she learned to appreciate nature at an early age. Her artwork ranges from close-up photographs and paintings of flora and fauna to abstract interpretations of nature’s mysteries. Living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, she incorporates the everchanging environment of the Wicomico River into her work.
2.  Katie Brown is a mixed-media artist living in Berlin. She studied studio art at the University of Mary Washington, and after graduation she interned at the Smithsonian Institution’s Office of Exhibits Central, assisting in the model shop. A native to the Eastern Shore, Katie returned in 2013 to begin working at the Art League of Ocean City, where she became Gallery Manager.
3. Megan Burak is a painter who uses painting as a form of storytelling. She says, “I strive to create a number of different narratives within a single frame. Life is complex and strange, and people have individual reactions to the things they go through.  My intention is to allow the viewer to use the events in their life as a way to connect with the stories of my paintings and, in turn, form a story for themselves.”
4. Angela Herbert-Hodges creates original watercolor paintings. She grew up in a small village in the rolling countryside of Cumbria. Having lived and worked in London, Paris, Spain, and Zimbabwe, she’s now taken root on the Eastern Shore as a Contemporary Watercolorist. She uses papers, Gouache and pencil to create vibrant paintings of landscapes, people, and African wildlife.
5. Last, but not least, there is Erica Matthews, a photographer and active advocate for art education on the Lower Eastern Shore. She lives in Salisbury and manages her photo studio, Dream Images, where she captures the beauty and mystique in her subjects with a use of color and light that transcends description. She received her B.A. in Applied Design/Commercial Photography from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 2013.

What are you doing between March 9 and March 31? Why not plan to visit the Somerset County Arts Council Gallery, see the work of these Strong Women of the Eastern Shore, and be inspired? An opening reception with light refreshments will take place on Friday, March 13th from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. Come out and meet the artists!

New Crisfield Business Directory:
The City of Crisfield is aiming to boost the online presence of its businesses via targeted advertising from April to June. Additionally, they’ll be creating a business directory website of all local Crisfield businesses through a grant provided by the USDA. Local business owner Linda Singh has been selected to develop the directory and marketing plan for the City. She will create press releases for broadcast, print, online media outlets and unique travel/event websites within a three to five-hour radius of Crisfield. This will be a real boost to local businesses because it will attract tourists to Crisfield and help them find businesses once they arrive. Kudos to the City for this initiative.

Other upcoming events in March:

March 19 Open Mic at the Corbin
6 pm.  Corbin Studio and Gallery, 4 East Main Street, Crisfield.  All types of performances are welcomed, including written word, music, and rap.  For more information, please visit crisfieldarts.org.

March 21 World Poetry Day Celebration
2 – 4 pm.  Corbin Studio and Gallery, 3 East Main Street, Crisfield.  Volunteer haiku-rock-painting-party and bench dedication led by Babs McGrory of Vowel Mouth Poetry & Pi-ku Poetry.  For more information, please visit CrisfieldArts.org.

March 23 and March 30 American Cruise Lines’ American Constitution in port at Crisfield
So, once again, we have things moving in a positive direction in Crisfield. It all adds up. If you combine what’s in this newsletter with what was in the previous one, you’ll see 40-50 new projects in the works. We’re still in the middle of winter, but it’s exciting to me to see that things are continuing to mount up as we advance toward our summer season. I truly believe by the time we get into the season you will see the impact of significant progress here. Keep the faith…

Great things are happening in Crisfield!

Best regards to all,
Charlotte

Charlotte Scott, President
Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc.
PO Box 144
Crisfield, MD 21817
www.greatercrisfieldmd.org
410-251-1669

*The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc. (GCAC) is a 501(c)3 not for profit economic development corporation run by an all-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”  — Margaret Mead, anthropologist

New Restaurant to Open Later This Month:
New owners, Adrienne Stanley and her husband Adam, are preparing to open their new restaurant at 4012 Crisfield Highway, formerly known as The Gathering Place. They have named their restaurant From Scratch and, as the name implies, everything will be made from scratch. Doesn’t that sound so appealing? Adrienne’s family is from Tangier Island, and her great, great grandmother, Hilda Crockett, opened the Chesapeake House on Tangier Island 90 years ago. Today, many of the family are watermen, so the owners will use these connections to obtain fresh seafood for their dishes.

New Shop to Feature Smoked Salsa and Local Foods:
Stevie Ritchey moved here from Georgia with her husband and three kids four years ago and is opening Mason Dixon’s Pantry at 1001 West Main Street near the City Dock this Spring. Her shop will feature her own slow smoked salsa along with other foods by local artisans. She plans to meet with local artisans and sample any items they are interested in selling in her store. Artisans would need to be compliant either with the Maryland cottage law or FDA and all shelf stable. She said she hopes to support as many local artisans as she can! In addition to smoked salsa and other food items, she will also offer her photography work for sale. Currently she has been repainting the space and making changes inside the building to accommodate her needs. She plans to hold a Grand Opening in the Spring. This new shop will offer something unique in Crisfield. Sounds like a good fit for tourism and for local buyers and sellers.

New Bike Rack Design Competition Sponsored by A&E:
According to A&E Coordinator Jen Merritt, the Crisfield Arts & Entertainment District Project, working with the City of Crisfield through a grant received from the Maryland State Arts Council, is soliciting designs for art bike racks to be placed in various locations in the City of Crisfield. This artistic competition for bike rack designs will award $500 to each of the top three applicants as determined by the Crisfield Arts & Entertainment District Project board.  All applicants must be Maryland residents.  Two-dimensional or three-dimensional drawings will be accepted and may indicate a design to be fabricated or modified to a pre-existing bike rack.

Design proposals will be accepted from January 2020 to April 2. Selection of award winners will take place by April 15. This planning grant is designed to lead to an application for an implementation grant in May. Applicants do not need to have experience with three-dimensional design but should be ready to work with a fabricator to modify their design if needed upon selection. Applications can be found at crisfieldarts.org/bike-rack-design. This is a great complement to the new Bike Trail that is being built here.

What Else Is New…?​

1. Dan and Mary Nelson will be re-opening Water’s Edge Restaurant in the Spring.
2. Eric Banks is preparing to open Barbeque by the Bay near Captain’s Tyler’s Crab House. He also plans to put a seafood market there.
3. We have a new Golf Cart Sales & Rental business coming downtown.
4. The new $5 million Bike Trail is 50% completed and ahead of schedule. Still to come are trees, landscaping, signage, and paving including a parking lot. It is set to open by June 1st.
5. Spectrum has a new location near Food Lion and offers cell phones along with cell phone service
6. GCAC is planning a Seafood Workers Mural to be located in the uptown area.
7. GCAC is starting a Youth Entrepreneur Program for area youth.
8. GCAC will begin tracking key indicators of economic growth and publicizing the results quarterly.

The Boating Trend in Crisfield Is Up:
The number of boats in Somers Cove Marina is on the rise, with last year being the highest of the last three years. Building on new marketing efforts and events, Executive Director Tom Schisler is booking live music for 10-12 weekends this summer, six of which will be open to the public as well. This represents an increase over the five weekends of live music total last summer. Booked for three nights of entertainment is Dalton Elliot, a country singer songwriter who debuted in last year’s American Idol as a contestant chosen by judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Ritchie.

Attracting boaters to Somers Cove Marina is a matter of marketing and exposure. According to Tom, of the 300 marinas he has visited, Somers Cove Marina is “the best”. Tom may sound biased, but I have heard this myself many times over the years. Others have pools, but not as big or as nice. None have a nicer floating dock, nor more amenities than Somers Cove.  So, kudos to Tom for promoting the marina and adding entertainment. What’s good for the marina is good for the town, and vice versa!
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COZY CORNER COVE SET TO OPEN FEBRUARY 1ST:
Mike Corbin, owner of Hoyt Harbor at 4459 Crisfield Highway, is expanding into the adjacent building to open Cozy Corner Cove, a cozy dining area where you can eat-in and enjoy a relaxing dining experience. The new space will seat 30-40 patrons, enlarging Mike’s current square footage by 50% and enabling him to better accommodate locals and tourists who want to sit down and enjoy their meal.
Currently, one of his top sellers is his wife Della’s Crab Dip. Crab Pops made from softshell crab pieces is another favorite, and people from Delaware, Pocomoke, Salisbury, Ocean City, and Virginia come to enjoy his delectable crab cakes. Mike’s family is from Smith Island, and as a young wife, his mother learned to cook and bake from her mother-in-law, who “took joy in creating a meal.” His wife learned from his mother, but she has also developed her own “secret” recipes, including her Smith Island Cake recipe which stands out for its ability to remain moist longer. In addition to the seafood, chicken, and pizza choices, the menu for Cozy Corner Cove will contain a broader list of breakfast items, including waffles and pancakes.
Along with eat-in dining, Mike will also increase his selection of gift items and souvenirs, sunglasses, cards, and magnets. The new Bike Trail runs in front of Mike’s property, and he plans to do more out near the trail when it is completed. “I’m for anything that comes that builds the economic structure of the Crisfield area,” he told me. “The new Bike Trail will benefit the park, it will bring more people here, and the town will feel the ripple. In my mind, it’s a gift.”

Cedar Island Marsh Chosen Best of the Bay:
Chesapeake Bay Magazine has chosen Cedar Island Marsh in Tangier Sound as “Best of the Bay” for birding, hunting, and fishing. According to Captain Chris Dollar, “For the skinny water angler, it’s about as close to perfection as you can get – clean water, rich habitats, abundant forage, and, most importantly, plentiful gamefish.” I took a picture of the marsh from Norris Harbor Drive several years ago and used it on the GCAC website. It was an honor to have the magazine contact me for permission to use it with their announcement of the award. You can read the account at: https://chesapeakebaymagazine.com/wild-chesapeakes-best-place/
Congratulations, Crisfield, for being acknowledged as a favorite place on the Chesapeake Bay because of its wildlife and natural beauty.
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Many Improvements Coming in Crisfield’s Commercial District:
Ten applicants to the State’s façade improvement program have been approved, according to the City’s Circuit Rider, Kristie Eberly, and most of the renovations are underway, although some are waiting until Spring. Applicants like Sam Davis plan to spend much more than the $10,000 grant award as they upgrade their properties and prepare for the 2020 Season in Crisfield. In fact, Sam and Mary Frances have already made improvements on their own to the interior of Captain’s Carry Out, adding dining tables and chairs and a bathroom for patrons.

The following were awarded $10,000 grants each and are required to use 50% on exterior improvements and 50% on the interior on their buildings in the commercial district:

1. Tim & Doris’s Country Store and More
2. Captain’s Carry Out
3. Somerset County Arts Council Gallery
4. John Phoebus Law Firm
5. Crisfield Arts Syndicate
6. Cary Slipper
7. Steve Raab
8. Suzanne Smith and Joyce Morgan
9. Bunting Family Ltd. Partnership
10. Vincent Kenney

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In addition to the above, Captain Tyler’s Motel is currently undergoing a complete renovation and upgrades of all twenty rooms. This includes new flooring and fresh paint along with new mattresses and furniture.

MeTompkin Bay owners recently completed Phase One of a major upgrade to their facility. They added a new cool storage building with a new ice machine on top and raised floors 18” over two thirds of the building using local contractors. This gives them a better supply of ice for their seafood operations and has made their work much simpler and less labor intensive. They will complete Phase Two next year. Over the years, MeTompkin Bay has been generous to allow Elder Hostel groups, students, and others to tour their operations and see the processing of seafood here.
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Also, Linton’s Seafood and The Crab Place are making improvements before the 2020 Season due to growth and expansion needs.

Somers Cove Marina Addressing Drainage Problems:
Somers Cove Marina Executive Director Tom Schisler told me the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is committed to finding a way to fix the flooding caused by poor drainage during heavy rains in Crisfield. Most of the City’s rain water drains through the marina, and several drains have totally collapsed. DNR engineers have completed their work on assessing the problem, and next steps include accessing the funding and breaking ground on resolving the issues. This is another major step forward in improving the City’s infrastructure and complements the work the City is already doing to clean out the ditch system throughout the town, starting with the most commonly flooded areas. These two initiatives will go a long way to enabling rain water to drain properly and avoid flooding issues throughout Crisfield.

Is that enough ‘good news’ for you? Actually, there is more major news on the horizon as we await official word on the merger between Peninsula Regional Health Services and McCready Health. This could result in a $25 million expansion and bring up to 200 jobs to a location just north of Crisfield. And, of course, I am remaining hopeful that along with that we will see Crisfield get the Hotel & Conference Center the business community has been longing for.  I anticipate having a newsletter devoted entirely to that very soon. Meanwhile, be content with only 33 pieces of ‘good news’ today — with many, many more to come! All this promises to make 2020 a HAPPY NEW YEAR indeed!

Best regards,
Charlotte
Charlotte Scott, President

*The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc. (GCAC) is a 501(c)3 not for profit economic development corporation run by an all-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors
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Note: You can see the upcoming Crisfield and Somerset County events on the Somerset County Tourism website at: https://www.somersetmd.us/departments/departments_-_n_-_z/tourism_offices/more_community_fun.php

The second factor, he said, are the Crab and Cruises sponsored by The Crab Place. “People think the Crab & Cruise people come in for the event and leave, but they don’t. A lot of them stay overnight and stop here to buy seafood on their way back home. Those cruises have a ripple effect around Crisfield. One business bringing people to town helps another.”

The third factor is Janes Island State Park. According to Harvey, “The park is huge. Campers from the park come in here every day. At night, there may be 25-30 customers from the park alone. Even though it’s past the season, the park is still packed.” Harvey and Octavia told me they are getting customers from the region but also from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, and even “a lot from Massachusetts and Rhode Island”. They’ve had customers from all over including people from England, Norway, and even a guy who drove from Oakland, California who enjoys traveling and seeing the country. “With more and more traffic coming, people need more places to stay. They need a hotel to stay in so they won’t have to stay in Salisbury as many do. I’m really hoping we get the proposed Hotel & Conference Center. It will help everyone.”

​These biking groups like to travel together and take trips to different bike trails around the state and region. The Georgetown trail is out in the country, so he felt Crisfield has an advantage in that there are businesses located along or near the trail. These bikers will need beverages, food, and rest stops. They also may wish to shop and even stay. As he said, “Wait to see what happens… This will bring a lot of people to town!”

​As a result of the growth of their business and the coming of the Bike Trail, Harvey and Octavia will be expanding next spring. First, they will expand the deck which currently seats 140 people with 9 outdoor picnic tables that will seat even more. Harvey foresees the need for more seating because even now there are times he has to seat his overflow at the picnic tables. To handle the demand, he recently purchased a new large cooler, and he will be adding another building to house a boiler and more steamers. People don’t invest thousands of dollars into expansions and new equipment if the growth isn’t there. Harvey sees the opportunity for his business, and he’s preparing for what’s coming. As he told me as I was leaving, “I’m gearing up!”

Julie Swift now joins the four-agent office along with Melissa, Tim Carson, and Erin Pruitt. “Tim is the thorn in the midst of three roses,” she joked. In addition, Melissa will be renovating the back of the building next year to accommodate two more offices for anticipated future growth.​

​Melissa said their clients fall into two categories: local people who want to upgrade and need more space; and people from out-of-town looking to relocate. They see a lot of buyers from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the Baltimore/DC area, many of whom are retiring. Melissa said people express three main reasons for their interest in making Crisfield their home: the friendliness of the people, the appeal of living in a waterfront town, and the affordability of property compared to the metropolitan areas they are coming from.

Melissa not only made Crisfield the headquarters for her real estate business, but she is purchasing a home here as well. “I see Crisfield growing. It is becoming stronger and better. Overall, property values are holding and starting to rise. I look forward to having the new medical services here and the Hotel & Conference Center. The National Association of Realtors and the Maryland Association of Realtors travel to conferences every year. Crisfield could become one of the places they go for conferences each year…” But even before those opportunities become a reality, Melissa is feeling blessed based on the buyers she is seeing and the interest of people in making Crisfield home. That’s why she is preparing for even greater success in 2020!

Spectrum Mobile Coming to Crisfield​
Spectrum Mobile will be expanding its services in Crisfield at their new location in the small shopping center near Food Lion. The store is being renovated to accommodate their needs and will have iPhones, Samsung and Google Pixel phones on display along with three sales areas when completed. Spectrum will offer same day activation and phone plans as low as $14 a month total including all taxes and fees for data by the gig and $45 a month total for unlimited data plans. Spectrum offers their phone plans for customers who have their Internet services, and no contract is required. According to Store Specialist Tronika Brown, Spectrum plans are “45% cheaper” than other plans because they “have done away with line access fees.”

Spectrum already has an office in Crisfield near City Hall mainly for cable and Internet services and is expected to move that office to the new location as well. This is great for Crisfield because many people have had to go to Salisbury or Pocomoke to purchase a cell phone. I got my iPhone from Verizon in Salisbury, and that’s almost a 100-mile roundtrip from my home. This will be a real convenience for Crisfield residents and a first! Spectrum hasn’t made an official announcement, but they are anticipated to open before Christmas, and it’s likely they will be open seven days a week. Isn’t that ‘Good News’ for Crisfield?!

The Gathering Place to Re-Open Under New Ownership
Less than a week after the owners closed due to personal reasons, The Gathering Place at 4012 Crisfield Highway went under contract with new owners. The buyers are local people who will offer home cooked meals, and the word is we can “expect great food!” If the settlement process goes according to schedule, they will open before Christmas. I was sorry to see the restaurant close, but I am excited that it will re-open again and soon. Once known as Circle Inn, that property has been open as a restaurant for 20+ years, and it fills a need in Crisfield for more good dining options for locals and visitors.

Main Street Getting New Storefronts
The City of Crisfield recently used a state grant to offer grants to several local businesses to help with the cost of improvements to their property on Main Street. As a result, five applications have received state approval and five more are pending. Among those approved are Tim and Doris’s Country Store, Somerset County Arts Council Gallery, and Captain’s Carry Out downtown. In the uptown area the properties of Steve Rabb and Vincent Kenney have been approved. Among those which are pending are three large properties in the uptown area. The grant requires that the property owner match the grant funds which are up to $10,000 each. In talking with the City’s new grant writer, Kristie Eberly, the City anticipates being able to offer grants for façade and interior improvements again in 2020. You can see that these improvements will add up slowly and surely toward giving Crisfield’s commercial district a facelift. From the renderings I’ve seen, we can expect to see some dramatic improvements to properties in our business district by May 2020. I can’t wait to take pictures of the completed work! 

City Determined to Address Flooding Issues​
I commend Mayor Barry Dize for his leadership in addressing the flooding issues in Crisfield. One of the ways the City is doing that is to clean out the ditch systems. So far, they have identified and are attacking the top problem areas for flooding. They completed cleaning out the ditches on both sides of South Somerset Avenue leading to Woodson School and on to the connection of Lorie Quinn Drive. Then they completed cleaning out the ditches that connect to Hall Highway and help reduce flooding on Hudson Street and Wynfall Avenue. Next week they will install two new storm tiles on Brick Kiln Road, following that soon after with ditch cleaning there. This will help ease flooding on Crockett and Walnut Streets. Reports are that it is already making a difference. Unfortunately, Crisfield had not had funding to address the ditches for many years. As a result, workers found things like a moped, bicycles, and five-gallon buckets. Mayor Dize has made this a priority of his administration and is committed to not only getting all the ditches cleaned out, but also checking and maintaining them after this is done. This is a big step forward for Crisfield, and I commend the Mayor and all those involved for getting it done.
Further, the City has obtained a grant for $150,000 from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the Department of Natural Resources, and the Coastal Zone Management Program to study the flooding and drainage issues in Crisfield so the City will know what else they can do to fix the problem.

Through engineers and other experts who will do mapping of the system, the City will learn more about what can be done and pursue the necessary funding. A second grant from DHCD for $52,000 will aid the City in the development of a Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan to lay out priority needs and costs. Both these grants will take the City another step forward in addressing the City’s infrastructure needs.

More Tidbits of ‘Good News’​

1. Linda Singh, owner of The Bay Gift Vault at 952 West Main Street, learned from her Ocean City and Chincoteague customers that they enjoy coming to Crisfield’s Wellington Beach because it’s clean, parking is close by, and it has convenient bathrooms and a soda machine. These are all things they said they don’t get where they come from. Our beach is small, but for some people, it’s just fine. After they enjoy the beach, they make a stop at The Bay Gift Vault to do some shopping. Customers appreciate the art, handmade jewelry, giftware, handbags, and other unique items they don’t find anywhere else.
2. Not only that but the City will be putting a new Kayak Launch at Wellington Beach. Officials say it will be handicap accessible and ready for use by Spring. It will make a great place to launch a kayak, and it will give visitors and locals one more thing to enjoy. 
3. I talked with Sonny and Donna Ford, owners of Bayside Home Center at 404 Crisfield Highway, who have been in business in Crisfield for 30 years. They said they “do better every year.” Many of their customers are locals, but they also serve the retirees and others who are moving into the area and making improvements to the homes they have purchased.
4. John Townsend of John’s Auto at 3 Jacksonville Road said his business has been steady. He says when new people come to Crisfield, they ask around, and many times others refer them to John. If John can’t help them, he refers them to other local repair shops like Tawes Brothers, Sam’s Auto, and Jed’s. “We are blessed. It’s overwhelming, and I’m thankful to every person who deals here,” John said. People who move into Crisfield appreciate the services John and others provide. I know I do! 
5. Clint Sterling, Director of Somerset County Recreation and Parks, shared some interesting research about the spending habits of bikers riding the country’s bike trails. He said day trippers spend $30-50 each, and overnight bikers spend $150-200 each per day. That’s money into the pockets of our restaurants, convenience stores, motels, and gift shops. Imagine hundreds of them coming each month. No doubt the new Bike Trail will have an economic impact here as it draws visitors who will be hungry, thirsty, and perhaps looking to browse around and shop for a t-shirt or souvenir from Crisfield.

 
See the bottom of this email for November events in Crisfield.

I don’t know about you, but I’m excited! Crisfield is moving toward being that unique destination we’ve been talking about… We have to lay the foundation with good infrastructure, improve the appearance of our town, add new businesses and attractions, and bring tourists here to enjoy what we have to offer. It’s happening, folks! Every little bit helps, and eventually the big things really push us over the top. It’s going to be a beautiful sight when it all comes together, and I believe we are almost there! I am making a list of topics for my next newsletter, and I can tell you I already know of several things not ready for publication including two new businesses coming in the Spring, another local business that’s expanding, a newly purchased commercial building that will be renovated early next year, and more… It’s nice to see the forward movement.

As you can see, I anticipate having much more ‘Good News’ in the December/January newsletter, but I wouldn’t be surprised if something happens before then that I just can’t wait to share! Stay encouraged, folks, and keep the faith. Great things are coming to Crisfield in 2020!

Best regards,
Charlotte
Charlotte Scott, President
Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc. — a 501(c)(3) non-profit community development corporation)
PO Box 144
Crisfield, MD 21817

www.greatercrisfieldmd.org​​
410-251-1669

November 30 – FOOT Prints Matter
9 am – 1 pm.  Corbin Studio and Gallery, 4 East Main Street, Crisfield.  Bring your little one and make a keepsake of their footprint or handprint on Vermont slate.  For more information, please visit their Facebook event page.

November 30 – Small Business Saturday:  Shop Local in Crisfield
Small Business Saturday is a shopping holiday held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.  Support your town and community and get unique items in Crisfield.  Free promotion for all Crisfield businesses.  Contact arts@crisfieldcityhall.com with information about deals.

November 30 – Small Business Saturday at The Bay Gift Vault
15% off everything plus the first 24 customers will receive an $18 value Crisfield Soapstone Coaster 4-pc. set as a gift with purchase while supplies last.  For more information, please call 917-575-0467.

November 30 – Christmas Art & Craft Fair
9 am – 1 pm.  Corbin Studio and Gallery, 4 East Main Street, Crisfield.  Admission and participation is free.  Please go to crisfieldarts.org to register.  Space is limited.  Presented by the Crisfield Arts and Entertainment District Project.  For more information, please email arts@crisfieldcityhall.com.
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November 30 – Miracle on Tenth Street
3 – 7 pm.  Tenth Street, Crisfield.  Special appearance by Santa & Mrs. Claus, Lighting of the Crabpot Christmas Tree with Mayor Barry Dize. Cocoa, cookies, and train rides.  Vendors and food.  Christmas shopping opportunities.  Singing Christmas Carols with Mayor Dize and Santa.

GREAT HOPE GOLF COURSE SURGING FORWARD!

Great Hope Golf Course, just 16 minutes north of Crisfield on Route 413, is an outstanding golf course that is becoming even better. The 18-hole Championship course designed by world-renowned golf architect Dr. Michael Hurdzan and rated #2 in Maryland by Golf Advisor, had a good year last year, and this year is proving even better. In fact, Clint Sterling, Recreation and Parks Director, told me this year’s golf season revenue is up 32% over last year. Wow! That’s huge.

The pass also provides a 10% discount in the Pro Shop and restaurant. They have sold over 250 of these passes since April and as a result they are seeing a lot of new faces and repeat visits. The offer will end at the end of the year, so you might want to purchase a pass for yourself or buy some to give as Christmas presents. Go to www.greathopegolf.com for more information.

Clint also attributes their success to the loyal golfers in the region who have been members for many years. Last and most important, he attributes their growth to the dedication of the staff. If you look at the testimonials on their website, you’ll see how many people acknowledge the service and friendliness of the people who run the course and make it what it is. Great Hope Golf Course is one of Crisfield’s assets. People who live here or visit here want to have things to do, and golfers enjoy having an outstanding course nearby that is well-maintained and managed. Kudos to all who are making it happen! Keep up the great work at Great Hope.

McCREADY HEALTH PAVILLION COMING IN 2021

At a time when many rural hospitals are closing due to a lack of sustainability, the leadership of McCready Hospital, known as McCready Health, has negotiated a deal that will keep many medical services here. McCready Health and Peninsula Regional Health System (PRHS) have reached an agreement for the purchase of McCready by PRHS, and a new facility will be built 3.5 miles north of Crisfield on Crisfield Highway. Final approval is set for November 1st. The 22-acre property has already been purchased and is expected to open as early as 2021. It will be known as the McCready Health Pavilion and will offer many services including 24/7 emergency care, physical therapy, speech therapy, behavioral health services, family medicine, and imaging and lab services. Surgery and inpatient care will be handled at Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury.

The people I have encountered were professional, competent, efficient, and, most of all, caring. Every time. It means a lot when you are in crisis and even when you are only having routine tests. With the agreement that has been reached, these services will continue. We can be very thankful for that.

I know change is hard. Our tendency is to resist it. But my experience has been that as hard as change is, good always comes from it. In this case, we are getting a new, state-of-the-art facility that will be sustainable and will be away from the wetlands to eliminate the possibility of parking lots flooding at high tide. The initial facility is expected to cost $25-28 million, with room for expansion later on.  The original facility did not have room for expansion. We are blessed to keep a medical facility here instead of seeing McCready Hospital closing its doors with no alternative care facility. Crisfield owes thanks to the forward thinking and hard work of the Board and leadership at McCready Health.

YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR PROGRAM IN THE WORKS:

The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition (GCAC) will be planning and implementing a Youth Entrepreneur Program over the winter in hopes of launching a few small business enterprises in Crisfield by next Spring. A program will be developed that will assess candidates and select several young people in our community to learn the skills needed to start their own business. Roughly 14% of the U.S. population is starting or running a new business, and one study showed that 71% of young people expressed interest in having their own business. The program will likely pair young people with local mentors and may help form partnerships or teams to enhance the skills and resources needed for the business. Ideally, new businesses will provide goods or services that cater to Crisfield’s tourists as well as our fulltime residents.

BUBBY’S WING SHACK IS EXPANDING:

By the end of September, Bubby’s will have expanded into the third storefront attached to their current location at 1108 West Main Street. The space formerly housed the Crisfield Creamery, and Bubby’s will continue to sell Hershey’s premium ice cream, but they will add many other sweets and treats including salt water taffy, homemade fudge, candy by the pound, and their homemade barbecue sauces. In addition, they will offer flavored specialty coffee and sell Bubby’s t-shirts. When I was there on Wednesday, both rooms were busy, and people were enjoying the scenes from the booths looking out over the waterfront and the variety of seafood, soups, and salads on the menu. It’s a bold move to expand going into the off season, but Renee and Mike Mears are hardworking restauranteurs who enjoy operating a business where they can provide a good dining experience and share a bit of Crisfield with those who come downtown.

SEAFOOD WORKERS MURAL ON ITS WAY

The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition is now positioned to move forward on plans to commission a mural depicting Crisfield’s seafood workers at work in the heyday of the seafood industry in Crisfield. These workers, along with the watermen, were the backbone of Crisfield’s economy and deserve recognition as playing a significant role in our history. One artist being considered for the work is Paul Boyd III who did the mural on Route 13 in Salisbury that was completed recently. (See attached picture.) If things go according to plan, the new mural in Crisfield will be completed over the winter. A location uptown is our first choice, but that has not been finalized. The mural will add beauty, vitality, and historical significance to Crisfield’s streetscape, and I look forward to sharing more details as we proceed in the months ahead.

 ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES ANALYSIS UNDERWAY

 Using Hurricane Sandy funds, the County has hired the Sage Policy Group to conduct a study that would provide an analysis of the economic opportunities and potential for growth in Somerset County, with particular focus on Crisfield. The study will review previous studies as well as collect input from focus groups comprised of community leaders. Several focus groups have already met, and the analysis is well underway. Among the outcomes to be included in the study are evaluating existing plans and strategies, evaluating the potential of tourism, identifying missed opportunities, discovering what issues are preventing a full recovery, and developing long-term and short-term goals.

According to the Request for Proposals (RFP), “The outcomes will include a market analysis to determine the types of businesses that could be supported based on information related to spending patterns in the County and region. It will also include a feasibility analysis of commercial and industrial real estate to determine quality and quantity. Additionally, it will include preliminary architectural design and structural analysis of commercial buildings in the City of Crisfield that were impacted by flooding and a workforce analysis… The study will provide relevant, usable information as to rebuilding a sustainable economy that is able to support its residents.” According to Economic Development Executive Director Danny Thompson, “The cost of the study is $80,000 and is expected to be completed mid-November.”

GCAC TO BEGIN TRACKING GROWTH IN CRISFIELD

Inspirational speaker Zig Ziglar said, “You can’t hit a target you cannot see, and you cannot see a target you do not have.” With that in mind, by the end of 2019, GCAC will have identified several indicators of growth in vibrant communities and will establish a baseline of where Crisfield is now as compared to where we want to be. For example, GCAC will collect data on the number of jobs in Crisfield, the number of businesses, the number of tourists who visit, and sales or tax revenue. Other indicators we may include could be the number of hotel rooms and occupancy, the number of new and renovated residences, and the amount of private investment. With that data as a baseline, we will collaborate with community partners to set goals and then track growth (or decline) quarterly and publicize the numbers in the County Times, in our newsletter, and on our website and Facebook pages.

We will also attempt to identify factors and strategies that are contributing to the results so that what is working can be supported further. There is data that is collected annually by various organizations such as the Somerset County Tourism office, the Somerset County Economic Development office, and the Census Bureau. Our purpose will be to break apart this and other data we collect with a focus on Crisfield and on what is most meaningful to our people: jobs, business growth, and vitality. Hopefully the study being done by the Sage Policy Group will be helpful in guiding our effort. Stay tuned. This is one of the secrets to unleashing Crisfield’s future: setting and tracking goals!

CONCLUSION

Last, thanks to the Somerset County Tourism office, we have a calendar of coming events for the area. At the bottom of this email, I have included many activities going on in Crisfield in September. I hope you will take advantage of the cultural, historical, and culinary offerings I know you will enjoy!

To conclude, here we are at the end of the season, and Crisfield continues to bloom with new shops, new art venues, and growth in existing enterprises. And, I already have a list of 6 more exciting coming attractions that are not quite ready for publication. Crisfield continues to be on the rise. Please pray for Crisfield, its people and its future. Please show up and partake in the great things we already have going for us. And please keep the faith as we continue to strive to become all we are destined to be!

Best, Charlotte

Charlotte Scott, President
Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc.*
PO Box 144
Crisfield, MD 21817

www.GreaterCrisfieldMD.org
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410-251-1669
*The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization, run by an all-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors

September 14 – Original Ward Brothers Workshop Open House
10:30 – 2 pm.  3195 Sackertown Road, Crisfield.  Welcoming visitors to explore the Workshop, which is preserved in a state much like it would have been during the Ward brothers’ lives.  Additional open house dates are September 19, October 5, and October 19.  For more information, please call 410-968-2501.

September 14 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – New Skool – 90’s-00’s R & B/Hip Hop
4 pm crab feast; 6:30 pm cruise. This event has premium crabs measuring 6 1/4″ up to 8″! DJ Adam Dutch will be mixing up the R&B/Hip Hop hits from 90’s and 00’s on the upper level of the cruise, as well as providing the music during the feast in the restaurant. 97.5FM DJ, Big Mark, will be playing on the lower level. And Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.   For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com.

September 20 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Old School 80’s R & B
4 pm crab feast; 6:30 pm cruise. This event has premium crabs measuring 6 1/4″ up to 8″! DJ Flea will be playing the Old School R&B hits from the 80’s (with a few 70’s thrown in) on the upper level of the cruise while 97.5FM DJ, Big Mark, will be rocking the dance area on the lower level. Earlier in the day, DJ Adam Dutch will be setting the Old School vibe on stage and Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.  For more information, call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com.

September 20 – Water/Ways Photo Contest Opening Reception and People’s Choice Selection
5 – 7 pm.  Somerset County Arts Council Gallery, 1101 West Main Street, Crisfield.  Sponsored by the Somerset County Arts Council and Somerset County Library.  For more information, please visit facebook.com/events/635495493629878.

September 21 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – 90’s—00’s R&B/Hip Hop
4:00 Crab Feast & 6:30 Cruise DJ Adam Dutch will be mixing up the R&B/Hip Hop hits from 90’s and 00’s on the upper level of the cruise, as well as providing the music during the feast in the restaurant. 97.5FM DJ, Big Mark, will be playing on the lower level. And Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.  For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com.

September 21 – “A Taste of Smith Island” Dinner
5 pm.  Boat leaves Crisfield for Ewell. Cruise followed by dinner.  Enjoy cream of crab soup, a crab cake, clam fritters, corn pudding, sweet potato fluff, string beans, coleslaw, stewed tomatoes, rolls, coffee/tea and authentic Smith Island Cake. Tickets are $55 and advance tickets are suggested. Limited ADA. Crisfield-Smith Island Cultural Alliance 410-425-3351/ www.smithisland.org.

September 27 – Crisfield Legacy Dinner
6 – 9 pm.  J. Millard Tawes Historical Museum, 3 Ninth Street, Crisfield.  A tribute to Crisfield native Norris “Scorchy” Tawes and recognition of Handy Seafood’s 125th Anniversary.  Limited tickets available.  $50 each.  For more information, please call 410-968-2501.
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September 27 – Tangier Classic Fishing Tournament
6:30 am – 2 pm.  American Legion Post #16, 116 Lorie Quinn Drive, Crisfield.  Tangier Classic is a light tackle fishing tournament in Crisfield, Md. Anglers compete 2 out of 3 days across 3 divisions. Whether you fish from a boat or kayak, please join them while they celebrate the abundant fishing opportunities of the Tangier Sound and raise money for Lane Dodson.  For more information, please visit www.tangierclassic.com.

President Buddy Ward put the project on the Chamber’s agenda for consideration and scheduled Mr. Miller to make a presentation. After listening to a detailed presentation and having many questions answered for a clear understanding of the project, former Chamber President Bill Buttrill made the motion to endorse the project. I asked Bill what prompted him to make the motion, and he said, “The mission of the Chamber is to promote businesses throughout the Crisfield area. We feel that the revitalization project as presented by Peck Miller on Thursday embodies the spirit of promoting our local businesses. We as a Chamber want to go on record as being in favor of any project that will enhance the business atmosphere in the City of Crisfield. To that end, we have voted to endorse the Hotel & Conference Center project and Mr. Miller’s vision for revitalizing Crisfield.”

Former Mayor Kim Lawson also voted in favor and weighed in on the endorsement saying, “I think anything that offers improvement for Crisfield, especially something of the scope that this project entails, ought to be looked at in terms of its benefits to the City.” Peck Miller expressed his appreciation for the endorsement, saying, “We are moving forward, and I am optimistic, hopeful, and thankful for the Chamber’s support.”

In my opinion, the Chamber endorsement is a BIG DEAL. It’s rare for the Chamber to take a position to endorse, perhaps because opportunities like this are rare. After all, this is a $30,000,000 project with a potential ripple effect of at least $50,000,000. The last time Crisfield had a major revitalization opportunity of this size or greater was in 2006, and that one got swept away. Perhaps it wasn’t the right project, the right time, or the right people. But this is a new opportunity to build the ‘New Crisfield’, and many agree with me that it couldn’t come at a better time. So, I take my hat off to the Crisfield Chamber of Commerce for taking a strong stand in favor of moving things forward, and I look forward to seeing what happens next!

CRISFIELD’S FIRST ART GALLERY DOWNTOWN:

​Previously, the Somerset County Arts Council was located at 26430 Burton Avenue north of Crisfield’s downtown with limited space for exhibits. With their new location, they are already seeing many more visitors than they ever did before.

Interestingly, the move was made possible by investment from local businessman Jay Tawes who recently purchased the property and made renovations based on the Arts Council’s needs. I particularly love the floors, which are a polished concrete design giving light and gloss to the overall appearance. What an asset the Art Gallery is to downtown Crisfield as we continue to improve as a tourist destination. Thank you, Somerset County Arts Council. And thank you, Jay Tawes.

​GOLF CART RENTALS COMING TO DOWNTOWN:

A new golf cart business will be located downtown across from the planned Hotel & Conference Center’sproposed location in Crisfield.Plans are to open sometime in the coming year. The company currently has golf cart rentals in other neighboring towns and has completed settlement on the purchase of their new location in Crisfield. Besides rentals, they will also sell new and used golf carts.This will be Crisfield’s first primary golf cart business, and it will lend itself to what our growing tourist population wants and needs. Golf carts are being seen more and more in Crisfield following legislation passed last year that permits golf carts on all City streets. I will provide more details about this business when it comes closer to its opening date.  It will provide another boost to tourism in Crisfield!

​The new Crisfield Creamery, which had its ribbon cutting in April, has proven to be a real hit in Crisfield. It is located next to Bubby’s Restaurant near the waterfront and is owned by Dan and Mary Nelson. I challenge you to find another ice cream shop that is as quaint and charming as this one is with its 50s décor in red and white with black and white floor tiles. They serve many varieties of Hershey’s premium ice cream, including my personal favorite:

​Turtle Sundae, a combination of butter pecan flavored ice cream, pecans, and chocolate syrup with reduced fat and no sugar added for a 150-calorie treat. That’s if you can stick with a half cup serving! Last weekend when I was there, I saw families, a grandmother with her granddaughter, couples, and locals I knew. With its generous seating area, it makes a great place to meet up with friends and talk while enjoying an ice cream cone, sundae, shake, or banana split. It’s part of summer fun, a treat for the kids, and a real plus for Crisfield.

NEW $5,000,000 BIKE TRAIL CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY:

Construction is now beginning on the 5.6-mile Bike Trail set to run from Crisfield to Marion. Beginning near the Brew Thru in Crisfield and ending just south of the turnoff to Route 667 in Marion, each end of the Bike Trail will have a parking lot with lighting, a bike rack, trash receptacles, and benches. This week the contractor began to stake out the trail and establish sight lines. Next, they will begin clearing the area. All trees will be stumped for the entire length of the trail and later ground up. They will keep some existing trees as well as make significant landscaping improvements all along the trail. It should make a nice entry into Crisfield as people drive into town and again when they are leaving.

The planners of the Bike Trail, including Donnie Drewer, retired State Highway Regional Engineer, who played a major role in obtaining support for the project and Clint Sterling, Somerset County Recreation and Parks Director who wrote the grants, had three purposes in mind: First, the trail is a public health initiative to help residents and visitors improve their health through biking and walking. Second, it is a tourism initiative to acquaint visitors with nature and provide outdoor activities here. And third, it will result in beautification of the scenery leading into Crisfield as they replace 30 years of random tree growth along Route 413 from Crisfield to Marion.

The trail is expected to be completed by this time next year. Meanwhile, County leaders have already made Phase Two a transportation priority with the State and have started looking for funds and developing designs. Once Phase One is completed, they will be ready to go “full steam ahead” with extending the Bike Trail to Westover, according to Clint Sterling. The Third and Fourth Phases would connect the trail all the way into Princess Anne, making it unique on a national scale. It is possible that all phases could be completed in the next 5-7 years. I know it has taken a lot of effort and time to get to this point, and I commend all those who played a part. Good things come to those who wait. And work. And believe!

BUGEYE DECK TOURS AT CITY DOCK AUGUST 24:

According to Crisfield Arts & Entertainment Coordinator Jennifer Merritt, the “Edna Lockwood”, the last historic sailing bugeye in the world, will be visiting the Crisfield City Dock at 1201 West Main Street for the August 24th Crisfield 4th Saturday Bay Stroll, as part of a National Park Service-funded heritage tour around the Chesapeake Bay.

​In an article submitted by the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, we learned this about the bugeye: “Built in 1889 by John B. Harrison on Tilghman Island for Daniel W. Haddaway, Edna Lockwood dredged for oysters on the Chesapeake Bay through winter, and carried freight—such as lumber, grain, and produce—after the dredging season ended. She worked faithfully for many owners, mainly out of Cambridge, Maryland until she stopped “drudging” in 1967. In 1973, Edna was donated to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum by John R. Kimberly. Recognized as the last working oyster boat of her kind, Edna Lockwood was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1994.

​This 4th Saturday event is part of the Water/Ways Smithsonian traveling exhibit programing for the J. Millard Tawes Museum. The bugeye will remain at the dock through Thursday, August 29th although visitors will only be able to board her on August 24th from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. During this time, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum staff members will offer free deck tours, giving guests a chance to explore the bugeye while she’s docked. This is truly a unique opportunity you should plan to take advantage of.

MUSIC AND ART IN CRISFIELD ON THE 4TH SATURDAY IN AUGUST:

Crisfield 4th Saturday Bay Strolls celebrate local art, food and music on the Chesapeake Bay. On Saturday, August 24th, bring a lawn chair and relax to live music with Kaleb Brown, sponsored by the Crisfield Lioness Lions.  Washington High School students from teacher Scott Smith’s class will have a water-themed artwork exhibit at the Customs House near the City Dock, 906 W Main Street. Live art will be taking place with Plein Air painting by nationally recognized artist Debra Howard. Other artists are welcome to join in and paint on-site.

​ARTIST DEBRA HOWARD IS A WINNER:

Crisfield resident Debra Howard has been an artist and adventurer her entire life. She studied at Ringling School of Art and began her art career in San Francisco. Needing a break from the computer, she provisioned her 44’ sailboat with art supplies, her dog and her daughter and began cruising. She eventually arrived on Tangier Island in 2009 to accept the position of Artist-in-Residence and Director for the Tangier History Museum. After years of traveling and painting from a sailboat, she switched from sailing to camping, traveling with her dog Bear in her RV trailer and competing in plein air events from April to November. She is known for her strong brush strokes and an emotional quality to her original landscapes.

As an award winning plein air artist, she has been juried into Plein Air competitions in Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Maine, Florida and Virginia. She was voted Best Visual Artist in Charleston, SC in 2007 and was the 2016 Artist-in-Residence for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the 2018 Artist-in-Residence for Big Cypress National Preserve.

Each year Debra hosts and sponsors the very popular PLEIN AIR CRISFIELD in conjunction with the 4th Saturday Bay Stroll in May. Forty artists arrive in Crisfield to paint, and the event ends with a Wet Painting Sale.
She will be painting live at the 4th Saturday Bay Stroll in Crisfield on August 24th from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.  After all her travels, she chose to reside in Crisfield because, “Crisfield is the last of the real Chesapeake, and I find inspiration from its beauty and authenticity.” For more information about Debra, see http://www.artistdebrahoward.com

“WHEELS ON THE WATERFRONT” EVENT A HUGE SUCCESS THIS YEAR:
According to “Wheels on the Waterfront” Assistant Chair, Jesse Drewer, it was “absolutely the best year in the 13 years of having it.” They estimate they had 275 Classic Cars and Trucks this year as compared to 175 last year. That’s A LOT of cars and trucks! And crowd attendance was really strong as well. You can view Jesse’s drone video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QIc6SEWPRbc.
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John Tawes was the Chair for the event with the Chamber of Commerce as the sponsor. All proceeds will go to Crisfield’s Arts & Entertainment District. Good job, everyone!

OTHER HAPPENINGS IN CRISFIELD THIS MONTH:

The Somerset County Tourism office reported on several other exciting activities going on in Crisfield this month. They include:

August 9 – 10 – Smokin’ on the Dock of the Bay BBQ Competition
10 am – 9 pm.  Crisfield American Legion Post #16, 116 Lorie Quinn Drive, Crisfield.  No entry fee, bands and music for 2 days. Come see the Competitors cook their hearts out for a chance at victory in this Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned event. Food vendors will be selling food. For more information, please visit http://www.facebook.com/events/927813410920901/

August 9 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Old School R & B
4:30 pm Crab Feast and 7 pm Cruise. This event has premium crabs measuring 6 1/4″ up to 8″! DJ Flea will be playing the Old School R&B hits from the 80’s (with a few 70’s thrown in) on the upper level of the cruise while 97.5FM DJ, Big Mark, will be rocking the dance area on the lower level. Earlier in the day, DJ Adam Dutch will be setting the Old School vibe on stage and Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion. For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com.

August 10 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Classic Rock
4:30 pm  Crab Feast & 7 pm Cruise.  DJ Flea will be playing all of the Classic Rock hits from yesteryear on the upper level of the cruise. Earlier in the day, DJ Adam Dutch will be setting the Rock & Roll vibe on stage and Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.  For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit  – www.crabandcruise.com

August 10 – Performance:  The Waterman’s Daughter
Doors open at 7 pm; play starts at 8 pm.  Corbin Studio & Gallery, 4 East Main Street, Crisfield. Admission is free.  This one-woman show follows Lilyan Corbin’s life story from when she ran away from home in 1898 at age 16 to her success on stage and screen; from her marriage to the silent film star Frank Campeau to her books Reno, Homing, The Wife’s Lessons, and The Feminine Philosophy.  Wine, beer, water, & soda available for sale.  Donations welcome and benefit the Crisfield Arts and Entertainment District.  For more information, please visit www.crisfieldarts.org.

August 16 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Celebrity R & B
4:30 PM – Crab Feast; 7 PM – Cruise.  All JUMBO Crab Event.  Hailing from Santee, SC, DJ Cleve hosts impressive parties all over the world. A former DJ guest on BET’s Rap City, DJ Cleve’s credentials are quite impressive. If you’re one of his 180,000 Facebook followers that tune in for the Thursday night FB Live Old School Mixes.  For more information, call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com

August 17 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Celebrity R & B
4:30 PM – Crab Feast; 7 PM – Cruise.  All-JUMBO Crab Event. Hailing from Santee, SC, DJ Cleve hosts impressive parties all over the world. A former DJ guest on BET’s Rap City, DJ Cleve’s credentials are quite impressive. If you’re one of his 180,000 Facebook followers that tune in for the Thursday night FB Live Old School Mixes.  For more information, call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com

August 17 – Cruise and Crab feast
5 pm crab feast; 7:30 pm sunset cruise.  Set sail aboard the Chelsea Lane.  Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you cruise through a quaint island in the Chesapeake Bay, enjoying our Raw Bar complete with sodas and mixers to accompany your BYOB.  Eat at “Captain Tyler’s Crab House”, One Crab Cake, One Soft Crab, All you can eat Steamed Crabs, Corn on the Cob, Fired Chicken, Hush Puppies, Cole Slaw, Macaroni Salad.  Beer Pitchers and Soda with Smith Island Cake for Dessert.  Crab feast & Cruise $109.00 per person.  Crab feast Only $69.99 per person.  Make a full evening of it and spend the night at Captain Tyler Motel or Cove BB.  For more information Call 410-968-2220.
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August 19 – Viewing Party for WBOC’s Small Town Series – Crisfield edition
5 – 6 pm.  4 East Main Street, Crisfield.  Community viewing party begins at 4:30 PM at the former Corbin library, 4 E Main Street. Everyone is welcome to bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

August 24 – Bay Gift Vault presents Artist Doug Rayfield
4 – 7 pm.  The Bay Gift Vault, 925 West Main Street, Crisfield.  Meet artist Doug Rayfield in person.  Beverages and snacks will be served while you mingle with the artist and learn more about his paintings.  For more information, please call 917-575-0467.

August 25 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – Old School R & B
4:30 pm crab feast; 7 pm cruise.   DJ Flea will be playing the Old School R&B hits from the 80’s (with a few 70’s thrown in) on the upper level of the cruise boat while music plays throughout the boat on both levels. Earlier in the day, DJ Adam Dutch will be setting the Old School vibe on stage and Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.  For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com

August 26-September 1 – 72nd Annual National Hard Crab Derby & Fair
Somers Cove Marina, Crisfield.  Crab races & picking, parade, boat docking, carnival, arts & crafts, seafood, entertainment, fireworks. ADA. Crisfield Area Chamber of Commerce 410-968-2500/800-782-3913/www.crisfieldchamber.com. $ for some events.
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August 31 – Crab Place’s Crab & Cruise – MTV 80’s
6:30 pm crab feast; 7 pm cruise.  It’s an all ’80s MTV-style party. It’s a themed event so dress like Madonna, wear your long hair, and come ready to win prizes for best dressed. DJ Flea will be playing all of the 80’s classics on the upper level of the cruise boat. Earlier in the day, DJ Adam Dutch will be setting the Retro 80’s vibe on stage, and Hurricane Hazel will be providing crab-picking demos during the feast portion.   For more information call 877-328-2722 or visit www.crabandcruise.com

​August 31 – Crisfield Mud Bog
Crisfield Elks Club, Crisfield.  For more information, visit Facebook.com/CrisfieldMudBog.
As you can see, there’s plenty going on in Crisfield this August, and I hope you will participate in as many activities as you can while we still have this warm and wonderful weather. And, by the way, I already have a list of ‘good news’ topics for the September newsletter. Things are continuing to look UP in Crisfield!

I want to close by expressing my gratitude. I am grateful for all those people out there who love Crisfield and want to know what is happening and want to be a part of life in Crisfield. I am also grateful for all we have been blessed with. I remember when we did the Action Plan for Crisfield in 2016, we composed a list of assets. In the beginning, we said let’s come up with about 20 of our most significant assets. We did that rather quickly, but then there were important things we left out. What about the park? What about the marina? What about the sunsets…? And on and on. In the end we came up with about 60 assets, so many more than any town in our region. (See www.GreaterCrisfieldMD.org/Plan and click on Part Three for the List of Assets.)

When I say we are blessed, I mean we are BLESSED!  So, with good people like you who care and who help all that you can and with the abundance of blessings the Lord has given us, I know we can look forward to seeing Crisfield become the place we have been dreaming it could be. Remember, good things take time, and hard work pays off as we keep the faith. And meanwhile, enjoy today and what’s left of the ‘Summer of 2019’.

Best,
​
Charlotte

Since the pause on GCAC activities 120 days ago, other leaders in the community have come forth to help carry on the mission of revitalizing Crisfield and to rally around the Hotel & Conference Center project brought forth through GCAC with Peck Miller. During this time, many of us have been attending and speaking out at City Council meetings so the Mayor and City Council will know that the community supports this project and wants Crisfield revitalized. Through our unified efforts, seven major accomplishments have occurred during the past four months:

• UNANIMOUS CITY ENDORSEMENT BY A VOTE OF 5-0: On May 22, according to the approved minutes, Councilwoman Gail Lankford made a motion “that the Mayor and Council endorse the Hotel/Conference Center project and form a committee to provide support for it. Councilman Sheppard amended the motion that a Steering Committee would be formed to seek funding and volunteered to Chair the Committee. Motion seconded by Council Vice President Johnson… Motion carried unanimously 5-0.”

 

• COUNCILMAN SHEPPARD FORMS STEERING COMMITTEE: Once the Council voted to endorse the project, Councilman Sheppard began to identify people in the community to be on the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee held its first meeting on July 1st and approved naming the committee the Crisfield Revitalization Committee (CRC). Their first order of business is to get a letter from the City Council giving the Maryland Stadium Authority the go ahead to do a “Gold Standard” study that will open up the opportunities for funding from the state for various components of the project that are not privately funded.

 

• MEETINGS HELD WITH KEY STATE AGENCIES: Meanwhile, following the vote of unanimous support by the City Council, Peck Miller, with the assistance of Senator Mary Beth Carozza, began to set meetings with state officials regarding the project, including Tom Kelso, Director of the Maryland Stadium Authority; Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources; Steve McAdams, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community initiatives; and Secretary Kenneth C. Holt, Department of Housing and Community Development. At each meeting, Peck was met with enthusiastic support for the ideas presented for Crisfield’s revitalization. Tom Kelso and Secretary Holt were both intrigued by the possibility of coordinating the construction of certain parts of the project with Crisfield’s infrastructure construction, which could save time and money. Councilman Sheppard was able to attend two of these meetings, one in Annapolis and one in Baltimore, and heard for himself the support and enthusiasm offered by state officials.

 

• CONTRACTS EXTENDED ON PROPERTIES FOR PROJECT: At the same time, the original contracts on the properties within the downtown development area started to run out. Peck Miller contacted each of the property owners and got extensions on all but one property. That property may not be part of the development or it may be included as things proceed. The other property owners are enthused about the opportunity for revitalization and have given their full support. Having contracts on these properties is a key component to the development because investors and state officials want to know that we have site control.

 

• SIXTY BUSINESSES SIGN PETITION IN SUPPORT OF PROJECT: In April, Sam and Mary Frances Davis took it upon themselves to write up a petition and go to local business owners asking them to sign in support of the Hotel & Conference Center project. Mary Frances said she was not sure how many would sign, but once she started asking, she found the owners not only willing to sign, but eager to sign. “The business owners in Crisfield are really excited about this project. Some of them are struggling, and they see this as a way to sustain their business. Others are doing well, but they know they could do better. This has given everyone hope.” Among the businesses who signed were the owners of Tangier Island Cruises, John’s Auto, Salon One, Captain Tyler’s, Goldsborough Marine, Bay Gift Vault, Landon’s Flowers, Evans Boats, Gordon’s, Wilson Realty, Bubby’s Restaurant, The Crab Place, and Linton’s Seafood. In the end, Mary Frances and Sam had no trouble getting 60+ signatures, which they then presented to the Mayor and Council in May.

 

• 85% OF THOSE WHO VOTED IN POLL SUPPORTED PROJECT: In April, a popular “Crisfield, Maryland” Facebook page put up a poll asking people to vote yes or no to the question, “Are you in favor of or opposed to a hotel / conference center in Crisfield?” The poll was up for one week, and amazingly over 1,000 people voted. Of those, 853 or 85% voted in favor of the project. Not only did the poll show the voting totals and the percent, it also showed who voted for and against. Of the 853 who voted for it, there were many local business owners, but also the Superintendent of Schools, teachers, lawyers, business professionals in the area, Crisfield Heritage Foundation leaders, and other local and regional citizens. It showed a wonderful cross-section of our community.

 

• CITIZENS FOLLOW COUNCIL THROUGH VIDEO STREAMING: Another interesting development is that people have taken a great interest in what is happening at City Council meetings thanks to the live streaming provided by Eric Banks on his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/eric.banks.71?epa=SEARCH_BOX. For example, at a Work Session held on June 12 in regard to the Hotel & Conference Center, the video Eric posted has gotten 585 views. In my experience on City Council, the norm would be 4 or 5 people showing up at City Hall that didn’t have to be there. Some nights it was 2 or 3. Now the room is full or almost full because of this project, and hundreds of others are watching the video of the meetings on Facebook. It underscores the level of interest and support people have in this opportunity for Crisfield, and it shows that people are no longer apathetic, discouraged, or disinterested. They are instead engaged, interested, and hopeful. I have never seen the level of positive energy in Crisfield like this in my lifetime. The unity is powerful, and it is turning the tide.

So, for those of you who haven’t been following this closely, what is this project and how did we get to here…? The facts are that GCAC met with Peck Miller, an Ocean City developer and project manager, last October in Ocean City, asking him to tour Crisfield and give us ideas for how we can revitalize. In November, he came with his wife and business partner, Patti, and Jeff Schoellkopf, an architect he has worked with for many years. After seeing all the assets and opportunities Crisfield has, he and his partners began to develop a vision for a comprehensive plan to revitalize Crisfield.
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The plan he envisions begins with a Hotel & Conference Center downtown on the waterfront with open views to the east and west over the bay, marina and marshes.  The Hotel and Conference Center would be adjacent to a Central Park or “Watermen’s Memorial Park”, which would have grass and trees with paved areas and used as a venue for events as well as for occasional markets, relaxation, and a community gathering space. The vision is to connect the marina to the downtown, and includes commercial and restaurant improvements, raising new infrastructure and buildings, support for remaining working waterfront areas as much as possible, and a Parking Garage to control the flow of traffic downtown.

There are several other components to the plan as well. A second phase would include redevelopment in the uptown area. Also, an outdoor amphitheater with covered seating could be constructed as a concert venue. Peck also sees opportunities for RV and Yacht Parks as well as for mixed-income townhouses in various locations around the City.
In his presentation to the Mayor and Council on February 13, Peck made five points that were the highlights of his presentation:

1. He anticipates the Model Block to be completed in the next three years – Summer 2022.
2. He said Crisfield can be a “model for other small towns across America” who are struggling with the same problems we have here.
3. He sees 3 or 4 Hotels in Crisfield, perhaps within the next six years, as tourism grows and development continues. The first Hotel will be a catalyst and an anchor. This project, which could total around $50,000,000, will have a ripple effect that will attract even more private investment. The hardest part is always getting the momentum started, which is what this public-private partnership will do.
4. The plan ties together two of Crisfield’s greatest assets – the park and the marina – into the downtown.
5. The plan shifts views toward the east and west, which will take advantage of sunrises and sunsets in the downtown area, one of Crisfield’s greatest assets.

He has also answered questions raised by the City:

1. Will the project have private funding? Yes, the hotel and restaurants will be built with private funding.
2. What will the project cost the City? The City will not be asked to contribute funding to this project. However, when the hotel is built, tax abatements will be requested for a set period of time (typically 5-10 years), during which time current tax levels will be maintained.
3. Will the project compete with the City’s efforts to obtain funding for needed infrastructure? No, the state has assured us that their commitment to infrastructure improvements and the project construction can be done simultaneously without any negative impact on funding for infrastructure.

In getting to this point, I commend the people who attended City Council meetings and Work Sessions representing a cross section of our community and who spoke in favor of the project. Here is a sample of the remarks that were made:

Phil Riggin, member of the Long-Term Recovery Committee, the Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, the Somerset County Economic Development Commission, and Somerset County Tourism.
“Since 2013, I’ve attended more than 50 meetings focused on the idea of a Hotel and Conference Center in Crisfield. In 2014, a report written by the Economic Development Task Force was submitted to the Mayor and Council right here in this room.  As Chairman of the Task Force, in two City Council meetings, I presented their findings which included a critical need for a Hotel and Conference Center. In recent months, we’ve seen the idea revived again with a more comprehensive revitalization plan presented by Mr. Peck Miller. I’m excited to see the plan being actively supported by leaders at both the County and State levels, and I’m very excited by the expressions of support by local citizens as part of a social media survey which produced more than 1000 respondents with 85% in support. In addition, a letter of endorsement from dozens of business owners was presented to you in the last few weeks. The combination of these letters, reports, surveys, and plans I believe is a mandate for action. If I were sitting in your seat, I would consider this a mandate for action. Therefore, I am asking you to do the right thing and vote to support the concept of the revitalization plan that has been presented to you.”

Greg Cain, founder and CEO, The Crab Place:
“I’m here on behalf of the Hotel and Conference Center. I want to talk about why we are where we are. I’ve been looking at data going back to 2000, and you can see a downward trend to where our household income is now about half of the national average. Looking at unemployment, in 2000 it was 6.5% when the national average was 3.7%. Our unemployment rate has been steadily growing and now it’s at 15%. When you look at the number of people who are at or below the poverty level, Crisfield’s poverty level is as high as 45%, while the national average is 14.6%. So the question is why? In going up against Baltimore and DC or other larger cities that are doing much better, is it because they have better people? No, you know that isn’t the case. But the fact is they have better trade opportunities. They are not better than us, but they have expanded their trade boundaries. Some Crisfield businesses have done that too, like the seafood companies, Sherwin Williams, and even my own company. We have expanded our trade out of the City. Why the Hotel and Conference Center is so important is that it allows outside trade opportunities to come to us. Trying to trade amongst yourself like restaurants, gift shops, and carry-outs have to do, it’s hard to make a living because of our poverty level. But seeing the Facebook poll and the business petition, it is showing you that for the first time, Crisfielders have hope. We can turn these numbers into more like the national average by expanding our trade boundaries and working together to take us to a better place. A lot of people are struggling, and this is an opportunity to push us forward. The Hotel and Conference Center is the start of changing things. That’s our future. I know this opportunity won’t last forever, and I implore you to support this opportunity.”

Darlene Taylor, Executive Director of It Takes a Village, an After-School Program:
“The best way to help our children is to help their parents. For me, this is about tourism, but it’s really about jobs. Hotels provide opportunities and jobs for our people. I grew up here, I love this town, but I had to leave here in order to make a living. That should not have to happen for our kids or their parents. This project will provide an opportunity for our people to be able to stay and do something here.”
Frances Martinez-Myers, real estate and relocation specialist:
“The Hotel Project will be the most important step in our economic development, creating many jobs at many levels, BUT the most important thing it will do is to set in motion a significant business development response from various ancillary service businesses, including from local people who have been afraid of making a financial investment here. It will, without a doubt, attract more tourists, new residents and business from neighboring towns. We will be on everyone’s radar and that is a good thing. It will help us be more than a one season town.


This will be the gift that keeps on giving to Crisfield and its residents. The effects of this endeavor will grow year over year. It will stimulate the real estate market as more people come to town, absorbing or replacing old inventory. Property values will rise, increasing equity. Equity can help fund business ventures, education, retirement and definitely impacts government tax rolls. The project will help local people get on their feet and participate in the overall economy. It will give our young people reasons to come back after college because there will be something here for them. When the tide rises, all boats rise.


I am requesting the City formally and publicly endorse the Hotel Conference Center and Park Project. Opportunities like this don’t come often. We know you all love Crisfield and want the City and your residents to thrive. This is a legacy moment for all of you. You can be the Council that drove the change that brought Crisfield back to the thriving city it used to be, OR you can be the Council that stood in the way of Crisfield’s comeback. Who brought Mr. Peck to Crisfield doesn’t matter and no one cares. The only thing that matters is Crisfield’s viability, and time is running out.”


Jay Tawes, local businessman:
“We’re not here to protest. We’re not here to protest at all. We’re here to encourage you to vote in favor of a plan for this community to move forward. We’ve got a golden opportunity here with a man [Peck Miller] sitting here with 35 years of experience… The business community is crying out to you right now. We want economic development. We can make a difference in this town. Let’s unite and win the economic development battle for this community.”

Reverend Ervin Wallace, Jr., Pastor of Shiloh United Methodist Church:
“I support the Hotel & Conference Center project because it adds to the business of revitalizing Crisfield. The project covers two key components of local revitalization, which are: One, the creation of employment that helps expand the City’s employment opportunities for its citizens; and Two, the project will help existing businesses such as the marina. As a pastor in this town, I see this as a project that will allow Crisfield to finally lead the way in showing the entire Lower Shore what it means to care about the economy and its people while also being a sure example of what town revitalization should look like. This is a good start as a way to fight back against the poverty that we are too used to on the Shore. Therefore, I urge you, the town officials who love this town too, to support the Hotel and Conference Center project.”
So, as you can tell, this project has been officially before the Council since February and there has been considerable support from the citizens and business community. The hope was that at Wednesday night’s City Council meeting, the Mayor and Council would sign the attached letter (see the letter and the cover letter below) asking the Maryland Stadium Authority to conduct an Economic Impact Study that, if favorable, would enable the project to attract state funding for specific parts of the project. This would then become a public-private partnership where private investment would fund the hotel and restaurants and public funding could fund the conference center, park, and parking garage.

CRC Cover Letter

MSA Request

I promised an update on Wednesday night’s meeting, and as it turned out, City leaders are still figuring things out. Here are two videos that cover the whole meeting if you weren’t there or haven’t seen it and want to watch it for yourself.

https://www.facebook.com/eric.banks.71/videos/10215903479393735/UzpfSTEzNTA3MDIxMDU6MTAyMjAyOTY1NzAyMjgzMjA/

https://www.facebook.com/erik.emely/videos/10219148707846131/UzpfSTEzNTA3MDIxMDU6MTAyMjAyOTY1NzEzMDgzNDc/

As you can see, we’re not quite there, but I am still confident of a positive outcome in the end as we continue to keep the faith and work toward a better Crisfield. We are committed and will not give up.
In my next newsletter in August, I will keep you abreast of further progress on this project as well as other good news happening around Crisfield. There is lots to tell and even more coming.

Best regards to all,

Charlotte

Here is the latest:
HOTEL/CONFERENCE CENTER & PARK PLAN PRESENTED TO MAYOR & COUNCIL:

• On February 13th, Ocean City developer Peck Miller made a presentation to the Mayor, City Manager, and Council on the comprehensive plan he envisions for Crisfield’s rejuvenation. He has been meeting with the Greater Crisfield Action Coalition’s Executive Committee since Fall 2018 to develop steps forward beginning with a Hotel and Conference Center downtown adjacent to a Central Park or “Watermen’s Memorial Park” and a Parking Garage to control downtown traffic.

• Peck discussed the various components of his plan and reported that he has contracts on all the property in the targeted area except for one piece, which is still under discussion. The Council’s questions and interest during the presentation and after the meeting showed their positive outlook toward what was presented. (See the attached news article about the presentation in the County Times.) We are encouraged and optimistic, and look forward to pursuing this opportunity. We are having lots of meetings and conversations and looking at all options. As things solidify, I’ll keep you posted.

SMITH ISLAND BAKING COMPANY ON THE MOVE:

• Winter may seem like the slow time of year, but at Smith Island Baking Company in Crisfield, things are on the move as they prepare for the 2019 season. Besides working on new packaging, tweaking their recipes, and looking for new warehouse space, Facility Manager Raymond Lord told me they are busy making their newest product, Smith Island Cake Bites, which are selling like crazy! They have Double Chocolate Filled Bites, S’mores Filled Bites, and Banana Cream Filled Bites and others. I tasted the Red Velvet Bites, which had a creamy frosting center and tasted divine. The company is selling them to restaurants for their dessert menu. They are also making a “Picnic Cake” for sale in grocery stores. Raymond said, “Things are going a mile a minute here. It’s awesome!” We think it’s awesome too having the State Dessert and other sweet delights made here in Crisfield, and we wish them the best as they stay on the move. To learn more, go to: www.smithislandcake.com or stop in their store at 45 West Chesapeake Avenue.

BUBBY’S WINGS HAS EXPANDED:

• As of March 1st, Bubby’s Wings is operating the former Water’s Edge Café at 1108 West Main Street. Mike and Renee Mears are excited about leasing the space from Dan and Mary Nelson, and have developed their menu based on everything “fresh” and “homemade”. This will include specialty burgers, barbeque items like beef brisket and ribs, ribeye steaks, pulled pork and seafood including shrimp, tuna, and the “Crisfield Salad”, which is salad topped with Maryland crabmeat. Frankly, I’m going in this weekend for their salad topped with Ahi Tuna, a choice that’s good for my palate and my health requirements.

• Renee shared that she has wonderful memories of an African American lady who taught her to cook when Renee was 19 and worked at the English Grill in Salisbury. Renee’s grandfather once owned City Restaurant in Crisfield, so it runs in the family too.

• The restaurant will be open from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with extended hours in the summer, “especially on Crab & Cruise weekends”, Renee said, “when more people are in town.” That’s the name of the game… people.  As we attract more people to Crisfield because of our existing, growing activities and new ones, it will help our existing businesses thrive and gradually create a demand for more shops and restaurants. This is how we are going to grow!

yART and YARD SALE PROMOTED BY A&E:

• If you have art or junk (um, I mean “treasures”) to sell… or like to buy art and art supplies or browse yard sales, then plan on spending all day in Crisfield on Saturday, March 30 from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM enjoying the community-wide Crisfield Yard Sale and yArt Sale promoted by the Arts & Entertainment Committee. The idea is that a lot of people need to downsize and de-clutter, and they have wonderful pieces of stored artwork, antiques, and traditional yard sale items that others would enjoy having. This is the first of its kind in Crisfield, and A&E plans to make it an annual event each Spring. Please tell all your friends in Crisfield and the region so we will have huge numbers of buyers in all parts of town. Frankly, I can’t wait. See you there! 

PARK CABINS AND LODGE TO BE FULLY RENOVATED:

• Janes Island State Park is getting ready to do a complete renovation to its full service cabins and its lodge starting at the end of this year. Janes Island has four full-service and five camper mini-cabins. Daugherty Creek Lodge sleeps 16 persons with four bedrooms and three and a half baths. There is also a kitchen, common area, large second floor meeting room, two fireplaces, and a deck overlooking the expansive marshes of Janes Island. Janes Island State Park is one of Crisfield’s greatest assets. Over 90,000 visitors come annually to enjoy the 260 acres of parkland on the water, 2900 acres of saltmarsh, 30 miles of water trails, and miles of isolated pristine beaches. You can get full details and make reservations for the 2019 season at: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/eastern/janesisland.aspx

NEW REALTOR IN TOWN:

• Born and raised in Crisfield, Melissa Laird has returned to her roots, purchasing Tull & Price Real Estate and opening it under her realty, Laird & Associates. Melissa has been living in Salisbury for many years, working first as a postal worker and then as a realtor for ERA. Now she is coming back to Crisfield to run her own business here. She will cover the tri-county area – Somerset, Worcester, and Wicomico – and plans to expand into property management in addition to real estate sales. She has had the offices at 938 West Main Street renovated, and is open for business.

Melissa said, “Few things make me happier than helping clients buy and sell real estate in my hometown.” Realtor Tim Carson, formerly with Tull & Price, will continue to work there along with Erin Pruitt. Tim said, “I told people she would take it to the next level, but I was wrong. She’s taking it up two levels!”  We’re glad she is, and with the growth that is coming to Crisfield, she’s coming just at the right time.

NEED FUNDING FOR TWO MORE HISTORICAL SIGNS:

• Tourism requires a number of things: things to do, places to eat, and proper signage around town, including interpretive signage that shares the history and culture. Hebron Savings Bank funded the newest historical sign titled “The Turf” to be placed near the Crisfield Library. Attached are two more signs ready to go to production once we have the funding. Each sign is $2,400. If your organization or company would like to sponsor one of these signs, please contact me at charlotte@crisfield.net. And *thank you* in advance!

Sign #7 – Oyster Industry

Sign #8 – Uptown Main St

HERE COMES THE CHOIR:

• The five-star rated program “It Takes a Choir” that included an episode done in Crisfield is now available on Amazon Prime. Below is a segment from Part 4. It’s neat seeing scenes from Crisfield and the people of Crisfield performing beautifully. Take a look if you haven’t seen it or bought it:
• https://www.facebook.com/crisfieldmd/videos/2297111673879517/?q=crabbin%27%20and%20choirin%27%20in%20Crisfield%20It%20Takes%20a%20Choir&epa=SEARCH_BOX

CITY RECEIVES $100,000 FOR FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT:

• According to the City of Crisfield’s newsletter, the City “has received $100,000 to be used for Façades/Building Improvements within the Arts & Entertainment District through a Community Legacy grant from the Department of Housing and Community Development. Under this program the City of Crisfield will use Community Legacy grant funding to provide secured grants for business owners to improve building façades and interiors within the City boundaries, with an emphasis on the Arts and Entertainment (A & E) District, with the greatest weight given to the area where the National Historic District overlaps the A & E. The goal is to fund ten businesses at $10,000 each, although businesses may apply for more or less than this amount.” The grant requires a 50/50 match, and applications will be available by April 1st and must be filed by April 30th. Email Jennifer Merritt at jmerritt@crisfieldcityhall.com to be added to a mailing list for updates. Won’t it be great to see façade and interior improvements to 10 of Crisfield’s businesses this Summer? I love it!

MAYOR PROPOSES “ADOPT A NEIGHBOR” PROJECT:

• Crisfield Mayor Barry Dize has proposed an “Adopt a Neighbor” project, asking citizens to identify someone in their neighborhood in need of attention and to just check on them from time to time to make sure they’re not in any distress. This is certainly the kind of thing that makes a “community”, and it also makes people want to live in a place like this. I know there are already people who do this on a regular basis, but I hope because of the Mayor’s initiative there will be even more.

I know there are a lot of pictures attached to this newsletter, but I hope they helped bring all this ‘Good News’ to life! In conclusion, the time is ripe for Crisfield to reach its true potential. Can’t you see the puzzle pieces coming together? It takes a lot of little and big things happening gradually one after another and some simultaneously to bring the change Crisfield needs. One day, some will say it happened “overnight”! The truth is it’s been happening gradually and it’s picking up steam. It may appear to happen overnight, but has taken an enormous amount of vision, effort, risk, faith, and unity continuously over a period of time to bring Crisfield to life. In the end, through a comprehensive approach, we CAN create ‘The New Crisfield’ – a Maryland City that will become the pride of Crisfield, the County, the State, and – can you think this big? – the nation! It’s happening day by day. Believe.

Best,

Charlotte
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*The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc. (GCAC) is a 501(c)3 not for profit economic development corporation run by an all-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors

Now here’s the latest:
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BBQ & SEAFOOD BY THE BAY COMING SOON:

• Owner Eric Banks is preparing to open Barbeque & Seafood by the Bay this Spring near Captain’s Tyler’s Crab House on Spruce Street in Crisfield. Located on the water and accessible by car or boat, Barbeque by the Bay will offer barbeque chicken along with free range chicken, beef brisket, and angus beef burgers – the grilled foods Eric is known for.  In addition, he will offer a variety of seafood from local watermen. Patrons can eat-in or carry-out. A boat-up business like his will be a great addition to what Crisfield offers, since many boaters enjoy coming to places where they can tie up and come ashore to enjoy a good meal. The new operation is an outgrowth of Firewagon BBQ, the business he previously operated on the grounds of DJ’s Car Wash and in various spots throughout the community at various times. He plans to be open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and he looks forward to providing a few jobs for local people and to seeing locals and visitors come and enjoy his grilled specialties in a beautiful setting on the water.

 

• In his own words, here is what this local entrepreneur has to say: As a native of Crisfield, which I classify as one of the most unique destinations on the Eastern Shore, I’m passionate and excited about the change I believe in for our economic landscape. For thirty-five plus years I’ve been working hard to achieve the things I believe in. For twenty-five of those years I have owned and operated a business here on the Eastern seaboard of Maryland and Virginia. During this time, I’ve developed a passion for the culinary arts, which brought me to a career in the food service industry. I love cooking and creating my take on the wonders from the land of pleasant living and the Chesapeake Bay estuary. As a result, I am opening a new business as a BBQ and Seafood carry-out. Barbeque by the Bay is coming this Spring, and I will add the Seafood carry-out this Summer, all in one location. Someone once said, “If you build it, they will come.” I believe that… IF it’s signature and delicious. My number one goal is to offer the best BBQ and seafood on the East Coast. It’s coming soon by the grace of God!” I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait!  

MI PUEBLITO BUILDING SOLD:

• An investor from Washington, DC has purchased the property formerly known as the Mi Pueblito Grill at 321-327 West Main Street and plans to make needed improvements to the building in the Spring. Once renovated, it will be offered for rental as a restaurant or some other commercial venture. Mi Pueblito Grill was a popular Mexican eatery in Crisfield, and we were sad to see it close. It would be great to see another restaurant or shop come in its place. With parking nearby, it would be a real asset to uptown in the Arts & Entertainment District.

LOCAL ONLINE BUSINESS RATED IN TOP 25:

• Linda Singh’s online company – sitaracollections.com – has been rated one of the “Top 25” places to buy handmade jewelry by the Guide for Buying website. The awards were based on the craftsmanship of the jewelry, the ease in using the website, the uniqueness of the brand, the story behind the brand, and the responsiveness of customer support. According to the Guide for Buying website, “The practice of making handmade jewelry goes back centuries. This type of jewelry is soldered, stamped, carved, sawed and assembled by hand. Due to the time it takes to create handmade jewelry, those making it put their heart and soul into every piece. Each item will be slightly different ensuring that it is unique. This process also ensures a high level of quality and craftsmanship.”

• All sterling silver jewelry ordered from the Sitara Collections website is shipped from Crisfield and is also available in Linda’s store, Bay Gift Vault, at 952 West Main Street. Artisans from India create the unique handmade sterling silver pieces, and part of the proceeds go to the Helping Children Foundation, which supports a school in rural India.  It’s a win-win-win. By the way, at her store in Crisfield, you can buy this jewelry at wholesale. Men take heed: This would make a great Valentine’s Day gift for your special Valentine!

CUSTOMS HOUSE GETS ANOTHER BOOST:

• The Crisfield Customs House owned by the Crisfield Heritage Foundation stands to get another financial boost as Senator Mary Beth Carozza and Delegate Charles Otto put in a request for a $300,000 bond initiative for the Customs House with the requirement that the grantee provide matching funds of $150,000. There is a review process by the budget committees and normally some portion of the request is funded. The funds will be used to completely renovate the interior of the building, adding insulation, heat and air conditioning, new bathrooms and other interior finishings. Previously, the Customs House got a new roof and new windows.

• The Customs House is one of the last remaining vestiges of Crisfield’s heritage and a significant landmark.  In 1866 when Crisfield got the last leg of the railroad that extended to the City Dock, which we still call “the depot”, Crisfield “prospered from the new railroad and its proximity to excellent oyster and crab grounds” and thus rapidly began attracting the “whale’s share” of the Bay’s shipping, according to William Warner in Beautiful Swimmers. There was nightly service from Crisfield to Baltimore and soon after there was a similar service from Crisfield to Norfolk. By 1900, “the number of vessels registered in the Crisfield Custom House was exceeded only by five other port cities in the United States. And, because sail remained so much in use in oyster dredging and crab scraping, the year 1910 saw Crisfield with the largest registry of sailing vessels of any port in the nation.”

• I commend the Crisfield Heritage Foundation for preserving this important piece of Crisfield’s history and working to put it to use as a historic tourist attraction to help tell Crisfield’s story. Thank you, Senator, Delegate, City, County, and State officials for supporting this important cause. This could not be done without you.

NEW HISTORICAL SIGN FEATURES THE LITTLE BOAT HARBOR AND “THE TURF”:

• Crisfield will have its newest historical sign near the Crisfield Library in an area formerly known as “The Turf.”  The sign features a neighborhood where Crisfield’s African American seafood workers lived and Crisfield’s Little Boat Harbor nearby. The sign is #6 of 10 signs planned by members of the Crisfield Heritage Foundation (CHF): Phil Goldsborough, Frank Rhodes, Jason Rhodes, Casey Goldsborough, and Pat Carson who spent months gathering the pictures and facts for the signs. The first 5 signs were funded by the American Legion and are already in place. In response to a GCAC fundraising effort, this latest sign has been funded by Hebron Savings Bank and will be installed this Spring. The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition is continuing to raise funds for the next four signs, which cost $2,400 each. If any organization or business wants to fund any of the remaining signs through a tax-deductible donation to GCAC, please email me at: charlotte@crisfield.net. The signs are important to preserving our heritage and telling our story to visitors and residents alike. See the sign design at: Historical Sign #6 – The Turf

A&E NEWS:

• The Arts & Entertainment committee has been holding a logo contest, which ended yesterday. They had over 20 entries! The winner will receive a $500 cash prize, and the winning logo will appear on two billboards on Route 13. The logo entries are varied and well done. Which is your favorite? You can view the logos at: https://www.facebook.com/pg/artsandentertainmentcrisfield/photos/?tab=album&album_id=302942893687826 The winner will be announced by the end of February.

• There are new A&E events planned too. See their new Events FB page for what’s coming: https://www.facebook.com/pg/artsandentertainmentcrisfield/events/?ref=page_internal

CRISFIELD NOW HAS WEATHER WATCHERS ON WBOC-TV:

• Thanks to Tim and Doris Howlett, Crisfield now has a Weather Watcher spot on WBOC-TV’s weather broadcasts. Meteorologist Dan Satterfield and other weather reporters there can include Crisfield winds, rainfall, and temperatures in the weather broadcast each day now that Tim and Doris have become Weather Watchers for Crisfield. They used their own funds to purchase equipment for the back of their building at 930 West Main Street where Tim and Doris’ Country Store is located. They also have equipment at their home. Through a computerized system, the equipment is connected to WBOC where Dan Satterfield can access it day or night. This is not only informational, but it is another means of getting Crisfield’s name in the news on a regular basis, and we owe Tim and Doris a “Thank You” for taking this initiative.

GCAC HIRING INTERNS AND PART-TIME STAFF:

• The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition* will be announcing positions for 1-2 interns and 1-2 part-time staff later this month. Made possible by an Operating Assistance Grant from the Department of Housing and Community Development, GCAC has funds for hiring people through short-term contracts and internships to help carry out 5-10 projects in the Five-Year Action Plan for Crisfield. They will assist with research, writing, and implementation steps for such projects as the Water Park, Boardwalk, Water Taxi, Murals, and Historical Signs. GCAC has been operating entirely through depending on local people volunteering their time to help Crisfield. It is a real step forward to be able to hire interns and staff so more can be accomplished.

GCAC WELCOMES 3 NEW BOARD MEMBERS:

• The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition welcomed three new Board members to its Board to start the New Year. They include: Reverend Ervin Wallace, Jr., Pastor LeBron Palmer, and businessman Steve Flaherty.

• Steve Flaherty is originally from Easton, but married Lee Ann Riggin of Crisfield, built a home and raised their two children here. Having always been involved with farming and agriculture, he started Agralarm, Inc. in Salisbury. Agralarm is involved with the sales and servicing of alarms and controls for the poultry industry on Delmarva as well as throughout the Carolinas, Georgia and Alabama. Steve is a member of the Asbury United Methodist Church and is active in various Christian and civic activities in Crisfield. He says, “When I first came to Crisfield in 1976, I was only 17 years old. I did not spend a lot of time thinking about the future of Crisfield. Today I have come to appreciate all the things we take for granted and the many strengths this area has. The future of Crisfield is very important, but it will only be as bright as we make it and will depend greatly on the effort we provide. It is the responsibility of our citizens, business leaders and elected officials all working together with a clear vision and an action plan. GCAC can help the City because we are an organization with a strong, diverse group of citizens and leaders from many backgrounds. I am excited to play a part in helping Crisfield achieve its true potential.”

• The GCAC Board elected the current officers for another term: Charlotte Scott, President; Donnie Drewer, Vice President; Darlene Taylor, Secretary; and Jay Tawes, Treasurer. With 13 Board members in all, the remaining Board members are Linda Singh, Dan Nelson, Angenette Stewart, Phil Riggin, Eric Banks, and Frances Martinez Myers. City Manager Rick Pollitt and Marina Director Tom Schisler are ex-officio members. Chamber of Commerce Past President Bill Buttrill is the GCAC liaison to the Chamber. We are fortunate to have such a strong and active Board! You can read more about our Board members on the GCAC website at: http://www.greatercrisfieldmd.org/our-team/

So there you have it. It’s actually only been 3 weeks since my last newsletter and in just that short period of time I have more good news than I have room to report or have permission to report yet. (I always get permission from the individual, business, or organization being discussed before I include it in the newsletter.) And I already have four more topics of good and great news for the March newsletter. Folks, what’s happening in Crisfield is *unprecedented*, and if I were you, I’d stay tuned… It’s about to get really interesting as we build the New Crisfield! To God Be the Glory!

Best, Charlotte

Charlotte Scott, President
Great Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc.
PO Box 144
Crisfield, MD 21817
www.GreaterCrisfieldMD.org
410-251-1669
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*The Greater Crisfield Action Coalition, Inc. (GCAC) is a 501(c)3 not for profit economic development corporation run by an all-volunteer, non-paid Board of Directors