Cecil County Life Spring/Summer 2019

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Spring/Summer 2019

Cecil County Life

Magazine Magazin n

Life to Lens:

The photography of John Dixon - Page 28

The North East River Yacht Club: At the peak of the Chesapeake -Page 58

• West Nottingham Academy celebrates its 275th anniversary • It’s Fair Weather at Fairhill • Hatchet-throwing in Cecil County Complimentary Copy

www.cecilcountylife.com | Spring/Summer 2019 | Cecil County Life

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Spring/Summer 2019

Cecil County Life Table of Contents

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Hatchet-throwing in Elkton

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Fulfillment through empowerment

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West Nottingham Academy celebrates 275th anniversary

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It’s Fair Weather at Fairhill

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Cecil Leadership Institute

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Photo essay: North East River Yacht Club

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Calendar of Events

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Elk River Brewing Company

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Cecil County Life Spring/Summer 2019 Cecil County has it all—history, entertainment, educational opportunities, commercial growth, fun. In this issue of Cecil County Life, we look at just a few of the people, places, and things that make the Cecil County community so special. Since its beginnings almost 90 years ago, the North East River Yacht Club has offered its members some of the most spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay. The yacht club certainly illustrates a little of what makes life in Cecil County so unique and special, so we are featuring the yacht club in a special photo essay by Jim Coarse. This issue also takes a look at West Nottingham Academy as the oldest private boarding school in the country celebrates its 275th anniversary. It’s an important milestone. But the school remains focused not on its illustrious past, but on the promising future. The summer is a great time to share activities with friends and family. One relatively new activity that has become enormously popular in the last year is throwing hatchets at a wooden bullseye—axe-throwing establishments have popped up everywhere, it seems, and Cecil County is no exception. We have a story about You Bet Your Axe, which is located in the Elkton Crossing Shopping Center. When it comes to drawing a crowd, few things bring people together like good beer. Cecil County has a booming beer scene, which we explore in this issue. Agriculture is an important part of life in Cecil County. We have a story about Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill which has become a center for organic farming, education, outreach and preservation. We hope you enjoy the stories as much as we enjoyed working on them. As always, we welcome your comments and suggestions for future stories. We’re already hard at work planning the next issue of Cecil County Life, which will arrive later in 2019.

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Sincerely, Randy Lieberman, Publisher randyl@chestercounty.com, 610-869-5553 Steve Hoffman, Editor editor@chestercounty.com, 610-869-5553, ext. 13

Cover design: Tricia Hoadley Cover photo: Jim Coarse www.cecilcountylife.com | Spring/Summer 2019 | Cecil County Life

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|Cecil County Business|

Hatchet-throwing in Elkton? You Bet Your Axe! Flinging a sharp blade into wood is cathartic and fun

The business opened in December 2018 after a quick refitting from its previous use as a gym. 8

Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

By Drewe Phinny Staff Writer

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t first, alcohol and axe-throwing might sound like a dangerous combination, but according to Nicole (Nikki) Ball and Natalie Hauck, the beveragesipping is secondary to the main event, which is throwing hatchets at a wooden bullseye. Ball and Hauck are co-owners of You Bet Your Axe (YBYA), at the site of a former gym in the Elkton Crossing Shopping Center. Continued on Page 10

Patrons can design their own competition strategies for competitions.

You Bet Your Axe is in the Elkton Crossing Shopping Center. www.cecilcountylife.com | Spring/Summer 2019 | Cecil County Life

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“The owners are Maryland-certified in alcohol training,” Hauck explained. “And that includes some staff members. Everybody is well-versed. There is always at least one certified person there.” The husbands of Ball and Hauck are part of the first-responder and law-enforcement communities, which enhances the overall commitment to safety on the premises. And their participation doesn’t stop there. Ball’s husband put in countless hours to help them open within 45 days of signing the lease. Hauck’s husband handles the books. Besides beer and light wine, non-alcoholic beverages are also options. Because of the Class D license, no beverages of any kind can be brought onto the prem-

ises. “We cannot allow any outside drinks.” Ball said. “Not even a water bottle, because then we can’t control it. So we have a wide selection of beer, wine and soft drinks for our customers.” In addition to co-ownership of YBYA, Ball and Hauck continue to work their other jobs. Ball has held leadership positions in marketing in the corporate world for around 20 years. Hauck, along with a business partner, runs a company that specializes in workplace logistic management. Ball and Hauck got the idea for You Bet Your Axe when they were visiting a similar venue in South Jersey, where Hauck lives. “So Natalie calls me one day and says, ‘I just booked us a session to go axe-throwing and

The emphasis is on safe fun for all age groups at You Bet Your Axe. 10

Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

drinking,’� Ball recalled. “It was phenomenal. I can’t remember as an adult having that much fun. We had a blast. Then we looked at each other and said, ‘We can open one of these. Let’s do it.’ That’s literally what happened. I remember the moment.� In researching demographics, Ball, who lives in Chesapeake City, found out that axethrowing chains had decided not to open in Cecil County. “I thought they were crazy for not Continued on Page 12

The inside has themed elements in addition to the throwing cages.

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picking this region,” she said. “This is perfect.” And so far, customers and repeat customers have rewarded that decision with enthusiastic support. “I couldn’t be happier that we chose this area,” Ball said. “Cecil County has accepted us with open arms. We have met so many amazing people; it’s been a blast.” You Bet Your Axe has been open since December of 2018. Being good neighbors is part of successful ventures in Cecil County, and Ball and Houck were in on that philosophy from the start. “We want to be part of the community,” Ball said. “So we’re part of the Elkton Alliance. We really embrace partnering with other local businesses so we can help each other, because success breeds success. We only carry Broken Spoke Wine so we can promote them. They’re a local winery in Earleville. We don’t have a keg system, but we’re talking to local breweries and restaurants … Our goal is to be good ambassadors and create relationships.” Axe-throwing is a fairly simple game that rewards

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Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

players with points for how close they come to concentric rings with different point values on a wooden board -- sort of like darts. Every session includes a coach who shows you how to throw, as well as reviewing the game rules and keeping score. The coach also helps create the atmosphere and ensures that you and your group have a great experience. David Van Dyke, head coach at YBYA, was checking out a venue in Philadelphia and it really sparked his interest. “For my thirtieth birthday, I actually built one, and I had my friends over and we played in the back yard,” he said. Then, soon after, YBYA opened, and Van Dyke applied for the job. He’s been working there ever since. Another coach, Cassandra Stankewitz, has quickly worked her way up to number five on the list of proficient female axe-throwers. “Jan. 5 was my first time throwing. I was in the military and law enforcement, so it was kind of like going to the range,” she said. Continued on Page 14

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“My dad and I came in here. I started throwing and I got hooked … I joined the league and then started working here. It’s a lot of fun. I love it.” There are seven lanes at the facility, with a total of 14 targets. Each lane can hold up to 12 people. The whole venue can hold more than 100 people, so it’s perfect for parties of all sizes. There is also a private room that can be rented. Typically, groups play the round-robin game, which has ten rounds. During a two-hour session, people play up to three or four games. Coaches will help you switch up the teams Continued on Page 16

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(guys-girls, couples, etc.) Or, you can get creative and go for something like darts -- whoever gets to 75 points first is the winner. As people get used to the game, Ball said, they mix it up a little bit. Generally, people who come in to check out the place quickly advance from casual play to real competition. Then the next step is to join a league. That would be WATL, the World Axe-Throwing League, as seen on ESPN. That’s where the best of the best face off. Ball explained how a player at YBYA could actually end up on TV. “On Thursday nights, our league does brackets until they get to competition,” she said. “Each person will throw four games [40 throws], and those throws get put into the WATL app and our league players can see where they rank compared to each other and the rest of the group around the world. Each league session is eight weeks, and every WATL affiliate starts at the same time. After the eighth week, you find out who

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Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

your local winner is. He or she is awarded a trophy.” At that point, WATL will choose the top throwers and they are invited to the world championship, which is televised. “That’s usually in December, so a league member from Elkton could be seen on ESPN,” Ball said. “Some recent rule changes have made things a little more difficult for the really strong competitors. That should be noticeable during spring league play.” Walk-ins are welcome Wednesday through Saturday during normal business hours, as long as there is a lane open. The facility is very flexible for corporate parties and groups of 20 or more, and will open outside of regular hours to accommodate, if possible. People may bring in their own food, and every lane has a picnic table. “We have a pizza place next to us,” Ball added. “Also a Chinese place and a Mexican place. We have their menus so you can call them, and most places will actually just walk it right over, so people won’t have to interrupt their game.” YBYA also partners with

Crave Eatery, an Elkton food truck service. Ball and Hauck are proud that they are female co-owners of a thriving business, especially because it’s not exactly your typical start-up. “Especially this type of business -- two chicks that own an axe-throwing business. Kind of stands out,” Ball said. You Bet Your Axe is in the Elkton Crossing Shopping Center (985 E. Pulaski Highway, Route 40, Elkton. Call 443-593-3075 or visit www.youbetyouraxe. com. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 4:30 to 11 p.m., and Saturday from 2 to 11 p.m.

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|Cecil County People|

Fulfillment through empowerment The focus at Bayside is on what people can do, not what they can’t do

Mary Falkenstein, Executive Director of Bayside Community Network, Inc.: ‘Bayside assists Individuals with intellectual disabilities to achieve their greatest level of independence in work, life and leisure.’ 18

Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

By Drewe Phinny Staff Writer

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ary Falkenstein, the Executive Director of Bayside Community Network, Inc., has been with BCN for 26 years, moving from Director of Residential Services to Quality Assurance to her current position, which she has held for 11 years. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Va., she moved to the area in 1992 after marrying her husband Aaron, a lifelong Cecil County resident. They live in the Elk Neck area with their two daughters, Victoria and Jacqulyn. Falkenstein recently answered some questions about her work at Bayside. What’s the mission of Bayside Community Network, Inc.? In a nutshell, Bayside assists Individuals with intellectual disabilities to achieve their greatest level of independence in work, life and leisure. This picture looks very different for each person, and is driven by their abilities, dreams and desires. Can you define the word disability, and are there different categories that may or not be treated by Bayside? First, we don’t like to focus on the word disability, because it tends to dictate what limitations an individual may have. We like to look at each individual for what special and unique abilities they possess. These abilities are what truly defines the person. For technical purposes, BCN provides supports for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities which occur prior to the end of the 21st year

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Bayside Community Network Continued from Page 19

of life. BCN also provides assisted living services to seniors, with or without disabilities. What are the most formidable challenges for Bayside? As with any nonprofit, the largest challenge is the ongoing search for funding. State funds only go so far. Donations and grants are always sought for special projects, support of individuals without state funding, Camp Care scholarships and the ongoing funds needed to upkeep 14 residential homes, a day/vocational site and our senior assisted living home. Furthermore, we are tasked with assisting those of our individuals who are interested in work with finding a job within the community. In general, most employers don’t realize that the individuals we serve can be a contributing, dependable and capable member of the work force. Are there misconceptions or prejudices with respect to disabilities? Disability is probably the greatest misconception. Our individuals have abilities and qualities that

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better define who they are as a person. These abilities allow them to be contributing members of our community and local work force. Do staff members work only on Bayside’s Route 40 campus, or do they visit residences, too? BCN has approximately 210 employees who work at various locations, including our Route 40 campus, on-site job coaching at various employers, Sunny Acres Senior Assisted Living Home, Camp Care, 14 residential homes, as well as onsite in family homes providing personal supports. How does Bayside get involved in the community? We encourage our individuals to be a part of the community in which they live and work. Our individuals do this by enjoying the great leisure opportunities offered in our county and by participating in our volunteer programs. BCN currently has 23 volunteer sites where our individuals utilize their time and talent to give back to their community. These opportunities are two-fold, allowing them to give back while learning and practicing skills that can be later used in work and life. Continued on Page 22

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Bayside Community Network Continued from Page 21

What Bayside events are coming up in the spring and summer of 2019? Camp Care for ages 5-21 (July 15 to Aug. 2); Camp Care 25th anniversary celebration (Aug. 2); Craft Beer and Wine Festival (Fall 2019); Greenhouse reopening and dedication (Summer 2019). We have a new Grant and Fundraising Coordinator, Jessica Johnson, who is always looking for collaborating partners and businesses to support our fundraising and event efforts. Has there been any community opposition to Bayside? No. In general, our community is and always has been very supportive of our organization and mission. What’s ahead for Bayside? BCN will concentrate on highlighting our individual gifts and abilities to the local workforce as they seek part and fulltime employment. BCN will support these individuals to be successful through transportation to and from work, and job coaching as needed. We are currently seeking local businesses interested in employing these individuals in a part-time or full-time capacity. Interested businesses should contact us at 410-398-6394.

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|Cecil County History|

West Nottingham A celebrates its 275th anniversary By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

D

id you know that the oldest private boarding school in the U.S. is located right here in Cecil County? West Nottingham Academy is celebrating its 275th anniversary this year. The school, which is situated on a picturesque 100-acre campus in Colora, Maryland, is an incredibly diverse, student-centered day and boarding school for students in the 9th through 12th grade. According to Dr. Tom Banks, the head of school at West Nottingham Academy, the staff, students, and alumni of the school are celebrating the 275th anniversary with a number of special events throughout the year, while also keeping the focus, as always, on the students and on the future. West Nottingham Academy provides a strong college-preparatory curriculum that is enhanced by the individual attention that the staff can devote to each student. About 85 percent of the students live on campus, while 15 percent come from Cecil County and the surrounding area. The average class size is 11 students, and the teacher-tostudent ratio is 1-to-7. Approximately 40 percent of the students are international students, an illustration of the school’s excellent reputation, which is bolstered by the strong liberal arts program that is developed to meet the needs of diverse learners. “This is truly an international educational opportunity in Cecil County,” Banks said, explaining that, in the last year, West Nottingham Academy increased the number of countries represented by students enrolled at the school from 13 to 20. The school was originally founded in 1744 when Samuel Finley, a Scots-Irish Presbyterian minister and teacher took charge of a newly formed congregation. Finley wanted to start a school that would put the needs of students first. West Nottingham Academy was the first of the Presbyterian boarding schools, and was a Continued on Page 26

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m Academy

All photos courtesy

West Nottingham Academy is the oldest private boarding school in the U.S. www.cecilcountylife.com | Spring/Summer 2019 | Cecil County Life

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West Nottingham Academy Continued from Page 24

forerunner to approximately 1,600 similar academies. The school no longer has an affiliation with the church, but according to Rusty Eder, a history and drama teacher at the school, West Nottingham Academy still remains true to the core principles that guided Finley so long ago. “I like to say that we’re not a great school because we’re the oldest boarding school, but we are the oldest boarding school because we are a great school,” Eder said. “Samuel Finley cared very much about his students. We have always been about the students. We still keep them at the center of everything. While we’ve maintained the core principles of Reverend Finley, we’re also looking at applying those principles in the modern world.” Eder serves as the Academy Historian, and one of his duties is to occasionally talk about the school and its history in front of different community groups or organizations. He is currently working on a special presentation for the 275th anniversary.

The early graduates of the school included many prominent colonial Americans, perhaps most notably Benjamin Rush and Richard Stockton, who were signers of the Declaration of Independence. Eder explained that two other students, John Morgan and William Shippen, Jr., were both co-founders of the University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, which was the first medical school in the U.S. when it was founded in 1765. Many other people who have made important contributions to society have graduated from West Nottingham Academy since then. When Banks came to the school three years ago, it was his turn to lead the school in a way that continues its long tradition of academic excellence. The academic success starts with a highly qualified and dedicated staff. Each year, the faculty and staff will see 30 to 40 students graduate, and they want each student to be fully prepared for college and the life that awaits them. Continued on Page 28

West Nottingham Academy is an incredibly diverse, student-centered day and boarding school for students in the 9th through 12th grades. 26

Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

West Nottingham Academy: Then and Now A “Then and Now” feature on West Nottingham Academy’s website encapsulates the school’s long and distinguished history in Cecil County: Then Founded in 1744, West Nottingham Academy is the oldest boarding school in the nation. It is also the first of the Presbyterian boarding schools, and was the forerunner to some 1,600 similar academies. Our early graduates include many prominent colonial Americans, including Benjamin Rush and Richard Stockton, both signers of the Declaration of Independence. In 1744, Samuel Finley, an Irish-Presbyterian preacher and teacher, was called to take charge of a newly formed congregation on the lower branch of the Octoraro Creek, known as the Nottingham Lots. Finley, who later became president of the College of New Jersey, now Princeton University, believed that the task of the church was to not only foster faith, but to teach men and women to think independently by exposing them to the great thoughts of the ages. When Finley opened his school nearly 275 years ago, it was a crude log structure at his own home, located near the

present site of Rising Sun Middle School. Within a few years, both church and school were moved to their present location. A twostory building at what is now the sunken garden housed the main school activities. When it was destroyed by fire, a single-story building replaced it, only to be destroyed again, this time by a storm. In 1865, what is now J. Paul Slaybaugh Old Academy was erected, and stands today. Academy was erected, and stands today.

Now Today, West Nottingham maintains the goals on which the school was founded, educating the intelligent young men and women entrusted to it. The school dropped its formal ties to the church in 1972, and since then, has set out to create the second home our students seek. In that time, the Chesapeake Learning Center was founded, and the school’s long commitment to the education of international students was formalized with the creation of the English-as-a-SecondLanguage curriculum. Additionally, new facilities have been constructed to support education in our everchanging world, including the C. Herbert Foutz Student Center, the Patricia A. Bathon Science Center, new dormitories, and the renovation of Finley and Magraw Halls.

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West Nottingham Academy Continued from Page 26

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West Nottingham Academy offers a safe, supportive environment for students. “Working at a boarding school is a lifestyle, not a job,” explained Banks, who previously worked at the Harrisburg Academy, where he served in a number of roles, as well as at the Milton Hershey School. In addition to teaching students during the day, the teachers and faculty members work with students after school as they participate in sports and activities. The staff also plans out activities for students on the weekends. Many of the teachers live right on the campus, and because so many people live on campus, the school offers top-notch dining services and other amenities to make it feel like home. “As a boarding school,” Banks explained, “it’s their home as well as their school. It truly is a 24-7, structured environment.” Continued on Page 30

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West Nottingham Academy Continued from Page 28

Each student is assigned to an advisor so that they can work together throughout the student’s time at West Nottingham Academy. The advisors make sure that each student is developing emotionally and socially. As each student progresses through the school and becomes a senior, the advisor then writes a few paragraphs about him or her, and at the graduation ceremony one of the school’s academic leaders will read these statements. It is a very important part of the graduation ceremony, Banks explained. Banks said that, with the support of the Board of Trustees, they have been able to implement a number of changes during the last three years that have enhanced the experience for students. When he first came to the school, he ran the faculty in-service sessions himself. He asked the teachers and staff to Continued on Page 32

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The campus provides a wonderful setting for students.

West Nottingham Academy Continued from Page 30

look at all areas of the school’s operations, and to offer suggestions for improvements or changes. A task force then worked on those ideas to determine which ones could be implemented, and how. One change that came out of the process was a move to a non-traditional method of scheduling classes. The school now has longer classes so that students can participate in project-based learning. The school also put in place an environmental sustainability program that has become a model for other schools. West Nottingham Academy is a Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education (MAEOE) Certified Sustainable School, which illustrates the commitment to implementing a plan to reduce the environmental impact as a school. They work with a number of different community partners, including Kilby Dairy Farm, on the environmental sustainability initiatives. Dr. Virginia Kennedy, who holds master’s and doctorate degrees in English and American Studies from Cornell University, serves as West Nottingham Academy’s director of sustainability programs, and Banks said that these programs have really been beneficial for students.

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Banks said that because the school is smaller, it is also nimble and can continually evolve to meet the needs of students. Kelly Dedrick and her husband Jim have had four children attend West Nottingham Academy. They first looked at West Nottingham Academy when their oldest child, Joshua, was struggling a little bit in school. He was naturally quiet, and was not the type of student who responded to, or needed, a push from his teachers. Some students need that extra push, while others don’t. The teachers and administrators at West Nottingham Academy were able to find out what worked for Joshua. He graduated in 2012. “They addressed his needs in a way that we had never seen before,” Dedrick explained. “The staff members are extremely capable of finding a student’s strengths and getting them ready to go on to college.” When the Dedricks saw what a positive experience Joshua had at West Nottingham Academy, they knew they wanted their other children, Austin, Hailey, and Emma, to also attend the school. Emma is now set to graduate as a salutatorian of her class.

Tom Banks has served as the head of school for West Nottingham Academy for three years.

All their children have been fully prepared for success at the collegiate level because of the strong programs at West Nottingham Academy, Dedrick said. She praised the dedication of the staff. When one of their daughters was struggling with AP Calculus, one of the teachers offered to tutor her so that she would be prepared to advance to the next math class. “The staff is pretty consistent with being there to help the students in any way possible,” Dedrick explained. One of the most valuable services that the school provides to students, according to Dedrick, is the guidance in planning for college. It starts when the students are in ninth grade, and the assistance doesn’t stop until they are enrolled in a college of their choice. “I think our college counseling program is really good,” Dedrick said, explaining that the higher education world is always changing. That makes it difficult for parents to provide the kind of help that their children need on their own. She noted that many of the graduating seniors are able to apply, and get accepted, to a college of their choice before Christmas of their senior year—taking some of the stress out of the process for students and their parents. The fact that West Nottingham Academy has been able Continued on Page 34

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to attract students from not just throughout the U.S., but from around the world, offers some major advantages for students. With international students making up about 40 percent of the total enrollment, students at West Nottingham Academy have a lot of valuable experience interacting with peers from different backgrounds and cultures. West Nottingham Academy works hard at ensuring diversity. When the number of international students from one particular region of the world increased, efforts were made to diversify so that more international countries are represented. “The administration has done a good job of diversifying even the international students,” Dedrick explained. Banks said that West Nottingham Academy is very sensitive to the needs of international students. Communication is very important, including allowing the international students’

The graduation ceremony is always a highlight each year. As each student receives his or her diploma, a statement is read about the person’s activities, accomplishments, and contributions to the school.

Continued on Page 36

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West Nottingham Academy Continued from Page 34

families to keep up with the students’ activities at the school. West Nottingham Academy has more recently established a new process for interviewing students when they are going through the admissions process. “We have been interviewing for character as well as academic achievement,” Banks explained. He noted that this has allowed the school to bring in students who are very respectful. Having respectful students, in turn, results in happier faculty and staff members. Eder has been teaching at the school for 20 years. As a history teacher, he really enjoys teaching at a place with so much history. “There are many times throughout the school year when I feel the history of the school,” he explained. “There’s so much history all around. It’s nice to be able to present history in very real terms.” A number of activities surrounding the 275th anniversary have already taken place. There is a 50-year time capsule that students and staff are putting together. An alumni event took place in June. The biggest celebration associated with the milestone will be held in October during Homecoming weekend. For more information about West Nottingham Academy, visit www.wna.org. To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@ chestercounty.com.

The West Nottingham Academy campus is situated on 100 acres in Cecil County. 36

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|Cecil County Agriculture|

Nancy Bentley feeds a Gotland sheep a healthy snack. 38

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Soon after she and her husband began the Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill in 2008, Nancy Bentley began a friendship with a retired schoolteacher. It led to the purchase of the 42-acre historic Watkins Farm, that’s become a center for organic farming, education, outreach and preservation

It’s Fair Weather at Fairhill By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

W

hen Nancy Bentley and her husband Randy purchased a five-acre property in Fair Hill 11 years ago, it was perfectly suited to be the canvas upon which Nancy could construct her dreams. As a young girl growing up in Newark, she fantasized about someday becoming a farmer, and by the time she was ten years old, she was getting her hands dirty in her mother’s garden plot, growing tomatoes, peppers, lettuce and carrots. The young girl went all in: she volunteered to muck out stalls and walk horses at Carousel Park in Pike Creek, she raised and showed horses, and as she got older, Nancy pored through

issues of Rodale’s Organic Gardening magazine. “I was struck from a very young age why we had to manipulate growing things, given that for hundreds of thousands of years, food had been grown and produced without any kind of manipulation,” Nancy said. “I began to read all I could about the advantages of organic farming.” For more than 30 years, Nancy shared her knowledge of gardening, farming and sustainability in a continuing road show of education. She spoke at the Food Bank of Delaware and at several schools, where she would teach classes as part of the “Healthy Food for Healthy Kids” program. Her teaching didn’t end in the classroom; Nancy would also help design gardens at schools, working in the soil with children. Continued on Page 40

All photos by Richard L. Gaw

Nancy Bentley at the 42-acre Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill.

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Fair Weather Farm Continued from Page 39

Currently, there are 36 Gotland sheep at the farm, whose wool is used to make rugs and clothing.

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Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill opened in 2008 as an organic farm, and it quickly took on a semblance of Nancy’s childhood dreams, realized. There were chickens, a horse, and the wide-open, row after row expanse of produce, popping from the untilled soil, there for a small newly-formed CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) membership to enjoy seasonal, locally grown food, without pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. On any given year, the farm grows an assortment of organic vegetables which include gourmet lettuces, kale, Swiss Chard, arugula, spinach and mustard greens, summer squash, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes and zucchini, as well as root vegetables like radishes and beets. Continued on Page 42

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Fair Weather Farm Continued from Page 40

Several years ago, while the fiveacre farm was blossoming, a friend of Nancy’s father asked her if she knew her neighbor, Lilian Watkins, a long-time Delaware teacher who lived in the historic Watkins Home on Telegraph Road in Elkton, which sat on 42 acres of property. Born in 1912, Watkins taught second grade at Richardson Park Elementary School in Wilmington for several decades (she even taught Nancy’s father), was a charter member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church and a member of the Cecil County Historical Society. “My dad’s friend told me, ‘you need to meet Lilian,’” Nancy said. “So I went over and knocked on her door, and about three hours later, I finally left. We made an immediate connection.” The farm also grows a bountiful quantity of herbs.

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Fair Weather Farm Continued from Page 42

Their initial meeting led to a close friendship between Nancy and Watkins, who was by then well into her 90s. When Watkins passed on Sept. 23, 2012 at the age of 99, the person managing the family’s estate and trust asked Nancy to assist with cleaning out the old farmhouse. In every room lay drawer- and closet-fulls that documented Watkins’ life: photographs, mementos and trinkets that served as a retrospective of not only one person’s history but the history of an entire community. “Although she and her husband Oliver had no children of their own, Lilian really had thousands of children, whom she impacted through her teaching,” Nancy said. “I knew from the start that this home and the property behind it was a special place, and that it could also serve as a place of teaching.” In 2015, Nancy was given the opportunity to purchase the Watkins Farm -- which she and Randy did, which certainly rescued the property from potential real estate development. Soon, project by project, planting by planting, the widening expanse of Nancy’s dream grew in proportion to the farm’s production. Led by the farm’s relationship with its CSA members, Fair Weather Farm produces fresh organic vegetables, greens, pastured Continued on Page 46

Photo by Shannon Uhl

The wool from a 36-count herd of Gotland sheep goes into the making of woolen socks, rugs, bedspreads, throws, yarns and more. 44

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Fair Weather Farm Continued from Page 44

chicken eggs, flowers and herbs. It also hosts 20 bee hives – vital for sustaining the farm’s ecosystem – that produces fresh honey. In addition, the wool from a 36-count herd of Gotland sheep goes into the making of woolen socks, rugs, bedspreads, throws, yarns and more. Since the farm began, something else has also been cultivated: Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill has become not only a working farm, but a 42-acre natural classroom. In January 2016, Nancy established the Watkins Farm for Our Future, in Lilian’s honor. Its mission serves as a generous overlap of what originally drew Nancy to farming and education, and also provides its direction: To educate the community on sustainable, healthy eating and self-sufficient living. The program offers school children the opportunity to Continued on Page 48

Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill produces a wide variety of organicallygrown vegetables, including gourmet lettuces, kale, Swiss chard, summer squash, and many others. 46

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get out of their classrooms and into the natural environment of a working farm, where they learn about healthy eating and gain an appreciation and knowledge of how a farm works. “I used to arrive at schools with a chicken in my arms, and I loved be able to reach young people about the importance of farming and where their food comes from,” she said. “When I was growing up, there were farms everywhere, and every year, we’d take a visit to the farms. Now, I thought, where now do kids still have this opportunity? It began to take hold in me that I loved the aspect of teaching, and that this could be another purpose for the farm. I loved not only the growing of things, but the ability to share it.” Dr. McKay Jenkins, the Cornelius Tilghman Professor of English, Journalism and Environmental Humanities at the University of Delaware, arranges visits to the farm with his students. (Over the past 30 years, Jenkins has become a leading expert The farm’s Gotland sheep greet every visitor.

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State Line Liquors Four Generations Family Owned & Operated. Since 1937.

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Bentley oversees the germination of new plantings.

on the rising threats to that beauty, including toxic chemicals, water pollution and climate change. His books include Food Fight: GMOs and the Future of the American Diet, and ContamiNation.) Throughout the year, the Watkins Farm for Our Future extends to an ever-changing schedule of classes and workshops, which include bee keeping, taught by Ray Walker of the Delaware Photo by Shannon Uhl Beekeepers; spinning classes taught by a local weaver; and guest speakers who give talks on holistic health and wellness, and how to grow, preserve and prepare healthy food options. The farm’s annual spring and fall festivals provide demonstrations of blacksmithing, woodworking and weaving. Continued on Page 50

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Fair Weather Farm Continued from Page 49

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“Watkins Farm for Our Future is about educating and inspiring people to lead a healthier and less stressful life, and to establish this farm as a place of learning,” Nancy said. “I have always felt that I am more able to reach people by asking them to come here. They can walk with me up and down rows, and I can I tell them, ‘This is where your Swiss Chard was grown, and this is where your organic tomatoes came from.’” To own and operate a farm – whether it be five acres or 42 – is to partially surrender your life to its maintenance and the design for its future, and for Nancy and Randy Bentley, the continuing life of the Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill remains a work in progress. In May, ten of the Gotland sheep were about to deliver; Randy was installing flooring in a renovated barn; there were several planned workshops to prepare for; the addition to the main farmhouse was still in progress; and the early spring rainfall was contributing to an overabundant growth of vegetables that were popping from the soil, and needed monitoring.

“When our friends and members of the community visit us, a lot of them say, ‘Look at how much you’ve done on the farm,’ but in reality, we look around and know that there is so much more for us to do here,” Nancy said. “There are moments, however, when I tell Randy, ‘Let’s just enjoy this for a while.’” To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com. Fair Weather Farm at Fairhill is located at 5821 Telegraph Road, Elkton, Md. 21921. The farm holds an open market for the general public on Thursdays from 2 to 6 p.m., from June 12 – Aug. 14, and Aug. 28-Nov. 6. To learn more, visit www.FairWeatherCSA. com, or to keep up to date on upcoming classes, special events and workshops, follow them on Facebook. Photo by Shannon Uhl

The farm also sells honey, which is cultivated from a bee apiary on the farm.

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|Around Cecil County|

Cecil Leadership Institute ex library services aimed at gro region’s economic outlook

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explores growing k

In its quest to learn different styles of leadership qualities within the private and public sectors of Cecil County institutions, the Class of 2019 Cecil Leadership Institute spent an entire morning discovering the behind the scenes operations of the Cecil County Public Library (CCPL) system. “Our mission is to provide lifelong educational and cultural opportunities to everyone in Cecil County.

Whether someone needs help starting a new business, locating that hard-to-find book, or looking for the answer to a lingering question, we are here to help,” said Morgan Miller, Director of the Cecil County Public Library. “We want to empower all learners in the community as the library is the community’s knowledge base and the go-to-place to learn.” Within Cecil County, there are libraries in Elkton, Chesapeake City, Perryville, Rising Sun, Cecilton, Port Deposit and North East, along with an Outreach Bookmobile. The exciting news for the CCPL is this spring’s groundbreaking for its newest branch located in North East on the property across from Food Lion and Lowes. Today’s libraries service more than 400,000 visitors and handle more than 930,000 materials annually. These include books, DVD and Bluray movies, musical CDs, books on tape and disc, and even electronic books. The CCPL checked out more than 100,000 digital items in 12 months. There are more than 64,500 library card holders in the county and 18,000 Student Virtual Library Card holders. These cards allow every student and teacher in the Cecil County Public School District to access online research, homework help and check out up to five books. Continued on Page 54

Courtesy photo

The Class of 2019 Cecil Leadership Institute explored the behind the scenes operations of the Cecil County Public Library system.

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Cecil Leadership Continued from Page 53

“The services provided by the library are incredible, and through the Cecil Leadership program, I have gained a better understanding of the important businesses and institutions within Cecil County,” said Richard Starr, Cecil County’s Office of Economic Developments recently hired economic development coordinator. “The goal of Cecil Leadership is to discover ways to build stronger communities. It is hard to do that when the people of Cecil County do not know about these services and resources within the county.” Starr is one of the 22 members of the 2019 Cecil Leadership Institute program. The Cecil Leadership Institute provides a framework where existing and emerging leaders in business, government, and tourism engage, Continued on Page 56

Courtesy photo

Librarian Katelyn McLimans explains to Justin Shapiro and Eric Spero how to program the iPad to control the robotic ball during a visit to the Perryville Public Library by the 2019 Cecil Leadership Institute.

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Cecil Leadership Continued from Page 54

collaborate and commit to Cecil County’s ongoing development. This unique learning opportunity exposes participants to diverse perspectives on issues affecting growth and prosperity. Join the network of leaders who are building the future. The 15-week program also introduces the class to CEOs of companies like W.L. Gore, Herr’s Foods, IKEA, and Warwick Mushroom Farms. “The program is enabling me to see different sides of the county. Despite living in the county my whole life it is proving that I didn’t know as much as I thought I did about the county,” said Robert Nitz, a Sergeant with the Perryville Police Department who has 19 years of service in law enforcement. “The networking opportunities are outstanding.” The program was recommended to Nitz by a graduate of last year’s class, Rising Sun Police Chief Chip Peterson. Through CLI networking opportunities, Starr is developing open communication with

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the Cecil County Public Schools in hopes of better informing students of skills prospective employers are looking to hire to their workforce. “The challenge for manufacturing companies is to recruit someone with soft skills who is reliable and willing to learn the skills they need. It is important for our high school students to know this information,” said Starr. “Also, with Cecil College’s trades training programs, it is up to us to inform manufacturers where they can get their workforce trained.” Back at the CCPL, services also target startup businesses by providing business plan help, small business startup guidance, small business programs, resume writing workshops, resources for non-profits and much more. There is free WiFi at all the locations for use by small startup businesses along with access to printers, scanners, and computers. This approach to small businesses allowed the libraries’ meeting rooms to host more than 780 meetings in 2017 with nearly 5,000 attendees.

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|Cecil County Life Photo Essay|

At the peak of th Text by Richard L. Gaw At its essential purpose, the purpose of any yacht club is to provide access to facilities activities that meet the needs and interests of its recreational boating and social members. What it can’t always promise is a tranquil setting, panoramic views and spectacular sunsets, and this is where the North East Yacht Club exceeds expectations. Continued on Page 60

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Since its beginnings almost 90 years ago, the North East River Yacht Club has offered its members some of the most spectacular views imaginable of the Chesapeake Bay. But there’s so much more than just the setting sun off the water that makes it one of the premiere yacht clubs of its kind

Cecil County Life | Spring/Summer 2019 | www.cecilcountylife.com

the Chesapeake

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North East River Yacht Club Continued from Page 58

The North East River Yacht Club (NERYC) is one of the oldest full service yacht clubs on the Chesapeake Bay. This hidden gem enjoys a prime waterfront location on the headwaters of the Northeast River. Over the years, the club’s 500 feet of waterfront property has become synonymous with some of the best water views in Maryland. Its modern marina incorporates a state-of-the-art system of floating piers and wave attenuators which provide access to 69 modern slips, 12 moorings, transient space, and an on-site pump out facility, dinghy launch and storage on the sheltered waters of the Northeast River. Continued on Page 62

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North East River Yacht Club Continued from Page 60

The North East River Yacht Club traces its origins to July 1930, when a group of yachtsmen interested in safe boating and good fellowship invested $5,000 toward the start of a yacht club. Soon after, a certificate of incorporation for North East River Yacht Club, Inc. was recorded in Maryland. “The object of this Club,” the certificate stated, “shall be to encourage the sport of yachting, to promote the science of seamanship and navigation, to provide a suitable Clubhouse, Anchorage and Piers for the use of its boating members and to provide facilities for the recreation and social activities of all its members, both boaters and non-boaters.” Continued on Page 64

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North East River Yacht Club Continued from Page 62

NERYC facilities include a clubhouse with meeting and banquet and patio areas, a restaurant and bar, a modern marina with floating piers, and picnic area that even has its own small beach where swimming is allowed. There is simply no better spot to enjoy the water, your boat and the company of family and friends. The club is open year-round and offers a calendar filled with events and activities for its diverse membership. Activities include a variety of socials, adult sail boat racing, junior sailing programs, club cruises and educational seminars. Social, sail or power, young or young at heart, the club offers something for everyone. Continued on Page 66

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North East River Yacht Club Continued from Page 64

One of the club’s most popular programs is the “Learn to Sail” summer camp program, which has grown by leaps and bounds since its formalization more than ten years ago. It is open to members and non-members, and its goal is to introduce youngsters to the sport of sailing, nurture their talents, and facilitate opportunities for competition. Young sailors are taught using a combination of lectures, visual aids, practical drills and extensive on-the-water practice during one or more of the four bi-weekly sessions. To learn more about the North East River Yacht Club, visit www.neryc.com Source: www.neryc.com

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|Cecil County Life|

Friday, June 7, 8 to 9 p.m.

Fireworks at the Vineyard

Cherry Harvest Party

Chaeau Bu-De, Chesapeake City Join us for a night of fireworks at the vineyard! The fireworks show will begin at dusk with live jazz music by Khari Hayden from 5 to 8 p.m. Bring your blankets and chairs for a beautiful evening out with the family. No outside food or drinks are permitted. Wine and food are for sale in the Tasting Room. Rain date for the fireworks will be Friday, June 14.

Milburn Orchards, Elkton Homemade and hand-cranked ice cream making demonstrations for the flavor of the weekend theme (11:30 a..m. and 2:30 p.m.), a pie-eating contest for kids (12:30 p.m. each day), and a pedal tractor pull competition for kids (1:30 p.m.).

Saturday, June 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vintage Era Baseball at Dove Valley

Annual Secret Garden Tour North East The guided auto tour features eight “secret” gardens in North East area on June 8 (rain or shine). Tickets are $15 (available at Town Hall) in advance, or $20 day of the event (315 S. Main St., North East).

Saturday, June 22, 1 to 5 p.m.

Rising Sun Watch 19th-century style Base Ball games at the winery. The tasting room will be open. Thursday, June 27, 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, June 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Downtown Elkton Classic Car Show

Antique Car, Truck, Tractor and Machinery Show

Elkton Classic cars, live entertainment, 50/50 games, door prizes and trophies.

820 Appleton Rd., Elkton Antique cars, trucks, tractors and machinery will be on display, with vendors & demonstrations. Sunday, June 16, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Wines, Vines & Automobile Car Show Chateau Bu-De, Chesapeake City Enjoy Father’s Day with a classic and luxury car show on the farm. There will be live music, food for purchase and a pop-up cigar shop.

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Saturday and Sunday, June 22 and 23, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Saturday, June 29, 7 to 11 a.m.

Canal 5K Run/Walk Chesapeake City The 11th Chesapeake City Canal 5k Run/Walk will be held on the Ben Cardin Trail in North Chesapeake City. Start and finish at Bank Street in front of Schaefer’s Restaurant. Register early for a commemorative T-shirt. Refreshments, awards and much more. Proceeds go to help fund a recycling program. Bring a non-perishable food item for the Food Pantry, sponsored by CCEA. Register online at races2run.com.

Tuesday, July, to Saturday, July 6, 6 to 11 p.m.

North East Fire Company Carnival North East Community Park Rides, games and festival foods. Wenesday, July 3, 6 to 10 p.m.

23rd Annual Salute to Cecil County Veterns & Fireworks North East Rides, games and festival foods. Thursday, July 4, 7 to 8 p.m.

Fourth of July Fireworks Chateau Bu-De, Chesapeake City Celebrate Independence Day with live music, food and fireworks right off the docks. Friday, July 5, 5 to 10 p.m.

Independence Day Celebration and Fireworks Chesapeake City This event spans Pell Gardens and both sides of Chesapeake City. Enjoy an evening of food, music and fireworks. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. in the Pell Gardens with food and music. The fireworks start around 9 p.m. The best viewing is along the canal on either the north or south sides of town. Saturday and Sunday, July 6 and 7, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Blastin’ Blueberry Harvest Party Milburn Orchards, Elkton Homemade and hand-cranked ice cream making demonstrations for the flavor of the weekend theme

(11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), pie-eating contest for kids (12:30 p.m. each day), pedal tractor pull competition for kids (1:30 p.m.). Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (except Friday 19th)

Cecil County Fair Elkton Fair Hill Park There is something for everyone at the Cecil County Fair. Highlights include the carnival midway, demolition derby, tractor and truck pulls, a professionally sanctioned rodeo, and live shows. There are also many competitions for 4-H youth and the public. Try the pie eating contest, cow chip toss, hay bale toss, big wheel race, 5-K run/walk, and more. Saturday and Sunday, July 20 and 21, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Blackberry Bash Harvest Party Milburn Orchards, Elkton Homemade and hand-cranked ice cream making demonstrations for the flavor of the weekend theme (11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), pie-eating contest for kids (12:30 p.m. each day), pedal tractor pull competition for kids (1:30 p.m.). Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 3 and 4, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Peach Party Weekend Milburn Orchards Elkton Homemade and hand-cranked ice cream making demonstrations for the flavor of the weekend theme (11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), pie-eating contest for kids (12:30 p.m. each day), pedal tractor pull competition for kids (1:30 p.m.). Continued on Page 72

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Calendar of Events Continued from Page 71 Saturday, Aug. 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 17, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mount Harmon Lotus Blossom Festival

Rockin’ Raspberry Harvest Party

Earleville The Mount Harmon Lotus Blossom Art & Nature Festival features an array of nature-inspired artisans and craft vendors, authors and naturalists, nature and craft activities for kids, plantation wagon rides, colonial reenactors and living history demonstrations, live bluegrass music, local food and beverage vendors, Manor House tours and more. Saturday, Aug. 10, 1 to 6 p.m.

Lower Ferry Festival Roundhouse Drive, Perryville The whole family will enjoy live music, food trucks, a cornhole tournament, car cruise, children’s games and activities, raffles, beer and wine. Free to attend.

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Milburn Orchards, Elkton Homemade and hand-cranked ice cream making demonstrations for the flavor of the weekend theme (11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.), pie-eating contest for kids (12:30 p.m. each day), pedal tractor pull competition for kids (1:30 p.m.). Saturday, Aug. 24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Annual Chesapeake City Car Show Chespeake City Come see your favorite classic cars. There will be awards, raffles, and many restaurants donated $125 gift cards. All fees benefit the Lions Club Charities. Saturday, Sept. 7, 3 to 6 p.m.

Tap to Tavern Rodgers Tavern, Perryville This festival at historic Rodgers Tavern features food trucks, beer and wine vendors. Live music by What’s Next. This is a ticketed event.

Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 14 and 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fall Festival Weekend starts

Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Winestock Festival

Saturday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m.

Dove Valley, Rising Sun Break out the tie-dye and put flowers in your hair for this festival featuring three live bands, artisan displays, and samples of awardwinning wines from Dove Valley Winery, Turkey Point Vineyard and Whistle Stop Winery. Both beer and wines will be available.

Fall Brew at the Zoo

Friday and Saturday, Oct. 4 and 5, 7 to 10 p.m.

Milburn Orchards, Elkton Fall fun for the entire family.

Plumpton Park Zoo, Rising Sun Tickets include live entertainment, a buffet dinner, beer or wine and a souvenir mug. Saturday, Sept. 21, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

23rd Annual Elkton Fall Festival Elkton, North and Main streets Live entertainment, contests, crafters, vendors, children’s activities and fun for the whole family.

Zombies at the Zoo Plumpton Park Zoo, Rising Sun There will be three haunted attractions open -- The Haunted Walking Tour, Fright Maze, and Zombie Paintball. Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

National Revolutionary War Festival Mount. Harmon, Earleville The National Revolutionary War Re-enactment & Colonial Festival features more than 500 reenactors, colonial craft vendors and merchants, and living history activities for the whole family to enjoy.

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|Cecil County Business|

Building a be Elk River Brewing Company is just one part of a Cecil County craft beer revolution

The team behind Elk River Brewing Company: Tim Ward, Lee Lewis, Jessica and Brad Carillo, and Joanna DiPaola. 74

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beer eer scene By John Chambless Staff Writer

W

hen it comes to drawing a crowd, few things bring people together like good beer. And when it comes to downtown Elkton, the burgeoning craft beer scene can be attributed to Elk River Brewing Company. While it’s been open only since October 2018, Elk River has been followed by Valhalla Brewing, located just north of Elkton, and Maryland Beer Company, which recently opened on Bridge Street. That adds up to enough locations to draw curious beer fans from as far as north Jersey and Annapolis, who find out about the brews through internet resources such as Untappd and venture into Elkton to see what’s going on. That’s good for the breweries, but it’s even better for Cecil County. Just before a regular weekly Wednesday meeting last

month, the owners and staff members of Elk River Brewing sat at the large bar and discussed how the dream of opening a brewery became a reality, and what they’re doing to keep the momentum going. Brad Carrillo graduated from college in Colorado in 2002 and took a job as a property developer for Patriot’s Glen in Elkton. He and his wife both have Colorado roots, so they were well aware of what a brew scene can do for a downtown. “I had been a kitchen brewer,” Brad Carrillo said. “I do enjoy brewing, but I never really got into it.” But he knew and loved all kinds of beers. After buying a home in Elkton, he and his wife started Aspen Property Management in their home in 2006 and eventually outgrew the basement. “I was looking for office space, and rented an office space four doors down from what would become Elk River Brewing,” he said. “The county offices moved out at some point, but my business continued to grow, so I moved Continued on Page 76

The interior of Elk River Brewing Company has a comfortable, homey atmosphere. www.cecilcountylife.com | Spring/Summer 2019 | Cecil County Life

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Elk River Brewing Company Continued from Page 75

down the street and became pretty involved in Elkton. I’m a big advocate for the town. Eventually, the business grew even more and relocated.� But Carrillo loved the downtown and saw the promise held by Main Street. While an initial brewery idea never got off the ground in 2015, Carrillo did buy the storefront at 112 E. Main St., which had been the longtime home of Minster’s Jewelers but had most recently been turned into offices. When the building was vacated in 2017, Carrillo and his friend, Lee Lewis, began to dream of what would become Elk River Brewing Company. The plan simmered before “I told my wife, ‘I think we should put a brewery here,’ and she didn’t say no,� Carrillo said, laughing. “She didn’t quite say yes, either. But I took it as a yes.� The zoning process was remarkably smooth

Head brewer Scott Bieber (left) and assistant brewer Tim Ward.

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Elk River Brewing moved into a longtime business fixture on Main Street in Elkton.

on a local level, he said, because Elkton officials saw the value of bringing people back downtown. To get federal approval took about six months, Carrillo said, but once the paperwork was lined up, demolition got underway. Mark Clark and Associates was the architect. The office walls had to come out, first of all. Carrillo said he was most focused on the bar taps, and his dream of seeing all 16 in operation. The heavy work was done by everyone who could pitch in, while Jessica Carrillo is responsible for the resulting décor and the clean, open look of the bar area. Scott Bieber, who has been brewing beer for 30 years, was instrumental in setting up the basement brewing operation. And he was persistent. “He kept returning my messages,” Bieber said as Carrillo laughed. “For six months, I was the extra help with the contractor.” The resulting space is comfortable and airy. There are several TVs, and board games for customers to play, but the main focus of the room is on the beer, not on distractions. There are some 1920s newspapers that were uncovered in the floorboards that are now framed and displayed, as a nod to the building’s past. Downstairs, a thoroughly modern brewing system is in place, although the walls retain the layered look of the building’s 150 years of history. To keep the bar area clear of kegs – and to avoid having to haul kegs Continued on Page 78

A cooling room and pipe system carries beers upstairs to the taps behind the bar.

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Elk River Brewing Company Continued from Page 77

up from the basement every time one was needed – there’s a system of cooled tubes that bring the beer up on demand to the tap from a chilled basement storage room. There is a storage room in the back that could be turned into a kitchen when the time is right, Carrillo said. Presently, customers can bring in their own food, or buy sandwiches and snacks from the Central Tavern, located directly across the street. Since there’s no kitchen in the bar, no one under 21 is allowed inside. “At some point we will put a kitchen in, or get the law changed,” Carrillo said. “And we’re not sure which would be the path of least resistance. We have ball fields behind us, and if parents want to come in with their children after a game for dinner and a beer, that’s been a little bit of an

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The centerpiece of the bar at Elk River is this 16-tap system.

issue. Other than that, everything’s been great.” Pointing the way toward future development, there is a shaded yard out

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Continued on Page 80

Locally sourced malt and hops are stored in the brewing area.

Elk River Brewing Company Continued from Page 78

back that would be an ideal beer garden when the time comes. And the parking lot in the back would be a great spot for a food truck. But for now, Carrillo said, Elk River is focused on keeping all 16 taps running, offering a range of beers for every palate, and in becoming an integral part of the Elkton business community. There are plans for an early June event that will unite all three local brewpubs, there’s a street party planned for June, and the Fourth of July weekend will be another chance for Elk River to join Valhalla and Maryland Beer Company to show off what they can do. “It’s better to be friendly than in competition,” said Lee Lewis, the general manager at Elk River Brewing. “Especially on weekends, we get people who are making their own tours, going around to all the places. It benefits everybody if we work together.” “Most of us downtown see the value of feeding off each other’s success,” Carrillo said. That spirit of sharing is common in the craft brew business, Carrillo said, citing beer events in Colorado where brewers swap ideas with each other for the good of the business as a whole.

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Elk River Brewing has quickly found a place in the Elkton downtown business community.

For head brewer Scott Bieber and assistant brewer Tim Ward, having gotten the job of filling all 16 taps down pat, it’s time to branch out. “The first core beers we served were ones that I had been home brewing,” Bieber said. “For the first six months, I was really concerned with making enough

styles to fill out all 16 taps. We finally did it in January or February. Now we have beers waiting to be put on. Now that we have a good variety of styles, we’re branching out and doing things that are new to me professionally. We got some bourbon barrels and filled them with a high-gravity stout that will be our anniversary beer in October. We also have a small batch of a sour beer.” “We’re hitting a phase where the beer scene here has grown, and we’ve created a brand in Elk River that our beer’s good,” Carrillo said. “We’re kegging now, and we just got a crowler [canning] machine. That’s something we’d like to see grow here.” And some of the experiments pay off immediately. There was a salted Continued on Page 82

Live entertainment is a regular feature at Elk River Brewing. Continued on Page 81

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Elk River Brewing Company Continued from Page 81

chocolate stout, for instance, that was brewed in a small batch. Fifteen gallons were sold out in two days. “There are five restaurants in the county serving our beer,” Carrillo said. “That seems to grow weekly. We can keep our taps full with our half-kegs, and we can start selfdistributing locally. If we go over the state line, we’d have to have a distributor.” Right now, for every beer aficionado, there’s someone who doesn’t know what the whole craft brew craze is about. “Some of our local customer base has zero idea,” Carrillo said. “We know how to talk to people who come in, and we offer them a taste. Nearly everyone will find a beer they like, and they will come back.” To broaden their appeal, Elk River has branched out to serving wines, sourced from local vineyards Crow Vineyard and Broken Spoke, as well as a line of bourbons. Carrillo said the goal as Elk River approaches its first-year anniversary is to solidify their foundation and then move on to expand, and enter more brewery competitions to get the word out. “I’m proud to show what we do,” he said. On most Fridays, both Bieber and Carrillo hang out in

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In the cellar brewing area, oak barrels will be used for a range of new brews.

the evenings to meet customers and answer questions. First Fridays are busy, and Elk River releases a new beer at each First Friday event, so that draws a crowd. A “Mug Club” limited to 100 patrons is nearly sold out.

The booming beer scene There’s much more to Cecil County’s brew scene than Elk River Brewing Company. With the addition of two other flourishing craft brew operations, a “beer tour” of the region is definitely drawing visitors to the region. Other options include:

But for the small staff of people who make Elk River Brewing run, staying local is always a goal. Their ever-changing beer menu features Octoraro Red, North East River Pale Ale, Mayor Rob Altbier, Bohemia Belgian and many more, showing that when it comes to Cecil County, the beer revolution is definitely here. And here to stay. For more information, visit www.elkriverbrewing.com. To contact Staff Writer John Chambless, email jchambless@chestercounty.com.

Valhalla Brewing Company 41 Cherry Hill Rd., Elkton 443-207-8059 www.valhallabrewco.com www.facebook.com/valhallabrewingco/ Valhalla has live entertainment, and a kitchen that’s open nightly. Maryland Beer Company 601 N. Bridge St., Suite C, Elkton 443-406-7319 www.mdbeerco.com www.facebook.com/marylandbeerco/ No one under 21 is allowed on premises. There is food truck dining, and the space is dog-friendly.

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