FrEE free free | |september | |april oCT 2021 2022 2020 FrEE september 2020
maryland
C r e at i n g a C e r t i f i e d W i l d l i f e H a b i tat rent a cabin from the potomac Appalachian Trail Club c r e at i v e way s t o c o n n e c t w i t h n at u r e 60 things to do in april!
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College Prep is
“
Key School has given me the gift of self-expression. From encouraging self-advocacy in a culture that is collaborative, constructive and supportive, to demanding deep analysis, the school has helped me to flourish as I find my voice. Whether artistic, spoken or written, I am confident in my ability to communicate ideas and connect with my peers in college and beyond.”
Zoe Benitez
, Key School ‘22
Cornell University
Atmospheric Science & Cross-Country
School in #1 Private Anne Arundel County
#5
K-12 Private School in Maryland
2019 - 2021 OUTCOMES
1395+ 25% scored 1395 or higher on the SAT
2
1300 SAT average
(Maryland private school average is 1221)
Learn more about what makes Key School one of the most sought-after educations in Maryland.
chesapeakefamily.com APRIL 2022
80%
received merit scholarships (not including financial aid)
35%
matriculated to STEM-focused programs
41%
matriculated to Research 1 Universities
Key School engages children from 2.5 years of age through grade 12 in a progressive, coeducational, college-preparatory program on its picturesque 15-acre campus located 4 miles from downtown Annapolis. Learn more at keyschool.org.
14%
recruited to play collegiate athletics
p e a a s e k e h C Family
Compare Camps and Costs!
m m e u r S camp Directory
All types!
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Day, Overnight, and Virtual Options Online Today!
For more information:
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April | ChesapeakeFamily.com
in this issue 16
Features
Stay Inspired
14/ HOME SWEET HOME
30/ SAY CHEESE
Four Spots Get Your Cheese and Charcuterie Fix
Your Top Renovations to Increae Home Value
16/ EARTH DAY GUIDE
Special Section
• 17 Create a Certified Wildlife Habitat • 18 Good Green Reads for Kids • 18 Project Clean Stream
24/ SPECIAL CAMP SECTION
• 19 Easy Ways to Help Kids Connect with the Outdoors • 22 Rent a cabin from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club
22
14
DEPARTMENTS New & Notable 09 / Fairy & Gnome Festival 11 / Springtime Safety Tips 12 / Identifying Developmental Delays 13 / Park Spotlight: North Point State Park
05 / PUBLISHER'S LETTER
Turn off your lights to help the enviroment
28 / THINGS TO DO IN APRIL
Things to do for grown-ups, kids and families in April
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EducationWe at Severn far beyond what you know. It’s together. care forreaches one another. And as a community, weabout reach envisioning the impact you make on the world. learn for greater heights. Join us can for our upcoming OpenWe Houses! together. We care for one another. And as a community, we reach for greater heights. Join us for our upcoming Open Houses! October 7, 2021 • 9-11 am Lower School (preschool - grade 5) October 7, 2021 • 9-11 am Lower School (preschool - grade 5) November 4, 2021 • 7-9 pm Middle and Upper School (grades 6-12) November 4, 2021 • 7-9 pm Middle and Upper School (grades 6-12)
DISCOVER WHAT MATTERS AT SEVERN SCHOOL DISCOVER WHAT MATTERS
www.severnschool.com • preschool - grade 12 Severna Park and Arnold, MD • MSDE #161229 www.severnschool.com • preschool - grade 12 Education at Severn reaches far beyond what you know. It’s about Severna Park and Arnold, MD • MSDE #161229
envisioning the impact you can make on the world. We learn together. We care for one another. And as a community, we reach for greater heights. Join us for our upcoming Open Houses! CFL
October 7, 2021 • 3RD 9-11 FLOOR am VIEWS Lower School (preschool - grade 5)
PODCAST November 4, 2021 • 7-9 pm Middle and Upper School (grades 6-12)
WITH JANET
JEFFERSON www.severnschool.com • preschool - grade 12 Severna Park and Arnold, MD • MSDE #161229
Vol. 31 No. 6 PUBLISHER Donna Jefferson ext. 212 djefferson@jecoannapolis.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jillian Amodio Laura Boycourt Nancy Parode Kerrigan Stern ART DIRECTOR Jenny Patrick C. ext. 202 AD DESIGN Jessica Kannegieser EVENTS AND ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER Claire Darcy ext. 204 ClaireK@jecoannapolis.com ADVERTISING Linda Benkhadra linda@jecoannapolis.com 240-277-4215 PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY: Jefferson Communications, LLC 121 Cathedral Street 3A Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-263-1641 Fax: 443-782-1495 These materials are neither sponsored by or endorsed by the Board of Education of Anne Arundel County and all other Maryland counties, the superintendents or the schools. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family Life of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of Chesapeake Family Life, by any means without permission, is strictly
prohibited. ©2021 Jefferson Communications, LLC.
NEW TOPICS EACH WEEK STREAMING EVERY FRIDAY
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2020 2021
CIRCULATION AUDIT BY
The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family of products or services. Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of Chesapeake Family, by any means without permission, is strictly prohibited. ©2011 Jefferson Communications, LLC.
publisher's letter
Walk for the Woods
S
cenic Rivers Land Trust is hosting Walk for the Woods on Saturday, April 30 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Bacon Ridge Natural Area in Crownsville (rain date is May 1). Walk for the Woods gives families the opportunity to hike, learn about and explore this undeveloped oasis in Anne Arundel County. Bacon Ridge Natural Area’s 1,000+ acres are graced with upland streams, lily-filled ponds, nesting birds, and spring wildflowers. Guided hikes with wildlife experts will be available to help hikers identify wildlife, native plants, birds, and more. Self-guided hike options will also be offered. Registration for guided hikes will open approximately three weeks before the event. srlt.org/resourcesevents/walk-ride-for-thewoods/
Pick Up Trash
A
pril 1970 was the first year that Earth Day was recognized and celebrated. Have we made much progress? That’s certainly a question for debate. If nothing else, I’m more aware now of how much needs to be done. What I don’t understand is why we aren’t doing more? There are a lot of simple things that we can do that when multiplied can have a big impact. Why do people still leave all of their lights on, even when they are asleep? From my bedroom window I can see the new homes still under construction and every single window is lit. Why? On the block that I live on, almost every house keeps their outdoor lights on all through the night. Why? Aside from the wasted power, the lights at night also confuse migratory birds. The amount of trash people leave behind, even in public parks and especially around playing fields, is appalling. There’s a big sheet of plastic stuck high in a tree near the Veterans Cemetary in Annapolis. Our creeks are full of trash. Plastic bottles and aluminum cans litter wetlands, especially when the water is close to a nice picnic or meeting spot. I believe that it is well understood that the environment we live in is a delicate ecosystem where one building block supports the next. The loss of habitat for birds and other pollinators is setting the stage for a dangerous lack of diversity. What happens without them? In
California farmers have to rent bees to come in and pollinate their almond trees. And don’t get me started on trees. It’s almost like some people see trees as the enemy that need to be cut down and replaced with small, more manageable bushes. Maryland has less than 1% of land that is undisturbed forest. One family, and then another, and another can start to make a difference. Here are some simple things your family can do. • Plant native trees and flowers to create a habitat for pollinators • Not only pick up your own trash, but pick up any trash you see when you visit a park or take a hike • Turn off your lights at night • Be very careful treating your yard with fertilizers and pesticides. Do you need to do that?
Your Maryland Earth Day Guide Check out these articles:
Want to learn more about what you can do to improve the environment? Here are some tips from the Chesapeake Bay Program. chesapeakebay.net/action/howtotips
Creating a Certified Wildlife Habitat Page 17 Easy Ways to Help Kids Connect with the Outdoors Page 19
Donna Jefferson, Publisher DJ@jecoannapolis.com
Rent a cabin from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club Page 22
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instagram.com/ chesapeake_family
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YEARS The Big Picture 70 + Films 4 Days 8
chesapeakefamily.com APRIL 2022
March 31 to April 3 2022
new & notable LIFESTYLE
I
TRENDS
EDUCATION
HEALTH
NEWS
Magical Unicorn Rides! Fairy & Gnome Home Festival
t’s fairy and gnome season at Annmarie! Join us for a magical day of family nature play as you travel through the six realms of Annmarie to discover an enchanting variety of activities in the garden. As you explore each realm, you and your family will meet fairy friends, discover hidden gnome homes, and enjoy crafts and nature explorations. You can also meet sweet baby animals and ride a unicorn, enjoy live music, and frolic in the Fairy Lolly. Food and drink will be available. It’s an over-the-top day of magicalicious fun for your family to imagine, create,
and explore. Advance timed-entry tickets required for admission and unicorn rides; admission: $8/person, kids 2 & under free; members free; unicorn rides $10. Reduced price admission tickets available for SNAP card holders. Rain or shine event, no pets, no smoking. Sunday, April 24, 2022, 11:00am-4:00pm; advance timed-entry tickets required for event & unicorn rides annmariegarden.org. 13470 Dowell Road, Solomons, MD 20688.
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new & notable prone to falling. Helmets and protective pads can keep some of the most vulnerable areas of their bodies safe from fractures and other injuries. Repel bugs. Spending more time
outdoors means the potential for bug bites. And while these may seem like a harmless nuisance, there are millions of people that are severely allergic to different bug bites and stings. Whether it’s a balm, spray, or cream they put on, make this a step before they leave the house. And just like sunscreen, kids should be reapplying as needed. Bug bites pose the risk of contracting a serious illness or disease, so not only are parents stopping kids from itching like crazy, but they’re also keeping them healthy, Springtime clothes and shoes. Kids
Springtime Safety Tips
are likely to be running around in the spring, so they’ll need clothes and shoes to match their active lifestyle. It’s likely that jeans and a nice sweater won’t cut it, and their flimsy summer flip flops from last year aren’t enough protection for their feet. Parents should be sure to update their kids’ wardrobe with t-shirts, tank tops, shorts and sneakers so they can run and play confidently. And for younger kids that are just learning to walk and crawl, parents should invest in protective clothing. Sandra Aris creates pants for kids with pads integrated in the knee and butt areas that protect them from bumps and bruises and help them get back up after they fall.
Enjoying warmer weather
Make sure they get some down time.
A
s the days get longer and weather starts heating back up, kids are excited to release their pent-up winter energy during the spring. Riding bikes with friends, playing sports, hitting the trails with family, and spending more time outdoors is something even younger kids look forward to. But as they head outside more, they become more prone to common springtime injuries and accidents, especially babies and toddlers just learning to walk and crawl. However, parents don’t have to
bubble wrap their kids to keep them safe during the spring. Make sure they don’t skip their gear. Helmets, knee pads and elbow
pads aren’t meant to make kids look funny, even though that’s what they may believe. This protective gear can actually help prevent serious injuries and accidents. Riding a bike, roller skating, skateboarding, etc. are all activities where kids should be wearing this equipment. Head injuries are common in children, and they’re more
Every parent knows that extended outside playtime can get hectic quickly. By helping kids take a minute to collect themselves and their thoughts, decide what activity they want to do next, and relax for a few minutes, they can keep things from getting out of control. This is also a perfect time for snacks, drinking water, and talking to kids about the new adventures they’re having outside, and even get in on the action yourself! Down time can help parents connect with kids and even suggest other fun activities for them to do. — By Sandra Aris APRIL 2022
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new & notable
Identifying Developmental Delays Gets An Update A new pediatric checklist using data and clinician experience improves early detection
R
evising Developmental Milestones Developmental experts partnered with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to create new and clearer guidelines for parents, teachers and health care practitioners. The CDC in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), recently revised the milestone guidelines for their developmental surveillance campaign, Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE), using the help of experts across the country including a developmental pediatrician and researcher from Kennedy Krieger Institute. Learn the Signs. Act Early. (LTSAE) The revised guidelines are written in family-friendly language and identify the behaviors that 75 percent or more of children can be expected to exhibit at a certain age based on existing data, developmental resources, and clinician experience. This differs from other
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traditional lists of milestones, including earlier LTSAE checklists, which used 50th percentile or average-age milestones. Pediatrics, an AAP journal, published the article, “Evidence-Informed Milestones for Developmental Surveillance Tools,” which details the process behind the revised guidelines. Identify Developmental Delays Early Using the average age of achievement means that only half of children can be expected to achieve that milestone by that age. However, clinicians reported that following the old guideline often was not helpful to individual families who had concerns about their child’s development; in some cases, it led to delays in diagnoses as clinicians and families chose a wait-and-see approach. “The earlier a child is identified with a developmental delay the better, as treatment as well as learning interventions can begin,” says Paul Lipkin, MD, who provides clinical
services to patients at the Institute’s Center for Development and Learning and is a professor of pediatrics at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He assisted with LTSAE’s revisions. “At the same time, we don’t want to cause unnecessary confusion for families or professionals. Revising the guidelines with expertise and data from clinicians in the field accomplishes these goals. Review of a child’s development with these milestones also opens up a continuous dialogue between a parent and the health care provider about their child’s present and future development.” Other key changes to the guideline include: • Adding checklists for ages 15 and 30 months; now there is a checklist for every well-child visit from ages 2 months to 5 years • Identifying additional social and emotional milestones (Example: Smiles on their own to get your attention, age 4 months) • Removing vague language like “may” or “begins” when referring to certain milestones and using plain language instead • Removing duplicate milestones • Providing new, open-ended questions to use in discussion with families (Example: Is there anything that your child does or does not do that concerns you?) • Revising and expanding tips and activities for developmental promotion and early relational health Providing Parents with Talking Points In addition to providing a better surveillance tool to identify developmental delays, LTSAE educates families about typical development and provide parents conversational entry points to discuss their child’s health and development with their pediatrician. After the revised guidelines were completed, they were presented to parents of different educational backgrounds, income levels and racial groups to determine how easy they were to understand and follow. The LTSAE awareness campaign began in 2005 and since then has provided free resources to families, healthcare providers, early childhood educators and others to support early identification of children with developmental delays and disabilities.
new & notable
North Point State Park
N
Park Spotlight
orth Point State Park is one of those Maryland parks that has quite a history, and also provides a place to enjoy the bay, both on the shore and hiking through marshy woodlands. History of North Point State Park Located in Baltimore County near Sparrows Point, the park is on a peninsula jutting out into the Chesapeake Bay on one side and overlooking the Patapsco River on the other side. During the War of 1812, the ships that bombarded Ft. McHenry sailed past the land that is now North Point State Park. Defenders Trail, which was used by soldiers during the War of 1812 runs right through the park. From 1905 - 1947 the land was a popular summer destination called Bay Shore Amusement Park. The original trolley station is now used as a picnic area, and a beautiful, restored fountain nearby, leads to the Visitor Center. The Visitor Center was designed to resemble the amusement park's former hotel and restaurant, and boasts an educational science room, multiple history and natureoriented exhibits, including a large saltwater fish tank, and a conference room.
Trails
There are six different trails winding through North Point State Park ranging from .2 miles to 4.6 miles. A trail map can be downloaded from the website. They are all relatively flat and easy, although in some places you might come across some muddy spots. An all-terrain stroller will be able to navigate the trails. The 1,300 acres of North Point State Park provide an excellent environment for deer, water fowl, beaver, racoons and birds. Observation Point is an overlook perfect for quiet observation. It is accessed by the Black Marsh Trail, about 2.2 miles. In the summer, make sure to use some bug spray.
Water Access
The parking lot nearest the Visitor Center has easy access to the Bay Front Gazebo, locations for fishing, restrooms and a stroll near the water. There are picnic tables, grills and even small areas with beach access that are exactly what little kids need to splash around in. A long fishing pier stretches out into the bay and has enough room for fishermen, picnicking and just relaxing next to the water.
QUICK LOOK AT NORTH POINT STATE PARK 8400 North Point Rd, Edgemere dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/central/northpoint.aspx ADMISSION $4/car Maryland residents. HOURS 8am-Sunset. Visitor Center open 9am-5pm, Memorial Weekend through Labor Day. PARKING free PETS Dogs are allowed on a leash
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Home Sweet Home Top 6 Renovations to Increase Your Home’s Value By Kerrigan Stern
W
hen it comes to life’s expenses, buying a house is one of the greatest -- and remodeling can put an extra pinch in your wallet too. But just like homes, not all upgrades are created equal. Check out these five renovations that will both beautify your home and increase its value.
Garage Door Replacement
Where you put your car(s) may be just as valuable as the cars themselves. According to Zonda’s 2021 Cost vs. Value annual report, a garage door replacement will significantly increase your home’s value, offering the highest ROI of any addition -- and for good reason. With this renovation/replacement, your home gets the added perks of energy efficiency, curb appeal, security/ safety, and home-style accommodation.
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would consider a newly-finished kitchen to be a key factor in their decision to buy. So if you’re thinking about putting your house on the market, make sure you give extra attention to your kitchen.
Deck, Patio or Porch Addition
Whether you’re cooking burgers or catching some rays, a deck, patio or porch outside your home is useful for many occasions -- and it’s also useful for optimizing the value of your home. Regardless of whether you’re installing something new or renovating an existing structure, a new deck, patio or porch will undoubtedly increase your home’s value. But your returns depend on which specific extension you want added to your home. For instance, installing a quality porch over a deck can provide a nearly 25% higher ROI on your home, according to RST Brands. These additions are so valuable because homeowners can use the final product in multiple ways. These could include an outdoor kitchen, dining area, pool and more -- each of which will provide a significant increase to the value of your home.
Manufactured Stone Veneer
Bathroom Remodel
The bathroom is arguably one of the rooms in your home that’s most frequently visited, by both yourself and your guests. In fact, such heavy foot traffic has allotted bathroom remodels the largest returns when it comes to boosting your home’s value, according to Zillow. Per HGTV, you can expect about a 102% return when you remodel your bathroom. From caulking to replacing your vanity and fixtures, the versatility of what you can do with a bathroom renovation can help you stick to your budget.
Kitchen Remodel
If you’re making renovations and love to cook, or just love to eat, a modern kitchen remodel should be a no-brainer! “The two areas of the home with the most value are the kitchen and bathrooms,” explains Taylor Lynne, a licensed real estate agent with the Sebelhaus Team. “Adding new light fixtures, a neutral color scheme, and sleek appliances will help any seller stand out from the competition.” This sort of modernization can provide a substantial boost to your home’s value. According to USA Cabinet Store, 80% of consumers prospecting homes
Replacing your siding with stone veneer can also substantially add to your home’s curbside appeal. According to Zonda, manufactured stone veneer was at its peak value in 2021. In addition to its appealing look, stone veneer’s high worth comes from its many other positive attributes, such as its low installation price and minimal upkeep. This rings especially true when comparing manufactured to authentic stone veneers, with manufactured stone ranging from $5.50 to $10.75 per square foot and natural stone pricing in at up to $48, according to Modernize Home Services.
A Green Remodel
These days, buyers want information about energy expenses, health risks or benefits, and quality of materials in the homes they are considering. While it’s not easy to change these things, it pays to eliminate any obvious negatives. A musty odor in a basement, outdated heating equipment, or windows in poor condition all detract from the appeal of your home, and these things can be remedied. More important, when you do make changes in your home, whether it’s a new kitchen or bath, a porch, or an addition, doing it green can pay off if you want to sell. Your green remodel gives you a story to tell, and the extra care you showed in designing the changes creates a sparkle. “We’ve seen several cases where the green remodel sold the home” says Polly Bart of Greenbuilders, Inc. www. greenbuilders.com. When a green home remodel includes lovely natural or locally-made materials, good indoor air quality, and comfortable, cost-effective heating and cooling,
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e or l p x E
RECREATION AND PARKS
SUMMER CAMPS 2022
We make
Get Wild This Spring! Create a Certified Wildlife Habitat
T
urn your yard into a Certified Wildlife habitat by providing a space where birds, butterflies, insects and amphibians can flourish. One of the biggest challenges to wildlife is the loss of places for them to live and it is essential to the overall health of our environment that we maintain the health of local pollinators. It is estimated that in the last decade 90% of the population of Monarch Butterfly, a chief pollinator, has decreased. The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) has created a program to encourage people to build a wildlife habitat where they live. NWF provides homeowners with a detailed checklist of the requirements to have your backyard certified as a Wildlife Habitat. It’s an easy process to create a wildlife habitat and you don’t need a lot of space. Even balcony gardens can meet the requirements. Here are the five essentials:
life better!
AACOUNTY.ORG/RECPARKS
• FOOD: Your habitat needs three
types of plants or supplemental feeders • WATER: Your habitat needs to provide clean water for wildlife to drink and bathe • COVER: Wildlife needs at least two places to find shelter from the weather and predators • PLACES TO RAISE YOUNG: You need at least two places for wildlife to engage in courtship behavior, mate, and bear and raise their young In addition you will need to use at least two sustainable practices in the care and maintenance of your space. There is a $20 application fee and once your application is approved you will receive a sign to display in your yard. You can find a detailed listing of requirements and apply online at nwf.org/certifiedwildlifehabitat
April Events: Outdoor Artists. All Ages, April 18, 11am-3 pm Advanced registration ages 9-17. GreenScape Day, April 23, 9 am-1pm Girl Scouts must register to earn badges. Spring Brownie Day, April 24, 9am-1pm Girl Scouts must register to earn badges.
Family Activities: Creek Critters Nature Walk, Every Thursday, 10:30 am Recipe for Action, on Zoom, Every Friday, 10:30 am New in April! Visits inside the museum by appointment.
Spring Family MEMBERSHIP $30 through June 30 theccm.org | 410.990.1993 25 Silopanna Road | Annapolis, MD 21403 info@theccm.org
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T
GOOD READS
he staff picks for April include these three delightfully illustrated books that help kids relate to nature. There is the answer to who keeps stealing away the moon. A charming explanation for why the constellations are there, and a comparison of a child’s hand to the paws of different critters.
Project Clean Stream The Moon Thief
Written by Kristine Keck lllustrated by Heidi Barnett
Star Fishing
Written by Sang-Keun Kim
How Big is Your Paw?
Written by Kristin J. Russo
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I
Boots on for trash-free streams
n 2004 a group of volunteers headed out to clean up a local stream. Since then it’s become an annual April event with thousands of people participating to pick up trash in area streams, creeks, rivers and parks. Project Clean Stream, hosted by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, brings together residents, local businesses, environmental organizations, local governments, community groups, houses of worship, schools and universities. Any group can organize and host a Project Clean Stream event. Through Project Clean Stream cleanups, volunteers have the opportunity to pick up trash in their communities, discover how their everyday decisions affect the overall health of their local waterways, and ultimately foster a healthier and more sustainable relationship with the Chesapeake. Kids can see what happens when trash isn’t properly disposed of, or they don’t remember to pick up sporting equipment and balls.
MARYLAND EART H DAY G UI DE
April 2, 9am-12pm
Cape St. Claire, 1343 Cape St Claire Rd, Annapolis. April 3, 11am-3pm.
St. Martin’s Lutheran Church Youth Group will be hosting a Project Clean Up Sunday, at Truxton Park. April 9, 10am-12pm
Meet at Weems Whalen Field, 935 Spa Rd, Annapolis to clean two sites in the Spa Creek headwaters. April 9, 9am-12pm.
Jug Bay’s Patuxent Wetlands Park Clean Up. Please meet at1426 Mt. Zion Marlboro Road, Lothian. The park entrance road runs north west, parallel to Rt. 4 northbound, from the Shell gas station in Wayson’s Corner. We will be picking up trash along the Patuxent River shoreline. Free. Ages 8 and up. Registration required. To register go to jugbay.org Find more clean ups on: chesapeakenetwork.org/groups/ project-clean-stream.
Nurturing with Nature:
Easy Ways to Help Kids Connect with the Great Outdoors
By Laura Adams Boycourt
W
hether your family is hoping to foster an appreciation for all living things or simply cut down on screen time and get some fresh air, there are plenty of accessible and meaningful ways to help children develop and grow their relationship with nature.
Get Crafty
Glue. Crayons. Construction paper. Various pieces of nature gathered from the yard. That’s all it will take for your little artist to create some amazing nature-centric masterpieces. From designing a mosaic out of interesting rocks, bark, and acorns to making a colorful leaf rubbing, developing your child’s budding appreciation of nature is as easy as adding a little imagination to everyday backyard items. Families can even hold a nature art show for artists to showcase their creations!
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Sample Water Quality
Become a Bird Watcher
One of my fondest childhood memories is helping my father gather water quality samples for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation at our neighborhood dock. The samples we collected helped the CBF monitor the health of the waterway and kicked off conversations about pollution and the importance of protecting our natural resources. Reach out to local conservation groups to see if they enlist volunteers for this purpose.
Investing in a bird guide is a surefire way to hook your little one on wildlife. From learning how to recognize birds by their color and song to watching them search for food or build a nest, birds are a delightful and engaging entry to the bounty of nature in your backyard. Up the ante with adding a birdfeeder or birdhouse (homemade or store bought) to your landscape.
Take a Hike
If visions of scaling Old Rag Mountain with a small child in tow or traversing the Appalachian Trail with the entire family come to mind when you think of hiking, fear not! Hitting the trails needn’t require loads of gear, time, or distance. Instead, hiking can be as simple as a brief stroll along a flat trail or even exploring the nearby woods. From urban paths to more challenging routes through state parks, hikes are a great way to connect with nature. Websites like alltrails.com or americanhiking.org detail all types of hikes in your neck of the woods.
Family & Couples Vacations
YMCA CAMP CONRAD WEISER The Way the World Should Be All-Inclusive Resorts Independent Travel
LOCAL TRAVEL AGENCY
Resident Camp for Boys and Girls 6-17. Traditional Camps, Riding Camps, Theme Camps, Adventure Camps, Teen Leadership Programs, & International Travel
SMYMCA.ORG or 610.670.CAMP
IT'S YOUR TIME TO
Vacation fairwindstravelagency.com 410.541.6087
@fairwindstravel
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/FairWindsTravel
MARYLAND EART H DAY G UI DE chesapeakefamily.com chesapeakefamily.com APRIL APRIL 2022 2022
Go On a Scavenger Hunt
For the younger set, a nature scavenger hunt is just the ticket to engage them with all the wonders of the outdoors on a smaller scale that’s closer to home. Provide kiddos with a picture or written list of things they’re to find in the yard or on a neighborhood walk (think leaves, sticks, pinecones, a bird feather, dandelions, etc.). As they find each item, make it a teachable moment by explaining where the item came from and its role in nature.
Read!
“Adopt” a Pet
Growing up on Weems Creek just off the Severn River, my brother and I spent many an hour watching mallard ducks in the small cove by our house. We informally “adopted” one of the male ducks by naming him (Jimmy, if you’re curious) and keeping tabs on him as he flew, interacted with other mallards, or bobbed for food. These days, my older daughter has “adopted” a pair of mourning doves who frequent our backyard. In both cases, it was and has been a joy to watch young minds learn about animals’ habits and habitats, even from a distance. (Adults, you’ve guessed it; just play along even if the “pet” isn’t actually the exact one your child “adopted” initially!)
When you can’t physically head outdoors, cultivate nature appreciation by opening a good book about animals or adventures in the wild. Fiction or nonfiction, there’s no shortage of children’s literature featuring plants, animals, weather, and ecosystems. If you’re looking for a nature “how-to” read, this writer is pleased to recommend “i love dirt!” by Jennifer Ward, which presents 52 activities to help kids connect with nature. From searching for earthworms after it rains to playing games in the wind, the activities span the seasons and provide plenty of opportunity for discovery and fun- for child and parent alike.
Plant a Tree
As simple as it may seem, planting a tree offers a tremendous opportunity to teach children that a number of species (humans included) depend on trees for shelter, food, and clean air. Check out your local nursery or conservation group to see what they might have available, or consider joining the Arbor Day Foundation; new members can receive free seedlings to plant. Just be sure that whatever tree you plant is native to the region.
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family fun
Get Back to Nature
Rent a Cabin from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club by Nancy Parode
A
dozen years ago, one of the moms from my daughter’s Girl Scout troop suggested that we rent a Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC) cabin and take the girls to a Pennsylvania section of the Appalachian Trail (AT). I had heard of the Appalachian Trail, of course, but I had no idea there were cabins for rent right on the famed path. Spending a couple of nights in a primitive cabin sounded like a fun challenge for the girls, so I called the PATC’s cabin rental coordinator and booked two nights at Milesburn Cabin, just steps away from the AT. When we arrived at the cabin, we felt cut off from the outside world—in a very good way. Rustling leaves greeted us as we carried our bags to the cabin’s covered porch. A gurgling stream ran right in front of the cabin. The girls hiked a section of the trail and greeted the backpackers they met along the way. After the hike, they built fairy houses for future renters to find and then practiced their outdoor cooking and campfirebuilding skills. The girls had a blast, and the moms did, too. Potomac Appalachian Trail Cabins—Something for Everyone The Potomac Appalachian Train Club, founded in 1927, maintains and protects the Mid-Atlantic section of the AT and its lands. Education and advocacy are part of the club’s mission, too. To encourage use of the AT, PATC rents out its 45 cabins, 26 of which are in or adjoining Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Some are primitive cabins, with no electricity, indoor plumbing, or running water. Other cabins are semiprimitive—most have electricity and are heated by wood stoves, and some have running water in the kitchen. Modern
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cabins feature electricity and indoor plumbing. More than half of the cabins are pet friendly. All PATC cabins have mattresses for renters’ use. According to Martha Reynolds, PATC’s Membership/Cabins/ Lands Coordinator, anyone age 21 or older may choose from 18 of the club’s 45 cabins. The other 27 cabins are available only to dues-paying PATC members. “Like cabin rental revenue,” Reynolds says, “membership dues support our mission to maintain and protect the trails in the Mid-Atlantic region.” Joining the club, Reynolds adds, is a great way to give back to the trails as well as gain access to more cabins, and new members are sometimes inspired to help with trail maintenance and other trail-related tasks. PATC Cabin Rental Costs While you can reserve a cabin more than 60 days in advance, it is much more expensive to do so. You’ll save money by reserving your cabin within 60 days of your arrival date. In general, rental rates vary by cabin size and type. Rates are higher on weekend nights. Small, primitive cabins start at $30 per night, while large, modern cabins that sleep up to eight people cost between $75 (weeknights) and $175 (weekends) per night. The PATC’s website includes a “Cabins” section that is packed with information about rental rates, cabin locations, cancellation policies, and COVID-19 protocols. You can reserve your cabin online, too.
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Choosing Your PATC Cabin With so many cabins to choose from, especially if you’re a PATC member, selecting a cabin to rent can be a bit overwhelming. There are several important factors to think about. Eligibility is your first consideration, as 40 percent of PATC cabins are available to the public. The cabin’s location and type (primitive, semi-primitive, or modern) are important, too. Some cabins are on unpaved roads. Others are in Shenandoah National Park, which means you’ll have to pay the park entrance fee to get to your cabin. The cabin’s hike-in distance is another significant factor. Some cabins have short driveways, which makes bringing your gear inside an easy task. Others, however, are a mile or more off the road over hilly terrain. Finally, most cabins don’t have cell phone coverage. (None have Wi-Fi.) PATC’s website includes a handy chart that links to individual cabin descriptions. For more details on all the PATC cabins, including photos and floor plans, you can order a copy of Potomac Appalachian Trail Cabins from the club. Things to Do Because most of the cabins are near the AT or other trails, hiking is the most popular activity. If you rent a cabin in or near Shenandoah National Park, you can take advantage of the programs and activities park rangers offer and enjoy the views from the park’s famous Skyline Drive. Photography, stargazing, and good old-fashioned relaxing are popular, too. PATC’s
Martha Reynolds recommends bringing playing cards or a lightweight game. “Books and games harken back to simpler times,” she says, adding, “It’s important to have an activity that doesn’t involve your mobile device!” Packing Tips for Cabin-goers Packing the right gear is a necessity. Reynolds says that most people pack more than they need, but there are some musthave items, regardless of which PATC cabin you rent. These include toilet paper, matches, garbage bags (you have to pack out everything you pack in, including trash), cleaning supplies, food, personal toiletries, and your sleeping bag and pillow. If you’re renting a primitive cabin, you’ll also need to bring a way to purify drinking water and, in most cases, a camp stove. Depending on the weather, firewood could be an essential item, too. Is Cabin Life for You? Martha Reynolds thinks so. Renting a cabin gives families a place to spread out, shelter from bad weather, and a space to gather for meals and fun. More people than ever before are heading outside with their families. “The pandemic has created a whole new audience of outdoor enthusiasts,” Reynolds says, adding, “The cabins are a great avenue for people who might be looking for an outdoor experience without the intimidation or commitment that can come with camping or backpacking for the first time.”
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SPECIAL CAMP
SECTION Anne Arundel County Recreation and Parks Annapolis 410-222-7313 aacounty.org/recparks Ages 3-12th grade Anne Arundel Recreation and Parks is THE destination for camps and programs for all ages including: Summer Day Camps, Summer Fun Centers, Art Camps, Science and Engineering Camps, Theatre Performance and Dance Camps, Sports Camps, Summer Aquatics Camps, Nature Exploration Camps, Teens on the Go, and Adaptive Day Camps for all abilities.See our ad on page 17
Bayside Summer Adventure Camp Annapolis 410-266-6132 baysidesummercamp.com 4 years – 8th grade Unique private summer camp program operated at Sandy Point State Park where kids choose how they spend their time at camp. Sports, Art, Nature, Science, Crabbing/Fishing, Paddle Boarding/Canoeing and swimming are just a few of the activities to choose from. 10 one week options with extended hours and transportation available from 7 locations.
Bright Beginning Children’s Learning Center Crownsville (license# 130684) 410-923-3192 Glen Burnie (license#160256) 410-768-4526 bright-beginning.com, 2–5 years Each themed week offers indoor and outdoor activities. Utilizing the large playground,
S
ummer Camps are starting to fill up so sign up your camper today! We’ve rounded up some great summer camp programs specializing in academics, film, nature, music, plus day and overnight options guaranteed to keep your kids happy and active this summer. Those with descriptions are advertisers. Find more camp information including pricing, location, and dates at ChesapeakeFamily.com/campdirectory.
community and special visitors, these activities help young children discover science and explore nature and introduce preschoolers to new activities and skills. We offer full and part time care. See our ad on page 29
Camp Wabanna Edgewater 410-798-0455 campwabanna.org 4 years-16 years Camp Wabanna is a day and overnight camp for ages 4-16 located on a 23 acre peninsula at the convergence of the Chesapeake Bay and Rhode River. We offer adventure based programming like sailing, kayaking, crabbing and fishing, banana boating and tubing, rock climbing, zip-lining, giant swing, and team building. All geared to grow the campers in basic life skills in a faith filled environment.See our ad on page 10
FAME - Foundation for the Advancement of Music & Education Summer Program College Park, Upper Marlboro 301-805-5358 famemusic.org 12 years – 12th grade Our unique and fun-filled summer program is designed for students wanting to improve their musicianship, seeking music careers, and those with an interest in music composition, recording, production or singing. This program offers music technology, instrumental intensive, and vocal workshops designed to immerse students in vocal technique, cutting-edge software, and the intricacies of music composition and production. See our ad on page 25
Filmsters Academy Annapolis 410-263-3023 filmstersacademy.com 11 years-18 years Filmsters Academy includes learning the creative process of filmmaking with a "handson" approach. This experiential mentoring, led by our young instructors who are in film schools or in the industry, makes for an especially memorable time. Special industry guest instructors provide a bit of movie magic for our young filmmakers. See our ad on page 8
Grannie Annie’s Summer Program Pasadena 410-255-0478 granniecare.com Cozy Care, Quality Education. We have been providing child care for Pasadena’s families for over 17 years. MSDE approved curriculum for 3s and Pre-K. Before and After care, Pre-K through 5th, servicing Riviera Beach, Sunset and Solley. Also offers full-day, all-summer camp. License #122871. See our ad on page 29
Holy Trinity Hawks Summer Camp Glenn Dale 301-464-3215 htrinity.org/summer-camp PreK 4- 9th grade Come be a part of the excitement! Celebrate the summer with thematic and specialty camps. Before and after care is available for all campers. Register online! See our ad on page 25
Visit us online for even more details on each camp at ChesapeakeFamily.com/findcamps
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special section | camp Summer at KEY Annapolis, 443-321-2575 keyschool.org/community/ summer-at-key 3.5 years – 12th grade With a variety of fun and enriching in-person camp programs planned, Summer at KEY has something for everyone in 2022. From themed traditional camps for the youngest campers to specialty STEM, cooking, art, and athletic camps, we are committed to creating a memorable summer experience for all of our campers. See our ad on page 2
Summer at Severn School Arnold, Severna Park 410-647-7700 severnschool.com/programs/summer-programs 3.5 years – 12th grade Summer at Severn provides a safe and stimulating environment for students as young as age 3.5 through those entering 12th grade. Our weeklong sessions are made up of fun and educational activities centered on different weekly themes. See our ad on page 6
St. Margaret’s Day School Summer Camp Annapolis, 410-757-2333 stmargaretsdayschool.org 2 years–10 years Before & after care Join us from June to August at our fun-filled day camp! Every two weeks we will have a new exciting camp theme with crafts, projects, games, science explorations, and more. Register here: stmargaretsdayschool.org See our ad on page 25
South Mountain YMCA at Camp Conrad Weiser Reinholds, Pa. 610-670-2267 smymca.org/summer-camps/camp-conradweiser-overnight-camp, 5 years-8th grade We believe that today’s campers are tomorrow’s leaders. Our progressive, campercentered programs are designed to challenge every child in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Our campers make friends, learn new skills, build self-confidence, and gain a sense of independence in our camp community. See our ad on page 20 For a complete list of day and overnight camps please visit us oneline at ChesapeakeFamily. com/SummerCamps.
Holy Trinity Hawks Summer Camp 2022
11902 Daisy Lane Glenn Dale, MD 301-464-3215 www.htrinity.org
Celebrate the summer with thematic and specialty camps. Before & after care available for all campers. Register online! Ages 4 years-9th grade.
Field Trips • Cooking • Lego Robotics Basketball • Water Days • Science Arts & Crafts • Stop Motion
St. Margaret’s Day School • MAEOE Green Certified School • STEM Program • Weekly Programs
• Financial Aid • Before & After Care •
• A Nut-Free School • MD EXCELS rated Level 5
• Summer Camps
Visit our website to register for Summer Camp 2022! 1605 Pleasant Plains Rd. • Annapolis, MD 410.757.2333 • www.StMargaretsDaySchool.org
Our students are accepted without regard to sex, race, religion or national background.
SUMMER
MUSIC PROGRAM Workshops include Vocal, Technology, and Instrumental Register Now 4 week long sessions starting July 11th Grades (7th-12th)
Cost ($300 by May 1st)
UMD - College Park & Wise High School 301.805.5358 info@FAMEmusic.org
FAMEmusic.org
Visit us online for even more details on each camp at ChesapeakeFamily.com/findcamps APRIL 2022
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calendar | april
go out
TONS OF FUN THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH
Fri 1 - Sun 3
ANNAPOLIS FILM FESTIVAL
Showcasing more than 70 films annually with independent films, panels and special showcases that inspire, enlighten and entertain diverse audiences on a variety of topics, the festival ensures the $10.00 - $350.00. 4-10 p.m. Downtown Annapolis, Annapolis. annapolisfilmfestival.com.
Fri 1
ANNMARIE AFTER HOURS OPENING RECEPTION
Join us for an outdoor opening of our most magicalicious exhib it. All the houses will be displayed around the outside of the Arts Buil ding. 5-7 p.m. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center, Solomons. choosecalvert.com. COLUMBIA JAZZ BAND: A SALUTE TO THE DUKE
Rescheduled from May 2020! Join us as we pay tribute to one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time. $20.00. 7:30-9 p.m. Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, Columbia. columbiaorchestra.org. FIRST FRIDAY CAMP FIRE
Enjoy nature tales and roasted marshmallows over a community campfire! Bring hot dogs, if you like! Start new friendships and make family memories! $4.00 - $6.00. 7-8:30 p.m. Watkins Nature Center, Upper Marlboro. pgparks.com.
Fri 1, Sun 10 HERP HUNT
Spring is such an exciting time of year, with plants and animals all waking up from their winter slumber. And it’s one of the best times to go looking for herps (reptiles and amphibians). $7.00. 1-2:30 p.m. Bethesda. montgomeryparks.org.
Starting Fri 1 MOTHER GOOSE
Virtual Murder Mystery SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2022 AT 8PM
Join Jump into Mystery on Saturday, April 9 at 8pm for an Art Heist Themed Murder Mystery! This is an interactive virtual murder mystery event where you will play a character, solve clues, and interrogate all of the suspects. In the end you will decide who committed the crime using your detective skills. Everyone that purchases a ticket will get a character role ahead of time. This event will last approximately 2.5 hours and everyone purchasing a ticket will need access to Zoom to play. Each person attending will need a separate ticket. Grab tickets here: jumpintomystery.com/shop/ols/products/virtual
Fri 1, Sat 2,, Sun 3, Tue 5, Wed 6, Thu 7, Fri 8, Sat 9, Sun 10. A brand new, music-filled piece by the creators of Wake Up, Brother Bear and Mouse on the Move! $28.00. 10:30 a.m. Imagination Stage, Bethesda. imaginationstage.org.
Starting Fri 1 TREASURE ISLAND
Fri 1, Sat 2, Sun 3, Fri 8, Sat 9, Sun 10, Fri 15, Sat 16, Sun 17, Fri 22, Sat 23. A swashbuckling adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s most beloved novel, this new production is a tale of buccaneers, buried gold, treasure maps,
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calendar | april pirates, and the famous “Long John Silver.” Join $55.00 - $68.00. 8 p.m. Classic Theatre of Maryland’s Main Stage, Annapolis.
Starting Sat 2
MARYLAND OSPREY NATURE FESTIVAL
Please join us at the Drum Point Club, where the trees and th e shoreline meet. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Drum Point Club, Lusby. choosecalvert.com
BEGINNING BIRDING FOR EVERY BODY
MLK PARADE AND AFRICAN
Sat 2, Sun 3, Sat 23, Sun 24. Join a Brookside naturalist and learn the basics of birding on our frustration-free âflatâ bird practice trail. Our wildlife pond boardwalk is accessible for all budding birders. $6.00. 10-11 a.m. Bethesda. montgomeryparks.org
Parade starts at noon, followed by performances, vendors and entertainment at Annapolis City Dock Free. 12-5 p.m. Downtown Annapolis, Annapolis. MLKparade@gmail.com
Sat 2 - Sun 3
EASTERN SHORE SEA GLASS & COASTAL ARTS FESTIVAL Saturday, April 2, 10am–5pm &
Sunday, April 3, 10am–4pm (RAIN OR SHINE) All tickets include admission on both days. 10 a.m.4 p.m. CBMM, Saint Michaels. cbmm.org
Sat 2
MARYLAND CHICKEN WING FESTIVAL
11am – 7pm Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, 1450 General’s Highway, Crownsville, MD. ABC Events is excited to bring you the 8th annual Maryland Chicken Wing Festival. 2 p.m. Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds, Crownsville. bandsintown.com.
DIASPORA FESTIVAL
PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE
Come join Peppa on an exciting camping trip in the woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. $25.25 - $55.25. 2-3:30 p.m. The Lyric, Baltimore. lyricbaltimore.com
Starting Thurs 7
Sat 9
DISCOVERING ARCHAEOLOGY DAY
Have you ever wondered about the work of archaeologists? Come to this free event and meet archaeologists from all over the state to learn about what they have learned about Maryland’s past! 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum (JPPM), Saint Leonard. choosecalvert.com. DISCOVERY STAGE SERIES- VAL SMALKIN: SILLY GOOSE AND VAL
Val Smalkin presents a fast-paced, humorous 40-minute musical show with puppets, ventriloquism, dancing, singing, and 100% audience participation. $0.00 - $19.95. 1111:40 a.m. Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore. rd.eventroar.com
CREEK CRITTERS
FIRST LANDING WINE & ARTS FESTIVAL AT
Thu 7, Thu 14, Thu 21, Thu 28 . Year-round observations of the wildlife in the creek and surrounding woodlands outside of Chesapeake Children’s Museum. All ages are welcome. Ideal for preschoolers. $5.00. 10:30-11 a.m. The Chesapeake Children’s Museum, Annapolis. theccm.org.
Join us for the Annual First Landing Wine and Arts Festival. Enjoy the food and wine, browse the artisans’ and crafters’ tables, and experience the kid’s activities. St. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 38370 Point Breeze Road, Lexington Park. visitstmarysmd.com.
ST. CLEMENT’S ISLAND MUSEUM
GREENBUILDERS, INC. THINKING ABOUT A NEW KITCHEN, BATH, OR NEW CONSTRUCTION?
Green DO IT
Call us to find out how.
410-472-7072 greenbuilders.com
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calendar | april
Sat 9
EASTER EVENTS Sat 9
ADULT EASTER EGG HUNT AT NIGHT
One thousand eggs are filled with “eggcellent prizes” including golden eggs! Bring a basket and a flashlight. $15.00 - $20.00. 8-10 p.m. Pip Moyer Recreation Center, Annapolis. secure.rec1.com. CHESAPEAKE BEACH EGGSTRAVAGANZA
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Chesapeake Beach. chesapeakebeachmd.gov.
Farm Park, Millersville. kinderfarmpark.org. EASTER EGG HUNT
In this familyfriendly activity, participants will join a tour of the house and learn how animals symbolize different things in paintings, chairs, and everyday objects. 10-11:30 a.m. Hammond Harwood House, Annapolis. fourriversheritage.org.
Sat 9 - Mon 18
EGG-CELLENT
FARM- EGG HUNT DAYS
Easter Egg Hunt Y-KNOT Inc, Tammy’s Angels Inc, ARE Creations, Jamaur Law Foundation, and Triple J’s Café is hosting a community Easter Egg Hunt event on April 9, 2022 between 11:00 am to 3:00pm at the Patuxent $0.00 - $2.00. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Patuxent River Park Pavilion and Camp Ground, Upper Marlboro
CLARK’S ELIOAK
Children of different ages (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs all day. $8.00 - $25.00. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.Clark’s Elioak Farm, Ellicott City. clarklandfarm.com. EASTER EGG FESTIVAL
The Annual Easter Egg Festival is held each year the Saturday before Easter weekend at the St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds. $5.00. 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. St. Mary’s County Fairground, Leonardtown. stmarysmd.com. EASTER EGG HUNT
Come and enjoy our annual Easter Egg Hunt, meet the Easter Bunny and enjoy the company of some of your favorite Farm animals.Egg Hunt start times: 10:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 11:30 AMHunt areas are $7.00. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Kinder
ADVENTURES Community
Fri 15 - Sun 17
BUNNY BONANZOO
It’s one of the most eggciting events of the year! Join us this Easter weekend for Bunny BonanZOO, April 15-17. $20.00 - $24.00. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Baltimore. marylandzoo.org.
Fri 15
NATURE CRAFT - NATURAL
FROZEN ON ICE
begins at 10:00am (promptly) 18 months-4th grade Buddy Attick Park (Greenbelt Lake) FREE Come out and celebrate Spring at an eggciting event! 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Buddy Attick Lake Park, Greenbelt. greenbeltmd.gov.
Sat 16
FOSSIL EGG HUNT
Participate in our annual fossil egg hunt! Look for eggs with real fossils inside, hidden around the museum. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.
Sun 17
EASTER DAY ORGAN RECITAL
Cathedral organists Thomas Sheehan and George Fergus present a selection of uplifting music on the Cathedral’s Great Organ. This concert is free. Free. 2 p.m. Washington National Cathedral, Washington. cathedral.org.
Mon 18
EASTER AT THE ZOO
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is celebrating Easter Monday on April 18! Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington. Nationalzoo. si.edu.
The Gardens Figure Skating Club presents its annual spring ice show, Frozen on Ice with 2 shows: Saturday, April 9 at 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. $23.00 - $33.00. 1 p.m. The Gardens Ice House, Laurel. gardensfsc.org NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL
Mojo Mothership brings their Funky Southern Fried Rock ‘N’ Roll Rhythm & Blues machine to the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Tidal Basin Performance Stage. 5 p.m. Tidal Basin Welcome Area and Ana Performance Stage, Washington. bandsintown.com. THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE®
10 a.m.-12 p.m. Washington. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
Sat 9 - Sun 10
NSO MUSIC FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES: SUPER CELLO! (WORLD PREMIERE)
Music to the rescue! The city is safe with the help of a unique cellist: professional musician by day, superhero by night. $20.00. 11 a.m. Kennedy Center, Washington. kennedy-center.org
Starting Sat 9
SCAVENGER HIKE: PUZZLES, MAPS AND CLUES
Sat 9, Sun 10, Sat 30. How well do you know Wheaton Regional Park? Step away from your busy schedule and come explore the outdoors. $5.00. 2-4 p.m. Bethesda. montgomeryparks.org SPRING BREAK AT PORT DISCOVERY
Sat 9 - Sat 16. Spend Spring Break with your family at Port Discovery with special, family-friendly performances, guest artists and activities! Help Eric Energy conduct experiments. $0.00 - $19.95. Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore
Thu 14
FAMILY FISHING FUN!
Ages 6 and older. pgparks.com/calendar. aspx?EID=18280 1-2 p.m. Hyattsville. pgparks.com.
Fishing is fun for the whole family and for all abilities! We’ll show you how to set up a simple bobber rig, bait your hook, and give you some tips on casting. $12.00. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Bethesda. montgomeryparks.org
Sat 16
Fri 15
EGG DYEING
ANNUAL EGG HUNT
Saturday, April 16,
CHESAPEAKE PLANTS AND POLLINATORS
Take a tour of our upland marsh and rain garden to discover what plants grow
Go to ChesapeakeFamily.com/Calendar for more events!
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calendar | april best in these environments. Explore our Children’s Maritim e Garden and discover the treasures each garden holds. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com
Sat 16
B.I.G BOOK SALE
Buy books, games and CDs at reasonable prices. Children’s books $1. Free. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. B.I.G Warehouse, Annapolis. big-books.org DISCOVERY STAGE SERIES- HAPPENSTANCE THEATER: PINOT AND AUGUSTINE
A sure-fire 45-minute, bilingual, crowd-pleaser, PINOT & AUGUSTINE is a classic, familyfriendly clown duo inspired by the golden age of Circus. $0.00 - $19.95. 11-11:45 a.m. Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore. NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PETALPALOOZA®
This day-long all-ages celebration brings art, music, and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations, a beer garden, family-friendly hands-on activities, and more, all along Free. 1-9 p.m. Capitol Riverfront, Washington. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
Sat 23
BEER & BERRIES
We can’t wait for the Strawberry Festival to get outdoors and celebrate! Beer & Berries features Maryland craft beer, ax throwing, hayrides, outdoor games, food trucks, music, and more! 4-8:30 p.m. Sandy Spring Museum, Sandy Spring. sandyspringmuseum.org EARTH DAY
Come out and celebrate Earth Day at Sandy Point State Park! You will be among hundreds of people state-wide who volunteer their time to benefit Maryland’s State Parks. Meet in the East Beach Area. $3.00. 1-3 p.m. Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis. dnr.maryland.gov. GREENFEST
GreenFest is the premier environmental festival in Montgomery County, MD. Free. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Brookside Gardens, Wheaton. montgomerycountygreenfest.org
Sun 24, Sat 30 CELEBRATE LA PLATA
Free Family Fun! Live Music by Taboo. Craft & Business Vendors, Moon bounce, Kids Art Activities, Air brush tattoos, Bed race. Free. 12-4 p.m. Town of La Plata, La Plata. townoflaplata.org.
Sun 24
Find the Perfect Playground!
EARTH DAY-THEMED GUIDED FAMILY HIKE
Guided hike designed for families with children. Earth Day activities. Pack a picnic and stay all day! http://choosecalvert.com/calend ar.aspx?EID=9053 10 a.m.-12 p.m. American Chestnut Land Trust, Prince Frederick. choosecalvert.com FAIRY & GNOME HOME FESTIVAL
ADVANCE TICKETS REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION & UNICORN RIDES Free. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Art Center, Dowell. annmariegarden.org
Sat 30
CLARK’S ELIOAK FARM SPECIAL ROCKING SATURDAYS
April 30, May 7, 14 and 21, 11 AM to 2 PM Bach to Rock in Fulton, MD provides music lessons for students of all ages and skill levels with a special emphasis on live $8.00 - $25.00. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Clark’s Elioak Farm, Ellicott City. clarklandfarm.com.
CHESAPEAKEFAMILY.COM/PLAYGROUNDS
Providing care for infants through school-age since 2003 Call to Schedule Your Visit!
MARYLAND DAY 2022
The University of Maryland invites you to unlock a world of learning, discovery and exploration at Maryland Day. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. University of Maryland, College Park. facebook.com. MAYDALE NATURE CLASSROOM: NATIVE PLANT SALE
Growing native plants encourages beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife in your community. Support your back-yard ecosystem with this fundraising event benefiting Maydale Nature Classroom. $7.00. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bethesda. montgomeryparks.org
Now Enrolling! 2 Carvel Court Pasadena • 410-255-0478
NSO FAMILY: “GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE DINOSAURS”
Once upon a time, there were three hungry Dinosaurs: Papa Dinosaur, Mama Dinosaur… and a dinosaur who happened to be visiting from Norway! $35.00. 2 p.m. Kennedy Center, Washington. WALK FOR THE WOODS 2022
Scenic Rivers Land Trust’s “Walk for the Woods” is back in 2022! Free. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Bacon Ridge Natural Area, Farm Road, Crownsville, MD, Crownsville. srlt.org For a full updated calendar of events visit us at ChesapeakeFamily.com/calendar.
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DATE NI G HT & MORE
stay inspired Say Cheese! Four Spots to get Your Cheese and Charcuterie Fix
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By Katie Riley
f there’s one food trend that took off during the pandemic, it was cheese and charcuterie boards. Cheese and crackers are nothing new when it comes to nibbles, but suddenly our social media accounts were flooded with photos of pepperoni roses, Marcona almonds, and beautiful displays of brie, bleu, and gouda. The visual appeal of a beautiful cheese board is undeniable, yet it satisfies our desire to graze and indulge in one of life’s great culinary pleasures. “Cheese and charcuterie boards embody all the hospitality of breaking bread around the table and enjoying something as a group,” says Megan Vaughan, founder and proprietor of Vaughan Cheese, a café and artisan cheese shop in North Beach. “If you can take that with a product as humble and delicious as cheese, it’s just fantastic.” There are plenty of spots in our region to indulge in a beautiful board that is perfect for sharing with friends. Whether your favorite is a stinky bleu cheese or a sharp cheddar, we’ve narrowed down the best options for satisfying your cheese and charcuterie fix.
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Vaughan Cheese If there are experts on cheese in the Chesapeake Bay area, it’s Megan and Tyler Vaughan, owners and founders of Vaughan Cheese, a cheese shop, café, and counter in North Beach that opened in the fall of 2021. Professionally trained at the Culinary Institute of America, the Vaughans share a passion for American artisan cheeses, and honed their expertise through years of experience at some of New York City’s best restaurants, including Eleven Madison Park, one of the world’s
best restaurants. When the Vaughans moved home to Maryland in 2018, they founded their business devoted to procuring and selling artisan cheeses. The Vaughan’s personal relationship with dozens of American dairy farmers allows them to serve only the best and freshest gourmet cheeses that would excite any connoisseur. In addition to providing cheese to some of DC’s top restaurants, Vaughan Cheese has a dine-in counter where guests can order an endless variety of cheese and charcuterie boards, curated from the
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are beautifully presented with dried fruit, fig jam, mustard, and nuts, and are best accompanied with Grapes’ house made crusty baguettes, the closest you’ll find to France on this side of the Atlantic. In addition to the cheese and charcuterie selection, Grapes offers a full menu of entrees and daily specials. 1410 Forest Drive, Suite 6 grapeswinebarannapolis.com more than 85 cheeses they sell in the shop. Indulge in a board focused on DMV area dairy farms or ask the cheese monger to create a bespoke board based on the freshest wheels in the shop. “Our most popular cheese is whatever the cheese monger has identified as the most perfect, in-season cheese that day,” Vaughan says. Vaughan Cheese also specializes in private parties, home delivery, cheese tasting classes, and special events. 4116 7th Street, North Beach vaughancheese.com Annapolis Market House In the heart of Annapolis, there’s no better spot to get your cheese fix than at the Annapolis Market House. “Our cheese and charcuterie boards are our most popular item,” says chef and Market house co-owner Michele Bouchard. The boards feature imported meats and cheeses with accompaniments like candied nuts, honey, fig jam, olives, and tapenade. Each pairing includes a hard and soft cheese, and charcuterie served with house made crostini. The pairings
ensure that diners can snack on something sweet, salty, and crunchy, exciting the palate with every bite. “We rotate what cheeses we offer because we have so many regulars that come in for them,” Bouchard says, noting that the boards are also available for carry out and in larger sizes for parties. With live music offered on Thursday “locals” night, Market House is the perfect spot to unwind and share a board with friends. 25 Market Space, City Dock annapolismarkethouse.com Grapes Wine Bar Established almost twenty years ago adjacent to Annapolis Wine Cellars, Grapes Wine Bar and restaurant has a curated selection of top shelf wines, French-inspired cuisine and an ever-evolving cheese and charcuterie selection. Diners can choose from several kinds of soft and hard cheeses, including Laura Chenel Chevre, a fresh goat’s cheese, or Fourme d Ambert, a bleu cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk, to name a few. The cheese and charcuterie boards
Curate Newcomer Curate Coffee and Wine Bar on West Street offers a mouthwatering array of pastries and small plates throughout the day and on weekends, they stay open late for wine nights, providing a relaxed and lively environment for one of their customized cheese or charcuterie boards. Featuring an array of artisan cheeses, the boards include nut crisps, cranberry compote, and fresh honeycomb. No board is complete without Curate’s house made crackers or fresh focaccia, which showcase the talents of the in-house pastry chef. Seasonal cheese offerings like fallinspired goat cheese with prosciutto are rotated throughout the year, while a variety of soft and hard cheeses and artisan charcuterie combinations are a mainstay of the café’s small plates menu. Curate’s intimate atmosphere, distinctive wine pairings and fresh, elevated ingredients make for a great spot to indulge in a beautiful board with friends. 141 West Street, Suite 102 curateannapolis.com
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