Chesapeake Family August 2023

Summer Lovin!

Hazy, hot, and humid. That’s pretty much the description of all Maryland summers, and I love it. Early morning walks, checking for ripe tomatoes, and explorations on or near the water that’s part of summer that I look forward to.

We hope you enjoy the summer too. There’s still time before school starts. In this issue of Chesapeake Family Life, we focus on a day trip to Ocean City should you squeeze in a quick trip. There’s also an article on an escape to Calvert County with tips for fossil hunting, learning about maritime traditions, and enjoying art at Annmarie Sculpture Garden.

Compare Schools with our online Directory!

Start your search to find the perfect school for your kids atchesapeakefamily.com/ main-directory

And mostly, have fun with your family whatever you do, and don’t worry if things don’t turn out exactly as you had planned. Last weekend my granddaughters were at my house preparing to be flower girls at a wedding. Their hair had been braided, and they were waiting to put on their fancy dresses. I thought it would be a perfect time to take a nice photo. You can see what happened.

Donna Jefferson, Publisher DJ@jecoannapolis.com

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new & notable

Ticket Info

With tickets ranging from $21.99 to $99.99, the festival promises to deliver an unforgettable experience and a unique contribution to the local economy. So, mark your calendars, book your flights and accommodations, and brace yourselves for a brine of a time on September 23rd and 24th! For more information, please visit bigdill.com!

What's the Dill?

The Big Dill World's Largest Pickle Party®

ATwo-Day Economic Powerhouse, Tourist Magnet, and Culinary Experience for Baltimore.

It's time to get your brine on, Baltimore! This September 23rd and 24th, the Big Dill World's Largest Pickle Party®, the prime pickle-themed event, is set to sizzle at Power Plant Live! This annual festivity attracts pickle enthusiasts from all over the country, placing Baltimore, MD, as a significant player in this year's hottest food trend.

With over 50 vendors in attendance, a third being local businesses from Maryland, the festival offers various food options. Local favorites like CrossRoads Bistro, Franks, Pizza and Pasta, Underground Pizza, and Queen City Creamery will serve everything from pickle egg rolls and pickle pizzas to the unique treat of pickle ice cream.

Families can enjoy live entertainment, music, carnival games, climbing walls, bull riding, and ax throwing. Notable

local mascots, including POE The Ravens Mascot and The Orioles Bird, will add charm and local flavor, making it a true Baltimorean event.

Matt Desroches, a devoted pickle partygoer, shared his excitement about the event, saying, "Four of us drove down last year, 12 hours. We had so much fun we bought VIP for Saturday again this year." Such testimonials speak to the incredible experience and lasting memories that The Big Dill World's Largest Pickle Party® creates for its attendees.

Plus, the World Pickle Eating Championship® and the fan-favorite Brine Chug Challenge are set to provide a unique spectacle that's both thrilling and captivating. The festival has become a buzzworthy destination for sizable groups seeking unique ways to celebrate and explore the city, hosting various occasions such as engagements, bachelorette parties, family reunions, and friend adventures.

Empowering Change Severna Park High School Students Lead the 21st Annual Earth Day Festival

This spring, Severna Park High School Leadership Institute students, led by seniors Maggie Mullervy and Cooper Powell, worked alongside the Good Neighbors Group to promote, organize and assist with running the 21st Annual Severna Park Earth Day Festival.

Each year, the Leadership Institute fosters various senior-led community service projects working to benefit a specific cause or organization. Mullervy and Powell, who assisted with the Earth Day Festival project last year, chose to take charge of it this year. Not only did they choose the project itself for their previous experience with it, but also due to their shared love of nature and passion for making positive community changes to better the Earth.

The students’ project supported the Good Neighbors Group, a local non-profit dedicated to supporting charitable causes and

preserving the environment. Good Neighbors Group works every year to host the festival in Severna Park.

Powell and Mullervy and 16 junior Leadership students recruited 36 volunteers to assist with the festival itself. The team also created 12 social media posts to promote the festival and share sustainable tips, earth facts, and nature pictures. As a group, they created a booth to contribute to the event, which included a school-supply collection for underprivileged schools in Kenya and take-home coloring sheets. On the event day, at the Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company, Powell and Mullervy directed volunteers to assist with set up, parking, donation drop-off, clean up, and assisting the vendors with anything they needed.

Tucked Away in Tuckahoe Destination Spotlight

Tuckahoe State Park is a calm, natural, and beautiful environment with adventure around every corner. With 20 miles of hiking trails and a 63-acre lake for all kinds of water-based recreation, there is no shortage of good times to be had at Tuckahoe.

History

Packed with history from railroads, steamships, and towns now abandoned, one who may go for a day hike can leave knowing the area's rich history. A gristmill was once established on the creek, and a town was built around the mill. The Stream Valley was also a notable route on the Underground Railroad. The town around the mill has since been abandoned and reclaimed by the surrounding nature.

The area became a state park when the State of Maryland began purchasing property in the area in the 1960s. The State planned to dam the creek and create a 300-acre lake that would provide numerous recreational activities and opportunities for the people in the area and create a draw to the park itself. But a National Champion Overcup Oak Tree was discovered in the area that would have been the lake bed, so the

plan was reworked to create the 63-acre lake that you can canoe and fish on today.

Trails

There are many different trails to hike on any given day, and you could hike over 20 miles. Hiking in the summer is made easier by a pine tree canopy that can sometimes make you feel like you are walking in a rainforest.

Campground

With plenty of tables, no matter how big your party may be, and enough grills for everyone to have a good End of Summer barbeque, the campground is a perfect gettogether destination. Bathrooms are only a short walk away, creating a much-appreciated convenience. Close by, there is a playground made almost entirely of recycled tires. If you feel up to it, you can bring the tackle box and catch some mighty fine Carp and Perch. And if you need a little getaway, there are cabins that are available for rent.

Tuckahoe is truly a one-of-akind sanctuary tucked away on the Eastern Shore, with nature that can be reminiscent of our country's finest National Parks and limitless recreational activities.

— Max Chalkley

QUICK LOOK AT TUCKAHOE STATE PARK

13070 Crouse Mill Road, Queen Anne, MD 21657 dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/eastern/tuckahoe.aspx

ADMISSION Free

HOURS Open daily from sunrise to sunset.

PARKING free

RESTROOM proper restroom facility

PETS Dogs are welcome on a leash.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAX CHALKLEY

Determination and Hard Work Workshop for Treatment of Anxiety Disorders

Contemporary Integrative Treatment of Anxiety Disorders will be presented by Dr. Sally Winston as part of the Chesapeake Life Center’s 18th annual Emily Schindler Memorial Lecture. The lecture will be held from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22, at Bowie State University, Bowie, Maryland.

Treatment of Anxiety Workshop

In this workshop, Winston will discuss how to distinguish the different presentations of anxiety disorders so treatment can be tailored to the individual. Winston also will introduce a new conceptualization of generalized anxiety disorder as a close relative of obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD. Participants will be able to offer clients psychoeducational information to instill hope, insight, and motivation as well as to reduce anxious bewilderment.

This annual lecture was created in 2005 through a gift to the Schindler family from the Saint Agnes Cancer Center. Emily Schindler was an 18-year-old freshman at Frostburg State University and a member of the SPY swim team in Severna Park, Maryland, when she was tragically killed in a car accident in 2004. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and a light breakfast will be provided. Maryland Board social workers can earn three Category 1 continuing education credits. Pre-registration is required and can be completed at https://education.hospicechesapeake.org/ item/2023-schindler. The cost is $40. For details, call 888-5017077 or email griefinfo@hospicechesapeake.org.

Seafood Festival Returns to its Roots Annapolis City Dock and Susan Campbell Park to Host Once Again

After 30 years the Maryland Seafood Festival, August 1920, 2023, will once again grace the picturesque setting of Annapolis City Dock and Susan Campbell Park, much to the delight of locals and visitors alike.

Annapolis Mayor, Gavin Buckley, expressed his excitement about the festival's homecoming, stating, "I am thrilled to see the Maryland Seafood Festival come back to City Dock where it began as the Annapolis Clam Festival over 50 years ago." This marks a significant milestone for the event, celebrating a proud tradition of 55 years, during which it has become an iconic showcase of delectable seafood, live music, arts and crafts, chef demonstrations, and the renowned crab soup cook-off, attracting thousands of festival attendees year after year

The decision to relocate the festival from Sandy Point State Park to Annapolis City Dock and Susan Campbell Park opens up new opportunities for collaboration with the City of Annapolis.

A centerpiece of the festival for the past three decades, the Crab Soup Cook-off, promises to be back in full force, offering over 20 different soups for attendees to savor and enjoy. The cook-off, judged by local celebrities and featuring a people's choice contest, has been a beloved tradition that embodies the essence of Maryland's seafood heritage.

The Beer and Oyster tent, another crowd-favorite, will offer a delightful assortment of oysters sourced from local fisheries. Additionally, festival-goers can look forward to Chef demonstrations, where culinary experts will share their expertise in crafting scrumptious dishes, including best practices for handling invasive species.

As part of its commitment to the community, the Maryland Seafood Festival will allocate a portion of its proceeds to benefit local charities, making it not only a celebration of food and culture but also an occasion to give back and support meaningful causes.

With its family-friendly atmosphere, the Maryland Seafood Festival caters to all age groups, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy. Admission tickets are priced at $15 per person in advance and $20 at the gate, while children aged 12 and under can enter for free. For those arriving by car, parking will be available at the Naval Academy stadium for $10, with a convenient free shuttle service to the festival grounds.

For more information on the Maryland Seafood Festival visit the official website at mdseafoodfestival.com.

As the Maryland Seafood Festival returns to its cherished birthplace, locals and visitors can anticipate a delightful weekend filled with delicious seafood, cultural experiences, and moments of community bonding – all against the stunning backdrop of Annapolis City Dock and Susan Campbell Park.

Anchored in Style

DIY Nautical Coatrack in Severna Park

Built in the 1960s, our Colonial-style home’s miniature coat closet was not cutting it for our family of five. Read on to see how my husband’s DIY project for a nautical coat rack saved the day.

The Backstory

If I had to give a Yelp review for buying a home during the pandemic, I would give it a one out of five stars. Do. Not. Recommend.

With low inventory, plus sky rocketing list prices and even higher sale prices, it was a “Hunger Games” era of real estate. In 2020, my family thankfully landed our dream home in the highly coveted Chartwell community in Severna Park, Maryland, where I grew up. The town boasts great schools,

parks, pools and water access.

Somehow we lucked out with a rare five-bedroom home. Our three daughters are truly the lucky ones, not having to share a room.

While a pretty open floorplan for a single family home built in 1968, there was one surprising drawback. The coat closet was a mere 20” in width. Where did the previous owners’ put their jackets for the wide-ranging weather Marylanders face? Our girls are ages five, two and four months. Between their rain coats, jean jackets, winter coats or fleece onesies, there would be no room left for two sets of adult outerwear.

The Project

If Maryland does “crabcakes and football,” nautical décor should be a

close third on that list. The previous owner installed a four-pronged coat rack on the wall of the garage. After two years of our coats constantly falling off the small pegs, we decided to upgrade with a longer, sleeker — and yes nautical — coat rack.

One set of doors in our home offered inspiration. The boat hook handles would not only execute our theme but be highly functional when holding various outerwear. A serendipitous moment of form meeting function.

Project Details

After searching online, my husband found a wall mounted coat rack that we loved. The only issue? It cost $130. It was an easy decision to replicate it ourselves.

Materials featured in this DIY project include:

• Boat Cleats

• Blue Paint

• Poplar Boards

• Minwax Polyurethane

• Varathane Wood Stain

• Varathane Wood Conditioner

• Kreg Pocket-Hole Screws

• Wood Glue

Tools used:

• Power Drill

• Miter Saw

• Kreg Pocket-Hole Jig

• Clamp

• Tape Measurer

After getting all materials and tools together, it was time to get to work.

• The first step was to cut the poplar boards to our desired size. We chose two sizes for the boards: 2 1/2”x 3/4” for our middle board with the blue paint1 1/2” x 3/4” for the top and bottom rails

• Then, we cut the poplar boards down to 3’ wide to maximize the space we had along the garage wall. Next, we quickly sanded down any imperfections in the boards. This shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

For the 1 1/2” size boards, we applied wood conditioner, which helps the wood take the stain more evenly for a better finish. Without wood conditioner some woods appear splotchy after receiving the stain. Shortly after the wood conditioner was complete, we applied the wood stain.

• For the larger 2 1/2” piece, we painted the board blue to help break up and brighten the piece. We already conveniently had the blue paint from other home projects. For a small job like this, consider buying one to two small paint samples from Home Depot. They’re only $5 a piece, and one sample is more than enough to do multiple coats on a piece and project of this size. We even did two layers of coat racks, but more on that later. To note, we stained and painted the boards prior to assembling to guarantee nice, crisp lines.

• Afterwards, we were ready to assemble the boards. We flipped the center board over and used the Kreg pocket hole jig to screw pocket holes on both sides of the board to help attach the smaller top and bottom rails.

• We applied a thin bead of wood glue to the edge of the boards and clamped them together. While clamped, we used the Kreg 1 1/4” pocket hole screws to help hold the pieces together.

• After the wood boards were assembled, we took a Minwax polyurethane to seal the piece. The polyurethane helped give the piece additional durability against scratches.

• Once the polyurethane dried, it was time to install the boat cleats. We laid out the boat cleats for the number and spacing we felt worked best for us. We ordered a 16 pack of Simplified Living 4” Dock Cleats on

Amazon and ended up using only 11 cleats. The ones we chose were galvanized iron, rust resistant and weatherproof. Side note: regarding the rest of the tools and supplies, they can be obtained from Home Depot or most hardware stores.

• We decided to do two offset layers of cleats to maximize our limited wall space in our garage. Once the boat cleats we’re screwed in, we hung the coat rack on the wall, and it was time to use. No more coats falling on the floor!

• The finished product in all its nautical glory. You can see how offsetting the boat cleats worked nicely for having two rows of coats and bags.

Discover and Share More

Follow my handy husband on his Instagram handle @PinkDoorandMore to see more DIY projects he somehow manages to accomplish with a wife and three daughters always distracting him. What’s more, share your home projects with us. You might see your own residence in an upcoming Family Home of the Month. — Lauren

Meyer

By Donna Jefferson

50 Things to Do in Maryland for Under $5

Y Explore the Best of Maryland Without Breaking the Bank!

ou still have plenty of time this summer to explore and enjoy Maryland. It doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. Here are 50 things to do in Maryland for under $5.

1. Visit the Baltimore Museum of Art. Free admission. artbma.org

2. Explore the historic town of Annapolis.Many attractions are free to visit. visitannapolis.org

3. Take a scenic walk along the Inner Harbor in Baltimore. Free.baltimore.org/what-to-do/ museums-attractions/a-tour-ofbaltimores-inner-harbor

4. Tour the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. Free guided tours

available. usna.edu/homepage.php

5. Hike the trails at Patapsco Valley State Park. Entrance fee is typically $5 or less. dnr.maryland. gov/publiclands/Pages/central/ patapsco.aspx

6. Visit the National Cryptologic Museum. Free admission.nsa.gov/ museum

7. Enjoy the beautiful scenery at Great Falls Park. Fee is $5 per vehicle.nps.gov/grfa/index.htm

8. Tour the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Free. msa.maryland. gov/msa/mdstatehouse/html/ visitor.html

9. Explore the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum - Free on select days. cbmm.org

10. Visit the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum. Free on select days. borail.org

11. Attend a free concert or event at the University of Maryland,

College Park. calendar.umd.edu

12. Discover the historic Antietam National Battlefield - Entrance fee is $5 per person. nps.gov/anti/index. htm

13. Walk through the Brookside Gardens in Wheaton. Free admission. montgomeryparks.org/ parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens

14. Visit the American Visionary Art Museum. Admission is $5 or less on certain days. avam.org

15. Explore the Cylburn Arboretum in Baltimore - Free. cylburn.org

16. Wander the ancient forest on Wye Island. Free. dnr.maryland. gov/publiclands/Pages/eastern/ WyeIsland/Trails.aspx

17. Check out the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. Free admission. thewalters.org

18. Visit the William Paca House and Garden in Annapolis - Garden Tour Admission is $5 or less. annapolis. org/other/visit-paca-house

19. Enjoy the sculptures at the Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center. Admission is $5 or less. annmariegarden.org/annmarie2

20. Visit the Patuxent Research Refuge - Free admission. fws.gov/ refuge/patuxent-research

21. Attend a free concert at Quiet Waters Park, Annapolis. aacounty. org/services-and-programs/ concerts-in-the-parks-1

22. Take a self-guided walking tour of Frederick's historic district. Free. visitfrederick.org

23. Visit the Fire Museum of Maryland. Admission is $5 or less. firemuseummd.org

24. Explore Fort McHenry, BaltimoreEntrance fee is $15 per car. nps.gov/ fomc/index.htm

25. Wander the gardens of the National Arboretum and see the old Capital columns. Free. usna.usda. gov

26. Visit the National Electronics Museum. Admission is $5/ student or less. nationalelectronics museum.org

27. Explore the trails and wildlife

at Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area - Free. dnr. maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/ central/soldiersdelight.asp

28. Spend the day at a beach on the Chesapeake Bay at Mayo Beach Park. Free. yourpassnow.com/ ParkPass/parks/aaco/park/mayo

29. Take a self-guided art walk in Baltimore's Station North Arts District - Free. stationnorth.org

30. Visit the animals and a farm-themed playground at Kinder Farm Park. $6/car entrance fee. www.aacounty. org/departments/recreation-parks/ parks/kinder-farm

31. Attend a children’s theater production - Tickets can be $5 or less. childrenstheatreof annapolis.org/shows-and-events

32. Explore the Wizard of Oz playground and Old Maryland Farm at Watkins Regional Park. Free. mncppc.org/3204/WatkinsRegional-Park

33. Hunt for sharks’ teeth at Purse State Park. Free. https://stateparks. com/purse_state_park_in_maryland. html

34. Attend a free or low-cost workshop at a local library or community center. AACPL.net

35. See the latest exhibit, The Radical Voice of Blackness Speaks of Resistance and Joy presents multidisciplinary works of art by seventeen critically-acclaimed Black Maryland-based artists, including major works from the Banneker-Douglass Museum Fine Art Collection. Free. bdmuseum. maryland.gov

36. Take a self-guided walking tour of historic Ellicott City - Free. visitoldellicottcity.com

37. Spend some time bird watching at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens. Free. nps.gov/keaq/index. htm

38. Take a ride on a water taxi in Annapolis. Price varies. watermarkjourney.com/publiccruises-water-taxi/water-taxi

39. Explore the Harriet Tubman

Underground Railroad Visitor Center. Free admission. nps.gov/ hatu/index.htm

40. Visit the Carroll County Farm Museum. Admission is $5 or $10/ family. carrollcountyfarmmuseum.org

41. Attend a local farmer's market and sample fresh produce - Free admission. mda.maryland.gov/ maryland_products/pages/farmers_ market_dir.aspx

42. Explore the play area at a mall. Free admission. chesapeakefamily.com/ best-indoor-play-areas

43. Attend a community festival or fair with low-cost or free entry. chesapeakefamily.com/eventscalendar/#!

44. Watch planes take off and land at the BWI Trail Playground. Free. chesapeakefamily.com/playgroundsfor-kids-of-all-ages/2

45. Take your family fishing. You can borrow fishing equipment from the library. chesapeakefamily.com/ summer-fun-go-fishing-with-thewhole-family

46. Attend a low-cost art class or workshop at a local art center. marylandhall.org ormchesapeakearts.org

47. Visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. Admission is $5 or less. cmuseum.org

48. Visit the Spark! where museum visitors become inventors at the National Museum of American History. Free. invention.si.edu/aboutsparklab

49. Attend a cheap dance class or social dance event with City Dock Tango. facebook.com/groups/ citydockmilonga

50. Enjoy a picnic in one of Maryland's many beautiful parks - Park entrance fees are typically $5 or less. chesapeakefamily.com/best-placesfor-a-picnic

Use these suggestions to help with your budget-friendly adventures in Maryland!

By Abby Grifno

A Day in Ocean City

Recommendations for a Day Down the Ocean

Ocean City is a small vacation town that packs a big punch for every visitor. With plenty of family-friendly activities in and out of the water, as well as a variety of evening events along the boardwalk, there is something for everyone at this seaside spot.

With many excellent options, those visiting for a weekend or even a day may feel overwhelmed picking from the plethora of restaurants and activities. We’ve crafted together a list of fun activities we are sure your family will love!

Explore the beach

The main event at Ocean City? The beach of course! With soft sand and blue skies, the ocean is the perfect place to cool off on a warm day. Consider heading there early in the morning to book the perfect spot or even fly a kite. We recommend getting a unique kite at the famous Kite Loft.

As the day warms up, there are many activities for the adventurous folks in your crew. For those looking to feel the waves, consider renting a surfboard from one of the local surf shops. Some, like Malibu’s Surf Shop, even offer lessons to get you right in

the groove. With mild waves, Ocean City is beginner friendly with plenty of opportunities to test your skill.

Or, looking for something with equal adventure but less of a learning curve? Try renting out one of the jet skis on the bay or, if you want to see the beautiful beach from above, try parasailing.

Horse around at the National Park Just a few miles outside of Ocean City is Assateague Island and National Park. If you have a car, take the short drive over and enjoy a less busy beach. At Assateague, you won’t find a huge boardwalk or even much food around, so be prepared to pack a picnic or go in between meals.

The best part of this beach is that wild horses roam around freely. You can’t approach them, but seeing a horse near the forest on the beach adds a magical touch that’s hard to beat. With its calmer atmosphere, Assateague is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.

For those looking for a beach outing, head past the bridge and find parking nearby. If you’re looking to explore the national park, they offer ranger-guided programs, kayaking, and even camping.

Don’t forget about the grub Ocean City has some excellent seafood options that everyone from the picky eater to the refined palette can enjoy.

Don’t forget to try a Maryland blue crab! For lunchtime, consider eating a classic burger at Hammerheads or enjoying a seafood crepe at the Bayside Skillet.

Ocean City also has a host of novelty restaurants for dinner. One of our favorites is Anglers, where each dinner also comes with a short boat ride after. Macky’s Bayside Bar and Grill gives beachfront views, and BLU Crabhouse and Raw Bar–known for a great happy hour–lets you feel the sand on your feet. Other popular options include the Hobbit Restaurant, On the Bay Seafood, and Fish Tails Bar and Grill. Keep in mind that most restaurants in Ocean City don’t take a reservation, so you’ll want to allow some extra time to get seated, especially if you have a large party.

Work off dinner by taking a swing at mini golf

When you first drive to O.C., you’ll notice that mini-golf is everywhere, and for good reason. It’s a great evening activity that allows for all group sizes. Many places have intricate layouts or fun optical illusions that kids and adults can enjoy.

From Hawaii-themed to pirates and dinosaurs, there is a theme for every kid. Drive along the strip to find one that looks fun to you, or check out an old favorite, Ember’s Island.

End the night scoring big or with a view

No trip to Ocean City is complete without a stop at Jolly Rogers or Trimper Rides. Both of these amusement parks can be found side by side at the end of Ocean City’s

boardwalk. They each have unique rides, with Trimper’s charging per ticket and Jolly Rogers having a wristband (all-you-can-ride) option. Before closing, they also frequently run deals to help you save.

Our favorite ride? The Ferris Wheel–you can take in all of Ocean City and the beautiful beach. It’s the perfect place for a photo or to soak in the end of a successful trip.

If heights aren’t for you, then check out some of the many games available to play. Near the amusement parks, there are several arcades filled with classic and modern games. Tickets are transferable between locations on the boardwalk too, so check them all out!

See you at the beach!

By Sandra Gordon

Success Strategies for Academic Achievement

Equipping Students with Effective Tools to Overcome Challenges and Thrive Academically

School is your child’s work, but like most jobs, there are good days and bad, great bosses (teachers) and not-so-great ones, and classes that are easier than others.

For some of even the brightest kids, however, like my youngest daughter, every test can seem difficult, every teacher hard, and every assignment a major hurdle. Tutors can help, of course, but they’re expensive and can’t do everything without cheating your child out of the “I can do it” sense of self-efficacy that can serve her well throughout life.

How can you help your aspiring scholar reach her potential? We asked

educators and learning experts for their top tips. Here are five of their best answers.

Seek out testing early.

If your student gets extra help at school but isn’t making progress academically, seek out an evaluation at school and/or at a private neuropsychology assessment center. Studies suggest that 15 to 20 percent of the population has a learning disorder of some type, such as dyslexia, a specific reading or language comprehension issue, or a math disorder.

“Learning disorders occur throughout the range of intelligence.

Even very highly functioning students can have them,” says Mark Mahone PhD, ABPP, a pediatric neuropsychologist at the Kennedy Krieger Institute at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

A learning disorder is when a child or anyone who has had adequate opportunity for instruction and has the adequate intelligence to be able to learn specific skills, isn’t learning those skills in a way that’s appropriate for his or her age. Learning disabilities are biological conditions that lead to a set of behaviors that can be challenging. They tend to run in families. “Kids can’t help it,” Dr. Mahone says.

If your child has a learning disorder, it’s important to diagnose it early, if possible, to prevent harmful repercussions. Continually tanking on tests and quizzes or not understanding the material can affect your child’s selfesteem and brain development. “The average child with a reading disability doesn’t get identified until the second or third grade. By then, that child has two, three or four years of failure before getting the appropriate intervention,” Dr. Mahone says.

Intervention, which may include medication and behavioral treatment, can help the brain reorganize more efficiently so that academic skills build naturally over time, making school easier and less stressful.

It’s important to note that learning disabilities don’t typically occur in isolation. For example, 35 to 40 percent of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also have dyslexia, and vice versa. Learning disabilities should be treated concurrently. “Whenever you find one learning disability, you should look for others,” Dr. Mahone says.

Teach kids to make oatmeal. “Learning is like driving a car. You have to keep filling the gas tank,” says Sharon Rose Sugar, an academic interventionist and author of Smart Grades: Every Day an Easy A. “It takes tremendous energy to learn, but many kids are running on empty.” Cold cereal for breakfast doesn’t cut it. “What can make a big difference in the morning is just a bowl of oatmeal,” Sugar says, topped with nutritious add-ons like walnuts, blueberries, cinnamon, honey, or maple syrup.

Kids should fuel homework sessions with wholesome study snacks too, such as an apple or rice cake with peanut butter or carrots and hummus and water. The brain is a power tool. To boost performance, “after every homework assignment, kids should eat something healthy,” Sugar says.

Preview homework, then take a brain break.

If your child is typically anxious about homework, teach her to review her homework assignments when she gets home from school, including the questions she needs to answer, then take a break before diving in. “Kids aren’t under any pressure to answer those questions right away. But their brain starts working. When they come back to their homework, it’s a lot easier for them to start their work because they’ve previewed it,” says Katherine Firestone, founder of “The Happy Student” podcast.

Turn reading into a workout. Kids have so many facts coming at them in every class and homework assignment. To help them retain key ideas they’ll later need for the test, they need to be active readers. Before reading a chapter in their textbook, students should read the chapter title, all of the headings and subheadings, and the questions at the end.

“Reviewing chapters first helps kids understand the key ideas,” says Firestone. Then, while they’re reading, they should underline the main idea and jot down notes to review for the test.

Talk yourself into better grades. “When you get As or Bs, school is more enjoyable, but some kids, especially those with learning disorders, have emotional roadblocks to getting good grades,” says Paul J. Hughes, a college professor and author of Change Your Grades. Change Your Life. Early on, kids can form negative self-perceptions, such as “I’m bad at taking tests,” which gets hardwired into their subconscious, programming them for failure. “Our thoughts affect outcomes,” Hughes says.

To help his struggling students talk themselves into doing well on tests, Hughes teaches them to write and recite specific “affirmations,” questions that address their specific academic concern, but stated as a positive, such as: “Why am I so comfortable and confident taking an exam?” and “Why do I always perform up to my expectations on an exam?”

“The why at the beginning is what the brain picks up and runs with, reprogramming the subconscious to believe what you’re telling it,” Hughes says. He advises his students to read their affirmations every day. “I say to my students, ‘I know affirmations are weird but they can change everything.’ The more you read them to yourself, the sooner they kick in.”

Resources

The Summit Resource Center offers diagnostic testing services, consultations, benchmark testing, individual tutoring, summer programs, workshops and professional development for the community.

https://www.thesummitschool.org/ summit-resource-center

LD Online provides information and advice on what parents and educators can do to help students with LD gain reading skills.

ldonline.org/ld-topics/reading-dyslexia

Protecting Student Athletes

Save a Life, Prevent Heat Illnesses

Practice for fall sports will begin soon, and the dangers of heat illness among student athletes are real. August's high temperatures and high humidity increase the possibility of heat-related illnesses. It's crucial for parents, coaches, and athletes themselves to be aware of the risks and take preventive measures. Studies have shown that the risk of developing a heat-related illness is substantially higher in football than in all other sports combined, making it particularly important for football players and their support systems to be vigilant about heat safety.

All athletes are susceptible to heatrelated illnesses, regardless of their sport. The Jordan McNair Foundation, which strives to reduce student athlete's heat-related deaths, reports that since 2000, 180 athletes have died due to heat, 85% of whom were high school students.

Recognize the Symptoms of Heat Stroke

• Mental status change [that can manifest as confusion or aggression]

• Core temperature over 104

• Quick treatment is essential

• It can happen at any age – high school kids are currently suffering the most deaths

• Have supplies on the field to start the cool-down process immediately (Parents should bring ice to every game and practice, and have a cold water tub available on the field. 150 gallons tubs are big enough to immerse a student and can be purchased for $180)

• If your child doesn’t feel well, listen to them

Prevention of Heat-related Illness

Heat-related illness is preventable, yet it remains a leading cause of death and injury among college and high school athletes. Among high school athletes in the US, heat illness ranks as the third leading cause of death.

Donna Jefferson

Dehydration, hot and humid weather conditions, and insufficient heat safety precautions are significant risk factors for heat illness in athletes.

To protect student athletes from heatrelated illnesses, it is essential to take the following preventive measures:

• Hydration: Ensuring athletes are well-hydrated before, during, and after physical activity is vital. Coaches and sports staff should encourage athletes to drink plenty of fluids regularly.

• Acclimatization: Athletes should gradually get accustomed to hot weather conditions through a structured acclimatization program. This allows their bodies to adapt to the heat more effectively.

• Rest and Shade: Encouraging athletes to take regular breaks in the shade during hot weather can help prevent heat-related illnesses.

• Heat Index Monitoring: Coaches and sports officials should monitor

the heat index and adjust practice or game schedules accordingly to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

• Appropriate Clothing: Athletes should wear lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking clothing that aids in temperature regulation.

• Education: Athletes, parents, and coaches should be educated about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and know when to seek medical attention. Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of heat illness among student athletes, allowing them to enjoy sports and physical activity safely.

The Jordan McNair Foundation has more information and resources available at: thejordanmcnairfoundation.org

August

Escape to Calvert County

History and Family-Friendly Attractions

by Nancy Parode

If you ask a Marylander about things to do in Calvert County, you’re likely to hear about fossil hunting at Calvert Cliffs. While it’s true that looking for fossils is an excellent way to spend an afternoon (more on this below), combing the beach at Calvert Cliffs State Park is just one of the many family-friendly activities Calvert County has to offer. Visitors come to Calvert County to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the county’s museums. In the summer and early fall, walking tours and sightseeing cruises are popular. Farm stands and farmers’ markets feature local produce and treats. Maryland traditions and natural beauty come together in Calvert County, giving the young and young-at-heart opportunities to make vacation memories together.

Delve Into Maryland’s Ancient Past

The Calvert Cliffs are known for their colorful layers. The beaches at the foot of the cliffs are well-known places to hunt for shells, fossils, and sharks’ teeth. Popular fossil-hunting destinations include Flag Ponds Nature Park, Calvert Cliffs State Park, Breezy Point Beach, and Matoaka Beach. You

can also take a guided fossil-hunting tour with Chesapeake Heritage and Paleontology Tours.

After you’ve collected your treasures, head to Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum in Saint Leonard. This park is home to the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Lab, where free tours are offered on Thursdays at 1:00 p.m. The park’s kidfriendly museum focuses on Maryland archaeology, making it an excellent place to find out more about digs and found artifacts from around the state.

Farther south, the Calvert Marine Museum in Solomons focuses on all things Chesapeake Bay, including paleontology. Don’t miss the life-size megalodon (ancient shark) skeleton replica—you can’t miss it, actually—or the Treasures from the Cliffs paleontology exhibit.

Experience Bay and River Traditions

While you’re at the Calvert Marine Museum, check out the exhibits on Maryland’s maritime history and the biology of Calvert County’s estuaries. Next, head to the Drum Point Lighthouse, which was moved from its location at the mouth

of the Patuxent River to the museum in 1975. Sign up at the museum’s front desk for a lighthouse tour, included with your admission. Consider adding a sightseeing cruise on the Wm. B. Tennison, built in 1899, to your museum experience. The onehour cruise takes you around Sandy Point, under the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge and up to Point Patience. (Tickets are available online and at the museum. Museum admission is not required; you can buy Tennison tickets separately.)

The Calvert Marine Museum offers tours of Cove Point Lighthouse in Lusby on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons from May through September. Lighthouses played an important role in maritime safety, and still do, although the days of the lighthouse keepers are long gone.

For a true Maryland maritime experience, head out onto the water with Solomons Island Heritage Tours. You’ll spend time on a working fishing vessel, observing (or helping with) the tasks of the day, which might include oyster dredging, checking eel pots, or learning about the gear watermen use for fishing and crabbing. Lighthouse cruises are also available.

Fun for the Whole Family

There’s something for everyone at Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center in Solomons. Shady pathways, outdoor sculptures, fairy houses, and a family discovery garden invite you to explore the grounds. In the galleries, you’ll discover juried exhibitions and the artLAB, a creative space where you can creatively repurpose everyday items. (Tip: Special events at Annmarie typically sell out in advance. Buy tickets early to be sure your family can attend.)

K&K Adventure Park in Prince Frederick offers summertime fun for children and adults alike. Mini golf is open to all ages. Children ages 5 and up who meet height/weight restrictions can ride in bumper cars or climb the rock wall. Sluggers aged 6 and older can hone their baseball skills in the batting cages. There are 188 geocaches in Calvert County as of this writing.

Geocaching involves using GPS coordinates and/or a geocaching app to locate hidden caches (usually a container holding a logbook and other items). Geocachers log their finds online and sometimes leave small objects of their own in the cache for others to find. It’s a modern-day treasure hunt!

Rainy Day Activities in Calvert County

Maryland’s weather can be somewhat unpredictable, but rain doesn’t have to ruin your Calvert County experience. Older children will enjoy a visit to the Calvert Marine Museum or the museum at Jefferson Patterson Park The younger set might prefer to explore the Imaginarium in Solomons, which features play kitchens, a child-sized firehouse, slides, and plenty of room to burn off energy. Another option is the Let’s Play Indoor Playground in Prince Frederick, which offers a toddler playroom and inflatables (bounce houses of various types) for children ages 2 to 10.

Lodging

The Springhill Suites Marriott in Prince Frederick is located next to K&K Adventure Park. If you prefer to cook some of your meals while vacationing, you can use the barbecues behind the hotel. Cool off at the end of the day in the heated indoor pool. The Rod ‘N’ Reel Resort on the waterfront in Chesapeake Beach features a new rooftop pool, a bandshell for summer concerts, and on-site restaurants. The Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum, which showcases the railroad that once brought tourists to Chesapeake Beach, is near the front entrance, and the Chesapeake Beach Water Park is across the street. The resort is open for business during ongoing renovations.

Head to VisitCalvert.com to learn more about Calvert County’s family-friendly attractions.

go out

TONS OF FUN THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH

4th Annual Clarksville Sunflower Market

ALL AUGUST LONG

Mary's Land Farm has 6-acres of sunflower fields that features over a dozen varieties of sunflowers ranging from 2ft tall to over 12ft tall. You will also see several different colors and shades of sunflower blooms; from classic summer yellow to orange and deep reds, and even pale yellow to almostwhite! During the month of August, you will be able to lose yourself among the blooms and take full advantage of the natural beauty surrounding you; perfect for family photos and selfies! Weekend Market Tickets includes a wagon ride to and from your car, unlimited walking through the sunflower patch with unlimited photo-taking, one pick-your-own sunflower in a water bag, and all the market amenities including food trucks, vendors, live music, cocktails, animal encounters, and the farm store. Weekday Tickets include unlimited walking through the sunflower patch with photo-taking, and pick your own sunflowers. There are no market events during the weekdays. maryslandfarm.com

2 Wednesday

ECHOES OF NATURE: ANIMALS OF KUNG FU

Meet the live animals of Echoes of Nature and learn how their movements have inspired traditional Kung Fu styles. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Discoveries: The Library at the Mall, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

MORNINGS AT THE MUSEUM: FOSSIL ADVENTURES

Aug 2, 16. At 10 AM, participants are dropped off at Cove Point Lighthouse, where they meet CMM educators. The program leader teaches a short lesson on local Miocene fossils and what to look for. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Cove Point Lighthouse 3500 Lighthouse Boulevard, Lusby. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

3 Thursday

CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. The St. Michaels Community Center’s free, waterfront Summer Concert Series is returning on **Thursdays from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. to Muskrat Park in St. Free. 5:30-7 p.m. Muskrat Park, St. Michaels. stmichaelscc.org.

CREEK CRITTERS

Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. 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 - $8.00. 10:30-11 a.m. The Chesapeake Children’s Museum, Annapolis. theccm.org.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT: THE MUPPETS

Come and enjoy a family movie together! Bring your friends, blanket, and/or camp chair and get comfy for this indoor event. You’re in for a great movie! 6:30-8:30 p.m. Linthicum Library, Linthicum. aacpl.net.

¡HOLA, AMIGO!

123 Andrés brings a multilingual celebration of friendship and community, where we work together, share ideas and help each other. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Discoveries: The Library at the Mall, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

SUMMER MOVIES ON THE LAWN

Films will be shown on the southeast lawn at the corner of 2nd Street, SE and Independence Ave. Music will be presented before each film at 7 p.m., with live performances on 8.3. Free. 7 p.m. The Library of Congress, Washington. go.loc.gov.

4 Friday

$12 FAMILY FUN NIGHTS

Friday nights from May through August, the museum will extend its hours to 7pm. From 4pm-7pm admission will be $12! $12.00. 4-7 p.m. Port Discovery Children’s Museum, Baltimore. cli.re.

CHARLES COUNTY SUMMER FEST

The first Friday of every month, there will be music, vendors, food trucks & MORE! 6 p.m. Waldorf. explorecharlescounty.com.

FIRST FOSSIL FRIDAY!

Fossil hunters, bring your fossil finds from the Calvert Cliffs or other local areas from 1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. to be identified! 1-4:30 p.m. Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

HALF-PRICE FRIDAY NIGHT

Aug 4, 11, 18, 25. Overview Friday is your night!

$15.00 - $20.00. 5 p.m. National Aquarium, Baltimore. aqua.org.

SUMMER CONCERTS

Aug 4, 11, 18, 25. Summer Concerts are back!

Join us every Friday from 5pm-8pm, for free, family friendly live music at the Boathouse Pavilion in the East Village (located next to P.F. Chang’s). Free. 5-8 p.m. Annapolis Town Center, Annapolis. annapolistowncenter.com.

5 Saturday

2ND ANNUAL SOMD ITALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Amazing authentic Italian food, Elvis and Patsy Kline Tribute, Pet Friendly Pet Adoption and tons of shopping.... great family fun! 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Fairgrounds Road, Leonardtown.

FIRST SATURDAYS

Each month, join us for a fun and relaxed experience featuring art making, films, and a variety of special pop-up activities. All activities are free, and most are first come, first served. Free. 11 a.m. National Gallery of Art, Washington. nga.gov.

TURTLE AND TERRAPIN TALK

Do you know the difference between a turtle, tortoise, and terrapin? Ages 6-12. Free. 1-2 p.m. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater. serc.si.edu.

DC WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL

Voted #1 Best Cultural Festival by USA Water Lantern Festival TODAY two years in a row!

$25.99 - $55.99. 5:30-10 p.m. National Harbor SouthPointe, Oxon Hill. waterlanternfestival.com.

6 Sunday

FIRST SUNDAY FARMER’S MARKET

At Honey’s Harvest Farm, we focus on growing food and medicine using the principles of permaculture and regenerative agriculture. We start by building healthy, living soil that is packed with a 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Honey’s Harvest Farm, Lothian. honeysharvest.com.

10 Thursday

ADULT BOOK CLUB - THE FORTUNES OF JADED WOMEN BY CAROLYN HUYNH

Join us at the Crofton Library for our Adult Book Club! This month we will discuss The Fortunes of Jaded Women by Carolyn Huynh . 2-3 p.m. Crofton Library, Crofton. aacpl.net.

11 Friday

GOSHEN FARM SUMMER CONCERT

Join us for a sensational summer evening at Goshen Farm with our Free Friday Night Concert Series! 6:30-8:30 p.m. Historic Goshen Farm and Educational Center, Annapolis. chesapeakecrossroads.org.

SEPTEMBER SONG PRESENTS THE SOUND OF MUSIC

Aug 11-13. September Song Musical Theatre proudly presents The Sound of Music. The final collaboration between Rodgers & Hammerstein was destined to become the world’s most beloved musical. $20.00 - $28.00. 7-9:30 p.m. The Scott Center for the Fine & Performing Arts, Westminster. septembersong.org.

SEVERNSTOCK: SUMMER @ YOUR LIBRARY GRAND FINALE FESTIVAL!

Come all together now to our end of Summer festival. It’s Severnstock! Join us for music, games and fun as we celebrate a great summer of reading, learning, and growing together as a community. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Severn Library, Severn. aacpl.net.

12 Saturday

2023 NATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL

Join the Library of Congress for family-friendly activities at the 2023 National Book Festival, including stories and activities for kids. It’s FREE and FUN for readers of all ages! Free. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington. loc.gov.

EXPLORE THE SMITHSONIAN BY CANOE

Aug 12, 26. Tour of the Rhode River. We’ll cover basic paddling and provide canoes and PFDs. While on the water we’ll look for wildlife and discuss SERC research. For ages 8 and older. 9-11:30 a.m. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater. serc.si.edu.

KIDS’ DIY-U WORKSHOP

Open the tailgate and unload the fun for this Kids Workshop. Your mini-DIYer will build their own little Pickup Truck toy using real tools. No grease but lots of great memories. Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Lowe’s Home Improvement, Various Locations. lowes.com.

MESS FEST

Mess Fest at Maryland Science Center | Saturday, August 12 & Sunday, August 13 12-4PM 12 p.m. Maryland Science Center, Baltimore. waterfrontpartnership.org.

ODENTON LIBRARY COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

Join us for a day of fun, crafts and activities while getting a chance to meet your neighbors and visit activity and information tables from organizations within our community. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Odenton Library, Odenton. aacpl.net.

WEEKEND WORKSHOPS

Aug 12, 20, 26, 27. Calling all artists! Get creative during our drop-in workshops for all ages. Learn about artists and changemakers and create art inspired by their stories. Add to Calendar Free. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. National Portrait Gallery, Washington. npg.si.edu.

13 Sunday

HANDS-ON HISTORY DAY

Visit the Museum of Historic Annapolis on the second Sunday of every month for Hands-On History Days. $0.00 - $5.00. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Museum of Historic Annapolis, Annapolis. annapolis.org.

KOMITE AYITI’S HAITIAN CARIBBEAN FESTIVAL

Komite Ayiti, Inc. in collaboration with the Friends of Patterson Park is having its third annual Haitian Caribbean Festival! Please come enjoy Haitian and Caribbean culture. Free. 2-8 p.m. The Observatory at Patterson Park, Baltimore. eventbrite.com.

14 Monday

BUTTERFLY RELEASE STORY TIME

Say goodbye to our library butterflies at this special family story time. Learn about the butterfly life-cycle, sing songs, listen to a story, and watch as our library butterflies take wing! 10:30-11:30 a.m. Edgewater Library, Edgewater. aacpl.net.

FAMILY BINGO

Enjoy playing Bingo with family and friends and win prizes! 6:30-8 p.m. Broadneck Library, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

YOGA IN THE PARK

Aug 14, 28. Start your week off right with an outdoor yoga class at the Chrysalis! Free. 6-7 p.m. Merriweather Park at Symphony Woods, Columbia. eventbrite.com.

16 Wednesday

TOUCH A TRUCK AND SUMMER @ YOUR LIBRARY GRAND FINALE

Celebrate the end of summer at Touch a Truck: a family-friendly event offering children a hands-on opportunity to explore the large trucks and machines they see but never get to touch! 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Discoveries: The Library at the Mall, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

18

Friday

NEURODIVERSE LIBRARY HOUR

Families come enjoy the library during our Neurodiverse Hour. Lights will be dimmed, activities provided, fidgets available, limited number of families in the branch. 9-10 a.m.

Discoveries: The Library at the Mall, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

19 Saturday

CHILDREN’S DAY AT ST. CLEMENT’S ISLAND MUSEUM

a FREE day of kid-friendly fun on the beautiful

waterside lawn of St. Clement’s Island Museum. Free. St. Mary’s County Government, Leonardtown. stmarysmd.com.

FAMILY FIELD DAYS AT THE JOHNS HOPKINS HOUSE (WITH BANDS & FOOD TRUCKS)

A Family Field Days Festival to Benefit Whites Hall (Johns Hopkins’ Birthplace) and Honor the Former Enslaved of the Whites Hall Plantation

11 a.m.-10 p.m. The Johns Hopkins House, Gambrills. eventbrite.com.

FAMILY FUN DAY WITH ROCKET SCIENCE

Explore the museum and participate in an activity and demonstrations at 11:30am and 1pm with paid admission. Make paper rockets, launch towards a target. Kids’ Astronaut suits to try on. $3.00 - $6.00. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Glenn L Martin Maryland Aviation Museum, Middle River. mdairmuseum.org.

LEONARDTOWN SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL

Spend the day lounging by the water’s edge, taking in some live music, and eating at one of the neighborhood eateries. Free. 5-8 p.m. Leonardtown Wharf, Leonardtown. visitstmarysmd.com.

MOVIES AT THE LIBRARY: SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE (2018)

Severna Park Library welcomes you to a family friendly screening of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) rated PG for parental guidance. 1:30-4 p.m. Severna Park Library, Severna Park. aacpl.net.

MR. PACA’S GARDEN STORYTIME

Little Ferry feels like no one notices her. She isn’t strong like Tugboat or fast like Speedboat or graceful like Sailboat, the boats everyone loves to watch. But Little Ferry is special, too! $5.00 - $10.00. 10 a.m. William Paca House and Garden, Annapolis. annapolis.org.

TEEN SCENE: FIELD RESEARCH AS A CAREER AND HANDS-ON SCIENCE

Ages 13-17. Free. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Edgewater. serc.si.edu.

20 Sunday

MUSEUM FUNFEST

Join us for our first ever Museum FunFest on the museum grounds. Putt on over for some fun on the mini golf course and see if you can achieve a hole-in-one! 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Calvert Marine Museum, Solomons. calvertmarinemuseum.com.

Lower School Open House Preschool – Grade 5

October 4, 2023

Chesapeake Campus 1185 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. Arnold, MD 21012

Middle & Upper School Open House Grades 6-12

October 19, 2023

Teel Campus 201 Water St. Severna Park, MD 21146

STEAM SUNDAY: BIRDS OF FLIGHT

Join us for STEAM Sunday! Echoes of Nature will teach us about Birds of Flight! Free. 10:3011:15 a.m. Chesapeake Arts Center, Brooklyn Park. canvas.chesapeakearts.org.

21 Monday

OPEN MIC NIGHT

Come join us as an audience member or a performer for a night of songs, dancing, and poetry at our open mic night! Please make sure your act is family friendly. All ages are welcome! 7-8 p.m. Eastport-Annapolis Neck Library, Annapolis. aacpl.net.

22 Tuesday

CONCERTS ON THE AVENUE

Join us on select Tuesday evenings this summer to hear the world-renowned U.S. Navy Band perform its Concerts on the Avenue series. Registration is not required for this event.

7:30-8:30 p.m. Navy Memorial, Washington. navymemorial.org.

24 Thursday

MARYLAND STATE FAIR

Excitement is just around the corner! The 142nd Maryland State Fair, open for three long weekends this summer: Aug. 24-27; Aug. 31- Sept. 4; and, Sept. 7-10. $7.00 - $12.00. 5-10 p.m. Maryland State Fair, Timonium. marylandstatefair.com.

RIVERFRONT (RE)CONNECT SUMMER

SERIES: MOVIES ON THE PITCH

Join your friends and neighbors for free and inexpensive outdoor experiences on Thursday evenings throughout the summer in Capitol Riverfront. Free. 7:30 p.m. Washington. capitolriverfront.org.

25 Friday

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Join us for a festive evening of family entertainment on the beautiful grounds of Irvine. $10.00 - $25.00. 7:15-9:15 p.m. Irvine Nature Center, Owings Mills. explorenature.org.

26 Saturday

OPENING DAY OF RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL

Don’t miss the 2023 Renaissance Festival! rennfest.com

30 Wednesday

BLUE SUPERMOON KAYAK

Experience the spectacle of the largest full moon of the year as it shines over the marsh. $15.00. 6:30-9 p.m. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, Abingdon. harfordcountymd.gov.