July-August 2024

STYLE coastal

COMPLETE IMMERSION LASTING LEGACIES CONTEMPORARY OUTCOMES

Let There Be Light!

MODERN LIGHTING SYSTEMS OFFER A HOST OF BENEFITS, INCLUDING SECURITY, ENERGY SAVINGS AND HEALTHIER LIVING

Did you know that a recent study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency revealed that Americans spend an average of 87% of their day inside? This presents a critical issue, as our natural body clocks are set to the sun. By spending much of our time indoors, our circadian rhythms can be dramatically thrown off, which can result in poor sleep, irritable moods and a lack of productivity — for starters.

At Overture, we design home lighting systems that can automatically simulate natural light throughout the course of the day, with cooler, brighter colors keeping you focused during the day and warm, dimmer colors allowing you to relax comfortably in the evening.

Lighting control ranges from a simple, in-wall dimmer to a fully automated whole-house system with dimmer panels and low voltage in-wall keypads. Lighting zones can be easily programmed for automated “turn-on” and “turn-off” events and schedules. Automated lighting also includes fully controllable scenes, color temperatures and light-color variabilities. Lighting control can be accomplished from controllers in your home, as well as from your phone anywhere in the world.

Today’s lighting fixtures project a greater amount of light while consuming far less electricity than previous fixtures and bulbs. Modern light fixtures can produce thousands of different light colors as well, such as red, blue green or white, upon command. We routinely install and program systems that have interior lights come on at sunset for ambiance and illuminate hallways throughout the home.

Outdoor low-voltage lighting is a major feature to showcase your home and Overture carries several manufacturers of landscape lighting. Modern LED landscape lights can be dimmed as well and come in thousands of different fixtures and looks.

Exterior lighting systems can be set to illuminate at sunset and cease at sunrise, all while maintaining exact times for each event throughout the year.

Lighting, both inside and outside of your home, is a crucial element in providing ambiance, security, convenience and energy savings — all while allowing you to lead a healthier lifestyle.

At Overture, we take great pride in designing and installing the appropriate system for our clients — while exceeding their expectations.

“It is with great joy and excitement that we announce we are opening a new office location in West Ocean City. This will allow us to serve the greater Ocean City community with the utmost dedication and attention to every detail that locals and second homeowners deserve.

Located in the Teal Marsh Shopping Plaza, the Live Oak Home Builders headquarters will be a gathering place of inspiration and communication for our team and our clients. From the very first day in our company’s history, our customers, their experience and their ultimate satisfaction have been the driving forces for our success. World-class customer service is our standard — and we stand behind that in every respect.

Ocean City is a very special place for me and my family. We are honored to be a part of this community, building homes with exceptional craftsmanship and new technologies that far surpass the expectations of our clients.”

— Justin White BUILDING ROOTS IN OCEAN CITY

OWNER, LIVE OAK HOME BUILDERS

Justin & Anna White, with their son, Jase, and daughter, Savannah

EXPERIENCE MATTERS

Coastal real estate sales are large financial transactions, typically done from afar that involve a lot of time, information and people to manage. It is in your best interests to have a knowledgeable advisor by your side to help you navigate through this process and make decisions that you are confident in.

The agents at Coastal Life Realty Group are uniquely positioned to do so. Our local knowledge, market experience and proven track record of success ensure that you will have a seamless real estate experience from our first conversation all the way through to the closing table.

We will ultimately make the overall real estate process more efficient, save you time and money and help to ensure you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact a Coastal Life Realty Group agent today to get started.

Step

Layers of texture and thoughtful details in this custom Bethany Beach home create a serene atmosphere that capitalizes on the property’s surroundings.

With its miles of private beaches and amenities galore, Pot-Nets communities offer residents and visitors the best in bay living in Delaware. 64 AT HOME ON HARRIS CREEK

A family retreat in Shrewood, MD with ‘coastal comfortable’ materials can be lived in and loved on. Pretention not included.

COASTAL LIVING AT POT-NETS

Photo by Stephen Cherry

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CBM Law offers legal support for state and federal litigation.

32 26 36 40 REGIONAL LAW, LOCAL ROOTS COMPLETE IMMERSION A TEAM YOU CAN TRUST LASTING LEGACIES HEART OF A CHAMPION

Pohanka KIA prides itself on providing the very best customer service.

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Susan Roche’s underwater photos/encaustic mixed media captivates viewers.

Kevin Fitzgerald and his son, Evan, are set to unveil collaborative works.

Gavin Bren has his eye on surfing for Team USA while growing in the sport.

44 AUTHORING THE NEXT CHAPTER

Cambridge-based author David Nees thrills fans with his gripping novels.

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Meet the talented female team of insurance professionals at NFP.

News, advice and information from the Shore’s leading healthcare provider.

Philip Bernot shares tasting notes about three reds worth trying this summer.

Limbo’s Sean Norris takes to the waters with a premade batch of cocktails.

Award-winning Shore Smoke Seasonings continues its growth.

114 NAUTICAL NECESSITIES HE’S SPICIN’ THINGS UP EMBRACING EXPLORATION THE LATEST AT TIDALHEALTH INSURING CONFIDENCE

Jake Fitzsimmons is on a mission to make his brand a household name.

SEASONED FOR SUCCESS PARTING SHOT

Photographer Gandhi Hurwitz checks off a bucket list image.

Photo by Marci Ryan

Photo by Ivana Bell

SVETLANA

MARCI

MEGAN

KRISTA VALLIANT

EASTERN SHORE COMMUNITIES

IT’S FINALLY HERE! THE SEASON OF ALL SEASONS, in which we bask in Mother Nature’s glory, welcome hundreds of thousands of Eastern Shore enthusiasts and try our best to avoid being stuck in traffic. Relish the rays (safely) and enjoy all that this wonderful region offers us during the summer months ahead. We visited 14 communities during the production of this issue to bring you stories of people who strive to make the Shore an even better place to live. We wish you good health and hope you enjoy this issue. Drop us a line at info@ coastalstylemag.com or on Facebook or Instagram to connect with us. We’d love to hear from you.

Regional Law With Local Roots

Legal support for state and federal litigation is close to home in Salisbury and now in West Ocean City as CBM Law invites clients into its new second location. CBM is trusted by locals in Wicomico and Worcester Counties—and throughout the state of Maryland—for successful litigation that includes federal employment law and a wide array of civil suits.

With CBM, relentless advocacy and a track record for outstanding client counsel is right on the Shore. No need to cross the Bay Bridge. At the same time, the firm’s Eastern Shore roots and local understanding provide a foundation for a localized practice including regional real estate settlements, land use cases and corporate transactions. As a go-to legal team, clients also rely on CBM for domestic law, including divorce

and custody matters and protective orders, along with misdemeanor, minor and major traffic and criminal cases.

A second location for in-person conversations is also important for the practice’s thriving estates and trust law department led by Heather Konyar.

Experience in Federal civil litigation plus coastal connections uniquely position CBM Law as an accessible, experienced partner that can expedite cases. The firm provides a “deep bench” of seasoned lawyers. Mark Brennan, who leads the firm’s domestic relations practice, and Robin Cockey, who leads the firm in federal litigation, each boast more than 40 years experience. The firm is a recognized front runner in municipal law and local government relations, as exemplified by 20-year veteran Ashley Boschè, who serves as

of

Both offices are also equipped with conference space and video capacity for Zoom depositions, mediations and court hearings, and include private meeting space for attorney-client discussions.

Not only is the firm expanding its footprint, it has more than tripled in legal capacity and attorney staff since its founding in 1997, with plans to invite several more lawyers to the CBM family this summer as the firm further grows its bandwidth.

Managing Partner Laura Ryan says, “We are equally proud of our ties to the community and our ability to deliver boutique federal litigation services right at home.”

Cockey, Brennan & Maloney P.C. • 410-546-1750 • CBMLawFirm.com Offices: 313 Lemmon Hill Lane, Salisbury and 12216 Ocean Gateway, Unit #500, Ocean City

Salisbury City Solicitor. By 2025, the firm looks to have a staff

10 attorneys.

From Left: Mark Brennan, Laura Ryan, Robin Cockey, Heather Konyar, Peter Golba, Ashley Boschè and TJ Maloney

Photo by Svetlana Leahy

Meet What’s New in KitchenS, Baths and More!

We’re a team bringing our clients’ visions to life. We’re a team ready to help you plan and articulate every detail in the design phase, coordinate and execute flawlessly in the remodeling phase and deliver every last detail in the completion phase. Let’s Create What You’ve Been Dreaming Of.

To schedule a COMPLIMENTARY consultation or tour our cabinetry showroom, please call us at 302-278-0051 OR VISIT US ONLINE AT THATDESIGN.STUDIO

Alexandria, VA

Ocean City

Bethany Beach

A Team You Can Trust

THE POHANKA KIA OF SALISBURY TEAM CONTINUES TO PROVIDE ONE OF THE VERY BEST CAR BUYING EXPERIENCES ON THE EASTERN SHORE

Photography by Krista Valliant

Pohanka KIA of Salisbury focuses on a customer-first approach as one of the leading dealerships on the Eastern Shore. It’s team of highly talented and skilled professionals prides itself on a seamless, fun shopping experience with customer service and communication at the forefront of every vehicle purchase.

Pohanka KIA Vice President of Operations Ryan Fitzgerald is focused on

giving his customers the best customer service experience possible. The sales management team of Brandon Owens, Robbie Pasquith and Mike Olah are the perfect combination to make sure all their KIA customers find the car of their dreams.

Service Manager Brad Adkins and Service Director Samantha Martin keep the KIA service department running with great customer service, factory-trained technicians and advisors, as well as

complimentary shuttle service. Customer service and fixing a customer’s vehicle right the first time are of the utmost importance to Brad.

Pohanka KIA’s all-star lineup includes the highly popular Telluride and many hybrid and electric models. The 2025 model releases are in full swing and Pohanka KIA is fully stocked and ready to assist with your next KIA purchase.

Professional, certified service delivered with a smile

At Pohanka KIA of Salisbury, its mission is to provide its customers with the same exceptional level of service that led them to purchase a KIA vehicle in the first place.

They offer a comprehensive selection of genuine KIA parts and accessories, so customers can accessorize their vehicle to fit your style. Whether they purchased their vehicle from Pohanka KIA of Salisbury or not, the dealership is committed to being their No. 1 destination for auto service and repair on the Eastern Shore.

The importance of regular service cannot be underestimated. Doing so routinely by Pohanka KIA’s certified technicians can increase your car’s resale value, helps to extend the life of the vehicle, helps maintain optimum safety and reliability and helps obtain the highest levels of vehicle performance.

Ready to make an appointment? You can conveniently do so right from your phone by visiting the Pohanka KIA of Salisbury website and schedule your service today.

The all-new KIA EV9 is redefining expectations with its space

and speed

The all-new, all-electric EV9 is a bold embodiment of luxury featuring ample cargo and passenger room, advanced technology and confidence-inspiring acceleration. With impressive fastcharging capabilities, seating for up to seven adults, the KIA EV9 fuses capable SUV attitude with the power of an EV.

FULLY STOCKED FOR YOUR VISIT

Pohanka KIA of Salisbury features more than 200 new and pre-owned vehicles ready for a test drive today.

Whether it’s the top-of-the-line Telluride, the all-electric EV9, the ultra-versatile Sorento, the fun and functional Sportage or the compact and rugged Seltos, there’s a KIA SUV that’s right for you.

And they’re all packed with features you’ve come to rely on in a KIA, giving you a variety of options to choose from to best fit your lifestyle and budget.

As a premier KIA dealer, Pohanka KIA of Salisbury has a huge selection of new and pre-owned vehicles from which to choose.

Pohanka KIA of Salisbury offers genuine KIA service and parts, a great online user experience and outstanding financing options— all making Pohanka KIA of Salisbury a preferred dealer serving KIA customers across the Eastern Shore and beyond. Ready to set up a test drive? Visit their professional and courteous team of experts in Salisbury today! CS

POHANKA KIA OF SALISBURY 667-285-8851 • PohankaKiaMD.com

Live by the Sea in Style.

local

Complete Immersion

SUSAN ROCHE’S UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY AND RESULTING ENCAUSTIC MIXED MEDIA WORKS INVITE VIEWERS INTO AN ETHEREAL, HEALING SPACE

Written by Kristen Hampshire

“Water is healing,” says Susan Roche. “Time in it, by it, near it—water soothes your soul and makes everything better.”

When the lifelong artist began photographing people under water, something “playful and alive and exciting” emerged. “Someone who might be old can get out in the water and say, ‘I feel like I am a girl again! I can do anything. Yes! Yes!”

This is basically what brought Roche to her passion and current focus as historically a portrait photographer who had been capturing extended family photos of sandcastle building, beach walking and ocean splashing since her now young-adult children were learning their ABCs.

Raising children in Bay Head, New Jersey, in northern Ocean County, the sea was their front yard. Having shifted from a job as a photojournalist at a local newspaper into portraiture, Roche grew a thriving Eastern Shore business—while putting on hold a desire to become a fine artist, she says. There just wasn’t time.

By the time her youngest child was a senior in high school in 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit—a direct blast to Bay Head. “My gallery and frame shop business had five feet of water in it, and my home flooded,” Roche says, relating a shock that thousands of empathetic residents recall.

But water is healing. So, she went to it—and after reconstruction and cleanup, the town was quiet and there weren’t many families around to photograph. Roche took to her pool.

“We got our pool going right away because I love to swim and when I’m in the water, I find peace,” she says.

She also found an encore career and thriving fine art venture in encaustic mixed media.

“My work is about restoration,” she says in an artist’s statement. “Through it, I strive to capture the beauty of hope and change after devastation.

Diving In

“I’ve had people who have had major crises, whether personal or health-related, and they feel like this process changes them,” Roche says of the process and a final product that is empowering. “I feel like I’m a conduit.”

During those post-Sandy pool days, Roche started experimenting with professional cameras equipped with underwater housing so she could combine her two escapes: water and photography.

There was some trial and error, mainly with the equipment.

“I’ve learned how to be very thorough, so I don’t ruin cameras,” she quips, citing some costly casualties when the watertight expectation didn’t quite happen. Now, she has a setup.

“When I was mostly doing portraiture, I always wanted to make sure I had enough equipment, so if there was a failure, my client never knew,” she says. “If I’m photographing a model or a client, I have complete underwater setups with dive-quality housing.”

Clients literally dive in, and Roche conducts the shoot. It’s a full-immersion experience.

“It’s quite fun,” Roche says. “People want to do something special and create something personal. I show them how to move underwater. I have people who don’t know how to swim do this.”

A heated pool is a must. “No one wants to go into a cold pool,” Roche quips.

She has tried photographing underwater in the ocean and in rivers or in Florida springs. But nature stirs things up and you get salt, sand and not quite the clarity required to continue to the next parts of Roche’s process. Because the impactful underwater session is only the beginning of her work.

Depth and Layers

Much like the cameras, Roche also experimented with layering finishes before finding the right fit. “It didn’t come instantly,” she shares. “At first, I was painting over top of the printed photographs with resin and shellac, and then I thought, ‘What would I do if I was a kid?’ I started pulling out wax and I thought, ‘I’ll do encaustic.”

The overall process evokes layers: depth, as in the pool; all-the-things life when clients dive in and dissolve their stress; and ancient wax theory.

Encaustic wax is how Egyptians preserved colors in artwork. Roche applies up to 20 different layers over each art piece, building a waterlike texture with a smooth finish. “There is a tactile, organic feel,” she says of the beeswax and resin she builds on top of large-format prints. “I might add colors into that.”

Here’s how it goes. After what is usually a life-changing swim-art immersion with Roche capturing images that feel acrobatic with a tinge of mermaid. Though she’s quick to add, it’s not about mermaids, “it’s about an ethereal beauty that is calming and peaceful.”

Then, it’s off to her studio, where she prints on fine art paper—think big. “When I learned retouching, we had to use pastels, oils, cold wax and did layers, and that is how we created the background, way before Photoshop,” she says.

“I take these historic techniques and create layers upon layers,” she continues.

It’s really the ultimate hands-on tactile Photoshop.

She says, “It feels like everything I’ve learned since doing art as a little girl is just refined and coming together, and it’s the best work of my life.”

Roche’s home is on pilings now. Her studio is underneath, and her shows are flourishing. She, too, experienced a rebirth at the crossroads of disaster, water and photography. And the healing is an ultimate gift to her clients.

“We’ve all gone through things that aren’t easy,” she says. “I want my work to make people feel good, feel at peace.”

Superstorm Sandy was a disastrous trigger to pivot. Roche was striving for peace, too. “I’m in a good place and I want my work to take that goodness and share it.” CS

Experience the work of Susan Roche

11-14

August 2-3: Rehoboth Art League’s

FAMILY TIES

Lasting

I Legacies

ARTISTIC TALENT RUNS DEEP THROUGH THE FITZGERALD PEDIGREE, DATING BACK MORE THAN A CENTURY. THIS AUGUST, KEVIN FITZGERALD AND HIS SON, EVAN, WILL UNVEIL COLLABORATIVE WORKS IN A TWO-PERSON SHOW.

n some families, tradition runs like a long golden ribbon through the years. Memories move by like a landscape changing in the sun and shade. This kind of continuity looks backward toward history but acts in the present by giving different answers to the same questions. Kevin Fitzgerald and his son Evan are painters who, like their ancestors, create to learn, observe and maintain the dialog with the past, present and future through art.

Written by Joe Willey

Photography by Svetlana Leahy

Artists Kevin Fitzgerald, right, and his son, Evan, continue a family legacy that dates back to 1910.

Described as one of America’s truly great golf courses, Baywood Greens is a public 18-hole championship course. Manicured greens, flawless fairways, man-made ponds, timber bridges, tunnels and over 200,000 flowers, plants, shrubs and trees don’t begin to describe its beauty.

Known as the “Augusta of the North,” Baywood Greens is by far the most visually spectacular golf course in Delaware and is consistently ranked #1 by Golf Digest’s Best in State.

Photo by Grant L. Gursky

Kevin Fitzgerald is a third-generation artist in the Fitzgerald family. His grandfather, John R. Fitzgerald, graduated from the Maryland Institute, College of Art (MICA) in 1910. He was a painter and cartographer for the U.S. Government. He designed some of the first aviation maps for the Department of Commerce. Some of Kevin’s earliest memories were of spending time with his grandfather in his basement studio, watching him paint. These memories have stayed with him and are constantly relived. His mother, Frances Jeanette Fitzgerald, was a painter, too. She attended the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design in Washington, D.C., and, like her father, painted at night and devoted herself to the craft when she retired. Kevin attended MICA, earning his BFA in painting, and then earned his MFA in painting from The George Washington University. He painted, taught and worked unwaveringly to be able to paint full-time, and at 47 years old, he did.

His son, Evan, is the fourth-generation painter and the third MICA alumni in the family, who also holds a MFA from James Madison University. In a happy quirk of fate, he and his father studied under two of the most prominent members of the MICA faculty—Albert “Abby“ Sangiamo and Raul Middleman. Each brought their concern with historical tradition and emphasis on craft to teaching the fine arts. Both Kevin and Evan feel a deep appreciation for this shared experience, though 30 years apart.

In August, Kevin and Evan have a joint show—featuring neverbefore-seen collaborative works—at the Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts. Though their works seem to differ dramatically, both are firmly rooted in the Western tradition of painting—a classical focus on humans and the world around us—but look farther back into prehistory. They are exploring a sense of wonder.

For Kevin, landscapes are about putting the viewer in the place of humanity’s first contact with the world around them. Seeing one of his paintings makes the viewer think that the world had drummed its rhythm eons before, and they are seeing it for the first time after waking from a dream.

In Evan’s work, large portraits wearing flowers, plants, and unlikely animals as headdresses take us back to when humans first explored the thought-provoking ideas of persona and how we chose to present ourselves to the world.

No matter if it is viewing a landscape with shapes, sun, or shadow or a person adorned with beautiful objects to enhance their status, both artists create works about people. Perhaps that is why the continuity of generations of painters is so significant in the show and the Fitzgerald family. Yes, each generation sees things differently, but when the work moves through the years, like the unfolding of a scroll, it is all about people and how they perceive the beauty of the world around them.

Both Fitzgeralds are looking for meaning by creating. They are exploring when they put paint on canvas or wood. Paraphrasing Socrates, it is the examined life that is most worth living. And they, like the others before them, are continuing the search. These two artists are inviting us all to join in the journey. CS

Experience the work of Kevin and Evan Fitzgerald

Through July 29: Points

of Departure II, Troika Gallery, Easton—(Kevin-Solo) August: Generations in Art, Art League of Ocean City—(Kevin & Evan)

Located in Berlin, Maryland, Gull Creek Senior Living is an innovative assisted living environment that champions active senior lifestyles with activities connecting residents to culture, nearby Berlin attractions, and local nature reserves. Additionally, the

Maryland

facility features an acclaimed park-like garden. Gull Creek is nationally recognized for the quality of life provided to its residents. Services include on-site 24/7 care, medication management, physician assessments, housekeeping, laundry, and restaurant-style dining.

Visit Gull Creek Senior Living and the Gull Creek Garden.

Residents, staff, family, and friends now enjoy participating in gardening activity and outdoor events in our newly created community garden.

We focus on love, compassion, and dignity. Gull Creek is dedicated to providing residents with a creative and active lifestyle to enhance independence and quality of life. See what others have to say about our award winning care.

Heart of a

Champion

WITH ASPIRATIONS TO SURF FOR TEAM USA ONE DAY SOON, GAVIN BREN EQUALLY FOCUSES ON RIDING THE JOYS OF THE SPORT

Written by Kristen Hampshire

Next-level surfing demands mental stamina, grit and resilience—because competing in your teens with a smaller pond of serious surfers is a whole different contest than earlier years when so many are just testing the waters.

Ocean City native Gavin Bren recalls his first home state competition when he paddled into a wave on his own. “That is where it all started,” he told Coastal Style two years ago. He started competing at age 7 at the K-Coast Beginners Bash and continued a streak of consistent first place wins in the Eastern Surfing Association (ESA) and the Maryland State Surfing Championships.

Finetuning his performance mindset to gain life perspective and balance is important to Gavin, who is focused on USA Surfing, while pursuing his goal to progress in the technical aspects of his surfing.

Gavin first found success on the national stage when he placed second at the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) Nationals at age 11. With that success, he was invited to compete in the USA Surfing Prime Series, and after his first season, was selected as a member of the USA Surfing Junior National Team. Now, as his career has advanced, Gavin is more intentional and focused on USA Surfing.

Gavin’s “surf, skate, stoke” everyday life involves daily water time in Ocean City, strength and mobility training with Drew Burke or riding waves in Costa Rica, working with Jorge (Flaco) Gonzales.

“The biggest part [of training] is surfing every day in all different conditions because you never know what kind of waves you’ll compete in, so I prepare for the unknown,” he says.

GROWTH MINDSET

Gavin Bren, who’s grown five inches in the past year, surfs every day to experience and learn from different conditions.

Photo by Nate Perry

Photo by Asher Nolan

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Gavin took home another NSSA Regional Open Title in 2023 and finished the USA Surfing Prime East Series as the No. 1 ranked U14 Boy. This secured his spot on the USA Surfing Junior National team. Again, he qualified for the Rip Curl GromSearch National Finals for placing second in the qualifying event in Huntington Beach. He also had an opportunity to surf the iconic Surf Ranch in Lemoore, CA.

With competition comes setbacks, especially as you climb the ranks.

Gavin broke his elbow while skateboarding and had to sit out the GromSearch final this winter. Recovering from injuries is a hurdle any athlete encounters. It builds resiliency.

Gavin’s mother, Laura Bren, says, “Competition is really a series of moments. You’re either winning or learning and often both.”

Surfer Sam Reidy, who has been on the World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series circuit and trains with Gavin, adds, “I’ve seen Gavin mature as a human and a competitor.”

Gavin’s enthusiasm also keeps Sam on his toes when they’re in the water together. “We will run competition heats

together, which is super fun because he is a grom trying to beat me and it pushes me,” he says.

Speaking of growth, Laura says Gavin grew more than 5 inches this year, which meant three rounds of surfboards for one season and the challenge of adapting to his changing body position—what every pro surfer experiences when progressing through the years.

Despite Gavin’s track record and performance since he was still very young, the most valued aspect of surfing is the relationships—amazing connections and memories—and family time in the water with his brother, Austin, and dad, Dan Bren. Laura says 90% of Gavin’s surf life is stoked by the fun of it and 10% is contests.

That 10% requires 100% focus.

Finetuning the performance mindset to gain life perspective and balance is important, Laura says, explaining why Gavin is focused on USA Surfing while pursuing his goal to progress in the technical aspects of his surfing.

Training and strategy aside, Gavin speaks to the gut-instinct aspect of riding waves. “When I surf from my heart, I surf better,” he says. CS

Photo by Don August

Written by Joe Willey | Photography by Jill Jasuta

Authoring the

Next Chapter

FROM TEACHER TO ENTREPRENEUR TO MOTORCYCLE RACER, DAVID NESS HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL. BUT WHEN FORCED TO START ANEW LATER IN LIFE, THE CAMBRIDGE RESIDENT DEMONSTRATED HIS TRUE CHARACTER.

Life unfolds like a story. Some changes are sudden, while others creep like an approaching thunderhead. But each challenge can bring surprising opportunities. The story of best-selling author David Nees has plot twists worthy of any novel. His story continues, and the upcoming pages are as exciting as the first chapter.

David attended Ohio Wesleyan University, graduating with a degree in psychology in 1966. It was the height of the Vietnam War, and two paths were open to him—graduate school or go to war.

LITERARY MARVEL

Eastern Shore-based author David Nees has selfpublished 12 books since his debut effort, After the

GET BACK TO COMFORT

He joined President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Teacher Corps, teaching during the day and earning his master’s degree at night. After moving to Virginia, he taught in the Alexandria School System. Each year, his students matured and developed new interests, but he sensed that he was stagnating. After six years, he needed a change.

In his free time, he rode motocross and looked for ways to turn his hobby into a sustainable business. He and one of his roommates saved enough money to open a Yamaha motorcycle dealership. It was 1972 when they founded Cycle Sport in the Tysons Corner, VA area.

Running a business was consuming, and he didn’t have time to train for motocross. He met someone who liked road racing and said it was less physically demanding than motocross, so David tried it. Enjoying it and successful enough to be in the professional ranks, he raced from the mid-70s until 1985. During his racing career, he and his wife Carla had two sons.

In the late 80s—while still owning the Yamaha dealership—he started a fitness equipment business—Fitness Resource. He operated both businesses for 10 years. After selling the motorcycle dealership, David grew Fitness Resource to 27 stores around DC—and as far away as Atlanta.

A looming tax problem in Georgia and the 2008 recession forced his business into bankruptcy. During this dark time of crushing stress, he worked to repay the debt and read voraciously. A book that became a favorite was a dystopian novel about the results of a cataclysmic electromagnetic pulse. Intrigued by the idea, he created a scenario and wrote a 20-page synopsis. He sent it to his sister, an English teacher, and asked, “Does this work? She was enthusiastic and thought the draft would make a good book. With this encouragement, he began writing.

If severe joint pain is impacting your mobility and overall quality of life, Beebe Healthcare is here to offer a path to relief and recovery. Our award-winning Orthopaedic Services program specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves (musculoskeletal system). Our experienced board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons are expertly trained to perform a wide range of procedures, and have your best interests in mind from diagnosis through treatment.

to learn more about our hip and knee procedures!

Fall: Jason‘s Tale, debuted on Amazon in 2016.

LOCAL coastal

THRILLING SERIES

David Nees has established quite the following with his realistic character portrayals of post-apocalyptic life, earning thousands of positive reviews from fans on Amazon for his works.

Following the traditional path of submitting his manuscript to publishers seemed like a waste of time to an iconoclastic thinker like David, so he self-published. After the Fall: Jason‘s Tale, his first book, was released in April 2016 on Amazon. Within two weeks, it was number one in the Post-Apocalyptic and Dystopian genre.

Over the next two years, David followed with four more books. In 2018, he began writing thrillers. Payback was his first—and a success. Even though his most recent career began inauspiciously as an antidote for stress, his writing continues with the same characteristic enthusiasm and drive that launched other successful careers. In the past eight years, he has published 13 books, recently finishing his latest—The Orphan Girl

For over five decades, David’s career changes have been dramatic but always focused on people. Now, characters drive his books. The plot is imperative, but he is most interested in how the character reacts. And though he starts with an outline, every story has strayed from the original plan. Often, he wonders how he will write a character out of a desperate situation. Writing that way is an apt metaphor for David’s life. And the story keeps unfolding. CS

Insuring Confidence

LOCAL EXPERTS

ASK THE WOMEN OF NFP ANYTHING ABOUT COMMERCIAL INSURANCE IN THE HOTEL, MOTEL, RESTAURANT AND CONDO ARENA. THEY’RE EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELD AND INVOLVED COMMUNITY MEMBERS WHO GO THE EXTRA MILE FOR THEIR CLIENTS.

Written by Kristen Hampshire | Photo by Krista Valliant

For nearly two decades, Trish Walsh has served as a go-to commercial insurance educator, advocate and advisor with a focus on an always-growing market in Ocean City—hotels, motels, condominiums and restaurants.

Bringing deep knowledge of the coastal market as a longtime Eastern Shore businesswoman, Walsh says the region’s complex property insurance underwriting

requires a professional who is invested in the community and involved in legislative action and condominium associations and boards.

“We look at new laws that will be introduced and how it may affect our properties here in Ocean City,” she says of invited appointment to the board of the Community of the Maryland Legislative Action Committee (MD LAC) and the Community Associations Institute Delmarva.

“When we are reviewing clients’ insurance, we can ensure it complies with bylaws and offer the best package for their risk needs,” Walsh adds, noting that many admitted property carriers will not write policies within three-to-five miles of the coast. But this is NFP’s expertise.

“We insure more than 450 commercial condominium buildings in this area, and we work with our carriers daily, knowing which

Donna Bradford, Cheryl Tyndall, Angie Andrews, Tricia Walsh and Ellen Clayton of NFP in Ocean Pines.

are the best fit for each client based on the age of their building, construction and claims history,” Walsh says. “A lot goes into knowing which carrier is the best fit for each condominium we insure.” NFP also writes personal insurance policies as well.

Insurance 101—and Beyond

Educating clients is a passion for Walsh, who earned a BS Degree in teaching, minor in Biology from The University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown and taught in the classroom before entering the insurance arena. Her first summer locally, she was a lifeguard at Ocean Pines and worked at Shenanigan’s Irish Pub in Ocean City.

Mid-Atlantic Shop Hop

She grew up in western Pennsylvania and her father co-owned a family Irish pub, explaining the draw to her early career in hospitality. Now, this translates to an innate understanding for insuring risk across the hospitality sector and in condominium communities.

“I went to school for teaching, so I enjoy educating our boards and unit owners, and it’s rewarding when you see that light bulb go off with a board, ‘Oh, I understand now!’” she relates.

Six Women in Business

Walsh has lived in West Ocean City for the last 34 years and is deeply involved in the community, particularly at St. Mary Star of the Sea/Holy Savior Catholic Church.

Professionally, she regularly attends condo association meetings and is a partner on the front lines to her clients. “I’m very hands-on,” she says of gathering with clients on evenings, weekends and at their convenience.

“Many companies allow employees to work remotely, but I’m in the office every day and we have the experience to leverage technology with a personal touch,” she says.

VINTAGE PINK & GREEN

Walsh also serves on the Delmarva Condo Managers Association, and NFP sponsors educational expo’s for condo associations through the Condominium Association Institute Delmarva. You’ll also find Walsh attending meetings at the Ocean City Hotel Motel Restaurant Association (HMRA) and the chamber of commerce.

“When I’m not working, I’m offshore trying to outsmart a fish or two with my friends,” she says.

A point of pride for Walsh is the strong womenin-business workforce at NFP, including a female regional manager and a commercial insurance office in Ocean Pines that is staffed with all females. “We are a strong women-in-business office here in Ocean City,” she says. CS

Help your child overcome fear of the doctor

Going to the doctor can be scary for kids; it’s a place they may only visit once a year, or they remember being there when they were feeling sick or getting a vaccine. And most kids have a natural wariness of strangers and new places. Luckily, there are several things you can do to make the visit go smoothly and make it a positive experience.

Stay calm and positive

Children are very in tune with their parents’ emotions. If you remain calm and at ease, they will tend to follow your lead. It's also important to validate their feelings. Saying something like “a lot of kids are nervous or afraid of going to the doctor” can acknowledge their perspective. Try to focus on the positives and explain the benefits of regular checkups for their health if your child is old enough to understand.

Prepare in advance

Tell them one or two days ahead of time that they have an upcoming appointment. This allows time for you to talk about what they can expect, how they are feeling, and provide reassurance. Watching a video or reading a book about going to the doctor can also be helpful. Depending on your child’s age, you can offer rewards for good behavior at the visit.

Photo by Tony Weeg

Role-playing and practice

Role-playing can be a great way to familiarize your child with what will happen at the doctor’s office. Use toys or even role-play yourself to simulate a visit. Have your child take turns being the doctor and the patient. This can make the experience more predictable and less intimidating.

Bring comfort items

Allow your child to bring a favorite toy, blanket, or another comfort item to the appointment. Having something familiar and comforting can help reduce anxiety and make the environment feel safer.

Keep a routine

Make regular doctor visits part of a routine so they become a normal and expected part of life rather than a rare and stressful event. The more familiar the experience, the less frightening it will become over time.

Here are a few additional things to consider when preparing your child for their doctor’s visit:

• Be willing to advocate for their needs and feelings if they are unwilling or unable to speak for themselves.

• Avoid threats or bribes

• Be prepared with any questions or concerns you or they may have about their health.

Schedule today

TidalHealth Pediatrics in Salisbury has immediate openings. To schedule an appointment, visit tidalhealth.org/schedule or call 410-912-5785.

Embrace the power of movement

Danielle Giddins, MD

No matter your age, there are many benefits to staying active.

First, it has long-term positive impacts on the health of your cardiovascular system, which includes your heart and blood vessels. It helps strengthen your heart, lower your blood pressure and your resting heart rate, and improves blood flow to your legs and brain.

Exercise also keeps your muscles strong, which can help prevent injury and loss of function as you age, and it can help reduce and manage stress, which can improve your quality of sleep and overall happiness.

It is recommended that adults get 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) of moderate exercise per week. This can be broken down into manageable bites, such as a 15-minute walk, swim, or bike ride; a 30-minute kickboxing or aerobics class; or vigorous cleaning or yard work at your home. It is also encouraged to include some form of strength training in your routine two to three days per week, along with regular stretching to improve flexibility.

This can be overwhelming if you are not used to regular exercise or if you have physical limitations, but all movements can be modified for your ability level. If you need help getting started, consider meeting with a trainer at a gym to design a program and show you how to use equipment safely. Some neighborhoods have a gym that may be open to non-residents or consider your local YMCA for resources.

Ultimately, consistency is key, and having a workout buddy can help keep you accountable. It can also make exercising fun. Keep in mind, there are many fitness programs with apps so you can access classes and programs while at home or on the go.

Dr. Danielle Giddins has been a member of the TidalHealth family since 2008 and is boardcertified by the American Board of Family Medicine. Dr. Giddins serves as Chief Wellness Officer for TidalHealth and sees patients at TidalHealth Primary Care in Millsboro. To schedule an appointment, visit tidalhealth.org/ schedule or call 302-732-8400.

Are you ready to improve your health?

TidalHealth Adult Fitness has locations in Salisbury and Ocean Pines, Md. To learn more, call 410-912-6163.

Danielle Giddins, MD

GetWellDelmarva.com

Get Well Delmarva is your ultimate destination for reliable and trusted health information related to your physical, mental and emotional well-being. Get Well Delmarva features articles, videos and podcasts, giving you the tools you need to make informed decisions about your health.

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TidalHealth Home Scripts

TidalHealth Home Scripts 11101 Cathage Road Berlin, MD

410-543-4769

tidalhealth.org/HomeScripts

Open six days a week

Our knowledgeable pharmacists will fill your prescriptions in a matter of minutes and we offer free home delivery in the Ocean Pines area and a convenient drive-thru window.

With a large selection of over-the-counter items and monthly sales, you’ll be relying on TidalHealth Home Scripts for all your pharmacy needs. Also, consider us for all your vaccination needs including COVID-19, flu, shingles and travel vaccines, etc.

Conveniently located by the North Gate of Ocean Pines, TidalHealth Home Scripts is open Monday – Friday, 8 am to 6 pm and Saturday from 9 am to 3 pm. To fill a prescription, or arrange for free home delivery, call 410-543-4769.

All in the Family

Written by Kristen Hampshire

home

A HAPPENSTANCE PROPERTY BECAME A LEGACY PROJECT FOR A MULTI-GENERATIONAL FAMILY HOME THAT IS EQUAL PARTS PLAY AND GATHER, RELAX AND RETREAT

Photography by Stephen Cherry

OPEN CONCEPT

The home was purposefully designed so that it’s large family could gather, entertain and relax comfortably.

When Ryan and Katie Mollet stole away for a long weekend at a friend’s home on Chester River, they certainly didn’t expect to land a property that would become a waterfront retreat for the family, though it was always a dream.

While boating in Grasonville, they spotted a lot—an empty one, a rarity on this sparse strip at the confluence of the Chester River and Chesapeake Bay, across from Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge. Ryan called the listing agent the next morning, and by the time the couple was crossing the Bay Bridge to return home to Montgomery County, MD, there was a verbal agreement.

They thought, “We’ll sit on it until we’re ready to build.”

Ryan called his father, Ralph Mollet, on the drive home. They had been working in the construction industry as a team for years at M&M Builders and Contractors, based in Gaithersburg. “Don’t leave me out of the equation,” Ralph said to his son. They filled in Ryan’s sister, Melissa Mollet Schaller, on the property and she was all in, too.

Basically overnight, the property became a family affair with six adults and five children, then ranging in ages from 2 to 11 between the Mollets and Schallers, along with Katie’s father, David Bradley, president of Bradley Construction, who co-designed the house with Ryan and Ralph.

“We decided, ‘Why not build a larger family house and do it for everyone?’” says Ryan, relating how the what-if steamrolled into an all-together design/build family project and a 9,000-squarefoot, four-level legacy property, completed in six months.

Melissa adds, “It was an amazing experience and it was easy to bounce back ideas and links and decide on things together.”

It helps that they share a liking of “coastal vibe,” Melissa adds.

Katie shared, “It was fun to incorporate everyone’s ideas. We’d pour through the lookbook and say, ‘How do we like option A? What about option B?’” And Ryan agrees, “It was all very seamless and collaborative.”

The kids got into the process, too. “There was one point when they were drawing floor plans and giving us ideas,” Melissa relates. Suggestions included a built-in candy wall—“that sounded like lots of trips to the dentist!” she laughs—and of course, a rooftop pool and “puppies on the third floor.”

coastal HOME

The younger set did score a fully equipped bunk room with a kitchenette and entertainment space designed to grow with them. In fact, the entire home was imagined and executed with this purpose and a desire to instill a sense of timelessness into the overall aesthetic.

Cook, Eat, Play

A spacious open kitchen topped the list: a place to gather, entertain, prepare large family meals and an eat-in component, along with an overflow playroom that allows the kids to do their thing within eyeshot of whoever’s in the kitchen.

Throughout the home, 7¼-inch engineered white oak flooring resists cupping from waterfront moisture and stands the test of sand and river play. White shaker-style Dura Supreme cabinetry lives up to a shared desire to create a classic home that won’t look dated down the road. Resilient quartz surfaces are easy to clean, and a roomy island and adjacent dining space accommodate the whole clan. The family chose a subtle introduction of color on the island base, a seafoam tone. Ceiling beams take down the scale of this space, creating a comfortable environment while serving a purpose.

Ultimate Bunk Space

Melissa’s favorite aspect of the project was helping design the children’s bunk room. “With my dad’s drawings on a piece of paper and a very talented trim carpenter, he made it come to life,” she says, noting functional details such as top bunk rails that flip down for easy sheet changing.

Six beds include three fulls on the bottom and a trio of twins on the top, each with nautical sconces. Ample floor space allows for a roomy sectional. A kitchen area for stocking snacks and drinks allows the space to function in multiple ways for kids and guests, while also serving as a hangout they will appreciate just as much when they are teenagers and beyond.

Melissa found vibrantly repainted vintage buoys that are displayed above the firstfloor window, where there is also a table and chairs. The bunk room’s positioning above the garage was intentional, Ryan says. “The kids can be jumping around and we won’t hear them stomping from the floors above,” he points out.

coastal HOME

The Masters

Also intentional, “the masters have the best water views,” Ryan says, though exceptions might be the fourth-floor bar and recreation space, and of course, the rooftop patio with a putting green and fire pit.

Parallel master suites for Ralph and wife Linda’s adult children are exactly the same size and layout, along with sharing the same view. While they mirror each other in layout, the décor is quite different. Katie directed the design toward crisp white shiplap walls, while Melissa opted for a naturalwood detail wall as a headboard treatment. Both selected boldly patterned wallpaper for their ensuites.

Ralph and his wife have the largest suite on the third level, and an elevator rises from the garage to the top—an important feature, Ryan notes.

All told, the home has six bedrooms (two for guests) and seven bathrooms.

“All 11 of us can be in the house at the same time with space to spare and enjoy each other’s company, and we do that seamlessly,” Ralph says.

RISE AND SHINE

Primary bedrooms of the home feature spectacular water views with open-air access to decks just outside.

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coastal HOME

Coastal Americana on Tap

With boat cleat cabinet hardware and coordinates of their home’s exact location stenciled by Katie on the wood-paneled bar base, party central is designed for all ages. Vaulted ceilings and views for days lend a feeling of living on stilts right in the water. There’s a kegerator, entertainment space and a waterfront deck. A lodge-inspired chandelier hangs from the cathedral ceiling. (Ryan and Ralph hung it together.) They repeated the kitchen’s Dura Supreme cabinets in nautical navy. An American Flag backdrop and other patriotic accents make this room “coastal Americana,” Katie says.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Head over to CoastalStyleMag.com where we have so much more to show you from this waterfront home.

“We decided, ‘Why not build a larger family house and do it for everyone?’” says Ryan, relating how the what-if steamrolled into an all-together design/build family project and a 9,000square-foot, four-level legacy property, completed in six months.

More Memories to Come

Designing and building the home together along with Katie’s father was a memorymaking opportunity in itself. And now there is a place to grow and enjoy the family’s most treasured times ahead.

Melissa says, “My dad and brother built our main home, so getting to do this again with the entire family was a dream come true and everyone put their love into it.”

It really was a family affair—one that includes each generation, Katie adds. “Seeing it all come to life, the kids enjoying it, jumping around their bunk room, giggling and having fun is what it’s all about.” CS

Back row: Linda & Ralph Mollet. Middle row: Melissa Mollet Schaller & Jake Schaller, Katie & Ryan Mollet.

Front row: Barrett, Brennan & Colette Schaller, Kinley & Lachlan Mollet.

At Home on Harris Creek

A FAMILY RETREAT WITH ‘COASTAL COMFORTABLE’ MATERIALS CAN BE LIVED IN AND LOVED ON. PRETENTION NOT INCLUDED.

Written by Kristen Hampshire

by Robert Radifera, Stylish Productions

A camping chair and card table were the only furnishings on site when Carol Wheeler arrived to meet the homeowners at their Sherwood, MD, property, which is nestled on a point on Harris Creek and Dunns Cove. “The bones of the house were strong, and it was a clean canvas—and empty,” says Wheeler, interior designer at Bountiful Home in Easton.

Photography

coastal HOME

A neutral color palette allows the serene tributary surroundings to speak. Early mornings, crabbers troll the creek. Unobstructed views of the marshy preserve offer a continuous reel of wildlife sightings— eagles and osprey. The sanctuary is home of a large-scale oyster restoration.

This is what attracted the owners to the site after a couple of years of hunting for an Eastern Shore escape. The home sits on a former farm with protected shoreline, and their property includes about eight acres of land with an expansive vegetable garden and mature fig and persimmon trees.

Most of all, there’s plenty of quiet.

“We like our privacy,” says Bev, relating that the retreat is for extended family, which includes three granddaughters. Given the young audience, the priority was an easygoing aesthetic with materials that can withstand wear and tear.

Bev says the goal was to accomplish “coastal and comfortable.”

“I didn’t want it to look totally designed,” she adds. “We wanted a homey feel.”

The result is more thoughtful than curated.

Wheeler says, “They wanted a very functional house that was not pretentious and very welcoming. We created a family-friendly place you don’t have to worry about.”

A Blank Canvas

After purchasing the property in 2019, the couple took on a few interior projects, though an appealing aspect of the home was its nearly ready-to-go status. It had been meticulously cared for. However, some kitchen renovations included a travertine backsplash that warms up the range/hood space and quartzite surfaces throughout. No need to touch the oak hardwood floors. With some paint updates, the property was prepared for furnishing and final touches.

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coastal HOME

The process evolved over a five-year period, which was mutually beneficial for the couple and Wheeler, who became innately familiar with their taste. Ultimately, a friendship emerged, Bev says. “I could call Carol and say, ‘We need a piece over here,’ or, ‘Can we change that over there,’ and she made helpful recommendations and understood what we were looking for,” she relates.

Room by Room

Furniture selections, accessories, lighting and custom pieces were specified one room at a time. The couple prioritized working with local craftspeople, resulting in special pieces such as the curly maple dining room set by McMartin & Beggins. An oyster fixture by Currey & Company punctuates the space.

Sparse window treatments throughout the home were an intentional move.

“We did not want to take away from the views so the understated drapery is designed to just frame the windows,” Wheeler explains.

Bathing-Suit Friendly

After moving into the home, the couple partnered with architect Charles Goebel and Gary Smith Builders to construct an airy pool house with vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace, walls of windows and a retractable glass door that allows the floor plan to roll right into the outdoors. It doubles as a fully equipped guest house with a kitchen space, full bath and bedroom, and inviting gathering space.

Wheeler specified indoor-outdoor furniture that is “friendly for wet bathing suits.” A sky-blue beadboard ceiling complements water views and adds interest to otherwise clean, white walls.

And true to Bev’s goal to be coastal and comfy, the welcoming pool house’s generous table-and-chairs and cozy sitting area offer a relaxing arrangement.

COASTAL AND COMFORTABLE

The couple prioritized working with local craftspeople, resulting in a home filled with special pieces.

Look Here, See Over There

The main home’s living area flows into the dining room and open kitchen, and Wheeler considered vantage points from these spaces when sourcing furnishings. For example, a pair of swivel chairs square off a conversation space that includes two sofas situated in an L-shape. Wheeler purposely selected these so the family could swing one way for views outdoors and the other to see the adjacent fireplace. Versatile rope-like ottomans can serve as footrests, seats or side tables.

Decidedly Local

Pieces such as a driftwood console in the foyer and artwork throughout the home add character, and Bev says they were intentional about visiting local galleries and finding pieces that reflect the region.

Heading into a three-week rotation where the couple will host each granddaughter for “her own week” at the home, Bev expresses their gratitude for a special family spot where they will make memories together. She says simply, “It just really works.” CS

The Center of Design

INSPIRATION, EXPERTISE AND CONVENIENCE ALL UNDER ONE ROOF AT DELMARVA DESIGN CENTER

When it comes to home interiors, nothing helps produce a superior result than the combination of expertise in kitchen cabinetry, countertops and tile, appliances and home flooring. Couple that with excellent connections within the industry in all five areas, and you have the Delmarva Design Center

The Delmarva Design Center was created to support homebuilders, remodeling contractors and homeowners looking for the convenience of making the most important home design selections under one roof. We are a design center with years of experience and tens of thousands of projects to our credit. Each project we complete puts us in a better position to support our next opportunity.

Great designs start with great inspiration.

Delmarva Design Center

Back: Glenn Martin, Eric Meck, Joe Janela and Steve Cooper. Not Pictured: Christina Childers and Matt Mydlarz.

Front: Bill Gorsuch, Nicole Raymond, Chris Hines, Kathleen Crespo, Corey Johnson and Matt Craig.

Chris Eschenburg

Photography by Svetlana Leahy

Strong Foundation

WITH TWO DECADES OF DESIGN-BUILD EXPERIENCE TO HIS CREDIT, CHRIS ESCHENBURG DELIVERS EXPERT KNOWLEDGE AND SUPERIOR CRAFTSMANSHIP TO CLIENTS OF CONSTRUCTION DELMARVA

Specializing in completing a wide array of construction and home improvement projects, Construction Delmarva brings a team comprised with expert knowledge and superior craftsmanship to every job site. Founded and led by Berlin native Chris Eschenberg, Construction Delmarva specializes in all aspects of home construction, from design-build to renovations and proudly serves residents and second homeowners for their construction needs in Worcester County.

The company was built on a foundation that prioritizes quality over shortcuts to build oneof-a-kind custom residences with exceptional architectural flair and striking exterior details, like handcrafted cedar shake elements, as an example.

“We are a small, boutique custom home builder,” Chris says. “Our focus is on building a limited number of homes each year, allowing us to prioritize quality and client relationships over standardization and expedience. Our goal is to ensure our clients have a less stressful and more rewarding experience throughout the building process.

“My company’s team comprises highly skilled professional subcontractors with extensive experience who take great pride in delivering high-quality work,” he continued.

With more than 100 projects completed, Construction Delmarva has accumulated a wealth of experience during its 20 years in business. As such, Chris is keenly aware of the questions, challenges and potential pitfalls home building clients face—and

Scan to see Construction Delmarva’s recent projects

offers this important advice to consider: “When it comes to building a new home, the most crucial advice I can offer is to carefully choose a builder with whom you feel at ease,” Chris says. “Look for a builder with a strong reputation, extensive experience and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.”

Construction, as his company’s name states, is Chris’ life’s work—and he couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“Building homes is more than just a job for me—it’s a passion. My goal is to create homes that stand as a lasting legacy.” CS

CONSTRUCTION DELMARVA 443-614-3574 • ConstructionDelmarva.com

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Surf House, New Rules

Written

A BOLD, NEW CONCEPT IS BENDING CLASSIC CRAFTSMANSHIP TO RESHAPE COASTAL HOMES INTO VIBRANT AND SOULFUL LIVING ENVIRONMENTS THAT ARE MOVE-IN READY

Walking into a Surf House space, “people just smile,” says Matt Covell, owner of Structure in Bethesda, who grew up spending summers on 89th Street in Ocean City.

Living on beach time ultimately inspired a coastal venture called Surf House, a bold concept infusing a fresh and fun offering of properties along the Eastern Shore.

Surf House purchases existing beach homes and transforms them through highly stylized renovation projects that are artful, soulful and simply relaxing to exist in. By giving new life to old bones, Surf House renews the vibrancy of long-loved family homes to live on for the next generation.

IT’S A VIBE

“People are turned on by the idea of making something old new again and doing it in a way that is vibrant, fun and embraces the beach,” says Surf House owner Matt Covell.

by Kristen Hampshire

Photography by Svetlana Leahy

coastal HOME

“People are turned on by the idea of making something old new again and doing it in a way that is vibrant, fun and embraces the beach,” Matt says. “It’s an opportunity to access a higher level of sophistication and aesthetic but maintain the whimsy and accessibility of living on the beach. And the best part is: It’s turnkey.”

Surf House properties are for sale or for rent complete with premium furnishings, original artwork, curated décor and thoughtful detail. Not a corner of these homes was overlooked, not a single surface brushed aside when reinventing every space.

But while curated, Surf House properties represent creativity unleashed.

It’s a truly livable experience and true to place.

“There is a vibe to it,” Matt agrees, relating that the ultimate validation that Surf House is filling a much-desired untapped niche along the coast is the way people respond upon entering one of the homes. “What you hope for as a builder and designer is capturing a level of excitement, and the feedback from people has been so positive and immediate — ‘That’s so cool!’”

LIVING IN ART

An all-in energy and passion for living with art shapes the way Surf House approaches every surface in its collaboration with local artist Evan Fitzgerald and other local partners that create custom furnishings.

The fresh, funky-modern and equally complex artwork in Surf Houses is fully integrated into the interior design. An example is a focal point piece in the main living area that opens into the dining space and kitchen. An arch-shaped splash of pink paint was brushed to the wall and over window frames and trim. “I held up a piece of white oak plywood for this application and painted the pink arch over it, then gave it to Evan to take back to his studio,” Matt says of the process.

So, the art piece started as a white oak plywood base (matching the floors) hung on a blank wall, where Matt splashed the flamingo accent color. The wood piece became Evan’s canvas, removed from the wall and hauled to the studio so he could create the painting and return it to a cohesive stage for the work.

Similarly, Matt found a vintage skateboard photo he blew up to position as a bedroom headboard. The artwork connects to the space with a tapered ribbon of pink paint that swoops diagonally from a high corner, crossing the photograph’s frame to draw it in, and landing caddy-corner past the bedframe.

“The idea is you are living with the art,” Matt says.

TRIM TABS, MODERN STYLE

“Trim detail is second to none and completely unique in the Surf House aesthetic,” says Matt, pointing to ribbed detail throughout the house.

The main body of the home’s ceiling structure offered an avenue for running lanes of trim down the center that fan out and fall to the floor, encasing the fireplace. “It reads well because the vaulted ceiling flattens in the middle, so we were scratching our heads,” Matt relates. “Do we install faux beams? Do we do paneling detail? Ultimately, we decided on this more linear look.”

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HOME

Matt’s architectural foundation stems from traditional construction with characteristic paneling. “As I have evolved in my career, this has developed into something much more modern and unique,” he says.

As a result, this Surf House’s millwork displays rich craftsmanship with playful sophistication.

Beadboard treatment scales a vaulted ceiling connecting a deck space equipped with a passthrough bar and seating for indoor-outdoor access to the kitchen. The master suite includes a variation of the living room’s linear trim effect, arching from floor, across the space’s head room and waterfalling down behind the bed.

“It acts as a continuous headboard for the bed creating a huge canopy effect,” Matt describes.

ALWAYS A STORY

Each tabletop conversation piece tells a story and has a past—a reclaimed fishing reel spool, a winking Popeye bobble-like figure, dock line thoughtfully arranged into a basket form. These aren’t found pieces designed for staging. They stay with the home.

Matt points out the vintage swim fins he collected with a headboard in mind. They hang from a steel pipe like a beachy mobile. These were designed for body boarding, he points out.

Surfboard accents are bold. A pink-painted plank with brushes of black that appear as a half-eye looks into the hallway gallery. The boards are also subtle and serene. In the master, a lotus assemblage of five boards in ivory framed in black that present above a slider to a deck overlooking the water in Ocean Pines. Matt says, “It’s bohemian funky while still being sophisticated and classy. Surf House is an opportunity to bring high-quality and coollooking finishes to the Eastern Shore’s beach houses. CS

Written by Kristen Hampshire I Photography by Brian Wetzel I Styling by Kristi Hunter

Contemporary Outcomes

LAYERS OF TEXTURE AND THOUGHTFUL DETAILS IN THIS CUSTOM BETHANY BEACH HOME

CREATE A SERENE ATMOSPHERE THAT CAPITALIZES ON THE PROPERTY’S SURROUNDINGS

A new build on Bethany Beach offered a blank canvas for a coastal-modern interior that is “fresh yet serene,” and loaded with custom detail designed by C&E Furniture + Design’s Katie Winnington, who partnered with the owners to explore an extensive menu of options for furnishings, accessories, materials and finishes.

“This collaboration allowed us to create a unique and personalized design that perfectly matched their vision,” she says, noting that the project is one of the firm’s most contemporary outcomes. “It gave us a chance to explore and push modern design trends more than we usually do,” Winnington relates.

From Arabescato marble countertops in the kitchen to Shou Sugi Ban wood walls in a bedroom, Winnington specified high interest yet organic selections to accomplish a thoughtful retreat, exclusively sourcing furniture from C&E’s Fenwick showroom. She says, “By curating our collection in-house, we ensure that every element contributes to creating spaces that are inviting and distinctive.”

A WELL-BALANCED KITCHEN

Rich, custom wood cabinetry with sleek, linear hardware complements dramatic veining in the Arabescato marble—a surface swirling with soft whites and dusty grays. “This combination not only enhances the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal but also creates a balanced atmosphere,” Winnington says.

A range hood crafted from Limestone Venetian plaster by Katie Dubree Designs offers subtle texture and a clean finish. Meanwhile, a generous island equipped with seating and plenty of room for prep houses a sink. It runs parallel to the kitchen’s cooking space with ovens to deliver a user-friendly galley-style layout for preparing meals and dining with guests.

An adjacent pantry can be closed off from the kitchen with a glass pocket door with black metal gridding. “This is one of those small details that make a big impact,” Winnington says. “It adds a lovely design element to the kitchen while also providing practical functionality for the pantry.”

WALLS OF INTEREST

Employing a Japanese technique called Shou Sugi Ban that involves charring wood to achieve a natural charcoal finish adds depth and interest to the master bedroom walls. The wood was hand-burned on site, Winnington says, “and the resulting texture and character truly make this room stand out.”

The Sugi wood juxtaposes white oak slat ceilings and creates visual contrast.

The ensuite spa bathroom is a serene retreat, Winnington says. Custom floating cabinetry with a pronounced wood grain shows off elegant gold hardware. A herringbone tile pattern creates a chevron backdrop running all the way up to the ceiling. Gold accents carry into the curbless shower in the hardware and fixtures.

STYLE MEETS SENSIBILITY

C&E embraces black trim as an accent to accomplish a “sharp, bold look” with a modern edge, Winnington says, specifically pointing to the dining room floor-to-ceiling windows. “Despite the contemporary touch, these windows maintain their functionality with traditional open-and-close mechanisms, ensuring practicality alongside style,” Winnington says.

As with all rooms in the home, this space was furnished from the C&E showroom, where Winnington helped the owners select a statement table with two pillar legs that resemble tree trunks and basket-weave seating— an organic touch with clean-lined black accents that complement the windows.

SUBTLE SOPHISTICATION

A thoughtful furniture layout promotes gathering and offers various conversation spaces, flowing seamlessly into outdoor living spaces. Every view was considered. Choosing neutral camel, taupe, cream and earthen hues for furnishings and accents such as pillows allows all of the artisan materials selected throughout the home to speak.

Across the board, Winnington says the team directed a great deal of attention toward curating pieces that “harmonize seamlessly with the overall design vision.”

Overall, Winnington says, “We loved collaborating with the clients to bring their vision to life and create a home that’s truly one of a kind.” CS

“The texture of the herringbone tile makes this primary bathroom a showstopper, turning the space into a place that feels truly special and luxurious.”

Winnington says the texture of the herringbone tile turns the space into a place that feels truly special and luxurious.

SERENE RETREAT

Coastal Living At Pot-Nets

WITH ITS MILES OF PRIVATE, PRISTINE BEACHES AND AMENITIES GALORE, THE DESIRABLE COLLECTION OF POT-NETS COMMUNITIES OFFERS RESIDENTS AND VISITORS THE BEST IN BAY LIVING IN DELAWARE

Photography by Krista Valliant

If you ever dreamed of exclusive bay living with miles of waterfront, private beaches and amenities galore—then the pristine and paradise-like neighborhoods of Pot-Nets are for you.

Nestled along the waters of Long Neck, DE, Pot-Nets has offered the best of bay living on the Indian River Bay and Rehoboth Bay for more than 50 years.

The coastal lifestyle is in full effect at its six waterfront communities that includes crabbing, fishing piers and over 1,200 boat slips for a maritime experience like no other. And when you consider its recreational community amenities— including pools, tennis courts, parks and playgrounds— you’ll see why our PotNets communities are perfect for anyone seeking a lifetime of family memories in Sussex County.

At Pot-Nets, your dream vacation home is more attainable than you ever thought it could be. Its manufactured homes are a fraction of the cost of other coastal homes in the area, allowing you and your family to enjoy the quintessential waterfront lifestyle for an incredible value.

Pot-Nets communities are highly desirable for residents and visitors alike.

“I love Pot-Nets! I am so glad I live here,” resident Joan shared. “Come down for yourself, you will never want to leave!”

“Our place was very beautiful, and the community was gorgeous,” says Alicia, a recent vacation rental guest. “I would definitely stay there again.”

Just take a look at the list of Pot-Nets community amenities—and it’s easy to see why they feel this way.

Private Bay Beaches

Secluded bay beaches in Pot-Nets Bayside and Seaside allow residents and their guests to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the water without ever having to leave the community.

Pot-Nets’ private bay beaches offer a relaxing reprieve for residents to escape the beach crowds and enjoy our coastal atmosphere.

coastal HOME

Nearly Five Miles of Waterfront Pot-Nets communities boast easy access to the Indian River and Rehoboth Bays with some of the best fishing, boating and crabbing on the East Coast—all conveniently located near Rehoboth Beach and Lewes and minutes from the Atlantic Ocean by boat.

Bait and Tackle Stores

For the fisherman in you, Pot-Nets has conveniently located bait and tackle stores so you can fish and crab to your heart’s content in the Delaware bays.

Recreation Abounds

From tennis courts, a baseball diamond, horseshoe pits, basketball courts and shuffleboard, plus a host of walking paths, there’s fun and enjoyment to be had around every corner at Pot-Nets communities.

Safe and Secure

The exclusive feel of its communities is bolstered by gatehouses, 24-hour courtesy patrol and private, well-lit roads, allowing residents and guests to comfortably spend time in their Pot-Nets homes.

Paradise Island

Cool off with a refreshing cocktail at Paradise Island, located in Pot-Nets Bayside—it’s waterfront dining and entertainment at its best on the Indian River Bay. Paradise Island is a destination for seekers of all things fun in the sun and offers traditional American cuisine and hosts happy hours, live entertainment and boat slips for those coming by water.

Five Swimming Pools

Pot-Nets’ pools ensure that the summer fun doesn’t end when you leave the beach or bay.

Playgrounds, Fountains and Dog Parks

Pot-Nets is all about family fun, and that’s why they’ve included many family-friendly amenities within its communities. Various playgrounds, fountains and dog parks ensure that every family member enjoys all that Pot-Nets has to offer.

One With Nature

It’s evident that there was careful planning with respect to preserving the natural beauty of the Delmarva Peninsula at Pot-Nets. Its conservation areas, nature trails, freshwater ponds and lakes provide residents the opportunity to fully enjoy the beautiful southern Delaware environment. CS

flavors

Embracing Exploration

Photography by Jill Jasuta

PHILIP BERNOT, WINE DIRECTOR AT WISHING WELL LIQUORS IN EASTON, JOINS THE COASTAL STYLE TEAM TO SHARE TASTING NOTES ABOUT INTERESTING WINE

Many people like to drink red wine all year ‘round, to which I say “great!” I like red wine in the summer. I like white, and rosé, too. You should always drink what makes you happy.

The summer is a good time to venture off the beaten path of what you may usually drink, but not all reds are created equal for summertime sipping. There are many more options than you might think in wine of all colors, and if exploring different types of wine from different places around the world isn’t the point of wine, I’m not sure what is.

I like lighter bodied reds that are aromatic and non-fatiguing. That steakhouse Cabernet Sauvignon definitely has its place—the steakhouse. But for lighter meals, boat rides, dock parties, and enjoying the bounty of coastal living, something fresher, brighter, and lighter makes sense. Here are three wines I love for summer style:

That steakhouse Cabernet Sauvignon definitely has its place— the steakhouse. But for lighter meals, boat rides, dock parties, and enjoying the bounty of coastal living, something fresher, brighter, and lighter makes sense.

Clos Fornelli Corse

La Robe D’Ange Rouge 2022, Corsica, France

Talk about captivating aroma! It’s almost too hard to believe that grape juice could create something so exotic and floral. Clos Fornelli is made from everyone’s favorite grape, Sciaccarellu, and please don’t rely on me for a proper pronunciation on that.

Sciaccarellu is a grape of Italian heritage, which is true of most of Corsica’s wine grapes. On the mainland of Italy Sciaccarellu is known as Mammolo. Tuscany is where mostly Mammolo is found, it is used in blending to make Chianti to accentuate aromatics. In the case of Clos Fornelli, the aromatics don’t need more accentuation.

Beyond the beyond-captivating nose, Clos Fornelli Rouge has a luscious medium body and engaging sweet/tart fruit flavors. It was very tempting to think this wine would be an ideal candidate for drinking chilled, but an alarm went off in my head that said it wasn’t going to work. I experimented, trying the wine about five degrees cooler than room temp, and it only served to mute the floral aroma and tighten the fruit on the palate. That’s good news if you are sitting on the dock and taking in the sunset.

That’s right, move in anytime during the next 60 days, and begin enjoying everything the John B. Parsons Boutique Assisted Living Community has to offer. We offer assisted living and memory care services in an elegant Victorian setting. Our community is designed to promote just that: community. We also offer memory care and physical therapy. Let our family take care of yours— just as we have for the past 50 years!

(410) 742-1432 to schedule your tour and take advantage of our summer special.

coastal FLAVORS

Beaujolais ‘Cuvée Louis Vieilles Vignes’ 2020, Jacques Dépagneux, Burgundy, France

A proper Beaujolais is close to my perfect wine—fresh, refreshing, quaffable, affordable. Unfortunately most consumers have never had a proper Beuajolais, and that’s a pity.

At its best, Beaujolais is the best. Not the most impressive, certainly not the most expensive, but definitely the most fun. A large percentage of American wine buyers have only experienced Beaujolais wine from the Nouveau craze some decades ago. While those waiter races were fun, I guess, the typical Nouveau Beuajolais of the 1980’s has little to do with today’s Beaujolais wines.

Jacques Dépagneux Cuvée Louis Vieilles Vignes is both a classic wine and an excellent value. Chocked full of Gamay grape goodness, the bright red fruit flavors dance on the palate easily, never misstepping, to a clean and vibrant finish. It is such a welcome relief in a world of over-made wines to taste something this lively. This wine is an excellent choice for light snacks, cheese, and cured meats, and most especially conversation. If you only know Pinot Noir, think about the old vine Beaujolais instead. Most Pinot Noir at fifteen bucks isn’t even in the same league as this bottle for crisp drinkability.

Cantina del Pino Barbaresco 2019, Piedmont, Italy

A lot people know Barolo wine from the Piedmont region of Italy, but not as many are familiar with Barbaresco—a wine made in the same general place, with exactly the same grape (Nebbiolo), but is often more enjoyable to drink young and not as dependent on cellar aging.

At its best, whether Barolo, Barbaresco or some of the very eclectic regions in northern Piedmont, Nebbiolo is definitely one of the great red wine grapes of the world. Nebbiolo is aromatic and elegant; a proper Barolo is not a blockbuster wine in the vein of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. The weathered brick color and acid/fruit tension of good Nebbiolo is closer in character to Pinot Noir than Cabernet, though definitely not the same as either.

If you do know Barbaresco, congratulations, and you may know the historic Cantina del Pino producer. The Vacca family has been working the vines at Cantina del Pino since the 1920’s, making it one of the oldest estates in Barbaresco. The family was one of the original members of the esteemed cooperative Produtorri del Barbaresco, but dropped out to focus on estate bottling their wines in 1997.

Nothing is quite like a really good Nebbiolo. The dried rose aromas, the fresh and succulent fruit that meets the astringent and palate cleansing tannins that are more from grape skins than wood barrels, and that magical brick/earthenware color that is so pretty to the eye if you prize balance and freshness over maximum extraction. Cantina del Pino always delivers an outstanding Nebbiolo experience, and this 2019 Barbaresco is one of my favorite efforts from them. CS

Nautical Necessities

MIXOLOGIST SEAN NORRIS HITS THE OPEN WATER TO SHARE A SUMMER-INFUSED, PREMADE COCKTAIL THAT’S AS ACCESSIBLE AS IT IS DELICIOUS

Photography by Heartbeat Branding Co.

The conditions on the water can often make it much more difficult to mix a good drink without the stability and space of a home setting. This is where learning to properly pre-batch cocktails gives us the freedom to enjoy our favorite drink in almost any setting.

Iwill always remember the moments when the beach changed from a place that I simply lived to the place that I now proudly call home

Almost all of them were on the water, surrounded by close friends, with a cold drink in hand. Beer, wine, seltzers and the usual—simple. But naturally, my mind gravitated toward the cocktails I love. Who says it’s too much work to have a solid tipple on the bay?

If you are like me, you absolutely love mixing fantastic cocktails for your friends, but occasionally, the circumstances may not be ideal for the creation you have in mind. I recently joined some friends on their yacht for a cruise on the bay, and it was a perfect opportunity to batch some of my favorites. The conditions on the water can often make it much more difficult to mix a good drink without the stability and space of a home setting. This is where learning to properly pre-batch cocktails gives us the freedom to enjoy our favorite drink in almost any setting. If you have a boat—or like me, good friends with a boat— this is a great way to practice prepping your recipes. Your friends will thank you, too, when you surprise them with a ready-to-go bottle of their favorite cocktail while you’re on the water.

Let’s make a batch of one of my favorite Tiki cocktails—the Mai-Tai.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 liter bottles (with a solid seal!)

1 liter measuring cup

Jigger

Funnel

Citrus press

Basic math skills

I want to emphasize the importance of basic math skills here—it removes guesswork, and most importantly, it eliminates waste. The goal is to take a single recipe that you enjoy, and scale it up into a larger portion (in this case, 1 liter).

The single portion recipe looks like this:

2 oz Appleton Estate 12 Year Aged Rum

1/2 oz Dry Curacao or Cointreau

3/4 oz Fresh lime juice

1/2 oz Orgeat

1/4 oz Demerara Simple (2:1)

Total Volume: 4 oz

Simple enough. But we want to scale this up to exactly 1 liter (which is about 34 ounces). What we need to do is find our conversion factor so we can simply measure out each ingredient and pour it directly into our batch bottle. This number also tells you exactly how many cocktails you will get out of one batch. The best part: the math takes less than five minutes to work out.

Here

are the key

steps:

Conversion Factor = 34 oz / Single Recipe Volume

The first step is to divide 34 ounces by the total volume of the single Mai-Tai recipe, which is 4 ounces. Here’s what that looks like: 34 oz / 4 oz = 8.5. Alas, our Conversion Factor is 8.5. Now, we simply multiply each ingredient by 8.5.

Ingredients

17 oz Appleton Estate 12 Year Aged Rum

4 1/4 oz Dry Curacao or Cointreau

6 1/4 oz Fresh lime juice

4 1/4 oz Orgeat

2 oz Demerara simple (2:1)

Total Volume: 34 oz or 1 liter

Instructions

Shake the bottle to mix ingredients, and then let it chill in a cooler with ice for at least an hour. Pack mint sprigs and lime wedges as garnish. When you’re ready to serve, just pull from the cooler, shake and pour over ice. You’ll also be happy to know that you can apply this formula to virtually any cocktail that you love. Try batching out several for Fourth of July weekend and catch the fireworks on the water—that’s where I’ll be! Perhaps I’ll see you on the bay? Cheers! CS

Recipe Notes

• My measures for the lime juice and simple are slightly off, because I rounded. If you get a figure with a longer decimal, simply round down to the nearest quarter decimal.

• Acids tend to have a more potent effect in batches. Start with slightly less lime juice than the total and slowly add more to taste.

Sean Norris owns and operates Limbo Mixology, specializing in boutique private events, classes, commercial bar and consultation. Limbo Mixology also provides an in-home bar consulting service, The Bar Tailor, which focuses on optimizing the home bar experience with the unique needs of each client in mind. In addition to recipes, Sean will be covering a wide variety of topics in each issue, including bar tools, mixing techniques, where to drink, bar setup and tips, current trends and much more. Visit limbomixology.com and follow Sean on Instagram @limbomixology. Read his complete bio at CoastalStyleMag.com.

Seasoned for Success

A

GIFT

TO PURSUE

A PASSION

DURING

COVID HAS CAUGHT FIRE AND QUICKLY GROWN INTO AN AWARDWINNING BUSINESS FOR NICOLE AND RYAN STEVENSON

Written by Joe Willey | Photography by Marci Ryan

There is nothing accidental about running a successful business. But how a business begins may be a different story. Shore Smoke Seasonings began unexpectedly with a humble desire, some compliments, and even an unwanted situation that became a life-changing opportunity. With tenacity, Ryan and Nicole Stevenson have turned what they thought would be a hobby into a thriving business with a loyal following and a plan to grow.

Ryan’s hidden but impressive skill at blending seasonings began when he and Nicole were newly married. Ryan earned a job promotion, and the two wanted to celebrate by buying steaks to cook at home. They were on a lean budget and had no extra money to spend on seasonings, so Nicole suggested Ryan create something from what they had in the cabinet. He did. That seasoning, created in 2013, is called Game Day. Now, it is Shore Smoke Seasonings’ number one blend—impressive for using only spices on hand.

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE

The Stevenson’s have turned their love of making seasonings into a recognizable brand seemingly overnight.

NORTH AND SOUTH

Shore Smoke Seasonings can be found up and down the East Coast, including at Piggly Wiggly stores in North Carolina.

Ryan enjoyed cooking and had been making seasonings for seven years when, during COVID lockdowns in 2020, his work in cyber security paused for six months. Though still employed, he had a lot of downtime. Nicole encouraged him to consider starting a business. The official birth of Shore Smoke Seasonings was May 12, 2020—when Nicole gave Ryan a business license on his birthday. It is no wonder Ryan calls Nicole the “heartbeat” of the business.

First, there were posts on a Facebook page. Then, Ryan drove to the homes of 50-60 people, giving seasoning samples to try. He was product testing. One was the home of Paul and Gina Seibert. Gina enjoyed cooking and enthusiastically tried the seasonings. Both liked Ryan and Nicole and wanted to help them and their young business succeed. Paul became the company’s sales director and is passionate about its success.

As well as providing seasonings for awardwinning cooks, the company also wins awards for its delicious flavor profiles. Shore Smoke Seasonings was a winner in the prestigious Scovie Awards in 2023. When contacted by the competition, a shocked Ryan was told Shore Smoke Seasonings had won in seven out of 10 categories—it was the first year he entered.

Shore Smoke Seasonings continues to grow. As well as on the company’s website, the seasonings are available at Ace Hardware and Food Lion stores in Maryland and Delaware, and North Carolina Piggly Wiggly stores.

Ryan is quick to give Paul and Gina acknowledgment and thanks for their support. The team is beginning the Best Bite Awards for professional cooks and the unsung heroes of Shore Smoke Seasonings—backyard cooks who enjoy food, family, and flavor. The Shore Smoke Grill, a new food truck experience, will roll out this summer.

Though Shore Smoke Seasonings may have begun unexpectedly, the hard work needed to build a business is intentional. But no one involved with the company thinks work is a burden. When there is support from a community of cooks who have become patrons and friends, running a business isn’t bland; it is full of flavor. CS

Plan to Attend the Inaugural Delaware Seafood Festival!

After selling seasonings at festivals along the East Coast, Ryan and Nicole looked for a seafood festival in their home state but couldn’t find one. Ryan and Nicole were not the only ones who thought it was a good idea. After creating a Facebook page to gauge interest, 15,000 people, in only two weeks, gave them their enthusiastic approval and showed immediate interest.

With community support, Shore Smoke Seasonings organized the new annual Delaware Seafood Festival to celebrate seafood and small businesses. The festival features many vendors and sponsors with stories similar to Shore Smoke Seasonings. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be donated to the American Legion, local Little League, and other charitable organizations.

The Delaware Seafood Festival is affordable for everyone. General admission tickets are only five dollars per person, and kids under 12 are free.

Saturday, August 10

American Legion Post 28

26467 John J. Williams Hwy., Millsboro

10 a.m. -7 p.m.

For more information, visit: shoresmokeseasonings.com/event/ 1st-annual-delaware-seafood-festival/

Thank you for your continued support!

Woody’s Dewey Beach has been serving the best crab cakes and burgers at the beach since 2009.

Located in the heart of Dewey Beach, our friendly staff provides great service and award-winning food in a fun, friendly atmosphere.

He’s Spicin’

Things Up

ENTREPRENEUR AND CHEF JAKE FITZSIMMONS IS MAKING A NAME FOR HIMSELF WITH HIS POPULAR TOMAHAWK JIM’S SEASONING BRAND

Photography by Marci Ryan

Uniquely Beautiful

Jake Fitzsimmons is a man on a mission. Driven to be the very best at whatever he does, the 25-year-old Pasadena, MD native moved to the Shore seven years ago to attend Salisbury University. Simultaneously, he has worked as a kitchen manager at Hooper’s Crab House in West Ocean City. After graduating in just three years, he founded the Tomahawk Jim’s Seasoning brand, which today, is one of the fastest growing seasoning companies on the East Coast. Jake’s creations are available in about 150 locations, including every Food Lion in Maryland and Delaware, the Grocery Outlet and numerous other independent grocers and small businesses.

In what follows, Jake shares some of his signature recipes, which are perfect for summer, and include his various spices and blends.

Caramelized Salmon

Ingredients

8 oz fresh salmon

2 Tbsp Tomahawk Jim’s Brown Sugar Rub

1 Tbsp butter

1 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Add olive oil to a skillet on medium heat. Pat salmon into brown sugar rub, completely covering all sides. Place salmon into hot skillet, letting the face down side sear for about 30-60 seconds. Keep in mind that the brown sugar rub will burn if over 350°, so it is important to flip it when it gets to the sweet spot of caramelization.

After flipping, sear the other side the same way, then transfer the fish to a baking sheet. Place the butter chip on top of the salmon to cook into the meat. Place in the oven at 350°. Cook until the meat begins to flake at the touch. Best served with grilled asparagus, roasted Brussels sprouts or over a salad.

Smoked Ribs

WITH TOMAHAWK JIM’S CRACKED PEPPER SWEET ‘N’ HEAT

Ingredients

1 rack of baby back ribs

Yellow mustard

Apple juice

Apple cider vinegar

Tomahawk Jim’s Cracked Pepper Sweet ‘n’ Heat Cherry Coke

Instructions for Oven

Lather every side of ribs with yellow mustard as the binding agent for the seasoning.

Generously sprinkle Cracked Pepper Sweet ‘n’ Heat on all sides of the ribs, covering them entirely. Place ribs on the rack of the smoker at 250°, uncovered.

After a half hour, begin spraying Cherry Coke from a spray bottle onto the ribs, repeating every half hour. Repeat this action until the ribs have cooked for 3 hours.

After 3 hours, remove the ribs from the smoker and put them into a deep dish or foil tray. Add the vinegar, apple juice, and remaining Cherry Coke into the dish at a 1:1:1 ratio, so that the ribs are not submerged, but so that the bottom of the tray is completely covered. Place back on the smoker or in the oven at 250° for about another hour.

After this, remove the ribs from the pan and lather each side with a BBQ sauce of your choice and place back on the smoker or oven for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to cook into the meat. Now enjoy your fall-offthe-bone ribs!

CAPE MEDICAL GROUP

Maryland Crab Cakes

WITH TOMAHAWK JIM’S CHESAPEAKE BAY SPICE

Ingredients

1 large egg

1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

11/2 tsp Tomahawk Jim’s Chesapeake Bay Spice

1 tsp fresh lemon juice, plus more for serving

1 lb fresh Maryland jumbo lump crab meat

2/3 cup panko bread crumbs

2 Tbsp butter

2 Tbsp white wine

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, gently combine egg, crab meat, parsley, lemon juice, spice and bread crumbs, being careful not to break up any of the meat. Once combined, gently form mixture into 4-5 oz crab cakes. Top with butter, wine and additional Chesapeake Bay Spice and bake in the oven at 375 until golden brown. Serve with a lemon.

Granny Slappin’ Chicken Bowl

TOMAHAWK JIM’S GRANNY SLAPPIN’ GOOD

SPICE

Ingredients

7 oz chicken breast

1 Tbsp Granny Slappin’ Good Spice

1 Tbsp melted butter

1 Tbsp roasted corn

1 Tbsp pico de gallo

½ avocado

1 pinch cilantro

1 cup rice

1 lime

2 Tbsp sour cream

1 tsp hot sauce

1 pinch sugar

1 tsp water

Instructions

Start by butterflying the chicken breast and generously seasoning both sides. Place chicken on the grill or in a pan with butter, simmering over medium heat (if grilling, baste both sides with butter while cooking). It is important to add butter as you go to help keep the chicken moist and add more flavor. When cooked, cut into strips.

In a bowl, combine cooked rice, roasted corn, pico de gallo and mix together. Lay chicken breast strips over top of the rice mixture. Squeeze half a lime in a bowl, using the other half for presentation. Slice half of an avocado and neatly spread for a great presentation. In a side dish, combine sour cream, hot sauce, sugar, water and 1/2 Tbsp of Granny Slappin’ Good Spice. Mix together until you have a smooth crema. You may need to add a bit more water to get the consistency right, being careful not to water it down too much. Top with crema and cilantro and enjoy!

Steamed Maryland Crabs

WITH HOOPER’S CRAB HOUSE CRAB SEASONING

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RESIDENTIAL HEATING AND

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DUCTLESS SYSTEMS

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PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

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200 Mallard Cove Ln, Stevensville, MD

Offered at $5,190,000 4 Bed | 5 Baths | 7,200 Sq Ft

Panoramic bay views, a bayside pool, 500 feet of water frontage, and 15 acres of manicured land make Mallard Cove a spectacular coastal estate. You enter a private, ¼-mile paved driveway and drive through acres of lush land with a pond to reach this idyllic waterfront retreat. Inside, the home features spacious living areas, updated bathrooms, and a custom-built Irish pub. The renovated kitchen has high-end appliances and stunning views of the bay. Just minutes from Annapolis, Mallard Cove offers both privacy and accessibility.

coastal PARTING SHOT

Bucket List Skies

I went out at about 1:00 a.m. early Sunday morning on May 12 in hopes of capturing Aurora Borealis over the ocean. When I arrived at Gordon’s Pond Beach in Cape Henlopen, the rain was soft and steady, and the skies were darkened by clouds.

At around 3:30 a.m., I saw the lights shining behind the clouds. It was unmistakable, and a sight which had always been on my “bucket list” came into view! The rain had stopped and the wind had created a break in the clouds. There was not another human anywhere nearby.

I wiped the lens dry and started with a series of long exposure photographs. With my iso and aperture set, and my focus to infinity, I was determined to capture this scene with one shot—and not blend or stack images. The 30-second exposure smoothed the ocean waves and the clouds out in a blurred motion, while amplifying the beautiful, florescent pinkish glow in the skies.

I managed to get seven shots—and then it was gone, like a dream. The clouds had returned. I stayed there until dawn, but the Northern Lights did not appear again. As a photographer, my style is to paint with light. The camera is my brush, the sensor is my canvas. It’s always about the light.

Ironically, a friend who was in Iceland at the time messaged me to say that the lights had not been visible to her during her stay. And yet, here we were in Delaware witnessing this amazing display. This is why I think of my home here as a small, but magical, little corner of the world—a tiny area which never ceases to surprise us with big miracles. CS

Photo and Description by Gandhi Hurwitz