Tidewater Times
December 2019
www.SaintMichaelsWaterfront.com
NEW WATERFRONT LISTING - Sited on a prime 1/2 acre lot as you enter the Village of Neavitt, this attractive 2,528 sq. ft. 3-bedroom home was constructed in 2018 on the site of a former 100 yr. old farmhouse. The house is essentially brand new, with top-of-the-line kitchen, 3 full baths & high efficiency HVAC. The views looking directly down Balls Creek toward Broad Creek are outstanding! The 1.3 acre waterfront lot w/boat ramp across the street is included! Just listed @ $475,000. Call TOM CROUCH for details.
Tom & Debra Crouch
Benson & Mangold Real Estate
116 N. Talbot St., St. Michaels ¡ 410-745-0720 Tom Crouch: 410-310-8916 Debra Crouch: 410-924-0771
tcrouch@bensonandmangold.com dcrouch@bensonandmangold.com
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Tidewater Times
Since 1952, Eastern Shore of Maryland Vol. 68, No. 7
Published Monthly
December 2019
Features: About the Cover Photographer: Suzanne Trice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 The Tilghman Street Country Club: Helen Chappell . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Humpbacks and Orcas: Dick Cooper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Back to Chestertown: Michael Valliant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 The Chesapeake Multicultural Center: Bonna L. Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Tidewater Kitchen: Pamela Meredith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Tidewater Gardening: K. Marc Teffeau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83 Memories of Christmas Past: Gary D. Crawford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141 Christmas in St. Michaels House Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .157 Changes ~ All-American (Part 3): Roger Vaughan . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
Departments: December Tide Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Dorchester Points of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Easton Points of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105 St. Michaels Points of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Oxford Points of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Tilghman ~ Bay Hundred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139 Kent County and Chestertown at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173 Queen Anne’s County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175 Caroline County ~ A Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177 December Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179 Anne B. Farwell, Publisher
P. O. Box 1141, Easton, Maryland 21601 3947 Harrison Circle, Trappe MD 21673 410-714-9389 FAX : 410-476-6286 www.tidewatertimes.com info@tidewatertimes.com Tidewater Times is published monthly by Bailey-Farwell, LLC. Advertising rates upon request. Subscription price is $25.00 per year. Individual copies are $4. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or whole without prior approval of the publisher. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors and/or omissions.
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About the Cover Photographer Suzanne Trice back seat. Photos and journals from those trips are part of the albums that chronicle their life. National parks and lighthouses were always on the list of places to visit. At home, her concentration is on nature and the changing seasons, with a special interest in butterflies. Sharing photos with family and friends provides opportunities to encourage others to increase pollinator habitat. And there is always that reminder that a camera in your pocket is the best way to capture the moment you didn’t want to miss.
The winner of the first annual Tidewater Times December photo contest is Suzanne Trice. Although there were more than 40 submissions, the judging panel thought that Suzanne’s photo embodied the MidShore Christmas spirit. Suzanne and her husband, John, live on a farm that has been in his family for more than 250 years near Hurlock in Dorchester County. In retirement, they have covered many miles across the country on a HarleyDavidson motorcycle, with Suzanne as the guide and photographer on the
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The Tilghman Street Country Club by Helen Chappell
fish or an afternoon’s trolling for blues. I loved fishing more than almost anything in this world, which was enough to make me one of the boys, and is another story for another time. Anyway, The Yellow House was a mess. A hot mess. But first, some backstory. The crumbling house was escapade central. Someone had stolen a sign that proclaimed some other place The Tilghman Country Club.
After a guided tour of the house, a friend of mine sniffed, “If they made them live like this, they’d hire a lawyer.” “They” were a rotating set of bachelors whose habitat was a crumbling yellow house on Oxford’s least upscale boulevard of broken dreams, Tilghman Street. Remember, this was back in the ’70s, when gentrification was still creeping through the small town and Oxford was the home of the newly wed, the nearly dead and people whose people had lived there since the beginning of time. Since I was living in the guest cottage of my nearly dead parental units across town, I naturally gravitated to my peer group of eternal Peter Pans and ne’er-do-wells who lived on. . . well, you get it. If that street could talk, the stories it could tell about our escapades. The basic bond I shared with the boys was a brutal sense of ironic humor, an enjoyment of substances liquid and dry and fishing. We all loved fishing. Nothing could have been better for us than to load on one guy’s boat and head out to the Sharp’s Island Light for some rock9
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To call it a slum would be an insult to slums. The screen door on the front hung crazily on one hinge and banged in the wind, but there were so many drafts running through that place that one more knock didn’t make much of a difference. The cracked windows were duct taped on with clear plastic. You walked into a hallway where several layers of linoleum had worn through to the original f loorboards. To your right was a living room furnished with castoff furniture found on the street on heavy trash pick-up day. The wallpaper was peeling in strips, and the room was heated by, no surprises here, a big old oil drum converted into a woodstove. The place and its
It had been but the work of some beer and chemically inspired wit to change it to THE TILGHMAN STREET COUNTRY CLUB and hang it over the lopsided front door of what once had been known as The Yellow House because some transient former residents had been hired by the absentee owner to paint it that color. To this day, I have no idea who had the deed to the place. A rent check was mailed to someplace across the Bridge, and as long as no one bothered the guy for any pesky repairs or upkeep, neither hide nor hair of him was ever seen. Needless to say, no one bothered him.
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SUNSETS ON THE TRED AVON In the heart of Oxford’s historic district sited on .5 acre, southwesterly views of the Tred Avon River. The main house has 2 separate living quarters. Efficiency cottage, rip-rapped shoreline and pier. Enjoy it as it sits or create your new dream home in this picturesque, waterfront town in small town America. $995,000
GRAND HUNTING FARM ON THE CHOPTANK 121.64+/- acre waterfront farm w/excellent hunting on a cove looking out to the Choptank River. Farmhouse built in 2002 is perfect for modern living and entertaining. The barn is at the front of the property to give the main house its privacy and accommodates 8 hunters, ponds, 3,700 +/- ft shoreline. $1,325,000
ON THE TRED AVON IN EASTON Easton Waterfront with views overlooking the Tred Avon River. 1st floor living areas have lots of glass for spectacular views of the water. Plenty of room for everyone with 3 levels of living space including 2 kitchens, 4 BR’s and 4 1/2 baths. Finished, walk-out basement for easy access to the terrace and pier. $949,000
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Traci Jordan Associate Broker, GRI
Country Club
lived in Oxford and was a regular visitor to this place, that potato never rotted. It never even sprouted eyes. It just sat there on the back of that old rump-sprung couch. Maybe it was the household god of the place. No self-respecting ghost would ever haunt that place, and I’m sure it was old enough to have had a few births and deaths. There was a bedroom across the hall, but the door was always shut, and I had no intention of ever going in there under any circumstances. First of all, I’m not that kind of girl, and second, these guys were not my romantic ideals. And it didn’t take a writerly imagination to figure out what that room looked like. The guy who lived in there probably took his laundry home to Mom about once a month. Sure, they all had jobs, stuff like working in boatyards or construction or some other manly-man work available to guys who went to Woodstock, tuned in, turned on and dropped out of college. But for me, it was more like being around the Seven Dwarfs, and I’m sure I wasn’t their idea of Snow White. Fishing, though. I lived for fishing, and these were the guys with the bait, the beer and the boat. You went to the Tilghman Street Country Club when you wanted to plan the next fishing trip, were bored, or high or wanted to be high, or to drink something without having to be as social as you
residents always smelled of wood smoke and fried clams, which they bought from the local seafood processor by the sack. The single ornament in the living room was a TV, and it was always the newest and best TV on the market. The rest of the house looked like the Ushers had moved out centuries ago, but that TV was always primo. Since that was where everyone hung out, I had visited on and off for six months before I saw the rest of the place.
Before we start the tour, I just want to mention that a potato, a single plain Idaho potato, lived on the back of the couch. It was always there, and heaven forfend you touched or moved it. It was just there, and no explanation was ever given for it, no matter how much I wheedled. The interesting thing was, in the two or three years I 16
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Country Club
The linoleum, again, was so ancient you could sit on the toilet and read the Sunday funnies from the Depression that had been used to originally insulate the f loors. I tried to hold it, but sometimes a girl has to do what a girl has to do, and I couldn’t just duck out into the back yard behind the rusted old Ford pickup like the boys. That back door actually led to Town Creek, but the yard was so full of half-hulled boats, used car parts and other bachelor junk I doubt you could pick your way down to the water without incurring a case of tetanus. I know what you’re thinking, and you’re probably right. There are a lot of straight men who are neat and clean and don’t live like pigs. But they wouldn’t make as interesting a read as the Tilghman Street boys. And that was then. That was our normal. I mean, it was a fun place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live there. And I think the boys knew, in their heart of hearts, that they wouldn’t be in this Peter Pan land forever. Sooner or later, they’d meet a woman, or go back to school, or be adult in some other way, and they’d have to rejoin the real world. But for those brief shining years, it was fun and fishing. Every once in a while, I’d go down there and play cards. I’m not the world’s best card player, and I’m long out of practice, but we used to play a waterman’s game called
would if you went to the old Aloha, a now defunct establishment that is, too, another story in itself.
Moving on to the back of the house, we came to the kitchen. It was about what you would expect, what with the crusty unwashed pans and stack of dirty dishes in the cracked and chipped sink and the refrigerator so in need of a defrosting you could barely shove a box of frozen peas in there. Again, the linoleum was worn in archeological layers. Bachelors in paradise. No one brought a woman to the house for obvious reasons. The bathroom was off the kitchen, and it was notable both for an ancient, stained claw foot bathtub and a hole rotted through the f loor under the sink through which you could see the ground. In the summer, vines poked their way up the sink pipes. In the winter, the wind gusted through the hole so that they had to put a milk house heater in there after an ugly incident with frozen pipes and f looding. 18
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Country Club
As my friend said, if someone made those guys live like that, they’d have hired a lawyer. Looking back, I think they took pride in their wallowing. It was a part of their rebellion. Eventually, I moved across the river and didn’t come to Oxford as often, or fish as much, and when I did take the ferry, it was to see my parents, not the Country Club guys. One by one, they moved on, too. Went back to school, got married, got better jobs, grew up and left Never Never Land. Some of them are dead now, and some of them try to pretend it never happened, not that I blame them. Last time I was in Oxford, I drove down Tilghman Street, and the County Club was gone. A fancy mini McMansion sat in the lot where it used to be, which somehow seems fitting. The Yellow House may be gone, but the memory of the Tilghman Street Country Club lingers on, a legend in its own mind. But I’ve never had such a great time fishing since then.
Tonk, a couple of kinds of Spades and Indian poker, which, as I recall, involved sticking a card you couldn’t see in the frame of your glasses right above your forehead. We played for quarters because no one had any money. I think we had fun. They say if you can remember the ’60s you probably weren’t there, but I was also holding down a real-life job. In fact, we were all holding down real-life jobs. Just not the kind of jobs where you put on a tie every morning. One time, I did have to go upstairs. The TV antenna (this was before cable and satellite) was hanging in someone’s bedroom, just a couple of feet from the bed, and apparently, if you moved downstairs, it would jar the antenna just so, and someone would have to go up and adjust it. That’s when I saw the deserted room where a tree was growing up through dirt on the f loor. At least I think it was the dirt on the f loor. I’m not sure. All I can say is it was a black walnut sapling, and it was coming up out of the f loor.
Helen Chappell is the creator of the Sam and Hollis mystery series and the Oysterback stories, as well as The Chesapeake Book of the Dead. Under her pen names, Rebecca Baldwin and Caroline Brooks, she has published a number of historical novels. 20
Amazing Peace Into this climate of fear and apprehension, Christmas enters, Streaming lights of joy, ringing bells of hope It is Christmas time, a halting of hate time At this Holy Instant, we celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ We, Angels and Mortals, Believers and Non-Believers, Look heavenward and speak the word aloud. Peace
Taken from Amazing Peace, a Christmas poem by Maya Angelou
May Peace Fill your Hearts and Homes this Holiday Season. Wink Cowee WINK COWEE, ASSOCIATE BROKER Benson & Mangold Real Estate 211 N. Talbot St., St. Michaels, MD 21663
410-310-0208 (DIRECT) 410-745-0415 (OFFICE) www.BuyTheChesapeake.com winkcowee@gmail.com 21
Elegant American Four-Square home and stunning gardens accented by graceful front and side porches in the Historic District of Cambridge. First floor with beautiful foyer, fireplaces in living and dining rooms, bright and cheery kitchen. Second floor master bedroom with sitting area, 2 additional bedrooms and full bath. Third floor bedroom and reading room/playroom plus a large storage closet and walk-in attic access. Central air and radiator heat. 1 car detached garage, detached studio/workshop with fireplace and adjoining storage. Kitchen opens to deck and fenced backyard. Close to deep water marina, shopping and restaurants.
$450,000
Debbie Luthy BENSON & MANGOLD REAL ESTATE
410-463-3128 ¡ 410-228-0800 dbluthy@gmail.com 301 Crusader Road, Cambridge, MD 21613 22
Humpbacks and Orcas, Sea Lions and Spirit Bears: A Slow Boat through an Enchanted Waterway by Dick Cooper INSIDE PASSAGE, Coast of British Columbia, Canada ~ I was steadying my balance against the lifeline of the 1929 tugboat David B as I zoomed my camera lens in on the dorsal fin of a humpback whale creasing the water’s surface just off the boat’s bow when the sea in front of me erupted. I instinctively
held down the shutter button as a massive shape, almost as big as the boat, burst into the air. A breaching whale turned on its side in mid-air, its massive pectoral fins seeming to be fighting to find flight. Then it fell with a belly-flop crash back into the water, setting up a series of waves that rocked the 100-ton tug.
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Humpbacks and Orcas
Smith headed the tug off in search of the blond subspecies of the black bear that was reported along the rocky island banks. And so it went for much of our 12day, bucket-list cruise on the David B. We sailed almost 725 miles from Ketchikan, Alaska, to our final destination of Bellingham, Washington, the homeport of the restored wooden work vessel turned small cruise ship. We saw an abundance of wildlife, including more humpbacks, orcas, curious seals and lumbering sea lions. Our days were filled with serendipity and the unexpected. We saw numerous unnamed waterfalls cascading off cliffs, watched the play of sunlight on low fog banks in the morning, bathed in natural hot springs pools and felt the tugboat swerve as it was caught in a tidal swirl so strong it was momentarily pulled off course. One afternoon, Pat and I were standing in on the foredeck enjoying the warm sun when Dall’s porpoises, a species I had never heard of before, shot across our bow like torpedoes missing their mark. The
My wife, Pat, and the five other passengers onboard the David B whooped and cheered with excitement at what we had just witnessed. Everyone exclaimed in unison, “Did you see that? Did you see that?” The thrill of being so close to such a huge, powerful animal left us almost giddy with glee. The “whale show” continued as the pod of humpbacks treated us to thunderous spouts, graceful tail displays and full-body rolls. They seemed to ignore us as they swam in synchronized circles herding fish. They dived deep under their prey, turning the water a bright aquamarine color as they blew bubbles to push the fish up to the surface. Then, with their barndoor mouths agape, they feasted in a frothy frenzy. We were so close we could smell their raunchy fish breath. Big globs of whale poop floated by the boat. Our stay with the whales was cut short by a ship’s-radio report of the sighting of a very rare “Spirit Bear” a few miles away. Captain Jeffrey
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Humpbacks and Orcas
Bermuda 40 sailboat, exploring the coves and creeks of the Bay, enjoying the solitude of hidden anchorages and bustle of city docks. The idea of cruising elsewhere always intrigued us. On our annual winter vacations in a beachfront hotel in A r uba, we watched the daily parade of 1,000-foot-long cruise ships carrying thousands of passengers into the Caribbean port. We heartily agreed that the garishly lit monster floating hotels with their waterslides, rockclimbing walls and roulette tables were definitely not for us. We’re not sure now how we found the David B, but it was probably during a Google search for small cruise boats that we hit on www.northwestnavigation.com, the website for the old tug. Jeffrey and Christine Smith, the Bellingham couple who bought the rotting hulk in 1998 and spent eight years rebuilding her plank by plank, have put together a comprehensive website that details the off-the-grid adventures that are their specialty. Pat and I kept the David B in the back of our minds for several years while we went about
sleek, small porpoises, the fastest of their species, swim at speeds up to 35 miles an hour. For several minutes, they played with the David B, zipping this way and that, streaking in crisscrossed patterns ahead of the lumbering boat. And just like that, they were gone. I fought back an urge to cry, “More, more, I want more.” And when we weren’t being surprised and awestruck by nature, we became good friends with our fellow passengers, a very diverse group of strangers who shared a common love of nature and new discoveries. *** Our trip on the David B was a long time in the planning stage. Pat and I have spent years sailing the Chesapeake Bay on our Hinckley
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The region has long been the home of First Nations people who flourished on the region’s plentiful wildlife and natural resources. The passage was extensively explored by Russia n, Br it ish a nd Spanish seafarers in the latter part of the 18th century. British Royal Nav y Captain George Vancouver charted the region between 1791 and 1795, leaving his name and those of his crew and voyage sponsors on islands and waterways throughout its length. For the most part, the region is inaccessible by land, making it sparsely populated and keeping it, for the most part unspoiled ~ hence its attraction. As its name connotes, the passage allows ships of all sizes to navigate inside the barrier islands and away from the perils of the open Pacific Ocean. Much of the route is very similar to river travel. The major cr uise ship lines discovered its beauty decades ago and have turned southeastern Alaska’s small cities into ports of call. For us, the lure of the David B was that its routes would take us to the byways off the byways,
our daily lives. When Pat joined me in retirement almost two years ago, the boat came to the fore again. Then, during a six-month period in early 2018, two friends who were my age died. I said to Pat, “Let’s do this while we still can.” *** The Inside Passage is a marine highway through one of the most remote, rugged and gloriously beautiful coasts of North America. Stretching from Tacoma, Washington, in the south to Skagway, Alaska, in the north, and including the entire coast of British Columbia, the Inside Passage winds its way past mountainous islands, around dangerous shoals and through raging tidal rapids. Millions of acres of old-growth spruce, hemlock and cedar forests cover the sharp granite slopes, forming what is now the Tongass National Forest in Alaska and the Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. Together they “encompass the largest intact temperate rainforest on earth,” according to Audubon Alaska’s website.
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KINTORE LAKE Private oasis on 5.78 ac. $887,500
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Humpbacks and Orcas
big-city finale to our Northwest tour. Then we waited. Dur ing t he inter vening yea r, we decided to put our home in St. Michaels up for sale and relocate to our favorite Florida city of Sarasota. Four months before we were to start the cruise, our house sold. We had to scramble to buy a house in Sarasota, pack everything we owned in Maryland, move and then unpack it all into our new home. Pat rebooked our flights to originate in and return to Tampa. Everything was set until we arrived at the airport at 6 a.m. the day of our departure. The first thing we saw on the monitor was that our f light was cancelled. Great, I
places where big cruise ships dare not go. Those were the places we wanted to see. *** Pat, who spent a good part of her professional life booking travel for the various business executives she supported, arranged for the airfare from BWI to Seattle to Ketchikan to meet the boat. We booked three nights prior to boarding the David B in a very nice Ketchikan hotel, thinking we might as well enjoy the only time we plan to visit Alaska. We also booked two nights in a waterfront hotel in Bellingham after our return and two nights in Seattle to give a
David B at anchor. 30
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better than the website made them look. Hundred-foot-tall spruce trees framed our view of the city and its busy marina and cruise ship quay where as many as four of the behemouths park each day. The hotel has a funicular that runs down the cliff face from its lobby down to Creek Street below. Creek Street is a collection of clapboard buildings that served as brothels for the rough-and-tumble fishermen, loggers and miners who settled the area. The city didn’t outlaw prostitution until 1954. There’s even a hookers’ museum called Dolly’s House that boasts the slogan “WHERE BOT H ME N & SA L MON CA ME UPSTREAM TO SPAWN.” One of the more fascinating treks of our Ketchikan stay was along the
thought, a year in the planning and we can’t take the first step. Southwest Airlines must have anticipated my angst because when we went to the agent’s desk, we found we were already booked on a new flight that would still get us to Seattle to make our Ketchikan connection. Fourteen hours, three planes (we had to change planes in Kansas City as well as in Seattle) and a ferry ride (Ketchikan is on one island and its airport is on another) and we were checking in to the beautiful Cape Fox Lodge, the premier hotel on a bluff overlooking the city of Ketchikan and the Tongass Strait. The views from our room and the hotel’s lounge and dining room were even
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Humpbacks and Orcas
gates, and we loaded our two small, but very heavy, suitcases into a dock cart and held on for dear life as we started down the steep, grated ramp that led to the floating docks lined with big fishing boats. Tides in the area run more than 20 feet, making floating docks a must. The old wooden tug looked like a lost museum piece flanked by muscle-bound, steel-hulled purse-seiners bristling with booms and blocks and rigging. Another couple with a cart more heavily laden than ours came up beside us and introduced themselves as Bucky and Lynda from Santa Fe, New Mexico. Christine and Jeffrey Smith appeared on deck and welcomed us on board. Jeffrey led us down to our cabin. The look on Pat’s face was not one of joy. The space was spartan, at best. It was smaller than the vee-berth on our sailboat. While the cabin had its own head and sink, a stepstool was necessary to climb up into the high berth. Strategically placed hand grips were needed to hoist oneself up. We quickly realized this was a 90-year-old workboat designed to haul a half-dozen smaller fishing boats from canneries out to the fishing grounds and back. Creature comforts in the cabin were not high on the naval architect’s list of must-have features. Back in the main salon, we met the rest of our fellow passengers, Ron and Glenys from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Dan from Santa Cruz, California. After a brief orientation,
trail that runs beside the rapids of the town’s creek, where tens of thousands of salmon were fighting whitewater torrents to get to the calmer spawning flats upstream. The trail leads to the Deer Mountain Fish Hatchery, City Park and the Totem Heritage Center, all of which are worth the uphill walk. The private non-profit hatchery releases 100,000 fingerling king salmon into the creek each year and is open for tours. One passionate guide explained the hands-on method they use to fertilize the salmon roe. The City Park is dotted with small ponds dug eons ago by the Tlingit, Haida and Tshimsian people who used them as early fish hatcheries. The totem museum is a tribute to the carving skills of those people and how they used the poles to tell stories and honor their leaders. The museum had a quiet, calming feel helped by the lighting on the ancient poles on display just inside the main door. The faces carved by hand with stone, shell, bone and tooth tools were the visages of long-dead people who had lived important lives. Their memories are preserved in this special place. *** After two days of sightseeing, it was time to board the David B waiting for us in the commercial marina north of town. The hotel shuttle driver dropped us off at the marina 34
Second Count of Revillagigedo, who was the viceroy of New Spain in the late 1700s. The names of the islands throughout the Inside Passage are a mix of English, Spanish and Native names.) Our hotel, which had seemed as if it was on a high precipice, was really sitting on nothing more than a low foothill. We were embarking on a trip that quickly used up most of the superlatives in the English dictionary. Captain Jeffrey announced that our first day would be a relatively short one and that we would be spending our night at anchor in Foggy Bay. When we arrived in the late afternoon, it was neither foggy nor a bay but rather a snug anchorage hidden behind a narrow spit of
the dock lines were slipped and we motored out into Tongass Strait, southbound on our long-awaited adventure. Everything usually looks bigger from the deck of a small vessel, and the cruise ships lined up in front of Ketchikan were no exception. They loomed above us, looking more like skyscrapers than seagoing ships. One of them with the oxymoronic name of Norwegian Bliss even had a theme park extruding from its upper decks. But once we motored past the ships, we felt even smaller as the mountains of Revillagigedo Island behind the town climbed steeply to over 3,600 feet. (The locals call the island Revilla for short. It was named for Juan Vicente de Güemes,
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Humpbacks and Orcas
the rocks as the tide ebbed. A belted kingfisher darted by, lighting on a spruce branch to watch us pass. Meanwhile, back on the boat, Christine was performing her magic in the galley. A gourmet cook with a fondness for baking, Christine would amaze us for the next 12 days as she produced three expansive meals a day, plus treats, from her wood-fired stove and oven. Several varieties of fresh-baked breads, muffins and pastries, still warm, seemed to fly out into her galley. At the end of the first day, and every one thereafter, we all slid in around the big varnished dining table in the stern of the boat for family-style meals, passing heaping platters and steaming bowls of food around to share. We all bonded at that table, telling stories of our lives and families and sharing tales about other boating and land travels. Before we turned in for the night, Jeffrey brought out his charts and explained our trip for the next day. He posted our itinerary on a small chalkboard in the main salon. It became a calendar of sorts to mark the passing of our days aboard. At 1 a.m., Jeffrey knocked on our cabin door and whispered that Northern Lights were visible on the horizon. Up on deck, Pat and I joined Bucky and Lynda as green jagged lights pulsed above the tree-lined cove. For all of us, it was our first time watching the Aurora Borealis in its native habitat. Wake-up calls are not needed
land. Being Chesapeake Bay sailors, we found the rock-strewn entrance and the extreme depths of the water rather intimidating. The anchorage outside the channel rose sharply from 700 to 150 feet. We dropped the hook in an area of the cove that was about 55 feet deep but with a muddy bottom. Captain Jeffrey was quick to point out that the 450-pound anchor and more than 180 feet of chain would keep us secure for the night. Within minutes, we heard the whir of a small electric motor as Jeffrey and Christine lowered the blunt-nosed aluminum skiff with its outboard motor from its mount on the cabin top. This was to be the first of several side excursions to explore deeper into the coves and beaches and other areas even the David B could not reach. We clambered in and were soon speeding around a bend to explore the headwaters of the stream that poured down from a 2,600-high mountain into Foggy Bay. The stream’s current was so strong it churned up layers of sea foam that skidded across the swirling surface. The foam spun wildly in tight whirlpools, only to be scattered at random. It looked as if someone had poured liquid Daw n into a dishwasher. Along the way, Jeffrey edged the boat close to the rock banks and pointed out the colorful starfish, anemones and snails that clung to 36
37
Humpbacks and Orcas
by modern standards, but we passengers managed to find our own spaces during the course of the 12 days. The bench seat in the wheelhouse offered a comfortable and cozy vantage point to watch the scenery go by as we chatted with Jeffrey. The main salon had two long couch seats along the windows and an armchair that always seemed to be occupied. A stool in the galley was a great place to talk with Christine about the region’s wildlife while she kneaded dough or prepared a vat of soup. Teak chairs on the fantail provided a quiet retreat, and the two deck chairs on the cabin top above the wheelhouse gave a panoramic view of the jaw-dropping scenery. Occupants of those seats often were the first to sound a whale alert. *** That was the case when a pod of five or six humpbacks was spotted. We were very content just watching them breach and bubble fish when the report of the “Spirit Bear” sighting came in. Christine was visibly excited. She has cruised this area for 14 years and has studied all about the “Spirit Bears” and their lore, but she had never seen one. The First Nations people of the region believe that the Great Spirit made one out of every 10 black bears white to remind the people of the hardships of the Ice Age that formed this mountainous land. The Spirit Bears are not albino black bears. A genetic mutation in those living on three British Colum-
on the David B. Everyone on board k now s when Jef f re y st a r t s t he 90-year-old Washington Iron Works diesel. It has three huge cylinders, produces 100 horsepower and looks like the front end of a well-oiled locomotive. After the initial rumble and rattle, it settles into a rhythmic, three-beat cadence that can lull the sleepy back to the pillow. But once it is time for the anchor to come up, there is no pulling up of the covers. Christine told us that first night about a young passenger who likened the anchor being hauled to a “dragon’s roar.” That was an understatement. The entire boat seems to amplify the metal-on-metal cacophony. The only way to make it end was to pull on your clothes, head to the galley, pour a big cup of coffee and eat a warm blueberry muffin. We saw our first of many humpback whales spouting in the distance by noon the second day on the David B. A white geyser more than a mile away turned into a cloud of mist in the wind, and then another burst 20 feet into the air gave us a better fix. We got close enough to make out the arching back of the 40-ton whale. I took a picture of its iconic tail as it slid into the water. It was a long-lens shot, but it was my first. When the whale sounded and we lost visual contact, Jeffrey headed back on course. The David B is not a large boat 38
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Humpbacks and Orcas
look at the cub, when suddenly out of the brush came its Spirit Bear mother. She was the color of a shiny yellow Lab, and she was very worried about her offspring. She moved quickly down the rock and at first appeared to scold him for getting into trouble. Then she paused as if to rethink. She climbed down the rock closer to her cub and nuzzled up to its ear as if to say, “You’re okay, you can do this.” The little bear finally made a tentative move, grabbed a crevasse in the rock and pulled itself up to better footing. Her job accomplished, the Spirit Bear disappeared
bia islands causes yellowish blond or white fur. Spirit Bear sightings are rare, and a lodge in a nearby First Nations village promotes expensive excursions to look for them but does not guarantee the outcome. A s Jeffrey edged the David B closer to shore, we saw a small black cub stranded on the sharp rock face near the water’s edge. The cub was clinging on for dear life, unable or too afraid to move in any direction. I attached a super zoom lens to my camera and was able to get a good
40
back into the underbrush and the cub meandered up the rock and followed her into the woods. Scientists believe that only 200 to 400 of the bears exist in the wild, and we saw one from the decks of the David B. It was very cool. *** Each day of our trip was different. We spent one night at the dock of a marina in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, where we cleared Canadian Customs, but we anchored in secluded coves the rest of the nights. One morning, we went ashore at the native fishing village of Alert Bay, British Columbia, and explored the U’Mista Cultural Centre that celebrates the cult ure of t he Kwa k wa ka’wa k w people. The museum entrance is guarded by totem poles and has a one-of-a-kind display of carved masks used during tribal gatherings called potlatches. But for the most part, we were disconnected from the rest of the world during the voyage. Occasionally, as we passed a small village or a resort, a few emails would ping cell phones or tablets before we motored out of range. There was no TV, Netflix or Amazon Prime. Not even WiFi. It was very refreshing. We read, Bucky and Lynda played gin, we shared more stories and often sat quietly watching unspoiled nature pass by at six knots. The southern end of our voyage took us from Canadian waters into the fabled San Juan Islands of Washington. We were greeted back
into the States by seals who covered rocks by the dozens and stared as we motored by. Four-hundred-foot-long Washington State ferryboats capable of carrying 2,500 passengers and 200 vehicles crossed our path on the way in to Bellingham. When Captain Jeffrey steered the David B through the jetties and into Squalicum Harbor, other captains and crew on the docks shouted, “Welcome Back.” Within an hour of landing, our bags were offloaded and last-minute hugs were shared w ith our new friends. Email and home addresses were exchanged, and promises to keep in touch were made. We thanked Jeffrey and Christine for providing us with wonderful and memorable adventure. Lynda, Bucky, Pat and I posed for a photo on the dock in front of David B’s bluff bow. We squinted in the late, low afternoon sun that was striking a black raincloud in the hills behind Bellingham. A big rainbow arched high over our heads. Dick Cooper is a Pulitzer Prizewinning journalist. He sailed the Chesapeake Bay for more than four decades before recently coming ashore in Sarasota, Florida. An eBook anthology of his writings for the Tidewater Times and other publications, “East of the Chesapeake: Skipjacks, Flyboys and Sailors, True Tales of the Eastern Shore,” is available at Amazon.com. He can be reached at dickcooper28@gmail.com. 41
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TIDE TABLE
OXFORD, MD 1. Sun. 2. Mon. 3 Tues. 4. Wed. 5. Thurs. 6. Fri. 7. Sat. 8. Sun. 9. Mon. 10. Tues. 11. Wed. 12. Thurs. 13. Fri. 14. Sat. 15. Sun. 16. Mon. 17. Tues. 18. Wed. 19. Thurs. 20. Fri. 21. Sat. 22. Sun. 23. Mon. 24. Tues. 25. Wed. 26. Thurs. 27. Fri. 28. Sat. 29. Sun. 30. Mon. 31. Tues.
DECEMBER 2019
HIGH PM AM
6:42 7:36 8:33 9:33 10:33 11:32 12:06 12:50 1:35 2:19 3:05 3:51 4:40 5:30 6:23 7:21 8:22 9:27 10:33 11:38 12:29 1:22 2:14 3:04 3:52 4:39 5:26 6:13 7:02
7:26 8:14 9:03 9:51 10:37 11:22 12:25 1:12 1:54 2:33 3:11 3:51 4:33 5:18 6:06 6:57 7:51 8:46 9:42 10:39 11:34 12:39 1:35 2:28 3:17 4:03 4:47 5:30 6:12 6:53 7:34
AM
LOW PM
2:11 2:58 3:42 4:23 5:02 5:38 6:14 6:48 7:22 7:57 8:34 9:12 9:54 12:08 12:53 1:40 2:27 3:14 4:02 4:49 5:35 6:21 7:06 7:50 8:34 9:18 10:02 12:10 12:51 1:30 2:06
12:41 1:36 2:37 3:44 4:54 6:01 7:05 8:03 8:58 9:48 10:36 11:22 10:40am 11:31am 12:28 1:33 2:46 4:05 5:25 6:40 7:48 8:50 9:47 10:38 11:26 10:46am 11:31am 12:18 1:07
Happy
Holidays
From all of us at Campbell’s
Thank you for making 2019 a great boating year, and we look forward to working with each of you in 2020!
SHARP’S IS. LIGHT: 46 minutes before Oxford TILGHMAN: Dogwood Harbor same as Oxford EASTON POINT: 5 minutes after Oxford CAMBRIDGE: 10 minutes after Oxford CLAIBORNE: 25 minutes after Oxford ST. MICHAELS MILES R.: 47 min. after Oxford WYE LANDING: 1 hr. after Oxford ANNAPOLIS: 1 hr., 29 min. after Oxford KENT NARROWS: 1 hr., 29 min. after Oxford CENTREVILLE LANDING: 2 hrs. after Oxford CHESTERTOWN: 3 hrs., 44 min. after Oxford
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44
Going Back to Chestertown by Michael Valliant
Chestertown has it going on. It’s a small town, nestled right on the Chester River, with some of the Mid-Shore’s most popular annual events, an expanding number of bars and restaurants, distillery, bakery, theater, galleries, unique shops, historic inns, spirited bookstore and weekly farmer’s market with artisans of all kinds, to name a few things. And it’s home to one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country, Washington College, creating a diversity of ages and an incredible cultural life. If you haven’t
been to Chestertown lately, you owe yourself a day or an overnight trip. Like any town, Chestertown begins with its downtown area, which is a mix of longtime businesses and new shops and restaurants. Among the newer eateries and attractions is Bad Alfred’s, a brewpub and distillery featuring house-made spirits, local craft beer and wood-fired pizzas. It was opened in 2018 by Al and Jennifer Cassinelli. If you go for great pizza and drinks, there’s a good chance the owners will check in on you at your
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Back to Chestertown
the distilling process, show you what is currently being made and hold a conversation about practically any subject ~ he also works as a financial planner in his life outside Bad Alfred’s. Neyah White grew up in Chestertown and has taken over three buildings downtown. The Decoy Bottle Shop opened in November 2018, and the Retriever Bar and Oysters just opened this November. “I think Chestertown is in a strong rebuilding phase right now,” White said. “There aren’t many empty storefronts downtown. It takes will and time and money to refurbish some of these older buildings. I look at it as fortifying the temple ~ we want the town to be great now and for future generations. In addition to the Retriever and Decoy, my wife will be opening an ice cream parlor called Stam’s Luncheonette.” The buzz around the Retriever
table ~ they’re both hands-on owners, doing everything from making pizza and doing dishes to catching up with customers and leading tours through the glassed-in distillery space, which you can see from your table or the bar, where they make their own rye, bourbon, grappa, vodka and gin.
“We love being a part of the town here, we see locals and visitors, people we know and people we’re just meeting,” Al said. “The reception has been fantastic; we’re busy and getting great reviews.” Cassinelli can walk you through 46
opening has been substantial. When asked to describe how he envisioned the bar, White likened it to a comfortable pair of jeans: “It might not be all things to all people, but it’s going to be a lot of things to a lot of people.” I think it’s fair to judge a town by its bookstore. And by that criterion, Chestertown soars. Tom Martin opened The Bookplate in 2004. He was involved in politics and international affairs in Washington, DC, and hit a point where he felt burned out. He got a job working at a Borders bookstore and changed his focus. Calling himself too crazy to fit in at Borders, Martin also worked for an independent bookstore. He heard about Chestertown through
his wife’s hairdresser, and they loved the town on their first visit. In 2006-2007, The Bookplate
14028 Augustine Herman Hwy, Georgetown, MD 47
Back to Chestertown moved to its current location, and it was the sale of a rare Harry Potter book that allowed them to invest and expand into the shop’s current form. The shop hosts frequent readings, signings and events, including the phenomenon of writer/illustrator husband/wife team of Matthew Swanson and Robbi Behr, who together have published more than 60 illustrated picture books for adults and children. “Bookplate has definitely become a destination store now,” Martin said. “Our growth has been completely organic and truly incredible.” As you wander down the street, there are plenty of retail stores as well. Houston’s Dockside Emporium, owned by Michelle Timmons, sells all manner of traditional to trendy clothing for women and men, accessories, sterling silver and costume jewelry, gifts and books. Mimi’s Closet, owned by Marjorie Adams, specializes in women’s clothing and accessories. There are also music stores and art galleries. High Street is the main street through the downtown area. Parallel to High Street is Cannon Street, on which you will find two stores next door to each other, owned by a father and son, though the businesses aren’t related. Dave Hoatson owns Chestertown Electric, which is best described as part home technology museum and
part fix-it shop. The space is full of vintage and antique clocks, fans, heaters, lamps and more. Hoatson has been collecting for about five years. He was an electrical engineer in the defense industry before opening up shop. He spends much of his time now repairing and restoring lamps, fans and electronics for people. “People are getting tired of buying appliances that are designed to blow up in six months,” he said. “When someone leaves here with something fixed, you can see a sense of relief and a sense that they are holding on to something rather than throwing it away. In terms of the store, there may not be another just like it anywhere. People who come in are amused and en48
town ~ and in the back is a range of stereo and sound technology that, in some cases, can’t be found anywhere else on the East Coast. “I grew up with a grandfather who was an audio addict, and once you hear this sort of stuff you can’t have a normal stereo,” Mike said. “People don’t like disposable electronics. Everything that we do is heirloom quality. It’s all hand-soldered conventional components, something that if it broke 50 years from now, it would be very easy to fix it and keep it going; you would never throw it away.” Behind the records in the front of the shop is an actual listening room. It’s an audio experience. Mike puts on records and you are surrounded by sound in a way that seems like the bands are playing in the same room. Vinyl is the medium for the audio connoisseur. “It’s two totally different businesses, basically: on the one hand, we have the record customer, who usually enjoys coming back here and listening to something, but they’re not going to spend a lot of
tertained, and they can buy something.” What brought him to Chestertown? “I wanted to be in a town, somewhere I could walk to the stores,” he said. “Cannon Street seems to be blooming; you see businesses opening and houses being restored. And Chestertown is coming together with its own mix of business and people ~ I think it’s important that you don’t have every town in America turning into the exact same thing.” Next door on Cannon Street, Dave’s son Mike Hoatson runs The Listening Room. It’s a business that Mike took over from his grandfather. The shop has vinyl records in the front ~ Chestertown is a college
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Back to Chestertown money on a system,” Hoatson said. “The equipment fiend is sort of a different person. But you also get people who fall in love with it and you see them again a year later. That’s the best sort of sale, when you plant the seed and see that happen ~ when people come in here, it’s often like the experience they had when they first saw a high-definition TV.” The Listening Room has been in Chestertown for two years, after operating in Pikesville for 38 years prior. Mike has customers who fly in from other states to come and listen to a speaker for which Mike is the only dealer on the East Coast. Chestertown is known for its history. Founded in 1706, the town is a national historic landmark, full of 18th- and 19th-century architecture. The White Swan Tavern has been a landmark in the town since before the American Revolution. Each of the innkeepers is steeped in the tavern’s history and can share its story, including the restoration
of the building that began in 1978 and restored the tavern to its 1793 appearance. The White Swan hosts afternoon tea every day from 3 to 5 p.m., which is open to the public and is free to the inn’s guests. Sarah Crump began working at the White Swan in 2013 and has been the manager for more than a year. Damee
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Back to Chestertown
Crump’s love of Chestertown includes the history and the architecture, but it begins with the people. “I love the people you meet here, both in terms of the guests we have, but also our local residents and businesses,” she said. “When you are walking down the street, no matter who you make eye contact
“In addition to being a bed and breakfast, we are also a historical resource,” Crump said. “We offer tours by request in the middle of the week, we are part of the historic homes tour, and the historical society tour ends with tea at the White Swan.”
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53
Back to Chestertown
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with, you’ll have a conversation. Everyone is 100% on board with being a neighbor.” This is just a first stop through Chestertown. We haven’t talked about the incredible annual events, such as the Tea Party in May, the Sultana Education Foundation’s Downrigging Weekend in November or the Dickens of a Christmas in December. We haven’t yet looked at the broader arts scene or incredible art galleries or touched on the college. And we haven’t taken the short ride up the road to Georgetown, Maryland, where Kitty Knight Tavern, Restaurant and Historic Inn and the Fish Whistle at the Granary offer some of the Shore’s best places to eat and stay. But that’s kind of the thing about Chestertown and the surrounding area: you can’t get it done all at once. You’ve got to keep going back. So look for this story to continue.
Before
After
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Michael Valliant is the Assistant for Adult Education and Newcomers Ministry at Christ Church Easton. He has worked for nonprofit organizations throughout Talbot County, including the Oxford Community Center, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and Academy Art Museum.
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Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center (ChesMRC) by Bonna L. Nelson
Mission: Empowering people from different cultures to become successful and engaged members of our community. You may be as sur pr ised as I was to learn that close to 40% of t he s t udent s at tend i ng E a s ton Elementary School are Hispanic. It is estimated that in five years, one in three graduates will have an immigration story. I learned about our multicultural neighbors and immigration stories on the Shore when I attended several presentations by Matthew Peters, executive director of the Chesapeake Multicultural Center (ChesMRC) in Easton, MD. Before we left for a trip to Guatemala in 2017, a friend suggested that I meet Matt, known as “Matteo” to his clients, because he had spent 13 years living and working there. I was told that Matt was helping non-E ng l i sh- sp e a k i ng p er s on s assimilate into the Eastern Shore community. The opportunity did not present itself before the trip, but I have since become a Matt groupie. From attending three of his lectures and interviewing Matt and his staff, I have learned more about our neighbors and the guidance and services
Matthew Peters that ChesMRC provides for them on their journey to success in their new country. Matt is a very peaceful and humble person with a bright smile and spa rk ling eye s. He wa s sent to Guatemala by the Peace Corps to work on reforestation programs. When his two-year tour was over, he stayed on and established Volunteer Petén, a non-profit ecotourism, volunteer and reforestation program. He is f luent in Spanish and gained extensive experience with the cul57
ChesMRC
on our website, Tidewater Times: Guatemala ~ Land of the Maya, May 2017). Matt explained in one of his talks that “Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras are called the Central Triangle, countries that have experienced long-lasting civil wars. Guatemala, for example, experienced a 36-year civil war from 1960 to 1996, with hundreds of thousands killed or missing. Drug cartels moved in and controlled government officials. The violence, corrupt governments and extreme poverty are driving families to seek a better life. The Guatemala story in the U.S. began in the 2000s, when people migrated to find work in order to send money back to families to buy food, water, housing and electricity. There has been a massive displacement of an extremely vulnerable population.” According to Washington political columnist Donald Lambro, “… the vast majority of migrants arriving at our border, largely from Central America, are f leeing crime ~ seeking asylum, jobs and safety. Most come to the border to get on a lengthy waiting list for an appearance in court to hear their case… The hardworking, family-oriented, religious immigrants who still come here in search of the A mer ican dream are no different than the ones who came before them.” Che sMRC a ssist s a l l Ea ster n Shore community members, with a primary focus on new migrants
tures of Central America during his years there. We, too, loved Guatemala. It is a beautiful country, green and lush like the farms and open spaces on the Eastern Shore, with warm, friendly people, delicious food, enchanting music and beautiful crafts. A large population of pure Mayan people still populate Guatemala. We frequently saw Mayan women in native dress in line with children at town banks, waiting to cash their remission checks sent by family living in the United States. Remission checks drive the economy in Guatemala providing 50% of income a nd exc e e d i ng ag r ic u lt u re a nd tourism. (See the Guatemala story 58
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ChesMRC
who speak limited English. The non-profit provides information and referral services that include assistance with immigration, family support, citizenship, driver’s licenses, legal referrals, employment, English (ESL) classes, consultancy and training, insurance, translation and interpretation, housing, recreation, family support, taxes, youth development, school enrollment, afterschool programs, adult education programs and even obtaining a library card. The non-prof it env isions “A n Eastern Shore w ith a multi-culturally vibrant population that is economically productive, politically engaged and socially committed to human dignity.” Since 2012, when
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it was founded by concerned local citizens, ChesMRC and its community partners have provided services to more than 3,800 non-English speakers in Talbot and surrounding counties ~ services that no other organization is providing. They need more volunteers and donations to continue to meet the growing need. (More information about donating and volunteering is provided at the end of this story.) ChesMRC is managed by Executive Director Matthew Peters, from the U.S.; Assistant Director Estela Ramirez, from Honduras; Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Victoria Lozano, from Mexico; Advancement Manager Dr. Lorelly Solano, from Costa Rico; and Director of Administration and Finance Melissa Micriotti, from the U.S. Assisted by part-time staff, volunteers, board members and partnering organizations, they are the heart and soul of ChesMRC, dedicated to providing the crucial services, referrals and advice that our newly arriving neighbors from all over the world need to become contributing members of the community and to help to break down walls and barriers to success. ChesMRC recently moved to a new larger home at 331/333 Dover Street in the East End neighborhood of Easton. Many of their clients reside here, making it a convenient location and within walking distance. State and local government digni-
taries and religious leaders praised the contributions of ChesMRC at the grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony, and donors, partners, clients, board members, staff, community supporters, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and friends cheered when Matthew cut the ribbon. Close to 100 guests filled the bustling reception room and spilled over into other rooms in the newly renovated building and onto the back and front sidewalks celebrating the happy occasion. The turnout was ref lective of the larger Shore community embracing and celebrating diversity as well as supporting and encouraging ChesMRC to fulfill its mission. The scene was much different from the one I observed on a nor-
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is committed to treating all of its residents, including those who identify as immigrants, in a fair and just manner. Through its commitment to social justice and inclusion, one of Easton’s most important objectives is to enhance relationships with all residents, including immigrants, and to make all residents, workers and visitors feel safe and secure regardless of immigration status…” Our community is interested in learning how to assist people from different cultures. Before writing this story for our traditional December non-profit feature, jointly chosen by the Tidewater Times Owner/Publisher/Editor Anne B. Farwell and me, I attended multiple presentations about ChesMRC given
mal workday when several smiling moms with children sat in the quiet reception room in anticipation of meeting with one of the ChesMRC staff. A sweet boy of about eight was playing with toys in the children’s corner. Estella Ramirez was helping two ladies at a nearby desk in the bright, newly painted and welcoming space adorned with f lags from countries of client origins. I was pleased to learn that the Town of Easton also has an Immigration Statement that includes the following: “The Town of Easton believes a more diverse community is a stronger, more vibrant community, and
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ChesMRC
depa r t ments, gover nments a nd businesses throughout the area in hopes of breaking down the cultural barriers that arise from human differences in language, ethnicity, religion, appearance and culture. The information sessions include “Cultural Competency” exercises. By sharing our culture, ethnicity and beliefs in discussions with those in attendance, we gain a new perspective and understanding of what our new neighbors are experiencing and learn how to assist them with their new life. During my interview with Peters and from his talks, I learned that of the 3,800 new community members from 52 countries that ChesMRC has assisted since 2012, 55% are from Guatemala, 15% from Mexico,
by Peters. The American Association of University Women hosted a discussion on immigration trends and changes at the Talbot County Library in Easton. I also attended the Talbot County Democratic Forumsponsored ChesMRC presentation, open to the public and held at the Democratic Headquarters on Dover Street. Finally, I went to a meeting of the Mobilizing for Humane Treatment of Immigrants Task Force held at Temple B’Nai Israel to gather information about ChesMRC. All of these presentations were well attended. ChesMRC provides these educational sessions with public and pr ivate g roups, schools, pol ic e
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11% from Honduras, 7% from Haiti, 7 % f rom E l Sa lvador, 2% f rom Venezuela and 1% from Pakistan. He said that Hispanic students in Easton elementary, middle and high schools increased from 80 to 800 between 2000 and 2017. Peters mentioned that most of the folks who have migrated to our communities from Guatemala hail from two agricultural villages, Tacano and Cuilco, near the southwestern border with Mexico. He said that they have family, friends, acquaintances, culture and agricultural proclivities in common with members of our Hispanic community, which is why they chose the Shore for a new life. Peters then reviewed the nonprofit’s programs with me, beginning w ith one that really lif ted ChesMRC off the ground when it began in 2012 ~ youth development. ChesMRC initially focused on children because doing so helped them gain the confidence and trust of the parents and thus resulted in ways to assist the family unit. Hispanic Outreach Coordinator Victor ia L ozano work s w ith staff and volunteers to implement educational programs for youth and adults. Youth development services include the afterschool personal enr ich ment prog ra m at Ea ston Elementar y School for children from first to fifth grades, taught by part-time employees, schoolteachers and volunteers. The program
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provides assistance with registrat ion, c omputer u se, tex tbook s, parenting, life skills and child care. Assistant Director Estela Ramirez m a n a ge s over a l l op er at ion s at ChesMRC and coordinates w ith the immigrant community and the community at large in addition to leading the Girl Scouts. Peters is an Eagle Scout and a Cub Scout leader for a troop of 40 boys, all children of immigrants. The day after the ChesMRC opening ceremony, staff scout leaders and volunteers took 52 scouts for an outdoor adventure. Regarding employment and the local economy, Peters believes that our new neighbors will provide an incredibly productive, young workforce that is dedicated to their work, their family units and staying on the Shore. They will add value and vibrancy to the region economically and culturally, he believes. The new workforce will contribute to the region’s prosperity, which in turn will provide dignity and well-being to the new families. The primary work disciplines of newcomers have been construction, landscaping, cleaning, childcare, agriculture, hospitality and entrepreneurial pursuits, all of which are needed in our community. Businesses may contact ChesMRC to establish relationships with this growing workforce. Housing is a challenge for many new families. Peters said that sharing apartments and rental houses is common. The cost of buying houses
includes experiences in the arts, healthy habits, STEM and scouting programs. During the first week of the afterschool program, Peters facilitated interactions bet ween English- and non-English-speaking children to reduce tensions related to the language barriers and provide life lessons to help the children for years to come. More volunteers are needed for afterschool and scouting programs. In regards to adult education, ChesMRC provides weekly citizenship classes at the facility as well as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for parents of students in the afterschool program. Additionally, Chesapeake College provides free ESL and GED classes. ChesMRC
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need for a lawyer, in all immigration cases. Additionally, the Certified Application Counselor Organization means they can directly enroll or renew families into Medicaid and health insurance plans. Peters is also a Board of Immigration Appeals accredited representative, a stat us t hat lega lly aut hor izes ChesMRC to conduct immigration work and assist with every thing exc ept i n c ou r t. The y c a n a l so conduct about 90% of immigration advice, forms and representation. All services are free. The organization has been recognized with state-level awards, including the Maryland Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2017 Outstanding Non-Prof it of the Year Award, with Estela Vianey Ramirez nominated for Outstanding Professional of the Year. Peter Franchot presented Matthew Peters with the 2018 William Donald Schaefer Helping People Award for Talbot County. Locally, ChesMRC was named the 2018 Talbot County Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit of the Year. The organization’s partners include the Y MCA; Mid-Shore Pro Bono, which prov ides legal services outside of the scope of work under the DOJ accreditation; the American Immigration Lawyers Association—immigration attorneys who assist w ith citizenship and immigration challenges; and town, county, state, school, private, business and faith groups.
is usually beyond their means. With the immigration demographic still changing and a family a week coming from the border, Peters said that more families are moving in with other families and sharing space and expenses. Though they want to buy and own houses, $1,300 a month for a two-bedroom home is beyond their means. Finding suitable employment will help to improve this situation, as will locating more affordable housing, perhaps in more rural areas. ChesMRC Advancement Manager Dr. Lorelly Solano coordinates the Language and Cultural Competence Progra m, teaches ESL courses, teaches the Community Interpreter Course at Chesapeake College, and manages development, fundraising and communications. Organizations may request free presentations about Language and Cultural Competency, including such topics as immigrant stories, trends, assimilation, perspectives, history and challenges, learning English and Spanish and translating. The training helps us to better understand and accept our differences, become more aware and respectful of one other and better understand the immigrant experience around the world. ChesMRC accreditations include a Department of Justice Accredited Organization designation, which allows direct assistance, without the 68
can be made online at chesmrc.org or mailed to Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center, 331 E. Dover Street, PO Box 1990, Easton, MD 21601. For more information, visit the ChesMRC website or call 410786-1120. ChesMRC is open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The community is welcome to tour the new facilities and to talk to staff on the progress they are making and their plans for the future. Services, presentations and training are available to all.
ChesMRC is a non-profit, taxexempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) and a public charity under section 170 (b) (A) (vi) of the Internal Revenue Code. The organization is grateful to its donors and runs on 90% donations with a few small grants for youth programming. During this holiday season and year-round, we hope you will consider donating to worthy organizations and add ChesMRC to your giftgiving list. Donations are needed to continue providing much-needed services to an increasing number of local families, to expand services in the future, to provide more community education and language programs, and to establish a ChesMRC community center. Contributions
Bonna L. Nelson is a Bay-area writer, columnist, photographer and world traveler. She resides in Easton with her husband, John.
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Spices Spark the Season also, that spices can be stored in the freezer. When I lived in Oxford, my family would often make wild game the entrĂŠe. It is a delicacy to enjoy during the holiday season, whether you bring it home yourself or share in the bounty of a friend or neighbor. That is exactly what Harold Jump did ~ as a friend, he shared his bounty with us, his neighbors. His recipe is wonderful and full of spices to enjoy!
Step into many homes during the holiday season and you’ll know why cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg are popular spices. When they are baked into rice dishes and holiday cookies, simmered in hot fruit casseroles or mixed into bowls of potpourri, these wonderful spices are most inviting. To keep your spices from losing their fragrance, be sure to store them in airtight containers away from heat or light. Remember,
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Spices Spark the Season HAROLD’S WILD GOOSE 1 goose 1 cup wine 1/2 cup wine vinegar 1 t. sea salt 1 t. freshly ground pepper 1 t. ginger (fresh or powdered) 2 oranges, squeezed, including the rind 1 onion, quartered 1 t. ground or whole cloves 1 apple, quartered 3 stalks celery
Rice is a pantry staple that pairs wonderfully with meat and poultry. The first time I had raisins with rice was at my Aunt Martha’s house, and I thought it was such a nice addition! As an added bonus, this can be made a day or two before Christmas.
Rinse the goose thoroughly with water; pat dry. Stuff cavity with apple and celery. Close cavity with skewers. Place goose, breast side up, in a roasting pan. Combine wine, wine vinegar, salt, pepper, ginger, oranges and cloves and mix well. Pour over goose and bake, covered, at 350° for 2 hours. Bake an additional 30 minutes without lid to brown. Baste every 15 minutes. Use essence for gravy. * Tip: To mince fresh ginger easily, first peel the outer layer with a knife or vegetable peeler. Then cut into narrow strips and mince, rocking the blade across the ginger strips. One tablespoon of fresh ginger equals one-half teaspoon of powdered or ground ginger.
1 medium onion, chopped 3/4 cup celery, chopped 1 T. butter 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice 2 cups chicken broth 1/2 cup raisins 2 T. honey 1 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/2 t. sea salt 1/4 t. cinnamon 1/4 t. freshly ground pepper Sauté onion and celery in butter in a large skillet until crisp-tender. Bring chicken broth and rice to a boil in a large pan. Cover, reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes
RICE WITH SPICE Serves 6 72
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Spices Spark the Season or until rice is tender. Stir in the remaining ingredients. Spoon into a greased 2-quart casserole. Cover and bake at 350° for 30 minutes. ROASTED ACORN SQUASH Serves 8 This is one of my favorite side dishes in the fall. 4 acorn squash 1/2 cup pure maple syrup 1 stick butter 1 t. ground cinnamon 1/2 t. ground cloves Sea salt to taste Preheat the oven to 350°. Wash each acorn squash well, then trim the top and bottom off the squash and cut in half. Scoop out the inner seeds and strings with a melon baller. Lay the squash halves on the f lat side and cut into 1-inch-thick slices. Make maple butter syrup by combining maple syrup, butter, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Microwave for a minute until the butter
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Spices Spark the Season is melted, then stir it together and brush onto the acorn squash slices. There should be enough butter to coat both sides of each squash slice. Roast the acorn squash slices for 30 minutes on the first side, then f lip them and roast for another 30 minutes or until squash is soft and golden. MOM’S HOT FRUIT CASSEROLE Winter months are ideal for using canned fruits. Because the canned versions are already cooked, you save time as well. This is delicious with goose, pork, chicken or turkey. Keeps well for several days.
in alternate layers in a large, deep casserole dish. In top of double boiler, combine butter, sugar, f lour and sherry. Cook, stirring frequently, over hot water until smooth and thickened. Pour over fruit in casserole. Cover and let stand in refrigerator overnight. Before serving, heat in 350° oven until hot and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
1 medium can sliced pineapple 1 medium can peach halves 1 jar apple rings 1 medium can pear halves 1 medium can apricot halves 1 T. f lour 1/4 cup brown sugar (this amount depends on the sweetness of the fruit) 1/2 stick butter 1 cup sherry (sounds like too much, but it isn’t). Optional if making for children.
CR ANBERRY SALSA Makes 1 ¾ cups 1-1/2 cups fresh cranberries 1 t. grated orange rind 1 orange, peeled and chopped 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced 1/2 cup sugar
Drain all the fruit. Cut pineapple slices in halves, also peaches if they are very large. Arrange fruit 76
2-4 T. fresh orange juice 1/4 t. ground allspice 1/4 t. salt 2 t. extra virgin olive oil Pulse cranberries in a food processor 5-6 times until coarsely chopped, and place in a bowl. Stir in orange rind and remaining ingredients. Cover and chill 8 hours. GINGER OATMEAL COOKIES Naudain Sellers gave me this cookie recipe when I started my Pudding on the Ritz Cooking School. They remain a Christmas favorite. 3/4 cup butter 1/2 cup brown packed)
sugar
(firmly
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by level tablespoons on lightly greased cookie sheets, placing dough about 3 inches apart. Bake at 350° for 8 minutes or until browned. Cool for 1 minute; remove from sheet and cool completely on wire racks. Note: These chewy-crisp cookies will stay fresh for 2 weeks in airtight containers.
1/2 cup sugar 1 egg 1/4 cup molasses 1-1/2 cups f lour 1-1/2 t. baking soda 1/2 t. salt 1 t. cinnamon 3/4 t. ginger 1/4 t. cloves 2 cups quick oats
EASTERN SHORE SWEET POTATO PIE Yields 2 pies A warm slice of this pie adds a sweet finish to any holiday meal.
In a bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until creamy; beat in the egg and molasses until smooth. Sift together f lour, soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves and ginger. Stir in the oatmeal. Blend thoroughly into butter mixture. Drop
2 cups cooked, mashed sweet potatoes 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 15-ounce can evaporated milk 3 eggs 1/2 t. ground ginger 1 t. ground cinnamon 1/2 t. ground nutmeg 1/4 t. ground cloves
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1 t. salt 1 cup vegetable oil 1/3 cup milk
1/4 t. sea salt No-roll pie crusts Preheat oven to 375°. Blend all ingredients in large mixing bowl; beat until light and f luffy. Pour into pre-baked no-roll pie crusts and bake on bottom shelf until firm and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean ~ approximately 45 minutes. Let cool on a rack. Cut and serve when cool.
Put all ingredients in large bowl. Mix gently to combine. Divide in half and place each half in regular 9” pie pan. Pat out evenly. Push the pastry up the sides and form a nice edge with your thumb and finger. Prick the crust with a fork to pre-
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Spices Spark the Season
always well received. 1/2 gallon apple cider 1 cup brown sugar 2 cups orange juice 2 cups lemonade 2 t. whole allspice Cinnamon sticks Orange slices, studded with cloves
vent bubbling of the pastry during baking. Bake in preheated 350° oven for 15 minutes. Remove, cool and fill. Note: To make a pumpkin pie, substitute an equal amount of cooked, mashed pumpkin for sweet potatoes. To bake fresh pumpkin for pumpkin pie, purchase a small cooking pumpkin that weighs about 2-1/2 pounds. Wash the pumpkin, and cut in half crosswise. Place halves cut side down, on a 15 x 10 x 1-inch jellyroll pan. Bake at 325° for 45 minutes or until fork tender; cool 10 minutes. Peel pumpkin, and discard seeds. Puree pulp in a food processor.
Combine apple cider, orange juice, lemonade and brown sugar in a large saucepan. Tie cloves, allspice and cinnamon sticks; add to cider mixture. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Remove spices, add juices. Simmer until heated. Serve with cinnamon stick stirrers. Pour punch into a heatproof punch bowl and f loat orange slices. Note: If you have a percolator coffee pot, combine the liquids and brown sugar in a large container. Stir to dissolve sugar, then pour into the bottom of the percolator. Insert basket and place the spices in the basket. As it perks, the f lavors will be distributed.
WASSAIL Makes 3 quarts The Oxford Community Center made this for Christmas Holiday Homes Tours in Oxford, and it was
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TIDEWATER GARDENING
by K. Marc Teffeau, Ph.D.
Maple as a Houseplant and Holiday Greenery spp., it is called a f lowering maple because the plant’s leaves are similar in appearance to maple leaves. Other names for the plant are Chinese bellf lower or Chinese lantern and Indian Mallow. Abutilons are native to southern Brazil and are commonly found throughout the
A very interesting subtropical shrub known as a f lowering maple can be grown as a houseplant. I was introduced to this plant back in the spring by a fellow Master Gardener when she asked me to identify it. Known as the f lowering maple houseplant, a.k.a. Abutilon
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North Carolina, as part of the Garden Writers Association regional tour. Several different cultivars of the f lowering maple were in the Biltmore greenhouse, including an heirloom variety that Biltmore had bred named ‘Biltmore Ballgown’. Although called f lowering maple because of the shape of their leaves, these plants are unrelated to maple tree species (Acer spp). The genus Abutilon is a large group of more than 200 species of f lowering plants in the mallow family (Malvaceae). The mallow family includes well-known plants like cotton, hibiscus, hollyhocks, okra, rose of Sharon and the marsh mallows that we find in the wetland areas on the ’Shore. Besides being grown as houseplants, these shrub-like plants can be used as annuals in the landscape and as container plants during the warm growing season, where they will bloom from June Being a member of the mallow family, the f lowering maple houseplant also has blooms similar in shape to hibiscus f lowers. If you
South and Central Americas. An old-fashioned plant that fell out of favor with gardeners, Abutilons were popular during the Victorian era, hence another name, “Parlor Maple.” These f lowering plants were the first of the “softer” plants to be grown in chilly Victorian parlors. I came across the plant again in October when Linda and I were on a tour of the Biltmore Estate Gardens in Asheville,
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branch tips on the current season’s growth. The lantern-like buds open to cup- or bell-shaped f lowers up to 3 inches in diameter. It is interesting to note that variegated foliage results from a virus that does not harm the plant. The AMV ~ Abutilon Mosaic Virus ~ is transmitted by seed, grafting and, in nature, by the Brazilian whitefly. An easy plant to grow indoors, the Abutilon’s light requirements range from full sun to very light shade. Flowering maples need a well-drained peat-based potting soil. They do not require fertilization over the winter. Watering requirements indoors are to keep the soil slightly moist but not overwater. Usually only a monthly watering is needed during the winter. The Abutilon f lowering maple tends to get rangy. To prevent this from happening, pinch the tops of the branches in the spring to encourage a more compact habit. Flowering maple may be used as a container patio plant during warm months and then brought in to overwinter as a houseplant.
want to grow the plant as an annual in the landscape, it does well in full sun to partial shade. It also does well in a cool outdoor summer garden where the colorful blooms stand out. Most species require moderate watering, although some just need a little water. Flowering maples also do well outside during the growing season as hanging basket plants. Extensive breeding efforts with a few species of this plant have produced a variety of beautiful cultivars with lovely bell-shaped f lower colors of orange, salmon, red, white, yellow and bicolored. Some of the cultivars also have variegated foliage. The generally solitary, pendent f lowers are borne on long stems from leaf axils or near the 86
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Choose the smaller-growing cultivars for houseplants. Temperature-wise these plants prefer a cooler room during the winter. Pest-wise, f lowering maples are not known to have any significant insect or disease problems outdoors in the landscape. As houseplants, they can be susceptible to the usual list of pests, such as aphids, mealybugs, scales, whitef lies and spider mites. If one of these pests shows up on the plant, treat it as you would usually treat a houseplant pest. If you would like to propagate your Abutilon, it roots easily from stem-tip cuttings. A rooting hormone will increase your chances of success. Take cuttings in the spring
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grow more vigorously and have a better bloom set. There are a number of Abutilon cultivars available to choose from. They include ‘Canary Bird’, ‘Fireball’, ‘Boile ne Negie’, ‘Kirsten’s Pink’, the ‘Bella’ series and ‘Kentish Belle’. If you are interested in plants with speckled and variegated foliage, look for cultivars A. straitum thompsonii or ‘Souvenir de Bonn’. Back in the outside landscape, December is a good time to do pruning on narrow- and broadleafed evergreens for holiday decorations. Properly done, pruning can provide you with the needed greens and benefit your plants at the same time. The objectives of
and place in seed-starting soil in a warm, bright room. One recommendation is to take new cuttings of the plant every three years to start new plants and then get rid of the older plants. However, other information sources on the plant note that with proper pruning, there’s no reason you can’t keep an Abutilon houseplant thriving for many years. Young f lowering maples tend to grow fast. As a result, they may need to be repotted a few times a year. The general recommendation is to repot at the beginning of the growing season and again midseason. Older plants tend to do better being somewhat pot-bound, as this tends to encourage them to
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inches. Obtain the larger pieces by removing unwanted branches and by severe heading back of vigorous growth. Foundation plantings, for example, should have an air space between each other and between each plant and the house. This often requires the removal or hard pruning of some branches. Doing such pruning now is a good way to get the longer greens you want. Short pieces of plant material are obtained by a type of pruning called tipping. This, as the name suggests, is the removal of the tip of the shoot. Tipping accomplishes two things: it shortens the branch while also forcing growth of side branches, thus producing a more compact plant. Done with a pair of hand shears or a pruning knife, tipping should provide you with all the four- to six-inch pieces of greenery you need for decorating and leave a very natural-looking plant in the process. Tipping done
pruning are to improve a plant’s symmetry and natural form, to promote better balanced and healthier growth, and to control the height or spread of the plant. Always make your pruning cut at a joint in a branch so that the remaining leaves cover and hide the cut. Pruned in this way, any plant can be shaped without the appearance of having just received a scalp job. Both needle and broadleaf evergreens make attractive Christmas decorations. You may need a few branches that are 12 to 15 inches long, but most materials for both centerpieces and wreaths need to be no longer than four to six 90
also very satisfactory. All the spruces make excellent wreaths, but the Colorado Blue spruce holds its needles better than the Norway. In pruning the larger evergreens like pine and spruce, get your greens by removing unneeded branches. Both pine and spruce will respond to tipping, but use more care with the spruces and don’t
with a pair of electric hedge shears may give you greens, but it produces the unnaturally shaped plant that sometimes appear in the front yards of homeowners who don`t understand how to prune. Any evergreen can be used for Christmas greenery, but some kinds are better than others. Boxwood, with its dense, fine texture is especially popular. But many Japanese hollies are a good substitute. All the hollies ~ American, English and Chinese ~ are excellent for use as greenery, and they have the desirable red or orange berries, depending on the species and cultivar. Of the pines, the fine, flexible bright green needles of the white pine are best. But other pines are
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Both yews and junipers are also good sources of greenery. The dark green needles of the yew are especially good, and the plants tolerate pruning well. The evergreen magnolia is one of the most handsome of cut greens. Prune these carefully so as not to leave branch stubs on the tree. Even rhododendrons can be pruned now for holiday decorations. Like the magnolia, prune them back to forked branches and leave a clean, smooth cut.
over prune. On older trees, it is possible to remove or tip side shoots without spoiling the plant’s basic symmetry.
Many rhododendrons need pruning anyway to keep them in scale with their setting and to keep them compact, so such pruning can be very beneficial. Avoid removing branches with flower buds if you are concerned about the number of blooms you’ll get next spring. Happy Gardening, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
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Dorchester Points of Interest
Š John Norton
Dorchester County is known as the Heart of the Chesapeake. It is rich in Chesapeake Bay history, folklore and tradition. With 1,700 miles of shoreline (more than any other Maryland county), marshlands, working boats, quaint waterfront towns and villages among fertile farm fields – much still exists of what is the authentic Eastern Shore landscape and traditional way of life along the Chesapeake. FREDERICK C. MALKUS MEMORIAL BRIDGE is the gateway to Dorchester County over the Choptank River. It is the second longest span 95
Dorchester Points of Interest bridge in Maryland after the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. A life-long resident of Dorchester County, Senator Malkus served in the Maryland State Senate from 1951 through 1994. Next to the Malkus Bridge is the 1933 Emerson C. Harrington Bridge. This bridge was replaced by the Malkus Bridge in 1987. Remains of the 1933 bridge are used as fishing piers on both the north and south bank of the river. HERITAGE MUSEUMS and GARDENS of DORCHESTER - Home of the Dorchester County Historical Society, Heritage Museum offers a range of local history and gardens on its grounds. The Meredith House, a 1760’s Georgian home, features artifacts and exhibits on the seven Maryland governors associated with the county; a child’s room containing antique dolls and toys; and other period displays. The Neild Museum houses a broad collection of agricultural, maritime, industrial, and Native American artifacts, including a McCormick reaper (invented by Cyrus McCormick in 1831). The Ron Rue exhibit pays tribute to a talented local decoy carver with a re-creation of his workshop. The Goldsborough Stable, circa 1790, includes a sulky, pony cart, horse-driven sleighs, and tools of the woodworker, wheelwright, and blacksmith. For more info. tel: 410-228-7953 or visit dorchesterhistory.org.
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DORCHESTER COUNTY VISITOR CENTER - The Visitors Center in Cambridge is a major entry point to the lower Eastern Shore, positioned just off U.S. Route 50 along the shore of the Choptank River. With its 100foot sail canopy, it’s also a landmark. In addition to travel information and exhibits on the heritage of the area, there’s also a large playground, garden, boardwalk, restrooms, vending machines, and more. The Visitors Center is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information about Dorchester County call 410-228-1000 or visit www.visitdorchester.org or www.tourchesapeakecountry.com. SAILWINDS PARK - Located at 202 Byrn St., Cambridge, Sailwinds Park has been the site for popular events such as the Seafood Feast-I-Val in August and the Grand National Waterfowl Hunt’s Grandtastic Jamboree in November. For more info. tel: 410-228-SAIL(7245) or visit www. sailwindscambridge.com. CAMBRIDGE CREEK - A tributary of the Choptank River, runs through the heart of Cambridge. Located along the creek are restaurants where you can watch watermen dock their boats after a day’s work on the waterways of Dorchester. HISTORIC HIGH STREET IN CAMBRIDGE - When James Michener was doing research for his novel Chesapeake, he reportedly called Cambridge’s High Street one of the most beautiful streets in America. He modeled his fictional city Patamoke after Cambridge. Many of the gracious homes on High Street date from the 1700s and 1800s. Today you can join a historic walking tour of High Street each Saturday at 11 a.m., April through October (weather permitting). For more info. tel: 410-901-1000. High Street is also known as one of the most haunted streets in Maryland. join a Chesapeake Ghost Walk to hear the stories. Find out more at www. chesapeakeghostwalks.com. SKIPJACK NATHAN OF DORCHESTER - Sail aboard the authentic skipjack Nathan of Dorchester, offering heritage cruises on the Choptank River. The Nathan is docked at Long Wharf in Cambridge. Dredge for oysters and hear the stories of the working waterman’s way of life. For more info. and schedules tel: 410-228-7141 or visit www.skipjack-nathan.org. CHOPTANK RIVER LIGHTHOUSE REPLICA - The replica of a six-sided screwpile lighthouse includes a small museum with exhibits about the original lighthouse’s history and the area’s maritime heritage. The lighthouse, located on Pier A at Long Wharf Park in Cambridge, is open daily, May through October, and by appointment, November through April; call 410-463-2653. For more info. visit www.choptankriverlighthouse.org. DORCHESTER CENTER FOR THE ARTS - Located at 321 High 97
Dorchester Points of Interest Street in Cambridge, the Center offers monthly gallery exhibits and shows, extensive art classes, and special events, as well as an artisans’ gift shop with an array of items created by local and regional artists. For more info. tel: 410-228-7782 or visit www.dorchesterarts.org. RICHARDSON MARITIME MUSEUM - Located at 401 High St., Cambridge, the Museum makes history come alive for visitors in the form of exquisite models of traditional Bay boats. The Museum also offers a collection of boatbuilders’ tools and watermen’s artifacts that convey an understanding of how the boats were constructed and the history of their use. The Museum’s Ruark Boatworks facility, located on Maryland Ave., is passing on the knowledge and skills of area boatwrights to volunteers and visitors alike. Watch boatbuilding and restoration in action. For more info. tel: 410-221-1871 or visit www.richardsonmuseum.org. HARRIET TUBMAN MUSEUM & EDUCATIONAL CENTER - The Museum and Educational Center is developing programs to preserve the history and memory of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday. Local tours by appointment are available. The Museum and Educational Center, located at 424 Race St., Cambridge, is one of the stops on the “Finding a Way to Freedom” self-guided driving tour. For more info. tel: 410-228-0401 or visit www. harriettubmanorganization.org. SPOCOTT WINDMILL - Since 1972, Dorchester County has had a fully operating English style post windmill that was expertly crafted by the late master shipbuilder, James B. Richardson. There has been a succession of windmills at this location dating back to the late 1700’s. The complex also includes an 1800 tenant house, one-room school, blacksmith shop, and country store museum. The windmill is located at 1625 Hudson Rd., Cambridge. For more info. visit www.spocottwindmill.org. HORN POINT LABORATORY - The Horn Point Laboratory offers public tours of this world-class scientific research laboratory, which is affiliated with the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science. The 90-minute walking tour shows how scientists are conducting research to restore the Chesapeake Bay. Horn Point Laboratory is located at 2020 Horns Point Rd., Cambridge, on the banks of the Choptank River. For more info. and tour schedule tel: 410-228-8200 or visit www.umces.edu/hpl. THE STANLEY INSTITUTE - This 19th century one-room African American schoolhouse, dating back to 1865, is one of the oldest Maryland schools to be organized and maintained by a black community. Between 98
1867 and 1962, the youth in the African-American community of Christ Rock attended this school, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tours available by appointment. The Stanley Institute is located at the intersection of Route 16 West & Bayly Rd., Cambridge. For more info. tel: 410-228-6657. OLD TRINITY CHURCH in Church Creek was built in the 17th century and perfectly restored in the 1950s. This tiny architectural gem continues to house an active congregation of the Episcopal Church. The old graveyard around the church contains the graves of the veterans of the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the American Civil War. This part of the cemetery also includes the grave of Maryland’s Governor Carroll and his daughter Anna Ella Carroll who was an advisor to Abraham Lincoln. The date of the oldest burial is not known because the wooden markers common in the 17th century have disappeared. For more info. tel: 410-228-2940 or visit www.oldtrinity.net. BUCKTOWN VILLAGE STORE - Visit the site where Harriet Tubman received a blow to her head that fractured her skull. From this injury Harriet believed God gave her the vision and directions that inspired her to guide so many to freedom. Artifacts include the actual newspaper ad offering a reward for Harriet’s capture. Historical tours, bicycle, canoe and kayak
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Dorchester Points of Interest rentals are available. Open upon request. The Bucktown Village Store is located at 4303 Bucktown Rd., Cambridge. For more info. tel: 410-901-9255. HARRIET TUBMAN BIRTHPLACE - “The Moses of her People,” Harriet Tubman was believed to have been born on the Brodess Plantation in Bucktown. There are no Tubman-era buildings remaining at the site, which today is a farm. Recent archeological work at this site has been inconclusive, and the investigation is continuing, although there is some evidence that points to Madison as a possible birthplace. HARRIET TUBMAN VISITOR CENTER - Located adjacent to the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center immerses visitors in Tubman’s world through informative, evocative and emotive exhibits. The immersive displays show how the landscape of the Choptank River region shaped her early years and the importance of her faith, family and community. The exhibits also feature information about Tubman’s life beginning with her childhood in Maryland, her emancipation from slavery, her time as a conductor on the Underground Railroad and her continuous advocacy for justice. For more info. visit dnr2. maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/eastern/tubman_visitorcenter.aspx.
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BLACKWATER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE - Located 12 miles south of Cambridge at 2145 Key Wallace Dr. With more than 25,000 acres of tidal marshland, it is an important stop along the Atlantic Flyway. Blackwater is currently home to the largest remaining natural population of endangered Delmarva fox squirrels and the largest breeding population of American bald eagles on the East Coast, north of Florida. There is a full service Visitor Center and a four-mile Wildlife Drive, walking trails and water trails. For more info. tel: 410-228-2677 or visit www.fws.gov/blackwater. EAST NEW MARKET - Originally settled in 1660, the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Follow a self-guided walking tour to see the district that contains almost all the residences of the original founders and offers excellent examples of colonial architecture. For more info. visit http://eastnewmarket.us. HURLOCK TRAIN STATION - Incorporated in 1892, Hurlock ranks as the second largest town in Dorchester County. It began from a Dorchester/ Delaware Railroad station built in 1867. The Old Train Station has been restored and is host to occasional train excursions. For more info. tel: 410943-4181. VIENNA HERITAGE MUSEUM - The museum displays the last surviving mother-of-pearl button manufacturing operation in the country,
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Dorchester Points of Interest as well as artifacts of local history. The museum is located at 303 Race, St., Vienna. For more info. tel: 410-943-1212 or visit www.viennamd.org. LAYTON’S CHANCE VINEYARD & WINERY - This small farm winery, minutes from historic Vienna at 4225 New Bridge Rd., offers daily tours of the winemaking operation. The family-oriented Layton’s also hosts a range of events, from a harvest festival to karaoke happy hour to concerts. For more info. tel. 410-228-1205 or visit www.laytonschance.com. HANDSELL HISTORIC SITE - Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, the site is used to interpret the native American contact period with the English, the slave and later African American story and the life of all those who lived at Handsell. The grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk. Visitors can view the exterior of the circa 1770/1837 brick house, currently undergoing preservation work. Nearby is the Chicone Village, a replica single-family dwelling complex of the Native People who once inhabited the site. Special living history events are held several times a year. Located at 4837 Indiantown Road, Vienna. For more info. tel: 410228-745 or visit www.restorehandsell.org.
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© John Norton
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Easton Points of Interest Historic Downtown Easton is the county seat of Talbot County. Established around early religious settlements and a court of law, today the historic district of Easton is a centerpiece of fine specialty shops, business and cultural activities, unique restaurants and architectural fascination. Tree-lined streets are graced with various period structures and remarkable homes, carefully preserved or restored. Because of its historical significance, Easton has earned distinction as the “Colonial Capital of the Eastern Shore” and was honored as #8 in the book, “The 100 Best Small Towns in America.” Walking Tour of Downtown Easton Start near the corner of Harrison Street and Mill Place. 1. HISTORIC TIDEWATER INN - 101 E. Dover St. A completely modern hotel built in 1949, it was enlarged in 1953 and has recently undergone extensive renovations. It is the “Pride of the Eastern Shore.” 2. THE BULLITT HOUSE - 108 E. Dover St. One of Easton’s oldest and most beautiful homes, it was built in 1801. It is now occupied by the Mid-Shore Community Foundation. 3. AVALON THEATRE - 42 E. Dover St. Constructed in 1921 during the heyday of silent films and vaudeville entertainment. Over the course of its history, it has been the scene of three world premiers, including “The First Kiss,” starring Fay Wray and Gary Cooper, in 1928. The theater has gone through two major restorations: the first in 1936, when it was refinished in an art deco theme by the Schine Theater chain, and again 52 years later, when it was converted to a performing arts and community center. For more info. tel: 410-822-0345 or visit avalontheatre.com. 4. TALBOT COUNTY VISITORS CENTER - 11 S. Harrison St. The Office of Tourism provides visitors with county information for historic Easton and the waterfront villages of Oxford, St. Michaels and Tilghman Island. For more info. tel: 410-770-8000 or visit tourtalbot.org. 5. BARTLETT PEAR INN - 28 S. Harrison St. Significant for its architecture, it was built by Benjamin Stevens in 1790 and is one of Easton’s earliest three-bay brick buildings. The home was “modernized” with Victorian bay windows on the right side in the 1890s. 6. WATERFOWL BUILDING - 40 S. Harrison St. The old armory is 105
Easton Points of Interest now the headquarters of the Waterfowl Festival, Easton’s annual celebration of migratory birds and the hunting season, the second weekend in November. For more info. tel: 410-822-4567 or visit waterfowlfestival.org. 7. ACADEMY ART MUSEUM - 106 South St. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the Academy Art Museum is a fine art museum founded in 1958. Providing national and regional exhibitions, performances, educational programs, and visual and performing arts classes for adults and children, the Museum also offers a vibrant concert and lecture series and seasonal events. The Museum’s permanent collection consists of works on paper and contemporary works by American and European masters. Mon. through Thurs. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. First Friday of each month open until 7 p.m. For more info. tel: (410) 822-ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. 8. CHRIST CHURCH - St. Peter’s Parish, 111 South Harrison St. Founded in 1692, the Parish’s church building is one of the many historic landmarks of downtown Easton. The current building was erected in the early 1840’s of Port Deposit granite and an addition on the south end was completed in 1874. Since that time there have been many improve-
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Easton Points of Interest ments and updates, but none as extensive as the restoration project which began in September 2014. For service times contact 410-822-2677 or christchurcheaston.org. 9. TALBOT HISTORICAL SOCIET Y - Located in the heart of Easton’s historic district. Enjoy an evocative portrait of everyday life during earlier times when visiting the c. 18th and 19th century historic houses, all of which surround a Federal-style garden. For more info. tel: 410-822-0773 or visit hstc.org. 10. ODD FELLOWS LODGE - At the corner of Washington and Dover streets stands a building with secrets. It was constructed in 1879 as the meeting hall for the Odd Fellows. Carved into the stone and placed into the stained glass are images and symbols that have meaning only for members. See if you can find the dove, linked rings and other symbols. 11. TALBOT COUNTY COURTHOUSE - Long known as the “East Capital” of Maryland. The present building was completed in 1794 on the site of the earlier one built in 1711. It has been remodeled several times. 11A. FREDERICK DOUGLASS STATUE - 11 N. Washington St. on the lawn of the Talbot County Courthouse. The statue honors Fred-
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Easton Points of Interest erick Douglass in his birthplace, Talbot County, where the experiences in his youth ~ both positive and negative ~ helped form his character, intellect and determination. Also on the grounds is a memorial to the veterans who fought and died in the Vietnam War, and a monument “To the Talbot Boys,” commemorating the men from Talbot who fought for the Confederacy. The memorial for the Union soldiers was never built. 12. SHANNAHAN & WRIGHTSON HARDWARE BUILDING 12 N. Washington St. It is the oldest store in Easton. In 1791, Owen Kennard began work on a new brick building that changed hands several times throughout the years. Dates on the building show when additions were made in 1877, 1881 and 1889. The present front was completed in time for a grand opening on Dec. 7, 1941 - Pearl Harbor Day. 13. THE BRICK HOTEL - northwest corner of Washington and Federal streets. Built in 1812, it became the Eastern Shore’s leading hostelry. When court was in session, plaintiffs, defendants and lawyers all came to town and shared rooms in hotels such as this. Frederick Douglass stayed in the Brick Hotel when he came back after the Civil War and gave a speech in the courthouse. It is now The Prager Building.
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14. THOMAS PERRIN SMITH HOUSE - 119 N. Washington St. Built in 1803, it was the early home of the newspaper from which the StarDemocrat grew. In 1911, the building was acquired by the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Club, which occupies it today. 15. ART DECO STORES - 13-25 Goldsborough Street. Although much of Easton looks Colonial or Victorian, the 20th century had its inf luences as well. This row of stores has distinctive 1920s-era white trim at the roof line. It is rumored that there was a speakeasy here during Prohibition. 16. FIRST MASONIC GR AND LODGE - 23 N. Harrison Street. The records of Coats Lodge of Masons in Easton show that five Masonic Lodges met in Talbot Court House (as Easton was then called) on July 31, 1783 to form the first Grand Lodge of Masons in Maryland. Although the building where they first met is gone, a plaque marks the spot today. This completes your walking tour. 17. FOXLEY HALL - 24 N. Aurora St., Built about 1795, Foxley Hall is one of the best-known of Easton’s Federal dwellings. Former home of Oswald Tilghman, great-grandson of Lt. Col. Tench Tilghman. (Private) 18. TRINITY EPISCOPAL CATHEDR AL - On “Cathedral Green,”
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Easton Points of Interest Goldsborough St., a traditional Gothic design in granite. The interior is well worth a visit. All windows are stained glass, picturing New Testament scenes, and the altar cross of Greek type is unique. For more info. tel: 410-822-1931 or visit trinitycathedraleaston.com. 19. 202 DOVER - Built in 1874, this Victorian-era mansion ref lects many architectural styles. For years the building was known as the Wrightson House, thanks to its early 20th century owner, Charles T. Wrightson, one of the founders of the S. & W. canned food empire. Locally it is still referred to as Captain’s Watch due to its prominent balustraded widow’s walk. The Inn’s renovation in 2006 was acknowledged by the Maryland Historic Trust and the U.S. Dept. of the Interior. 20. TALBOT COUNTY FREE LIBRARY - Housed in an attractively remodeled building on West Street, the hours of operation are Mon. and Thurs., 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tues. and Wed. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fri. and Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcf l.org. 21. U. of M. SHORE MEDICAL CENTER AT EASTON - Established in the early 1900s as the Memorial Hospital, now a member of University of Maryland Shore Regional Health System. For more info.
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tel: 410-822-100 or visit umshoreregional.org. 22. THIRD HAVEN FRIENDS MEETING HOUSE (Quaker). Built 1682-84, this is the earliest documented building in MD and probably the oldest Quaker Meeting House in the U.S. William Penn and many other historical figures have worshiped here. In continuous use since it was built, today it is still home to an active Friends’ community. Visitors welcome; group tours available on request. thirdhaven.org. 23. TALBOT COMMUNITY CENTER - The year-round activities offered at the community center range from ice hockey to figure skating, aerobics and curling. The Center is also host to many events throughout the year, such as antique, craft, boating and sportsman shows. Near Easton 24. PICKERING CREEK - 400-acre farm and science education center featuring 100 acres of forest, a mile of shoreline, nature trails, low-ropes challenge course and canoe launch. Trails are open seven days a week from dawn till dusk. Canoes are free for members. For more info. tel: 410-822-4903 or visit pickeringcreek.org. 25. WYE GRIST MILL - The oldest working mill in Maryland (ca. 1682), the f lour-producing “grist” mill has been lovingly preserved by The Friends of Wye Mill, and grinds f lour to this day using two massive
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Easton Points of Interest grindstones powered by a 26 horsepower overshot waterwheel. For more info. visit oldwyemill.org. 26. W YE ISL A ND NATUR AL RESOURCE MA NAGEMENT AREA - Located between the Wye River and the Wye East River, the area provides habitat for waterfowl and native wildlife. There are 6 miles of trails that provide opportunities for hiking, birding and wildlife viewing. For more info. visit dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/eastern/wyeisland.asp. 27. OLD WYE CHURCH - Old Wye Church is one of the oldest active Anglican Communion parishes in Talbot County. Wye Chapel was built between 1718 and 1721 and opened for worship on October 18, 1721. For more info. visit wyeparish.org. 28. WHITE MARSH CHURCH - The original structure was built before 1690. Early 18th century rector was the Reverend Daniel Maynadier. A later provincial rector (1764–1768), the Reverend Thomas Bacon, compiled “Bacon’s Laws,” authoritative compendium of Colonial Statutes. Robert Morris, Sr., father of Revolutionary financier is buried here.
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St. Michaels Points of Interest
© John Norton
On the broad Miles River, with its picturesque tree-lined streets and beautiful harbor, St. Michaels has been a haven for boats plying the Chesapeake and its inlets since the earliest days. Here, some of the handsomest models of the Bay craft, such as canoes, bugeyes, pungys and some famous Baltimore Clippers, were designed and built. The Church, named “St. Michael’s,” was the first building erected (about 1677) and around it clustered the town that took its name. 1. WADES POINT INN - Located on a point of land overlooking majestic Chesapeake Bay, this historic inn has been welcoming guests for over 100 years. Thomas Kemp, builder of the original “Pride of Baltimore,” built the main house in 1819. For more info. visit www.wadespoint.com. 117
St. Michaels Points of Interest 2. LINKS AT PERRY CABIN - Located on the scenic Miles River with an 18 hole golf course - Links at Perry Cabin. For more info. visit www. innatperrycabin.com. 3. MILES RIVER YACHT CLUB - Organized in 1920, the Miles River Yacht Club continues its dedication to boating on our waters and the protection of the heritage of log canoes, the oldest class of boat still sailing U. S. waters. The MRYC has been instrumental in preserving the log canoe and its rich history on the Chesapeake Bay. For more info. visit www.milesriveryc.org. 4. INN AT PERRY CABIN - The original building was constructed in the early 19th century by Samuel Hambleton, a purser in the United States Navy during the War of 1812. It was named for his friend, Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Perry Cabin has served as a riding academy and was restored in 1980 as an inn and restaurant. For more info. visit www.innatperrycabin.com. 5. THE PARSONAGE INN - A bed and breakfast inn at 210 N. Talbot St., was built by Henry Clay Dodson, a prominent St. Michaels businessman and state legislator around 1883 as his private residence. In 1877, Dodson,
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St. Michaels Points of Interest along with Joseph White, established the St. Michaels Brick Company, which later provided the brick for the house. For more info. visit www. parsonage-inn.com. 6. FREDERICK DOUGLASS HISTORIC MARKER - Born at Tuckahoe Creek, Talbot County, Douglass lived as a slave in the St. Michaels area from 1833 to 1836. He taught himself to read and taught in clandestine schools for blacks here. He escaped to the north and became a noted abolitionist, orator and editor. He returned in 1877 as a U.S. Marshal for the District of Columbia and also served as the D.C. Recorder of Deeds and the U.S. Minister to Haiti. 7. CHESAPEAKE BAY MARITIME MUSEUM - Founded in 1965, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of the hemisphere’s largest and most productive estuary - the Chesapeake Bay. Located on 18 waterfront acres, its nine exhibit buildings and floating fleet bring to life the story of the Bay and its inhabitants, from the fully restored 1879 Hooper Strait lighthouse and working boatyard to the impressive collection of working decoys and a recreated waterman’s shanty. Home to the world’s largest collection of Bay boats, the Museum regularly
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St. Michaels Points of Interest hosts temporary exhibitions, special events, festivals, and education programs. Docking and pump-out facilities available. Exhibitions and Museum Store open year-round. Up-to-date information and hours can be found on the Museum’s website at www.cbmm.org or by calling 410-745-2916. 8. THE CRAB CLAW - Restaurant adjoining the Maritime Museum and overlooking St. Michaels harbor. Open March-November. 410-7452900 or www.thecrabclaw.com. 9. PATRIOT - During the season (April-November) the 65’ cruise boat can carry 150 persons, runs daily historic narrated cruises along the Miles River. For daily cruise times, visit www.patriotcruises.com or call 410-745-3100. 10. THE FOOTBRIDGE - Built on the site of many earlier bridges, today’s bridge joins Navy Point to Cherry Street. It has been variously known as “Honeymoon Bridge” and “Sweetheart Bridge.” It is the only remaining bridge of three that at one time connected the town with outlying areas around the harbor. 11. VICTORIANA INN - The Victoriana Inn is located in the Historic District of St. Michaels. The home was built in 1873 by Dr. Clay Dodson, a druggist, and occupied as his private residence and office. In 1910 the property, then known as “Willow Cottage,” underwent alterations when acquired by the Shannahan family who continued it as a private residence for over 75 years. As a bed and breakfast, circa 1988, major renovations took place, preserving the historic character of the gracious Victorian era. For more info. visit www.victorianainn.com. 12. HAMBLETON INN - On the harbor. Historic waterfront home built in 1860 and restored as a bed and breakfast in 1985 with a turn-ofthe-century atmosphere. For more info. visit www.hambletoninn.com. 13. SNUGGERY B&B - Oldest residence in St. Michaels, c. 1665.The structure incorporates the remains of a log home that was originally built on the beach and later moved to its present location. www.snuggery1665.com. 14. LOCUST STREET - A stroll down Locust Street is a look into the past of St. Michaels. The Haddaway House at 103 Locust St. was built by Thomas L. Haddaway in the late 1700s. Haddaway owned and operated the shipyard at the foot of the street. Wickersham, at 203 Locust Street, was built in 1750 and was moved to its present location in 2004. It is known for its glazed brickwork. Hell’s Crossing is the intersection of Locust and Carpenter streets and is so-named because in the late 1700’s, the town was described as a rowdy one, in keeping with a port town where sailors 122
would come for a little excitement. They found it in town, where there were saloons and working-class townsfolk ready to do business with them. Fights were common especially in an area of town called Hells Crossing. At the end of Locust Street is Muskrat Park. It provides a grassy spot on the harbor for free summer concerts and is home to the two cannons that are replicas of the ones given to the town by Jacob Gibson in 1813 and confiscated by Federal troops at the beginning of the Civil War. 15. FREEDOMS FRIEND LODGE - Chartered in 1867 and constructed in 1883, the Freedoms Friend Lodge is the oldest lodge existing in Maryland and is a prominent historic site for our Black community. It is now the site of Blue Crab Coffee Company. 16. TALBOT COUNTY FREE LIBRARY - St. Michaels Branch is located at 106 S. Fremont Street. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit www.tcfl.org. 17. CARPENTER STREET SALOON - Life in the Colonial community revolved around the tavern. The traveler could, of course, obtain food, drink, lodging or even a fresh horse to speed his journey. This tavern was built in 1874 and has served the community as a bank, a newspaper office, post office and telephone company. For more info. visit www. carpenterstreetsaloon.com.
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St. Michaels Points of Interest 18. TWO SWAN INN - The Two Swan Inn on the harbor served as the former site of the Miles River Yacht Club, was built in the 1800s and was renovated in 1984. It is located at the foot of Carpenter Street. For more info. visit www.twoswaninn.com. 19. TARR HOUSE - Built by Edward Elliott as his plantation home about 1661. It was Elliott and an indentured servant, Darby Coghorn, who built the first church in St. Michaels. This was about 1677, on the site of the present Episcopal Church (6 Willow Street, near Locust). 20. CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH - 301 S. Talbot St. Built of Port Deposit stone, the present church was erected in 1878. The first is believed to have been built in 1677 by Edward Elliott. For more info. tel: 410-745-9076. 21. THE OLD BRICK INN - Built in 1817 by Wrightson Jones, who opened and operated the shipyard at Beverly on Broad Creek. (Talbot St. at Mulberry). For more info. visit www.oldbrickinn.com. 22. THE CANNONBALL HOUSE - When St. Michaels was shelled by the British in a night attack in 1813, the town was “blacked out” and lanterns were hung in the trees to lead the attackers to believe the town was on a high bluff. The houses were overshot. The story is that a canGift a Piece of Italy this Year! Custom Gift Baskets in All Price Ranges We Deliver Locally We Ship Anywhere in the U.S. (except alcohol) Wine • Liqueurs • Food • Gifts • Chocolates Ceramics • Ornaments • And More! Customer Appreciation Event Saturday Nov. 30th All Day 10 Lo % Disc cals Eve ount ry D ay!
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St. Michaels Points of Interest nonball hit the chimney of “Cannonball House” and rolled down the stairway. This “blackout” was believed to be the first such “blackout” in the history of warfare. 23. AMELIA WELBY HOUSE - Amelia Coppuck, who became Amelia Welby, was born in this house and wrote poems that won her fame and the praise of Edgar Allan Poe. 24. ST. MICHAELS MUSEUM at ST. MARY’S SQUARE - Located in the heart of the historic district, offers a unique view of 19th century life in St. Michaels. The exhibits are housed in three period buildings and contain local furniture and artifacts donated by residents. The museum is supported entirely through community efforts. For more info. tel: 410745-9561 or www.stmichaelsmuseum.org. 25. GR ANITE LODGE #177 - Located on St. Mary’s Square, Granite Lodge was built in 1839. The building stands on the site of the first Methodist Church in St. Michaels on land donated to the Methodists by James Braddock in 1781. Between then and now, the building has served variously as a church, schoolhouse and as a storehouse for muskrat skins. 26. KEMP HOUSE - Now a country inn. A Georgian style house,
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St. Michaels Points of Interest constructed in 1805 by Colonel Joseph Kemp, a revolutionary soldier and hero of the War of 1812. For more info. visit www.oldbrickinn.com. 27. THE OLD MILL COMPLEX - The Old Mill was a functioning flour mill from the late 1800s until the 1970s, producing f lour used primarily for Maryland beaten biscuits. Today it is home to a brewery, distillery, artists, furniture makers, and other unique shops and businesses. 28. CLASSIC MOTOR MUSEUM - Located at 102 E. Marengo Street, the Classic Motor Museum is a living museum of classic automobiles, motorcycles, and other forms of transportation, and providing educational resources to classic car enthusiasts. For more info. visit classicmotormuseum.org. 29. ST. MICHAELS HARBOUR INN, MARINA & SPA - Constructed in 1986 and recently renovated. For more info. visit www.harbourinn.com. 30. ST. MICHAELS NATURE TRAIL - This 1.3 mile paved walkway winds around the western side of St. Michaels starting at a dedicated parking lot on South Talbot Street. The path cuts through the woods, San Domingo Park, over a covered bridge and ending in Bradley Park. The trail is open all year from dawn to dusk.
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Oxford Points of Interest Oxford is one of the oldest towns in Maryland. Although already settled for perhaps 20 years, Oxford marks the year 1683 as its official founding, for in that year Oxford was first named by the Maryland General Assembly as a seaport and was laid out as a town. In 1694, Oxford and a new town called Anne Arundel (now Annapolis) were selected the only ports of entry for the entire Maryland province. Until the American Revolution, Oxford enjoyed prominence as an international shipping center surrounded by wealthy tobacco plantations. Today, Oxford is a charming tree-lined and waterbound village with a population of just over 700 and is still important in boat building and yachting. It has a protected harbor for watermen who harvest oysters, crabs, clams and fish, and for sailors from all over the Bay. 1. JOHN WESLEY METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH - Built on a tiny patch of land outside Oxford, this unassuming one-room building without a steeple and without indoor plumbing, once served as an im-
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Oxford Points of Interest portant place of worship and gathering for generations of Talbot County African-Americans. It was an abolitionist and integrated church community in a county which was slave-holding since 1770. Talbot County was at the center of both legal manumission (the freeing of a slave) and Fugitive Slave Act enforcement. The African American community was 50% free and 50% enslaved. It was also the center of Union recruitment of slaves for the U.S. Colored Troops. For more info. visit johnwesleychurch.org. 2. OXFORD CONSERVATION PARK - The park’s 86 acres stretch out on the southern side of state Route 333, near Boone Creek Road, and features walking trails, wetland viewing areas, native bird species, and open landscapes. 3. TENCH TILGHMAN MONUMENT - In the Oxford Cemetery the Revolutionary War hero’s body lies along with that of his widow. Lt. Col. Tench Tilghman, who was Gen. George Washington’s aide-de-camp, carried the message of Cornwallis’ surrender from Yorktown, VA, to the Continental Congress in Philadelphia. Across the cove from the cemetery may be seen Plimhimmon, home of Tench Tilghman’s widow, Anna Maria Tilghman.
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Oxford Points of Interest 4. THE OXFORD COMMUNITY CENTER - This former, pillared brick schoolhouse was saved from the wrecking ball by the town residents. Now it is a gathering place for meetings, classes, lectures, and performances by the Tred Avon Players and has been recently renovated. Rentals available to groups and individuals. 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 5. THE COOPERATIVE OXFORD LABORATORY - U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Maryland Department of Natural Resources located here. 410-226-5193 or visit dnr.state.md.us/fisheries/oxford. 6. U.S. COAST GUARD STATION - 410-226-0580. 7. CHURCH OF THE HOLY TRINITY - Founded in 1851. Designed by esteemed British architect Richard Upton, co-founder of the American Institute of Architects. It features beautiful stained glass windows by the acclaimed Willet Studios of Philadelphia. 410-226-5134 or visit holytrinityoxfordmd.org 8. OXFORD TOWN PARK - Former site of the Oxford High School. Recent restoration of the beach as part of a “living shoreline project” created 2 terraced sitting walls, a protective groin and a sandy beach with
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Oxford Points of Interest native grasses which will stop further erosion and provide valuable aquatic habitat. A similar project has been completed adjacent to the ferry dock. A kayak launch site has also been located near the ferry dock. 9. OXFORD MUSEUM - Morris & Market Sts. Devoted to the preservation of artifacts and memories of Oxford, MD. Admission is free; donations gratefully accepted. For more info. and hours tel: 410-226-0191 or visit oxfordmuseum.org. 10. OXFORD LIBRARY - 101 Market St. Founded in 1939 and on its present site since 1950. Hours are Mon.-Sat., 10-4. 11. BRATT MANSION (ACADEMY HOUSE) - 205 N. Morris St. Served as quarters for officers of the Maryland Military Academy. Built about 1848. (Private residence) 12. BARNABY HOUSE - 212 N. Morris St. Built in 1770 by sea captain Richard Barnaby, this charming house contains original pine woodwork, corner fireplaces and an unusually lovely handmade staircase. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Private residence) 13. THE GRAPEVINE HOUSE - 309 N. Morris St. The grapevine over the entrance arbor was brought from the Isle of Jersey in 1810 by Tidewater Residential Designs since 1989
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Oxford Points of Interest Captain William Willis, who commanded the brig “Sarah and Louisa.” (Private residence) 14. THE ROBERT MORRIS INN - N. Morris St. & The Strand. Robert Morris was the father of Robert Morris, Jr., the “financier of the Revolution.” Built about 1710, part of the original house with a beautiful staircase is contained in the beautifully restored Inn, now open 7 days a week. Robert Morris, Jr. was one of only 2 Founding Fathers to sign the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the United States Constitution. 410-226-5111 or visit robertmorrisinn.com. 15. THE OXFORD CUSTOM HOUSE - N. Morris St. & The Strand. Built in 1976 as Oxford’s official Bicentennial project. It is a replica of the first Federal Custom House built by Jeremiah Banning, who was the first Federal Collector of Customs appointed by George Washington. 16. TRED AVON YACHT CLUB - N. Morris St. & The Strand. Founded in 1931. The present building, completed in 1991, replaced the original structure. 17. OXFORD-BELLEVUE FERRY - N. Morris St. & The Strand. Started in 1683, this is believed to be the oldest privately operated ferry in
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Oxford Points of Interest the United States. Its first keeper was Richard Royston, whom the Talbot County Court “pitcht upon� to run a ferry at an unusual subsidy of 2,500 pounds of tobacco. Service has been continuous since 1836, with power supplied by sail, sculling, rowing, steam, and modern diesel engine. Many now take the ride between Oxford and Bellevue for the scenic beauty. 18. BYEBERRY - On the grounds of Cutts & Case Boatyard. It faces Town Creek and is one of the oldest houses in the area. The date of construction is unknown, but it was standing in 1695. Originally, it was in the main business section but was moved to the present location about 1930. (Private residence) 19. CUTTS & CASE - 306 Tilghman St. World-renowned boatyard for classic yacht design, wooden boat construction and restoration using composite structures. Some have described Cutts & Case Shipyard as an American Nautical Treasure because it produces to the highest standards quality work equal to and in many ways surpassing the beautiful artisanship of former times.
Saturday, December 14, 2019 @ 7 p.m. ~ OCC for more info. visit oxfordcc.org
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The Oxford-Bellevue Ferry, est. 1683
DECEMBER - FEBRUARY EVENTS
2-4 ~ 3-Day Songwriting Workshop with Paul Lewis @ OCC. $60. 3 to 5 p.m. Learn the process from melody to performance. Bring your instrument of choice. 2 ~ Workshop: A Token of My Love: The History of Holiday Gift Giving with Andrea Prevost @ OCC. Create your own bracelet and earrings. 1 to 3 p.m. $65. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904. 7-8 ~ Christmas on the Creek. Dock trees, multiple activities & sales; visit portofoxford.org for full schedule. 7 ~ Mistletoe Musical w/Maureen Curtain, the Langrells and friends @ OCC. 7 p.m. $20 8 ~ Oxford Firehouse Breakfast with Santa, 8 to 11 a.m., $10/pp, $5/child. 13 ~ Alex Barnett Christmas Special Fireside Music at Robert Morris Inn. 6:30 p.m. 14 ~ Claire Anthony Christmas Special Fireside Music at Robert Morris Inn. 6:30 p.m. 14 ~ Concert: Night Watch @ OCC. 7 p.m. $10. 14 ~ Piazza Wine Dinner w/chef Mark Salter @ Robert Morris Inn; 4 course dinner w/wine pairings. 6:30 p.m. $95. robertmorrisinn.com/special-dinners. 20 ~ Movie Classics Series: The Best Years of Our Lives @ OCC. 7 p.m. Free. 22 ~ A Red Christmas w/Chuck and Robert Redd on vibes and piano at the Church of the Holy Trinity. 3 p.m. Free with offering. For more info. tel: 410-226-5134. Jan. 12 ~ Oxford Firehouse Breakfast, 8 to 11 a.m., $10/pp, $5/child. Jan. 16 ~ Cooking with Larry @ OCC - Tuscan Italy. 10 a.m. to noon. $35. 410-226-5904. Jan. 17 ~ Movie Classics Series: North By Northwest @ OCC. 7 p.m. Free. Jan. 17-18 ~ Rabbie Burns Nichts at Robert Morris Inn. Authentic Scottish food, Burns poetry and bagpipes. 6:30 p.m. $98/pp. robertmorrisinn.com/special-dinners. Feb. 1 ~ Kenny Knopp Fireside Music at Robert Morris Inn. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 7 ~ Movie Classics Series: Rebecca @ OCC. 7 p.m. Free. Feb. 8 ~ The Evolution of Gospel Music @ OCC w/live music. 6 p.m. $10. Feb. 8 ~ Cooking Demo w/Mark Salter @ Robert Morris Inn - Bay Rockfish. Demo followed by lunch. 10 a.m. $75. RSVP 410-226-5111 robertmorrisinn.com/cook-school. Feb. 9 ~ Oxford Firehouse Breakfast, 8 to 11 a.m., $10/pp, $5/child. Feb. 14 ~ Alex Barnett Valentine Special Fireside Music at Robert Morris Inn. 6:30 p.m. Feb. 22 ~ Cooking Demo w/Mark Salter @ Robert Morris Inn - Winter Pasta. Demo followed by lunch. 10 a.m. $75. RSVP 410-226-5111 robertmorrisinn.com/cook-school. Feb. 29 ~ Oxford VFD Auxiliary Rummage Sale. 9 a.m. to noon. Drop-off Feb. 28. Ongoing @ OCC - Check oxfordcc.org for Holiday closings and schedule changes Community CafĂŠ - Mon., Wed. & Fri. - 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Core & More Fitness RX w/Mark Cuviello: Mon. & Wed. 10:30 a.m. $12/class Beginner Tai Chi with Nathan Spivey: Tues. & Thurs. 9 a.m. $75/mo. or $10/class. Steady and Strong Exercise Class: Tues. & Thurs. 10:15 a.m. $60/10 classes or $8/class.
Oxford Business Association ~ portofoxford.com Visit us online for a full calendar of events 137
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Tilghman’s Island “Great Choptank Island” was granted to Seth Foster in 1659. Thereafter it was known as Foster’s Island, and remained so through a succession of owners until Matthew Tilghman of Claiborne inherited it in 1741. He and his heirs owned the island for over a century and it has been Tilghman’s Island ever since, though the northern village and the island’s postal designation are simply “Tilghman.” For its first 175 years, the island was a family farm, supplying grains, vegetables, fruit, cattle, pigs and timber. Although the owners rarely were in residence, many slaves were: an 1817 inventory listed 104. The last Tilghman owner, General Tench Tilghman (not Washington’s aide-de-camp), removed the slaves in the 1830s and began selling off lots. In 1849, he sold his remaining interests to James Seth, who continued the development. The island’s central location in the middle Bay is ideally suited for watermen harvesting the Bay in all seasons. The years before the Civil War saw the influx of the first families we know today. A second wave arrived after the War, attracted by the advent of oyster dredging in the 1870s. Hundreds of dredgers and tongers operated out of Tilghman’s Island, their catches sent to the cities by schooners. Boat building, too, was an important industry. The boom continued into the 1890s, spurred by the arrival of steamboat service, which opened vast new markets for Bay seafood. Islanders quickly capitalized on the opportunity as several seafood buyers set up shucking and canning operations on pilings at the edge of the shoal of Dogwood Cove. The discarded oyster shells eventually became an island with seafood packing houses, hundreds of workers, a store, and even a post office. The steamboats also brought visitors who came to hunt, fish, relax and escape the summer heat of the cities. Some families stayed all summer in one of the guest houses that sprang up in the villages of Tilghman, Avalon, Fairbank and Bar Neck. Although known for their independence, Tilghman’s Islanders enjoy showing visitors how to pick a crab, shuck an oyster or find a good fishing spot. In the twentieth century, Islanders pursued these vocations in farming, on the water, and in the thriving seafood processing industry. The “Tilghman Brand” was known throughout the eastern United States, but as the Bay’s bounty diminished, so did the number of water-related jobs. Still, three of the few remaining Bay skipjacks (sailing dredgeboats) can be seen here, as well as two working harbors with scores of power workboats. 139
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Memories of Christmas Past by Gary D. Crawford
A h, the year-end holidays are upon us once again. Christmas celebrations are many and varied and ~ for me, at least ~ have changed much over the years. After all, it’s the kids who have the real fun. And boy, do I remember one of those super-fun Christmases!… but more about that one later. For adults, the Christmas season is one of home decorating, gif tbuying, wrapping of presents and planning gatherings of friends and family. Parents and grandparents dither about what to purchase and
how much to spend. What would Judy like? Or Billy? What don’t they already have? What are kids into these days, anyway? We don’t want to be silly or overly extravagant, but heck ~ these are our kids, right? When our two kids were young (but post-Santa), we turned the gift-buy ing chores into a family outing. We drove together to a big mall and then div ided up ~ my daughter and I went one way, my wife and son went the other. We arranged to meet at the same central place in one hour, af ter
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Christmas Past each team had bought gifts for the other. Then we switched kids and did it again. It was fun for all, as we got to consult with one another about the right gifts for the others. And we got to enjoy all the beautiful holiday decorations and even see Santa. Best of all, in about two hours, we were finished with it. In the old days before online shopping and interstate travel, the yuletide was a localized affair built around the family, the church and the neighbors. Down in these parts, in the Bay Hundred and probably elsewhere, the holiday festivities lasted a week and more. Preparations began weeks in advance. The menfolk slaughtered hogs, then smoked and salted them. They also gathered turkeys and various waterfowl and readied them for cooking, as well as well as winter fish and, of course, oysters. Fish sometimes were cooked on planks. The joke was that after the fish were finished and removed, you ate the plank. (This looks like planked shad, so
it’s probably in the spring, but you get the idea.) Me a nwh i le, t he women went on a baking binge, making beaten biscuits, cookies and various fruitcakes and pastries. One favorite was the Minnehaha cake. Minnehaha was the Native American heroine in Longfellow’s famous poem Song of Hiawatha, though why the cake was named for her is unclear. A recipe for one of t hese c a kes appea red in t he Centennial World’s Fair cookbook in 1876. A bit closer to home, Alice Butler Bradshaw has mentioned Minnehaha cakes in her charming book, A Promise of Love. Here is how she prepared them in the 1930s here in Fairbank village: Minnehaha Cake Frosting Recipe: 1 cup butter 2 cups sugar Cake: 2 cups sugar 1 cup water 4 eggs, separated 1/2 cup raisins 3 cups all-purpose f lour
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Wishing you and yours a Happy and Prosperous New Year! All of us at, Christine M. Dayton Architect 143
Christmas Past 1/2 cup walnuts, broken 1 T. baking powder 1/2 cup dates (sugared morsels) 1 cup milk 1/2 cup coconut 1-1/2 t. almond extract 1/2 cup candied cherries A pinch of salt 1/2 t. vanilla extract Miss A lice explained that one should first cream the butter, then slowly add the sugar and egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine the f lour, baking powder and salt, then add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk. Mix well after each ad-
dition, then stir in the f lavoring and coconut. Next, beat egg whites (at room temperature) until stiff peaks form, then fold into the batter. Spoon the batter into 3 greased and f loured 8-inch cake pans, bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until cake tests done. Let them cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then remove layers from their pans and let them cool. For the frosting, cook the sugar and water until it forms a soft ball in cold water. Add vanilla and pour over the mixed fruit and spread the frosting between the layers and on top of the cake. Here’s a modern Minnehaha cake with the filling between the layers and a white frosting on the outside.
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Not a local gal, Miss Alice had to turn to her neighbors here to help her learn the role of a waterman’s wife. She discovered that everyone prepared fruitcakes a month before Christmas. These are baked in lard cans, with lots of fruits and nuts ~ dried apricots and figs, candied cherries, almonds and Brazil nuts. They are then set aside for several weeks and drizzled repeatedly with wh iske y or r u m. (A l ic e had no liquor, so she substituted apple juice.) Then, a week before Christmas, she made additional cakes: black walnut, chocolate, orange and fresh coconut. The various baked goods often were stored in tins on the stairways of homes. In those days, the only heated room was the kitchen (and the parlor, when needed), so the stairway provided just enough warmth to prevent the baked goods from freezing. Root beer was a popular beverage at Christmastime. One bottle of root beer essence, five pounds 145
Christmas Past of sugar, two yeast cakes and water were mixed in a lard can; then bot t les were f illed and capped. T he s e w e r e pl ac e d b e h i nd t he stove to pick up some warmth as the root beer “ripened.” Miss Alice recalled one night when she and husband Bob were awakened to the sound of gunfire in the house. Racing downstairs, Bob entered the kitchen ready to confront the intr uder. But it was just A lice’s bottles of new root beer exploding, one by one. Apparently she had gotten the recipe a bit wrong, and the pressure had burst off the caps. Other y uletide foods included hominy, mincemeat, hulled and cracked walnuts, salted or pickled fish (done in the fall) and sweet potato pies cooked in the lids of lard cans.
The Christmas tree was always a n i mp o r t a nt e l e m e nt . It w a s never put up and trimmed until the children were asleep in bed on Christmas Eve. There also were some community trees. For example, in early December of 1913, a “goodly number” of ladies met in the public schoolhouse in Wittman on a Monday afternoon to arrange for a “Community Christmas tree.” Mrs. White, Miss Ethel Wood a nd Miss Emma Thoma s were added to the committee. Apparently they were successful in their efforts, for the Star Democrat carried this notice on December 27. “Wit t man: The Communit y Christmas Tree at McDaniel on Monday afternoon was a success in every particular. The Hall was filled to overf lowing and the true Christmas spirit was ref lected in the smiling faces of the children and in the hear t y e xchange of cheery Christmas greetings among the elders. Rev. John White, of Sherwood, in a few well-chosen remarks put this large audience in a happy frame of mind to enjoy the excellent program prepared by the children of Wittman, McDaniel, and Claiborne schools. Each number was heartily applauded, as it deserved. “At the close of the program Rev. J. F. Kirk, of St. Michaels, made a very interesting address, after which came the dist r ibut ion of gifts. There were fully two hundred
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children remembered and each child was given an appropriate gift in addition to a stocking filled with candy, nuts, dates, an apple, an orange, and a horn. “Ever ybody entered into the spirit of the occasion, and as the teams drove away with their loads of children the tooting of horns mingled with the cry of “Merry Chr i st mas to you.” The men at Wittman owning teams cheerfully loaned them, and five large wagons, beside numerous carriages, left Wittman at 1:30 p.m. f illed with happy mothers and children. It is generally conceded that nothing that has occurred heretofore has been so enjoyable as the Community Tree. We feel that
a vote of thanks is due Mrs. J. G. Wrightson, the originator of the plan, and her corps of assistants. This, we feel sure, is but the beginning of a better and brighter feeling of good will towards neighbors and friends.” We hope so, too. Christmas Day was for the kids. Ever yone enjoyed watching t he children open and then play with their gifts ~ dolls, toy trucks and the like, as well as articles of clothing. Money was tight, and the gifts were modest; many came by mail f rom t ho se ma r velou s S e a r s & Roebuck and Montgomery Ward’s catalogs. Kids often left them on the table, open to a particularly favorable page ~ hint, hint. Occa-
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Christmas Past sionally, when a child got a really splendid gift, like their first bicycle, it would leave an indelible mark on their memory, a moment of childhood joy they would recall decades later. And boy, I sure do remember my really special one, when I got the…but more about that later. S o wh i le Ch r ist ma s Day wa s devoted to the kids, the days and nights following Christmas were for the adults. Even the men took the week of f as a holiday. Ty pically it involved a series of visits to friends and neighbors, to enjoy all those fruitcakes, Minnehaha cakes and other goodies. As you might expect, down here on Tilghman’s Island, this tradition was played out with a curious twist. It was called “masquerading,” and it began sometime in the 1870s and continued for half a century. Nobody now can remember how this practice started or why. Men (mostly) dressed up in silly costumes, often borrowing women’s clot hing, painted their faces to hide their identities and then came a-calling. They simply showed up, knocked on the door, and instead of “Trick or Treat” they said “Merry Christmas” and barged in. The family tried to figure out who they were while feeding them w ith cakes, cookies, root beer and sometimes other drinks. The Ea ston G a zet te ra n t h is
story. “Quite a surprise was given our ne w ne igh b or s whe n the y answered the call at their doors Tuesday night of last week. Thirteen strange and repulsive-looking personages walked in uninvited. It seems as though the holidays had been just a little dull and these c reat ures had ar ranged themselves in all sorts of costumes in order to appear ridiculous. Some of the fair sex had kindly handed over their feminine garments to the gentlemen, who very willingly returned the compliment….We were kindly treated and rewarded with many good things to eat and drink which old Santa had left during the holidays.”
This is the only photo I have located of some Tilghman masqueraders. OK, several times now I have me nt ione d a t r u l y me mor a ble Ch r ist ma s f rom my ch i ld hood. Here’s what happened. First, you have to k now a bit about my dad. Kenneth Crawford was a second-generation Scot, the sixth of nine children. He finished high school only a couple of years
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Christmas Past before I did, through a GED program. Dad dropped out of school in the 11th grade and then served six years in the Navy, where he learned of f ice procedures, book keeping and Gregg shorthand ~ a useful skill in the days before recording devices became commonplace. He was a quick study and had a good sense of humor. Upon marrying my mother, Dad finally was able to land a job as a clerk stenographer while Mom cont inued work ing for t he Bel l telephone company ~ until I came along. When Mom stopped working to care for me, finances were very tight. To help with house payments, they took in roomers, young working women. During WWII gas rationing, Dad set up a carpool to drive fellow employees to work. The point here is that while the three of us were a happy little family, there wasn’t much discretionary spending , even for Christmas gif ts. Accordingly, my letters to Santa were fairly modest ~ until I was eight years old. That was the Christmas when I felt I needed a model train set. Here’s why. I had always admired trains, of course. Every boy did. You young folks have no idea what it felt like to stand on a train platform as a steam engine came blustering in, shaking the ground and breathing like an immense friendly dragon.
But at the age of five, I had gotten seriously hooked on trains. Because that was the year when my parents had to get rid of me for a few weeks. Allow me to explain. Mother really wanted a second child, but she had had three miscarriages and the doctors said this fifth pregnancy would be their last chance. So, as she was near ing term, they resolved to do everything possible to ensure a restful final month, a successful childbirth and a quiet recovery period. That meant finding somewhere to stash t heir char ming but act ive f ive year-old boy. Mom’s pa rent s lived up nea r Cleveland, some 200 miles away. They said they would be happy to look after me for six weeks, and I was delighted with the prospect of being on my own (sort of) for a few weeks. Now, the simplest way to get me up there was by train, a trip of about five hours with multiple stops along the way. So one day they put me on the train in Dayton, with a lunch basket and a note pinned to my jacket indicating where I was to get off. So we went aboard the train, found me a
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Christmas Past seat and said goodbye. The conductor assured them he would look after me. I’m sure they were worried, but I wasn’t. I was deliriously happy and stayed glued to the window watching the countryside go by. The best part was when we came huffing and puffing into each station. The conductor and the steward were very nice and made sure I was ready to disembark as we rolled into the Elyria station. As I hopped down the steps, there were Grandpa and Grandma with big smiles! Just to wrap this up, after spending six wonderful weeks with them, we drove down to Dayton together to meet my little brother for the first time.
Now perhaps you can understand why my heart was set on getting a model train set. For some time, I had been drooling over the Lionel trains that were for sale in the department stores, hardware stores and in the Sears & Roebuck and Montgomer y Ward catalogs. My heart was set on an HO gauge train,
with locomotive, tender, caboose and a few freight cars. Not the biggest and fanciest, you understand, just a modest starter set, with a 2-6-4 locomotive. (That means 2 front guide wheels, 6 powered drive wheels and 4 rear wheels.) I composed a nice, respectful letter to Santa about it all, which Mom helped me to write, and then we got it mailed off to the North Pole. She cautioned me not to get my hopes up, though, reminding me that train sets are expensive and Santa has to make sure that all children get something nice. I realized it was sort of a long shot, but remained hopeful. When Christmas morning arrived, I bounded out of bed and ran down the stairs. Sure enough, Santa had visited us! There was a big beautiful tree with many presents underneath ~ but I quickly saw there was no package big enough to contain a model train set. Maybe it came in separate packages? So I put on a brave face and began opening presents, one by one. We always took turns: first one for Mom, then one for me, then one for Dad, and so on. That was so we all could appreciate the various gifts that Santa had provided for our family. Yeah, yeah ~ great, nice socks. But where the heck was the train? Why hadn’t Santa taken my letter seriously? Hey, maybe he never even got it… Dad sat on the floor passing the gifts around, one by one. When all
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were given out, he looked at me. He could tell I was downcast. “Well, son, maybe Sa nt a had ju st too many requests to handle this year.” “Yeah,” I mumbled, trying to put on a brave face. Then Dad said, “Wait, what’s this?” and picked up a little envelope. “Here, Gary, it’s addressed to you.” Probably f rom Grandma, I thought, perhaps with a dollar or two. I tore it open and found a note ~ signed by Santa himself!” So he had gotten my letter! All the note said was, “Gary, look in the envelope on the mantle. ~ Santa” Wow. I jumped up and went to the mantle. Sure enough, there was another envelope peeking out from behind the clock. I hopped up on
a chair and grabbed it. Quickly, I read it aloud: “Look behind the stove.” And off I ran to the kitchen. The note there said, “Look behind your mother’s dresser.” It was all a bit of a blur as I ran from place to place, following Santa’s trail of notes. I’m sure Mom and Dad were follow ing me around, hav ing as much fun as I was. There must have been a dozen notes before I found one that said, “Check in the attic.” “Dad!” I called out. “I need help. It says the next note is in the attic. Please help me pull down the folding stairway.” Dad was quick to comply, unfolding the stairs for me. Eagerly, I scrambled up, and as I got up to the level of the attic f loor ~ there she was!!
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Christmas Past A Lionel electric train, already all set up on an oval track, with a tender, three cars and a caboose, all pulled by a 2-6-4 locomotive. It was absolutely perfect. That Santa! Teasing a little kid like that. I’ll bet most of you have a special Christmas memory, too. Perhaps you might care to share that one
when the family gathers this year? And of course, we should all strive, at least once in our lives, to generate such an experience for some child or other. Merry Christmas! Gary Crawford and his wife, Susan, own and operate Crawfords Nautical Books, a unique bookstore on Tilghman’s Island.
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Christmas in St. Michaels Tour of Homes
decorated for the holidays
During a weekend packed with parties, parades and special events, the Christmas in St. Michaels Tour of Homes is one of the highlights, drawing visitors from far and wide for an up-close look at the past and the present. One of the longest-running home tours in Mar yland, t he Tour of Homes features both historic homes in the village and some very special countryside homes. The houses in town are within walking distance of each other, giving visitors a great opportunity to stroll through town and soak up the historic atmosphere. Most were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and were residences of watermen and seafarers at some point. Many have since been restored, expanded and modernized. The countryside homes are located just outside of town, often situated in expansive waterfront settings. They should not be missed, as they employ exquisite architectural details and are creatively set amid the Eastern Shore landscape. Visitors reach the country homes via professional licensed shuttle bus service, which is included in the ticket price. The buses leave from
200 Cherry Street Drawing by Jane Anderson Mill Street, across from the Town Offices, with the last bus departing at 4 p.m. on Saturday and 3 p.m. on Sunday. 200 Cherry Street In 1799, Samuel Harrison built the original Federal period three-story brick structure, which included a single-story wing. Then, as today, this wing housed the kitchen. Harrison operated a tavern, and the fi rst post office is said to have been located in the small rear wing. Sarah Louisa Bruff doubled the size of the house in 1872 in the Victorian era. In 1877, after the Civil War, Frederick Douglass visited Bruff ’s father ,who was Douglass’s former master, to reconcile their diff erences. Mr. Douglass then addressed reporters
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Tour of Homes from the second-f loor porch. Dr. Dodson, a surgeon in the Union Army, later bought the house and maintained his practice in what is now the dining room. He made house calls in his horse and buggy that were kept in the charming carriage house. The current owner acquired the property in 1993 and created a bed and breakfast. Original features include flooring, mantels, wavy glass in the windows and an impressive two-story porch with sawn balusters. A two-story addition was added in 1998 to allow for an expansive chef’s kitchen, a sitting area and fireplace and an upstairs master suite. 113 Grace Street The John D. Long house, also known as the Denny-Dean house, is a two-story, three-bay side hall frame dwelling dating from the mid-19th century located on what was then the edge of St. Michaels, now Grace
Street. Period finish features and mature cut nails point to a construction date around 1852, when records show that John D. Long leased two adjacent lots from Reverend Samuel Grace, for whom Grace Street is named, for $12 a year. Long built the house and then sold it to the Denny-Dean family after just a few years. The house remained in their possession until 1943. The modest three bedroom, twoand-a-ha lf-bat h cedar-shingled house retains its original six-oversix sash windows, beaded window frames and some interior woodwork. Most signif ic ant histor ic details inside the house are the mid19th-century staircase newel posts with boldly chamfered corners and a circular profile handrail.
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THE TIDEWATER INN will be offering FREE carriage rides this holiday season! Don’t miss the opportunity to see downtown Easton in old-style fashion during the most wonderful time of the year! Carriage rides will depart from the front of the Tidewater Inn. Friday, December 6th | 4:00-8:00pm Saturday, December 7th | 2:00-6:00pm Saturday, December 14th | 3:00-7:00pm Sunday, December 15th | 3:00-7:00pm* Saturday, December 21st | 3:00-7:00pm Saturday, December 28th | 3:00-7:00pm Tuesday, December 31st | 4:00-8:00pm Last hour is reserved for Tidewater Inn guests *1:00pm-5:00pm is reserved for Tidewater Inn guests on 12/15/19
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Tour of Homes at the Baltimore investment firm Alex Brown. The home under went a major renovation in 2005. The property features a first-f loor master suite with vaulted ceilings, a renovated kitchen w ith cathedral ceilings, custom cabinetr y and hardwood f loors throughout.
303 E. Chew Ave. Drawing by Kathy Kopec 303 E. Chew Ave. When entering the house, be sure to check out the oil painting in the foyer that depicts the artist and homeowner racing comets out of Surf City Yacht Club, New Jersey. (The homeowner is in the lead!) The owner’s love of carved water birds and decoys is apparent throughout the house. The yearround sunroom is a place for the family to relax and enjoy the outdoors by bringing it indoors. George Brooks House The George Brooks House sits on more than eight acres of land on the
George Brooks House Drawing by Diana Dardis northwest end of St. Michaels. The house dates back to the Civil War period and has been designated a historic site by the Talbot County Historic Preservation Commission. It was reported that freed slaves built the center section of the house for Andrew C. Barkman. The house was reportedly the area’s largest African Americanowned residence, and today represents one of the few restored African American homes dating back more than100 years. In 2002, the property received the “Heritage Award” by the Historic Society of Talbot County for the best historic restoration of the year. It received the State’s Preservation Project Award in 2003. Wades Point Wades Point was a 1658 land grant to Zachary Wade, whose name has remained though he never lived on the land. The oldest building on the property is the 1812 Georgian
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Wades Point Drawing by Abby Ober brick house built by Thomas Kemp and patterned after the Paca house in Annapolis. Thomas Kemp was the designer/builder of the Pride of Baltimore, originally named La Chasseur, the fastest ship famous for its harassment of British ships in the War of 1812. Wades Point is also the site where the British landed w ith 60 barges, mak ing a second attempt to capture St. Michaels’ v igorous shipbuilding industry. Wades Point made the transition to a summer resort in 1890, when Thomas Kemp’s great-grandson and wife added a 28-bed summer wing and filled it with family and f r iends f rom the wester n shore who traveled over on the Claiborne ferry. The story goes that one particular guest, as the ferry neared the inn, dove into the bay and swam straight over to Wades Point.
Deepwater Point Sandwiched between two charmi ng shor e - t heme d home s , t h i s contemporar y sits on t wo acres overlooking the Miles River and Eastern Bay. Originally built in 1985 as part of the Martingham community, it was purchased and rebuilt in 2002. The home features a two-story great room with a beautiful walkaround stone fireplace. With approximately 5,300 square feet of liv ing space, the home has four bedrooms and a built-in porch. Its non-traditional interior brings the open feel of the Pacific Northwest home to t he Easter n Shore ~ a combination that made the current owners fall in love and feel right at home. With all its character and care, this home has provided priceless memories of family time together, including hot summer nights with firef lies and fireworks and frosty frigid mornings with bare trees and
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Deepwater Point Drawing by Judy Weaver
f locks of geese. Every other year, the house is magically decorated by a team of professionals. The children in the family and even the adults have come to anticipate the excitement and enchantment of the holidays as artistically interpreted by the decorator. From a forest of Christmas trees outside to lifesized nutcrackers painted on the windows, the team turns the house into a winter wonderland. T icket s for t he Ch r ist ma s i n St. Michaels Tour of Homes may b e pu rcha se d on l i ne at c hr i stmasinstmichaels.org for $25 or in person at The Christmas Shop, Che sap e a ke Tr ad i ng C ompa ny, Chesapea ke Bay Out f it ters a nd Charisma in St. Michaels up until noon on Dec. 13. After that, tickets can be purchased for $30 at the Granite Lodge on St. Mary’s Square, St. Michaels. All proceeds from the Christmas i n St. Michaels Tou r of Home s and other events fund local charities. Over the past three decades, Christmas in St. Michaels has donated more than $1 million to local non-profit organizations providing much-needed services to area residents. For more information about this and other events, please visit christmasinstmichaels.org.
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Changes:
All-American Part III of a novel in many parts
by Roger Vaughan Previously: The year is 1998. Andy Thomas made an ill-advised tactical call during a race in 50foot sailboats that nearly caused a dangerous collision. His father, Mitchell (at the helm), was livid. Later, at the awards dinner, a drunken Andy delivered a public declaration that made it virtually impossible for Mitchell Thomas, a well-known amateur sailor, not to mount a Volvo Round the World Race challenge. Mitchell is CEO of Moss Optical, a company inherited by his wife, Deedee Moss. Thomas was thoroughly outraged by his son’s gaffe. * * * * The board room at Moss Optical is round with a high, deeply domed ceiling. It is a small planetarium. The black walnut table that looks and feels like satin is 15 feet across and shaped like a donut. There are 20 exotic-looking leather chairs around the table, 30 more around the perimeter of the room, all on rollers. Each chair reclines nearly to a full horizontal position. Within the center space is a MossStar
Heavens TR29 projector with the basic shape of a dumbbell. Round globes at each end that glitter with lenses are connected by an arm of structural steel that is attached to a base at its balance point. When not in use, the projector is hydraulically retracted into a work space beneath the floor. The projector is in a constant state of development. Moss engineers and scientists use it as a prototype for studying new ways to broadcast patterns of the universe that are accurate to the millisecond upon the midnight-blue ceiling. The MossStar Heavens TR29 is the best and most advanced instrument of its kind in the world. The star shows at Moss Optical are legendary. The acoustics in the planetarium are perfect. The most quietly uttered aside can be heard anywhere in the room as if one’s ear were next to the speaker’s mouth. This unique acoustical quality of the room has the effect of subduing all who enter. The audio track that accompanies the show is a tape loop made on one of the early space shuttle voyages. It’s the real, unaltered
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All-American
use them without restraint for business. People who worked with him sound of outer space played back learned to expect calls at all hours on the best stereo system available. of the night. But for all his creative With stars and planets projected energy, he was prudish and naron the ceiling, with the narrator row minded in his personal life, a speaking in conversational tones, stickler for appearances, a man for and the audio fingerprint of the uni- whom formality was an essential verse providing the deepest, most crutch. His children were required riveting silence one can imagine, to eat in the kitchen until they were the effect is emotionally transport- old enough to dress properly and ing. Anyone who has ever looked at display polished manners at his the heavens with more than passing table. An exuberant Dr. Jekyll in his interest would covet an invitation to laboratory by night, Randolph Moss was a stern, formidable husband a Moss star show. The planetarium was built by and father at home. Moss was well into his 80s when Deedee Moss’s father. Randolph Moss was the founder, chief as- he figured out how to cast and polish the biggest lens tronomer, chief enThe Solution Came that had ever been gineer, and far and made for a telescope, away the most avantFrom Cosmic creating a breakguard thinker in his Messengers through that catacompany. Randolph Moss was a curious man, a touch pulted his company to the forefront daffy by all accounts, a night person of the optics industry. His accomwhose 14-hour work days began in plishment was no more astounding the late afternoon. A tall, angular than his insistence that the solution man who never raised his voice, had been brought to him by a group Moss never slept more than four of elves as he worked alone in his hours a day, and that in 20-minute lab one night. At least that’s what he cat naps. For a man who constantly named the opportune, cosmic meschallenged the technological bar- sengers who visited him. Elves. And riers of his scientific field, he lived it wasn’t a joke, although he did acas a throwback to the previous cept gentle teasing about it by a few century. He hated automobiles. He close family members, and by ever rode his bicycle the three miles to fewer trusted friends and co-workhis office year round in all but the ers with whom he had shared this worst weather. On those days, he secret. He swore to the truth of it walked. He hated telephones, too, until the day he died at age 96. The board meetings of Moss Opbut his pragmatism forced him to 166
tical have always concluded with a star show. It was a good way to bring members up to date on any new advances in Moss’s most impressive (and most expensive) product, and frankly, it was one of the perks board members looked forward to the most, after stock options. And so, as the business of the board concluded on this particular day, the distinguished men and women around the table relaxed visibly as one, chatting quietly as they returned their paperwork to leather cases, and caressed the “recline” buttons on their chairs with anticipation. But this day when the slide in the floor in the center of the donut table opened, and the hushed whir of machinery was heard, it was not the MossStar Heavens TR29 that appeared. It was a round, translucent ball eight feet in diameter that ascended on the thinnest possible pedestal. This was the MossScreen 2000, a digital system capable of projecting images, still or video, simultaneously on all four quadrants of the ball without the slightest
distortion. So new was this fibreoptical prototype that the board members were only vaguely familiar with the concept that had been presented to them by Moss scientists several years before. While they were collectively marveling over this latest bit of futuristic fantasy, Sam Cotton cleared his throat and began to speak. In the chair beside Sam Cotton, Deedee Moss came to life. As the founder’s daughter and majority stockholder, Deedee was a member of the Moss board in perpetuity. To her credit, she rarely missed a meeting. But while she was there in body, her spirit often flagged under the drone of numbers and tiresome reports. She had no desire to participate in the management of Moss. Her husband, Mitchell, took care of that. She simply felt a family responsibility to carry the flag, to keep the Moss name alive. That would please her father, she knew. After her, it would have to be Andy. She hoped he would be willing to carry the flag. He wasn’t very interested in the company, she knew
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a once-rugged man who had in fact played rugby sevens at Harvard. that. She hoped it would grow on At 74, he had shot his age on the him. He did love astronomy. He golf course, a life-long dream. But got that from his grandfather. She lately Sam had been struggling with never failed to think about Andy re- a succession of illnesses that had placing her as she sat in her father’s softened the edge of his physique. beloved planetarium room, usu- Fatigue haunted his features. He’d ally just before she dozed off, which finally quit his thrice-weekly tennis was predictably within the first ten foursome. But other than a couple minutes of a meeting. Deedee dozed brief hospitalizations, Sam hadn’t the way she did everything – with missed a day at the office. Sam figdignity. New members had a hard ured it was okay to leave the game, time discerning that she was nap- but while you remained, you’d betping. Her head was inclined gently ter keep playing your hardest. He back against the rest, eyes closed was also a member of the Moss perhaps in contemplation, and her board, there mainly to look out for hands were relaxed on the arms Deedee’s interests. This day, Sam had arranged with of the marvelously Deedee the chairman to have comfortable, soft a few minutes after leather chair. Only Dozed Off the business meeting her stillness and With Dignity for a presentation. measured breathing The lights dimmed in the room as betrayed her withdrawal from the Sam Cotton began to speak. proceedings. “Mrs. Thomas has asked me to As the meeting concluded and the MossScreen 2000 made its ap- present a project she would very pearance, Deedee awoke, a transi- much like the company to undertion she always managed without take.” Board members came to full the slightest twitch or shudder. She attention, because this was a first. simply opened her eyes. But as Sam Not even the most senior among Cotton began speaking, she was them could recall input, or even more than awake. She was involved. participation of any sort, from For the Deedee Moss-watchers Deedee Moss Thomas. An image appeared on the Mossamong the board members, and there were several, the sudden in- Screen 2000. It was a low-altitude aerial photograph of a large, terest on her part was a red flag. Sam Cotton, the Moss family at- streamlined sailboat in full cry. It torney for decades, was in his late was shot from the side, showing 70s. He was less than six feet tall, the bow of the boat overhanging a 168
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Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Uruguay, the U.S., France, England gigantic wave by at least 20 feet as and Sweden to allow for re-provithe boat took off, trying to fly as it sioning, repairs, and crew rest and was struck by a fierce gust of wind. recreation, although I’m told there Sam paused, allowing the audience is precious little of the latter. A typito savor the extraordinary image. cal stopover is two weeks, and as After a few seconds, the boat came you can see, that time is used to exto life, completing its drop off the cellent advantage by sponsors of the wave and practically disappearing various yachts. Social events, client in the deluge of green and white activities like day sails on the boats, water scooped up by the bow. Sam and a variety of other businesswaited for the chorus of exclama- related gatherings are centered tions to recede. The video now was aroundthis rather spectacular and showing a model of the extraordi- romantic adventure. “There’s much more, but I sugnary boat from various angles. “This is a Whitbread 60, now gest you read the information Sally called a Volvo Ocean Race 60, has distributed, no need taking up your time here. The a class that has basic proposal is for evolved from 25 Fatigue Haunted us to sponsor one of years of racing boats His Features these boats, makaround the world. ing it the Moss flagIt’s actually 65 feet overall. The mast tip is 84 feet above ship, and launching it on its way the deck. The boat weighs less than around the world. Then it’s up to most 40-footers, with more than us to make the most of it through a half that weight in the keel. It may well-planned campaign of advertislook like a day boat, but a crew of 12 ing and promotion. To answer the people race these things around the most obvious questions, sponsorworld ~ 30,000 miles, starting and ship of a Volvo entry costs around finishing in Southampton, England, $15 million and change. That covleaving the continents to port. The ers design and construction of two boats, which I am told is essential race takes nine months.” As Sam spoke, the board secre- to be competitive; crew salaries ~ tary circled the table, passing out the sailors are pros, and they’ll be a packet of information. The video working almost two straight years segued to a montage of multi-na- on this project ~ spare parts, sails, a shore crew that travels to each port, tional shore activity. “There are between six and eight food, clothing, the works. “Does it pay off? There’s no easy stopovers each race in places like 170
answer to that. We’d be allowed to use the boat as a floating billboard for Moss, with our logo plastered on sails, hull, deck and uniforms. In addition to worldwide print coverage, the TV coverage is excellent, including ESPN here at home. In your packets you will find some compelling studies various sponsors have released to show the miracles wrought by international publicity for their brand image. My personal feeling is that it depends on the company. For us, it is an opportunity not only for brand exposure through the world, but it would give our binocular and telescope lines a huge boost. I have been assured that if Moss were to sponsor a boat, our company would be named the official provider of optics for the f leet. “One more thing. There has never been an American boat in this race. A couple hundred Americans have participated in the race, but never on a U.S. boat. We have an opportunity to sponsor the first American entry ever in the Volvo Ocean Race Around the World. That in itself would make Moss the focus of considerable attention.” The room was silent after Sam finished. Many of the board members flipped through the information packet as the lights came up and the MossScreen2000 sank quietly out of sight. Deedee said nothing. She didn’t need to. She was glowing.
One board member managed to find his voice. “So, will you skipper the boat?” From across the table, the question was directed at Mitchell Thomas, who was seated on the other side of his wife. Mitchell smiled, shook his head. “I wish I could. But I don’t see how I could take the time off this project would require. And, as Sam said, this is a game for professionals. But I assure you I will find the best possible man for the job… if the board approves, of course.” Mitchell’s stamp of approval was unmistakable. There were no more questions. The lights dimmed, putting the planetarium in total darkness as the MossStar Heavens TR29 rose from beneath the floor. Deedee pressed the “recline” button on her chair. This was one of the favorite moments in her life, the main reason she never missed a meeting. She never tilted back in her chair without feeling eight years old, her age when the planetarium first opened, when she was nearly overcome by the experience. Every show was like the first time for her. Every time, she felt herself being swallowed up by the overwhelming silence of deep space, tears welled in her eyes and the top of her head prickled. And now the Volvo. Oh, how she hoped the board would approve. Roger Vaughan lives, works and sails in Oxford, Maryland.
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Kent County and Chestertown at a Glance Kent County is a treasury of early American history. Its principal towns and back roads abound with beautiful old homes and historic landmarks. The area was first explored by Captain John Smith in 1608. Kent County was founded in 1642 and named for the shire in England that was the home of many of Kent’s earliest colonists. When the first legislature assembled in 1649, Kent County was one of two counties in the colony, thus making it the oldest on the Eastern Shore. It extended from Kent Island to the present boundary. The first settlement, New Yarmouth, thrived for a time and, until the founding of Chestertown, was the area’s economic, social and religious center. Chestertown, the county seat, was founded in 1706 and served as a port of entry during colonial times. A town rich in history, its attractions include a blend of past and present. Its brick sidewalks and attractive antiques stores, restaurants and inns beckon all to wander through the historic district and enjoy homes and places with architecture ranging from the Georgian mansions of wealthy colonial merchants to the elaborate style of the Victorian era. Second largest district of restored 18th-century homes in Maryland, Chestertown is also home to Washington College, the nation’s tenth oldest liberal arts college, founded in 1782. Washington College was also the only college that was given permission by George Washington for the use of his name, as well as given a personal donation of money. The beauty of the Eastern Shore and its waterways, the opportunity for boating and recreation, the tranquility of a rural setting and the ambiance of living history offer both visitors and residents a variety of pleasing experiences. A wealth of events and local entertainment make a visit to Chestertown special at any time of the year. For more information about events and attractions in Kent County, contact the Kent County Visitor Center at 410-778-0416, visit www. kentcounty.com or e-mail tourism@kentcounty.com. For information about the Historical Society of Kent County, call 410-778-3499 or visit www.kentcountyhistory.org/geddes.php. For information specific to Chestertown visit www.chestertown.com. 173
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Queen Anne’s County The history of Queen Anne’s County dates back to the earliest Colonial settlements in Maryland. Small hamlets began appearing in the northern portion of the county in the 1600s. Early communities grew up around transportation routes, the rivers and streams, and then roads and eventually railroads. Small towns were centers of economic and social activity and evolved over the years from thriving centers of tobacco trade to communities boosted by the railroad boom. Queenstown was the original county seat when Queen Anne’s County was created in 1706, but that designation was passed on to Centreville in 1782. It’s location was important during the 18th century, because it is near a creek that, during that time, could be navigated by tradesmen. A hub for shipping and receiving, Queenstown was attacked by English troops during the War of 1812. Construction of the Federal-style courthouse in Centreville began in 1791 and is the oldest courthouse in continuous use in the state of Maryland. Today, Centreville is the largest town in Queen Anne’s County. With its relaxed lifestyle and tree-lined streets, it is a classic example of small town America. The Stevensville Historic District, also known as Historic Stevensville, is a national historic district in downtown Stevensville, Queen Anne’s County. It contains roughly 100 historic structures, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is located primarily along East Main Street, a portion of Love Point Road, and a former section of Cockey Lane. The Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center in Chester at Kent Narrows provides and overview of the Chesapeake region’s heritage, resources and culture. The Chesapeake Heritage and Visitor Center serves as Queen Anne’s County’s official welcome center. Queen Anne’s County is also home to the Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center (formerly Horsehead Wetland Center), located in Grasonville. The CBEC is a 500-acre preserve just 15 minutes from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the area. Embraced by miles of scenic Chesapeake Bay waterways and graced with acres of pastoral rural landscape, Queen Anne’s County offers a relaxing environment for visitors and locals alike. For more information about Queen Anne’s County, visit www.qac.org. 175
HOLI DA Y IN CAR OL I NE C OU NT Y Denton’s Holiday Parade & Lighting of the Green Thursday, December 5th Santa Chase (Martinak State Park) Friday, December 6th Federalsburg Christmas Tree Lighting Friday, December 6th Christmas in Caroline (4-H Park) Saturday, December 7th & Sunday, December 8th Ridgely’s Old Fashioned Christmas Saturday, December 7th Mid-Shore Community Band Holiday Concert (NCHS) Tuesday, December 10th Federalsburg Christmas Parade Monday, December 9th Greensboro’s Parade & Lighting of the City Saturday, December 14th Ridgely’s Live Nativity Pageant Saturday, December 21st
Find out more at V I S I T C A R O L I N E . O R G 176
Caroline County – A Perspective Caroline County is the very definition of a rural community. For more than 300 years, the county’s economy has been based on “market” agriculture. Caroline County was created in 1773 from Dorchester and Queen Anne’s counties. The county was named for Lady Caroline Eden, the wife of Maryland’s last colonial governor, Robert Eden (1741-1784). Denton, the county seat, was situated on a point between two ferry boat landings. Much of the business district in Denton was wiped out by the fire of 1863. Following the Civil War, Denton’s location about fifty miles up the Choptank River from the Chesapeake Bay enabled it to become an important shipping point for agricultural products. Denton became a regular port-ofcall for Baltimore-based steamer lines in the latter half of the 19th century. Preston was the site of three Underground Railroad stations during the 1840s and 1850s. One of those stations was operated by Harriet Tubman’s parents, Benjamin and Harriet Ross. When Tubman’s parents were exposed by a traitor, she smuggled them to safety in Wilmington, Delaware. Linchester Mill, just east of Preston, can be traced back to 1681, and possibly as early as 1670. The mill is the last of 26 water-powered mills to operate in Caroline County and is currently being restored. The long-term goals include rebuilding the millpond, rehabilitating the mill equipment, restoring the miller’s dwelling, and opening the historic mill on a scheduled basis. Federalsburg is located on Marshyhope Creek in the southern-most part of Caroline County. Agriculture is still a major portion of the industry in the area; however, Federalsburg is rapidly being discovered and there is a noticeable influx of people, expansion and development. Ridgely has found a niche as the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” The present streetscape, lined with stately Victorian homes, reflects the transient prosperity during the countywide canning boom (1895-1919). Hanover Foods, formerly an enterprise of Saulsbury Bros. Inc., for more than 100 years, is the last of more than 250 food processors that once operated in the Caroline County region. Points of interest in Caroline County include the Museum of Rural Life in Denton, Adkins Arboretum near Ridgely, and the Mason-Dixon Crown Stone in Marydel. To contact the Caroline County Office of Tourism, call 410-479-0655 or visit their website at www.tourcaroline.com. 177
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“Calendar of Events” notices: Please contact us at 410-714-9389; fax the information to 410-476-6286; write to us at Tidewater Times, P. O. Box 1141, Easton, MD 21601; or e-mail to info@tidewatertimes.com. The deadline is the 1st of the month preceding publication (i.e., December 1 for the January issue). Daily Wye Grist Mill, Wye Mills, open for tours, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 4 p.m. Grinding days are the first and third Saturdays of each month from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Millers demonstrate the traditional stone grinding process. For more info. tel: 410-827-3850 or visit oldwyemill.org.
Every Thurs.-Sat. Amish Country Farmer’s Market in Easton. An indoor market offering fresh produce, meats, dairy products, furniture and more. 101 Marlboro Ave. For more info. tel: 410-822-8989.
Daily Meeting: Mid-Shore Intergroup Alcoholics Anonymous. For places and times, call 410822-4226 or visit midshoreintergroup.org.
Thru Dec. 3 34th annual Festival of Trees ~ A Timeless Christmas in downtown Easton. For a full schedule of activities and venues, visit www.festival-of-trees.org.
Daily Meeting: Al-Anon and Alateen - For a complete list of times
Thru Dec. 4 Annual Members’ Small Originals Holiday Exhi-
and locations in the Mid-Shore a re a, v i sit ea ste r n shore mdalanon.org/meetings.
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December Calendar bition for the Academy Art Museum at the Easton Armory (Waterfowl Festival Bldg.), Easton. Free and open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. Thru Dec. 9 “Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World,” a collaborative program of the Talbot County Department of Social S er v ic e s a nd Ta l b ot Fa m i l y Network, enters its third year with new community sessions. The prog ra m a l lows pa r t icipants to explore the impact of p o ve r t y a nd low w a ge s a nd what it takes to move from just getting by to getting ahead and realizing the future that they really want. Mondays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Easton Family YMCA. Persons interested in participating in this program or individuals or organizations wishing to refer someone to the program should contact Mary Robey, Workforce Specialist, at 410-770-5185 or email mary. robey@maryland.gov. Thru Jan. 5 Exhibit: Un*Sus*Tain*A*Ble at the Main Street Art Gallery, Cambridge, featuring artist Karen O’Dowd. This is a visual portrayal of our unrelenting use of plastic. For more info.
tel: 410-330-4659 or visit www. mainstgallery.org. Thru March 1, 2020 Exhibition: On Land and On Sea ~ A Century of Women in the Rosenfeld Collection at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, St. Michaels. The exhibition features the work of Morris and Stanley Rosenfeld, who created the world’s largest and most significant collection of maritime photography. This exhibition is sponsored by the Mar yland State Arts Council. For more info. tel: 410-745-2916 or visit cbmm.org. Thru April 2020 GAMELTRON@ A AM: Bodyphones in the Museum front yard. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Bodyphones is an immersive insta llat ion by A aron Taylor Kuffner (1975), an Americanborn conceptual artist. For more info. tel: 410-822-ARTS (2787) or
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1-800-808-7622 · www.StMichaelsMD.org 181
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and fans welcome. Donations accepted for the benefit of St. Andrew’s food bank.
visit academyartmuseum.org.
2 Meeting: Cambridge Coin Club at the Dorchester County Public Library. 1st Monday at 7:30 p.m. Annual dues $5. For more info. tel: 443-521-0679. 2
1-31 Exhibit: The featured Working Artist Forum member artist at the Tidewater Inn for December is Martha Holthausen. The public is encouraged to stop in at the Tidewater through December 31 to view Martha’s art. All of the pieces are for sale. For more info. tel: 410-733-5651. 2 Meeting: Bereaved Parents group from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 1st Monday of the month at Compass Regional Hospice, Grief Support Services Wing, Centreville. For more info. visit compassregionalhospice.org. 2 Bluegrass Jam at St. Andrew’s Episcopa l Church, 303 Main St., Hurlock. 1st Monday from 7 to 10 p.m. Bluegrass musicians
Me e t i ng: L i ve Pl ay w r ig ht s’ Society at the Garfield Center, Chestertown. 1st Monday from 7:30 to 9 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-810-2060.
2-4 Three-Day Songwriting Workshop w it h Pau l L ew is at t he Oxford Community Center. 3 to 5 p.m. Students will be introduced to the process of taking a song f rom a whist led melody a nd a few lines to completion and performance. $60. Bring your instrument of choice. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 2 -31 St. Michael s A r t L e ag ue Watercolor Exhibit at the St. M ic h ael s L ibr a r y, i nc lud i ng winners of the annual Martha Hudson Awards for excellence in watercolor. Dr. Jann Haynes Gilmore ser ved as judge. Dr. Gilmore is a noted author, watercolorist and curator of exhibits featuring forgotten women artists. For more info. tel: 202-2640724 or visit smartleague.org.
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Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc. org.
2,4,9,11,16,18,23,30 Core & More Fitness RX Class with instructor Mark Cuviello, owner of Fitness Rx Performance Training Studios, at the Oxford Community Center. $12 per person per class.
2,6,9,13,16,20,23,27,30 Food Distribution at the St. Michaels Community Center on Mondays and Fridays. Open to all Talbot County residents. Must provide identification. Each family can participate once per week. Every Monday: Dinner buffet at Union United Methodist Church. 4 to 7 p.m. Every Friday: Lunch buffet at St. Michaels Community Center. 11 to 3 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-745-6073 or visit stmichaelscc.org.
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December Calendar 2,9,16,23,30 Meeting: Overeaters Anonymous at UM Shore Medical Center in Easton. Mondays from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. For more info. visit oa.org. 2,9,16,23,30 Monday Night Trivia at t he Ma rke t S t r e e t P ubl ic House, Denton. 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Join host Norm Amorose for a fun-filled evening. For more info. tel: 410-479-4720. 3
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Read w it h Wa lly, a Pets on Wheels therapy dog, at the Talbot Count y Free Librar y, St. Michaels. 3:30 p.m. Bring a book or choose a library book and read with Maggie Gowe and her dog, Wally. For more info. tel: 410745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. Meeting: Eastern Shore Amputee Support Group at the Easton Family YMCA. 1st Tuesday at 6 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more info. tel: 410-820-9695.
Oxford Community Center. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:15 a.m. $60/10 classes or $8 per class. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 3,5,10,12,17,19,31 Mixed/Gentle Yoga at Evergreen: A C enter for Balanced Living in Easton. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org. 3,6,10,13,17,20,27,31 Free Blood Pressure Screenings from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays at University of Maryland Shore Medical Center, Cambridge. 3,10,17,31 Free Blood Pressure Screening from 9 a.m. to noon, Tuesdays at University of Maryland Shore Regional Health Diagnostic and Imaging Center, Easton. For more info. tel: 410820-7778.
3,5,10,12,17,19,24,31 Tai Chi at the Oxford Community Center. Tues. and Thurs. at 9 a.m. with Nat ha n Spivey. $75 mont h ly ($10 d r op -i n fe e). For mor e info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org.
3,10,17,31 Meeting: Bridge Clinic Support Group at the UM Shore Medical Center at Dorchester. Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Free, confidential support group for individuals who have been hospitalized for behavioral reasons. For more info. tel: 410-2285511, ext. 2140.
3 , 5 ,10,1 2 ,17,19 , 2 4 ,31 S te ady and Strong exercise class at the
3,10,17 Healing Through Yoga at Talbot Hospice, Easton. Tues-
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necessary. Yoga mats will be provided, and walk-ins are welcome. Free and open to the public. For more info. tel: 410-822-6681 or bdemattia@talbothospice.org.
days from 9 to 10 a.m. This new complementary therapy guides participants through mindfulness and poses that direct healing in positive ways. Participants will learn empowering techniques to cope with grief and honor their loss. No previous yoga experience
3,17 Meeting: Breast Feeding Support Group, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at UM Shore Medical Center, 5th floor meeting room, Easton. For more info. tel: 410-822-1000, ext. 5700 or visit shorehealth.org. 3,17 Afternoon Chess Academy at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 4:30 p.m. Learn and play chess. For ages 6 to 16. Snacks ser ved. Limited space, please pre-register. For more info. tel: Call Us: 410-725-4643
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December Calendar
and friends of addicts. For more info. tel: 800-477-6291 or visit nar-anon.org.
410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 3,17 Cancer Patient Support Group at the Cancer Center at UM Shore Regional Health Center, Idlewild Ave., Easton. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. For more info. tel: 443-254-5940 or visit umshoreregional.org. 3,17 Grief Support Group at the Dorchester County Library, Cambridge. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Coastal Hospice & Palliative Care. For more info. tel: 443-978-0218. 4 We are Builders at the Talbot Count y Free Librar y, St. Michaels. 3:30 p.m. Enjoy STEM and build with Legos and Zoobs. For ages 5 to 12. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 4 Portfolio Night at the Academy Art Museum, Easton. Area high school students are encouraged to bring their work to receive ex per t tips on what makes a winning portfolio. Free. 6 to 8 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. 4 Meeting: Nar-Anon at Immanuel United Church of Christ, Cambridge. 7 to 8 p.m. 1st Wednesday. Support group for families
4-8 Winter Wonderland Music and Tree Festival at Governors Hall, Sailwinds, Cambridge. Throughout the week there will be a craft show, holiday music, tree festival auction, pictures with Santa, a senior dinner, holiday dance and open house. For a full schedule of events, visit governorshallatsailwinds.com. 4-31 Exhibit: Ref lections on Botanical Art at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. Opening reception on December 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 4 ,1 1 ,18 Me e t i ng: We d ne s d ay Morning Artists. 8 a.m. at Creek Deli in Cambridge. No cost. All disciplines and skill levels welcome. Guest speakers, roundtable discussions, studio tours and other art-related activities. For more info. tel: 410-463-0148. 4,11,18 Chair Yoga with Susan Irwin in the St. Michaels Housing Authorit y Communit y Room, Dodson Ave. Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Free. For more info. tel: 410-745-6073 or visit stmichaelscc.org. 4,11,18 The Senior Gathering at the
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December Calendar St. Michaels Community Center, Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a well-prepared meal from Upper Shore Aging. For more info. tel: 410-745-6073 or visit stmichaelscc.org. 4 ,11,18 Acupuncture Clinic at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. Wednesdays from noon to 1 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org. 4,11,18 Meeting: Choptank Writers Group at t he Dorche ster Center for the Arts, Cambridge. Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Everyone interested in writing is invited to join. For more info. tel: 443-521-0039. 4,11,18 Yoga Nidra Meditation at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. Wednesdays from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org.
knitting, beading, needlework and more. Bring your coloring books, Zentangle pens or anything else that fuels your passion to be creative. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 5 Free Family Law Assistance in the Library at the Talbot County Free Librar y, Easton. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. A lawyer will provide free consultations to patrons on how to represent themselves and complete forms for divorce, custody, visitation, child support and more. For more info. tel: 410822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 5 CASA of Caroline Holiday Open House ~ CASA of Caroline will be holding their holiday open house during and after the Denton Christmas Parade and tree lighting. Please stop by for some free refreshments and fun festive activities for the children,
5 Dog Walking at Adkins Arboretum, Ridgely. 1st Thursday at 10 a.m. For more info. tel: 410-6342847, ext. 0 or visit adkinsarboretum.org. 5 Arts & Crafts at the Talbot County Free Library, St. Michaels. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free instruction for 188
including photo ops with jolly Disney Christmas characters like Mickey and Minnie! 114 Market St. in Denton from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. We will also be accepting donations of hats, scarves, mittens, etc. in support of His Hope Ministries. Get your Christmas season star ted w ith CA SA of Caroline! For more info. tel: 410 -479 - 8301 or v isit www. carolinecasa.org. 5 Concert: Christ Botti at the Avalon Theatre, Easton. 8 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-7299 or visit avalonfoundation.org. 5-6 Workshop: Coastal Holiday Ornaments with Maggii Sarfaty
at the Academy Art Museum, Easton. 10 a.m. to noon. $65 members, $80 non-members, plus $10 materials fee. For more info. tel: 410-822-ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. 5,8 Easton Choral Arts Society celebrates the holiday season with Daniel Pink ham’s Christ mas Cantata on Thursday, December 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 8 at 4 p.m. at Christ Church, Easton. Tickets will be $30 at the door and are available online in advance at $25 at www.eastonchoralarts.org or at Ticket Hotline at 410-200-0498. Students will be admitted free (reservation required). Seating
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December Calendar
r Fo ty ll bili a C ila a Av
is limited, so advance ticket purchases are recommended. 5,12,19,26 Men’s Group Meeting at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. Thursdays from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Weekly meeting where men can frankly and openly deal with issues in their lives. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org. 5,12,19,26 Mahjong at the St. Michaels Communit y Center. 10 a.m. to noon on Thursdays. Open to all who want to learn this ancient Chinese game of skill. Drop-ins welcome. Free. For more info. tel: 410-745-6073 or visit stmichaelscc.org. 5,12,19,26 Caregivers Support Group at Talbot Hospice. Thursd ay s at 1 p.m. Th i s ongoi ng we ek ly suppor t g roup i s for caregivers of a loved one with a life-limiting illness. Free and open to the public. For more info. tel: 410-822-6681 or e-mail bdemattia@talbothospice.org. 5,12,19,26 Kent Island Far mer’s Market from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Thursday at Christ Church, 830 Romancoke Rd., Stevensville. For more info. visit kifm830.wixsite.com/kifm. 190
5,19 Meeting: Samplers Quilt Guild from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, Cambridge. The Guild meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month. Prov ide your ow n lunch. For more info. tel: 410-228-1015. 5,19 Classic Yoga at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. 12:30 to 2 p.m. on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month. For more info. tel: 410819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org.
Your Community Theatre
UPCOMING SHOWS
6 First Friday in downtown Easton. Art galleries offer new shows and have many of their artists present throughout the evening. Tour the galleries, sip a drink and explore the fine talents of local artists. 5 to 8 p.m. 6 Moonlight Madness in downtown Easton. Come out to shop for the chance to win raff le prizes, enjoy in-store experiences and hea r live enter t a inment a nd caroling throughout the night. Shop at your favorite participating stores for a better chance to
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For tickets and info. 410-822-7299 or visit www.avalonfoundation.org 191
December Calendar
Rental shoes included. $13.99 every Friday and Saturday night. For more info. visit choptankbowling.com.
win! For more info. visit www. discovereaston.com. 6 First Friday in downtown Chestertown. Join us for our monthly progressive open house. Our businesses keep their doors open later so you can enjoy gallery exhibits, unique shopping, special performances, kids’ activities and a variety of dining options. 5 to 8 p.m. 6 Concert: Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra the Avalon Theatre, Easton. 7 p.m. Holiday Joy: A Salute to the Great Pops Orchestras. For more info. visit www. midatlanticsymphony.org. 6 Dorchester Sw ingers Square Dancing Club meets 1st Friday at Maple Elementary School on Egypt Rd., Cambridge. $7 for guest members to dance. Club members and observers are free. Refreshments provided. 7:30 to 10 p.m. For more info. tel: 410221-1978, 410-901-9711 or visit wascaclubs.com. 6,7,13,14,20,21,27,28 Rock ’N’ Bowl at Choptank Bowling Center, C a mbr idge. Fr idays a nd Saturdays from 9 to 11:59 p.m. Unlimited bowling, food and drink specials, blacklighting, disco lights and jammin’ music.
6,13,20,27 Meeting: Vets Helping Vets ~ Informational meeting to help vets find services. Fridays at Hurlock American Legion #243, 57 Legion Drive, Hurlock. 9:30 a.m. All veterans are welcome. For more info. tel: 410-943-8205 after 4 p.m. 6,13,20,27 Meeting: Friday Morning Artists at Denny’s in Easton. 8 a.m. All disciplines welcome. Free. For more info. tel: 443955-2490. 6,13,20,27 Gentle Yoga at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. Fridays from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org. 6,13,20,27 Bingo! every Friday night at the Easton Volunteer Fire Department on Creamery Lane, Easton. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and games start at 7:30 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-4848. 6-7 Evergreen Easton’s “Handmade from the Heart” on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Refreshments and a cash wine bar including
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mulled wine and hot cider will be available on Friday night with an music performed while shoppers browse the show. On Saturday, a selection of hand-baked goods will be for sale in addition to the ar tisans’ of ferings. For more info. visit evergreeneaston.org.
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7 Winter Walk at Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge. The walks provide a great opportunity to experience areas of the Refuge not usually open to the public, with a good chance of spotting waterfowl and wildlife. Guided walks start promptly at 8 a.m. Registration for each walk is limited to 20 participants, first-come,
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Proceeds from the day’s sales help fund the Episcopal Church Women’s mission projects for the coming year. You will find an eclectic mix of boutique-style vendors featuring a wide array of art, jewelry, home goods, bath and body products and gourmet holiday goodies. For more info. visit www.holytrinityoxfordmd. org.
first-served. Children over 12 are permitted, but no dogs. Walks a re f r e e, but t a x- de duc t ible donations payable to Friends of Eastern Neck are greatly appreciated to keep the program self-sustaining. For more info. tel: 410-639-7160. 7 First Sat urday g uided wa lk. 10 a.m. at Adkins Arboretum, Ridgely. Free for members, $5 admission for non-members. For more info. tel: 410-634-2847, ext. 0 or visit adkinsarboretum.org.
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7 Holiday Bazaar at The Church of the Holy Trinity in Oxford from 9 to noon in the church hall.
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Denton A ntiques Mall Open House from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Come spend the day with us and enjoy food, fellowship and fun. Sa les posted t hroughout t he store. 24690 Meeting House Road, Denton, For more info. tel: 410-479-2200.
7 Bilingual Story Time at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 1:30 p.m. For ages 5 and older. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 7 The Federalsburg Historical Society will hold a Candlelight Tour at the historic house Exeter from 4 to 7 p.m. Free. For more info. visit www.federalsburghistoricalsociety.com or tel: 443-434-3114. 7 The 71st A nnual Cambr idgeDorchester County Christmas Pa rade t ravel s Hig h, Popla r and Race streets to Washington Street beginning at 5 p.m.with pre-parade festivities at the reviewing stand located at Craig’s
Drugstore at 4 p.m. in downtown Cambridge. This year, we proudly present the Chorus of Dorchester as our entertainment highlight. For more info. visit www.christmasparade.org. 7 Easton’s annual holiday parade is back! Festivities start at 6 p.m. with the Easton Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Thompson Park. The parade begins around 6:30 p.m. a nd loops a rou nd downtown Easton with more than 60 unique f loats, classic cars, local bands and Santa himself. Come downtown early and do your holiday shopping, grab a bite to eat and find a great spot along the route to watch the parade.
Seasons Greetings from
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Curtin and Friends at the Oxford Community Center. 7 to 9 p.m. A Christmas on the Creek holiday show for the whole family. $20 includes light refreshments. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org.
Don’t miss the largest parade of the year! 7 Queen Anne’s Chorale Holiday Concert, Christmas in the New World, at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College, Wye Mills. 7 p.m. Selections range from Colonial times to post-Civil War and will be accompanied by a chamber orchestra. A punch and cookie reception follows the performances.$20 for adults with children through high school admitted free. You can also purchase season tickets for $30. For more info. visit www.qachorale.org or tel: 443-262-8146.
7 Concert: DavidBromberg Quintet at the Avalon Theatre, Easton. 8 p.m. For more info. tel: 410822-7299 or visit avalonfoundation.org. 7
7 Mistletoe Musical with Maureen
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18th Annual Midnight Madness in St. Michaels. Shops will be open ’til midnight with refreshments, snacks and special sales all day and evening. With every purchase, you’ll receive raff le tickets to WIN fabulous prizes! Last year, lucky ticket holders
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of the Holy Trinity, Oxford Library’s open house and gift book sale, and the annual tree lighting. Don’t forget to have breakfast with Santa from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday at the Oxford firehouse! Visit the Oxford Museum Dec. 7 & 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. For more info. visit www.portofoxford.com.
won over $17,000 in gift baskets and special bonus prizes. For more info. tel: 410-745-0411 or visit www.stmichaelsmd.org. 7-8 Christmas on the Creek in Oxford. There will be a full schedule of fun activities including the Christmas bazaar at the Church
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7-8 Preston Histor ical Societ y Chr istmas Open House. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. A Christmas Train Garden Display will be on exhibit. A bake sale table will be set up, refreshments will be served and goody bags for children will be handed out. No fee for admission. For more info visit prestonhistoricalsociety. com or tel: 410-924-9080. 7,14,21,28 Anahata Yoga with Cavin Moore at the Oxford Community Center. Saturdays at 8 and 10 a.m. $12/class ~ drop-ins welcome. In Sanskrit, anahata means “unhurt, unstruck and unbeaten.” For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 7,14,21 Easton Farmers Market every Saturday from mid-April through Christmas, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Each week a different local musical artist is featured f rom 10 a.m. to noon. Tow n parking lot on North Harrison
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a covered dish luncheon at the Church of the Nazarene in Denton. “Just Us” will entertain with country and Christmas music. New members are welcome. For more info. tel: 410-482-6039.
Street. Over 20 vendors. Easton’s Farmers Market is the work of the Avalon Foundation. For more info. visit avalonfoundation.org. 8
Firehouse Breakfast at the Oxford Volunteer Fire Company. 8 to 11 a.m. Breakfast with Santa! Proceeds to benefit fire and ambulance services. $10 for adults and $5 for children under 10. For more info. tel: 410-226-5110.
9 Caregiver Support Group at the Talbot County Senior Center, Easton. 2nd Monday, 1 p.m. For more info. tel: 443-746-3698 or visit snhealth.net. 9 Federalsburg Historical Society annual Christmas Open House f rom 6 to 9 p.m. du r ing t he Federalsburg Christmas parade. Stop by for a cup of hot cider and homemade gingersnaps and enjoy the Museum as it glows
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8 Concert: Eric Byrd Trio's Charlie Brown Christmas at the Avalon Theatre, Easton. 8 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-7299 or visit avalonfoundation.org.
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9 Meeting: Caroline County AARP Chapter #915 meets at noon with
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December Calendar with Yuletide displays. Free. For more info. visit www.federalsburghistoricalsociety.com or tel: 443-434-3114. 10 Advance Healthcare Planning at Talbot Hospice, Easton. 2nd Tuesday at 11 a.m. Hospice staff and trained volunteers will help you understand your options for advance healthcare planning and complete your advance directive paperwork, including the Five Wishes. Free and open to the public. For more info. tel: 410822-6681 to register. 10 Family Craf ts at the Talbot
Count y Free Librar y, St. Michaels. 3:30 p.m. Holiday/winter crafts. For more info. tel: 410745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 10 Navy League Christmas dinner event featuring the Queen Anne’s Chorale at the Talbot Country Club, Easton. Social hour begins at 5 p.m. $45 per person. For more info. tel: 410-827-6350 or e-mail chbpeg@me.com. 10 Pet Loss Support Group from 6 to 7 p.m. at Talbot Hospice, Easton. Monthly support group for those griev ing the loss of a beloved pet. Hosted jointly by Talbot Humane and Talbot Hospice. Free and open to the
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December Calendar public. For more info. contact Linda Elzey at lwelzey@gmail. com or Talbot Humane at 410822-0107. 10 Meeting: Us Too Prostate Cancer Support Group at UM Shore Regional Cancer Center, Idlewild Ave., Easton. 2nd Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-820-6800, ext. 2300 or visit umshoreregional.org. 10 Meeting: Tidewater Stamp Club at the Old Railway Station on Pennsylvania Ave., Easton. 2nd Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. For more info. tel: 301-704-3811 or visit twstampclub.com. 10,24 Meeting: Buddhism Study Group at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living, Easton. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Open to the public. For more info. tel: 410-819-3395 or visit evergreeneaston.org. 11 Story Time at the Talbot County Free Librar y, St. Michaels at 10:30 a.m. For children ages 5 and under accompanied by an adult. For more info. tel: 410-7455877 or visit tcfl.org. 11 Holiday Card Making at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 10:30 a.m. to noon. This is an
adult program. Space is limited, so pre-registration is required. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 11 Bay Hundred Chess Class at the Talbot County Free Library, St. Michaels. 1 to 3 p.m. Beginners welcome. For all ages. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 11 Meet ing: Choptank Wr iters Group, 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Dorchester Center for the Arts, C a mbr id ge. Ever yone i nter ested in w riting is inv ited to participate. For more info. tel: 443-521-0039. 11 Dance Classes for Non-Dancers at Evergreen: A Center for Balanced Living in Easton. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. $12 per person, $20 for both classes. For more info. tel: 410-200-7503 or visit continuumdancecompany.org. 11 Open Mic at the Academy Art Museum, Easton. Theme: Frozen. Share and appreciate the rich tapestry of creativity, skills and knowledge that thrive here. A ll ages and styles of performance are welcome. The event is open to all ages. 7 to 9 p.m. Admission is free. Snacks provided; nominal charge for bev-
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December Calendar
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erages. For more info. e-mail RayRemesch@gmail.com. 11 Annual Holiday Potluck at the Oxford Communit y Center. 7 p.m. Break bread together this holiday season and enjoy a theatrical show from the after-school kids. Free, but RSVP. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 12 Mid-Shore Pro Bono Legal Clinic at the Caroline County Senior Center, Denton. 2nd Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon. For more info. and to schedule an appointment tel: 410-690-8128 or visit
12 Memoir Writers at the Talbot Count y Free Librar y, St. Michaels. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Record and share your memories of life a nd fa mi ly. Pa r t icipa nt s a re invited to bring their lunch. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 12 Lunch & Learn: Reflections on Botanical Art with Lee D’Zmura and Anna Harding at the Talbot County Free Librar y, Easton. Noon. Pre-registration is required. For more info. tel: 410822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 12 Therapeutic Horticulture with
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Master Gardener Mikaela Boley at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 5 p.m. This will include a ha nd s- on ac t iv it y. Pre-registration required. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 12 Workshop: Decorative Gingerbread with Maggii Sarfaty at the Academy Art Museum, Easton. 6 to 8 p.m. $65 members, $80 non-members, plus $12 (cookie) or $20 (house) fee. For more info. tel: 410-822-ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. 12-15 Christmas in St. Michaels: For more than a quarter-century, both ticketed and free events
including the Tour of Homes, Holiday Gala, Breakfast w ith Santa and largest Holiday Parade on the Eastern Shore have celebrated t he ar r iva l of t he Christmas season. Companion weekend events sponsored by local churches include a Christmas greenery bazaar, a Saturday Eastern Shore Dinner and two holiday choir concerts. For additional shopping, St. Michaels stores will be decked out with holiday lights, decorations and g i f t sele c t ion s. More t ha n a dozen restaurants offer a variety of dining opportunities over the weekend as well. For a schedule of events and to purchase tickets, visit christmasinstmichaels.org.
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December Calendar
adventure! Take a look through our telescope as we explore our galaxy and watch for shooting stars during the amazing Geminids meteor shower. Listen to stories about how the constellations were born and make your own constellation to take home w ith you! For more info. tel: 410-822-4903 or visit pickering. audubon.org.
13 Mid-Shore Pro Bono Legal Clinic at the Dorchester County Public Library, Cambridge. 2nd Friday from 10 a.m. to noon. For more info. and to schedule an appointment, tel: 410-690-8128 or visit midshoreprobono.org. 13 Holiday Cookie Decorating at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Fun for the whole family! For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 13 Starry, Starry Night at Pickering Creek Audubon Center, Easton. 8 to 10 p.m. Come join us for a night of starry wonder and
13-14 St. Michaels Art League Exhibit and Sale. The St. Michaels Art League presents a special pairing during the Christmas in St. Michaels weekend at the St. Michaels Winery. Preview the exhibit at a reception open to the public 5 to 6:30 p .m. on Friday.
Martha’s Closet Yard Sale Huge selection of clothing (sorted by size), toys, books, kitchen items, small appliances, knickknacks, decorations, and much, much more. All at Very Affordable Prices! Open every 2nd & 4th Saturday - 7 to 10 a.m. and every Wednesday - 8:30 a.m. to Noon. Wesley Hall at Trappe United Methodist Church Maple Ave., Trappe We regularly give clothes to the Salvation Army, the Lutheran Mission, the Neighborhood Center, St. Martin's Barn, and area nursing homes. Whenever a family is in dire need, they are welcome to what we have.
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Free hors d’oeuvres; cash bar. The sale will be held Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info. tel: 202-264-0724. 1 3-1 4 C onc er t: Che s ter R iver Chorale’s 21st Holiday Concert w ith the Chester River Youth Choir and backed by f lute, harp, oboe, organ, piano, percussion and strings. Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown. No tickets sold, so come early to get a seat. Suggested donation is $20, with children free. For more info. visit www.chesterriverchorale.org. 13-22 Elf the Musical at the Avalon Theatre, Easton. Come out and enjoy this fun presentation of the Avalon Foundation’s annual holiday celebration and fundraiser starring more than 100 of your friends and neighbors. All
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December Calendar ticket proceeds go toward the Foundation’s year-round mission to provide diversified arts and educational programs that improve the quality of life here on the Eastern Shore. For a full schedule of show, and for tickets, visit tickets.avalontheatre.com/ eventperformances. 13,14,15 Concert: The Tidewater Singers will present an a cappella concert spanning early music by Giovanni Gabrieli and Jan Sweelink through contemporary favorite Ola Gjeilo, plus perennial chestnuts (and surprises). Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Trinity Cathedral in Easton; on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church in St. Michaels; and on Sunday at 4 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Cambridge. Advance tickets for the Easton and St. Michaels performances may be purchased online at www.tidewatersingers.org and at Cracker Jacks in Easton, at 1-888-752-0023 or
tidewatersingers@gmail.com. Information and tickets for the C a mbr idge per for ma nc e a re available at 410-228-3161. 14 Country Church Breakfast at Faith Chapel and Trappe United Methodist churches in Wesley Ha l l, Trappe. 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. TUMC is also the home of “Martha’s Closet” Yard Sale and Community Outreach Store, open during the breakfast and e ver y Wed ne sd ay f rom 8:30 a.m. to noon. 1 4 Friends of the Librar y Second Saturday Book Sale at the Dorchester County Public Library, Cambridge. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 adults and children ages 3+. For more info. tel: 410-228-7331 or visit dorchesterlibrary.org. 14 Annual Book Sale at the Talbot Count y Free Librar y, St. Michaels. 9 a.m. For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org. 14 Class: Family Ornament Day
Be a Mentor Be a Friend! For more information, to make a contribution, or to volunteer as a mentor, call Talbot Mentors at 410-770-5999 or visit www.talbotmentors.org. 210
in Historic Downtown Cambridge on Race, Poplar, Muir and High streets. Shops will be open late. Galleries will be opening new shows and holding receptions. Restaurants w ill feature live music. 5 to 9 p.m. For more info. visit CambridgeMainStreet.com.
at the Academy Art Museum, Easton. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free. For more info. tel: 410 -822ARTS (2787) or visit academyartmuseum.org. 14 Dog Walking at Adkins Arboretum, Ridgely. 2nd Saturday at 10 a.m. For more info. tel: 410 - 634-2847, ext. 0 or v isit adkinsarboretum.org. 14 Second Saturday at the Artsway from 1 to 5 p.m., 401 Market Street, Denton. Interact w ith artists as they demonstrate their work. For more info. tel: 410-4791009 or visit carolinearts.org. 14 Second Saturday and Art Walk
14 Second Saturday Art Night Out in St. Michaels. Take a walking tour of St. Michaels’ six fine art galleries, all centrally located on Talbot Street. For more info. tel: 410-745-9535 or visit townofstmichaels.org. 14 Crab Pot Tree Lighting: Tilghman Island residents will again kick off the holidays on Decem-
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December Calendar ber 14. There will be a cocktail party at The Bridge Restaurant at 5:30 p.m. Meet Santa from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in one of the classrooms at Phillips Wharf and enjoy some cocoa and cookies. The Great Crab Pot Tree Lighting will follow at 6:30 p.m. on the Phillips Wharf campus. The tree lighting will be followed by the lighted boat parade at 7 p.m. and the awards ceremony at 7:45 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-886-9200 or visit www.pwec.org. 14 Night Watch Concer t at the Oxford Communit y Center. 7 p.m. Enjoy a favorite local band. $10. For more info. tel: 410-2265904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 16 Caregiver Support Group at the Talbot County Senior Center, Easton. 3rd Monday at 1 p.m. For more info. tel: 443-746-3698 or visit snhealth.net. 16 Read w it h T iger, a Pet- on-
Wheels therapy dog, at the Talbot County Free Librar y, Easton. 4 p.m. Bring a book or choose one from the library’s shelves to read with Janet Dickey and her dog, Tiger. For ages 5 and up. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org. 18 Meeting: Bayside Quilters, 2nd Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Easton Volunteer Fire Department on Aurora Park Drive, Easton. Guests are welcome, memberships are available. For more info. e -mail mhr2711@ gmail.com. 18 Me et i ng: Dorche ster C a re g ivers Suppor t Group. 3rd Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m. at Pleasant Day Adult Medical Day Care, Cambridge. For more info. tel: 410-228-0190. 18 Meeting: Grief Support for Suicide group from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at Compass Regional Hospice, Grief Support Ser vices Wing,
500 Talbot Street, St. Michaels 410-714-0334
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Friends of Blackwater
The Friends of Blackwater is a nonprofit citizens support group founded in 1987, assisting Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge in Cambridge, Maryland and the Chesapeake Marshlands National Wildlife Refuge Complex to carry out their educational, interpretive, and public use missions.
410-228-2677 Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge 2145 Key Wallace Drive, Cambridge, Maryland 21613 www.friendsofblackwater.org 213
December Calendar Centreville. For more info. visit compassregionalhospice.org. 18 Meet ing: Bay water Camera Club at the Dorchester Center for the A rts, Cambridge. 2nd Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. All are welcome. For more info. tel: 443-939-7744. 19 Family Unplugged Games at the Talbot County Free Library, St. Michaels. 3:30 p.m. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of board games and fun. For all ages (children 5 and under accompanied by an adult). For more info. tel: 410-745-5877 or visit tcfl.org.
19 Third Thursday in downtown Denton from 5 to 7 p.m. Shop for one-of-a-kind floral arrangements, gifts and home décor, dine out on a porch with views of the Choptank River or enjoy a stroll around town as businesses extend their hours. For more info. tel: 410-479-0655. 19 Meeting: Grief Support for Overdose Loss group from 6 to 8 p.m. on the 3rd Thursday of the month at Compass Regional Hospice, Grief Support Ser vices Wing, Centreville. For more info. visit compassregionalhospice.org. 23 Oxford Book Club meets the 4th Monday of every month at the Oxford Community Center. 10:30 a.m. to noon. For more info. tel: 410-226-5904 or visit oxfordcc.org. 23 Stitching Time at the Talbot County Free Library, Easton. 3 to 5 p.m. Work on your favorite project with a group. Limited instruction for beginners. Newcomers welcome. For more info. tel: 410-822-1626 or visit tcfl.org.
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Concert: Yarn at the Avalon Theatre, Easton. 8 p.m. For more info. tel: 410-822-7299 or visit avalonfoundation.org.
31 26th annual First Night Talbot in downtown Easton. Festivities 214
take place in a variety of indoor and outdoor venues in downtown Ea ston, a l l host ing a mi x of performers: choral and gospel mu s ic , d a nc e , i n s t r u ment a l performances, live theater, storytelling, juggling, face painting, a photo booth, children’s
cra f t s, fa m i ly ac t iv it ie s a nd more. Entertainment begins at 6 p.m. Admission to every event venue for the entire evening can be made by purchasing an artful, collectible “Crab Button” for $10/adult, $5/student (through college), and children under 5 are free. Buttons may also be purchased in advance at www. firstnighttalbot.org. 31 Concert: Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra at Christ Church, Easton. 7 p.m. A Toast to the New Year! For more info. visit www. midatlanticsymphony.org.
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SHORELINE REALTY 114 Goldsborough St., Easton, MD 21601 410-822-7556 · 410-310-5745 www.shorelinerealty.biz · bob@shorelinerealty.biz
Join the wood ďŹ red revolution this holiday season!
Looking for great gift ideas? Come see us for all things Traeger, YETI, Primo, & more!
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Merry Christmas!