Tidewater Times
December 2020
www.SaintMichaelsWaterfront.com
LITTLE MULBERRY POINT, Bozman - One of Talbot County’s premier points of land, at the confluence of Broad Creek, Edge Creek, San Domingo Creek and Choptank River. Sunrise and sunset views don’t get any bigger or better than this! Improvements include a well-built 1960’s brick home, waterside pool and deep water dock (6’ MLW). St. Michaels is just minutes away, by land or by sea. $2,300,000
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
TRADITIONAL MADE MODERN
DÉCOR
|
GIFTS
|
TA B L E TO P
|
FURNISHINGS
8 0 3 G O L D S B O R O U G H S T, E A S TO N
JAMIEMERIDA.COM
1
|
|
CUSTOM FRAMING
410.819.8666
Since 1924
Design Services Available
Century • Hickory Chair • Lee • Wesley Hall • The Ralph Lauren Home Collection
J. Conn Scott 6 E. Church St. Selbyville, DE
302 · 436 · 8205
Showhouse
27 Baltimore Ave. Rehoboth Beach, DE
302 · 227٠3780
jconnscott.com 2
Interiors
19535 Camelot Dr. Rehoboth Beach, DE
302 · 227٠1850
Vol. 69, No. 7
Published Monthly
December 2020
Features: About the Cover Photographer: Lori R. Bramble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Hairdressers: Helen Chappell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Leading With Love: Tracey F. Johns. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Rock Steady Boxing for YMCA's Parkinson's Champs: Bonna Nelson . . 41 Tidewater Kitchen: Pamela Meredith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Tidewater Gardening: K. Marc Teffeau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81 Lyon Rum and Gray Wolf ~ Superlative Spirits: Mike Valliant . . . . . . . 95 Hurleys Neck: A.M. Foley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Changes ~ All American (Part XV): Roger Vaughan . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Departments: December Tide Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Easton Map and History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Caroline County ~ A Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Queen Anne’s County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 St. Michaels Map and History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Oxford Map and History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 Kent County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Tilghman ~ Bay Hundred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Dorchester Map and History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Anne B. Farwell & John D. Farwell, Co-Publishers Proofing: Jodie Littleton & Kippy Requardt Deliveries: Nancy Smith, April Jewel & Brandon Coleman Social Media Liaison: Mary Farwell P. O. Box 1141, Easton, Maryland 21601 3947 Harrison Circle, Trappe, Maryland 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 $30.00 per year. Individual copies are $4. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or whole without prior approval of the publisher. Printed by Delmarva Printing, Inc. The publisher does not assume any liability for errors and/or omissions.
3
4
5
Voted Best Interior Design Services and Furniture Store on the Shore! The finest in home furnishings, interior design, appliances, floor coverings, custom draperies and re-upholstery. 902 Talbot Street, St. Michaels, MD 410-745-5192 · 410-822-8256 · Mon. - Fri. 8-5, Sat. 10 - 4 higginsandspencer.com · higginsandspencer.hdwfg.com 6
About the Cover Photographer Lori R. Bramble A Dorchester County native, Lori currently lives on Ross Neck Road in the Dorchester neck district. She has been an amateur photographer for almost 35 years and enjoys nature photography and living on the Eastern Shore. Like most photographers, she started with taking photos of her family. Then she began photographing local scenes around the water. She has continued to do this every year for Christmas cards. Lori’s focus is nature photography, wildlife and the scenery around the Mid-Shore. The two things she enjoys photographing
the most are sunflowers and the great blue heron, and she cherishes the opportunity to share those photos with others. As she likes to say, “nothing beats life on the Shore.” Lori’s photos have been published in Tidewater Times, Birds & Blooms Magazine, the Department of Natural Resources Magazine and Attraction magazine, as well as on the Facebook pages for all four magazines, the Dorchester Chamber of Commerce Facebook page, the Chamber’s directory, and numerous other social media pages. You can view her photos on her Instagram page.
7
Wishing you a holiday season filled with warmth and comfort!
Benefits | Commercial | Personal AveryHall.com
Serving the Mid-Shore Since 1925 Easton 410.822.7300
Salisbury 410.742.5111
Seaford 302.629.4514
8
Bridgeville 302.337.8231
Milton 302.684.3413
Hairdressers by Helen Chappell
Hairdressers fascinate me. For one thing, they have a skill I can never have, the ability to trim something more than your bangs without disaster, and the grace not to say I told you so when you have to come in to get them to fix what you destroyed in a fit of boredom, too much wine or being trapped in the house for days during a weather event or being dumped. The bang damage on this last can make Mamie Eisenhower’s bangs look classy.
and would only grow about down to my collar. I used to iron it to straighten it out, a typical teenage fashion victim. And I wasn’t the only one who ironed my hair to straighten it out. Ask Jackie O. She used PermaStrait, too. A lot of white women did in those days. But as curly hair became fashionable again, I was in. Even if you’re just in there for a trim or a touch-up, the salon can soothe and relax you. It can be a safe space. Or a trip through an Ocean City Horror House in a glass bottom boat. When I lived in New York, I used to go to a frighteningly chic salon called Antenna, where it felt like the haughty trendy hairdressers were doing you a favor by touching your hair and the silent fat shaming was louder than a shriek. Of course, Jason, who cut my hair, was a terrifying young queen who did the heads of the kinds of women who appeared in the glossy magazines and the gossip columns. I was so intimidated I thought maybe I had deserved to be treated like leftovers. I guess I got the message Antenna wasn’t my kind of place when he cut my hair to about three quarters of an inch long. It
Until recently, my hair and I have had an uneasy relationship. In high school, the rage was straight, plastered-to-the-skull long hair. Mine was as curly as a Brillo pad 9
Hairdressers
Twin Commissions by Hiu Lai Chong
was not and is not a good look on a woman with a face like a pie plate. However, I didn’t have to get a haircut for six months afterwards, so there is that. The other thing is, when you have very curly hair, it’s hard to find someone who actually understands how to cut it. It’s a skill, a gift, a talent, and not everyone has it. So, I spent a lot of my life shopping around for someone who could whack those curls. Many years ago, I found someone who was a genius at it, but she moved to Nebraska, and I didn’t have the plane fare to fly out there every six weeks, so the search was on. At some point, spending a lot of time in shops where a lot of hairdressers rented chairs (see? I even learned the lingo), I started becoming a serious student of the breed and the culture. And it is a culture, mostly but not all feminine, a place of rituals and spells and all things related to making you beautiful, or at least feel beautiful, and that’s the point, isn’t it? Being cut, groomed, colored, manicured and transformed is good for a woman’s soul. It’s me time. And a lot of hairdressers become, like bartenders, confidantes and amateur therapists. While they work your hair or do your nails, they listen to the secrets and troubles and hopes and opinions
Oil
Come celebrate the season with us as we preview a collection of “Small Treasures of Art.” Happy Holidays! Betty Huang, an accomplished artist herself, represents such notable painters as Master Jove Wang, Hiu Lai Chong, Ken DeWaard, Qiang Huang, Bernard Dellario and sculptor Rick Casali.
Looking forward to seeing you! Look for the OPEN sign! 7B Goldsborough St., Easton 443-988-1818 www.studioBartgallery.com 10
Create your outdoor oasis!
Pools • Outdoor Entertaining Areas • Landscaping 410-266-8700 www.olmobros.com 11
12
Bringing you the Best of Holiday Presents!
Unique Home Furnishings & Interior Design Services
13 Goldsborough Street ♌ Easton, Maryland 410.822.2211 ♌ Open Mon. - Sat. 10-5
www.dwellinganddesign.com 13
Pre-Lit Crab Pot Christmas Trees
for display Indoors or Outdoors
Trees Crab Pot
NOT JUST for CHRISTMAS
Made from pvc-coated crab pot wire · Folds flat for storage Great for Docks · 1½’ - 8’ Clear & Multi in stock
the
LumberYard LUMBER · MILLWORK · HARDWARE
1206 Talbot St., St. Michaels · 410-745-2533 www.thelumberyardinc.com 14
Hairdressers
around you is very soothing. I like the people watching, too. I found the culture so fascinating I wanted to write a novel where the heroine is a hairdresser. Tired of being taken for granted by her husband and her daughters and parents, she wins some money in the lottery and moves out of the house, leaving the family to a rude awakening when they have to take care of themselves. . . It’s still a fragment, but maybe someday I’ll finish it. Sometimes, you start an idea, and then life interferes and then you find fate has handed you new material. Or not. Several years ago, I drifted by accident into the capable hands of Helene Higgins’ St. Michaels Salon, and there I have come to rest. I
you pour into their shell-pink ears. They can dole out advice or just listen. I’m told it is a part of the job. And salons smell nice, and the buzz of hair dryers and conversations all
15
Hairdressers owe Helene a lot. First, she tackled my curly hair, which she actually understood, then she convinced me to stop covering my white hair with color. (The compliments, Helene, the compliments on my platinum white hair are all for you!) And Helene’s mom, the Legendary Miss Doris, and her daughter Michaela, who does my claws, have become like family to me, as have the ladies who work in the salon. It’s about as far from the superciliousness of Antenna as you can get, but then the Shore is a long way from Manhattan, so there is that. A high tide f loats all boats. So, when Helene and her contractor
husband, Ed, bought a derelict house just this side of St. Michaels and set about remodeling it into the salon and spa of Helene’s dreams, we were all excited. Ever since I’d known her, she’d
Have a Cozy Holiday!
Now in our 17th Year! 410-770-4374 20 Goldsborough St., Easton, MD lizzydee.wix.com/lizzydee
16
17
Hairdressers
from everything for a while. Which is exactly what I need. At last, I’ve found a place of beauty and rejuvenation where I don’t feel like a peasant in a palace. Maybe I’ve just gotten more confident in my old age, or maybe I’ve finally come home. My hair is happier than it’s ever been. And I don’t have to straighten it anymore.
rented a space, but I knew she wanted her own property with room to expand her services. Now she has it. They took that shack and turned it into something special. The exterior is a sunny shade of yellow, and the interior is cool and spacious. In addition to her hairdressing team, her barber, a hair restoration expert and mani-pedi services, the salon now offers facials and massages. It’s quite a staff and a chocolate-box selection of services. I know where I’m going to spend my Christmas money. Helene’s motto for her clients is: I just need a break
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. PO IN AVA SETT IA I DE LABL S C. 5 E -12
ANNUAL HOLIDAY CHARITY FUNDRAISER BENEFITING CRITCHLOW ADKINS DUE TO COVID RESTRICTIONS CALL FOR CURBSIDE PICK-UP
18
Storewide Holiday Sale
December 1st - 24th *some exclusions apply
19
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
WATERFRONT COTTAGE brimming with light and loaded with charm. Thoughtfully updated, this delightful home sits at the end of a private road. Main level has 2 bedrooms, full bath, laundry/ mudroom. Upper level improved with spacious primary suite. The real bonus is 7 boat slips plus a floating dock, all with 4 ft. +/- mlw. Income producing vacation rental as well as income from slip rentals. $575,000
BREATHTAKING SUNSETS and wide panoramic views. Escape to Loblolly Cove, just minutes from St. Michaels. One story living on almost 5 private acres. Modern floorplan with gourmet kitchen, living and dining open to screened porch with beamed ceiling and patio surrounding the in-ground pool. 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, game room, pier with lift. Not in a flood zone. A highly successful vacation rental. $1,995,000
20
Leading with Love by Tracey F. Johns
“God doesn’t call the equipped. He equips the called,” says John Coleman of Trappe, Md. Coleman lives his life answering that call and being equipped in many ways ~ in his police work; in his singing and in giving a good sermon; and in his community work mentoring children and officers wanting to make a difference. Older people growing up in Talbot County may know him as Officer Coleman through his days with the Easton Police Department. Or, you may be one of more than 200,000 people who have seen him sing “Jesus I Believe” as part of Christ Church, Easton, Md.’s music performances posted to Facebook since the COVID pandemic’s beginnings. Others may know him as a lay speaker at Zion Methodist Church in Federalsburg. Younger generations and their parents may know him through his visits and talks at local schools, serving as a Talbot County Sheriff’s Department D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer and serving with the program since 1993. Coleman is also now a D.A.R.E. Mentor, helping to train new officers. The D.A.R.E. program is a police officer-led series
of classroom lessons that teaches children from kindergarten through 12th grade how to resist peer pressure and live productive drug- and violence-free lives. No matter how you know John Coleman, one thing remains the same. He always leads with love. Coleman remembers coming to his mother at 8 years old, frustrated with the world ~ and carrying his and his father’s embitterment toward white people, in particular. He had just completed a school report on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and he says the following con-
21
Wishing Everyone a Happy and Safe Holiday!
WAVERLY ISLAND ROAD - “One Particular Harbor”- Fabulous 5,000+ sq. ft. brick waterfront home with pool in desirable Waverly Island location in Oxford Road Corridor. Situated on 2+ acres in private park like setting on Platters Cove off of the Tred Avon River, this contemporary mostly one level home boasts 4+ bedrooms, and well defined living spaces including a large River room with panoramic water views, formal living room (wood burning fireplace), formal dining room and a family room. Spacious kitchen with granite, high end appliances, pantry and tons of cabinets. First fl oor primary bedroom suite with wood burning fireplace and luxurious primary bathroom. Additional first fl oor bedroom/library with full bath. 3 bedrooms up with full bath and study. Septic approved for 4 bedroom. Outdoor features include patio, large deck, oversized deep gunite pool with 9’ deep end. Property has 4+ MLW, 480’ shoreline with rip rap and protected harbor, bulkhead slip, and a 10K boatlift. Attached 2 car garage and workshop. $1,995,000. www.7302WaverlyIslandRoad.com
Waterfront Estates, Farms and Hunting Properties also available.
Kathy Christensen
410-924-4814(C) · 410-822-1415(O ) Benson & Mangold Real Estate 27999 Oxford Road, Oxford, Maryland 21654 kccamb@gmail.com · www.kathychristensen.com
22
PARTRIDGE POINT FARM - First time offered! Quintessential Eastern Shore estate farm on 72+/acres on Bolingbroke Creek. Situated on a high bluff with sweeping water views, this property boasts a custom 4 bedroom Timberpeg home with European influences, 3 bedroom guest house. pier, boat ramp, pond, barns and outbuildings. . Main house features include vaulted ceilings, arched beams, hardwood fl oors, 2 story foyer, multiple fireplaces and water views from every room. First and second fl oor primary bedroom suites with full primary baths. All bedrooms en-suite. Formal living room enhanced by wood burning fireplace, study with fireplace and built ins. Large kitchen with island and family room with oversized fireplace. Screened waterside porch, multiple patios and 2 garages. 3 bedroom guest house has open fl oor plan, wood burning fireplace and large screened in porch. Pier on protected cove with small boat ramp. Large dairy barn, run in shed and block out building. Offered for $2,900,000 www.PartridgePointFarm.com
Waterfront Estates, Farms and Hunting Properties also available.
Kathy Christensen
410-924-4814(C) · 410-822-1415(O ) Benson & Mangold Real Estate 27999 Oxford Road, Oxford, Maryland 21654 kccamb@gmail.com · www.kathychristensen.com
23
Leading with Love
changed my insight into a character-building watershed moment.” Coleman grew up in Denton, Md., as the youngest of six brothers and sisters, including Prudence Regina (Gina), who was gifted with Down’s syndrome before passing at the age of 60 nearly five years ago. Half-sister Mary Bailey is the oldest of his siblings, followed by Ron, Gina, Vonda (Diane), William (Junebug) and James Henry (Henry). (Editor's Note: John's brother, William, passed in November of this year). His mother and father grew up in the Carolinas, with the couple
versation with his mother changed his life forever. “She seized a teachable moment and told me to have a seat as she was baking a cake. She was filling the cake pans and knew she had my full attention since I was going to be able to lick the batter bowl. “She explained the whole idea of judging people by the content of character, not by the color of their skin, despite the fact I was angry about being called the ‘n-word’ so much as an 8-year-old. I stated I was done with white people. She
John Coleman with his wife, Barbara, and two of their children, Joy and Brandon. 24
“Connecting You To Success”
Merrilie D. Ford REALTOR · CRS
RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL $315,000
THIS THREE BEDROOM, TWO BATH CONDO located close to all that Easton has to offer. Residential/Commercial possibilities allow you to work from home. Overlooking the scenic ponds at Bay St., this unit has a Kitchen, LR/DR Combo, first floor Primary Suite with Den, Laundry Rm., second floor Guest BR, Sitting Room, full Bath, and One-Car attached garage. Personal residence or professional office, or both, await you and your personal touches.
28480 St. Michaels Road, Easton
410-770-3600 · 410-310-6622 · 800-851-4504 merrilie.ford@longandfoster.com www.mdfordskipjack.com 25
Chuck Mangold Jr. - Associate Broker BENSON & MANGOLD R E A L E S TAT E C 410.924.8832
O 410.822.6665
chuck@chuckmangold.com · www.chuckmangold.com 31 Goldsborough Street, Easton, Maryland 21601
Cookes Hope - approx. 6,000 sf home offer 6 BRs, 4 full BAs & 1 powder room. Open floor plan with custom millwork. Chef’s kitchen has Viking & SubZero appliances, granite & stone & breakfast bar w/ sea�ng for 4, room for casual dining & is open to the family room. Private guest/in-law suite. $1,295,000 · Visit www.28623OldPastureDrive.com
Set on 4.48+/- acres, this WF, custom-built 4 BR, 3.5 BA home though�ully designed by an engineer is ideal. Formal si�ng room that opens to back deck, dining room, gourmet kitchen w/comm. Kitchenaid appliances, family room w/WB FP, main level owner’s suite BR w/gas fireplace, lg 2nd floor theater. $1,495,000 · Visit www.3761MargitsLane.com
26
Chuck Mangold Jr. - Associate Broker BENSON & MANGOLD R E A L E S TAT E C 410.924.8832
O 410.822.6665
chuck@chuckmangold.com · www.chuckmangold.com 31 Goldsborough Street, Easton, Maryland 21601
Piney Neck Point stuns with nearly 360-degree water views. Exquisite 7,231+/- sq. �. home, 4 bedrooms with en-suite baths, rec room, office with built-in library, gourmet kitchen. In-ground pool, pool house, outdoor kitchen, cabana bath, spa, gazebo, pier with boat li�, & floa�ng dock. $4,495,000 · Visit www.257ProspectBayDriveW.com
One of the best loca�ons in historic downtown Easton. Currently an inn but has many poten�al uses w/central business commercial zoning. Poten�al residen�al. This historic structure features 7 en-suite rooms, commercial kitchen, large gathering areas & screen porch. Shown by appointment only. $1,095,000 · Visit www.28SouthHarrisonStreet.com
27
Leading with Love moving to Denton following William Coleman’s work constructing many of the roads leading up to Maryland. His father later worked for David A. Bramble, Inc., retiring in the ’90s. Coleman says his mother, Goldie Coleman (nee Cooper), excelled as a high school student and always wanted to be a nurse, but instead became a factory worker at Allen Foods while raising her children. Now Coleman’s mother is facing Alzheimer’s disease and lives in Denton with his sister at their family residence. Coleman attended Caroline County Public Schools, where he participated in choral arts, theater arts and student government. He also wrestled, “threw things” in track and played football, where he excelled as an offensive lineman. He says he feels that role offered a parallel to the lessons of the D.A.R.E. program. “As an offensive lineman, you are often leading and making way for the running back and protecting the quarterback,” he says. “You’re blocking the opposition ~ like in a running play ~ so that progress can be made down the field and the team can score. The D.A.R.E. program helps students in the same way by helping students lead their lives for success while blocking interference from the effects of drugs
and violence on a person’s life.” Coleman also knows the value of mentorship because those helping him along the way have inf luenced his life’s trajectory. His longtime mentors include Maryland State D.A.R.E. Coordinator Claude Nelson and PO3 George Stephens, who is a Senior D.A.R.E. Mentor assigned to Montgomery County Police Department’s Training Academy. Others inf luencing his life include Sunday school and public school teachers; pastors and other church people; and numerous police officers, including retired Denton police officer Joe Green and Chief Bill Davis. Coleman says one of the biggest inf luences in his life was Roger Scofield ~ the first black man on 28
DIAMOND HALL 4.5 MLW on Tred Avon $1,375,000
TRAVELERS REST LOT 4 ac. waterfront lot w/sw exposure $795,000
203 DOVER STREET Zoned comm./res. w/off-street parking $749,500
By land or by sea we can show you the best of life on the Chesapeake. Kurt Petzold, Broker
Chesapeake Bay Properties
Brian Petzold
Established 1983 102 North Harrison Street • Easton, Maryland 21601 • 410-820-8008 www.chesapeakebayproperty.com | chesbay@goeaston.net 29
Cheri Cheri Bruce-Phi Bruce-Phi
T T R S O T H E B Y ’ S I N T E R N AT I O N A T T R S O T H E B Y ’ S I N T E R N AT I O N A IN ANNAPOLIS IN ANNAPOLIS
Cheri Bruce-Phipps I S E XC I T E D TO J O I N
T T R S OT H E B Y ’S I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E A LT Y IN ANNAPOLIS
IN TOWN LIVING AT ITS BEST! This beautifully renovated, 2 bedroom, Craftsman style floor plan, large master suite, Georgia heart pine flooring cheribrucephipps.ttrsir.com Dacor & SubZero appliances. Large detached garage/wor m 443 994 2164 | cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com Whether you prefer walking to town or watching the many Cheri Bruce-Phipps this home offers it all! Offered at $489,900 m +1 443 994 2164 cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com Cheri Bruce-Phipps m +1 443 994Cheri 2164Bruce-Phipps cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com cheribrucephipps.com m +1 443 994 2164 cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com cheribrucephipps.com cheribrucephipps.com Annapolis Brokerage Annapolis Brokerage 209 Main Street, Annapolis, MD Annapolis Brokerage 209 Main Street, MD 17 Goldsborough Street +1 410 280 5600 Annapolis, | ttrsir.com 209 Main Street, Annapolis, MD Easton, MD 21601 +1 410 280 5600 | ttrsir.com O: +1 410-673-3344 410 280 5600 | ttrsir.com 30
Cheri Cheri Bruce-Phipps Cheri Bruce-Ph Bruce-Ph
T T R S O T H E B Y ’ S I N T E R N AT I O N I S E XC I T E D TOT JTO RI N S O T H E B Y ’ S I N T E R N AT I O N IN ANNAPOLIS T T R S OT H E B Y ’S I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E A LT I NYA N N A P O L I S IN ANNAPOLIS
Beautiful Coastal Home in the Water Front Community of Tilghman On Chesapeake. IN TOWN LIVING AT3ITS BEST Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Wrap Around 1st and 2nd floor decks with Seasonal Bay Views from This beautifully renovated, 2 bedroom, Craftsman st the 2nd Floor. This home includes such features as an Upstairs Kitchenette, New 2019 Cheri Bruce-Phipps HVAC for 2nd floor, Tankless Hot Water Heater, ADT Alarm System with Audible entry floor plan, large master suite, Georgia heart m +1Outside 443 994 2164hook-up with hot and cold waterpine floor for each door, Covered Grilling Porch, Shower and an Irrigation System. Community boasts Club House, Large Waterfront Pool, garage/w Dacora&Waterfront SubZero appliances. detached cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com Marina and Waterfront Picnic Area. Lot to the left of the house cannot be built on and is being made into a Native Plant Garden Area. Great Home in a Beautiful Whether you prefer walking to town Waterfront or watching the ma cheribrucephipps.com Community for all your entertaining needs and ready to move in. this home offers it all! Offered at $489,900 Offered at $475,000
Cheri Bruce-Phipps Cheri m +1 443 994 2164Bruce-Phipps cbrucephipps@ttrsir.c Annapolis Brokerage m +1 443 994 2164 cbrucephipps@ttrsir.c cheribrucephipps.com 209 Main Street, Annapolis, MD cheribrucephipps.com +1 410 280 5600cheribrucephipps.ttrsir.com | ttrsir.com Annapolis Brokerage m 443Annapolis 994 2164 Brokerage 209 Main Street, Annapolis, MD cbrucephipps@ttrsir.com 209 Main Street, MD 17 Goldsborough St. +1 410 280 5600 Annapolis, | ttrsir.com Easton, MD 21601 +1 410 280 5600 | ttrsir.com O: 410-673-3344
31
Leading with Love
often requested to sing the National Anthem, one of his favorite songs to perform. “When I’m singing the anthem, I’m singing for the America that Dr. King dreamed of. I have enough faith in God that eventually love will conquer all, and all of us will live the American dream.” He also says he has no problem having an athlete kneeling. “Because I’m sometimes profiled, too, when off-duty.” He says performing “Jesus I Believe” was a salve for his soul, with the words ringing true as he thought about George Floyd and the COVID pandemic. “My mother helped me understand to always lead with love because that’s the only thing that is going to help us get out of any of this. “What God said to Abraham was that he was going to be the father of many nations, of many generations
the Denton police force, who also served as chief from 1977 to 1987. “Chief Scofield was also a choir member, and as I went across town headed to church, I’d see him in his uniform directing cars, and I thought, wait a minute, I can do this.” Coleman began singing at 8 years old in Union Bethel AME Church’s choir in Denton. He has been singing at Christ Church for the last six years and says the experience gives him the opportunity to be a part of an incredible music ministry. “We have numerous vocalists, violinists, a cellist, bass player, f lutist,” says Coleman. “I know why God has called me there. We’re all from a plethora of backgrounds. Our faces don’t all look the same.” Coleman says he is always singing to and for God, and that he is
32
33
Leading with Love
St. Johns in Cornerville, Old Trinity, St. Andrews in Hurlock and Christ Church in Cambridge. Together they are involved as puppy raisers with Guiding Eyes for the Blind and are blessed with grown children Justin (31), Joy (23) and Brandon (19). Coleman hopes his next life’s achievements include continuing to make a deep, positive impact on children’s lives. “I’ll wait for what God is calling me to do next.” *** Author’s Note: Our interview for this story took place on a Saturday, between John taking his son to work… and picking up groceries
of people,” said Coleman. “I’m doing my best to have a lasting, positive impact on children’s lives. And the same with every officer. A big piece of who I am is leading with love. These kids and officers then take a piece of that and carry it forward with them.” Coleman’s wife, Barbara, is also leading with love as a newly ordained deacon at Christ Church, serving as the “Deacon of Dorchester” and in her home church following two and a half years of study with Fr. Bill. The Rev. Coleman is serving at Dorchester County’s Episcopal churches, including
John Coleman in last year’s Avalon Foundation’s presentation of Elf the Musical. 34
35
Leading with Love at Easton’s Amish Market to take to his mother and sister, before studying new D.A.R.E. protocols for the rest of the afternoon. He is a very busy man! Tracey Johns is a storyteller, engaging local, regional and national audiences through her words and photography. She has worked in communications, marketing and business management for more than 30 years, including non-profit leadership. Tracey’s work is focused on public and constituent relations, along with communication strategies, positioning and brand development and project management.
Life really is better on the Eastern Shore! For ques�ons about real estate in Easton,St. Michaels, Oxford, or points in between, call me at 410-924-2432
A better life could be waiting!
101 N. West Street, Easton, MD 21601 Cell: 410-924-2432 Office: 410-822-2001 joanwetmore@msn.com 36
Joan Wetmore
37
“Wedge Issue”
quartersawn white oak trestle table
McMartin&Beggins FURNITURE MAKERS Custom Design, Benchmade Furniture & Expert Restoration Visit our showroom in Wittman or at www.McMartinBeggins.com 410.745.5715 38
39
Helping Buyers and Sellers Reach Their Dreams Since 1989
Wishing Everyone a Healthy and Safe Holiday Season!
WATERFRONT NEAR ST. MICHAELS - Peaceful serenity can be found here just minutes from St. Michaels on Harris Creek. Custom built, one owner home just under 5,000 sq. ft. with 1st floor primary suite overlooking the water. Attention to detail and meticulously maintained you will be amazed at the craftsmanship. An elevator assures that all who live or visit can access every level of this fine home. $1,475,000
NEW LISTING - St. Michaels Back Creek Landing Community - Spectacular 4 bedroom home with 1st floor primary ensuite you will fall in love with. Well appointed kitchen with stainless appliances and plenty of storage. 3 add’l generous size bedrooms, full bath and huge rec room on the 2nd floor. This home is a must see if your family is in need of space for everyone to enjoy and live in comfortably. NO TOWN TAXES. $575,000
101 N. West Street, Easton, MD 21601 Cell: 410-310-8606 Office: 410-822-2001 tljordan520@gmail.com 40
Traci Jordan Associate Broker, GRI
Rock Steady Boxing for YMCA Parkinson’s Champs by Bonna L. Nelson
end-of-year non-profit focus. Information on how you can pay it forward and donate to the Y’s RSB program is included at the end of the article. I learned about the RSB program during my thrice-weekly Floor, Core and More class at the Y. I was finishing up physical therapy for a second knee replacement, getting stronger and ready to give back in some way. Wendy Pa lmer ~my f r iend, our instructor and the associate executive director of Y @ Washington ~ mentioned that the Y was recruiting volunteers to assist with the RS program. I immediately signed up for the next training session.
Twice a week, for an hour-long session, the YMCA (Y) Rock Steady Boxing (RSB) champions put on their boxing gloves and their smiles, pound on heavy punching bags and punching balls and pull on pulleys to the beat of rock music. The camaraderie between the boxers is contagious. The YMCA of the Chesapeake’s group of 26 boxers with Parkinson’s Disease (PD)are a part of the RSB program that includes 43,500 other Parkinson’s boxers in training in 871 other affiliate programs worldwide. The Y’s RSB program is the Tidewater Times publishers’ and this writer’s selection for our annual
41
42
TIDE TABLE
OXFORD, MD 1. Tues. 2. Wed. 3. Thurs. 4. Fri. 5. Sat. 6. Sun. 7. Mon. 8. Tues. 9. Wed. 10. Thurs. 11. Fri. 12. Sat. 13. Sun. 14. Mon. 15. Tues. 16. Wed. 17. Thurs. 18. Fri. 19. Sat. 20. Sun. 21. Mon. 22. Tues. 23. Wed. 24. Thurs. 25. Fri. 26. Sat. 27. Sun. 28. Mon. 29. Tues. 30. Wed. 31. Thurs.
DECEMBER 2020
HIGH PM AM
3:44 4:26 5:10 5:56 6:46 7:40 8:38 9:40 10:43 11:45 12:39 1:33 2:27 3:20 4:13 5:06 6:00 6:55 7:52 8:52 9:55 10:57 11:57 12:18 1:04 1:51 2:37 3:21 4:06
4:28 5:03 5:43 6:26 7:14 8:05 8:59 9:54 10:50 11:45 12:44 1:41 2:35 3:27 4:18 5:09 5:59 6:50 7:39 8:28 9:16 10:02 10:47 11:32 12:49 1:36 2:16 2:53 3:29 4:05 4:44
AM
LOW PM
9:44 11:59 10:21 12:41 11:01am 1:23 11:46am 2:07 12:38 2:51 1:38 3:35 2:48 4:19 4:06 5:02 5:26 5:44 6:43 6:28 7:54 7:11 8:59 7:57 9:59 8:44 10:55 9:32 11:47 10:23 12:38 11:16am 1:27 12:11 2:14 1:09 3:00 2:10 3:43 3:16 4:24 4:27 5:01 5:38 5:37 6:46 6:12 7:47 6:47 8:42 7:24 9:30 8:02 10:14 8:42 10:55 9:23 11:34 10:06
Happy
Holidays
From all of us at Campbell’s Despite COVID 2020 was a great boating year, and we look forward to working with each of you in 2021!
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
410.226.5592 campbellsboatyards.com
3 month tides at www.tidewatertimes.com 43
Rock Steady Boxing
order. Lyn explained that with PD, dopamine, a chemical in the brain that ser ves as a neurotransmitter, is dying. The nervous system uses dopamine, sometimes called a chemical messenger, to send messages between nerve cells. Dopamine contributes to how we feel pleasure and helps us think and plan. Lyn compared dopamine loss to a train not leaving the station: the body is not getting the message to move. Next, Lyn described the symptoms of PD. Most of us remember the actor Michael J. Fox revealing that he has PD and how his limbs shake uncontrollably without medication. PD is a degenerative movement disease that effects large and fine motor skills, speech, and sensory function. Other motor and non-motor symptoms that Lyn described include: loss of smell, loss of movement and balance, rigidity, decreased voice volume, tremors, dry eye (involving loss of blinking), difficulty swallowing, drooling, loss of facial expressions, frozen face, hygiene issues, poor posture, bent head, stiff and hanging arms (not swinging), tightening hips and heels that result in slow and shuffling steps (small gait), bent knees, depression and anxiety, behavioral and sleep issues, memor y problems, slow thinking, a slow response to laugh or smile, gastrointestinal and urinary issues, low blood pressure, excessive sweating, low heart rate and more. Lyn explained that many of the brain cells in people with PD con-
Lyn Sutton, an enthusiastic RSBcertified coach, conducted our first training session just prior to an RSB class. Lyn shared her knowledge of Parkinson’s ~ learned not just from her training but from caring for her father, who has the disease. Lyn discovered RSB to help her father fight PD and then went on to become an accredited instructor and trainer to share her knowledge and help other folks with PD. She shared that her father’s doctor said his PD diagnosis is the bad news. The good news is that medicines and exercise (like RSB) both help to improve the disease’s negative impact on the body. We sat in a semi-circle just as the RSB groups begin their sessions. First, a review of the disease was in 44
Easton Map and History The County Seat of Talbot Count y. Established around early religious settlements and a court of law, Histor ic Dow ntow n Easton is today a centerpiece of fine specialt y shops, business and cultural activ ities, unique restaurants, and architectural fascination. Treel i ne d s t r e e t s a r e graced with various per iod str uctures and remarkable home s , c a r e f u l l y preser ved or re stored. Because of its histor ic a l significance, historic Easton has earned distinction as the “C olon ia l C apitol of the Eastern Shore” and was honored as number eight in the book “The 100 Best Small Towns in America.” With a population of over 16,500, Easton offers the best of many worlds including access to large metropolitan areas like Baltimore, Annapolis, Washington, and Wilmington. For a walking tour and more history visit https:// tidewatertimes.com/travel-tourism/easton-maryland/. © John Norton
45
46
Rock Steady Boxing
of the country to those most involved in metal processing and agriculture. They state that the chemicals used in agricultural fields are the strongest potential environmental risk factors for PD identified thus far. Prolonged exposures to herbicides and insecticides used in farming or to metals such as copper, manganese and lead are more likely contributors to PD than genetics. Lyn said that our job as coaches is to stay upbeat and encouraging. We need to stand and sit straight to demonstrate goals for the boxers. We need to talk loud, big and loud, so that everyone can hear us. We need to encourage socialization during RSB classes since PD boxers tend to pull away socially. RSB classes are a way to regain social skills. What is RSB? According to the RSB website, it is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that gives people with PD hope by improving their quality of life through a non-contact boxingbased fitness curriculum adapted
tain Lewy bodies, unusual clumps of the protein alpha-synuclein. The medical community is still trying to understand the relationship between Lewy bodies and their impact on PD. Why do people get PD? Lyn said t hat t he c ause is idiopat hic, or unknown. PD has been linked to genetics, environmental exposure to metal toxins or pesticides, falls and a combination of these factors. Though much research is underway, there are still no definitive answers. Who gets PD? PD occurs most commonly in adults over the age of 50. Men have a higher risk of developing the disease than women. According to the American Parkinson’s Disease Association, PD seems to affect Caucasians and Hispanics more than African Americans or Asians. A recent PD study, the largest ever, found that the disease is more common in the Midwest and the Northeast. The authors relate those areas
47
Rock Steady Boxing
body of medical research has proven the merits of RSB which the two friends established to help others
from boxing drills. Their mission is to empower people with PD to fight back. Boxing is considered one of the most intense exercises. RSB estimates that there are more than 1 million people in the United States diagnosed with PD (more than 10 million worldwide), and more than 60,000 are diagnosed each year. Ly n sa id t hat in 2006, Sc ot t Newman, a public defender, was diagnosed with early onset PD at age 40 in Indianapolis, IN. His friend Vince Perez, a Golden Gloves Boxer, thought he could help his friend fight PD by designing a boxing program that attacks PD at its vulnerable neurological sites. An increasing
48
folks. The Y welcomed the chance to expand programming for those with chronic diseases. There are now 26 active boxers taking RSB classes at the Y (before COVID-19 hit). The Y provides the RSB program free of charge to anyone in the community. Lyn Sutton, Susan Covey and Wendy Palmer are the RSB class instructors. Prospective boxers are evaluated to determine class placement based on PD progression. Those with levels PD-1 and PD-2 present milder cases of the disease and are placed in one class. Those with levels PD-3 and PD-4 comprise a second class. These boxers have more advanced cases and are most likely to use walkers and wheelchairs. Medical approval
with PD. Professional boxers, trainers, coaches, physical therapists and occupational therapists were added to support the life-changing, now international program that helps members move better and feel better. It is now one of the most popular exercise programs available for PD. The RSB program was introduced to the YMCA of the Chesapeake just two years ago. The program began w ith just four boxers in 2018 at the Y on Washington Street. Jack Harrold, one of the original four, had been taking RSB at a facility in Grasonville where Lyn taught. He lives in Easton and asked the local Y to sponsor the program at one of the local Ys to reduce his drive and offer the RSB program to more local PD
49
Rock Steady Boxing
and hit the heavy punching bags, punch the speed ball and box with a partner. They also lift weights and participate in table activities, such as tying exercises. It is an amazing sight to see these motivated, courageous, inspirational boxers fighting PD with every punch. As with most everything else in 2020, the Y RSB classes had to be conducted remotely starting last spring. Now on Zoom, sessions for the two levels of programming are still conducted twice a week for an hour. Wendy chuckled when she told me that the boxers are also given homework, exercises for 30 minutes a day to be done between classes, and also that the boxers call her “No Break Wendy” because, well, Wendy is always encouraging and always saying, “Come on, you can do just a few more reps!” The RSB goal is to get the heart
is required for boxers to participate in the program. What is the RSB class like? Class begins with boxers exchanging greetings and sitting in a semicircle in the Y @ Washington gym. Most participants are accompanied by a spouse or health aide who helps them get ready for class. Y boxers range in age from 60s to 90s. They begin as most typical exercise classes begin: with warm-up activities, raising arms, rocking feet, lifting legs, etc. Participants work on agility, speed, muscular endurance, accuracy, hand-eye coordination, footwork and overall strength to extend their capability for activities of daily living. Next, they move to stations set up around the gym with spouses, aides, instructors and volunteers to help. Boxers don boxing gloves
50
51
Rock Steady Boxing
the spirits of the boxers who work hard to combat the disease. Wendy sh a r e d t h at she , Ly n and Susan find working with the boxers to be the highlight of their week. When the boxers tell them that their movement is better, that they feel better and that they have formed new friendships with their fellow boxers and instructors, the Y instructors know they are on the right track with RSB. Jack Harrold, the RSB boxer who encouraged the local Y to offer RSB, also facilitates a monthly support group meeting of the Mar yland Association of Parkinson’s Support (MAPS), Inc. at the Y on Thursdays at 11 a.m. MAPS provides programs and services that encourage healthy lifestyles for all those affected by Parkinsonian disorders. Now on Zoom as well, the MAPS meetings include guest speakers on PD-related topics, such as nutrition experts from Johns Hopkins. Members also exchange information and socialize. If you are affected by Parkinson’s Disease and would like to learn more about the RSB program and MAPS, contact Wendy Palmer at t he Y @ Washing ton at 1180 S. Wa sh i ng ton S t . E a s ton, phone 410-822-1515, or email wpalmer@ ymcachesapeake.org. Wendy can answer questions about the YMCA programs and RSB and assist you with the RSB intake process. The Y RSB program welcomes new boxers to its ongoing classes.
rate up, so homework i nclude s walking fast or lifting weights for a minute and then resting for a minute. The idea is to increase mobility to fight the effects of the disease. Socialization, another important part of the program, occurs during in-person and Zoom classes. Wendy said it is uplifting for the participants to be with others fighting the same disease. They encourage each other and try to lead more normal, active lives. RSB classes give participants hope. The instructors have seen improvements in the boxers’ strength, endurance and abilities. They see that RSB slows the progression of PD symptoms and boosts
· 1887 Queen Anne Victorian Bed & Breakfast · 6 En-Suite Uniquely Designed Guest Rooms · Awards Winning 3-Course Gourmet Breakfast · Special Event Space for up to 150 people · LGBTQ Friendly - We Welcome Everyone! · Dog Friendly · On-Site Private Parking
14 N Aurora St, Easton, MD 21601 410-822-0605
HummingbirdInnEaston.com 52
53
Rock Steady Boxing
tions to our favorite charities, please remember the YMCA and all that it does for the community. To make a contribution to the YMCA of the Chesapeake for the RSB program, donate online at www.ymcachesapeake.org and designate your allocation to the RSB program. Or, make a gift by mail by sending a check to YMCA of the Chesapeake, 111-1 East Dover Rd., Easton, MD 21601. In the check’s memo section, please designate your gift allocation to the Rock Steady Boxing program.
The YMCA of the Chesapeake has a wonderful mission to foster opportunities for individuals, families and communit y that strengthen healthy spirit, mind and body for all. In Talbot County since 1954, the Y turns no one away for an inability to pay. The Y also provides outreach programs and scholarships for all of its programs. RSB is one of these programs. It is free to anyone in Talbot and surrounding counties. The Y is a nonprofit organization, so it depends on memberships and donations to provide scholarships and free programs. During this holiday season when we look to make end-of-year dona-
Bonna L. Nelson is a Bay-area writer, columnist, photographer and world traveler. She resides in Easton with her husband, John.
H
At O H Le O Eve ast 2 H ryt 0% O hin OF g! F
The holidays are here! T’is the Season for Family and Friends Come to Calico for help with your décor, or a gift for a friend. “Wishing YOU a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Safe Holiday Season” Plenty of Off-Street Parking
410-310-5070 125 Kemp Lane, Easton 54
Private Beach House Paradise on Casey Key
On Florida’s Suncoast midway between Sarasota and Venice
Stylishly decorated, this classy home on the Gulf of Mexico offers amenities that guarantee a memorable vacation. It has two master ensuites - one upstairs and the other downstairs - a small third bedroom ensuite, large living room, wet bar, library with books and puzzles, fireplace, 4 tv’s, wi-fi/internet/all-access Xfinity cable, office (printers/scanner/copier) and more. A few steps from the private beach is a 425 sq.ft. cabana constructed of exotic Brazilian teak. Outdoor shower, garage with beach chairs, fishing rods, water accoutrements and gas grill. Semi-weekly general housekeeping. No Smoking, Pets Considered, Unsuited for Small Children 3 Months@$10,500/month; 2 Months@$11,250/month; 1 Month@$12,000 per month; 3 Weeks@$9500; 2 Weeks@$6500. Tax not included. Terms exceeding six months negotiable and not subject to the 12% tax.
Contact: Katie Elliott – 941.993.7240; 3917@vrbous.com Full Photo Gallery at https://vrbous.com/property-3917 55
56
Healthy Recipes for the Season The cold winter months and holiday celebrations are bound to bring plenty of casseroles and treats. We hope these tips will help you maintain healthy habits and a healthy weight throughout the holiday season. Cope with the Demands of the Season: Set realistic expectations and goals.
Delegate responsibility; ask others for help. Make time for yourself. Maintain Exercise During the Holidays: If pushed for time, exercise at least 15 minutes. Get the entire family involved and take a walk together. Remember that exercise is an ex-
57
Tidewater Kitchen
1 cup fat-free half-and-half 1 6-ounce can no-salt-added tomato paste 1/2 t. dried basil 1/2 t. ground black pepper 1/2 t. ground sage 1 T. cornstarch
cellent way to reduce stress. Strive for Healthy Eating During the Holidays: Don’t give up your favorite holiday foods. Savor the meal in smaller portions. Don’t skip meals. You’ll be less likely to overeat. Drink water throughout the day. Hunger can often be mistaken for dehydration.
Combine all ingredients except for the cornstarch in a large pot and stir to mix thoroughly. Heat to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes. Remove ½ cup of soup; place in a small bowl. Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch. With a fork, whisk mixture until smooth. Add to pot; simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
TOMATO-BASIL SOUP Makes 10 servings 1 46-ounce can no-salt-added tomato juice 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
TEXAS CAVIAR Makes 16 servings
It’sto askOK for help. We are here for you.
• • • •
410.822.1018
Individual, Family & Couples Therapy Child & Adult Psychiatry Victim Advocacy 24-HR Hotlines
forallseasonsinc.org 58
59
Tidewater Kitchen 11-ounce can yellow corn, rinsed and drained 15.5-ounce can low-sodium kidney beans, rinsed and drained 15.5-ounce can low-sodium blackeyed peas, rinsed and drained 15.5-ounce can low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained 1 large tomato, diced 1 red onion, finely chopped 1 green pepper, finely chopped 16 ounces fat-free Italian salad dressing Drain and rinse all canned products. Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Cover and refrigerate. Serve with whole grain
chips such as Snyder’s whole grain tortilla chips or your favorite.
60
www.craiglinthicum.com
The “FIVE PONDS FARM” A FABULOUS GATED WATERFRONT ESTATE on Maryland’s Eastern Shore just minutes outside of Historic Easton sits on 311+/- acres with tree lined drive with a half-mile of waterfront on the CHOPTANK RIVER. This property features a stunning custom 5 BR, 5 full, 2 half BA manor house, 2 BR, 2 BA guest cottage, 3 BR, 2 BA caretaker home, equipment sheds, workshop, 5 ponds, 6 waterfowl impoundments, wells, deep water dock w/lifts, wildlife habitat, waterfowl blinds and deer stands. Property also includes sweeping lawns, gardens, meadows, farmland, wetlands, and wooded acreage. Make an appointment today to see this incredible home and property. PRICE IMPROVEMENT: $4,900,000 6077bostoncliffrd.com
Benson & Mangold Real Estate craig.linthicum@gmail.com www.CraigLinthicum.com 61
410.726.6581 410.228.0800 301 Crusader Road, Ste 2, Cambridge, MD 21613
Tidewater Kitchen
For the casserole: 2 cups fresh green beans, ends trimmed 1 T. olive oil 1 t. pepper 1 small onion, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, minced 12 button mushrooms, thinly sliced 2 T. all-purpose flour 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock 1/2 to 3/4 cup skim milk 1 slice turkey bacon
GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE Makes 6 servings For the topping: 1/2 onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup all-purpose f lour 2 T. whole wheat panko breadcrumbs 1 t. black pepper
Preheat oven to 475°. Toss onion, flour, breadcrumbs and pepper in a large bowl until the onions are evenly coated. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the onions evenly on the sheet pan and bake for 7 minutes
A Taste of Italy
218 N. Washington St. Easton (410) 820-8281 www.piazzaitalianmarket.com
19 Goldsborough St. ¡ 443.746.3095 www.curlicuethestore.com 62
heat to medium-low and add ½ cup milk. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 7 minutes. If the mixture becomes too thick, add more milk . Remove from heat and stir in the green beans until evenly coated. Place green bean mixture into a 2-cup oven-safe dish. Cook the turkey bacon in the microwave until crispy, about 2 minutes, and then crumble. Top the casserole with the turkey bacon and the oven-baked onions. Place the casserole in the 475° oven for 10 minutes, or until the green beans are bubbly. Remove and serve immediately.
or until onions are golden brown. Set aside. Bring a medium-sized pot of water to a boil. Blanch the green beans in the boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain the beans, and immediately plunge the beans into ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over mediumhigh heat. Sauté the onion in the oil for 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms, salt and pepper and cook until most of the water evaporates, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for 3 more minutes. Evenly sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir until the flour is combined. Add chicken stock and cook for about 2 minutes. Reduce the
KALE SALAD Makes 6 servings 1 T. fresh lemon juice
Easton, MD: 410-819-8900 Annapolis MD: 410-267-7110 Mechanicsville, MD: 301-274-2570 Baltimore, MD: 410-789-8000 Chantily, VA: 703-263-2300 Gaithersburg, MD: 240-650-6000 Takoma Park, MD: 301-608-2600 York, PA: 717-845-6500
adu.com 63
Tidewater Kitchen
nels for approximately 5 minutes or until brown, stirring frequently. Add kernels, onions and cheese to greens; toss. BUTTERNUT SQUASH and SWEET POTATO GRATIN Makes 8 servings 2 T. Smart Balance Spread 1/4 cup shallots 2 garlic cloves 5 T. all-purpose f lour 1 t. fresh thyme, chopped 1 cup 1% milk 1 cup fat-free half-and-half 3/4 cup reduced-fat grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 t. salt substitute 1/2 t. black pepper 1/8 t. cayenne pepper 1/2 pound potatoes, peeled and cut in 1/8-inch slices 3/4 pound butternut squash, peeled and cut in 1/8-inch slices 1/3 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 t. honey Freshly ground black pepper Kosher salt to taste 4 cups torn kale leaves, stems removed 2 cups torn Swiss chard leaves 4 t. unsalted pumpkin seed kernels 1/4 cup sliced green onions (about 2) 1 ounce shaved pecorino Romano cheese
Preheat oven to 375°. Melt Smart Balance in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Add shallots and garlic; cook 2 minutes, stirring
In a large bowl, combine first 5 ingredients, stirring to incorporate. Add kale and chard; toss. Let stand 10 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook ker64
Come Home To Pemberton Appliance Contemporary ♌ Traditional And Everything In Between
Gas Fireplaces Custom Fire Pits
Custom Outdoor Kitchens Tankless Services
Gas Piping Builder Friendly Propane and Natural Gas CertiďŹ ed
866-525-LOGS www.gas-guy.com 65
Mike Schneider
Owner/Outside Sales
Tidewater Kitchen
1 t. ground cinnamon 1/4 t. salt 1-1/2 cups chopped apples 1/4 cup egg substitute 1/4 cup plus 2 T. Stevia sugar blend 1/4 cup chopped pecans 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce For the topping: 1 T. all-purpose f lour 1 T. whole wheat f lour 1 T. Smart Balance margarine 1/4 cup chopped pecans 1/2 t. ground cinnamon 2 T. Stevia brown sugar blend
constantly. Lightly spoon ¼ cup of f lour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Add to pan; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly with a whisk. Stir in thyme. Gradually add in milk and half-and-half, stirring constantly with whisk; cover and cook over medium heat until slightly thick (about 3 minutes), stirring constantly. Stir in Parmesan cheese; cook 3 minutes or until cheese melts. Stir in salt substitute and peppers. Remove from heat. Cook potato in boiling water for 4 minutes or until almost tender; remove with slotted spoon. Cook sweet potato in boiling water for 4 minutes or until almost tender; remove with slotted spoon. Cook butternut squash in boiling water for 4 minutes or until almost tender; drain. Sprinkle vegetables evenly with remaining 1 tablespoon f lour. Arrange potatoes and squash in alternating layers in 11” x 7” baking dish coated with non-stick cooking spray; spoon sauce over potato mixture. Bake for 40 minutes. Preheat broiler. Broil for 3 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand 10 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°. Lightly coat an 8-inch baking pan with cooking spray; set aside. In a medium bowl, combine 2/3 cup f lour, 1/2 cup whole wheat f lour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped apple and egg substitute; stir in the Stevia sugar blend, the 1/4 cup nuts and the applesauce. Add the f lour mixture and stir JUST until combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan. For the topping, stir together the Stevia brown sugar, the remain-
APPLE COFFEE CAKE Makes 16 servings For the cake: 2/3 cup all-purpose f lour 1/2 cup whole wheat f lour 1 t. baking soda 66
EVER WONDER why the new America's Cup boats are on foils? It all goes back to the 2010 America's Cup, the first time in Cup history two multihulls met on the starting line. Learning to Fly is a missing and dramatic piece of Cup history, with designers, builders, and sailors venturing into unknown, dangerous waters. Available at Amazon.com. 67
Tidewater Kitchen
r Fo lity l i l Ca ilab a Av
ing f lours and cinnamon. Cut in margarine until crumbly; stir in remaining nuts. Sprinkle topping over batter in pan. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean; cool in pan for 10 minutes. Serve warm. Did you know? To reduce fat content, substitute applesauce for half the amount of fat in original recipe. Or, use all applesauce to produce a moist, low-calorie product. HASH BROWN CASSEROLE Makes 10 servings Nonstick cooking spray, for coating baking dish 12 ounces fat-free Greek yogurt 1 cup low-fat (1% or skim) milk 1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream 3 T. all-purpose f lour 2 pounds frozen shredded hash browns, thawed 1 16-ounce package turkey sausage 1-1/2 cups shredded 2% extra sharp cheddar cheese
68
69
Tidewater Kitchen
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until soft and lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring often, until the mushrooms are wilted and the onions begin to brown, about 10 minutes more. If the pan gets too hot, add a splash or two of water as needed. Add the turkey sausage and continue to cook until the sausage appears golden brown. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir the vegetables into the hash brown mixture to combine. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Sprinkle with the remaining half cup cheese and
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 T. unsalted butter 2 large yellow onions, chopped 8 ounces sliced cremini (baby bella) mushrooms 2 large cloves garlic, minced 2 T. whole wheat panko breadcrumbs 2 T. fresh parsley, for garnish Preheat the oven to 375°. Coat a 9” by 13” baking dish with cooking spray. Whisk together the yogurt, milk, sour cream and f lour in a large bowl. Stir in the hash browns, 1 cup of the cheese, 2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Set aside.
Give the Gift of Health to Yourself or a Loved One! Home delivery and set-up available.
Nautilus Recumbent r616
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
Schwinn Airdyne A6
723 Goldsborough St. · Easton · 410-822-RIDE(7433) 70
71
Tidewater Kitchen the breadcrumbs. Bake until a deep golden brown, about 45 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. Did you know? Using 2% or light cheese when cooking will reduce saturated fat content but allow the product to remain creamy. HOLIDAY COOKIES Makes 48 cookies 2-1/4 cups whole wheat pastry f lour 1 t. baking soda 1/4 t. salt 1/2 cup packed stevia brown sugar blend 3/4 cup granulated sugar
WEAVER, MAVITY, SHORT ASSOCIATES, LLC Since 1982
A full range of tax and accounting services: · Individual and Business · Estates and Trusts · Non-Profits Call us for a consultation today! 117 Bay Street, Suite F, Easton, MD • 410-820-8400 daley_weaver@verizon.net 72
browned. Cool on pans for 2 minutes. Remove from pans; cool completely on wire racks.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 t. vanilla extract 2 large egg whites 3/4 cup red & green M & Ms Cooking spray
Frosting: 1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup of powdered sugar 1 t. vanilla extract (gluten-free, if needed) 1-2 T. unsweetened almond milk
Preheat oven to 350°. Spoon f lour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Combine f lour, baking soda and salt, stirring with a whisk. Combine sugars and butter in a large bowl; beat with mixer at medium speed until well blended. Add vanilla and egg whites; beat 1 minute. Add f lour mixture and M&Ms; beat until blended. Drop dough by tablespoons 2 inches apart onto baking sheets coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes or until lightly
Place butter and sugar in bowl of a stand mixture, or use a hand mixture to beat butter and sugar in a bowl, on low speed, until combined. Increase speed to medium and mix for about three minutes, or until the frosting is smooth and airy. Add vanilla and milk of choice
EASTERN SHORE TITLE COMPANY
The Mid-Shore’s Leader in Real Estate Title Services “Why settle for less when you can settle with the best!”
Melissa Grimes-Guy Photography
114 North West Street | Easton, MD 21601 410.820.4426 | www.easternshoretitle.com 73
Tidewater Kitchen
blend for baking 1/3 cup packed Stevia brown sugar blend 1 cup egg substitute 1-1/2 t. vanilla extract 1 (2.6-ounce) bar dark chocolate, finely chopped
until desired consistency (mixing for about one minute). Frost as soon as possible. If it is a hot day or you have a hot house and find that the frosting is too soft, simply refrigerate until it is the right consistency. HOT CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE Makes 10 servings (serving size: 1 cake) 3/4 cup whole wheat pastry f lour 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa 5 t. instant espresso powder 1-1/2 t. baking powder 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/3 cup granulated Stevia sugar
74
minutes. Uncover and bake at 350° for 20 minutes or until cakes are puffy and slightly crusty on top. Sprinkle evenly with powdered sugar; serve immediately.
2 T. powdered sugar Lightly spoon f lour into dry measuring cups; level with a knife. Sift together f lour, cocoa, espresso powder, and baking powder. Place butter in large bowl; beat with mixer at medium speed 1 minute. Add granulated and brown sugars, beating until well blended (5 minutes). Add egg substitute and vanilla, beating until well blended. Fold f lour mixture into sugar mixture; fold in chocolate. Divide batter evenly among 10 (4 oz.) ramekins; arrange ramekins on a sheet tray. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or up to 2 days. Preheat oven to 350°. Let ramekins stand at room temperature 10
Did you know? You can use 2 egg whites or 1/4 cup egg substitute instead of one whole egg. A longtime resident of Oxford, Pamela Meredith, formerly Denver’s NBC Channel 9 Children’s Chef, now teaches both adult and children’s cooking classes on the south shore of Massachusetts. For more of Pam’s recipes, visit the Story Archive tab at tidewatertimes.com.
Pamela P. Gardner, AIA, LLC
311 N. Aurora St., Easton · 410-820-7973 · pam@ppgaia.com www.pamelagardneraia.com 75
O PE N FOR
HOMETOWN HOLIDAY MEMORIES
From sparkling holiday lights to festive Main Streets, celebrate the season in Caroline County! Go to VisitCaroline.org/Holidays2020 for the latest on upcoming events, one-of-a-kind holiday experiences, and gift ideas from our shops, galleries and restaurants! We’re open for you, if you’re
VisitCaroline.org/Holidays2020 76
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. 77
Sparks Mill Farm
161.85 acres with about 100 tillable, on east and west sides of MD Route 213 between Centreville and Church Hill; either side may be purchased separately, 4 platted perk sites; CRP income for 3 years, then possible timbering; Communications Tower lease $700.40/ month; In the Queen Anne’s County “Opportunity Zone”; No Easements, Chesapeake Bay Scenic Byway(Potential sale of easement); Hunting: Goose, Deer, Turkey, wood ducks; 1000+/feet along both sides of Granny Findley Branch - surrounded by woodland filled with deer. $1,505,206 MLS #MDQA145176
TIDEWATER PROPERTIES REAL ESTATE
410.827.8877 Barbara Whaley Ben McNeil Elaine McNeil Fitzhugh Turner 443.262.1310 410.310.7707 410.490.8001 410.490.7163 121 Clay Drive, Queenstown, MD · bwhaley1936/@gmail.com 78
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. 79
KDB LANDSCAPES designed • built • managed M.H.I.C. #91521
Easton, MD · 410-822-1683 www.kdblandscaping.com 80
TIDEWATER GARDENING
by K. Marc Teffeau, Ph.D.
Holiday Gift Plants With winter arriving and the holiday season upon us, gardening thoughts turn indoors to houseplants and decorating. This year, I saw poinsettia plants for sale at the big box stores on the first of November! That is really pushing the season, in my humble opinion. Many gardeners purchase poinsettias for the holiday season, and I have written about these plants in past columns. The poinsettia is the number-one flowering potted plant sold in the USA. But numerous other plants can be considered great “holiday plants,” either for decorating or to give as gifts. Many are available at florist shops, garden centers, supermarkets and greenhouses for the Christmas season. A kind of odd-looking succulent plant that has become popular over the years is the Kalanchoe. Usually sold as a holiday plant, the Kalanchoe is a tough plant that can endure in our homes during the winter months. The plant is originally from Africa and Madagascar. If you
compare the Kalanchoe leaves to the common jade plant, you will notice a resemblance. They both have thick, firm, f leshy leaves. However, the Kalanchoe’s are more f lattened and tightly packed than the jade plant’s. The Kalanchoe likes it hot and dry. If you need a plant that can take being in a hot room (like where the wood stove is located) or drafts from the nearby radiator or heat vent, this plant will do well. You can even forget to water it sometimes ~ though f low81
Tidewater Gardening
As with some of your other houseplants, you can set this plant outside once spring arrives. Place it in a lightly shaded area, and it will continue to grow. Bring it back inside in early fall. When choosing your Kalanchoe at the retail outlet, look for a minimum of two to three f lower clusters on a four-inch plant and four or five on a six-inch plant. Make sure that the plant has lots of color and few or no dead f lowers. Kalanchoes come in many different shades of yellow, orange, red, pink and white. Colorful fruiting plants are also popular for the holidays. Jerusalem cherry plants, also known as the Christmas cherry, natal or win-
ering will be reduced if you do. This plant prefers direct sun and does well in rooms where there is a bright indoor light level. As with other succulents, avoid overwatering Kalanchoe. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
Rt. 50 at Rt. 565, 2 mi. South of Easton
410-822-8866 www.riodelmarent.com
SALES - PARTS - SERVICE
LOOK FOR US IN OUR NEW LOCATION!
T he for mer Salisbur y Pewter building
82
finan 0%
cing
Licensed & Insured
83
Tidewater Gardening
As a houseplant, Jerusalem cherry requires bright light or full sun to thrive. Lack of humidity causes the plant to lose its leaves, blooms or fruit. Keep the plant in a room with temperatures below 70 degrees, as higher temperatures may cause leaf, flower or fruit drop. A caution about Jerusalem cherries: like other Nightshade family members (Solanaceae), Jerusalem cherry is native to Ecuador and Peru. Tomato, pepper, potato, eggplant and tobacco are other Nightshades. All parts of the plant contain the chemical Solanocapsine, which is toxic and will cause stomach distress. I do not recommend having the plant in your house if there are small children or dogs or cats around. You may plant the Jerusalem cherry outside in a part-sun location. If you wish to bring it back in for the holidays, do so before the first frost. If the plant is still in f lower when you bring it inside, be sure to tap or shake it to ensure pollination and later fruit formation. Keep the soil moist while the plant is actively growing, but do not overwater it. Ornamental pepper plants are often found in stores during the holiday season. Interestingly, the popularity of this plant really started at the turn of the 20th century, long before the poinsettia became popular as an indoor holiday plant. Ornamental pepper plants produce
ter cherry, can be a nice Christmas gift or used to brighten up a room. This bushy evergreen shrub produces white f lowers in the summer that give rise to small, round, reddish-orange fruit in the winter, usually around Christmas.
2020 Holiday Toy Guide
Our 2020 Holiday Toy Guide Catalog is available to view online! 410-822-7716 7 S. Washington St., Easton CrackerjacksToys.com 84
brown, violet and nearly black. A single plant can have three different colors of peppers on it. These plants make great houseplants as well as ornamental landscape plants. They grow very well in a well-lit window. They will hold their fruit for six weeks with even minimal care, bringing color to the room during the entire holiday season. Because of their unique fruit shape, ornamental peppers are also known as “Christmas” peppers. A few years ago, the USDA Agricultural Research Service released an entire series of cultivars of ornamental peppers called the Christmas Lights series, made up of four different types of cultivars named Christmas Lights
colorful fruits in a wide range of shapes, sizes and colors, including
FRANK E . DAFFIN, INC. Quality Builders Since 1936
MHIC #1857
410-822-2364 MHBR #877 frankedaffininc.com · fedaffin@atlanticbb.net 85
Tidewater Kitchen
those houseplants you can plant outside. In early spring cut the plant back drastically and place it outside after temperatures are consistently above 41 degrees. When I was a county Extension agent, I received a common question: Can the f lowering azalea plant that someone received as a Christmas plant be grown outside? Usually, in our Zone 7b, it cannot be planted in the landscape and be expected to rebloom. You can try it, but success is not guaranteed. Florist-type azaleas need exact growing conditions in the greenhouse
Blue/Red, Christmas Lights Blue/ Orange, Christmas Lights Yellow/ Red and Christmas Lights Yellow/ Orange, denoting the mature fruit color. Most of these ornamental peppers are edible, but they are extremely hot and bitter. Water ornamental peppers regularly, letting the soil dry between waterings. Plants remain more compact if the soil is kept on the dry side. Ornamental peppers do not like wet soil. Actively growing plants need light fertilization. While peppers are inside your home, keep them in a room that stays between 50 and 70 degrees. Ornamental peppers are one of
QUALITY STROKES PAINTING Interior & Exterior ¡ Commercial & Residential Free Estimates
Michael Marshall 508 August Street Easton, MD
M.H.I.C. #35075
86
Phone: 410-714-6000 Fax: 410-822-4795 qstroke@yahoo.com
Focus-Construction, Ltd. 208 E. Dover Street Easton, MD 21601 410-690-4900 Focus-Construction.Net
PE #32293 路 MHBR #5448 路 MHIC #94387 路 EPA NAT #122843-1 路 MD ESCC #42952
87
Tidewater Kitchen to produce blooming in December. The f lowering “f lorist” azalea plants for sale during the Christmas holidays are usually specific cultivars bred for greenhouse crop production. Inside the house, the f lorist azalea should be placed in a location with bright light, but not direct sun while in f lower. Night temperatures between 55 and 60 degrees will prolong f lowering. Keep the soil uniformly moist. Do not allow it to dry out completely. Don’t forget herbs as holiday gifts for your gardening friends or relatives who are also cooks. They can enjoy the herbs during winter and then plant them outdoors in the
spring. Lavender and rosemary are wonderful plants for giving. Lavender is one herb with many uses, from flower bouquets to flavoring in meats and tea. Grown from transplant, it will consistently flow-
INC.
C. ALBERT MATTHEWS
Where Integrity Meets Innovation
CARRIER 360° ENERGY AUDIT WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEMS PLUMBING-HEATING-AIR CONDITIONING GEOTHERMAL-SOLAR-NEW INSTALLATION ELECTRICAL-REPAIR & MAINTENANCE EFFICIENCY-SAFETY-COMFORT WWW.CALBERTMATTHEWSINC.COM
410-822-0900
88
er the first year and is hardy in our area if planted out of doors. The tender lavender varieties do best in winter window gardens. Grow them in pots with a well-drained media and place in a sunny window. If you grew lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) in the f lower garden this past summer, you will be enjoying the sweet scents of dried bouquets now. The fragrance is not the only nice feature of this f lower, however, as it is also used for color in potpourri. Some people occasionally use it sparingly to f lavor teas and meats. Lavender is a perennial that traditionally will not bloom the first year from seed. However, there is one variety, Lady English Lavender, that can be grown from seed and will consistently f lower the first year. Tender lavender varieties do best in winter window gardens. They perform well in pots placed near sunny windows. Use a well-drained potting media, such as peat moss and perlite in equal amounts, with one tablespoon of lime added per 6-inch pot. Lavender cannot tolerate acidity below pH 6.5 or above pH 8.5. Allow the soil to dry between waterings so the roots of the lavender will not rot. During the winter, fertilize monthly with a weak solution of liquid houseplant fertilizer. Overcrowded roots can cause potted herbs to turn brown on the leaf tips. If you see these signs, replant in a pot one or two sizes larger. 89
Tidewater Gardening
winter. This herb has a long European holiday tradition of being used as a Christmas evergreen. Topiary rosemary in the form of a wreath or a tree is an excellent holiday plant to give or receive, though plants in this form require a little extra care to maintain their shape and health. Leave the supporting wires for the wreath or topiary in place. For a standard form with single, bare stems, you occasionally will have to loosen the ties that hold the stem to its support. The stem will not change in height but will increase in diameter. Both the head of the standard and the wreath’s body need to be shaped periodically, so clip new growth for cooking or drying. Clipping will en-
Rosemary is another herb that can be grown indoors during the
90
91
Tidewater Gardening
our herbs are Mediterranean in origin and do not require a lot of water. Rosemary does not require high humidity, either. Whether you buy a f lowering plant, a fruiting plant or an herb plant for a holiday present, buy the freshest plant possible. Avoid extremes in temperature and light when locating them in the house. If the outside temperature is less than 45 degrees when taking the plant home, have it sleeved to protect it. If possible, buy these plants last on your shopping trip. Do not leave them in a cold car while you continue to shop. Leaf and blossom drop can result after just an hour of so of exposure to cold temperatures. Happy Gardening and Happy Holidays!
hance branching, and you will have a fuller topiary. Rosemary does best in a sunny southern window. Allow this plant to dry between waterings almost to the point of wilting. It is very sensitive to excess watering. If leaf tips or whole leaves turn brown and fall off, the plant has too much water. Allow this plant to dry out almost to the point of wilting. Remember that many of
Marc Teffeau retired as Director of Research and Regulatory Affairs at the American Nursery and Landscape Association in Washington, D.C. He now lives in Georgia with his wife, Linda. Open Late Fri. and Sat. in December Free Gift Wrapping Gift Cards Available
Snoskins Tribal Renuar We can outfit you from head to toe or help you NYDJ pick the perfect gift! One stop shopping! Foxcroft “We have something for everyone on your list�
410-778-9079
315 High St. #101, Chestertown, MD 92
OPEN 7 DAYS
Damee
Be the of your print world
BeBethethe
Give Us a Call
KINGofofyour yourprint printworld world Give GiveUsUsaaCall Call
COMMERCIAL & DIGITAL PRINTING
410-912-0980 delmarvaprinting.com Official Printer Of
Tidewater Times 93
COMMERCIAL & DIGITAL PRINTING
94
Lyon Rum and Gray Wolf: Superlative Spirits in St. Michaels by Michael Valliant
At Windon Distilling Company, if it isn’t remarkable, it isn’t happening. Windon is the umbrella company that connects Lyon Rum and Gray Wolf Spirits. Lyon has been making rum for seven years, and Gray Wolf has been making vodka, gin, agave and now rye whiskey for four years. Both are based in St. Michaels and expanding their foot-
prints in a growing craft distillery movement. But they are also reactive to community and statewide needs, such as stopping everything to make hand sanitizer for government agencies amidst a pandemic. “I am fond of saying that we are too small not to have everything we make be remarkable,” said Jaime Windon, CEO and Founder of Lyon
95
Superlative Spirits Rum and Windon Distilling. “There is no time for anything we do to just be okay.” Founded in 2012, Lyon Rum focuses on blending innovative techniques with traditional methods to create one-of-a-kind spirits. When they started, there were fewer than 200 craft distilleries in the country, and only a handful were making rum. Today, there are roughly 2,000 craft distilleries in the country, and hundreds of them are making rum. Even with much more competition, Lyon Rum was just named the best craft rum distillery in the United States. For Windon, running a growing distillery wasn’t part of the original plan. She spent years working in the hospitality industry, bartend-
96
97
With lots to be grateful for, we send Christmas wishes to you and your families...
Come By Chance ◊ 202 S. Talbot Street ◊ St. Michaels ◊ 410-745-5745 Open Wednesday-Monday 98
St. Michaels Map and History
© 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. For a walking tour and more history of the St. Michaels area visit https://tidewatertimes.com/travel-tourism/st-michaels-maryland/. 99
Superlative Spirits ing, writing, and doing photography while living in South America and Kenya, and traveling through Europe, India and the Caribbean. “Making rum was just another fun, creative thing I wanted to do ~ celebrating seven years was not the original plan,” she said. “It was supposed to be very small-scale project, not a business. My background is in hospitality. I used to be a writer, I was living in Kenya before I moved here ~ my original business partner had worked in distilling and was creative and thought, hey you know what St. Michaels needs…” They now have distribution in nine states, from New York to Florida. Windon’s approach when it comes to running Lyon is a combination of whimsical and purposive.
Over the years, Lyon has honed what they make down to three core rums, three rum liqueurs and some seasonal and special offerings. They decided they wanted to be the best rum distillery possible. But that didn’t stop Windon from forming a partnership with Gray Wolf Spirits when she got to know founders R.B. Wolfensberger and his wife, Meghan Brown. Gray Wolf is celebrating four years in business. When they couldn’t find an easy way to open in Annapolis, Windon suggested they come to St. Michaels. Windon Distilling was created as a parent company so that Lyon and Gray Wolf could function as two distinct and separate creative enterprises under one umbrella. Both companies embody the grain-to-glass hands-on approach to distilling. While Lyon focuses exclusively on rum, Gray Wolf
100
202B S. Talbot Street St. Michaels · 410-745-8032 Open Thurs. - Sun. 101
102
Oxford Map and History
St.
Ba
nks
n JeffersoSt.
St.
St.
To w
St.
Myrtle Ave.
South Street
Bachelor Point Road
Morris
2nd St.
Street
Third Street
n Avo . Ave t s We . St
103
Bonfield Ave.
First Street
d
Jack’s Pt. Rd.
Tre
South
rris
tory
Mo
Fac
Tred Avon Rive r
ton
art Stew e. Av
. Mill St
Nor
Oxford is one of the oldest towns in Maryland. Although already settled for perhaps 20 years, Oxford Oxford Bellevue Ferry marks the year 1683 177 166 as its official founding, 155 nd Stra St. 144 for in that year Oxford The 133 was first named by n a 18 8 19 9 hm Tilg the Maryland General k e e Assembly as a seaport Cr 122 St. n and was laid out as a son il W 11 East town. In 1694, OxSt. lair St. t nc 10 e Si rk St. Ma ford and a new town Oxford 9 t. Park hS called Anne Arundel son Hig 8 Richard . St (now Annapolis) were n Divisio St. selected the only ports of entry for the entire i Town Rd. non . eek Cr e B Ave Maryland province. n 3 isio t. Until the American S Div W. 2 Revolution, Oxford 1 t. S ne enjoyed prominence roli 7 ad Ro Ca d 333 Oxfor To Easton as an international Pleasant Oxford St. Community shipping center surCenter Hbr. Robes t. 4 C rounded by wealthy E. Pier St. Pier St. tobacco plantations. Oxford Today, Oxford is a Š John Norton 6 5 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. For a walking tour and more history visit https://tidewatertimes. com/travel-tourism/oxford-maryland/.
Superlative Spirits has created unique vodka, gin, agave and a newly released rye whiskey. The partnership works well for both companies. “We push each other, we inspire each other,” R.B. said. “When you have friends working beside you, it inspires you to do better.” Both businesses are small, with Lyon having a staff of seven people and Gray Wolf comprising just R.B. and Meghan. Being small enables the makers to interact directly with the customers. “Everyone who works here does something integral to the process. If you come visit the distillery, chances are you will meet me, my
wife, Meghan, Jaime or, these days, all three of us,” R.B. said. “When we
202 Morris St., Oxford 410-226-0010
27 Years in Business We Know Books!
Hours: Fri.-Sun. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mon. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
BOOKSELLERS Order Online www.myststerylovescompany.com before December 15 for Christmas! Look for Holiday Catalog in the Star-Democrat Thanks for your support! *Listen Fri. mornings on WCEI 96.7fm *20% off your book clubs’ books *Books of all kinds & Gifts for Book Lovers *Special orders & Book Gift Baskets *Online ordering & e-newsletter @ www. mysterlovescompany.com 104
go out to farmers markets, people are always pleasantly surprised when they learn we’re not just representatives of the company. I often get questions about how something is made, and when I respond, “Well, I put this…” I get the response, “You do this?” They aren’t expecting to meet the makers themselves.” Early in 2020, Lyon and Gray Wolf were hitting full stride. The tasting room in St. Michaels was hopping with new and returning customers, there were multiple tours of the distillery each Saturday and they were getting ready for new spirits to be released. And then COVID-19 hit. Everything stopped. The tasting room was closed, and markets
weren’t happening. And though alcohol sales went up as the pandemic settled in, it wasn’t hand-made craft spirits that people were buying. As emergency services and essential workers continued to work, hand sanitizer disappeared. There was a critical need for more. Enter distilleries. “If you think about a distillery, we make high proof alcohol, and that can be used to kill germs,” R.B. said. “We have cleaners to sanitize our tanks so that our tanks can ferment alcohol ~ we have a lot of the ingredients that go into hand sanitizer already. So when there was this supply chain breakdown, when no one could get hand sanitizer and it was going to be months until they
Ho Win liday e Pleas Deals! e cal l
day Holi eals! eD Win se call Plea
Christmas Trees · Wreaths Holiday Greens Homemade Soups & Salads Beer · Wine · Liquor
203 S. Morris St. Oxford · 410-226-0015 105
Superlative Spirits could get it again, we were the obvious choice.” After obtaining the necessary provisions and permits to make hand sanitizer, Lyon and Gray Wolf worked together, collaboratively and creatively, to make it happen. For 12 weeks, all they made was hand sanitizer, not a drop of rum, vodka or any other spirits. They worked constantly and because they saw the real need from the government and communities, they worked to make the price as cheap as they could. “Not only did we know there was a need for it, but we also saw very quickly that, like in any situa-
tion with short supply, people were charging double, triple, or adding a zero to previous prices,” Windon said. “So the first thing that R.B. did was ask what was the price before all this, what is a fair price? Our prices were all based on the liter price pre-COVID.” Whereas some companies might have looked at pivoting to meet a critical need as a major promotional opportunity, Lyon and Gray Wolf saw it as a service, downplayed their logo and didn’t look to make a splash in the media. And they made sure it went to those with the greatest need. “For a month or two, we didn’t sell it to the public at all, we sold to the county, hospitals, police, Mary-
The Treasure Chest
A Gift Shop Featuring Locally Made Artisan Crafts & Artwork
Christmas on the Creek Sale Fri. 12/ 4 through Sun. 12/ 6 10 to 50% off most items in the store! (Artist Consignment not included.)
111 S. Morris St., Oxford MD
410-924-8817
Wed. - Mon. 10 AM to 5 PM, closed Tues. · treasurechestofoxford@gmail.com 106
land Transportation Authority, the Comptroller’s office,” Windon said. “First responders would call, government agencies, and nursing homes would call, and the state police would come get a pickup.” They made roughly 40 batches, of varying sizes ~ a batch at one point was filling a 275-gallon tank. And when the demand finally slowed, the businesses moved back to begin making spirits again. “If you had told me at the beginning of the pandemic that I would have to close my tasting room for a month, let alone eight months, I would have thought we would go out of business,” Windon said. “And now we are doing all right. We are making rum, we are a thin
team, and Gray Wolf just released an amazing rye whiskey. We are resilient. We are going to be here.” What’s next for Lyon and Gray Wolf? More of the same: trying to
OPEN FOR DINNER FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY OPEN FOR SMALL PLATE LUNCH SATURDAY AND BRUNCH SUNDAY PORCH DINING OUTSIDE, INSIDE, ToGo & DELIVERED
THE ROBERT MORRIS INN 1710 OXFORD MD
314 NORTH MORRIS STREET ٠ OXFORD ٠ 410 226 5111 WWW.ROBERTMORRISINN.COM
107
Superlative Spirits make the best and most distinctive rum, vodka, gin, agave and rye you can find. Doing it with their own knowledge and their own twist. Talking with the makers about what they do is absolutely fascinating. They will tell you that craft distill-
ing is where art meets science. And they will explain how what they are doing is different than you will find anywhere else. In talking about being named America’s best craft rum distillery, Windon says awards for her are people drinking and loving her rum, but that the distinction is vali-
Brett Steigerwaldt, Lyon Rum head distiller, with R.B. Wolfensberger, cofounder/co-owner of Gray Wolf Spirits.
S. Hanks Interior Design Suzanne Hanks Litty Oxford, Maryland shanksinteriordesign@gmail.com 108
410-310-4151
Oxford Business Association December Calendar
Now thru April 2021 – Oxford Walks 21654: Virtual walk for wellness! Fight the winter blues and walk or run outside, indoors, on a treadmill, anywhere. Together, let’s walk a combined 21,654 miles! Proceeds benefit the Oxford Volunteer Fire Co. and Oxford Community Center. More info, register, and track your miles at www.oxfordcc.org. Dec. 5 thru the Holiday – Christmas on the Creek: Lighting of the dock trees on Town Creek; lovely, decorated homes; sales and specials in the shops and restaurants. Come visit this charming waterside town! www.portofoxford.com. Dec. 5 – Holiday Wreath drive-thru pickup for pre-ordered wreaths at Oxford Community Center; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sponsored by Oxford Business Assoc. www.portofoxford.com. Dec. 5 – Mistletoe Musical: Join Maureen Curtain and the Langrell Family for a wonderful family Holiday Show at the Oxford Community Center. Limited to 50 attendees. 7 p.m., no intermission. $25. Masks required. www.oxfordcc.org or 410-226-5904 for tickets. Dec. 7 – Monday Meal & Music: Order a special Oxford Community Center take-away dinner by Garden & Garnish and receive a link to a mini concert performed by Christopher Barnett on the center’s Steinway piano. $35 pp. Meal pick-up 5 p.m. at OCC. For menu and to reserve your dinner call 410-226-5904 or go to www.oxfordcc.org. Dec. 10, 14 – Gnome Door Decoration Paint Class: Paint a 20” gnome to display at home or give as gift. Many paint color choices to choose from. Class price includes one gnome, and paints and brushes to use on site. Limited to 4 students per class, masks are required to be worn and social distancing will be followed. 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; $36. Sign up at the Treasure Chest, www.treasurechestoxford.com/ shop/events/2, or call 410-924-8817. Dec. 10 – A Walk Through the Grand Canyon, Rim to Rim – Zoom presentation by Susan DeleanBotkin. 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Oxford Community Center. Go to www.oxfordcc.org to register. Dec. 12 – Meditation Yoga Retreat: A day-long retreat at Oxford Community Center will allow you to step away from the current stresses of life and turn inwards with meditation, pranayama, yoga, and quiet time rejuvenating your body and mind. $165. Limited to 16 people. Social distancing and masks required. For more info call 410-226-5904 or go to www.oxfordcc.org. Dec. 19 & 20 – ‘Golden Era, Broadway through Contemporary’ – Special musical performance at the Oxford Community Center by singers from the San Francisco Opera Co. Elegant cabaret, followed by a Q & A with the performers. Cash bar available. Limited to 50 attendees. Masks required. Sat.,7-8 p.m., no intermission. $75. Sun. at 2 p.m., $25. Limited to 25 attendees. More info at www.oxfordcc.org or call 410-226-5904.
When you buy from a small business, someone does a happy dance…
Check www.portofoxford.com calendar for event updates ONGOING… at OCC: Steady & Strong Virtual Exercise Class w/Janet Pfeffer - Tues. & Thurs; 10:15 am; Registration required to get zoom link. Call 410.226.5904; $60/10 classes; $10 drop-in Intermediate Yoga with Suzie Hurley - Saturdays 9:30 – 11 am; Socially distanced; bring your own equipment. Advance registration required, 410.226.5904 Beginner/Adv. Beginner Yoga with Suzie Hurley - Mondays 1 – 2:45 pm; Socially distanced; bring your own equipment. Advance registration required, 410.226.5904
Oxford Business Association ~ portofoxford.com 109
Superlative Spirits dation for the hard work they have put in and the decisions they have made along the way. For Gray Wolf, releasing a solera-finished rye whiskey was the culmination of a four-year process. They find creative and innovative approaches to making spirits that come from enthusiasm and instinct. “In my world of spirits, it’s what do I have a gut feeling about? What do I believe in? What sounds cool to me?” R.B. said. “If I don’t believe it, how do I put it out there in front of anyone else? When you are making something that really is you, you go with your instincts.” The businesses work well togeth-
er. They have fun and love what they do. They support each other. And they have figured out what they do well. “In craft brewing and distilling, there is always a buzz for what’s next,” Windon said. “They are constantly releasing a new thing. I don’t want my company to be known for always releasing the next thing, but for being great at what we do.” Michael Valliant is the Assistant for Adult Education and Newcomers Ministry at Christ Church Easton. He has worked for non-profit organizations throughout Talbot County, including the Oxford Community Center, Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and Academy Art Museum.
Tidewater Residential Designs since 1989
TIMOTHY B. KEARNS TBKEARNSDESIGN.COM · 410.226.5100 110
For over 25 years, we have been serving the people and businesses of the Delmarva Peninsula. We service and install most makes and models of HVAC equipment and commercial refrigeration equipment.
High Efficiency Boilers and Water Heaters · Metal Duct Systems Underground Duct Systems · Customized Commercial Applications Customized Ductless Systems for your Home or Business Indoor Air Quality Products Sales and Installation Humidification & Dehumidifier Systems Whether you have a single uncomfortable room, you’re renovating your entire house, or you’re building a home from scratch, Mitsubishi Electric has a Zoned Comfort Solution® that fits your unique needs. Because our systems focus on individual living spaces rather than treating every room the same, it’s more customizable, more energy efficient and easier to install.
410-543-2962
Keeping HVAC equipment running on the Shore for 25 years! 111
NEW - Winter Food Sampler Joy Box
8223 Elliott Road, Easton, MD 21601 • 410-690-3284 • www.wbu.com/easton BIRD FOOD • FEEDERS • GARDEN ACCENTS • UNIQUE GIFTS 112
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 more info. visit www.chestertown.com. 113
EXCAVATING & HAULING
LLC
PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY FROM WATER EROSION
CALL TODAY FOR A QUOTE
410.310.4516 R I P- R A P
LIVING SHORELINES
slaydens.com | slaydensllc@gmail.com MHIC # 133669 | MD MARINE CONTRACTOR #366(E)
114
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. 115
116
Dorchester Map and History
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. For more information about Dorchester County visit https://tidewatertimes.com/travel-tourism/dorchester/. 117
TRADITIONAL MADE MODERN
8 0 3 G O L D S B O R O U G H S T R E E T, E A S T O N
|
410.822.2622
BOUNTIFULFLOORING.COM 118
Hurleys Neck by A.M. Foley
One day, archaeologists may study lost 19th-century civilizations of the Eastern Shore ~ perhaps Hurleys Neck. One denizen of Hurleys Neck, Fulton Fisher, went to his grave claiming to hold the record for fast-walking from Cow Lane to the crossroads store. Not all records are made to be broken. Few today could locate where the store once stood or pinpoint the overgrown Cow Lane, and none of those survivors is going to break any record for fast-walking.
Fulton (1908-1987) was born and raised in Dorchester County’s Hurleys Neck ~ not to be confused with the Hurleys Neck across the Nanticoke River in Wicomico County. The Hurleys were a fecund, longlived clan, many of whom made a living on the river. Timbering, carpentry and boatbuilding were other common skills. (“Ol’ man Hughes in his nineties was runnin’ the store’s ridgepole like a killdee’.”) The Fisher family home was one of many scattered about the Neck: around its lower edge at the marsh
119
Hurleys Neck
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Thank You for Your Patronage!
Sue Sterling’s Hair Studio, Inc. 105 Federal St., Suite A Easton, MD 410-822-6777
and Savannah Lake, along the high ground where the road still snakes through the woods on its way to Elliott Island, up and down Cow Lane and along the river and creek. Upwards of 500 people once made up the community. Fulton possessed an illiterate’s gift of total recall, able to recite word-for-word just about anything ever said in his presence. Educated neighbors deferred to Fulton’s more precise memory of 50-year-old events and conversations. Fulton’s world and way of life have been swallowed up and digested by forest and marsh, just as surely as any jungle erased a Mayan civilization. A roadside locale called Cokeland once sort of served as the unofficial capital of Hurleys Neck. Lev Davenport was Cokeland’s last resident. His house burned down several years after his death in 1987. That left Layton’s long-vacant store the last structure standing in Cokeland, but the old store has since crumbled, its remains barely discernible, lying by the roadside ditch. Fulton wasn’t born yet when the Schooner William Layton was built on Wapremander Creek in Hurleys Neck. Though he missed the Neck’s most memorable event, he had heard so many descriptions of the 1873 launch, he might as well have been in the crowd, perhaps riding on his father John’s shoul120
CRONSHAW CARPENTRY
We Specialize in Remodeling!
SCOTT CRONSHAW 8304 GANNON CIRCLE, EASTON
410.822.0981 office 410.310.4168 cell
www.cronshawcarpentry.com scronshaw@goeaston.net MHIC #76923 121
Hurleys Neck ders. John Fisher would surely have been among the hundreds of people who witnessed the two-master slide sideways into the narrow Nanticoke tributary, soon to be fully rigged and bound for the Bahamas. At 79 feet, Layton was the largest of uncountable vessels built in Hurleys Neck, and she proved as long lived as any typical Necker. Commissioned by the local store owner for whom she was named, she was considered the ideal size for the then-lucrative pineapple trade. Before Hawaiians shipped duty-free fruit in cans, green “pines” for eastern market were loaded off West Indian isles to ripen in holds such as
the Layton’s while sailing for Baltimore, cargo worth about $1,200 a trip. In fair weather, wind sails ventilated open hatches, steamboat holds being too hot for such use. *** Early in the 20th century, a resort of sorts developed at Sandy Hill, across the Nanticoke River from Hurleys Neck. Fulton’s father, John Fisher, had a large workboat, so he could ferry parties across the Nanticoke for concerts and dances. On warm evenings, music drifted across the water from a lantern-lit pavilion, attracting parties of young people from up and down the river. The tugboat Delaware brought parties from all the way up to Seaford, Delaware.
Flooring Tile Rugs Fabrics Wallpaper Hunter Douglas Cabinets & Countertops ♦
♦
♦
♦
Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas 3109 OCEAN GATEWAY, CAMBRIDGE 410-228-9022 122
Wishing Everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday
BRUCE HARRINGTON CONSTRUCTION CO., INC. Est. 1994 410.820.7783
office@bharringtonconstruction.com · bharringtonconstruction.com 123
Hurleys Neck Dash, the Fisher family’s German Shepherd, pulled a dogcart with a five-gallon can of gasoline down to the water, where John Fisher’s converted canoe tied up. The venerable craft carried 20 people at 25 cents per crossing. The excursion was so popular he was able to buy an Elliott Island-built craft that could, in a pinch, hold 40 head. True to their name, Fisher men were primarily drift- and stakenetters, but they had to adapt after netting the spring run of rock and sturgeon spawning in the upper Nanticoke: cultivate summer tomatoes, freight them to numerous nearby canneries, cut timber or
man one of several sawmills, trap muskrat in winter. Fulton lacked the versatility of a typical Hurleys Necker. He was a creature of habit, born into a world where a man needed to be multi-talented. His uncle Elijah, on the other hand, was an entrepreneur. One of many early aquaculturists, Elijah leased Maryland riverbed, planted and grew seed oysters and hauled the matured bivalves by oxen from Wapremander Creek to his threeroom oysterhouse. In the first room they were stored and shucked. The next rooms were popular gathering places for local men. The middle room served scalded oysters and soft drinks, and in the third room Uncle Lij cut hair.
BAILEY MARINE CONSTRUCTION, INC.
A 5th Generation Company - Since 1885 COMPLETE MARINE CONSTRUCTION
RIPRAP · MARSH CREATIONS BAILEY DOCKS · BOAT LIFTS Heavy Duty and Shallow Water STONE REVETMENTS
410-822-2205
Call for a free estimate! MD H.I.C. Lic. #343
baileymarineconstruction.com 124
CHAIRITY
OF CHOICE SALE ENDS JAN. 18
Imagine ... giving a gift that will last. Receive $400 OFF Stressless Mayfair chairs and ottomans and $200 OFF all other seating with a $50 donation to charity. 125
LAUREL, DELAWARE 302.875.2222
Hurleys Neck “I’ve seen many a head in that house,” Fulton recalled, many of them millhands. Five sawmills operated in the Neck at different times, but Fulton never worked at any of them. After picking tomatoes in late summer, he had time to spare. In the fall of the year, Uncle
Lij made hard cider. Fulton lived his long life with a crooked finger to remind him of an early attempt to help: “This crook in my finger come from a time it got caught in a cog at Uncle Lij’s. I was feedin’ apples into a hopper and it broke my finger. He was gonna carry me to the doctor and get it set, but my aunt soaked it in warm water and put salve on it
HEADRUSH 180 Great Hair Happens Here STRAIGHT RAZOR SHAVES Hair Cuts Hot Towels/Neck Massage Private Room
331 N. AURORA ST., EASTON · 410.770.5115
Renovations, Remodeling & Additions Quality Craftsmanship & Attention to Detail Prompt Personal Service Complete Residential Architectural Design Services Maryland Home Improvement Lic. #74140
410-829-5171 · www.coastaldesignbuild.net 126
127
Hurleys Neck and wrapped it, so I didn’t have to go. She ’membered me as sayin’, ‘I’m ruin’t. I’m ruin’t.’” A crooked fi nger didn’t prevent the Army from drafting Fulton into the Second World War. Fortunately, he was not sent overseas, obviously unfit for military service from the start. Drill sergeants had no patience with a draftee unable to match steps with more long-legged comrades. The obstacle course was another challenge. Years later, he sat in the corner store, remembering “a wall as high as this ceiling. You were supposed to jump and grab the top and pull yourself over. Sometimes I slipped around it and
got caught.” Ultimately, Fulton received a medical discharge and a pension that met his modest needs for the rest of his life. Before the war, when field work was to be had, Fulton earned 75 cents a day in the ’30s working on Horace Murphy’s farm. Some made a dollar a day, which he didn’t resent. He got his dinner and supper with the Murphys. (“Mrs. Murphy loaded the table. She was a good cook, except for butter beans.”) *** Between the fi sh and timber and the fur market, in a good year money could be made in Hurleys Neck. Had there been a bank, not everybody would have trusted it.
Justamere Trading Post Native American Jewelry Crafts & Other Unique Gifts Unusual Spices & Seasonings Bulk Herbs Teas From All Over The World
7 N. Harrison Street, Easton 410-745-2227 www.justamereherb.com 128
129
The Mid-Shore’s premier No Kill Shelter
Come Adopt! 4930 Bucktown Road, Cambridge · 410-228-3090 info@baywateranimalrescue.org · www.baywateranimalrescue.org
Adopt a shelter dog or cat today Get free pet care information Spay or neuter your pet for a longer life Volunteer your services to benefit the animals 410-822-0107 www.talbothumane.org
130
The Bailey Group, LLC “Let Us Help You!” Interior · Exterior Demolition
“Quick Response” Residential & Commercial Concrete Removal Hand Excavating/ Footers/ Crawl Space Hauling · Power Washing Window & Gutter Cleaning Furnace & Oil Tank Removal Shingles and Siding Removal French Drains Construction Debris Remove & Replace Insulation · Water Clean Up Cleaning Service · Rake Level Under Residence General Maintenance Need your garage cleaned out? Car transported? Call Us - We Do It All!
410-822-8500
kennethbailey1951@gmail.com
Bailey Executive Transportation
All Major Airports
Escalades · Suburbans Mercedes · 14 Passenger Van
Pete Bailey - Owner · 410-822-8500 131
Hurleys Neck Regardless, the lack of one inspired many tales of buried treasure among store-sitters. One story generally accepted as fact held that a man named Wainwright had found $8,000 in hidden gold and donated much of it toward building the crossroads chapel. “Uncle Lij’s funeral was the most ever was in Wainwright’s Chapel,” Fulton said of another record that will never be broken. “He liked to cut up. Folks liked him for that.” *** Every Necker kept an eye on passing river traffic. Among the familiar freighting captains was C.
Calvert “Katz” Evans. He was raised downriver on Elliott Island and later moved to Vienna, Maryland, a few miles up from Hurleys Neck. He ran freight in the Sarah C. Conway, another former pineapple schooner. After freighting with her for a year under sail, he had reluctantly converted to diesel. (“She was a crack sailer.”) The conversion enabled him to contract to run phosphate rock from Baltimore to Seaford three times a week, returning down the Nanticoke with grain, often in time to overnight at home before heading back to Baltimore. Sarah was tied up to his Vienna wharf one night in May 1957 when a breakaway river barge struck and sank her, killing his longtime cook, Pete Drink-
Beall Appraisal Service, LLC Antiques :: Decorative Arts :: Household Contents
Down-Sizing, Estate Planning, Insurance, Charitable Contribution & Probate
Claiborne B. Beall, ASA Serving Maryland’s Eastern Shore
BeallAppraisals.com 132
Call 410-271-6069
133
Hurleys Neck water. To avoid losing his steady contract, Captain Katz purchased the dieselized John J. Crouch. Though unrecognizable, the Crouch was actually the William Layton, come full circle back to the Nanticoke River after decades of hauling pineapples from the West Indies and running oysters for Harvey Conway of Cambridge and general freight for two different owners out of Reedsville, Virginia, and Salisbury, Maryland. The “ol’ Bill Layton” had been converted from sail to power in 1948 before being purchased by Captain Katz in 1957 and renamed Carol Ann for his daughter. A year after her sinking, Captain
Katz was able to raise and repair his beloved Sarah, for a time operating both her and Carol Ann. Eventually, he sold Carol Ann (nee Ida B. Conway/John J. Crouch/William Layton), and she returned again to the West Indies, only to be lost off Puerto Rico in 1973, her hundredth year. Forty-some years ago, A.M. Foley swapped the Washington, D.C., business scene for a writing life on Elliott Island, Maryland. Tidewater Times has kindly published portions of one upcoming work, Chesapeake Bay Island Hopping, along with other regional musings. Foley’s published works are described at www.HollandIslandBook.com.
Meet Lexi Webb our Junior Stylist! Call to schedule your next blow out or special occasion style with Lexi starting at $25 through the end of 2020
101 EAST DOVER STREET, EASTON, MD AT THE TIDEWATER INN
410-822-4247 WWW.STUDIO2SALON.COM
134
Chesapeake Dock’s
Floating Duck Blind
Bringing Your Dock To Life Kayak Docks • Floating Piers • Re-Decking • Dock Furniture Pressure Wash & Seal • Kayak Racks • Ladders • Piling Caps Boat Lifts PWC Lifts • Gangways • Dock Boxes • Solar Dock Lighting
135
Island Furniture Studio A Sea of Possibilities
All Items On Sale! 112 Hess Frontage Rd., Grasonville, MD 21638 E x i t 4 5 A o ff R t . 5 0 | 4 1 0 . 3 0 4 . 2 1 6 1 @Island_Furniture |
islandfurniturestudio.com
136
Changes:
All American Part XV of a novel in many parts
by Roger Vaughan Previously: The year is 1988. 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 Round the World Race challenge. Okay, you know the rest, but if you need a refresher, go to www. tidewatertimes.com (writers, Roger Vaughan), where you can find all previous chapters.
“
L
***
ig ht s!” It was Dave Zimmer’s voice, loud and clear, exulting over the glow he’d identified dead ahead indicating that land in the shape of Punta del Este, Uruguay, was not far off. Land, after 20 days. Not a long time compared to the endless early voyages in the old square riggers, but it
was relative. In today’s world, how many people other than a handful of yachtsmen, a few astronauts, scientists on research vessels or sailors on extended military missions could say they had been away from dry land for 20 days? Or even one day. After 20 days, body rhythm had changed along with one’s priorities. Eating and sleeping habits had changed, as had one’s social life, and normal communication ~ the daily intake of news, gossip, music and the endless bombardment of Earthly noise ~ had been eliminated. After 20 days, All American’s crew didn’t know whether to dread land or embrace it. “Fried chicken,” Jan Sargent said. That, everyone could agree on. Zimmer’s clarion call woke Andy, whose dream had him on his mountain bike again, taking big air as he landed in a gravel patch and skidded into a damp tunnel where his blooddrenched father, looking like the walking dead, was coming for him, his face a frightening mask of rage, screaming “Bastard!” over and over. It had been nearly eight days since
137
All American
the boom would be dragging in the water and the pressure of such a they’d been becalmed crossing the knockdown could tear the mainsail Equator. The wind had returned apart or break the mast. That would with a vengeance, and “Double-A,” be fun. A thousand miles from noas the boat had come to be known where with no mast and possible among the crew, had eaten up the serious injuries. miles like an athletic thoroughbred The seas had also been up, and on a heavy dose of performance- they were beam-on, requiring the enhancing drugs. It had been a wild helmsmen to find a friendly path ride, wet, noisy, uncomfortable and through the steep troughs ~ tearing frightening, four things Jan Sargent down the back of one wave, driving considered the essence of winning. up the front of the next ~ without “Show me a dry, comfortable crew,” getting smacked by the wave tops he had said during one particularly that were usually breaking. The crazy night, “and I’ll show you a combination of wind speed and anbunch of losers.” Sargent knew how gle had perished any thought of carto stimulate his team. rying the asymmetrical spinnaker. Most of the eight Such conditions agitated ocean and an had a way of wiping days had been spent unbroken dome of sky out all Earthly drahumoring DoubleA. Like some crazed ma, no matter how was all that existed honey badger, the crucial it might have boat had impossible behavior in previously seemed. The tumultuous mind that could only spell self-de- world of agitated ocean, and an unstruction if not curtailed. The wind, broken dome of sky, was all that exwhich had averaged over 30 knots isted. Life on an unstable platform, much of the time, had been mostly subject to nature’s whims, with the on the beam, any monohull’s fastest barest of cover provided by this fragpoint of sailing. But with a light flier ile vessel of fiberglass became totally like All American, that was also the consuming. Andy could imagine how most perilous point of sail because astronauts must feel, how becoming it meant managing sail combina- weightless must quickly reduce land tions that wouldn’t overpower the to a faded memory. boat but would be sufficient to allow The work on deck was backthe helmsman to maintain control. breaking. Just hanging on, dealing Not enough sail, and the seas would with the boat’s abrupt, radical mohave their way with the boat. But tion, was a constant challenge. The if the boat were overpowered, if it watches retired exhausted, with were to break loose and round up, crewmen quickly falling out in their 138
139
All American
Eric Menici was up, as usual, bent over his editing machine lookgear on bunks and sail turtles. Two ing at clips his onboard cameras or three hours before Zimmer’s call, had filmed during the heavy weaththe wind had mercifully abated er. Andy peered over Eric’s shoulder and come slightly ahead. The reef at the images he’d captured of spray was shaken out of the main, and flying and large seas. a larger heads’l was raised. When “Man. Glad I wasn’t on that boat.” Andy awoke, All American had the “Me, too.” rail down and was making 12 knots “I know it’s frowned upon, but sailing on a close reach in 15 knots since we’re close, can I get a mesof wind. By comparison, the boat sage to a guy I need to speak with, felt steady, comfortable. Andy had let him know I’ll be available soon?” to laugh. By comparison. “Yep. Gimme his phone.” Still blitzed by his dream, he re“Here it is. Thanks. I owe you alized with some amazement that one.” he hadn’t thought about Mountain “A plate of fried chicken.” Eric View for several days. Jeff Linn’s chuckled. cryptic email came Andy handed don't waste energy back to him like a Jeff’s card to Eric over what sledgehammer. The with this scribbled immensity of losing on the back: “Punyou can't control Mountain View, and ta close. Talk in 4 the generous hunk of his personal hours.” fortune that he had put into it, made “Got it, 10-4 and all that. You’ll him glad he was still lying down. It be an hour ahead in Punta, don’t was too much to contemplate. Noth- forget.” ing to be done until he could talk As dawn broke, All American with Linn. There he was, ocean and crossed the finish line, one end of sky, nothing to be accomplished on which was the 140-foot Faro (lightthe unreliable satellite phone. He house) de Punta del Este that had recalled Jan Sargent getting after been blinking at them every eight Teddy Bosworth for ranting about seconds for the past two hours. Enbeing becalmed when crossing the gine on, sails down flaked and turequator. “Don’t waste energy over tled, and everyone on deck as they what you can’t control,” Sargent had were welcomed by 30 or so hearty told Bosworth. Beyond the bluster, souls who had taken their boats out and his standup act designed for to greet them. As they rounded the public consumption, Sargent was a long pier of the Marinas del Puerto, smart dude. everyone drew a quick breath of 140
Wishing you and yours a Happy and Prosperous New Year! All of us at, Christine M. Dayton Architect 141
All American
understood why the Arctic Tern transfers to an outgoing vessel disappointment as they saw Ram when the vessel he’s hitched a ride Bunctious parked in the slip re- on gets close to land. served for first-to-finish. Andy had fought with all he had “Goddamn calm at the equator,” to avoid going on this race. He’d Terry Bosworth muttered. Later been wet and varying degrees of unthey would learn that the Kiwi boat comfortable for three weeks. Now, had beaten them in by 29 minutes. with the presenter shoving a microNot bad after 6,000 miles. phone in his face, he realized he was They’d barely gotten their dock already missing the peace, the tranlines secure when a delivery guy quility, even the crazy high-speed appeared with a huge box of fried sailing of open ocean. Water and chicken and a case of beer. Sar- sky. He found himself mumbling gent’s work. The crew dove in as if something about the first American they hadn’t eaten in a month. The boat in the race, the proud sponlocal TV channel filmed the feeding sorship of Moss Optics, and what a frenzy, then climbed on board. Jan great boat All American was before Sargent suddenly the boys came to his Isha was looking appeared in a clean rescue with cheers very good after shirt and team jackand cold beers, inet, looking salty but terview over with a three weeks at sea very cool, and gave good closing shot. the local station’s crew everything Andy scanned the dock hoping he they could have hoped for. might see Becky, but it was Isha who “Were you surprised to see Ram was seen working her way through Bunctious when you turned the cor- the crowd. Isha, who was looking ner?” the presenter asked. very good after three weeks, wear“No, not at all,” Sargent said. ing a revealing top of soft fabric “Those boys are good. We have our over tights. “Dressing the curves,” work cut out. And by the way, can she liked to say. Stu Samuels was you suggest a good liquor store? I standing beside Andy, watching have a bet to pay off.” Isha’s approach with obvious deWell briefed, the presenter light. “Fried chicken might come grabbed the boss’s son. Andy didn’t in second, eh?” Stu said, nudging realize how exhausted he was until Andy, who cracked up. Then he he found himself under the lights, thought about the phone call. staring into the glass eye of the Isha had a limo waiting, of camera. The confusion of land was course. On the way to the Iberia instantly upon him. Right then, he Hotel, Andy put his arm around her. 142
143
All American
Funny idea. Isha looking around. Wait, she’s meeting someone, a guy. She pulled away. “God, you smell Heavy set, black ponytail, wearing horrible,” she said, and that ended jeans and a sweat-stained shirt, that. The hotel wasn’t far. They both untucked. Andy watched as the two got out. The driver pulled Andy’s of them had a conversation. What fragrant bag of damp gear out of the the hell. . .? Isha got up, crossed trunk. the street and walked into the Sco“Here’s the key,” Isha said. “I have tia Bank. The guy remained on the errands. See you in a while. Take a bench. shower, take two showers, please!” The phone rang. Man, he was “My phone. You have my phone?” tired, could hardly think. Two fast Isha dug in her bag. “Yes, but beers on the boat hadn’t helped. it probably won’t work here.” She He was hungry. He’d gotten one handed it to Andy and hustled off. piece of chicken before the TV reIn the room he dropped his bag porter had grabbed him. Now he and dialed Jeff on the house phone. was watching Isha meeting some Busy. Really? At 7 a.m.? “Call me.” guy on the streets of Punta del Este. He dug in his Andy had stepped What is she up to, bag and pulled out off the boat less than sitting on a bench his powerful little an hour ago and he at a bus stop? pocket scope, a prowas already feeling totype for a high-end beat up. Bloody hell. upgrade Moss was considering, and Fucking land! walked to the window. The fifth Jeff Linn wasn’t much help. He floor gave him a good angle over didn’t know much. Neither George the trees in the park adjacent to the Cooper, whom Andy had hired to hotel. He could see faces two blocks organize the Mountain View Corpoaway. Amazing. He put it down, ration when Mitch had rejected the dialed Jeff again. Busy. “Call me, idea as a project for Moss, nor Coodamn it.” per’s secretary, could be reached. Oh, Andy picked up the scope, re- yeah, Andy had taken the astronturned to the window, and browsed. omy resort idea to Mitch, thinking Whoa, wait a minute, damned if it for one terribly misguided moment wasn’t Isha, stepping out, what a that it would improve his otherwise walk, shaking it, ought to be illegal, dismal reputation in the company. on a mission, looking at her watch. In his most haughty, dismissive What is she up to, sitting on a bench manner, Mitch had said no, thanks, at a bus stop? She’s definitely not that Moss’s business was to make waiting for a bus. Isha taking a bus? optical products, not start “theme 144
145
All American
actually dead. I know I’m toast. We need to think this out. See what parks.” When George Cooper had you can learn. Make some calls. come along, Andy had been delight- Call Sam Cotton. He’s been there ed. With a degree in planetary sci- forever. He and Deedee are close. ence, plus being a savvy business- Tell him you’re calling for me. Tell man, George was perfect for the job. him everything. He can be trusted. Now, after two years, he was gone? Okay?” Andy stared at the crack in How. . .? Jeff said he’d been trying to the ceiling looking for answers, or find him for ten days. Checks were maybe bugs. “Wait. One thing. I’m due. Creditors were calling. trying to remember how we met “You can write checks,” Andy re- George Cooper, how he came into minded Jeff. our lives.” There was a pause. There was a pause. “That was “What!?” two years ago,” Jeff said. “Not sure. “The account has been locked,” I think I heard about him through Jeff said quietly. you. Wasn’t he an old friend of Andy had flopped on the bed Isha’s?” and was staring at “Yeah,” Andy said, He was shocked at a small crack in the his head slowly spinceiling. “Are you kid- the gaunt, rugged face ning. “I think that’s ding? Have you talkright.” he saw in the mirror. ed with the bank? Andy managed to Are you serious? Okay, look, I just get the phone into the receiver begot off the freaking boat. I need fore he fell asleep. Eight hours later, food. I need sleep. I need to get laid. he woke up and again was staring at I need to jump out the damned win- the crack in the ceiling. Had it gotdow. Speaking of getting laid, not. ten bigger? He wondered what the With that neat little scope you de- bad smell was and realized it was signed, I just saw Isha on the street himself. He was starved. He called having a meeting with some funky room service and ordered steak dude. We’ll talk later. Okay?” and eggs, then went into the bath“Some funky dude?” room. He caught sight of himself in “Yeah.” the mirror and was shocked at the “Maybe one of the crew?” gaunt, rugged face staring back at “No, man. Some street dude. him: the tousled hair unwashed for Look, Jeff, I don’t know, don’t ask three weeks, the growth of beard me. Maybe I imagined it. Maybe I and moustache, the red eyes, the imagined I just did 20 days on the cracked lips. It was a face he hadn’t open ocean in a dinghy. Maybe I’m seen in weeks, a face he hadn’t ever 146
FULL SERVICE TREE COMPANY
A-Fordable Tree Service, LLC is a full service tree company based in Maryland serving the Eastern Shore, Annapolis and Delaware. A-Fordable Tree Service uses state-of-the-art equipment and prides itself by using the most skilled tree removal technicians in the industry while providing an affordable cost to the customer. Give us a Call!
Tree Removal REQ UE Stump Grinding FREE ST YOUR QUO TE Tree Trimming Storm Damage Cleanup 410-820-5030 Toll Free: 855-755-TREE www.a-fordabletreeservice.com 147
All American seen. He pulled off his shirt and saw muscles he didn’t recognize. His arms were defined. His stomach was f lat, showing pecs. And the bruises, must be half a dozen good abrasions and black-and-blue marks on arms and chest he didn’t remember getting. Some dried blood. His hands were a sight, scarred and calloused, cracked and salted. Isha’s array of cosmetics took up most of the sink shelf. He grabbed her electric toothbrush and went at it, then jumped in the shower. He was out by the time the food arrived. The phone woke Andy. He’d slept another few hours. It was Isha. “Sorry I didn’t get back, but I ran into Roger Davis’s girlfriend, Gloria, who is here and she and Roger have rented this little apartment with a great view of the water, so I’ve been hanging out with her because I know how much you needed to sleep, so I thought I wouldn’t bother you, wasn’t that nice of me?” Andy recognized an Isha monologue in full flight, so he said nothing. “Anyway, listen, we have this cool plan for later, a great spot, very local, very get-down Punta, if you know what I mean, good drinks, great local food, great guitar player, I hear. The limo will pick you up at eight out front. I’ll go with Gloria
and Roger because it’s very close to where they are.” “Don’t you need to change?” “No, no, this is dress down, very, you’ll see. I’ll be fine. I bought this very Punta blouse that shows Them off very nicely, I think you’ll agree.” “I’m actually more eager to get down with you and Them than hit one of Punta’s low spots, if you know what I mean.” Andy was firing for effect. “Oh, baby, I know, but later we’ll have the whole rest of the night to play, okay?” Andy smiled. “Sounds good to me.” He was hearing a new undertone in everything Isha said. It had a name: bullshit.
T
hree hours later, Andy was sitting at the bar at Señor Rico’s, a run-down joint in a rough section of the city. Although he had to admit, the Chivito steak sandwich had been damn good. And the guitar player had some chops. But now he was pretty drunk, enjoying the company of several local guys who were amused by this American sailor who was buying them drinks and pouring out his heart to them. They had learned about this girl Becky whom he fancied, how he’d known her since they were kids, and another girl, Isha, who was looking like trouble, she’d actually always been trouble, and some bad business deal, something to do with a moun-
148
tain that was falling apart. Crazy American guy. He kept asking if this Isha woman had called, if there was a message. “She’s two hours late, man, and that’s a lot even for Isha.” That brought laughter from Andy’s new friends, who were making jokes about him in Spanish, and repeating a few English, all-purpose clichés. Around eleven o’clock, Andy decided to give it up. The evening had gone south like everything else. Had he been in the wrong place? Naw, the limo driver would have known. Isha had given him the address. But it sure wasn’t her kind of place, this Señor Rico’s. Had something happened to Roger and Gloria? Or Isha? He’d better get back to
the hotel, call it a night. He paid his tab, exposing a large bill as he left a generous tip, then shook hands all around as he pulled himself together and left. Andy had barely gotten to the sidewalk when he realized he had company. He recognized two of the guys from a table in the back of the bar. There was a third, rough-looking, with mean eyes. Before Andy could get his bearings, the third guy had given him a shove that knocked him to the ground. Andy fished in his pocket, pulled out the 10,000 peso note, and held it out. “Okay,” he said. The rough guy laughed, quietly pulled a knife and snapped out the blade with the flick of his wrist. The
KILEY DESIGN GROUP INTERIOR & ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
Easton, MD | www.kileydesigngroup.com | 240.925.6379 149
All American sound raised the hairs on Andy’s neck. Andy looked at each of the men. For a moment he was totally cowed, intimidated, his back against the wall, outnumbered by seriouslooking badass toughs. He reverted to money. “More tomorrow,” he said. “I get more tomorrow.” “Bastid!” Knife man spit it out like a wad of tobacco juice The word went through Andy like an electric charge, triggering a reaction he’d never felt before. Then he registered the man’s black ponytail, the sweat-stained shirt, untucked. He was instantly sober. He got to his feet slowly and extended the bill to knife man, who reached for it
with his left hand as he readied the knife to strike. Andy’s sudden attack caught him off guard. The knife sliced along Andy’s forearm as he struck Knife Man in the throat, hard, with his fist. The weapon fell with a clatter onto the sidewalk. Knife Man began choking, gasping for air. Andy was on him like a mad dog, landing blow after blow. The others tried to jump in, but blind rage combined with the hardened shape he was in made them no match for Andy. He flung them away like it was some choreographed movie fight. Hurting, they ran off, leaving Andy to pound Knife Man into unconsciousness. Andy heard people running toward them. He rolled off Knife Man and sprang to his feet, looking for
“Super Fun Gifts For All!” 213A South Talbot St., St. Michaels 410-745-8072 150
the weapon. “Whoa, take it easy.” It was Jan Sargent and Eric Menici. Andy’s knees suddenly felt weak. Jan and Eric grabbed him, held him up until he caught his breath. “You’re bleeding like a stuck pig,” Sargent said, pulling a bandana from his back pocket and wrapping Andy’s arm. “What’s this?” Sargent gently pulled the bloodied 10,000 peso note from Andy’s still-clenched fist. “He wouldn’t make change.” “What brought you to this lovely part of town?” “A limo,” Andy said, still out of breath. “I might ask you the same thing.” The three of them laughed. Eric squatted down, checked Knife Man.
“Sleeping soundly. He’ll live.” “That’s very good news,” Sargent said. “You take on the whole bar?” “Three, I think,” Andy said. “Felt like the whole bar.” “You okay?” “You know,” Andy said, “I feel pretty good. Pretty damn good.” “Let’s blow this joint, unless you plan to invite the police to have a drink,” Sargent said. As he was getting up, Eric saw a crumpled envelope next to knife man’s form. He read “Scotia Bank” on it. He quietly picked up the envelope and stuck it in his jeans. Roger Vaughan has lived, worked and sailed in Oxford since 1980.
Celebrating 25 Years Tracy Cohee Hodges Vice President Area Manager Eastern Shore Lending
111 N. West St., Suite C Easton, MD 21601 410-820-5200 tcohee@firsthome.com
www.tracycohee.com
NMLS ID: 148320
This is not a guarantee to extend consumer credit. All loans are subject to credit approval and property appraisal. First Home Mortgage Corporation NMLS ID #71603 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)
151
Happy Holidays and a Safe, Healthy New Year!
Gorgeous Center Hall Colonial in Easton’s charming Historic District. Tastefully expanded & updated by owner/contractor skilled in historic renovation. Hardwood floors, lovely trim and moldings, high ceilings and tons of character. Four bedrooms, completely redesigned kitchen, new 1st floor laundry, low maintenance exterior, inviting front wrap around porch, rear screen porch, stone patios, garage and storage shed. $729,000
Janet Larson, Associate Broker 410.310.1797 jlarson@bensonandmangold.com www.shoremove.com
BENSON & MANGOLD REAL ESTATE
31 Goldsborough St., Easton, MD 21601 · 410.822.6665 · www.bensonsandmangold.com
152
REDUCED
OAKLANDS One mile from Easton on Oxford Road Community dock. 4 bedroom home with formal and informal living/entertaining areas. Kitchen open to family room, hardwood floors, fireplace. Garage. 2 acres, partly wooded. $419,000
EASTON HISTORIC DISTRICT Move-In-Condition home of awardwinning decorator, 1 block from the Tidewater Inn. HW floors. 1st story BR and BA. Modern kit. overlooking patio and garden. Offstreet parking. Potential income from 2 rental units. $899,000
SEVENTH HAVEN Private setting minutes from Easton. 3.7 high acres looking west over Dixon Creek. Bailey pier with 4 ft MLW. Huge oak trees, dogwoods, border ravines. Informal low maintenance residence with many recent updates. First time offered in 75 years. $1,195,000.
SHORELINE REALTY 114 Goldsborough St., Easton, MD 21601 410-822-7556 ¡ 410-310-5745 www.shorelinerealty.biz ¡ bob@shorelinerealty.biz
aqua74.com