From the Editor James

There’s an important article is this month’s issue. Well, there’s more than one, but allow me to digress for a moment. I’m specifically referring to “Riverkeepers on the Frontline” written by Lisa Hillman. This is a discussion piece about habitat and environment issues as seen and told by several of the Chesapeake Bay region’s riverkeepers—the leaders and organizations that monitor, patrol, and advocate for the health and preservation of our local tributaries. Their work is tedious and never ending, but critical to fulfilling the dream of restored rivers and our precious bay.

I’m hoping and believing this dream will become reality in my lifetime. The abundance of natural resources in our region is remarkable and should be appreciated by all.

Consider this: during the last week of summer before the kids went back to school, my family spent our staycation exploring state parks and outdoor experiences. In just one week’s time and within an hour’s drive of our state capital, we: (1) waded and fished the cool, cobblestone streams and waterfalls of Little Patuxent River at Savage Mill; (2) ventured to Patapsco Valley State Park and hiked six miles in the riverfront foothills; (3) drove to Calvert Cliffs State Park, hiking four

editor From the

The abundance of

NATURAL RESOURCES IN OUR REGION

is remarkable and should be

APPRECIATED BY ALL.

miles in/out to enjoy the bayfront beach and fossil hunting; (4) and took the boat out on the Severn River at sunrise to catch striped bass and white perch.

Not touting here; just trying to impress the point that there’s magnificent opportunities within quick reach to experience nature and nurture one’s appreciation for all that we have. That is, if we continue to collaborate and make protecting these resources a priority. Please read what our riverkeepers have to say about what they’re seeing on the frontline—the shorelines if you will—and how we can help.

In about five weeks, you’ll have the opportunity to vote in leaders at the state and county levels who will shape environmental policy for the years ahead. The Gubernatorial election is upon us, and Maryland will have a new governor. Our political correspondent, Mark Croatti, has written the primer, “Prelude to the War for 2024,” on the candidates vying for your votes and what’s at stake in this November’s election—the results of which will have far-reaching implications in the national elections just two short years away.

If the political landscape has you—like me at times—wanting to scream into a pillow, let’s take a breather together and enjoy everything this season offers. Autumn weather is swooping in, Halloween events and harvest activities are gearing up, football and hockey are back, fireplaces see first flames, it’s “Rocktober” on the bay…I could on and on, but I think you get the point. And it’s all packed into this issue, along with the results of our biennial Top Dentists survey (get those cleanings and consultations in before the holidays!). Happy health and happy trails!

James Houck, Editorial Director