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November 21, 2024

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

5 News Notes

The Great Duck Hunt in Easton—Starting October 25th

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Get ready for a quacking adventure with The Great Duck Hunt! This October, explore Easton and hunt for rubber ducks hidden inside our downtown merchant stores. The event Runs until the Festival start, or until we run out of ducks. The duck finder receives a voucher for a free general admission pass to Waterfowl Festival 2024. 

How to Participate:

Search for Ducks: Visit participating locations and look for the hidden ducks. 

Snap & Share: Post your duck-hunting photos on social media with the hashtag #GreatDuckHuntEaston and tag @waterfowlfestival and the merchant where the duck* is found.

*only one duck per person

Join the fun, explore Easton, and see how many ducks you can find!

Happy hunting and see you around town! 

Here is a list of Merchants taking part! 

Curlicue the store, Trade Whims, Discover Easton, Windswept Clothiers, The Mercantile in Easton, Levity and Wit, Welcome Home,  Markets Marc Randall nee M. Randall & Co, Berrier LTD, Justamere Trading Post, Dragonfly, Easton Antiques, Sailor, The Trippe Gallery The Ivy Cafe, Lizzy Dee, Troika Gallery Levity and Wit,  La De Da The Avalon,  Dwelling & Design,  An Optical Galleria – Easton, Silver Linings, Storm & Daughters Ice Cream,  prim salon,  The Zebra Gallery,  Vintage Books and Fine Art,  Studio B Art Gallery.

 

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Brempton 1860: A Chat With David and Hilari Rinehart

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After a succession of relaxing vacations at the Brampton Inn just outside of Chestertown, David and Hilari Rinehart realized their love for the place could translate into the next chapter in their lives.

As luck would have it, the famous Inn, established by former innkeeper Danielle Hanscom Thode and her late husband Michael Hanscom in 1987, became available for sale. The Rineharts took ownership of the award-winning Inn in August 2020.

Four years into it, the Rineharts say that their experience as newly minted innkeepers exceeds their expectations and continues to be a source of delight—and hard work—as they open the doors to guests new and old seeking a relaxed and refreshing break from the fast pace of life.

Rebranded as Brampton 1860, the 35-acre property is steeped in history, with roots in the 18th century as a fruit plantation. In fact, one of David Rinehart’s favorite roles is as the Inn historian, and he can convey in detail the context of the property’s history and life on the Eastern Shore at that time.

Former residents of Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, the Rineharts appreciate historical sites, buildings, and events and have made  Brampton 1860 their home, both as hosts to vacationers and as curators of the 35-acre historical property.

But guests are not limited to the pastoral surroundings of the Inn. The Rineharts have made extensive inroads with Chestertown businesses to offer special events open to the community.

Along with their popular open-air  “Dining Under the Stars” culinary evenings, the Rineharts will host a special Oktoberfest celebration on Sunday, October 6. The event will showcase a German-style band, hayrides, lots of food and local wine, and offerings by local artisans.

The Spy recently talked with the Rineharts about their last four years as Innkeepers at one of the most charming properties on the Eastern Shore, how they’ve developed a relationship with Chestertown businesses and how they want to make guests experience the same serenity and joy they felt as guests.

“We want to make guests feel so good about their stay that they make their next reservations before they leave,” say Hilari Rinehart.

For more about Brampton 1860, please go here.

This video is approximately six minutes in length.

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Sons of Union Veterans to Honor African American Soldiers in Memorial Service in Unionville

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The Sons of Union Veterans invites the community to a memorial service honoring the legacy of eighteen African American soldiers from the U.S. Colored Troops (USCT), who are interred at St. Stephens Church cemetery in Unionville, MD. The service is scheduled for May 19th, 2024, at 12 PM.

These valiant men, some of whom were former slaves and others free, volunteered to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Their bravery and sacrifices are a vital part of our history, and we aim to honor their contributions through this event.

For additional details about the event or any media inquiries, please contact Dan Cowgill Phone: 302-545-6362 or George Balog at [email protected]

 

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Oxford’s Norm Bell Announces Candidacy for Town Commissioner

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Oxford resident Norm Bell has announced his candidacy for Commissioner of that historic town.

The 12-year resident of Oxford pledges openness and inclusion in town affairs. His immediate priorities are to address the rising water challenges, upgrade the water system, integrate new staff members into day-to-day town operations, and ensure strong communications among staff, residents and the three commissioners.

“I believe in the citizens of Oxford and their ability to work together to face challenges.” Norm said, “I am familiar with the issues from my work in the community and will bring my professional and volunteer experiences to facilitate solutions.”

Norm has the commitment, experience, and demonstrated record needed to lead the community. He currently serves as Chairman of the Oxford Planning Commission and President of the Oxford Community Center. His other volunteer roles include Chair of the Oxford Ad Hoc Policy and Procedures Committee and member of the Oxford Sea Level Rise Steering Committee. A chemical engineer by training, Norm spent his career at DuPont. He will focus efficiently on providing for the safety, health, and welfare of Oxford’s citizens. He has also found time to serve as a member and officer of the Temple B’nai Israel Board of Directors and serves as a Director of the Chesapeake Forum Board.

As an Oxfordian for the past 12 years, Norm considers Oxford and the surrounding landscape the ideal subject for his award-winning photography. He has appeared regularly in juried fine arts shows. He and Paula, his wife of 57 years, enjoy life with BeBe their Pomeranian. They have two sons and two grandchildren.

Norm will dedicate himself to serving Oxford as a commissioner who will involve the entire community to successfully manage the changes required to move Oxford forward while maintaining the traditional, classic greatness of this historic town.

For more specifics, see his campaign web page here: https://trombone-squid-yzkl.squarespace.com/about-norm and plan to attend the Announcement Rally on Sunday, April 20th, from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at Miss Jenny’s Church on S. Morris and South Streets.

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New Locally Produced Programs on Delmarva Radio

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Salisbury University students Mike Greco and Rosalie Crosby
producing the 5-Minute Fly-by Newscast

Delmarva Public Media is introducing new locally-produced programs for its lunch hour, including the 5-Minute Fly-By newscast produced weekly by Salisbury University students. The Locally Produced Lunch airs Monday-Friday from noon-1:00 p.m. starting April 1st on WSDL 90.7.

Starting Monday, April 1st, Delmarva Public Media introduces the 5-Minute Fly-By local newscast followed by the MPT Radio Hour. The newscast is reported, written and produced by Salisbury University students in Delmarva Public Media’s new student newsroom. The MPT Radio Hour includes two regional programs from Maryland Public Television. Direct Connection is a local public affairs program focusing on personalities from all arenas. State Circle provides up-to-the-minute, in-depth analysis of major issues and pending bills at the Maryland State Legislature. Both are hosted by Jeff Salkin.

On Tuesdays it’s Fusion Fever with host Riley Smith. Smith, a recent Salisbury University graduate, focuses on the growing genre of jazz fusion and explores how jazz continues to evolve and excite listeners and musicians. Smith is a musician himself who discovered jazz one semester at Salisbury University by taking a jazz theory course and playing guitar in the Salisbury jazz band. That “snowballed from a curiosity to a passion,” said Smith. And that passion is evident in every show.

On Wednesday hear Back to the Roots hosted by Ralph Hickman. Back to the Roots is an eclectic mix of classic and modern roots music from new and legendary artists featuring deep cuts to fan favorites.

These programs join station-produced staples On the Download (Thursdays at noon) and the award-winning Delmarva Today (Fridays at noon).

“These exciting additions show our commitment to developing strong and interesting local programming and to working with students and helping to train the journalists, producers and media personalities of the future”, said Bryan Russo, Delmarva Public Media’s Director of Production and Operations. “The Locally Produced Lunch hour on WSDL is just a glimpse at where things are headed and what our listeners can expect for the future.”

All programs are available via broadcast, online at delmarvapublicmedia.org and streaming on your favorite device. For more information and schedules go to delmarvapublicmedia.org.

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Local Advocacy Groups to Celebrate National Trails Day

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Mark your calendars for Celebrate Trails Day 2024 on April 27, 2024! Hosted annually on the fourth Saturday of April, this spring celebration envisioned by the Rails to Trails Conservancy (RTC) invites everyone to embrace America’s remarkable trails and trail systems. Organizations throughout the Eastern Shore will be hosting several events to honor and appreciate trails’ invaluable role in our lives and communities.

Trails are essential for offering chances for exploration, adventure, and discovery, inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to go on memorable adventures in the outdoors. These benefits range from encouraging physical activity and mental well-being to fostering connections with nature and facilitating economic development.

As part of Celebrate Trails Day in the Talbot County area, Talbot Thrive, a non-profit dedicated to promoting healthy and safe outdoor mobility for everyone living, working, and visiting Talbot County will be hosting a guided walk on the proposed path of the Oxford Connector Trail at 2 p.m. as part of Oxford Day. Participants can meet in the parking lot in front of the tennis courts.

In addition to celebrating existing trails, efforts are underway to expand and enhance trail infrastructure on the Eastern Shore. A group led by the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (ESLC) in Easton, MD is spearheading plans to create a comprehensive regional trail network connecting communities and highlighting the region’s natural and cultural assets.

In addition, a new trail map has been developed by the Eastern Shore Regional GIS Cooperative with support from the Rural Maryland Council. It provides detailed information about trail locations, amenities, and points of interest, making it easier for residents and visitors alike to plan their outdoor adventures.

Whether it’s a guided hike, a trail cleanup initiative, or a family-friendly nature walk, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact in your community on Celebrate Trails Day and throughout the year. Visit https://www.eslc.org/celebratetrails/ to learn about all the trail events on April 27 and join in celebrating the beauty and significance of our local trails.

To learn more about the ongoing efforts to advocate for more trails on the Eastern Shore, visit https://www.eslc.org/towns/eastern-shore-regional-trail-vision/. Learn more at RailsToTrails.Org/CelebrateTrails Explore the trail map at https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/413da86ab8f94d8e801ca66df4787a1f

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Maryland Society Tench Tilghman Chapter Seeks Funds for Vets’ Music Therapy

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Conway Gregory providing Andrew Parsley of CAR Biography of Andrew Jackson

On Saturday March 2, 2024, Andrew Parsley, age 16, President of the Maryland State Society of the Children of the American Revolution (MSSCAR) spoke about the work and contributions of the C.AR during a meeting of the Colonel Tench Tilghman Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) in Chestertown, Maryland.

Andrew gave a brief presentation about the C.A.R and his 2024 service project titled “Play It Loud” that supports the Warrior Music Foundation, and provides music therapy to veterans, active duty military and emergency service providers-and their families.  Research has shown that music theraphy helps veterans heal from post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and reduces the likely hood of veteran suicide. Andrew raised $250 in donations during his visit with the Colonel Tench Tilghman Chapter of the SAR toward reaching his $10,000 goal which will be donated to the Warrior Music Foundation that provides 12 weeks of free music lessons to veterans.

During the meeting with the SAR, Andrew played the first notes of 10 patriotic tunes on his trumpet and the first meeting participant to guess each of the tunes won a prize. Andrew often plays his trumpet when requested by the VFW during veteran funerals, VFW events, and wreath laying ceremonies.

Afterwards, Colonel Tench Tilghman Chapter President, Conway Gregory, presented Andrew with checks totaling $250 and a copy of the biography of President Andrew Jackson.

If you would like to help Andrew reach his $10,000 goal of providing free music lessons to veterans, you can mail a check payable to MSSCAR to David Schenck, Maryland CAR Treasurer, 1502 Providence Road, Towson, Maryland, 21286.

The next meeting of the Colonel Tench Tilghman will occur on Saturday April 13, 2024 in Chestertown, Maryland.  Prospective members are welcome to attend.  The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR), founded in 1889, is a non-profit and non-partisan organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American History, and promoting education to our future generations.

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Studio B Art Gallery set to Unveil ‘Postcards from Italy’ with Bernie Dellario

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Angel Bridge by Bernard Dellario

Studio B Art Gallery is thrilled to announce its upcoming spring exhibition, “Postcards from Italy,” featuring the captivating works of acclaimed artist Bernie Dellario. The exhibition will run throughout the month of March, with an exclusive showcase during the First Friday Gallery Walk event on March 1, 5-8 p.m.

Dellario’s latest collection promises to transport viewers to the picturesque landscapes and charming towns of Italy, inspired by his travels. This exceptional showcase will feature 40 paintings created during Dellario’s immersive five-week journey through the Italian countryside in the fall of 2023.

Dellario’s artistic voyage began with two weeklong painting workshops, commencing in the scenic region of Umbria and culminating in the cultural hub of Florence. Along the way, he traversed a rich tapestry of Italian locales, from the historic streets of Rome to the enchanting hillside towns of Gubbio and Perugia. Each painting in the collection serves as a visual postcard, capturing the essence and allure of its respective setting.

“It was an extraordinary experience as I immersed myself into plein air painting and the Italian lifestyle,” reflects Dellario. “These paintings reveal my subject, process, and a short story about each location. Some were demonstrations during my painting workshops, and others created while on the road in between. It was an unforgettable experience, and I am very happy to share it with you.”

In a nod to Studio B Art Gallery’s longstanding support of artistic endeavors, the exhibition will also feature two paintings from each participant of the 2023 Tuscany workshop sponsored by the gallery. This inclusion adds a collaborative dimension to the showcase, celebrating the collective creativity fostered by Studio B Art Gallery’s initiatives.

“We are proud to present ‘Postcards from Italy,’ an exhibition that encapsulates the spirit of artistic exploration and cultural immersion,” said Studio B Art Gallery owner Betty Huang. “Bernie Dellario’s profound connection with Italy shines through in every brushstroke, inviting viewers on a visual odyssey through the heart of this timeless land.”

“Postcards from Italy” promises to be a highlight of the cultural calendar, offering art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Italy through the eyes of a masterful artist. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this captivating journey at Studio B Art Gallery throughout the month of March.

Studio B Art Gallery is located at 7 B Goldsborough Street in historic downtown Easton, Maryland. The gallery represents nationally and internationally known painters Hiu Lai Chong, Bernard Dellario, Ken DeWaard, Betty Huang, Qiang Huang, Charles Newman, Daniel Robbins, Master Jove Wang, and sculptor Rick Casali.

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Friends of Hospice Donates Proceeds

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After a culmination of a year’s planning, the 38th annual Festival of Trees supported by Friends of Hospice successfully raised $80,000 to donate to Talbot Hospice Foundation. Each November, Festival of Trees has been hosted in Easton since 1985.

The event is a celebration of life for those who have received Hospice care during the past year. It is made possible by the generous financial contributions from local individuals and businesses, along with an army of volunteers.

“Once again, Friends of Talbot Hospice has helped us advance our mission of service to the community through this generous donation,” said Molly Kirsch, BSN, RN, Talbot Hospice Executive Director. “The Festival of Trees event is such a fun and wonderful way to allow the community to enjoy the holidays while supporting a great cause. We give a huge ‘thank you’ to all of the volunteers, organizations and especially the festival leadership involved.”

Planning is already underway for 2024. For more information on how to participate with the Festival of Trees, contact Chairman Karla Wieland-Cherry at 410-310-8421. For more information on Talbot Hospice services, call 410-822-6681.

Attending the check presentation were Wes Williams (left) Dana McGrath, Colby Hall, Randy Decker, Jennifer Latham, Dorri Gowe-Lambert, Joanne Newmier, Brenda Forbes-Butler, Pat Harvey, Dale Jafari, Dawn Ruby (front, left), Molly Kirsch, Karla Wieland-Cherry, and Midge Menzies. Volunteers unavailable for the photograph included Leslie Ware, David Cherry, Beverly Williams, Sarah Harris, Randy Bachand, Maire McArdle, Alisha Saulsbury, Patricia Weise, Avonda Rounds, Katie Brewer, Rebecca Saduk, Susan Clifford, Leah Copper, Julie Andrew, Kari Diefenderfer, Brenda Andrew, Allison Satchell, Jonathan Moore, Summer Moore, Catherine Carouge, Jessica Hurley, Casey Rauch, Carol Harrison and Morgan Harvey.

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Letter to Editor: Praise for “Rethinking Poverty.”

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I recently saw the video presented at the Kent County Library by John Queen, Fr. Henry Sabetti and Carol Niemand. “Rethinking Poverty” is available on YouTube at H.O.Y.A.S. Empath presents: “Rethinking Poverty”.  The Bayside H.O.Y.A.S. leader John Queen and the Shrewsbury Church team of Fr. Sabetti and Carol Niemand have joined  forces to address the needs of those in Kent County who are so poor that they need help.

People of any background can become poor.  They can be well educated or not.  They can be any age.  The facts are that the overall rate of poverty in this county is 60% and the percent poverty of the public high school population is 70% ! Much of the remaining population is retired and therefor on fixed income.

Examples include one of the persons they are helping has a college degree and had a good job.  He fell to alcohol and poverty.  If taxes go up, even a working person may not be able to afford to pay them.  When they don’t pay, they loose their home and their credit rating. Harder to watch was the 14 year old girl with younger brothers who had moved to Kent County.  The head of household was their mother who had a job and payed the bills.  However, she died and the kids were now profoundly poor.  Also, as a minor child, the girl could not get official identification.  Those facts blocked their hopes.  The girl couldn’t care for herself or her brothers financially or in any other manner.  And she didn’t know how to work the system so she couldn’t get all the help that was available to her family. John, et. al. have helped and the family is now in good circumstances.  These are some of the smaller items on John’s “boots on the ground” to-do list.

His bigger level of things to do is to list all those who can help, get them in a reasonable order and get the needy started on the route to support.  There are pieces that can be contributed by the federal, state and local government.  There are also multiple private organizations and individuals who already lend a hand.  Some of the churches open their public space to shelter folks in need. The police and warden have ways to help.  There is at least one motel that can be used by people in transition until more permeant housing becomes available.  There needs to be better and more reliable public transportation and restrooms for obvious reasons.

During the showing, the Library room was full of  persons in charge of many of these services. Many had no idea how profound the problems are.  To be really helpful, all the services have to work together and work in a particular order.  It is a monumental job to set a program that is flexible enough to meet the needs of each person who asks for help and also strong enough to cover all bases so as to be effective.

The alcoholic is not going to give up alcohol.  That doesn’t mean he should freeze to death or starve to death.  Many people would gladly work if there were jobs in Kent County.  What we need is something like the commercial lot that is zoned in the north of the county on Route 301.  It could hold a distribution center or two and the gas station and restaurants that the employees of the center would need.  It would also be useful for travelers on #301 and bring revenue to the county.  The commercial zone was placed on a main road at the edge of the county so as to not be disruptive to the ambiance of the rural nature of Kent County.  This is the sort of business we need to give many the source of employment they need.

The tax revenue might cover the increase in property taxes coming to pay for the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, which is currently in its first year. This is important because the state of Maryland has determined our required assessment as if each and every person owns one of the lovely and large houses on the waterways of this peninsula.  The statistics cited above show that to be false. The proposed tax will go up as much as 100% in the next 9 years.

So, thank the good Lord for John Queen (The Bayside H.O.Y.A.S.) and Shrewsbury Church for taking on the immense task of organizing the various sources of aid to our massive population in need. Anyone who needs help, I suggest you contact John Queen’s organization.

Needless to say, I have a new set of heroes.


Holly Geddes

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