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December 9, 2023

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

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Arts Arts Portal Lead Spy Highlights Spy Top Story

CBMM Becomes More Welcoming: Celebrating a New Welcome Center in St. Michaels

November 29, 2023 by Val Cavalheri Leave a Comment

After years of planning (and generous philanthropic contributions), the building is ready for the ribbon-cutting celebration that will take place this Saturday. The Center, which broke ground in the summer of 2022, marked the beginning of a project to transform the museum’s campus to include the Museum Store and three exhibition spaces in this sleek and modern structure. With a soft opening last month, the building has already played a pivotal role in CBMM’s fall festivals, with much more to come.

The Spy met with Exhibition Designer Jim Koerner, VP of Engagement Shannon Mitchell, and Director of Curatorial Affairs and Exhibitions Jen Dolde to discuss some of the innovations and historical aspects of this new space and the festivities planned for this weekend.

Built on the Fogg’s Landing side of campus, the structure is strategically attached to a parking lot. “Previously, when you visited, it would be pretty challenging to find where to go, to enter the museum,” Mitchell said. The Welcome Center addresses this concern, providing a seamless transition for visitors right off the parking lot. It also aligns with CBMM’s thematic storytelling approach, with the building being the opening chapter—the orientation. 

As guests enter the Welcome Center, they will step onto a floor map of the Chesapeake Bay and a third-order Fresnel lens (before the use of GPS, it led the mariner from one point to another along the coast.) This will “guide” visitors through the reception area to the exhibitions. Said Dolde, “Each of these exhibits is connected to the other, and we see them both as separate and as part of a whole.”  

The first one guests will come across is titled Navigating the Chesapeake’s Maritime Culture. Using CBMM’s oral history collection, photographs, and artifacts, it displays the Chesapeake as a maritime highway, habitat, and resource for the fisheries within a changing and constantly evolving community. 

Dolde spoke about how these themes serve as the foundation for the entire museum, guiding the reinterpretation of existing exhibitions and creating new ones. She also highlighted the importance of including diverse and underrepresented stories. “There’s tradition, there’s innovation, and there is the Chesapeake as a source of inspiration and identity.”

Walking further into the Center is perhaps the heart of this building. Called Water Lines: Chesapeake Watercraft Traditions, it showcases CBMM’s small craft collection. This exhibition unveils vessels that have been in long-term storage, some of them being shown for the first time. The boats are shown elevated and presented as the artistic pieces they are. 

Associated with each are panels that honor not only the craftsmanship but also the human stories behind these vessels. In one, you will see and read about the Marianne, originally a work boat converted for leisure use. Another boat and story is the Alverta, owned by a black Waterman on Kent Island, whose fortunes rose and fell with the oystering industry.

Said Koerner, “From an engagement standpoint, we’re setting a foundation. You’ll learn the stories and see the boats and the craftsmanship that goes into them. As you go through the museum, you’ll see an image of either that same boat or one similar to it and how it was used by the w waterman, fishermen, crabbers, or just the casual boater. You’ll have more of an understanding of how all these parts came together and how these things are built. It will be a richer experience for our visitors.”

He also emphasized the cultural value of these vessels, noting that as generations pass, preserving these stories becomes increasingly crucial. “We need to be able to hang on to these stories because those are all part of the fabric of our community,” he said.

Still to come is the Stories from the Shoreline, which will expand the current Waterfowling exhibition, delving into the ecology of the Bay and the experiences of those who have called the region home. Don’t miss the custom-designed glass case from Germany, which connects the various spaces within the Welcome Center and will hold more of the storytelling features.

Mitchell envisions the Center as the starting and ending point of a guest’s journey at CBMM. “On a typical day,” she said, “we’ll orient you to the campus and give you an overview of what’s happening. Perhaps give you some recommendations on what to see and do that day.” It’s a curated journey, ensuring guests leave with a sense of maritime history and a comprehensive understanding of CBMM’s offerings. 

Which is why the Museum Store is such an integral part of the Welcome Center, an opportunity to expand and take home some of the experience. It will offer unique merchandise with coastal, nautical, and regional themes. It is an engaging atmosphere with its stylized ceiling tiles, a historic photo of Crisfield’s Horsey Brothers Department Store, and exhibit vessels.

—–

CBMM invites everyone to the free Welcome Center Grand Opening celebration from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, December 2nd.

Some highlights include a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 am, after which the “Winter on the Chesapeake” festival will officially begin. It features presentations, hands-on activities, campus tours, and live music for visitors of all ages.

Headlining the entertainment at 11:30 am is renowned jazz saxophonist (and St. Michaels native) Anthony “Turk” Cannon. The festival will also offer unique demonstrations, including an invasive species cooking demo (?) by Chef Zack Mills of Baltimore’s True Chesapeake Oyster Co. and a scrapple-making demo (!) by butchers from The Village Shoppe in St. Michaels.

There will also be a variety of food items and beverages, including festive cocktails for guests to enjoy. Although the event is free, guests are encouraged to get more information and RSVP at cbmm.org/WelcomeCenterGrandOpening.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Arts Portal Lead, Spy Highlights, Spy Top Story

Holiday Marketplace is Back with 30+ Artists

November 28, 2023 by Val Cavalheri Leave a Comment

The highly anticipated Holiday Marketplace is returning to Easton’s Waterfowl Building after a three-year hiatus, December 1st-3rd. The event, perfectly timed for the holiday shopping season, will feature over 30 artists and makers selling their wares.

Whitney Elliott

But the idea for a place that could host a group of talented artists began many years ago, when renowned mosaic artist Jen Wagner closed her St. Michaels store and found herself missing the creative process of running a gallery and creating events, something she had done over the past twenty years. “I love the challenge of putting together fun, interesting exhibits and events that benefit the community,” she said. When the Waterfowl Building became available for rent, she saw it as the perfect venue and opportunity to manifest her vision. The holiday artist market was held for a couple of seasons and likely would have continued its run if not for the pandemic and her husband’s illness. 

And now it’s back!

Helping to spearhead the event are co-organizers Lisa Pierson, a designer of hand-crafted jewelry, and Josepha Price, a visual artist who uses a range of mediums. Price is no stranger to curating artists, having organized and run the successful summer Easton Arts District Culture Crossing along the Easton rails-to-trails for a couple of years. 

When word got around that the Holiday Marketplace was on again, the response was overwhelmingly positive. “We heard from people who said they bought all their Christmas gifts there in 2019,” said Price. “Everything that they were looking for, they found. What made us happy was hearing that people were finding things they weren’t looking for, but once they saw it, they knew it was right. “

The three hand-selected a diverse array of artists and makers, intentionally showcasing a wide variety of mediums, artistic styles, and price points that would appeal to all tastes and budgets.

“Creating this year’s artist and vendor lineup was an exciting challenge,” said Wagner. “We have some artists coming from DC and Baltimore, people you may not have seen before bringing art that’s new to the area. We also have some favorites from previous years. It’s a great mix and not the same thing you see every year.” Found at the event will be toymakers, sculptors, soap makers, woodworkers, jewelry designers, ceramic artists, photographers, hand-cut puzzle maker (using your image), etc. season.” 

Some highlighted artists to watch include:

“Sculptor Carol Newmyer

is nationally acclaimed for her figurative bronze sculptures and wearable art over the past 45 years. Her pieces aim to show balance, harmony, and connection emerging from tension and stress.

Buzz Bulsby is a self-taught Jamaican-American artist based in DC whose vibrant, emotional abstract paintings draw influence from famed 20th-century expressionists.

Fiber artist Whitney Elliott of Double Rainbow Design finds inspiration from nature and crystals. She opened her art business in 2019 after experiencing personal hardships, using her craft as an outlet for healing.”

 “We thought a lot about what will make people excited and happy when they come in. What will they find interesting,” said Wagner. “Added Price, “That’s the thing. Everybody grows from the experience; you learn something, and you experience something new. And it’s not just from the people participating. It’s everybody that comes to the event.”

Not only is the range of offerings remarkable but so too is the timing. “In years past, we have had multiple holiday shows going on around this time,” said Price. “This year, we seem to be the only one open for the holiday.”

Being the only gathering of this sort allows the organizers to not only offer a platform for artists and vendors but also to create a space for the community to come together–to connect with artists, find some unique gifts, support small businesses, and catch the holiday spirit. (We were also told to watch for surprises, including a five-foot-something 3D rabbit!)

Additionally, an important part of the event was weaving in opportunities for local nonprofits like the Chesapeake Resource Multicultural Center and Easton Elementary Schools (to name a couple). “It gives these groups a chance to fundraise, spread awareness, and be visible to people they might not usually reach,” said Wagner.

“I missed seeing everybody, said Wagner. I missed the artists, and I missed talking and planning with Josepha and Lisa. Besides, it’s just fun. It’s fun to dream and make it happen.”

Things kick off on opening night, Friday, December 1st, from 4 pm to 9 pm, with a festive party featuring The Paddy O’Players, a Celtic band, wine from Triplecreek, beer from Ten Eyck Brewery, and rum tasting by Lyon Distillery. The Ivy Café will also provide food. Some of the proceeds from food and beverage sales will benefit local organizations. Also, the drawings for Easton Moonlight Madness shopping prize packs will take place that evening. 

The market continues Saturday, December 2nd, from 10 am to 5 pm, right before Easton’s annual Holiday Parade. It wraps up Sunday, December 3rd, from 10 am to 3 pm. Carolers will be on hand throughout the weekend, getting people in the holiday spirit.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Brevities

Creating Space for Dialogue: Adam Himoff’s Frederick Douglass Mural 

November 15, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

Last week, Easton  saw the unveiling of a 21×16 foot mural of Frederick Douglass. It was created by Park City, Utah-based artist Adam Himoff, whose hope is that the modern rendition of the famous abolitionist will stimulate timely conversations about race, justice, and Douglass’s enduring connection to the Eastern Shore region.

Located next door to the Out of the Fire Restaurant on Washington Street, the project was conceived by Richard Marks and Amy Haines with support from Talbot Arts and Dock Street Foundation. “In 2016, my wife, Amy (owner of Out of the Fire), and I purchased a property on Washington Street in Easton,” said Marks. “Since we love art and particularly enjoy seeing how art displayed publicly integrates with the surrounding community, we recognized the brick wall facing south would be an excellent place for a mural.”

Also in a contemplative state was Himoff. He’d decided to close his finance firm to concentrate on his work as a linocut artist. In this printmaking technique, a design is carved on a linoleum block, from which prints can be made. To critical acclaim, Himoff had been creating colorful representational images of iconic figures (such as Mick Jagger and Andy Warhol) but began to wonder how he could bring historical figures into modern times. One of the people who came to mind was Douglass. As an undergraduate English literature major, he had been impacted by the biographies and speeches written by the abolitionist. 

Modernizing Douglass juxtaposed against the backdrop of contemporary issues felt like a compelling creative challenge for the artist. “I wanted to capture his essence, but not necessarily the literal details of his life,” Himoff said. “What was available to me was his expression–seriousness, courage, fearlessness, and confidence. Then I created these other elements–he’s in the suit, crouched down, wearing Converse shoes and a nice watch.” Also, unlike his previous work, this was created in black and white. This depiction of a contemporary Douglass, Himoff felt, would allow the viewer to imagine Douglass’s role and life if he were alive today and wonder how his influence would impact the current struggle for justice and equality. 

Himoff knew it was the right person at the right time, yet once completed, he wasn’t sure who would be interested in the project beyond his immediate network of friends and family. So, he shared it on social media. Almost immediately, he heard from an African-American music teacher. “She said she loved it and asked if she could share it on her Instagram feed. Within a short time, people in her network reacted. And the feedback was very validating.” 

Then, someone who knew someone who knew Marks shared it with him. Seeing the image inspired Marks to commit to the project and the artist.

But before it became a mural, an art consultant, who also found the image on social media, reached out to Himoff. The ACLU in New York City wanted one of the original 40 print editions for their headquarters. The same image is now part of the ACLU permanent collection.

Of course, Easton is also the perfect location for such an impactful public art piece and as discussions began around bringing the project here, Himoff started revisiting more of Douglass’s biographies and exploring the more profound history and connection to the area. The artist was moved by what he learned. “I get the sense of responsibility that people feel this need to maintain his legacy,” he said. 

The revealing of the mural along Easton’s historic architecture has certainly sparked reaction and discussion, just as the artist anticipated. Himoff has received positive feedback from many in the black community who felt a connection to this contemporary portrayal of a legendary leader. This was the case the Spy observed as we waited for the artist to join us for the interview. 

A woman named Lisa Taylor walked into the building looking for more information. She is from DC and was in town for the Waterfowl Festival. Her husband had seen the mural the night before and had been touched by it, and since Taylor’s mother attended the Frederick Douglass High School in Elm City, North Carolina, he knew it would be of great interest to her as well. Taylor took several pictures, bought a poster and t-shirt (merchandise is available for sale with proceeds to benefit the Frederick Douglass Honor Society scholarship fund) and then said:

“So the story in this mural is about how the then transforms into the now. And an artist brought it all together today so that young people can say, ‘Okay, well, maybe I don’t know who this guy is, but he sure as hell is cool–with the watch and the Converse high-top sneakers. Let me pull out my phone and find out who this dude is.’ When they do that, it brings previous generations to today’s generation. Hopefully, it gets people thinking about what liberty means. So it’s like a rediscovery of him and his legacy from older people like me to young folks who would recognize the shoes and the watch. And the artist, Adam, yeah, he literally knocked it out of the park.”

Not that there haven’t also been disagreements and uncertainty about Douglass being depicted in a modern style. But Himoff welcomes these discussions as part of Douglass’s legacy of free speech and empowering marginalized voices. “Frederick Douglass would believe that that is an important and healing conversation to have,” he said. 

Ultimately, the power of public art is bringing people together for dialogue and change. It is something that Himoff hopes to inspire through his creative work as he takes on more public art projects. Said Himoff, “I think it transforms communities, transforms neighborhoods. You’re not just creating something for somebody’s living room; it’s something that is eliciting a reaction. I love that dynamic; I love this notion of just creating a conversation about important issues.” 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Arts Portal Lead, Arts Lead, Spy Top Story

Discover the Mysterious Creatures of the Deep Sea at the St. Michaels Library with Horn Point’s Andrew Thaler

October 25, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

Perfectly timed for the season is an otherworldly exhibition found in of all places at the St. Michaels Library. Dr. Andrew Thaler, a deep-sea ecologist and adjunct faculty at the University of Maryland Horn Point Lab, has assembled a miniature museum of bizarre sea creatures from the deep sea’s dark abyss. 

On Monday, November 6th, at noon, Dr. Thaler will present a special Lunch & Learn lecture at the library, discussing these lifeforms. Having spent over 20 years researching deep-sea ecosystems, Thaler has countless fascinating stories to share. Attendees will learn how technological innovations are rapidly expanding our access to one of the planet’s last unexplored frontiers, and they’ll discover just how much wonder and mystery still lurk in the unseen majority of our world.

Currently, Thaler runs a small environmental consulting firm in St. Michaels focused on deep-sea policy and conservation technology. But his passion for the abyss began decades earlier as a child, the first in his family to express interest in marine biology. “I’ve always been interested in studying deep-sea hydrothermal vents,” he says. “They’re unlike anything else on Earth – these oases of life dependent not on sunlight but on chemical energy gushing from undersea hot springs.”

When pursuing his Ph.D. at Duke University, Thaler specialized in researching the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining, a burgeoning industry poised to tap into valuable seabed resources. For his graduate work, he traveled to a series of hydrothermal vents off Papua New Guinea, racing to catalog species and gather ecological data before miners could disrupt the pristine sites. “The good news is, the company ended up going bankrupt,” Thaler said. “So the vents I studied were never actually mined. But it was an amazing opportunity to explore this incredible environment before any harm was done.”

Now, as a researcher and advocate, Thaler continues working to develop frameworks that allow us to study and harness the deep sea’s potential resources while safeguarding its fragile ecosystems.

The specimens currently on display at the St. Michaels library come from the archives of Thaler’s mentor, legendary deep-sea ecologist Dr. Cindy Van Dover, the first woman to pilot the DSV (deep submergence vehicle) Alvin. Van Dover retired in 2019, and Thaler inherited her samples to continue the research she had begun. “Once you’ve collected something from the deep sea,” he said, “we have a moral duty to get as much knowledge as possible out of it. So that the impact of taking it from the deep sea isn’t lost, and we get the opportunity to learn something.” 

Thaler curated the best of the samples into an educational mini museum – including the current star attraction, a giant deep-sea isopod.

Resembling a massive roly-poly or pillbug, this alien arthropod found deep in the Gulf of Mexico grows as big as a housecat, obviously dwarfing its terrestrial cousins. Thaler says the oddity appears to have become a destination for local curious kids, though some squeamish adults find it disturbingly huge and eerie. If that’s not mind-bending enough, there are also monstrous giant tubeworms, blind albino shrimp, scale worms that survive in near-boiling water, glass sponges, squat lobsters, and a menagerie of other creatures from the Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Margin, and Western Pacific. As Thaler will explain, each organism hints at the outrageous forms evolution can take given the right conditions.

Dr. Andrew Thaler

“There are some truly astounding animals down there,” says Thaler. “Some of the weirdest creatures you’ve ever laid eyes on.” Yet, as he explained, only a handful of researchers, let alone ordinary citizens, have ever glimpsed such organisms in their natural habitat. Historically, undersea exploration has lagged behind space investigation. “I used to joke that we have more robots on Mars than we have vehicles capable of exploring the deepest parts of the ocean,” he said.

But that has changed dramatically. Now, dozens of robotic and autonomous vehicles are capable of going into the bottom of the Mariana Trench. Besides the manned submersibles, live-streamed remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) allow shore-bound scientists virtual access to the seabed. 

Still, most of us earthlings will never voyage to the abyss themselves. That’s what makes the St. Michaels exhibit so unique. “I don’t know of any other place where you can see specimens like this, from the deep ocean, somewhere so accessible as a public library,” says Thaler. “It’s a real testament to the library that they want to showcase something unusual yet evocative.”

Thaler hopes the creatures spark curiosity and wonder in visitors, especially children. He aims to share his own passion for the planet’s least explored realm. “We all share this amazing world, with incredible places most of us will never see firsthand,” said Thaler. “Yet they can still inspire us in meaningful ways.”

As part of his current research, Thaler is investigating how microplastics accumulate in the bodies of deep-sea organisms – a threat to vulnerable ecosystems we’ve scarcely begun to understand. But while environmental realities must be faced, a sense of awe persists.”The deep ocean is incredibly biodiverse,” says Thaler. “There are some of the most astounding animals down there. It’s an opportunity to discover something new and incredible, unlike anywhere else.”

Don’t miss this rare chance to glimpse the mysteries of the deep at your local library. Dr. Andrew Thaler’s upcoming lecture will illuminate how researchers are unveiling the wonders of the seabed while the ongoing exhibition lets you come face-to-face with denizens of the abyss. There is much left to explore.

Dr. Andrew Thaler will be the guest speaker for the November Lunch & Learn series at the St. Michaels Branch on Monday, November 6th, at noon. The deep-sea mini museum is currently on display until November 30th.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Eco Lead, Eco Portal Lead

Experiencing Stage Fright at Stage Fright 1964 at the Avalon

October 24, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

If you were part of the magical experience of Stage Fright last year at the Avalon Theater, then you already know how much fun the Halloween special was. During the production, eye-masked (to differentiate them from the performers) audience members wandered through the minimally illuminated areas of the Avalon. Instead of sitting and watching from a distance, they became active participants in the world created by the play. Written by Casey Rauch and directed by Cecile (Cece)Storm, the drama was ingenious, atmospheric, and different from anything previously seen around the area.  

It also was an experiment. Would the Eastern Shore embrace immersive theater where the audience becomes part of the drama? 

The reaction was a resounding yes. So much so that the Avalon asked for a repeat performance, and that’s when Rauch and Storm decided to up the ante. Rauch had initially written a fictionalized feature-length screenplay based on his real-life experience with the ghost of the Avalon–Marguerite. The script had three distinct subplots–more material than could be fit into a 90-minute stage play. A decision was made to use one storyline set at the ‘Avalon Hotel’ in 1927. As they thought about this year, instead of doing the same production again, why not do the second storyline with the final installment next October? And that’s how Stage Fright 1964 was born—a standalone story and yet a sequel with elements from the first production. 

The Spy was invited to watch some of the production, and we can honestly say we can’t wait to see more. Set again at the ‘Avalon Hotel,’ this time, the site of a gala being held for presidential campaign candidate, Lyndon B. Johnson. Just as the camera crew is about to broadcast live, a series of unfortunate events begin to occur… (That’s about all we want to say so as not to take away from the experience you will have becoming part of the developing story).

What will happen is that for 90 minutes, scenes will unfold concurrently in multiple locations. No matter which scenes you witness or in what order, you’ll reunite with the entire audience for a spectacular finale. Storm’s advice–embrace the unexpected and have your own adventure, letting the magic of this production envelop you. It’s all so much fun. 

And it is as much fun for the crew and performers as well. Mary Ann Emerson is used to acting, but she’s having a blast being the Props Mistress for this production. “I love to geek out on the details of the exact period that we’re in. Last time, it was the 20s. This time, it’s 1964. So finding all those elements where the audience could open a drawer and inside the drawer are the exact right things from that era is so exciting. I love it.”

Emerson is just one of over 50 members of this Stage Fright. Which just goes to show how much this production has grown. “Last year,” said Storm, “we had three people show up for auditions. This year exceeded expectations; the turnout was amazing, and casting was a nightmare because of all the talent. I had Casey write three new characters to accommodate how many people showed up. It all worked out because something that I really wanted for this year was more extras in character to make the experience more immersive.”

Katie Bernstein Cox is not an extra and no stranger to the theater world on the Eastern Shore. “I’ve done theater my whole life. I have a degree in it. Being with this group is like working with like-minded creative people who are all invested in quality products. Everybody wants to put in the work to make it happen. It feels like I truly found my group, my people.”

As one of the singers, Cox is excited to bring her talent to the stage again. Similar to last year, audiences can look forward to the incredible music, which is such an essential part of the production. The first Stage Fright included songs that covered the rock band Radiohead but were done in the style of 1920s gypsy jazz. It was mesmerizing and memorable, guiding the mood of the play—this year is no different. “We’re covering Nirvana in the style of Phil Spector’s Wall of Sound and a new Nashville country kind of band (think Patsy Cline), that kind of vibe,” said Storm. It’s worth mentioning that 90% of the music will be performed live during the show.

By now, it should be evident that the magic begins and ends with the creative partnership of Storm and Rauch. Nicknamed Rodgers and Hammerstein by some of the cast members, the duo’s vision and artistic synergy is the driving force behind the production’s success.

“I don’t think anybody really knew what to expect last year,” said Rauch. “And that included Cece and myself. People who came out the first time were pleasantly surprised to see the level of detail we put into the show. Then there was the music. I heard over and over again that people were just in love with the music. All the different elements of the show were well received by everybody.”

Interestingly enough, Rauch’s day job is as an engineer. Writing allows him to express a different side of his creativity. He’s also an actor. “I like acting,” he said, but I love writing. I don’t like directing people. The last thing I want to do is be the boss.”

But that is where Storm excels. In addition to co-owning the ice cream shop Storm and Daughters next to the Avalon, Storm brings extensive theater knowledge and experience to this production. Beyond her background in acting and directing, she holds a degree in Contemporary Theatre and Film and has worked in immersive theater before; Storm is well-equipped to handle the unique creative demands of this show.

Expect surprises and guest appearances, including one by LBJ. Whether you were part of the Stage Fright spectacle last year or are jumping in for the first time, don’t miss this haunting performance.

——-

This production is a limited run of eight performances. Wednesday 10/25-Saturday 10/28, at 6:30 and 9:30 pm. Tickets are limited. Audiences are encouraged to come in Halloween costumes and comfortable footwear. The run time is 90 minutes with no intermission. For tickets and information, go to: https://avalonfoundation.org/event/stage-fright-1964

There is also a 2-hour Director’s Cut Special Performance on Sunday at 7:00. Ticket price includes hors d’oeuvres by Piazza, cocktails by Lyon Rum, and beer by Other Half Brewing.
A full Cash Bar will be available. For ticket and information, go to: https://www.avalonfoundation.org/event/stage-fright-1964-directors-cut

NOTE:  Content Warnings–This experience is based on the ghost stories of the Avalon and deals with themes of civil rights, racism, murder, and revenge, which some may find triggering. There will be dark spaces, loud noises, strobe, and haze, as well as dark areas and spaces that are small and confined. The choice of where to go and what to see is yours. If you feel uncomfortable, you can move to a new area. Talk to one of our stewards or take a breather in the Stoltz Listening Room. The bar can be noisy, so if you need a quiet space, please let a staff member know. For more details, email [email protected]

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Arts Lead, Arts Portal Lead

The Journey of Needle’s Eye Academy

September 6, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

Nicolle Moaney during Easton’s 51st Waterfowl Festival 

In April 2020, almost at the start of the pandemic, Jaelon Moaney, a recent political science graduate from Williams College in Massachusetts, asked a friend and former classmate, educator Nicolle Vittini Cabral, to help build a curriculum for an idea he had been developing. During his time in college, Jaelon had established a cohort program that had brought together high schoolers and Williams students to discuss, in small groups, a single book each semester. Since he was returning to the Eastern Shore, Jaelon thought a similar program could work in Talbot County.

He was right.

A Leadership Team was formed, comprised of the now-married Jaelon and Nicolle and joined by Jaelon’s sister Mikayla (Mika). They shared a dream – to spark a love of reading and civic participation in young people who rarely see themselves in textbooks. This vision became the heartbeat of Needle’s Eye Academy (NEA), which is described on their social media as a “multilingual, multinational means of unapologetic literary empowerment for the Black & Brown youth of MD’s Eastern Shore.”

In 2021, Cohort One launched as a virtual three-week summer experience for students of color entering ninth grade at Easton and St. Michaels High School. Their first book was a collection of short stories, Fresh Ink, edited by Lamar Giles. “We wanted to provide them an opportunity to engage with texts they might not otherwise have access to,” said Nicolle, Director of Academic Strategy. 

Cohort Two, which began this summer, evolved beyond its initial scope with an addition of social-emotional learning and community-building components, overseen by Mika, Director of Belonging and Impact. NEA also expanded the admissions to eighth, ninth, and tenth graders. “We’re trying to engage folks that wish they had an opportunity to participate in something like this, with the ultimate goal of boosting their appetite or even their enjoyment of being civically engaged,” said Jaelon. This engagement, Jaelon hopes, will extend to their immediate community and ultimately to Talbot County and beyond.

NEA recognized during the 2023 Light of Literacy Awards. l to r- Nicolle, Jaelon, and Mika Moaney

In this, Jaelon leads by example, and his dedication to the Eastern Shore community is palpable. As a 10th-generation Talbot County resident, he has an impressive curriculum vitae, which includes serving on the Talbot County Board of Education during his high school years, working as a Regional Director for US Senator Chris Van Hollen, and being appointed by Governor Moore to the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture.

With such a rich background, Jaelon does not rule out running for political office in the future, and his involvement with NEA might be a good breeding ground for that possibility–he truly cares about the people in his community. Elaborating on his approach as Director of Authentic Partnerships, he said: “We want anything that we’re building with another person, another family, another organization to be mutually beneficial, and ultimately, to uplift the people.” 

Like her brother, Mika is an Easton High School graduate and now a senior at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York City. She feels her experience coming from a small-town environment into a big city has prepared her for her involvement with NEA. “What drives my work at the Academy is making sure everybody feels seen, heard, and valued. And I think that drives my work in the community as well.”

After graduating from Williams College, Nicolle worked as an elementary school science teacher in DC. She lasted about two and a half years. “I was just so burned out. I knew I wanted to continue to make a change in education, but being in the classroom in the traditional way was not going to be sustainable for me in the long run. So now I work in teacher recruitment in DC, and l stay connected with the classroom by leading these cohorts.”

Despite their differences and similarities, the Leadership Team is deeply committed to those they have taken under their wing. And in that, they have a lot of support. Besides an impressive array of board members on their team, their partnerships have been the key to their success. Talbot County Public School (TCPS) has cooperated in recommending students to their program. As has the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center (ChesMRC), which helped expand the program to include multilingual cohorts. Victoria Gomez Lozano, Hispanic Outreach Coordinator for ChesMRC, found the program a great opportunity, particularly for those to whom English is a second language. Lozano also said the participating NEA scholar reported being enthusiastic about her experience. 

NEA is particularly grateful for the collaboration with Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM), which has given the students the opportunity to connect literary exploration with hands-on, real-world issues. Nicolle explained, “CBMM has allowed scholars to learn more about the rich maritime history right here in the Chesapeake region. They have also given us the ability to delve and make parallels into themes the scholars read, like climate change and community resilience, and then engage with resources from the museum to amplify their learning experience.” 

NEA believes that this unique approach, coming at a time when adolescents are in a critical phase of self-discovery, enables scholars to understand how literature directly relates to their lives and community, empowering them to use their distinct experiences and perspectives for positive change. The goal, said Jaelon, is to equip them with the tools and confidence to embrace their potential as change-makers. “We want scholars to believe that no matter what it is they believe in, what they want to fight for, that it is the power within them to be able to do so,” he said.

As NEA looks to the future, the Leadership Team has ambitious plans for expansion and scholar engagement. They foresee engaging more counties and year-round programming. “We’re also thinking about how we can incentivize participation and get scholars to say, ‘I’m going to participate in the Needle’s Eye Academy instead of trying out for the soccer team,’” Nicolle said.

Whatever the future may hold, the Moaneys are committed to ensuring that NEA remains a community of support and guidance for scholars. Mika said, “We want this to be a legacy, a resource for students, no matter where they are in their academic journeys and whether or not they go to college. We want to make sure that they always know they have people who are more than happy and willing to help, motivate, and give them mentorship and connections. And as a kid of color, that’s not always the case. This is not just for one summer. We want this to be for a lifetime.”

Coming up:

With September designated as International Literacy Month, NEA will be holding their 

inaugural fundraiser, ‘Coloring the Canon,’ on September 9, at the Harriet Tubman UGRR Visitor Center Pavilion from 2-3:30. The event is described as: “a ranger-led welcome followed by an afternoon of light refreshments, inspiring remarks from a Tidewater author of color and an opportunity to design your very own book cover art.” To learn more and register, go to: https://m-scf.networkforgood.com/…/58546-coloring-the…

On September 20, NEA is co-hosting a community dialogue, ‘Read the Room,’ with the Easton branch of the Talbot County Free Library.

Starting in September, the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture is launching a book drive in every county across the state. NEA will partner with Talbot County Free Library to support that initiative. 

Next year (date TBD), NEA will be a part of the Talbot Family Network Conversations on Race,

Look for NEA’s bookmarks at Black and Brown businesses, libraries, and bookstores. They will also be partnering with the Black Caucus of the Maryland Library Association on additional sets of commemorative bookmarks. 

—-

For more information about NEA and any of the upcoming events, go to: https://neaest2020.wixsite.com/maryland/about 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Spy Top Story, Chestertown Best

Qlarant Foundation Profiles: Rebuilding Together in Queen Anne’s County

August 22, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

In 1994, a group of concerned individuals in Queen Anne’s County recognized a pressing need within their community – homes in disrepair and families struggling to maintain them. This realization led to the current Rebuilding Together, a national non-profit organization dedicated to repairing homes, revitalizing communities, and rebuilding lives. Recently, the group received a $3,500 award from the Qlarant Foundation, a private non-profit organization focused on enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Maryland and the District of Columbia.

Larisa Thomas, President of Rebuilding Together of Queen Anne’s County (RTQAC), shares how this grant and the partnership with local businesses and organizations impact the lives of older adults, low-income, and disabled community members.

Originally known as ‘Christmas in April,’ Rebuilding Together was started by a group of volunteers in 1973 in Midland, Texas, who, on the last Saturday in April, gathered to help low-income homeowners who were struggling to repair and renovate their homes.  The beneficiaries were primarily the elderly and disabled, trying to make ends meet on fixed incomes. In 1988, the organization expanded to other cities and changed its name to reflect what had become a year-round effort. Today, Rebuilding Together has over 100 affiliates nationwide and has helped repair and renovate over 200,000 homes.  

The critical importance of the organization’s work cannot be overstated. Thomas shared a staggering statistic that highlights the urgent need for their services: “Nationwide, 76% of households served by Rebuilding Together have a resident over the age of 65, and 51% have a resident with a disability, many of which have mobility issues that make it difficult to remain safely at home. And that also tends to be true in Queen Anne’s county,” she said. She describes how the domino effect of neglect can escalate from a simple roof leak into damaged floors and compromised structures, adding to the financial burden of homeowners who are already struggling to make ends meet. 

(L-R) Jonathan Olsavsky, Project leader and board member Wendell Carr, Perry Bird (right) Sr. Director, Network Advancement for National Rebuilding Together.

At the heart of RTQAC is its Safe and Healthy Housing program. It follows eight principles that ensure homes are: dry, clean, safe, pest-free, contaminant-free, well-ventilated, maintained, and thermally controlled. They also use a detailed 25-point checklist to assess homes and fix potential issues that homeowners might not know about.

The best illustration of the impact of RTQAC’s work is through the stories of transformed lives. Thomas recounts an instance where grandparents were raising grandchildren in a home where the pipes were freezing in the wintertime. “We came in and made it safe for this grandmother who was doing her best just to make a difference in her grandkid’s lives.”  At another home, we fixed a leaky roof, plumbing that wasn’t working, and holes in the floor. These were all safety issues that need to be addressed.”

The process of identifying eligible homeowners for the free program involves a multi-faceted approach. Collaborations with local departments and agencies, such as the Department of Aging, ensure those in need are connected to available services. Word of mouth also plays a significant role. Once identified, applicants can either call or submit an online form. The organization also participates in community events and employs various outreach methods to spread awareness and attract volunteers.

Of course, volunteers are the backbone of this program. Those who work with RTQAC come from a variety of backgrounds. Some are retired professionals with experience in construction or home repair, while others are community members who simply want to give back. All volunteers receive training and support from the organization to ensure that repairs are completed safely and effectively. There is also funding available to do home repairs through contractors. Thomas said, “This is the new direction that Rebuilding Together can do, which allows us to have a bigger impact.”

Looking ahead, Thomas envisions a brighter future for RTQAC. More board members, an expanded volunteer network, increased community engagement, and sustained funding are on her radar. There are diverse sources of financial lifelines that power RTQAC’s efforts, including individual donations, government support, and grants from organizations such as the Qlarant Foundation. She envisions a self-sustaining organization, making an enduring difference in the lives of those they serve. “Our goal is to complete eight projects this year and then double that number to 16 next year,” she said. 

 

For more information and see how you can help Rebuilding Together Queen Anne’s County, please go here. For more information about the Qlarant Foundation, please go here.

 

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Spy Top Story, Spy Highlights

Mid-Shore Arts: Something a Little Off the Menu at OOTF

August 16, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

Gail Patterson is not a typical doctor, just as Out of the Fire is not your typical local restaurant. What these two have in common, though, is what makes them so unique. And it’s a pairing worth exploring.

First, the doctor: Patterson is a year away from retirement after a long and distinguished career as an anesthesiologist. Beyond her regular responsibilities, Patterson devoted more than two decades to volunteering in low- and middle-income countries, providing anesthesia and medical relief. Her global travels, undertaken alongside her profound commitment to her profession, led her to amass an impressive art collection, primarily focusing on Haitian and African pieces.

Gail Patterson

“There was war, poverty, and degradation all over the world,” she said. ‘But the opposite of that was not peace and contentment. It was creation. Art seemed to be the most hopeful and powerful – the opposite of soul-crushing.” 

It became something Patterson knew she wanted to share with others. 

Holly Jackson

In 2012, Patterson established her online gallery, Spiralis, and was accepted into prestigious art fairs such as Art Basel in Miami and the Outsider Art Fair in New York City (‘the’ premier fair dedicated to self-taught art). “I was very lucky,” she said about being selected so early on in her new endeavor. But running an art gallery while working 80+ hours a week in ORs soon became an overwhelming challenge. Although she continued to collect art, she temporarily put her gallery idea aside until it could be a full-time pursuit. 

With her retirement around the corner, Patterson is now ready.

As before, Spiralis focuses on Afro-Caribbean works and ‘outsider’ self-taught artists. “I’ve always felt that there’s something special about self-taught, honest art, without the confines and conventions of classical art teaching. It is just something that comes out of an artist’s soul and has to go into the world,” said Patterson.


Enter Out of the Fire, known for its wood-fired cuisine, fresh ingredients, curated wine list, and welcoming atmosphere. Its walls have also served as a canvas for local artists to exhibit their artwork and for diners to experience while enjoying their food. Patterson, a long-time customer of the establishment, had always appreciated the ever-changing art, which brought “new and vibrant energy to the restaurant.” 

It was restaurant owner Amy Haines who suggested a collaboration—given that Spiralis Gallery didn’t yet have space in Easton, how about doing something at Out of the Fire? Patterson invited Hines to view her collection, and that made it happen for both. “When I saw her art work, I was immediately taken by it and thought this could be really powerful,” Hines said, adding: “This is the first time I’ve hosted a gallery and have had art done by other than local artists.” 

The collaboration works. “Amy has been lovely and incredibly kind. She’s deeply supportive,” said Patterson.” And that support has extended to patrons of both art and the restaurant. Patterson was gratified and surprised at the sizable crowd attending the opening night of the Out of the Fire Spiralis exhibition, titled Things Fall Together. Word-of-mouth has further fueled interest since then.

Running through October 1st, the exhibition features works by Haitian artist Mireille Delice who incorporates sequins and beads in his designs; Haitian impressionist Desarmes; oil painter Gerard; Liberian artist Leslie Lumeh; ONEL (aka Lionel Paul), whose work is highlighted on the postcard; and others.

The display also showcases pieces by local creators represented by Patterson, including Holly Jackson, a young fiber artist who uses centuries-old embroidery techniques to address modern issues such as climate change and women’s rights. Their partnership surprised Jackson: “When you are self-taught and make something really different, the gallery route usually seems reserved for those with formal art school education. But with Gail’s selection of artists, there is a shared commonality that I can’t name, but it’s there. There is also a message that she wants to make it easier for me to continue to do exactly what I’ve been doing and it feels right.” 

But it is not only the artist whose lives Patterson wants to touch or change through the works she chooses for her gallery. “I want to be able to spark meaningful conversations through story-driven art,” she says. “You can love, hate, understand, or not get it at all, just so it starts a human conversation.” She also hopes to build connections with underserved groups in Easton, including the local Haitian population, by teaming up with Chesapeake Multicultural Center. “I would like to create some community where maybe none exists.” Lastly, she hopes the gallery can be a spiritual experience, echoing the sentiments expressed in a quote by Haitian artist Denis Smith (translated from Creole): “It’s not really me that travels the world. It’s my spirit through my artwork.”  

For now, these and other spirits can be seen either at Out of the Fire or on the Spiralis website. There you will also find some helpful features, including ‘View it in a Room,’ where you can visualize a piece you’re interested in above a bed or bench or an augmented reality function that allows you to project the art onto a wall in your home. And that’s important for Patterson, who emphasizes the sensory and organic nature of art appreciation: “Art is an experience that should bring joy and connection.”

Patterson is grateful that Easton, including the art community, has been receptive and welcoming, and she looks forward to bringing some new voices into the Easton art scene. She may be retiring from medicine, but her next chapter is just beginning.

Spiralis Gallery: https://spiralisgallery.com

Out of the Fire: 111 South Washington St., Easton, MD. https://www.outofthefire.com

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Spy Top Story, Spy Chats

Dream to Reality: How Daniel Meeks Built a Gaming Haven in Centreville

August 8, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

Since he was a child, Daniel Meeks was positive he’d one day own a game store. In fact, that’s what he told his parents the first time he stepped into one when he was only seven years old. ‘Don’t worry,’ they told him, ‘you’ll have plenty of time to find something better.’ But Meeks never let go of the dream, and gaming continued to be important to him as he grew up.  “It helped me communicate, make friends, and gave me an outlet to learn and grow,” he said.  Besides, there were no gaming stores around Centreville, and Meeks figured they could use one. 

Daniel Meeks – Owner Central Gaming Corps

And so it came to pass that Central Gaming Corps (CGC) became a reality for this 20-something-year-old entrepreneur. But it happened at an inopportune time–28 days before the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in widespread shutdowns. Meeks recalled, “It was definitely a blow to be told, ‘Hey, go ahead and close down’ right after starting.” Luckily, he still had some funds left from his business loan, which provided a small safety net.

The mandatory closure was difficult, but the unanticipated challenge also brought Meeks an unexpected benefit as he watched the community rallying around his store, supporting the new business. “We got phone calls every day,” he said, “asking if I had puzzles or games they could buy. I would happily take their order and drive to their homes to drop them off.” 

The store is everything Meeks, now 31 years old, wanted and yet totally different from what one expects from a gaming shop. That’s because, In a refreshing twist, they don’t sell anything electronic. “When people hear game stores, they immediately think of video games. But we literally encourage people to come and get unplugged.”

To help achieve that, CGC offers an extensive selection of traditional tabletop games, all set in an inviting retail space. So, whether someone is looking for board games, card games, party games, roleplaying, or war games, they will likely find it here. “We encourage people to come in, hang out, and discover something new that they’ve never seen or played before,” Meeks said.” 

In a move to lure gaming enthusiasts to his store, Meeks organizes frequent gaming events. He’s even hosted acclaimed voice actors, Steve Blum and Mary Elizabeth McGlynn. During her visit, McGlynn hailed CGC as ‘the best game store on the Eastern Shore.’ The Eastern Shore probably agrees. At a 24-hour sale event, he held last year, he had almost 200 people in line. This year he anticipates doubling that number.

With globenewswire.com estimating that the “global tabletop gaming industry will reach $12 billion by the end of 2023,” it is not surprising that CGC is seeing such a positive response. The popularity of gaming bars and cafes is a phenomenon being seen worldwide. Not only do they provide a platform for connection by both adults and children, but they also offer customers the chance to discover new games. 

All of this is precisely what Meeks had intended: making gaming a hobby accessible to all ages and interests. “I want to prove that anybody can game. I don’t care if you’re four years old and just learning to read or 90 years old and want something to bond over with your grandchildren or great-grandchildren. I genuinely want everyone to realize that this is something everyone can enjoy.”  To ensure that commitment, he stocks a selection of games that are incredibly user-friendly. “I have games I can teach you to play in under 30 seconds, and where you’ll be a master in 60 seconds. Some of them don’t even require the ability to read,” he said. 

As for customer favorites, Meeks says, “We sell a lot of trading card games such as Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering. Board game bestsellers include Catch the Moon, a stacking game appropriate for all ages, and Avalon, a strategy game he says, ‘is as complicated as chess, but easier to learn than checkers.” One of Meeks’ favorites is Monolyth, a puzzle game where players draft pieces to build a three-dimensional cube.

In addition to the wide selection of games, CGC is known for its commitment to the community. Beyond the store’s day-to-day operations, CGC actively engages with various local events and organizations. From sponsoring family game nights to supporting school fundraisers, Meeks is prominent in the town’s community-oriented initiatives. 

There is a good reason for this wholehearted engagement: his roots on the Eastern Shore are long, dating back 14 generations. It even includes a relative who was a signer of the Charter of the Town of Chestertown. Meeks grew up, studied, spent time on the water, and worked around the area. It’s no surprise that he wants to give back to a town that has been supportive and enthusiastic about him and now his store. “Centreville is amazing, and there are so many opportunities here,” he said, crediting the town’s representatives and Carol D’Agostino, who is in charge of Centreville Main Street, for their assistance. “Carol pulled me aside when we first met and advised me how the town could help. Anytime I’ve had a crazy idea for an event, she’s been 100% behind me, guiding me.”

A regular customer of the store, Noah Farris, said: “Daniel’s success in building his business lies mostly in his drive to create a place for people to enjoy and find an outlet for their passions coupled with his desire to give back to the town in which he grew up.”

That sentiment is exactly what Meeks hopes to convey to others. Because to him, Central Gaming Corps is more than just a business; it expresses the positive impact gaming has had on his life. “Gaming literally saved my life,” he said. “It gave me a support system and taught me how to make compromises and be a better human in everything from sportsmanship to humility. It helped me analyze my decisions and lose my impulsivity.” He attributes his business acumen to the insights he accumulated from his gaming experiences. “This knowledge reinforces my belief that I’m on the right path, even in moments of self-doubt,” he said.

Despite this occasional doubt, he is a role model for others. Jackie Marie Royer, a Chemistry Account Manager who has known Meeks since they were teens, said, “On the Eastern Shore, new businesses are popping up every day, but most of the time, they’re attached to well-established groups or by people who have a lot of money. Seeing someone I grew up with, someone I know wasn’t from a wealthy family, accomplish it and thrive was inspiring. As a millennial, it always feels like our options are limited in what we can do, but Daniel was determined and just went out there and accomplished the dream!”

So, for now, Meeks is content to pay off any debt he has acquired from starting the business. After that, he’s open to exploring expansion possibilities. This could mean moving to a larger location in Centreville, opening a second store, or hiring employees to help manage the growing demands. 

But even if he never expands, Meeks is already making a difference in Centreville. He provides a space for people of all ages to come together and enjoy gaming while fostering community ties. That’s quite an impact for a young entrepreneur who never gave up on his dreams.

Central Gaming Corps is located at 2478 Centreville Rd # C, Centreville, MD 21617. For hours, events, and game availability go to: https://centralgamingcorps.com/

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Spy Highlights

Spy Profile: Behind the Brussel Sprouts with Lynn Sanchez

May 24, 2023 by Val Cavalheri

“Trust the journey and enjoy the detours.” That’s not the typical advice associated with parenting, but it’s one that Lynn Sanchez preaches. Author of the light-hearted and practical guide for parents (and grandparents) Behind the Brussel Sprouts: Why YOU Have What It Takes to Be the Best Parent for Your Child, Sanchez draws on her 50 years of experience as both a parent and as an early childhood educator to help guide mothers and fathers through the challenging, messy, often scary, and rewarding experiences of child-rearing. 

Based on 30 years of notes Sanchez kept while raising her three boys, the book was written, she said, to help parents relax and enjoy the experience of parenting, something she had not always been able to do. “In the book, I described myself as more than just a helicopter parent; I was a hovercraft! Since I majored in child development and worked in that field, I considered myself a professional parent and put a tremendous amount of pressure on myself. But there were also a lot of lessons I learned along the way that I wanted to share.”

Born in Nova Scotia, Canada, Sanchez moved 11 times by the time she became a teen. As an only child, her parents were committed to not raising a spoiled child. “They were very, very, very strict,” she said. Despite all that, by the time Sanchez started college, children were her focus, and she earned a degree in Child Development and then a Master’s in Education. She worked in the psychiatric and educational field for some years before moving to the Eastern Shore, where she taught preschool and was an assistant professor at Chesapeake College. However, her association with noted author and pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton and his ‘Touchpoint’ theory of child development helped cultivate and solidify her ideas as she created this parental guide.

The 127-page book contains twelve chapters (and two fun appendices), real-life memories, and quotable quotes that cover a variety of innovative solutions to challenging parenting situations, being also mindful that a one-size-fits-all approach may not necessarily work. Sanchez, however, is quick to point out that this is not a ‘how-to’ but a ‘what-if’ book. What if, she says, you acknowledge instead of praise, guide instead of discipline, or create logical consequences.

Some solutions, Sanchez reflects, are simpler than others. For instance, the value of how changing one word in a sentence turns a bribe or a threat into an agreement., “A bribe goes like this,” she says, “‘If you eat your dinner, you get dessert,’ Instead say, ‘When dinner is finished, dessert will be served.’ That’s an agreement. That helps a child make a choice.”

As her children grew, these choices became written and signed contracts in the Sanchez family. Did it work? “My children never broke a contract,” she said. “And trust me, I had kids who could work a system like you’ve never seen. The contract helped me remember what I had asked of them, and they remembered what they agreed to. It was right there in black and white on the refrigerator door.”

Sanchez also discusses the importance of parental collaboration. Raising three boys born within a four-and-a-half-year span and supporting husband, Rob Sanchez, through the challenges of med school, the couple instituted ‘catch-up calls.’ “It was important that Rob did not walk in the door being bombarded by three humans,” she said. “So I would call him before he came home and tell him what was going on with the kids—from who was spending the night somewhere else to who didn’t do well in math. When he walked in, he already knew the lay of the land.”

The end of the evening after the kids were in bed was ‘we time’ an opportunity to nurture the grown-up relationship between the couple. “He didn’t talk about work, and I didn’t complain about the children.” (Although their children are grown and work is no longer as intrusive, the Sanchez’, after 53 years of marriage, still keep up with this tradition.)

That same one-on-one connection was also established between Rob and the children. Calling it their ‘monthly adventure,’ Rob would pick one Saturday a month to spend individually with each child. Explained Sanchez, “The boys could choose to do whatever they wanted on their ‘date’ with Dad. No matter how long he was gone, when he was with them, he was there 100%.”

These parenting insights have been transmitted into another one of Sanchez’s talents, her deep involvement in the Tred Avon Players (TAP) theater scene. Here she can be seen bringing her characters to life on stage by integrating her unique perspective on empathy, communication, and creative problem-solving. 

Sanchez continues to work on getting her message across. She is on the board at Critchlow Adkins, works with For All Seasons ‘whenever she is needed,’ and she and Rob are an integral part of Talbot Hospice Child Loss Support Group, an organization they helped start after the death of their son, Rion. Her current emphasis is creating collaborative efforts with her connections to deal with the rise in children’s mental health issues. 

That is why Easton’s For All Seasons partnered with Sanchez to launch and make available her book to the community (and beyond). President and CEO Beth Anne (Langrell) Dorman has written a forward to the book praising Sanchez for her ‘moments of wisdom, ’remembering how she, too, had relied on Sanchez’s advice in raising her children. 

The book, of course, is more than just advice; it’s a refreshing perspective for parents who are uneasy or overwhelmed in their role. It’s also an assurance and constant reminder that although they may not be aware of it, parents have what it takes to guide their children to joy and strength. 

“Trust the journey and enjoy the detours,” Sanchez will tell you. It’s the time together on the trip, not the destination, that makes lasting memories.

As to why it’s named, Behind the Brussel Sprouts, you’ll just have to read the book and find out.

For information about Behind the Brussels Sprouts, contact Lynn Sanchez at [email protected]. The book is available for purchase on Amazon.com 

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Spy Top Story, Spy Highlights

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