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February 13, 2026

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

Senior Nation

Londonderry Satellite Rotary Club and Residents Support Easton Elementary Students Through Successful Supply Drive

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The Londonderry on the Tred Avon Satellite Rotary Club, together with Londonderry residents, recently celebrated the success of a community-wide supply drive benefiting students and families at Easton Elementary School through the Care Closets and Sponsor a Classroom programs. Lari Caldwell, chairperson of the Club presents Kate Fox, Community School Program Manager with donations from Londonderry residents.

The Londonderry on the Tred Avon Satellite Rotary Club, together with Londonderry residents, recently celebrated the success of a community-wide supply drive benefiting students and families at Easton Elementary School.

Through generous donations of clothing, personal care items, and financial contributions, the Rotary Club and Londonderry community provided meaningful support to Easton Elementary’s Care Closets, which offer discreet access to essential items for students in need. In addition, more than $2,000 was raised for the school’s PTO Sponsor a Classroom program, helping teachers purchase critical classroom supplies throughout the year.

Donations included winter jackets, pants, socks, hats, gloves, wipes, pull-ups, and personal hygiene items—resources that directly support children facing everyday challenges beyond the classroom.

“This effort truly reflects the heart of our Rotary Club and the compassion of the Londonderry community,” said Lari Caldwell, Chairperson of the Londonderry Satellite Rotary Club. “Our residents and members gave generously because they understand that meeting a child’s basic needs can make a powerful difference in a child’s ability to learn, grow, and succeed. We are incredibly proud to support Easton Elementary and the families they serve.”

Katie Fox, Community School Program Manager at Easton Elementary School, attended both a Rotary Club meeting and a Londonderry residents’ meeting to receive the donations. She shared how deeply appreciative the school community is for the generosity shown and emphasized that the donated items and funds will make an immediate, meaningful impact for students and teachers alike.

Easton Elementary’s Care Closet program works through school staff and community partners to ensure students and families can access food, clothing, hygiene products, and school supplies with dignity and discretion.

The Londonderry Satellite Rotary Club continues to focus on service initiatives that strengthen connections across generations and support the broader Easton community and is proudly affiliated with the Rotary Club of Easton.

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults, ages 62+, that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among 29 acres, including 1500 feet of waterfront shoreline. For more information, visit www.londonderrytredavon.com.

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

Cruisin’ with Christine: A Group Chat with Duval Mills, Jennifer Hughes, and Ericka Taylor

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Over the last ten years, the Spy and Londonderry on the Tred Avon have collaborated on stories about this unique retirement community, which educates its residents and the broader community. With Christine Harrington’s appointment as Londonderry’s CEO, we decided to follow her as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus. In this edition, it’s all about the Londonderry.
Christine sits down with long-tenured and beloved team members Duval Mills, Jennifer Hughes, and Ericka Taylor to discuss their personal histories with the community and how the word “family” continues to appear in their descriptions of their experiences working there.

This video is approximately seven minutes in length. For more information about Londonderry, please go here.

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

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Unveils Newly Renovated Community Center

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon has completed a comprehensive renovation of its Community Center, the social heart of the senior living community. The redesign, which began with planning in late 2023 and wrapped up in early 2025, was led by Bountiful, working in close partnership with Carol Wheeler and Jamie Merida to reimagine the space for comfort, connection, and community.

The goal, according to Rachel Smith, Londonderry’s Director of Sales and Marketing, was to create a setting that feels “comfortable, inviting, and distinctly Londonderry.”

“When you enter Londonderry, you immediately feel at home,” said Smith. “It’s like living in a beautiful resort—light, airy, and peaceful. We wanted the Community Center to reflect that same feeling, a place where you can take a deep breath and truly relax.”

The renovation refreshed every corner of the Community Center, including the Tred Avon Tavern, library, and media center. The result is a bright, open environment that encourages residents to gather, linger, and enjoy the company of friends and neighbors.

With the recent addition of Londonderry’s Clubhouse, the Community Center’s Living Room has also been reimagined. Once used primarily for activities, it now serves as a more casual social space for residents to watch TV, enjoy a drink before dinner, or spend time together before heading to the Tavern.

The Community Center continues to host a wide range of activities—from painting and ukulele classes to TED Talks, chair yoga, and advisory committee meetings. Residents also gather there for book club discussions, card games, and social hours.

Smith said residents have embraced the new look and functionality.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive,” she said. “Everyone was patient during the renovation process, even when hallways were closed or team members had to temporarily relocate. Bountiful worked carefully to minimize disruptions, even completing much of the work during evening hours. Now that everything is complete, the response has been wonderful. Residents love the bright, updated spaces and the new opportunities to gather.”

This project follows earlier enhancements to Magnolia Manor, completed between 2022 and 2023, as part of Londonderry’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a fresh, contemporary environment for its residents.

“You need to make a change every once in a while,” Smith added. “Styles evolve, and we always want Londonderry to feel current, vibrant, and beautifully maintained. Our goal is for every resident to feel proud to call Londonderry home—and for every visitor to immediately understand why it’s the Eastern Shore’s top retirement destination.”

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon
Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults ages 62+ that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among 29 acres, including 1500 feet of waterfront shoreline. For more information, visit www.londonderrytredavon.com.

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

Cruisin’ with Christine: A Chat with Londonderry’s Susan Andrews

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Over the last ten years, the Spy and Londonderry on the Tred Avon have collaborated on stories about this unique retirement community, which educates its residents and the broader community. With Christine Harrington’s new addition as Londonderry’s CEO, we decided to follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

Last month, Londonderry on the Tred Avon named Susan Andrews the 2025 recipient of the Ingerson Award, its highest honor, which recognizes exceptional service, leadership, and community spirit. Established in memory of Tom and Ruth Ingerson—two of Londonderry’s founding leaders—the award celebrates residents who reflect the community’s values of respect, integrity, and shared purpose.

Christine sat down with her a few weeks ago to learn more.

This video is approximately seven minutes in length. For more information about Londonderry, please go here.

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

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Welcomes Chef, Brendan Keegan, Jr.

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 Londonderry on the Tred Avon is proud to announce that Brendan Keegan, Jr. has joined the community as its new Chef. With more than 30 years of restaurant experience and two decades on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Keegan brings a passion for excellence and a hands-on approach to Londonderry’s signature dining program.

“Enjoying great meals together is a cherished part of life at Londonderry,” said Christine Harrington, CEO. “Brendan’s fine dining background, attention to detail, and creativity make him a perfect fit for our community. We’re thrilled to have him leading our talented kitchen team and continuing to elevate the dining experience for our residents.”

Keegan’s culinary journey began after graduating from L’Academie de Cuisine in Gaithersburg, Md., and includes time at some of the most respected kitchens in the region — including 1789 and Kinkead’s American Brasserie in Washington, D.C. — before taking his talents to New York City, where he worked at Prune under Chef Gabrielle Hamilton, a James Beard Award–winning chef and author.

Keegan started at Prune the day before September 11, 2001, and spent three years there under Hamilton’s mentorship. “When I met Gabrielle, I knew how to cook,” said Keegan. “She helped me become more. Her influence continues to shape how I think about food and how I lead a kitchen.” The two remain in touch to this day — Keegan even attended the James Beard Awards as Hamilton’s guest.

Following his time in New York, Keegan returned to the Eastern Shore, where he owned and operated two beloved Easton restaurants — 208 Talbot and Brasserie Brightwell — both known for their creativity, refinement, and commitment to local ingredients. Most recently, he led the retail operations at Captain’s Ketch Seafood in Easton, improving methods, procedures, and prepared foods while mentoring a small team.

Returning to Easton and joining Londonderry marks a new chapter for Keegan, one that blends his love of cooking with a focus on balance and community.

“At this point in my career, I was looking for a position that would let me do what I love while also being more present for my family,” said Keegan. “At Londonderry, I get to create healthful, balanced, and flavorful meals for 187 residents every day — it’s an exciting challenge and a wonderful opportunity to be part of something special.”

Unlike restaurant service, Londonderry’s kitchen operates on a larger scale, serving multiple seatings each day in a banquet-style format. Keegan sees this as an opportunity to combine precision and efficiency with the creativity and care of a fine dining experience.

Known for his hands-on leadership, Keegan is deeply committed to using the highest quality ingredients and methods, with a keen eye for presentation and consistency. His approach emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and well-balanced menus that reflect both resident preferences and modern culinary trends.

“Every meal is a chance to make someone’s day a little better,” said Keegan. “That’s what drives me in the kitchen — exceeding expectations with every plate.” 

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults ages 62+ that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among 29 acres, including 1500 feet of waterfront shoreline. For more information, visit www.londonderrytredavon.com.

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

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Honors Susan Andrews with 2025 Ingerson Award

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 Londonderry on the Tred Avon is proud to announce that Susan Andrews has been named the 2025 recipient of the Ingerson Award, the community’s highest honor recognizing exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to neighbors and community life. Andrews was formally presented with the award during Londonderry’s Annual Stockholder Meeting in August.

The Ingerson Award was established in honor of Tom and Ruth Ingerson, two of Londonderry’s earliest leaders whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for the thriving, resident-driven community enjoyed today. The award celebrates residents who embody Londonderry’s shared values of respect, integrity, community pride, commitment to excellence, innovation, and mutual trust.

This year’s honoree, Susan Andrews, has been an active and inspiring member of Londonderry since moving to the community in 2016. Prior to relocating to the Eastern Shore, Susan enjoyed a distinguished career as a United States History teacher in Southern California. She was inducted into the Ventura County Educators’ Hall of Fame and recognized as the Dona of the City of Camarillo for her outstanding contributions to her hometown. Beyond the classroom, she gave generously of her time as a volunteer at her church and the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum.

At Londonderry, Susan’s impact has been wide-reaching. She played a central role in the development of Chuck’s Garden (Londonderry’s community garden), served on the Board of Directors, and stepped in as a substitute exercise teacher. She is also a resident ambassador, a member of the Activities Advisory Group, Jammers, Wine Night team, and the Christmas décor group. Her volunteerism extends into the broader community through her work with Christ Church – St. Michaels as a Eucharistic Minister, Docent, and Reader, as well as service with the Presidential Library Preservation Committee and Rotary.

“Susan embodies the very spirit of the Ingerson Award. She has a gift for bringing people together and enriching the lives of those around her. Her energy, generosity, and unwavering commitment make Londonderry a stronger, more vibrant community,” said Christine Harrington, CEO of Londonderry on the Tred Avon. “It is a privilege to recognize her with this year’s award.”

Through her service, leadership, and generosity, Susan continues the legacy of Tom and Ruth Ingerson, whose vision and dedication built the strong foundation of community that Londonderry celebrates today.

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults ages 62+ that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among

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

Senior Nation: Embrace Your Age, Live Your Best Life by Susan Covey

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According to Leading Age, “Active Aging is a worldwide initiative that honors the spirit and contributions of older adults while encouraging active lifestyles and changing perceptions of aging.” The theme for 2025, as stated in the title of this article, aims to celebrate the positive aspects of aging, encourage healthy habits and promote the idea that aging can be an active and fulfilling experience. This year, Active Aging Week will be celebrated from October 6th through the 10th.

So, as Autumn closes in, I’d like to especially encourage everyone to reap the benefits of nature every chance you get. Scientific studies have proven that not only walking, but just being in nature has a profound positive impact on our health. Of course, we know that if we walk at least 15 minutes a day, we will have fewer diseases and are less likely to get cancer, have a lower risk of heart attack and stroke and have better bone density.  But recent researchers are now demonstrating a reduction in stress, blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as an upswing in mood and general outlook on life just because of being outside.  They have also shown a link to longevity and decreased risk of mental illness and depression. (Kuo and Taylor 2004, DeVries et al. 2003) The health benefits of nature may also be relevant to injury prevention and control, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, musculoskeletal conditions, and other maladies, including cancer (Li, 2009).

Drawing attention to these benefits of outdoor leisure and recreation for improved health helps shift attention from the downstream costs of health care to the upstream efforts to prevent ill health from occurring.  An upstream focus is always empowering and enables individuals to take a more prominent role in their own wellness.

Ok folks, time to get out there! We are so very fortunate to have such lovely, well-maintained nature trails in our area: Tuckahoe State Park, Adkins Arboretum, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, Martinak State Park, Pickering Creek, and more!

Enjoy everything around you and take the time to PLAY. After all, you’re never too old to jump in the leaves!

Susan S. Covey is Director of Fitness at Acts Bayleigh Chase in Easton. 

 

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

Cruisin’ with Christine: A Chat with Londonderry’s Jennifer Hughes

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Over the last ten years, the Spy and Londonderry on the Tred Avon have collaborated on stories about this unique retirement community, which educates its residents and the broader community. With Christine Harrington’s new addition as Londonderry’s CEO, we decided to follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

This month, Christine visits with Jennifer Hughes, Londonderry’s Controller.  Jennifer has spent 21 years with the community, moving from dining staff to finance leadership. She describes the co-op’s unique, resident-driven budget process and stock structure, which fosters transparency and involvement. Beyond finance, she’s dedicated nearly 20 years to volunteer fire and EMS service, bringing CPR training and community-minded experience back to Londonderry.

This video is approximately seven minutes in length. For more information about Londonderry, please go here.

 

 

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

The Difference Between Try And Triumph Is A Little Umph! By Susan Covey

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September is Healthy Aging Month which is designed to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older. The mission being to encourage all of us to take personal responsibility for our own health and well-being by aging with a healthy body, mind and spirit.

So, let’s get motivated, reinvent ourselves and use these simple strategies to keep our good intentions to begin an exercise program or to just keep you on track and CELEBRATE HEALTHY AGING MONTH!

  1. Find something you enjoy. Remember “exercise” can include brain games, outdoor games, playing with the grandchildren, walking around the Zoo, hiking in the woods or taking a meditation walk around the block.
  2. Set goals but make them short term goals that you can easily track. One workout at a time.
  3. Find the best time and make part of your everyday schedule. This will keep you more accountable than just thinking about doing and never doing.
  4. Start slowly. Even just 10 minutes 3 or 4 times a week. The goal being 150 minutes per week.
  5. Plan to do things with a buddy, or a group.
  6. Reward yourself with anything that makes you feel good as long as it doesn’t interfere with your goals.
  7. Mix it up, try a new class, challenge yourself.
  8. But also go easy on yourself if you fall off the wagon. Just get back in your routine as soon as possible. Don’t make it a source of stress. Just enjoy a bit of a break and move on!

Put some umph in your good intentions and reap the benefits!!!  You’ll be glad you did!

Susan Covey is the Acts Bayleigh Chase Fitness Director based in Easton.

 

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

Cruisin’ with Christine: A Chat with Londonderry’s Ken Sadler

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Over the last ten years, the Spy and Londonderry on the Tred Avon have collaborated on stories about this unique retirement community, which educates its residents and the broader community. With Christine Harrington’s new addition as Londonderry’s CEO, we decided to follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

This month, Christine visits with Londonderry resident Ken Sadler. With a background as a successful former businessman, world-class sailor, artist, potter, and sometimes professional clown, Ken discusses his life in Easton and how he has found a special place at Londonderry for his widely diverse interests and hobbies, while also having a lot of fun along the way.

This video is approximately eight minutes in length. For more information about Londonderry, please go here.

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