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February 14, 2026

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

Senior Nation Senior Highlights Senior Nation Senior Notes

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.

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.

It’s All Happening at the Talbot County Senior Fair May 21

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The Talbot County Commission on Aging recently announced the return of its highly successful Senior Resource Fair! After an incredible turnout and overwhelmingly positive feedback in 2024, the Commission will host the 2025 Senior Resource Fair on May 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Easton Volunteer Fire Department. As always, admission and parking are free, ensuring this community-focused event is accessible to all.

Commission members Grace Lyons and Megan Murray stopped by the Spy studio last week to talk about the event and getting the word out to local elders to take advantage of the unique opportunity to meet with so many service providers.

This video is approximately two minutes in length. For more information, please go here.

 

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

Senior Nation: Gardening a Great Boost for Body and Soul by Susan Covey

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The calming benefits of being in the natural world are endless and include fresh air, improved mood and concentration, mental clarity, lower blood pressure, improved flexibility of your joints and muscles.  The list goes on, but the simple satisfaction and delight derived from watching things grow and bloom is both unmatched and undeniable.

Gardening sharpens your mind.  There is evidence that growing plants enhances your brain.  For example, one NIH study found that the act of gardening may lower your risk of dementia by as much as 36 percent!

Gardening strengthens your body.  The actual act of maintaining a garden keeps you moving for one thing. Considering many of us sit for way too much of the day, this is important.  An active lifestyle in turn lowers your likelihood of obesity, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, stroke, depression, and more.  In addition, if you garden outside, you’ll also passively reap the benefits of sun exposure.  Sunshine, of course, is a key source of vitamin D, which fortifies your bones and immune system.

Gardening soothes your soul.  Working in the garden can lower your levels of cortisol, the stress hormone and restore your energy.  It generally lifts your spirits and if that’s not enough growing a community garden with others can also combat feelings of loneliness.  

I’ll end with an anonymous quote that you may have heard before, and someone gave to me on a kitchen towel that reads:

“Gardening is cheaper than therapy and you get tomatoes” …or flowers, or fruit!

Susan Covey is the 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.

Leaders of Londonderry on the Tred Avon named “Women to Watch” by Baltimore Magazine

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The female leaders at Londonderry on the Tred Avon were named “Women to Watch” by Baltimore Magazine in its February issue. Pictured from left are Chelsea Harris, Erica Hardeo, Rachel Smith, Christine Harrington, Jennifer Hughes and Lacree Brown.

The female leaders at Londonderry on the Tred Avon were named “Women to Watch” by Baltimore Magazine in its February issue.

Baltimore Magazine recognized the female members of Londonderry’sleadership team for their visionary leadership and commitment to creating a vibrant, hospitality-focused culture on campus where residents and team members thrive. Recognized leaders include: Christine Harrington, Chief Executive Officer; Chelsea Harris, Director of Dining Services; Jennifer Hughes, Controller; Rachel Smith, Director of Sales and Marketing; Lacree Brown, Director of Housekeeping Services and Erica Hardeo, Director of Community Engagement.

 “These are a few of the amazing women who I have the pleasure of working with every day,” said Christine Harrington, Londonderry on the Tred Avon CEO. “With the continued support of Londonderry’s Board of Directors and team, these women have positioned the community as a trusted leader in resort-style retirement living. This recognition from Baltimore Magazine is so well deserved of their inspiring hard work.”

Londonderry is always innovating and tailors its personalized services to meet the evolving needs of today’s retirees, setting the gold standard for senior living. Residents enjoy a dynamic, collaborative lifestyle where wellness is prioritized, independence is celebrated, and every day offers something new. From curating engaging social calendars and organizing fitness classes to coordinating outings, book clubs, winemaking, and card games, the community fosters meaningful connections and lifelong enrichment.

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’s Chelsea Harris Graduates from Shore Leadership

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon is pleased to announce that its Director of Dining Services, Chelsea Harris, graduated from the Shore Leadership Program on December 4th at the Easton Elks Lodge #1622.

“Shore Leadership was an incredible experience,” said Harris. “Even as an Eastern Shore native, there was still so much to learn about my home – its people, places, opportunities, and challenges. I was able to meet professionals from so many career paths and industries and learn new skills that I have already implemented in my work at Londonderry.”

During the nine-month program, Shore Leadership participants learn through face-to-face discussions with community leaders and experts from organizations and institutions that shape the region’s economic structure and culture. The class develops an in-depth understanding of the interrelationships and complexities of the region. Participants meet one day each month at locations throughout the Eastern Shore, discussing topics such as aspects of legacy, technology, economic development, community and arts, environment, education, and government.

Harris is the third Shore Leadership Graduate on Londonderry’s Leadership Team, joining Rachel Smith (21) and Jennifer Hughes (23). 

Since 1997, the Shore Leadership program has facilitated positive change and enhanced the quality of life on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. To apply to the Shore Leadership Program and Shore Leadership 2.0., fill out an application and submit a letter of recommendation on their website, https://shoreleadership.org/apply/.


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: Protecting the Londonderry Community with Rich Williams

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Over the last ten years, the Spy and Londonderry on the Tred Avon have worked together on stories about this unique retirement community that educates its residents and the 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’s Rich Williams, its security and transportation director.

One would need to look far and wide to find a safer community than Easton, and this applies to Londonderry on the Tred Avon, its flagship retirement community off of Port Street. Nonetheless, every neighborhood needs to think about public safety and provide for its residents, and that’s where Rich Williams is making a real difference as ndonderry’s director of security and transportation.

After spending 23 years with the Baltimore Fire Department and retiring as a captain, Rich and his family came to the Eastern Shore for his next chapter. With his emergency management background from the Fire Department and his recent work assisting the Talbot County Emergency Operations Center with Response and Recovery during the pandemic, Londonderry found the perfect leader for this important mission.

As Christine finds out in her interview, Rich not only has the best preparation to support Londonderry residents, but he also comes with a bit of Hollywood on the side with his unique role in the movie Ladder 49.

This video is approximately nine 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.

Talbot County Commission on Aging welcomes three new members: Andy Hollis, Kathleen Dormody, and Megan Pinder

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The Talbot County Commission on Aging (COA) is pleased to announce the addition of three new members: Andy Hollis, Kathleen Dormody, and Megan Pinder. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and passion for enhancing the quality of life for older adults in Talbot County.

The Commission on Aging serves as a vital resource for advocating on behalf of older adults in the community. Through education, collaboration, and outreach, the COA addresses key issues such as housing, transportation, healthcare, and social connection. The Commission also works closely with local and State agencies to provide resources and support for aging residents.

Andy Hollis, a seasoned leader in government and nonprofit organizations, currently serves as the President and CEO of Delmarva Community Services (DCS). His extensive background includes roles as Talbot County Manager and Executive Director of Upper Shore Aging. Hollis is deeply committed to fostering dignity and independence for older adults, and his leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration and community stewardship.

Kathleen Dormody, who has a professional background spanning education, project management, and copywriting, is passionate about advocating for individuals who need support. Her commitment to helping older adults age in place with dignity stems from personal experiences caring for loved ones. Dormody brings a fresh perspective to the COA, focusing on empowering older adults and their families.

Megan Pinder has dedicated her career to serving older adults and individuals with developmental disabilities. Her experience includes roles as an Ombudsman for the Area Agency on Aging and Maryland Access Point Coordinator. Currently, she is the Director of Sales and Marketing at HeartFields at Easton. Pinder’s deep connections in the senior services sector will enhance the commission’s ability to address the needs of the aging population.

Volunteers are the backbone of the Commission on Aging, supporting initiatives that make a difference for older adults in Talbot County. Responsibilities for commission members include attending monthly meetings and participating in the commission’s subcommittees, such as the Community Outreach Committee, which connects older adults to resources; the Marketing Committee, which raises awareness of senior issues through media and outreach; the Senior Supply Drive Committee, which organizes drives for essential items; and the Senior Resource Fair Committee, which plans the annual resource fair for older adults and their families.

The COA encourages individuals passionate about serving older adults to consider volunteering. To learn more about the COA, its mission, and upcoming projects, visit talbotcountymd.gov/COA.

About the Commission on Aging

The Talbot County Commission on Aging is dedicated to fostering a community where older adults can thrive. Through education, advocacy, and partnerships, the COA addresses the challenges and opportunities of aging, ensuring older adults have access to resources that support independence, dignity, and quality of life.

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

Nature’s Many Benefits by Susan S. Covey

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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) Health benefits of nature may also have relevance 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 our own wellness.

So, take control and get out there!  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 the 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.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Wraps Up Outdoor Concert Series

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Londonderry Residents dance during a live performance by the Jones Boys as part of the Outdoor Concert Series.

Earlier in September, Londonderry on the Tred Avon wrapped-up its 2024 Outdoor Concert Series with The Jones Boys with Red Shef.

The Outdoor Concert Series has quickly become a favorite Londonderry tradition where residents, friends and family members gather around the pool each month from June – September to enjoy live music, dancing and refreshments from local food trucks, a 2023 addition that returned due to popular demand.

“The outdoor concerts are the perfect way to enjoy Eastern Shore Summer nights and the company of your neighbors,” said Elaine Moore, Londonderry resident. “It’s the highlight of summers at Londonderry.”

2024 performers included Rosewood, The Capital Effect Duo, the Rising Tide Band and the Jones Boys.

The July concert also coincided with the annual Londonderry Farmer’s Market where residents could purchase a variety of local produce, eggs, jams and baked goods made by Londonderry’s culinary team.

“Being outside and enjoying great food, music and company on a beautiful evening is just good for the soul,” said Erica Hardeo, Director of Community Engagement. “The Outdoor Concert Series is just one way we create a vibrant and close-knit community at Londonderry,”

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is an intimate residential cooperative community for adults ages 62+, offering 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.