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May 17, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

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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.

USE IT OR LOSE IT! (An old adage with lots of truth)by Susan Covey

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The National Institute of Aging-supported researchers have been studying the effects of strength training for over 40 years and identified multiple ways it benefits older adults, such as maintaining muscle mass, improving metabolism, and increasing healthy years of life.

“Age related mobility limitations are an unpleasant fact for many older adults. Studies have shown that about 30% of adults over age 70 have trouble with walking, getting up out of a chair, or climbing stairs.” (NIA) In addition to making everyday tasks difficult, mobility limitations are also linked to higher rates of falls, chronic disease, nursing home admission and mortality.

Though we know the culprit for losing physical abilities is a phenomenon called sarcopenia, there are ways to slow this process down by maintaining an active lifestyle. While there is no way to fully stop the clock it is possible for many older adults to increase muscle strength with exercise, thus helping to maintain mobility and independence. (NIA)

Strength training or resistance training is different from other exercises because it requires our muscles to contract to lift a heavy object against the pull of gravity. The more weight we contract against the faster our bodies burn through reserves of ATP, a molecule that carries energy to cells. (NIA) So, yes, we know that muscle loss is reversible and there are other benefits as well:

  • Recharging metabolism
  • Reducing fat
  • Reducing blood pressure
  • Improving lipid levels
  • Resisting diabetes
  • Increasing bone density

Whatever you do, KEEP MOVING whatever parts you can!

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

 

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

Senior Nation: Counting Blessings by Susan Covey

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Here are a few quotes that may help us to count our blessings now and throughout the year:

“To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven.”—Johannes A. Gaertner

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”—Melody Beattie

“None is more impoverished than the one who has no gratitude. Gratitude is a currency that we can mint for ourselves, and spend without fear of bankruptcy.”—Fred De Witt Van Amburgh

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”—John Fitzgerald Kennedy

“Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: it must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all.”—William Faulkner

“We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”—Winston Churchill

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”—JFK

It is not happy people who are thoughtful, it is thoughtful people who are happy.

“There is nothing more honorable than a grateful heart.”—Seneca

“Gratitude is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all others.”—Marcus Tullius Cicero

Remember, we can always find something or someone to be thankful for, so, today let that someone know how grateful you are to have them in your life!

Susan Covey is the Fitness Program Manager at ACTS Bayleigh Chase

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