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November 17, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

Senior Nation Portal Lead

My wish for 2025 by Susan Covey

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The human body is such a wonder, and my wish for this new year, as a fitness trainer and general wellness enthusiast, is that all of us make the time to discover, or perhaps rediscover, our own awesome wonder, our own joy.  

Clear your mind of that four-letter word, “can’t”, because the only thing standing between you and your discovery is that bull—- story you keep telling yourself as to why it will never happen!   

I quote Nelson Mandela… “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

Just keep moving and Cheers to new adventures!!

Susan Covey, Fitness Director-Acts Baleigh Chase

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.

Enjoy the health benefits of Thanksgiving Day by Susan Covey

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Have you always thought the traditional Thanksgiving meal was full of empty calories?

Not so! One ounce of turkey, for instance, provides 8 grams of protein as well as B vitamins, zinc, and selenium. We all know that it is also a source of tryptophan, an essential amino acid for making proteins and serotonin and a neurotransmitter that impacts mood.

Potatoes, which often get a bad rap, are a major source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C. Sweet potatoes are full of antioxidants and provide vitamins A, C, and manganese.

Bread Stuffing can give you protein, vitamin A, vitamin K, and 21% of your daily fiber.

Cranberries, though 90% water with the rest being fiber and carbs, also contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory, immunity-boosting properties.

Pumpkin is packed with nutrients that support your immune system, especially important during the winter months. One cup of cooked pumpkin has just 50 calories yet provides 245% of the RDA for vitamin A, plus vitamin C, E, iron, and folate.

Pumpkin Pie is synonymous with Thanksgiving and, in addition to providing the aforementioned array of vitamins and minerals, gives us protein, calcium and best of all, JOY!

Eat until your heart’s content…but please follow your meal with a brisk outdoor walk or the following workout!

TURKEY DAY WORKOUT

Triceps kickbacks

Upright rows

Reverse lunges

Knee lifts

External knee rotations

Y-arm raises

Deadlifts

Arm circles

Yawn stretches (interlocked fingers, palms out, reach out and up, taking a deep breath, arms down as you exhale.

Happy November!

Susan Covey is the fitness director at Acts Bayleigh Chase in Easton, Maryland.

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

Cruisin’ with Christine: Serving the Londonderry Community with Pat Bradley

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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, it was decided that we would follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

This month, Christine visits with Londonderry resident Pat Bradley, who recently won the Ruth and Thomas Ingerson Award for community service.

One unique way Londonderry has grown to be one of the most successful retirement communities on the Eastern Shore is the scope and range of its special events and activities. As Christine finds out from Pat, one of its greatest assets is its residents’ exceptional level of engagement.

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.

Cruisin’ with Christine: Erica Hardeo and the Art of Engagement at Londonderry

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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 both its residents and the community at large. With Christine Harrington’s new addition as Londonderry’s CEO, it was decided that we would follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

This month, Christine visits with Erica Hardeo, Londonderry’s activities coordinator.

One unique way Londonderry has grown to be one of the most successful retirement communities on the Eastern Shore is the scope and range of its special events and activities.As Christine finds out from Erica, the secret ingredient for this reputation is truly understanding what the Londonderry community is interested in and finding the resources to make it happen.

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.

Cruisin’ with Christine: New Londonderry Residents Barbara Pratt and Phillip Gibson

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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 both its residents and the community at large. With the new addition of Christine Harrington as Londonderry’s CEO, it was decided that we would follow Christine as she learns about the nooks and crannies of this beautiful campus.

This week, Christine visits with new Londonderry residents Barbara Pratt and Phillip Gibson.

While Barbara and Phillip did cast a wide net for possible retirement communities, they talked to Chirstine about why they choose Easton to come home and why Londonderry stood out for some very special reasons.

 

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

Talbot County Gets Its Very Own Senior Fair: A Chat with Jennifer Pierson and Jenna Marchi

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While Talbot County has had resource fairs in the past that have helped the senior community navigate health and government assistance programs, the Talbot County Commission on Aging decided this was the year they would catch up with other counties on the Mid-Shore and offer their very own resource fair devoted exclusively to seniors.

Jennifer Pierson and Jenna Marchi, both members of the aging commission, came by the Spy Studio the other day to update the community and what they have planned for May 22, 2024.

The fair will take place at the Easton Volunteer Fire Department from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., offering valuable services and information for seniors and their families. Admission and parking for the event will be free.

“The Senior Resource Fair is something the Talbot County Commission on Aging has wanted to host for a long time,” stated Jennifer Marchi, Chairman of the Commission and owner of Home Instead, a local home care provider. “Getting these resources into the hands of Talbot County seniors helps that part of our population that often doesn’t know where to look or who to talk to, but it also is a core part of our mission, and for those reasons and more, we’re really excited to host this event.”

The fair will feature a variety of essential services and activities, including balance checks, A1C tests, Hepatitis C tests, HIV tests, medication disposal, raffle prizes, and giveaways. Representatives from local vendors and members of the Commission on Aging will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about available services in the area.

“The Senior Resource Fair is one way the Talbot County Commission on Aging is helping seniors in our area,” added Marchi. “Our commission members are all about helping our community and promoting successful aging, and that is exactly what this event aims to achieve.”

In addition to the Senior Resource Fair, the Talbot County Commission on Aging holds monthly meetings at The Talbot Senior Center, Brooklets Place. These meetings focus on addressing all aspects necessary to promote the interests, well-being, and quality of life of seniors in Talbot County. The Commission advises the Talbot County Council on seniors’ issues and advocates for change as needed.

For those interested in participating in the upcoming Senior Resource Fair or becoming involved with the Talbot County Commission on Aging, please visit our website at talbotseniors.org or email [email protected]. For individuals requiring assistance with transportation to attend the Senior Resource Fair, please get in touch with Delmarva Community Transit at 410-822-4155.

 

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.

Londonderry’s Erica Hardeo Named 2024 “Woman to Watch”

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon’s Director of Community Engagement, Erica Hardeo, was named a 2024 Woman to Watch by APG Media. She, along with other honorees, was recognized during a special event on April 10th at the Avalon Theatre in Easton.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon’s Director of Community Engagement, Erica Hardeo, was named a 2024 Woman to Watch by APG Media. She, along with other honorees, was recognized during a special event on April 10th at the Avalon Theatre in Easton.

“This recognition is so well deserved,” said Rachel Smith, Londonderry’s Director of Sales and Marketing. “Working alongside Erica is an incredible privilege; her endless passion for creating events and programs for our residents is truly unmatched. She is the heartbeat of our community, and her infectious spirit and work ethic foster an environment where everyone feels included and engaged. Congratulations to Erica and all the other honorees!”

As Director of Engagement, Hardeo is responsible for Londonderry’s activities program that embraces the Seven Dimensions of Wellness (mental, physical, social, financial, spiritual, environmental, and vocational). In collaboration with residents, Hardeo plans a range of relevant and meaningful programs, including community service projects, instructional and wellness classes, guest lectures, off-campus dining and shopping adventures, and community-wide events. Through her work, Hardeo ensures that every resident finds a way to connect with the community.

“It’s important to connect with your community. Sometimes the smallest things can be the biggest things,’ said Hardeo. “It motivates me when I see residents make connections and give back to the greater community. They inspire me.”

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.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Dining Room Team’s Commitment to Excellence

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon’s Dining Room team is dedicated to providing the best service possible. Dining at Londonderry on the Tred Avon is an experience in top-notch hospitality due to every team member’s hard work and innovation.

Like all Londonderry departments, the Dining Room team is dedicated to providing the best service possible. Dining at Londonderry on the Tred Avon is an experience in top-notch hospitality, due to hard work and innovation. Endlessly seeking ways to take hospitality to the next level, their commitment to excellence can be recognized in the welcoming smiles, the knowledgeable waitstaff, and the overall presentation of the well-prepared dishes.

“The waitstaff team believes that dining together with friends and neighbors should always be enjoyable, and our residents depend on our team to deliver them the best dining experience,” says Chelsea Harris, Londonderry’s Director of Dining Services. “They make sure food is ordered to the specifications of residents and served professionally, taking pride in the dishes that they present. This is a team effort, with the dining room team depending on the hard work of the kitchen team.”

Made up of various ages, but mostly high school and college students, the Dining Room Team welcomes all who are passionate about providing superior service at the Tred Avon Tavern. For many team members, working at Londonderry is their first job, and they stay until they graduate from college. Harris always welcomes back any past team members who have left for college but are home for breaks or summer, viewing them as a part of the Londonderry family.

Londonderry residents enjoy watching the Dining Room team flourish and proudly support the continued education of high school seniors on staff, even going so far as to start a college scholarship program funded entirely by resident donations. These donations are given to any high school student going off to college or trade school. “This program is something the residents are very proud of and will continue to support as the years go forward,” says Harris. “Many past team members return to Londonderry and express their gratitude for the opportunity to work in such a wonderful place.”

“The Dining Team is incredibly dependable, knowing that residents count on them, and they are always excited to help our residents because they understand the value of working at Londonderry,” Harris shared. “As a team member, you have the opportunity to learn from people of different backgrounds, learn how to be a part of a team, and most importantly, you learn that being happy with what you do is a big part of how you do your job. Being a part of the Londonderry team is knowing that it’s not one person who makes us special, but everyone.”

With the Londonderry Dining Room team’s endless dedication to their department, residents can sit down for lunch or dinner, knowing that each meal served will be a meal enjoyed.

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.