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May 17, 2022

The Talbot Spy

The nonprofit e-newspaper for the Talbot County Community

Senior Nation Portal Lead

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Wins First Place in Candle Light Cove’s Peep Show

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon was named the winner of Candlelight Cove’s Third Annual “Peep Show” at its Spring Festival on April 2nd. Individuals, organizations, and businesses in the community were encouraged to submit their creations made from Peeps – the iconic marshmallow treats. Londonderry’s submission demonstrated the community’s support of the people of Ukraine and depicted the Ukrainian Flag and sunflower made from 270 peeps.

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.

Andrew Hollis Named Executive Director of Upper Shore Aging

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Pictured is Andrew Hollis of Easton who has recently been appointed Executive Director of Upper Shore Aging, Inc.

Upper Shore Aging, Inc. (USA) has announced the appointment of Andrew Hollis of Easton as the new Executive Director of its organization.  Hollis currently serves as Deputy Director of Delmarva Community Services, Inc. and before that as County Manager for Talbot County.

Upper Shore Aging is a nonprofit Area Agency on Aging, providing services for over 32,000 seniors in Caroline, Kent, and Talbot counties.  The organization operates five Senior Centers, delivers Meals-on-Wheels, and provides a wide range of other programs and services aimed at helping seniors remain safe and thrive in their communities.

“When the Board of Directors was searching for a new Executive Director, we knew we wanted someone with a vision of what USA could be. We are proud of our heritage and the services we provide for our seniors, but there is so much more we could do.  Andy has that vision. He understands the needs of the local senior community and has the leadership ability and consensus-building skills to help us achieve our goals,” stated Bill Shrieves, President of the Board of Directors of USA.

For the last 20 years, Hollis has held several key leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations on the Mid-Shore. He has provided leadership in day-to-day operations, administration, and fiscal matters.  As county manager, he was responsible for overseeing the preparation, approval, and implementation of multi-million-dollar operating and capital budgets.

“Andy’s leadership style and management experience will be critical to achieving our goals.  His fiscal management experience will help us achieve our goal of sustainable cash flow.  His name recognition in the communities we serve will help raise awareness of USA as the authority on quality senior services,” Shrieves comments.

“His membership on our Board, representing Talbot County, and his relationships with leaders in the three counties we serve, will allow him the hit the ground running.  He has a passion for our senior population and will be a vocal advocate, giving voice to their issues and concerns.”

Hollis states, “Having served for many years in a prominent local government position, and worked with the Board and staff of USA, I have experience with the mission and related aspects of the agency. I now have the opportunity to use this knowledge, and my management experience, in a new and exciting way to benefit the organization.”

“The next executive director of USA will be tasked with implementing a strategic plan for the continued prosperity of the agency while positioning it for fiscal growth opportunities as well. My strong belief in the potential of USA, combined with my leadership experience, offers the opportunity to move the organization to even greater success. I look forward to accomplishing that by increasing the visibility of the organization, strengthening our relationship with community partners, and focusing on the needs of those we serve.”

Hollis previously served as Executive Director of Londonderry Retirement Community of Easton, Inc. and as Town Manager of St. Michaels, Maryland. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a major in Urban Studies/Urban Planning from the University of Maryland, College Park. He resides in Easton with his wife Karen.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Welcomes Julie Crocker as Board President

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Julie Crocker

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is pleased to announce Julie Crocker as the new President of its Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is comprised of residents and community members who volunteer their time to provide guidance and strategic direction to the cooperative and its management team. This is Crocker’s second time serving on the Board, and her first term as President.

“We are so pleased to have Julie at the helm,” said Irma Toce, Londonderry CEO. “She has a unique perspective and understanding of Londonderry as both a member of the community, health care professional and residents’ family member. We are fortunate to benefit from her leadership and breadth and depth of experience.”

Crocker has lived in Easton since 1983 and retired in 2014 after a four-decade career in health care.  She spent the majority of her career with the Delmarva Foundation for Medical Care where she oversaw quality of care for Medicare and Medicaid recipients and in-home care agencies. In 2005, she became the Executive Director of the Talbot Hospice Foundation and retired from that position in 2014.  She is also a 2004 graduate of Shore Leadership, and a 2008 graduate of Leadership Maryland.

Throughout her career and in retirement, Crocker has shared her time and talent with multiple commissions and non-profit organizations including, Mid-Shore Mental Health Systems, Talbot County Commission on Aging, The Country School Parents Association, Talbot County Public Guardianship Review Board, Talbot Hospice, the Waterfowl Festival, Friends of Hospices’ Festival of Trees and many more.

Julie and her husband have two daughters and three grandsons, all of whom live in Stevensville, MD.

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.

Londonderry Priority List and Homeownership Opportunities

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Those considering making Londonderry on the Tred Avon their future home are encouraged to join Londonderry’s Priority List. Priority List members have the unique opportunity to preview life at Londonderry before purchasing a home and have first right of refusal on cottages and apartments as they become available.

“Our team recognizes that moving out of a long-time family home and relocating to Londonderry is a big decision,” said Rachel Smith, Sales and Marketing Director. “Joining the Priority List gives potential community members a chance to get to know our team and fellow residents, experience our campus and amenities and learn about all the benefits of the Londonderry lifestyle before making the move. It’s also a great way to ensure a smooth transition once new residents are all moved in.”

Those considering making Londonderry on the Tred Avon their future home are encouraged to join Londonderry’s Priority List to take advantage of the unique opportunity preview life at Londonderry before purchasing a home.

Londonderry is the region’s only 62+ cooperative living community where residents enjoy all the benefits of homeownership, without the demands of maintenance and upkeep. They also enjoy resort-style living on the peaceful, 29-acre campus along the Tred Avon River. Amenities include the community center, new clubhouse, pool and walking trails. Londonderry also offers daily farm-to-table meals, fitness classes and a wide variety of activities and events on and off-campus.

Members of the Priority List may enjoy a night in the historic Magnolia Manor on the Londonderry Campus, enjoy a meal once a quarter in the Tred Avon Tavern, participate in on-campus activities, receive regular community updates and have first right of refusal on cottages and apartments as they become available.

Currently, Londonderry has several cottages available, all of which will be updated to suit the tastes of its new owner(s).

For more information about joining the Priority List or available cottages, please contact Rachel Smith at rsmith@londonderrytredavon.com.

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.

Upper Shore Aging Brings Senior Volunteer Program to Kent, Caroline, and Talbot

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Upper Shore Aging Inc. was the recent recipient of three $75,000 grants from the federal agency, AmeriCorps. Founded in 1975, Upper Shore Aging, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that serves as the designated Area Agency on Aging for Kent, Caroline, and Talbot counties, operating five senior centers and providing services for over 31,000 seniors each year.

With this new funding, Upper Shore Aging will establish an AmeriCorps Seniors Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) in each of the three counties. RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for people 55 and over.

RSVP will partner with local agencies and recruit and place volunteers with the purpose of meeting critical community needs. Particular emphasis will be placed on the needs of seniors, such as access to care, transportation, social isolation, and food insecurity.

“RSVP will serve a dual purpose” said Mavis Jones, RSVP Director for Kent County. “RSVP will provide a high-quality experience for senior volunteers with opportunities that are tailored to their interests, skills and expertise, while meeting the mission of many organizations that use volunteers”.

“There are many benefits to joining the RSVP network,”saidJones. RSVP will be considered a “one stop shop”, where volunteers looking for opportunities can be matched with organizations looking for volunteers. “It’s a win-win situation”. “Organizations will get the volunteer help that they need, and senio rvolunteers will have the chance to learn new skills, utilize the skills they have and become involved in activities that will benefit the local community”. Other RSVP benefits to the volunteer include volunteer recognition, supplemental automobile and personal liability insurance, and meal and mileage reimbursement while serving.

If you are a local agency looking for volunteers or if you are 55 years and older and are interested in volunteering, consider becoming involved with RSVP. There is no fee to join.

For additional information, call or email:

Mavis Jones, Kent County 410-708-6610/ mjones@uppershoreaging.org

Doris Mason, Talbot County 410 829-3463/ dmason@uppershoreaging.org

Paula Dixon, Caroline County 410 725-4275 / pdixon@uppershoreaging.org

Visit Kent County RSVP Facebook at www.facebook.com/RSVPKentCountyMD/

Website coming soon!

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Reflects on 2021 and Shares Appreciation for Campus Community

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The Londonderry on the Tred Avon Community is grateful for a successful and healthy 2021 amidst the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“2021 was our year to ‘get back to normal’,” said Irma Toce, Londonderry on the Tred Avon CEO. “Thanks to the commitment of our residents, their families and our team to everyone’s health and safety, we were able to accomplish that goal and reestablish a sense of normalcy on campus this year.”

Following a successful community vaccine clinic and improving COVID-19 metrics, Londonderry was able to reopen community dining and resume activities and wellness programs in March.

Londonderry residents Evelyn Graybeal and Nancy Collins with the “mirror man” at Londonderry’s 30th Anniversary Celebration.

“The hardest thing about COVID was the isolation, which is already a concern and challenge for seniors,” said Londonderry Activities Coordinator, Erica Hardeo. “It was a blessing to be able to reestablish a sense of connection and see everyone in person. Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the Delta variant, our campus remained open with a full activities and events calendar. This was only possible because our residents and staff prioritized the health and safety of each other and our entire community.”

Highlights from 2021 include Londonderry’s 30th Anniversary Celebration in October, Dream Flights for resident WWII veterans in August at the Easton Airport, the Summer Concert Series, Flavors of Fall Dinner, October Car Show and the return of off-campus trips.

“We are excited for 2022 and where our 31st year will take us!” said Hardeo.

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.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Named Best Retirement Community, Best Place to Work and Best Company Culture in Best of the Best Chesapeake

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Londonderry on the Tred Avon is pleased to announce that it has been named the Best Retirement Community, Best Place to Work and Best Company Culture in the 2021 Best of the Best Chesapeake awards.

The 2021 Best of the Best Chesapeake is the official community and readers’ choice awards for the Mid-Shore. The program is organized by APG Chesapeake, the parent company of The Star Democrat.

“Our residents and entire team are thrilled to be recognized by our friends and neighbors,” said Rachel Smith, Sales and Marketing Director. “As we have worked to ‘get back to normal’ in 2021, these awards are especially sweet as it has been our focus on strength of community and caring campus culture that has kept us going over the past two years.”

Londonderry was first nominated by community members in the first round in July, and then advanced to the second round of five finalists where it received the most votes in three categories in September. Winners were announced at an Oscars-style event at the Chesapeake Bay Hyatt in Cambridge earlier this month.

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.

Edna Parks Celebrates 107th Birthday at Dixon House

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Pictured behind Edna Parks (seated) are her son Roger Parks, daughter-in-law Betty Parks, and granddaughter Kathy Taylor.

Edna Parks of Trappe, MD, recently celebrated her 107th birthday at Dixon House, where she is a resident. Parks, who lived her life in Talbot County, entered Dixon House in May 2019. Before that, she lived independently until age 102, when she went to live with her son Roger Parks and his wife for two years.

Pictured behind Edna Parks (seated) are left to right dignitaries Senator Addie Eckardt, Mayor, and Mrs. Robert Willey, First Sergeant James Dobson, Captain Steve Elliot, and Delegate Johnny Mautz.

For her birthday celebration, family and dignitaries gathered to celebrate with Parks. Edna Parks has three children: Roger Parks, Kenny Parks, and Eunice Roe. She also has seven grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren.

The mission of The Dixon House is to provide high-quality and affordable residential care to seniors in an enriching home-like environment. For further information, contact Linda Elben, Executive Director at 410-822-6661 or visit dixonhouse.org.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon Celebrates 30 Years with “Cirque du Londonderry”

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More than 180 residents and community members gathered “under the big top” on Thursday, September 30th to celebrate Londonderry on the Tred Avon’s 30th Anniversary at a Cirque du Soliel themed party.

“After such a long wait due to COVID, it felt wonderful to finally gather together as a community to cheers to three decades of Londonderry,” said Rachel Smith, Sales and Marketing Director. “Londonderry is a very special place, and the events of the past two years have made us even more grateful for all our reasons to celebrate.”

The tented event was held on the grounds of Magnolia Manor on the Londonderry campus, and attendees were treated to entertainment from the Sweet Something Band, circus performers including a mirror man, LED juggler, and stilt walker, and food from Blue Heron Catering.

Easton Mayor Robert Willey and his wife, Betsy, signed the 30th Anniversary whiskey barrel top that was autographed by everyone in attendance.

In attendance were Senator Addie Eckardt, Delegate Johnny Mautz and Easton Town Councilmembers Al Silverstein and Ron Engle. Londonderry also received citations from Governor Larry Hogan, the Maryland Senate, the Maryland House of Delegates and the Talbot County Council.

Londonderry was established in 1991 as the Londonderry Retirement Community on some of Talbot County’s most historic land and remains the first resident-owned and operated independent living cooperative of its kind on the Eastern Shore.

Londonderry has grown from its first 15 individual cottages and 17 residents to a vibrant community of over120 cottages, 26 apartments and more than 150 residents. Londonderry has also added more amenities and facilities to meet the needs of residents and their families, which include the Magnolia Manor House, Pool, Clubhouse, expanded green space and access to the Tred Avon River, and the new Community Center that was completed in 2018.

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

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

Dixon House Gentlemen Share Camaraderie

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For the first time in a while, there are several male residents at The Dixon House, an independent and assisted living home for elderly men and women in Easton. Dixon House was founded in 1910 as the Home for the Aged Women of Talbot and Caroline counties – specifically helping senior women who needed comfortable and affordable homes.

In 1984, to commemorate the Dixon family who helped to found the “home,” the Board of Directors renamed it The Dixon House. It was at this same time that men were accepted for admission. Since its inception over 110 years ago, The Dixon House remains committed to the enrichment of the lives of the residents it serves.

From left to right are residents of The Dixon House Henry Lane, Richard Sturmer, and Bud Tardiff.

“This past year, we have had more men come to the Dixon House than in previous years. New residents Henry Lane, Richard Sturmer, and Bud Tardiff have enjoyed getting to know one another. Each of these men has lived a rich professional and personal life worth sharing,” comments Linda Elben, Executive Director of The Dixon House.

Henry Lane was born in 1950 in Easton, Maryland. He attended Country School and then went away to Tabor Academy, a boarding school, for his high school years. After graduating from Franklin and Marshall College, he worked as a history and English teacher in Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, and Maine. He also coached lacrosse, squash, and soccer, as well as worked with high school yearbooks and newspapers. After retiring from teaching English, he began a tutoring business for English and SAT Prep and then retired to Florida. He also engaged in his childhood passion for sailing, bought a catamaran, and sailed solo around the Caribbean, and sailed across the Atlantic Ocean, writing the book “Sailing Mystique Solo.” He has two children and two grandchildren.

Richard Sturmer, the newest resident at Dixon House, was born in 1930 in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Lehigh University, getting a bachelor of science degree in Industrial Engineering. He learned computers in the Navy and then had a career with Dixie Cup, followed by work with veteran hospitals before retiring to upstate New York. In his later years, he taught English in China and was a substitute teacher. His volunteer work included serving on town boards, the Lions Club, and the Republican Club. He is currently married and has three children, four stepchildren, 10 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Bud Tardiff was born in 1931 in Leominster, Massachusetts. He attended West Point, graduating in the top 20 percent of his class. Marrying right after college, he entered the Air Force and focused on its nuclear program. After living in Germany for three years, he returned to the U.S. and attended advanced school for nuclear power plants. His accomplishments included planning for nuclear power plants on the Russian/Canadian border. He later worked with England and Germany on nuclear projects there. One of his most rewarding efforts was taking a team to 12 countries in South America, Europe, and Asia to evaluate countries’ capability to handle nuclear power. After retiring from the Air Force, he worked for Argon National Laboratories. He was an Eagle Scout as a teenager and worked with the Boy Scouts as an adult. He has three children, nine grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

For further information about The Dixon House, call Linda Elben at 410-822-6661 or visit dixonhouse.org.