Month: July 2025

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Like many people, we only recently learned about the Wellness House of Annapolis but heard good things about it from friends. When we arranged to meet Executive Director Mary Jermann for a tour of the house, we discovered it was in an unexpected pastoral location in the midst of urban sprawl off Forest Drive.

Entering the property at 2625 Mas Que Farm Road through a substantial white gate, we found a modest but welcoming farmhouse surrounded by flowers. Stepping inside, we noted a wide assortment of informative pamphlets as well as an equestrian riding helmet and ribbons, (likely a nod to the Wellness House’s popular Healing with Horses program).

Jermann greeted us in the reception area and led us upstairs to her office for an informal chat about Wellness House of Annapolis’ free programs and services for those affected by cancer.

We’d first met Mary Jermann when she was Director of Volunteer Services at Hospice of the Chesapeake. Now in her sixth year as executive director, she clearly loves her job and bubbles with enthusiasm for the work.

“The Wellness House was conceived by Dr. Kelly Sullivan to offer social and therapeutic programs to individuals diagnosed with cancer as well as their family members,” she said. “Incredibly, all of our organization’s programs are offered free of charge.”

Dr. Sullivan, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Annapolis, Maryland has performed hundreds of reconstructive procedures on cancer patients. Over time, she became acutely aware of the physical, emotional and financial burdens experienced by these patients and their families. After researching centers in other communities that offered support to such families, she realized that Annapolis didn’t have anything comparable.

In 2007, with the help of the Annapolis Rotary Club, Dr. Sullivan founded the Wellness House of Annapolis. Local philanthropist Janet Richardson-Pearson generously donated the use of the picturesque, historic farmhouse on Mas Que Farm Road, and Wellness House of Annapolis opened its doors to the public in 2009.

“It’s kind of our mantra that, when a parent or sibling has cancer, the entire family is affected – a fact that ties in with the fact that our benefactor Janet has two adult sons who are survivors of cancer,” Jermann said. “We are able to exist and offer our services cost-free, in large part because she allows us the use of this beautiful house for free.”

She added that Wellness House of Annapolis services are available to those who register to become members. There are currently about 2,000 active members eligible for programs and services though 5,000 members are kept on the registry because cancer sometimes comes back. (They could simply reactivate their membership.) As things stand at the moment, the house averages 100 visits to its programs per week.

When Jermann arrived on the scene as executive director in August of 2019, there were 25 programs. Six years later, that number has doubled to 50 programs, ranging from the practical to the spiritual in nature. As we toured through the house, she pointed out some of the programs – especially those that are her particular favorites.

We walked by a closed-door studio where Krystle Mitchell, a professional Reiki practitioner was volunteering her time for pre-scheduled sessions with members. We’d meet Krystle later.

Instead, we entered a light-filled room with walls of windows that is used for five different yoga programs ranging from Wake-up Gentle Stretch (remote) with certified Yoga Instructor Leah Saliter and Yoga with Kathleen with instructor Kathleen James (in-person) to Oncology Yoga facilitated by instructor Stephanie Gaines-Bryant.

Many group programs are conducted here including the Healing Through Art With Christalene program facilitated by Christalene Karaiskakis whose creative, therapeutic approach is uplifting. The room might also be used for Sound Meditation sessions.

Jermann could not emphasize strongly enough how grateful she and her staff are for the volunteers within the community who are professionals that donate their time and talents to helping members of Wellness House of Annapolis. All told, there are more than 100 volunteers and the organization’s small staff couldn’t stretch far enough without them.

“We even have one massage therapist who has volunteered with us for ten years and drives down from Towson and offers her services one day each month,” she said.

Speaking of counselors, we next moved on to a comfortable room where individual, couples and family counseling is provided. Among other things, counseling is useful for guiding individuals to which services would benefit them. Seven highly qualified counselors, therapists and social workers schedule appointments with members here.

Back downstairs, we came to a comfortable reception area/parlor that is used for various support group meetings, including a coaching group for men with cancer, and occasionally for social gatherings. There we were introduced to Reiki practitioner Krystle Mitchell who had finished her final session for the day in a studio upstairs and stopped by to chat with the staff before leaving.

Talking with Mitchell as she stood next to the piano brought one of Mary Jermann’s favorite programs to mind.

“Our Program & Communications Director Terri Fevang is also a therapeutic musician who has built a Musical Journey for Healing Program for Wellness House in partnership with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra and Annapolis Music Therapy,” she said. “Members of the orchestra will come out to play at Wellness House every now and then.”

Jermann first met Fevang while working at Hospice of the Chesapeake. Fevang is a graduate of The Music for Healing and Transition Program (MHTP) that trains musicians in the art and science of using the transformative healing power of music at the bedside of the sick and dying. She would play her piano for the hospice patients.

Another program the executive director is enthusiastic about is Healing with Horses conceived by Equine Specialist Angie Burnett and led by Director and Certified Equine Gestalt Coach Emma Rogers. Janet Richardson-Pearson personally lends a hand with the program with horses from a dressage center she operates including her horse Whiskey, a beautiful and gentle Gypsy Vanner.

“We find horses to be innately empathetic creatures able to absorb and alleviate some of the pain and anxiety cancer patients feel,” said Jermann.

While waiting for an opportunity to introduce two of the women working in the reception area, Jermann led the way to the lovely patio and backyard of the farmhouse, a popular spot during a recent Wellness House summer camp for 32 children with a parent or loved one battling cancer. The program was called Paint Your Rainbow. Helping children understand what cancer is and how it affects those around them is important, so there are also monthly programs for kids called Follow Your Rainbow.

Shortly thereafter, we made our way to the farmhouse’s airy screened porch and were introduced to Kathy Reents and Jen Caughron, two women who are important to the Wellness House of Annapolis members they routinely interact with.

It was especially enlightening to speak with Kathy Reents as she has been associated with Wellness House almost from its beginnings.

“I’ve been here since July 1, 2014, Reents said. “I’d recently retired and was looking for some place to volunteer to give back. I spotted an ad in The Capital newspaper stating that the Wellness House needed help for a fundraiser they were having. I called Monday and found they did need me for the fundraiser. But I asked if they needed help any other time. They replied that they needed help Tuesday evenings, and I said I could do it. I started the following day, and I’ve been here ever since.”

We noticed, and mentioned, that she constantly seemed to be on the phone setting up schedules of appointments for members and answering questions.

“I love it,” she said. “We help so many people. A lot of people come in and we become their family. Often, they’ll say they don’t have any friends or local family. Even if they have friends, they say it’s difficult for others to understand unless they’ve been through cancer themselves. Friends do provide support but it’s a different kind of support. I’ve seen great friendships develop here because members are so supportive of each other.”

Jen Caughron, the Wellness House of Annapolis Volunteer & Member Manager, shares the reception area office space. She’s been with the organization for two years.

“I love it – both working with volunteers and providing customer service for our members,” Caughron said. “We have about 150 volunteers currently. They run many of the programs or groups. Others help me with administration, answer the phones and do new member calls, welcoming the individual and answering their questions. Together, we help members and members help us in return.”

As we were chatting with Reents and Caughron, Jermann came down the stairs with staff members Marshall Kaputsos and Sophia Berta who began positioning tables for a late afternoon happy hour gathering for a local organization with an interest in seeing the Wellness House and exploring the programs and services it offers the community.

Even as they continued setting up for the 4 pm event, the three chatted about a larger event they are already working on. They are already in the planning and preparation phase for Wellness House’s annual Fall Fundraiser that will be held at the USNA Fluegel Alumni Center on King George Street. It will be a catered affair with an entertaining program and a Silent Auction.

“We are self-sustaining. We exist because the community steps forward,” Jermann says. “The burden that comes with cancer is both emotional and financial as people lose their jobs and bills pile up. As our founder Kelly Sullivan says, it’s vital to keep our services free. We are fortunate to receive donations and we’ve been the benefactors of part of the proceeds from the recent Katherine’s Light Foundation Music Fest (Katherine Mueller, for whom that event is named, was a member and her family still are members.) Nevertheless, we must raise our own funds every year.”

The staff will reveal dates, times and more information about the fundraiser as the date draws near. Meantime, they’ll concentrate on other events, including Zoom classes, a series of workshops and their Wellness Rising Podcasts (of which there are 65 episodes). You can find them all by visiting the Wellness House of Annapolis website Home – Annapolis Wellness House.

The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility whilereducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!

and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.

And Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton). With 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness drivers expect – “every time they visit us.”

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Brought to you by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi,

Lean on Dee Senior Home Care Services,

and Midas of Annapolis & Pasadena

We became aware that the year 2025 was a special one for Park Hardware/Zeskind’s owner Rick Miller, Jr. and his father Rick Miller, Sr. when we visited their tent at the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s SHOP LOCAL Fun Fest in May. The fact that they were celebrating the 100th year of a their five-generation family business was apparent from the banner across one side of their tent.

There was further evidence of the year-long anniversary celebration during the Severna Park Independence Day parade as the Park Hardware float, vintage truck and delivery truck rolled by proclaiming the 100-year anniversary with bold lettering.

Curious to learn more about the celebration and the history of the family business, we met with third-generation owners Rick Miller, Sr. and wife Deborah and fourth-generation owner Rick Miller, Jr. in a comfy conference room.

According to Rick, Sr. and Deborah, who has a passion for genealogy, the business was started in 1925 by Rick’s grandfather and grandmother Sam and Rose Zeskind at the corner of McHenry and Payson Streets in Baltimore.

The store occupied just the bottom floor of the building while a family rented the upper floor. Nevertheless, the fledging business served customers from the neighborhood so well that it became a permanent fixture.

“Things are so different these days from what the hardware business was like at the original Zeskind’s store on Payson Street,” said Deborah Miller. “There was just one large aisle with floor to ceiling shelves. You waited in line and every single person would get waited on by one of the clerks who worked behind the counter. The clerks would literally go up and down the aisle and retrieve whatever items the customer wanted.”

There were small wooden drawers built into one wall that the clerks accessed for certain items. The store also had an ornate tin roof which Rick, Jr. so admired that he had it replicated in the new conference room when creating the Zeskind’s Showroom section of Park Hardware.

Rick, Sr. said his earliest memories are of being in a hardware store. He learned to cut glass as an eight-year-old. He and Deborah traced the succession of family members who succeeded Sam Zeskin to become owners of the business.

It seems that Sam Zeskind’s daughter Miriam fell in love with Rick’s father Irvin Miller whom she lived across the street from. They married and, shortly thereafter, Irvin went off to war. He served his country until the very end of World War II. When he came back, he worked in the Baltimore Zeskind’s store with father-in-law Sam until it was decided they’d expand the business. Irvin and Miriam, (who had worked at Zeskin’s Hardware along with her three sisters), opened Woodlawn Paint & Hardware together.

Rick, Sr. became emotional when recalling that he grew up spending time in the Woodlawn store with his parents absorbing everything around him. Sadly, Rick’s father Irving passed away in 1963 when he was 10 years old.

By 1968, the youngster was back working with his grandfather Sam at the Baltimore store. Surprisingly, the family that lived upstairs at 222 Payson Street were among the first lottery winners. They bought a new car and moved to Florida leaving the upper floor vacant.

“Sam then gave me the upstairs,” Miller said. “I installed shelves up there and I filled them with stock. I doubled the amount of stuff we could sell.”

By 1971, he had met Deborah and had, more or less, taken over running the store for Sam.

“When I first met Rick, he took me down to the store and the neighborhood was just beautiful – an absolutely lovely section of town,” said Deborah. “Nobody there ever locked their doors.”

In 1973 Rick and Deborah married. The following year, Deb convinced her husband, at just 20 years of age, to ask Sam if he’d like to sell him the Baltimore store. Business was kind of slow at the time (the store having been temporarily taken over by someone who ran it into the ground). It was making just a couple of hundred dollars a week.

Within one year after taking over, Rick, Sr. had the vendors paid off and the store was operating at a profit. The business was not only selling hardware then but was also doing roofing and plumbing and selling windows.

“Deborah took care of the books and I focused mainly on hardware,” Miller said. “By the time we were running the business, the city was changing and not for the better. Our store went through the 1968 riots and also the Freddie Gray riots. But we survived. We always helped out in the neighborhood even if it meant going to peoples’ homes. So, we remained untouched by the bombings because neighbors from all around came out on the streets to say ‘Don’t touch that building’.”

“In the city in those days, I would repair 10 or 12 windows a day,” he added. “They’d get shot out or bricked out. In fact, that was a big part of our business.”

Like his father, Rick Miller, Jr. worked at Zeskind’s from the time he was 13 doing screen and window repairs and handling other responsibilities. While attending college in Salisbury, he’d come home and work weekends to “keep his touch”.

After graduating from Salisbury University Purdue School of Business (UMES) as a finance major in 2001, Miller gained experience working for several companies in the construction and building materials sales industries. He eventually acquired one of the companies he’d worked for, Lamar & Wallace.

In 2008, Rick, Jr. joined the business full-time with an aim to modernize and expand it.

“When I initially came into the company as Vice President, I took over roughly 50% of it,” he said. “As I grew things from there, we acquired more buildings, including a warehouse at 207 Payson Street, and hired more people as we entered the manufacturing business. I set up point-of-sales and accounting systems as part of the Millwork Division that I brought to the table.”

Miller explained that the term “millwork” refers to products that come out of a mill or factory – mostly finished wood products like pre-hung interior doors, windows or custom cabinets. He noted that the hardware store is currently about 10 or 15 percent of the total company while the millwork is the major focus.

Under Rick, Jr.’s leadership the company grew substantially over a period of 10 years. In 2019, he completed a buyout of Zeskind’s and opened a showroom at Arnold Station.

The showroom was doing well. But following a fire, Zeskind’s Hardware and millwork shop in Baltimore had moved across Payson Street to a separate location. Four years after opening the Arnold Station Showroom in 2023, Rick Miller, Jr. learned that Gordon Clement had decided to sell Clement Hardware in Severna Park – another multi-generational family business that had operated since 1969 and was much beloved by the community even though big box stores were in competition.

The Miller family was already well acquainted with Clement Hardware. Deborah and Rick, Sr. had moved from Baltimore to Severna Park in the 1970’s and it’s where Rick, Jr. grew up. They’d even occasionally stop by Clement Hardware to pick up something they needed quickly though they owned a Baltimore hardware store.

Rick, Jr. immediately recognized the potential of the popular business and arranged to buy it from Clement. After the sale was finalized in April of 2023, we were introduced to then brand- new owner Rick Miller, Jr. by Gordon following their meeting over donuts at Donut Shack. Miller noted that Clement was being quite helpful with the transition.

Glancing across Ritchie Highway toward Clement Hardware with its well-lit red and white sign as they were about to part, Miller mentioned that he’d be renaming the store but would not immediately change the sign.

“I just didn’t feel right putting our family business’ name on his family business,” he said. “We came up with the concept of calling it Park Hardware because it is in Severna Park and other businesses like Park Tavern also associate their names with the community.”

Miller added that he planned to move the millwork showroom from Arnold to the back part of the hardware store.

Within a month or two, Miller and his staff did, in fact, do a total refresh inside and outside of the store but kept everything Clement Hardware offered as a service and kept Clement’s entire staff.

Though extensive, the remodel managed to retain a substantial part of what once made Clement Hardware a household name. According all three Millers, they still hear people walking through the hardware store refer to it as “Clement’s” because they’re seeing the same or similar products and services.

From paint and tools to barbecue grills, customers will find many familiar products.

The Zeskind’s Door, Window and Millwork Showroom at the back of the store is quite an impressive addition, however, from its very welcoming counter to the products within.

Entering the showroom, customers who haven’t visited previously will be dazzled by the selection of doors and windows displayed.

They’ll be equally astonished by wall upon wall of fixtures and hardware. Between the hardware store and the showroom, customers can find almost anything they need for a DIY or construction project of any magnitude.

“I must say that we have a lot of contractors coming into the store regularly. They might just come in at first to buy screws or a hammer but then they notice that we sell doors, windows and molding. They might just have a job coming up that will require those products,” Rick, Jr. said. “In that way, we’ve attracted many contractors who are now regular customers.”

Rick, Sr. agrees with his son that, since buying the store from Gordon Clement, the business has done well but is constantly evolving. As the company’s owner and president, Rick has dealt with a number of changes this year including moving the manufacturing operation from an oversized, expanded space back to their facility on Payson Street in Baltimore that is better suited.

Deborah, who kept the books and acted as CFO until recently, decided to step back. Rick, Sr. loves taking care of the hardware store as much as ever. He’s quite busy loading and unloading trucks, doing repairs, placing orders, doing inventory and handling customer service. It’s interacting with customers that keeps a smile on his face.

All three of them – especially Deborah – were eager to acquaint me with the new fifth-generation member of the Miller hardware dynasty. In fact, Deborah walked me forward to meet her granddaughter Chloe Miller who is now working behind the hardware store counter.

We couldn’t possibly leave without asking Rick, Jr. and Rick, Sr. what Park Hardware has planned for Saturday, September 20th – the day they have set aside for a Celebration and Customer Appreciation Day.

According to Rick, Jr., the celebration has been planned with helping other family businesses in mind. In the morning there will be a family business food truck on the parking lot with free donuts for customers who have made a Park Hardware purchase. Between 11 am and 2 pm, the nearby family business Jeno’s Steaks from Olde Severna Park will have their truck onsite giving out free slices of cheesesteaks or hoagies to Park Hardware purchasers. Afterward, the Go Melvo Snow Cone truck will arrive to give out free snow cones to purchasers.

If you would like to see a bit more history about Zeskind’s or view showroom products, visit the special website Home – Zeskind’s (zeskinds.com) or, to keep up with what Park Hardware is doing (including their upcoming Fall Native Plant Sale) visit Park Hardware.

AAUW BOOK SALE COLLECTION SCHEDULE WITH DATES AND SITES FOR PICK-UP

Alice Harrison, Publicity Chair for the American Association of University Women Anne Arundel Branch, sent us the collection schedule for folks to donate books for the organization’s autumn book sale. The dates for all three locations are August 16th, September 6th and 20th, and October 4th and 18th between 9 am and noon each day.

The locations are the same as last year:

Annapolis – St. Phillip’s Church, Bestgate Road

Arnold – YMCA of Central Maryland – West Campus Drive off Rt. 2 (Ritchie Hwy.) parking lot

Severna Park – St. Martin’s-in-the-field Church, 375 Benfield Road

We’ll have the dates and location for the eagerly anticipated Autumn Booksale (usually in November) at a later time. For information on AAUW and to follow the organization’s activities, visit AAUW Anne Arundel County (MD) Branch.

The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility whilereducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!

and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.

And Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton). With 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness drivers expect – “every time they visit us.”

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Brought to you by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi,

Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services,

and Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena

An impressive closing ceremony for Grandmaster Chen ZhengLei’s Light of Tai Chi Training Camp (to which the public was invited) took place Monday evening at Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi as a tumultuous thunderstorm raged. Hosts Billy and Nancy Greer were pleased the storm didn’t keep people from coming. There was a good turnout for the event.

Born in Chenjiagou Village, Henan Province, China, Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei is a 19th generation of the Chen family and 11th generation direct-line successor of Chen Family-style taijiquan (Tai Chi). He is one of the “Top Ten Martial Arts Masters” in China recognized by the Chinese Wushu Association for his mastery in Tai Chi. His internationally renowned Light of Tai Chi training camp began in 2011 and has been hosted in various locations around the world since then.

The 76-year-old author and teacher has visited Maryland for over 25 years to share the art of Chen-style tai chi with participants. Although he has been to Jing Ying many times over the years, until last year, the Light of TaiChi training camp had never been held on the East Coast. Last year’s event was so successful, they decided to bring the camp to Jing Ying Institute for a second time this year.

While waiting by the door to welcome guests in from the rain, Nancy Greer pointed out that visitors come to the camp from across the country but primarily from Canada and the East Coast states of New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia as well as Washington, D.C.

The last guest to arrive, Maryland State Senator Clarence Lam, was escorted to his seat just as the ceremony was about to begin. Scattered throughout the audience there were a number of Light of Tai Chi trainees who attended the four-day camp wearing bright blue shirts.

Jack Yan, a tai chi master from Canada, acted as translator for the Chen family and emceed the closing ceremony. He began the program with a well-known Chinese song about Tai Chi. A number of audience members of oriental heritage knew the song and sang along.

As host of the event, Jing Ying Institute’s Billy Greer appeared first in a whirl of bright orange and yellow as he demonstrated an exercise using a dragon ribbon.

“In China, the Dragon Ribbon is promoted as an exercise for the elderly, but, as you can see, this exercise is a lot of work,” said Greer. “If you’re not old when you try this, you feel old by the time you’re finished unlike tai chi that leaves you feeling younger when practiced.”

Following the exercise, Greer introduced Wendy Ng, a longtime member of the Jing Ying family who is talented in calligraphy, art and music. Ng demonstrated the art of African drumming, one of many musical techniques she has mastered.

Wendy Ng was also one of five Jing Ying Institute students/instructors who attended The Light of Tai Chi Training Camp and were inducted as 13th generation disciples into the Chen Family Tai Chi lineage under Chen ZhengLei and Shifu Billy Greer in a special “Bai Shi” ceremony. The other inductees included Dean Bowers, Chris Lee, Dorothy Lee and Melissa Wittke.

The entire Chen family came to the United States for this year’s Light of Tai Chi Training Camp, making it a historic moment as it was the first time the whole family had been on US
soil at the same time.

Thus, Yan next introduced Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei and his wife Li Lilli along with daughters Chen Juan and Chen Yuanyuan and son Chen Xiaobin who are high ranking Tai Chi Masters in their own right.

Once those introductions were complete, he introduced Maryland State Senator Clarence Lam who presented a citation to Chen Zhenglei from the Maryland General Assembly. As the only Asian member of the Maryland State Senate, Lam was honored to recognize the Grand Master for bringing his expertise in Tai Chi to Maryland.

Immediately thereafter, Senator Lam also presented a citation from the Maryland General Assembly to Jing Ying Institute owners Nancy and Billy Greer who, coincidentally, are celebrating their school’s 25th Anniversary. Lam noted that presenting the citation was a way of thanking the Greers for the institute’s hard work and generosity in raising and donating more than $170,000 to community charities over the years.

Next in the program came a demonstration of the art of Tai Chi from China by Chen Zhenglei’s youngest daughter and high-ranking master Chen Yuanyuan. Her graceful but powerfully executed series of Chen-style Tai Chi movements were performed to a moody but lovely soundtrack and were fascinating to view.

The audience was treated to a second demonstration by Zhenglei’s equally accomplished older daughter Juan who has traveled the world teaching the Tai Chi sword techniques she exhibited throughout her astonishing performance.

Lastly, as hosts to The Light of Tai Chi training camp, the Greers presented a special offering of their own. They began with a demonstration of mirror-like Tai Chi exercises that quickly morphed into an amusing and expertly executed jitterbug that had audience members cheering and grabbing their smartphones to record the action. They received thunderous applause.

The final presentation by Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei’s son Chen Xiaobin was a Push Hands demonstration with disciple Chad who traveled to the camp from another state. The demonstration involved mirror-like postures from the two men with hands joined and in continuous motion. Again, it was fascinating to watch.

The entire Chen family assembled for the final honor of the traditional closing ceremony with Senator Lam pinch-hitting for Governor Wes Moore who was unable to attend. Lam presented a last citation to Grandmaster Chen Zhenglei from the governor’s office.

Gifts from Jing Ying Institute to each member of the Chen family and to Jack Yan were presented by the Greers and the evening ended as it had begun – with a Chinese song.

Lemonade Stand Fundraiser for Local Boy with Cancer on B&A Trail July 20th

The Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails will be opening a lemonade stand to raise funds to support Clyde Hicks, a young boy who is battling cancer on July 20th from 9 am to 11 am along the Trail at the Earleigh Heights Ranger Station. Learn all about the Friends of Anne Arundel County Trails and support Clyde by buying a cold cup of lemonade. (Clyde’s baseball team is teaming up with the Friends to support the youngster and his family.) 

The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility whilereducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!

and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.

And Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton). With 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness drivers expect – “every time they visit us.”

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Brought to you by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi,

Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services,

and Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena

In the 50 years since the official beginning of the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s Severna Park 4th of July Parade in 1975, there’s never been anything quite as exciting as watching those crowd-pleasing neighborhood floats appear at the top of Riggs Avenue enroute to the judge’s stand in the middle of town.

This year’s Olde Severna Park Improvement Association float managed to capture the early 70’s spirit of the year the Chamber launched its first parade five decades ago. From the “Peace, Love, Groovy” sign on the front of the float to the kids on board wearing tie-dyed t-shirts, psychedelic sunglasses, and crowns of daisies in young girls’ hair, all hinted at the bygone era when float designer Lew Heck created his Peace Dove Float from chicken wire and Kleenex. Is it any wonder Olde Severna Park won the chamber’s Best Theme award?

With 100 parade entries, there were more floats to come as well as many traditional elements. As always, patriotism played a significant role. Spectators lining the parade route were excited to see firetrucks from Earleigh Heights Volunteer Company at the head of the parade down Benfield and Evergreen Roads before cresting the hill at Riggs Avenue and roaring into Olde Severna Park with sirens screaming.

The appearance of the Nathan McDavitt Memorial Flag, as it was maneuvered by Cub Scout Troop 855 past the judges stand and onto Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard to a patriotic soundtrack, had everyone holding their hands over their hearts.

Color guards including one from the Anne Arundel County Department of Detention Center and another from the Anne Arundel County Marine Corp 1049 Color Guard came next.

They were followed by the parade’s 50th Anniversary Grand Marshall, Severna Park native and town Historian Scott Jay – a tremendously popular choice.

With 96 entries to go, we can’t picture them all but feature some of our favorites with a bit of information about each. In addition to some of the school’s students, Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi’s “Lion” made its 24th Severna Park Independence Day Parade appearance, Lion-Dancing in and out of the crowds along the parade route.

According to owners Nancy and Billy Greer, Jing Ying Institute was the first martial arts business to appear in the parade as far as they know. (In later years, Kogen Dojo and Kwon’s Taekwondo became participants.)

“We’d opened our school in 2000, but too late to be able to enter the parade. So, we entered for the first time in 2001 and have appeared ever since with Tai Chi demonstrations and our lion,” Billy said. “We’ve also been a parade sponsor for the Best Overall float category for many years.”

The 206 Restaurant Group, owners of JB’s, Park Tavern, Donelly’s Dockside and the about-to-open-in-Millersville Oliver Brewing Company had a huge presence with marchers from all four businesses.

Their presentation was capped off by the appearance of the Oliver Brewing Company “Beer” to much acclaim from all who observed it.

Having opened in Davidsonville in 1973, Homestead Gardens has had a float in almost all of the Severna Park Parades. This year’s float honored America’s heroes.

As expected, the Round Bay neighborhood had an extraordinary float earning them 2nd Place in the Best Community Float category.

A group of marchers from Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services, a multi-year parade participant and annual sponsor of the chamber’s Decorated Bicycle Contest, came next. Just behind them were two gaggles of kids riding fancifully turned-out two-wheelers while competing on the contest for 1st, 2nd or 3rd place.

Vintage cars, ranging from a 1928 Model A Ford to 1950’s muscle cars and mid-60’s Corvettes appeared off and on throughout the parade. We especially loved the pale yellow 1948 Ford convertible from Street Survivors pictured below.

We also loved the gents from Edgewater-based MAD Soaps Marine & Auto Detailing decked out in powdered wigs and 1776 attire and making patriotic proclamations through a megaphone alternated with cries of “USA, USA”.

Parade watchers all along the route were not only surprised but in awe of the Linstead community’s magnificent “Chessie” which earned them both the Best Overall and Best Community titles. It appeared that the entire neighborhood turned out to escort Chessie down Benfield and Evergreen Road before cresting the hill at Riggs Avenue and passing before the judges.

The Magothy River Association’s working “Mills that Made the Magothy” water wheel earned admiration from all who viewed it as well. The ingenious float earned the association the Best Nonprofit title. MRA volunteers also handed out educational placemats to youngsters along the way to inspire them to help protect our watershed.

Music came back to the parade for the 50th Anniversary with the reappearance of the Woods Church Praise Band and the Severna Park High School Band. (There was even an actual majorette from The Sheridan Assisted Living.)

A new musical touch was added by a trio riding on the Trinity Bible Church float.

Multi-year participants, singers from The Chesapeake Harmony Chorus twirled their red, white and blue umbrellas while singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” as they marched by the judges.

Horses were back for the 50th Anniversary parade with Wild Kids Acre’s “Little Pony”, a mule and assorted horses ridden by lariat twirling caballeros. A guy with a shovel followed them.

Not only was there a Little Pony, there were also Little Houses from Jean and Christine and their Long & Foster crew.

Park Books and SPAN, Inc. had their own little houses.

New neighborhoods Severndale and Severna Forest participated in this year’s parade. The Severna Forest Float was particularly patriotic.

We could not fail to mention the parade’s most unique entry, two portable toilets from Gotugo complete with sound effects that wobbled past the judge’s stand to resounding laughter from the crowd.

And, of course, no Severna Park parade would be complete without an appearance by Rod Reddish and a contingent of talented riders from Pedal Pushers who were riding Penny Farthing’s and other historic or unique bikes.

There was so much more to see with entries from local businesses, schools, churches and organizations who have participated in the parade multiple times. Lew Heck’s iconic Eagle was back once more but, without the Indian chief in the canoe it wasn’t quite the same (since the float was inspired by the Native Americans who used the banks of the Magothy and Severn as their hunting grounds). A Kinder Farm vintage tractor and a few 4H members made a return after a few years’ absence but in a more limited way.

What was truly great about the 50th Anniversary Severna Park 4th of July Parade was that it continues to attract large crowds and is one of Anne Arundel County’s biggest draws. People turn out from Annapolis, Arnold, Severna Park, Pasadena, Millersville, Crofton, Glen Burnie and as far afield as Baltimore. Spectators look for seats wherever they can find them, along the curb of a sidewalk or in the bed of a truck as seen below.

It was a pleasure to view the Severna Park 4th of July Parade at its 50-year mark, and from what we observed, it’s clear that the chamber’s biggest annual event will just keep rolling along.

With the end of the 4th of July Parade, spectators flock to Diehl’s Produce

As always, Diehl’s Produce at the corner of B&A Boulevard and McKinsey Road was a major attraction before, during and after Severna Park’s 4th of July Parade. Paradegoers just flocked to the familiar red and white striped tents.

We caught up with manager Jennifer Diehls who told us that the 4th of July is always one of the stand’s busiest times.

“We have some really great produce this year. Our Eastern Shore Corn, picked this morning, is really delicious, Jenn said. “And, we have several varieties of Adams County, Pennsylvania peaches and blueberries that our customers just love.”

The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility whilereducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!

and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.

And Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton). With 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness drivers expect – “every time they visit us.”

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Brought to you by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi,

Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services,

and Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena

Some local farmer’s markets and produce stands are already open for the season. However, those of us who love to cook delight in buying field-to-farmstand fruits and vegetables so we keep an eye on the cornfields and faithfully follow the Facebook pages of our favorite farms.

That’s why we were thrilled when the Chase’s Produce – Fruits and Vegetables, Fresh Produce (chasesproduce.com) website and Facebook page proclaimed that the stand would open July 1st. We, naturally, made a beeline for it that very day driving across Rt. 424 through Davidsonville and arriving in the early afternoon.

While the farmstand is generally busy, we never imagined we’d have trouble finding a parking place. Fortunately, a car pulled out and we slipped into the empty space.

We quite enjoyed the bustling scene before us as farm owners Bob and Marge Chase hustled to wait on customers. They were helped by this year’s part-time workers Natalie and Miranda who stood out from the crowd in their blue and red Chase Produce shirts featuring smiling corncobs. This year is Miranda Whetzell ‘s ninth working at the stand. Along with a second part-time job, working at Chase’s Produce each summer enabled her to attend and complete her education as a psychology major at the University of Maryland without any debt.

First-of-the-season vegetables, ranging from tomatoes, zucchini and yellow squash to peppers, cucumbers, potatoes and corn, looked great and were well priced.

Customers had a ball picking out the tastiest looking fruits and vegetables with an eye to what they’d be serving for dinner. Almost all the shoppers flocked to the orange baskets spilling over with sweet corn and selected anywhere between three and a dozen ears.

Six-dollar boxes of tomatoes and peaches were selling quickly along with cherries and other fruit. Bob Chase could occasionally be seen behind the stand putting together additional boxes of each to replace empty spaces on the shelves.

Cantaloupes were definitely in demand with just six left on the shelf and only half a dozen more in the bed of the wagon. At that point, Chase took off on a farm ATV across one of his cornfields to resupply, leaving wife Marge and the girls to run the stand. Luckily, Marge found time between waiting on customers to update us on how the 2025 season has been progressing at the farm.

She reminded us that the produce stand was temporarily open back in May for their annual Pick Your Own Strawberry season. The popular event draws pickers from around Anne Arundel County and as far away as Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.

“Contrary to what we figured might be a foreshortened picking season due to intermittent rains, we found our fields and berries held up well,” she said. “We did great and managed to sell plenty of strawberries.”

We learned from Marge that the farmstand will be open weekdays from Monday through Thursday from 2 pm till 6:30. This Friday, July 4th and on Saturday and Sunday the stand will open at 10 am and close at 5 pm. For daily updates on the schedule visit Facebook or Chase’s Produce – Fruits and Vegetables, Fresh Produce (chasesproduce.com).

Chase’s is one of the few farmstands that primarily sources its produce locally along with nearby Marco Ridge Farm. The Marco Ridge stand customarily opens for the season on the 4th of July but, as their Facebook page notes, the corn is not quite ready so there will be a slight wait. There are cucumbers for sale, however, on the wagon in front of the stand. Stay tuned for opening day by visiting Facebook.

Our Anne Arundel County farmer’s markets opened in April with early-season vegetables primarily from the Eastern Shore. Diehl’s Produce in Severna Park and Diehl’s Produce of Annapolis also opened in April as they source some of their flowers and produce from states further south.

Located close to the Severna Park 4th of July Parade route at B&A Boulevard and McKinsey Road, Diehl’s is a popular stop-off for attendees. In fact, we’ll be among those visiting.

We did happen to visit the Pumphrey’s Farm stand in Millersville last week and found it fully open with a full selection of vegetables (with the exception of their usual hot pepper varieties). Curiously, no one was minding the stand while we shopped so we paid on the honor system.

Grandmaster Chen ZhengLei’s Light of Tai Chi training camp opens July 11th at Jing Ying Institute

Since its inception in 2011 by Grandmaster Chen ZhengLei, The Light of Tai Chi training camp has traveled to a variety of locations each year. Last year marked the first time the event was held on the East Coast, and it is returning this year to the Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi from July 11 through July 14.

We learned from Jing Ying Institute owners Nancy and Billy Greer that, in addition to the training camp for registered students, there will be free public events, including special closing ceremonies and presentations on Monday July 14 from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm.

The Greers added that Grandmaster Chen ZhengLei has been officially recognized as a Top Ten Living Martial Artist of China and has traveled to over 40 countries to share his family art. He is a descendant of the gentleman credited with creating tai chi. Over the years, he has met with a number of world leaders.

Maryland is one of the few states ZhengLei visits regularly when he comes to the USA and Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi is the only official branch of the Chen ZhengLei TaiJiQuan Federation in the USA. For more information on the event, visit Best Martial Arts Program in Annapolis, Severna Park (jingying.org).

Severna Park’s 50th Anniversary 4th of July Parade from 10 am till noon Friday

A reminder from the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce that Friday’s 50th Anniversary Severna Park 4th of July Parade will be held from 10 am till noon. Parade entries will step off from either Our Shepherd Lutheran Church or St. Martin’s in-the-Field Episcopal Church at 10, traverse the length of Benfield Road, turn right onto Riggs Avenue and proceed to the center of Olde Severna Park where the Judge’s Stand is located. Serving as Grand Marshall of the parade this year is Severna Park historian Scott Jay. We’ll see you there.

The Around The Park Again column is brought to you this week by Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu and Tai Chi at 1195 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. – For over two decades providing martial arts training that improves cardio-vascular health, strength and flexibility whilereducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center. From health-defense to self-defense, Jing Ying provides fitness with a purpose for the whole family!

and by Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services at 815 Ritchie Hwy., Suite 206 – When you need someone to lean on, Lean On Dee. Their experienced team of personal care management specialists and friendly companions provide high quality consistent care.

And Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton). With 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness drivers expect – “every time they visit us.”