Category: AROUND THE PARK AGAIN

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Easter weekend proved a marvelous time to open the Severna Park Farmer’s Market for the season. Skies were clear with the occasional cloud and the temperatures were just right for customers to stroll about in shirtsleeves. Entering the north end of the market at 11 am, we found a busy scene indeed. In addition to shoppers who’d come on their own looking for farm fresh products for Easter dinner, there were lots of families with children and pets soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Pups of all sizes and breeds love coming to the farmer’s market. A favorite stop for many is The Spoiled Dog Bakery where their owners might treat them to one of owner Dianell Ashe’s gourmet dog biscuits.

Canines and their masters were also drawn to the Morris Hill Farm tent where the smell of grilling bacon, sausages and pasture-raised eggs for the breakfast sandwiches they were selling was irresistible.

“This is the first time we’ve tried offering breakfast sandwiches. We’ve been so successful that we’ve completely run out,” Haberkorn said.

Breakfast was available at the Baltimore Waffle Company tent too. Greg Grabowski, who was making the Liege Style Belgian Sugar Waffles, noted that the company was back at the market for its third year and business was good.

The Severna Park Farmers Market is a place where you’re apt to bump into people you know. Saturday’s market was no exception. We first bumped into Elizabeth Melvin who leads the well-known Freedom Choir. She was excited to let us know that the choir is about to perform its Fifteenth Anniversary Spring Concert on Sunday, April 27 at 4 pm at Eastport United Methodist Church.

We next ran into Nancy Rando, who regularly shops at the farmers’ market. Rando also had lots of news to share. Among other things, she’ll be volunteering for the 23rd year at the Good Neighbors Group’s Earth Day Festival at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company on Sunday, April 27th from 11 am till 3 pm.

Longtime vendors like The Ville’s Dills and Pat’s Produce & Gourds have a feel for the seasonal flow of the market and generally bring less product to the early markets. Thus, they take up less space than usual. Pat Hochmuth, owner of Pat’s Produce, brought about half the number of tables he uses during peak growing season and gauged things about right. Three hours into the market, he’d sold out of most of the vegetable transplants and early-season greens that lined his tables earlier.

Zahradka Family Farm had its usual complement of tables but some empty spaces by 11 am. However, they did have some very healthy-looking lettuces, collards and kale left as well as a few remaining Easter flowers.

The Severna Park Farmer’s Market has long been a place where patrons can find useful information and tips from groups like the Anne Arundel County Master Gardeners and fun from homegrown bands like The Overtones who appear there frequently. Made up of musicians from around the greater Severna Park and Arnold area, The Overtones play a range of acoustic instruments including violins, guitars, mandolins and banjos along with saxophone and accordion. They perform old-fashioned folk music that is wonderful to hear. Listening to them kind of takes one back to a simpler time.

The run on products at both The Breadery and My Nana’s Kitchen on opening day bodes well for the market vendors throughout this season. My Nana’s Kitchen owner Anita Robertson also manages the market and had a friend helping her mind the counter while she saw to the needs of the vendors.

“The market was busy this morning,” Robertson said. “We couldn’t have asked for better weather. We were missing a few vendors who couldn’t make it for Easter weekend, but they’ll be here next week and we’ll have a full house.”

We did realize that a few regular vendors were missing. Nevertheless, there were so many vendors that we ran out of time before we could get to them all. We did manage to meet newbies Damian and Genine Ferragamo from Rosy Side Farm on the Eastern Shore who had tomato and pepper plants and herbs and will later carry summer flowers and vegetables.

We barely had time for a quick hello and goodbye for vendors Evie & Park and Astral Sugar. However, we took a few moments on our way out of the market to visit longtime Hip Mod Vintage vendor Amy Heath. And, wouldn’t you know it? In keeping with the Easter Weekend opening, she included a bejeweled bunny and a pair of silver bunnies in her product display. In addition to Heath’s own recycled rings, necklaces and bracelets, Amy was carrying some of her designer daughter Ellie Heath’s Three Blue Bunnies handsewn items including floral patterned carryalls and denim potholders and mug mats. (Denim fabric is increasingly hard to come by these days.)

Located on the southbound side of Ritchie Highway at Jones Station Road, the Severna Park Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 am till noon through October.

Quick Reminders for Saturday’s events

At least half a dozen events are taking place this Saturday in the Greater Severna Park and Arnold area, some of which we’ve announced in previous columns. Two daytime events open to the public are:

Park Hardware‘s second annual Spring Native Plant Sale this Saturday, April 26th, starting at 8 am.

Jing Ying Institute‘s “World Tai Chi Day Celebration” at the Severna Park Community Center this Saturday, April 26, from 10am to 11:30am. 

Good Neighbors Group’s 23rd annual Earth Day Festival this Sunday

The 23rd annual Good Neighbors Group Earth Day Festival is being held this Sunday, April 27 from 11 am to 3 pm at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company. This event is always interesting, informative and fun. Exhibitors include environmental organizations, animal welfare organizations, recycling and composting exhibitors, alternative energy specialists, and physical and mental wellness providers. GNG’s eco-marketplace will have lots of plants as well as handmade and up-cycled offerings. 

A ‘Good Neighbors Depot’ will be available to unload unwanted items with a mind toward sustainability – the perfect opportunity to recycle, upcycle and donate what you no longer need while helping others and the planet.

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Drivers passing by on Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard on Easter morning of 2014 must have been astonished to see masses of children gathered around a flower-covered cross on the lawn of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Eleven years have gone by but, hopefully, drivers passing by this Easter Sunday of 2025 will see a similar scene. The children who appear in the photos below are now in their teens or early twenties, but a younger generation will have an opportunity to place flowers on the very same Flower Cross and attend a Family Easter Service.

Woods’ Associate Pastor, the Rev. Nancy Lincoln-Reynolds, brought the reappearance of the Flower Cross to our attention. We met with her for details in the Terry Schoener Prayer Chapel where an alcove contains a cross of a different kind. (The room was created to honor the memory of the Rev. Dr. Terry Schoener who served as pastor of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church for 27 years before retiring in 2006.)

“We’re inviting the community to come to our Family Easter Service and bring flowers to place on the cross which will be prepared as before and placed in a similar location on Woods’ front lawn,” she said.

According to Rev. Lincoln-Reynolds, this year’s Easter worship service for families is being organized by Director of Children’s Ministry Kat Green. Her inspiration to resurrect the Flower Cross on Easter, the Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, is somehow very fitting at this particular moment in history.

“The Family Worship Service taking place this Easter Sunday, April 20th, will be a bit different from the one held in 2014 as it will be held in the church’s Fellowship Hall but will also be filled with the traditional elements of prayer, scripture, movement and music,” Lincoln-Reynolds added. “It will begin at 9:30 am and the procession to the Flower Cross on the lawn will occur following the service.”

The Flower Cross made its first appearance on the Woods Church lawn a little over a decade ago. Children who participated in that original event placed blossoms on the cross following a special Easter worship service for families at Holy Grounds Youth Center (now Boone Station Hall) next door. For the first time in decades, the former church was used for a religious serviced led by Woods’ youth pastor, the Rev. Nicholas Cheek.

Light streaming through the stained-glass windows of the 1920’s era chapel lent a warmth and intimacy to the space befitting a service planned with children in mind. The Easter observance featured traditional elements of prayer, scripture readings and meditations but was also lively with music and movement. Even the youngest children participated by singing and dancing to joyful hymns.

A lovely ballet was performed by Katie Lohff as Sarah Kent sang the hymn “Glorious Day”.

Poetry followed as well as a performance of “Jesus Messiah” by teens Megan Killpatrick, McKenna Lee, Rebecca Hyde and Lauren Loff.

“This is very reminiscent of what church would have been like back in the early days…home churches with entire families worshipping together,” said Rev. Cheek who was clearly pleased with the well-attended event.

Following the Easter celebration, the children selected blooms from buckets of carnations, tulips, daisies and lilies and began a procession toward the living flower cross. Looking ever so sweet in their Easter dresses, young Emma Wilson and sisters Ashley and Abigail Mears were the first children to arrive on the lawn in front of Woods Church and add Gerbera daisies to blooms placed by adults at an earlier service.

The cross was the idea of the late Elizabeth Wyble, a longtime congregation member, designer and garden expert. She’d wanted to create a living cross with fresh flowers that would remain in place through Easter season through Pentecost.

Wyble designed the 7-foot cross to be visible from Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard. On the Thursday before Easter, congregation volunteers installed the frame, covered it with floral foam wrapped with chicken wire and black plastic, added greenery and watered it.

Though the first flowers were placed by adults, it needed the youngster’s contributions to fully bloom.

Wyble’s lovely and meaningful creation was a great success. Families flocked to the Flower Cross.

In a matter of moments, the cross was filled with blooms and families began posing in front of the unique symbol of Easter as can be seen in the opening photo.

Lincoln-Reynolds noted that a listing of all this week’s Easter Services at Woods Church can be seen by visiting Facebook.

Back to the present moment, the Associate Pastor bubbled over with enthusiasm about the latest happenings at Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church. She was especially excited about having held the first of many Community Conversations conducted by Senior Pastor, the Rev. J.C. Austin. The objective of the event was to gather community residents, regardless of differences of opinion, political allegiance or religious affiliation to talk about some of the chaos being experienced in our changing world and how to create something good from it.

She was also pleased about the growth of the Woods Counseling & Care Center which she established in a building that formerly housed the YWCA. Jerry and Elizabeth Wyble undertook the renovation, interior decoration and landscaping of the building and were also the benefactors of a labyrinth on the grounds. Lincoln-Reynolds proudly noted that the Center now has six therapists on staff and is about to add a rabbi.

Severna Park Farmer’s Market opens this Saturday

The Severna Park Farmer’s Market returns to the Park and Ride on the corner of Ritchie Highway and Jones Station Road this Saturday, April 19th from 8 am till noon. The Easter weekend market will see the return of Ellie Heath’s Three Blue Bunnies for the 7th year and 19 additional vendors. Among them are longtime favorites Joyce’s Flowers & Herbs, Pat’s Produce and Gourds, Morris Hill Farm, The Ville’s Dills, and The Zahradka Family Farm.

World Tai Chi Day to be celebrated at Severna Park Community Center, April 26th

Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi will once again be celebrating the annual “World Tai Chi Day” at the Severna Park Community Center on Saturday, April 26, from 10am to 11:30am. There will be demos of Tai Chi & Qigong and mini workshops. Learn more about better balance, reduced stress, improved joint health, & other benefits.

The World Tai Chi celebration will be held beneath the trees on the lawn between the Severna Park Community Center and Boone Station Hall or, if it rains, in the community center’s Andy Borland Gymnasium.

Park Hardware Native Plant Sale also happens on Saturday, April 26th

 Park Hardware is holding is second annual Spring Native Plant Sale on Saturday, April 26th, starting at 8 am. The sale is the perfect opportunity to stock up on beautiful native perennial plants from Providence of Maryland, a leading nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Experts from the Anne Arundel County Bay-Wise Program will be on hand to share tips on creating a thriving, eco-friendly garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, they’ll help you become a better steward of nature in your own backyard.

Spring Girl’s Night Out at Homestead Gardens Severna Park on May 1st

Homestead Gardens Severna Park is holding its annual Spring Girl’s Night Out party on Thursday, May 1st from 5 to 8 pm. Bring your favorite gal pals for an evening of sipping, shopping, and sampling courtesy of the finest food and beverage purveyors in the community. Experience a delightful night of food, shopping, and fun…and, as a bonus, get 25% off your purchase.

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

SPAN, Inc.’s Board members and directors’ original intention was to celebrate the organization’s 30th Anniversary in 2020. However, the COVID pandemic put their plans on hold for much longer than expected – five years to be exact.

Thus, it was with great joy that current directors Maia Grabau and Michele Sabean announced that SPAN’s 35th Anniversary would be celebrated, with not one, but with two events during the first week of April.

The anniversary celebrations began at 4 pm on Tuesday, April 1 with a Milestone Recognition Service in the sanctuary at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church followed by a reception on the lawn of the SPAN headquarters building behind it. The service started with opening remarks by SPAN, Inc. president Mike Monahan.

He welcomed everyone, especially the many longtime supporters in the audience including SPAN volunteers, donors, and board members.

Monahan was followed by keynote speaker Michele Sabean, SPAN’s Director of Development. Along with her written words in the event’s program, Sabean’s remarks traced SPAN’s beginnings and acknowledged all those whose contributions have made the organization such an enduring force for good.

She noted that the Severna Park Assistance Network (SPAN) was founded in 1990 by six local churches and opened its doors in April of that year with a mission to provide emergency assistance to families in crisis with dignity and compassion. She then sited just a few of many reasons area residents come to SPAN seeking assistance.

“People are struggling with devastating situations like job loss, an illness or the death of a partner,” the director said.

She added that, over 35 years, the organization has grown well beyond Severna Park and truly lived up to its name – Serving People Across Neighborhoods (SPAN). During that time, SPAN has assisted an estimated 100,000 individuals, offering critical support for food, utility bills, eviction prevention and medical needs. In 2024 alone, they provided aid to 4,097 people including 1,470 families, 58 percent of whom have children. The demand for services continues to grow, with financial aid distributed last year reaching 2.5 times higher than previous years.

Sabean said none of this would be possible without the dedication of SPAN volunteers and their families, donors, and community businesses along with former recipients of aid who come back to the organization to volunteer or make a donation.

Sabean’s remarks were followed by those of Maia Grabau, SPAN’s Director of Operations. Grabau cited specific cases where she’d taken calls or received visits from clients who were in severe financial and emotional distress. Her words took on added significance when she introduced two recent clients who were courageous enough to reveal the traumatic events that brought them to SPAN asking for help.

Neither woman was identified by name, but both emphasized that they’d found themselves in truly dire circumstances when they contacted SPAN. They thanked the organization for literally offering them a lifeline.

The woman in orange, in particular, experienced continuous setbacks over the past ten years.  She lost a son, and a couple years later, her teenage daughter was murdered.  She suffers with PTSD as a result and was unable to work for several years.  Later, she and her husband divorced, and he completely avoided paying child support for her children leaving her to bear the financial burden.

In December, her car broke down, and she needed over $2,000to fix it.  She had no money to do the repair, so she had to take Uber to her job 30 min away.  This expense put her further behind financially.  She then fell behind on her phone service payments, and her service was cut off.  As a result, she couldn’t call Uber for a ride or contact her workplace to let them know why she could not come in.  It was a downward spiral, and she was released from her job last week.  

Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber CEO Liz League spoke next and also officiated over the presentation of citations and awards to SPAN. In addition to the aforementioned citation presented by chamber member Tommy Sommers on behalf of Governor Moore’s office, there were several others including one from League on behalf of the chamber and one presented by Aysia Rodriguez from Maryland State Delegate Brian Chisholm’s office.

Following closing remarks by Monahan, attendees were invited to cross the lawn from the church to the porch of SPAN headquarters for an official chamber ribbon-cutting presided over by League and a reception.

Meanwhile, last minute touches were being added to the refreshment tables by 35th Anniversary Committee Co-Chairs Nanci Hulting and Lesley Wallace.

A beautifully decorated cake highlighting SPAN’s 35th Anniversary took center stage on one table in the nick of time as attendees flooded the lawn.

An invitation was extended to one and all to join supporters at the SPAN’s 35th Birthday Fest held Saturday, April 5th at Severna Park United Methodist Church on Benfield Road. As can be seen from the opening photo featuring SPAN volunteer Joanne Petrik and directors Maia Grabau and Michele Sabean, it was a colorful, well-attended and fun event with member churches providing and presiding over carnival games, live music and interesting displays.

The number of SPAN’s member churches has grown from the original six to 13. The originals were Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, St. Martins in-the-Field Episcopal Church, Severna Park United Methodist Church and Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church. They were joined by Asbury United Methodist Church, Baldwin Memorial United Methodist Church, Bay Area Community Church, Brooklyn Community United Methodist Church, Our Lady of the Fields Roman Catholic Church, St. Andrew by the Bay Roman Catholic Church, Severna Park Baptist Church and Trinity Bible Church. Quite a few were on hand.

Forever popular, ice cream in a multitude of flavors was available from Asbury United Methodist Church. Sabean couldn’t resist temptation and thoroughly enjoyed her cup of blueberry ice cream.

Greek Street and Sol Dog food trucks and an improvised food court provided sustenance for the crowd and a chance to socialize.

We saw several members of Cub Scout Pack 918 roaming the event. The pack is based at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church and had a booth and a Raingutter Regata game that involved sailing little boats down the gutters.

SPAN booths and volunteers were everywhere. At one booth, a flag waved in the breeze with photographs of people taken at SPAN, Inc. events down through the years. If you looked closely, you could see the photos.

Two local bands entertained the crowd. The first was Blame It On Lee and the second, seen below, was Controlled Chaos performing their repertoire of Classic Rock tunes.

As one of the original member churches, Severna Park United Methodist Church not only hosted the Birthday Fest but also had an Easter oriented booth complete with bubble machine. The booth was manned by church members Stephanie Lohss, Celine Wachter and Blaine Claar.

There was so much more to see, from St. Martin’s in-the-Field Church’s Face Painter to Our Lady of the Fields Coloring Station which, surprisingly drew adults as well as children.

One game that drew especially well was the Trinity Bible Church Youth Group Prize Wheel with two long tables of prizes behind it for players to select from. Everyone loved Trinity Music Director Zach Joines’ Mad Hatter attire complete with bunny ears.

The Birthday Fest offered much more to see and do. However, we wanted to offer some our own photographs of past directors from day we happened upon the SPAN scene in 2014 to the present.

Maria DeNardo was the organization’s Executive Director in 2013 and Jennifer Pumphrey the Associate Director. DeNardo is seen below welcoming guests to SPAN’s Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon at the Firemark Building in Millersville. The pumpkin centerpieces were gorgeous.

The event was particularly fun since SPAN volunteers were gifted Volunteer T-Shirts like those seen in the photo below.

By 2017, Jennifer Pumphrey had been named SPAN’s Director of Operations and, with DeNardo retired, was teamed with Ellen Kinsella as Director of Development. (Kinsella was in the audience during the 35th Anniversary Milestone Recognition Service.)

By early to mid-2021, Pumphrey was planning to move away from Maryland and Kinsella had decided to retire. In mid-May, Maia Grabau was installed as the new Director of Operations and Michele Sabean became Director of Development. Though Kinsella stayed behind for a week to acquaint them with operations, the pair had to hit the ground running.

With demand for services continuing to rise, Sabean and Grabau remain extremely busy yet managed, with help from the 35th Anniversary Committee, to pull off two very fine Anniversary events. For information about how to make a donation, ask for assistance, or follow upcoming events, visit SPAN Serving People Across Neighborhoods (spanhelps.org).

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

The 2025 Green Expo at Homestead Gardens in Davidsonville kicked off at 10:30 am with a Piper leading a presentation of the colors by Scout Troop 454. A welcome from Davidsonville Area Civic Association (DACA) president Bruce Stein followed along with remarks from Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman and other political leaders.

Long afterward, attendees continued to stream up the sidewalks and into the garden center on their way to the Expo at the back of the property. Passing through the garden center’s interior and greenhouses full of gorgeous plants and flowers was a treat in itself.

The opportunity to check out offerings from two dozen exhibitors ranging from local businesses to agricultural, watershed and environmental organizations was a significant draw.

Families with children, however, were immediately drawn to the animals brought to the Expo by exhibitor Nanikala Carr’s Calvert County-based Not Your Farmer’s Daughter. A trio of fluffy Silkies, otherwise known as Chinese Silk chickens, drew many curious onlookers as they batted around a transparent balloon. However, it was gigantic bunnies Hoss and Mishka that were a particular hit with kids.

According to Carr, Hoss is a Continental Giant bunny. He is only 16 weeks old but already weighs 14 lbs. She said he should top out at 20 lbs. Darker hued Mishka is a Flemish Giant who, at a year-and-a-half old is full grown and quite friendly. In fact, children who wish to pet the bunnies are invited into their cages and Mishka really loves that.

Carr, best known as Nani, grew up in Alaska fishing and hunting. After moving to Maryland, she decided to do the next best thing and took to farming in a sustainable way. Having grown chickens for 15 years and now the mother of young kids, she established Not Your Farmers Daughter two years ago as a Petting Farm that offers its services for picture parties, special events, and educational visits to schools.

Starting the venture seemed a natural outgrowth of farming for Carr and was an easy transition. Adding horses and ponies, like those seen in the opening photo, was a natural. She quickly concluded that the business should offer riding lessons.

“What we have is more like a Pony Club for younger kids who are one to five or seven years old,” she said. “I’d been feeling that there is nothing much for children that age to do. So, offering this is a fun alternative. And, who knows? Our students might be future farmers or raise tiny horses.”

Carr next introduced us to goats Maribel and Ice who were decked out as a butterfly and a rustic farm goat complete with kerchief. Ice is the baby of Maribel. The pair is occasionally used for “goatscaping”. They are totally at ease wearing costumes – especially at Halloween – and both are fine with kids.

While the youngest attendees liked the animals, their parents were more interested in what the Green Expo tent, only half of which can be seen in the photo below, held. There were displays from two dozen exhibitors ranging from historic sites to local businesses and county government departments and agricultural agencies.

We’d encountered some exhibitors before like Homestead Gardens Landscaping, the Arundel Rivers Federation and the AA Watershed Stewards Academy, but were unfamiliar with others.

Melaleuca/EarthSense Solutions’ Barbara Gill was, of course well-known to many attendees as she has participated in the Green Expo multiple years. Gill is also an important voice in the Anne Arundel County’s business community as she is the founder of the Chesapeake Coffee Connections networking group.

New to us, and of particular interest, was an exhibit for the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center which Jim Oland and Nora Terres informed us is located on two adjoining campuses in Edgewater at 647 Contees Wharf Road.

The Woodlawn Campus includes the Woodlawn History Center exhibits in Woodlawn House, the oldest building in the Smithsonian’s collection that is still in its original location. Also located on the campus, along the Woodlawn History Trail, are Asher Cottage, the Sellman Tenant House, the Java Mansion Ruins, and a historic cemetery.

The adjoining Waterfront Campus is surrounded by the waters of Muddy Creek, Fox Creek and the Rhode River. It is home to the Reed Educaton Center and the Wet Laboratory, the Tobacco Barn and Experimental Gardens. There are several scenic trails, the Marsh Boardwalk and a Public Canoe/Kayak launch.

Equally interesting was the Historic London Town & Gardens exhibit manned by Director of Development Melanie Kincaid. She was handing out a schedule of upcoming events that includes a Garden Egg Hunt scheduled for Saturday, April 5 and the London Town In Bloom Gala which takes place on Friday, May 9.

Two organizations we’ve seen before as exhibitors were the Arundel Rivers Federation, with a spinning wheel game to attract attention to their projects throughout the South, Rhode and West River watersheds, and the Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary which attracted attention with their collection of skins, antlers, turtle shells and other objects found within the sanctuary.

We discovered, for the first time, a fine exhibit from the Anne Arundel County Farm Bureau whose representatives explained their many programs aimed at helping farmers and saving our farms. Hoping to attract new members, they handed out copies of The Old Line Farmer magazine (which were very interesting) along with an informative pamphlet.

There was so much more to see, from author Cindy Freland and her multitude of children’s books to area businesses like Red Carpet Remodeling with Maria Fairchild and Sherri Grove.

And we couldn’t possibly say goodbye without visiting Patuxent Riverkeeper Fred Tutman and Bartlet Tree Experts’ Arborist Riley Smith.

For information on upcoming spring events at Homestead Gardens in Davidsonville or Severna Park, visit Homestead Gardens – Garden Supplies, Nursery, and Landscaping.

SPAN’s 35th Anniversary Celebration continues this Saturday at Severna Park United Methodist Church

This Saturday, April 5 from 12 noon to 4 pm, SPAN’s 35th Birthday Fest will be held at Severna Park United Methodist Church on Benfield Road in the parking lot. The public is invited to enjoy a free community celebration with live music, carnival games hosted by SPAN’s member churches and community groups, and food trucks with food available for purchase. (In case of rain, the celebration will move indoors to the Fellowship Hall.)

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Signs of Spring are evident throughout the county as March draws to a close. From its picturesque wagon of tulips and daffodils and gardens filled with spring flowers and vegetables to the baby peeps inside, Anne Arundel Farm, Lawn & Garden has all the hallmarks of the season.

Pansies are in full bloom at the Pasadena-based center just in time to welcome shoppers to this Saturday’s Spring Kickoff from 7:30 am to 6 pm. Farm and garden products and plants will be on sale for 10% off all day (or 15% for early birds the first hour-and-a-half).

Venturing further into the garden area, there are shelves and shelves of transplants that allow enable cool weather gardeners to get a head start including multiple varieties of lettuces, kale, spinach and other greens.

For those who love tulips like me, but didn’t have time to plant bulbs in the fall, the garden center is selling large pots of ready-to-bloom tulips and daffodils.

In one part of the garden, we discovered a section whimsically labeled Strawberry fields forever! featuring a healthy collection of plants meant to go into the ground now to produce juicy red berries in May.

For homeowners or gardeners interested in growing their own peaches, nectarines or cherries, a miniature orchard of fruit trees occupies another part of the garden.

Next comes a trip indoors where more fun begins. Walking past the seed potatoes and onion sets (all of which I’ve grown) and rows of garden seed packets, I began to hear chirps.

Following the sounds, I happened upon the limited number of baby chicks that remain for sale. (AA Farm, Lawn & Garden sold out quickly this year.)

While admiring them, along with other shoppers, a clerk appeared to select five yellow peeps and three darker hued peeps for an excited pair of children who adored them. The kids (and their mother) also seemed to take the job of raising them seriously.

Before leaving, we made sure we knew all the details for the Saturday, March 29 Spring Kickoff Sale. In addition to $1,000 worth of raffles and giveaways, free hot dogs and soda will be served between 10 am and 3 pm. To find more information on Anne Arundel Farm, Lawn & Garden, visit them at Facebook or on their website at A.A. Co. Farm Lawn & Garden | Pasadena, Maryland (aalawnandgarden.com).

Shortly, thereafter, our spring adventure took us to the Bohemian Black boutique at 45 W. Earleigh Heights Road in Severna Park where we found that owner Rose Walker’s prêt-à-porter collection of Spring fashions was not the only thing new. An upper floor was recently added to the storefront.

Opened less than a year ago, the brick -and-mortar version of Walker’s Bohemian Black by Walking Roses began life in an unexpected way. It was formerly a garage attached to the first floor of the historic Listman Building opposite the Ranger Station on the B&A Trail that was restored and remodeled by the property’s owners. The addition of the upper floor completes its transformation providing additional display room, a pair of changing rooms, a children’s section and a small men’s section.

Rose Walker wasn’t on hand to show us around as she was in a meeting. However, employee Lena Slade was happy to lead us up the stairs to the new spaces which are light and bright with just enough space.

The addition of a waiting area and changing rooms has been a great help.

Back downstairs, which remains much the same, Lena showed us a few of her favorite spring fashions. She loves the short but surprisingly flattering purple dress she is holding.

“I’m not usually a fan of dresses with short skirts but this one is so flattering,” she said. “I love the shirred waist which is fitted and the dress is flowing and comfortable to wear.

The floor-length dress, which is one of Rose Walker’s favorites, is quite interesting and will be perfect to wear from spring through summer. According to Lena, the material is much like a silk scarf and the dress is open on the sides so you can simply slip your arms through.

Another fashion that caught my eye, as well as Lena’s, is a floor-length culotte or “romper” in summertime green. She noted that you can dress the garment up.

In fact, the dress was a hit with one woman who came in looking for a dress for a casual wedding she was planning to attend.

One reason we stopped by Bohemian Black is that we heard Rose Walker is planning an elegant “Let’s Be Friends” Brunch on Sunday, May 25th at 11:00 am. We’ll have more details later. Meantime, you can follow the activities of the boutique at Facebook or by visiting the website Bohemian Black by Walking Roses (bohemianblackbywr.com).

A new parking lot for Fishpaw’s Marketplace

Spring is a time for rebirth and renewal but the last thing we expected to see as we drove down B&A Boulevard is Fishpaw’s Marketplace owner Kim Lawson standing on a corner sidewalk directing traffic Thursday afternoon as her parking lot was being repaved. She did a marvelous job and told her customers their cars would be fine while they went inside.

I proceeded to do just that and went indoors to look for two of my favorite things – a bottle of wine and one of the fine cheeses for which Fishpaws Marketplace is noted. I found the same familiar faces behind the counters and the store is looking great.

You can check out Fishpaws Marketplace by visiting the website at Fishpaws Marketplace Severna Park MD, Severna Park, MD. at Instagram or at Facebook.

Green Expo at Homestead Gardens Davidsonville this Saturday

Homestead Gardens at Davidsonville is hosting the annual Green Expo this Saturday, March 29th, from 10:30 am till 2 pm. Area businesses and community and environmental organizations will be on hand to inform attendees about their services. And, of course, Homestead Gardens will be at its best with gorgeous spring plants.

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Historic Baldwin Hall was looking festive even before the doors opened for Severn Cross Roads Foundation’s St. Patrick’s Day-themed Wine, Cheese & Chocolate fundraiser last Saturday. The candles were lit in each window and the white lights on the shamrock tree shone through as well. Shamrock-bearing elves on each door welcomed guests to step inside.

Severn Cross Roads Foundation, Inc. was formed in the 1970’s as a non-profit 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt organization for the purpose of restoring and preserving Baldwin Hall for use as a community center. Its trustees are tasked with seeking grants and raising funds to pay for maintenance, restoration work and needed improvements. This year’s Wine, Cheese & Chocolate affair, one of the foundation’s best fundraisers, was particularly important since money is needed for a new roof.

The organization’s president Pamela Aulton and treasurer Gail Campbell had been busy inside making sure the hall was decorated to the hilt. In the entrance corridor, there were decorations in multiple shades of green. A small tree at one end sparkled with white lights, shamrocks, miniature elves and upside-down horseshoes for good luck.

On one side of the hall, a festive “grazing buffet” was being set up on white linen-draped tables by local caterer The Jive Chive. The main table held charcuterie of meats, cheeses, fruits and veggies while a second table held an abundance of chocolates that ranged from high-end miniature chocolate bars to chocolate truffles and chocolate brownies.

On the opposite side, Silent Auction donations from local businesses had been arranged and ran the length of the wall

On a stage at the far end of Baldwin Hall, entertainer Richard Walton was getting set up behind an impressive line of spirits meant to be raffled off later in the evening.

Beneath the balcony at the back of the room, a selection of wines donated by Gina of General’s Wine & Spirits was being served. The Crownsville-based shop’s donation also included the spirits displayed on the stage that were part of a raffle with winners declared at the end of the evening.

No sooner had the doors opened at 7 pm, than guests streamed through the doors looking for friendly faces. As the annual fundraiser is a well-known social occasion for Baldwin Hall supporters and people from the community, the event drew many people who knew each other. Among them were Spencer and Jana Leech who were drawn to the fundraiser because they live nearby.

We next spotted Sally Burton and husband Steve. Sally is a Severn Cross Roads Foundation Trustee but she is best-known as the former director of Chesapeake Harmony Chorus which uses Historic Baldwin Hall as a rehearsal space and concert venue. She still sings with the chorus and is part of the award-winning Second Star Quartet. She told us about an upcoming performance at Baldwin Hall.

“As preparation for our regional Sweet Adeline’s competition, Chesapeake Harmony Chorus members and quartets will be performing for their first Friends and Family Night under new director Mary Beth Whisman on March 26th at 7:30 pm,” Sally said.

She then introduced us to four of Severn Cross Roads Foundation’s trustees who were overseeing the fundraiser and persuaded them to pose for a photograph with her. They included the organization’s new president Pamela Aulton, secretary Gail Campbell, Carolyn Woody and Marge McGugan.

One had only to look about to find more acquaintances. Long-time Severn Cross Roads Foundation member Janice Crowe was having a fine time talking to her pal Linda and greeting everyone who walked by. With music and conversation with friends to enjoy, the evening was moving along nicely.

We next discovered a convivial Leprechaun by the name of Mark Campbell who was wearing a tall green top hat, bow tie and vest. He was seen here, there, and everywhere, frequently appearing at the grazing buffet. We ran into him while he was carrying on a lively conversation with Susan Ingram and Jim Woody.

We moseyed on and eventually caught up with Baldwin Hall building manager Annie Medford who was chatting with friends Joanie and Rich Clough about Baldwin Hall’s need for a new roof.

“We have a cedar shake roof like the one original to the building that was last replaced about 20 years ago,” Medford told us. “It has reached the end of its life with some damage to the cedar shakes. They’ve started to curl and break off and the roof has started to leak. We’ve made repairs to prevent any damage, but we have to go ahead with a roof replacement. It’s a big project that is rarely done anymore so it will be a challenge.”

As the evening wore on, the buffet line tended to swell and then ease off a bit as people filled their plates and then returned for seconds or thirds.

The food was delicious and the sweets divine. It’s no wonder the buffet remained the most popular place to gather.

However, there were Silent Auction items still to bid on. People could be seen up and down the long row of tables writing out their bids. The auction donations included baskets of goodies from businesses like Be My Guest Caterers, baskets from a local nursery containing plants, and myriad gift certificates to area restaurants among other things.

Unable to stay to the end of the event when auction and raffle winners would be announced, I couldn’t resist one last look.

We hope to have an update on the progress of the roof replacement project soon. Meantime, you can keep up with Historic Baldwin Hall’s future activities by visiting Facebook or Home | baldwinhall.

Cheers to 35 Years for SPAN, Inc. in Severna Park the first week of April

It’s hard to believe but SPAN, Inc. is celebrating its 35th Anniversary with two events at the beginning of April. On Tuesday, April 1 at 4 pm, SPAN’s Anniversary Milestone Recognition Service and Open House will be celebrated at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church at 400 Benfield Road with speeches, a ribbon cutting and light refreshments.

On Saturday, April 5 from 12 noon to 4 pm, SPAN’s 35th Birthday Fest will be held at Severna Park United Methodist Church on Benfield Road in the parking lot. The public is invited to enjoy a free community celebration with live music, carnival games hosted by SPAN’s member churches and community groups, and food trucks with food available for purchase. (In case of rain, the celebration will move indoors to the Fellowship Hall.)

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 while reducing 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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Known today as the owner of The Reynolds Tavern, along with husband Dave, Diane Rey has reenacted the role of Annapolis’ favorite founding mother, Anne Catharine Green since 2011. Acclaimed for her portrayal of Green, she’s devoting considerable time to helping Historic Annapolis commemorate the dynamic 18th century woman with tours on March 29th.

Following the death of her husband, printer Jonas Green in 1767, Anne Catharine was named Printer to the Province of Maryland and became the publisher of The Maryland Gazette, the only newspaper in colonial Maryland.

Two-hundred and fifty years have come and gone since Green passed away, an anniversary Rey and her colleagues are keen to highlight.

“We couldn’t let this milestone event go by without a proper sendoff for Mrs. Green,” Rey said. “So, the idea for a celebration began with some of the Historic Annapolis staff and reenactors wondering ‘How could we mark this occasion?’ Their combined ideas grew into the Life and Legacy of Anne Catharine Hoof Green Tour.”

Sharing tea and scones in the south dining room of the Reynolds Tavern, Rey showed us a copy of a flyer for the event, adding that there will actually be two tour outings – one at 11 am and one at 2 pm on Saturday, March 29th – a week after Anne’s death on March 23, 1775.

The tour starts on Statehouse Hill where reenactor Marcos Salaverria from will talk about Anne’s work printing the laws coming out of the General Assembly and her public role as Printer to the Province. It was a position of particular importance, designating Green as printer of the province’s paper currency. Salaverria will point out the Treasury Building where the money she printed was stored. Built in 1730, it is Maryland’s oldest public building. (It’s currently shrouded for renovations.)

The tour then moves on for a second stop – Anne Catharine Green’s home on Charles Street which she moved into in 1738 after her marriage to Jonas. It is now a private residence. The owners have generously opened the home for the tour so it can highlight her life. But because it marks her death as well, reenactors including Ben Bartgis, Phil Hosea and Vicki Embrey will be sharing 18th Century mourning rituals and funerary customs which took place in the home. Reenactor Pat Turlington, who portrays midwife Charlotte Small, will talk about those customs. (In the 18th Century, midwives not only brought life into the world but also cared for the bodies of those who passed away.)

Tour visitors will get a sense of how the family would have responded to the death and what the house would have looked like. The mirrors will be draped with black cloth. In the parlor the visitors will see reenactors wearing mourning gowns and other attire appropriate for an 18th century wake. The tour will next exit into the dining room where guests will see the kinds of food and drink the family was expected to provide for mourners.

It was so expensive to provide the alcohol and fancy foods customary for such an occasion Rey noted, that 18th Century wake attendees were often given tickets in order to limit the number of people attending.

In the dining room, visitors will also see examples of little remembrances for guests called “memento moir” – a mourning fan for example, a pair of gloves or mourning jewelry – an example of which Rey showed us from her own collection.

Though not appearing in costume because Mrs. Green is “recently deceased”, Diane Rey will be on hand as herself to explain what life was like for Anne Catharine during the 22-year-long period between her marriage to Jonas and taking over the business after he died. She gave birth to and raised 14 children, maintained her home and printing office therein and helped her husband run the enterprise. Rey will show off some original pieces Anne printed.

The third spot on the tour is St. Anne’s Church on Church Circle where Anne and all of the Greens were interred. Reenactors will explain some of the burial customs of the times and, likely, a discussion will follow as to whether Anne’s body still lies there. The churchyard was much larger in the 18th Century but, as time moved on, some of the graves became buried beneath the Annapolis streets while others were moved to a cemetery on College Creek.

The final part of the tour will take place in Reynold’s Tavern’s 1747 Pub where participants will raise a glass of Printer’s Punch toasting Anne Catharine Green’s influential and accomplished life.

For Rey, the commemoration and tour mark the end of her 13-year stint reenacting Green’s powerful contribution to Maryland history. In fact, she is currently searching for a slightly younger reenactor to replace her as Anne Catharine Green 3.0. Diane started portraying Mrs. Green when she was 49, the same age Green was when she sat for a portrait by Charles Wilson Peale. She feels it would be nice to find someone that could cover a slightly earlier time in Green’s life.

Rey has a passion for history. She not only owns historic Reynolds Tavern but owns a 100-year-old home in Rehoboth and a 150-year-old townhouse in Annapolis as well, all of which she has spent many hours researching.

Reenacting historic figures since moving to Annapolis while in her early twenties, she has appeared routinely as Mrs. Green in town and at 164 events outside the city. Rey was so devoted to learning everything she could about Green, that she has traveled twice a year to Williamsburg to work with the master printers.

She even created a small replica printers’ tray with plastic letters representing type when explaining the printing process to children. Each square is marked with a letter and the kids must place the proper plastic letters in the proper tray.

She carries a handbasket holding props she’s collected and uses when doing a reenactment, some of which are authentic pieces. They include some wooden toys, some type, a spoon made from a cow’s horn, one of the animal skins used to pay for printing and some tobacco which was also used as payment.

The basket also holds the mob cap, fan, portable pockets that tie around the waist and the ink-stained printers’ apron Rey is wearing in the opening photo as well as the photo from Williamsburg.

Rey’s last appearance as Anne Catherine Green will be prior to the commemorative anniversary tours and will take place on Maryland Day (March 22nd) from 11 am to 3 pm at Hogshead at 43 Pinkney Street in Annapolis. This will probably not be the last time she will appear in 18th Century costume.

“After 13 years, I felt it was time to hang up Mrs. Green’s straw hat up in the ‘reenacting year of 1775’,” she said. “But there are countless possibilities for other historic characters.”

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 while reducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center.)

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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Few of our local churches are known to present ambitious musical or theatrical productions with large casts. But that is precisely what Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church has been doing for the past eight years. Thanks to David Merrill, Woods’ multi-talented and innovative Director of Music and the Arts, the church has produced large-scale productions ranging from “Jesus Christ Superstar” to last year’s “The Secret Garden”.

Attending an early rehearsal om the church sanctuary for this year’s musical, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”, we realized what a challenge staging this complex production will be. As the production’s director, Merrill was taking the cast through a tavern scene featuring Chinmayee Balachandra as the beautiful Esmeralda who was kidnapped when she was an infant and raised as a Romani (gypsy) woman. During the scene, Balachandra skillfully portrayed Esmeralda pursuing her livelihood as a street dancer from atop a picnic table.

Following the scene, Merrill provided us an overview of the show. He said it is based on Victor Hugo’s novel “Notre-Dame de Paris” published in 1831. Set in 15th Century Paris, the story revolves around the deformed bellringer Quasimodo and his guardian, the Archdeacon Claude Frollo who falls in love with Esmerelda but is rejected by her. Turmoil, destruction and multiple deaths ensue before there is a glimmer of hope.

“The title of Hugo’s book was focused on Notre Dame Cathedral where the story unfolds,” Merrill said. “However, our Woods Church production is based, in part but not entirely, on the 1996 adaptation of Hugo’s novel in the Disney animated film ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’. The version we chose to produce differs from the film and is closer to the actual novel and much darker. It’s a show that we don’t recommend for children.”

He added that one theme of the production is an exploration of what it means to be a misfit in society – an “other”. It’s a theme that is reflected in the song “God Help the Outcasts”.

Merrill, called our attention to the actor who plays Quasimodo, Lucas White. We caught up with White just after he’d tried on the green cloak that costume department head Susan Bohlman designed for him and is holding in the photo at right.

“Luckily, the cloak Susan made for me has the hunchback’s hump built into the back. The hump, in combination with changing my posture, enables my transformation to a deformed bellringer.”

Asked what it’s like to play Quasimodo, White thought for a moment.

“It’s really special, very different from any other role I’ve ever played,” he said. “Quasimodo has been confined to the cathedral bell tower for years by his guardian Archdeacon Frollo. When he finally leaves the cathedral, he is experiencing everything that happens to him, good or bad, for the first time. His emotions are so genuine.”

While doing the fitting with White, Bohlman was joined by volunteer Jacquei Shade who’d returned from scouting for costumes and accessories. Together, they carried several garments to a balcony level costume storage area above the church sanctuary.

Bohlman showed off racks of colorful costumes and chests of accessories she’d thus far assembled for the show.

She pointed out that it is challenging to find or design costumes resembling clothing worn in the 1490’s timeframe in which the musical is set. Fortunately, Colonial Players loaned Woods Church a number of pieces. Bohlman took particular joy in showing off one of the dresses Balachandra will wear as Esmeralda.

Both Bohlman and Shade emphasized that it takes a lot of manpower to stage such a large production. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” has a 62-member cast. In addition, a full orchestra and a 40-member choir will provide the musical background from the balcony above the sanctuary. Woven throughout the show, the choir will be performing chants and masses in Latin.

According to Merrill, the show will be a fully realized theater experience for the volunteers who will be working on the sets, the sound, the graphics and slides projected during the production, the costumes and the hair and makeup for the actors.

Moving to the balcony proper – the perfect place to watch the rest of the rehearsal – we observed that it was being conducted by the musical’s choreographer Elysia Merrill (David’s wife) and was focused solely on dance sequences. The staging of dance and movement throughout the show is vital to the multi-faceted production’s success and Elysia was looking to perfect every movement.

Back down on the main floor, we observed the choreographer working hard to be sure the performers were properly positioned to segue into the fast-paced tempo of a fiery gypsy dance.

Good news from Magothy River Association and Berrywood Environmental Committee member Karen Royer.

She tells us that Anne Arundel County Council member Amanda Fiedler submitted an amendment to Bill 2-25 that removed the “Critical Corridor” designation from the Ritchie Highway corridor in the heart of Severna Park, and the amendment passed.  

“That’s great news for everyone who has to travel on this already extremely overcrowded part of Ritchie Highway.,” Royer said.

She added that the amended version of Bill 2-25 will be back for a vote on March 3rd.

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 while reducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center.)

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.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

Hearts could be seen here, there and everywhere during BD Provisions‘ February 13th Gallentine’s Day Party, creating the perfect atmosphere for an event that was a combination social gathering and shopping experience. Initially a vision of BD Provisions’ co-owner/host Debra Saltz and Hip Mod Vintage proprietor Amy Heath, the party was a great opportunity for attendees to find unique Valentine’s Day gifts.

Located just inside the store’s entrance, an eye-catching display of jewelry from Hip Mod Vintage drew customers like bees to honey. Woven throughout the collection were heart-shaped rings and necklaces featuring hearts like the one seen in the opening photo.

Heath, is well-known as a longtime vendor at the Severna Park Farmer’s Market selling her recycled and perfectly restored vintage jewelry and other upcycled treasures. She also sells items from her equally well-known daughter Ellie Heath’s Three Blue Bunnies‘ collection of stylish jean jackets and other accessories she created from recycled materials.

“The farmer’s market actually opens a week earlier this year on April 19th and Hip Mod Vintage will be there,” Amy told us. But Ellie won’t be on hand as she’s living in Newport, Rhode Island where she’ll graduate this year from Salve Regina University. Luckily, she’s sending me new items she is creating for Three Blue Bunnies including trendy tote bags made from donated fabrics.”

Other vendors marketed heart-themed products at the Gallentine’s Day event. At the end of the first aisle, we spotted vendor Caren Bach (who can be seen on the far left in the opening photo). We worked our way to the Cookies by Caren booth and sampled her adorable heart-shaped cookies as well as cookies she made entirely from BD Provisions’ products. They were yummy.

Turning a corner, we happened upon Rebecca Gillin’s delightful Me Time LLC Bath Bomb, Soaks and Scrubs booth.

Gillin’s love of bath bombs was the inspiration for creating a whole range of products – products so successful she has been in business for three years.

“My children and I really loved bath bombs and I bought a lot of them. So I started making them myself and then expanded to other products,” Gillin said. “The children even helped me and the colorful beaded bracelets I’m displaying were made by them.”

For those who love to soak like Gillin, the Me Time products are ideal.

“I have a husband and two sons, so I was the only woman in the house. I could frequently be heard saying ‘I need a little me time’ which was the inspiration for the name of my business,” Gillin said.

Gallentine’s Day Party guests were having a wonderful time. They sipped complimentary Sparkling Cider, entered the raffle with its heart-shaped tickets, roamed the aisles and carried their purchases in heart-embossed gift bags.

Curiously, we noticed a few men attending the Gallentine’s Day Party, likely husbands or boyfriends eager to know what it was all about.

In addition to its normal wide array of chocolates and other candies, BP Provisions had Valentine’s Day specialties including those hard-to-find candy hearts of various kinds. They also had Valentine Candy Gift Boxes put together by the staff.

There were a few children attending the event including young Poppy who was being helped to a piece of candy she selected by BD Provisions’ owner Debra Saltz.

Poppy came to the Gallentine’s Day Party with her mother Taryn Gilbertson and aunt Jantra Silbert, two of three sisters (along with Dara Robinette) who own the nearby Stellaluna Raine Boutique. The sisters were drawn to the event because they know the vendors and have also visited BD Provisions on occasion.

BD Provisions is becoming known for hosting community-oriented special events that are fun – often featuring vendors. They frequently post those events at Facebook or Instagram.

St. Patrick’s Day Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Fundraiser at Baldwin Hall March 15th

The Severn Cross Roads Foundation recently announced that Historic Baldwin Hall in Millersville will once again be decorated with shamrocks on Saturday, March 15th when the organization’s St. Patrick’s Day Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Fundraiser takes place from 7 to 10 pm. A much-anticipated social gathering, the annual event also raises funds needed for the preservation and maintenance of the beautiful Georgian Colonial-style structure built in 1861 as the Cross Roads Methodist Episcopal Church. Today the hall is a center of numerous community happenings.

Tickets are $50 and include wine, craft beers, and soft drinks along with an array of fruits, vegetables and cheeses to tempt anyone’s tastebuds. Guests will enjoy live music by vocalist Richard Walton, a Silent Auction, a Basket of Cheer Raffle and 50-50 Raffle, Door Prizes and the company of friends, neighbors and supporters who appreciate Baldwin Hall’s fascinating history and architecture.

Tickets may be order tickets by calling 410-409-0187 or by sending an email to: gcampbell8185@gmail.com or they may be ordered online at https:PayPal.me/BaldwinHallMD.

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 while reducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center.)

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.

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

There’s never a time when Romenta Plants owner Alex Waldorf is not busy. A wedding and event florist, she’s also an avid gardener who grows some of the blooms used in her floral arrangements in her own Severna Park yard. She sources additional flowers, whenever possible, from Anne Arundel County farmers.

For several months of the year – basically wedding season from March through June and from September through November – Waldorf is extremely busy. However, the winter months are challenging for her, from both the gardening and wedding perspectives. She’s luckily able to offer her services as a freelance floral designer for other companies’ projects and markets floral arrangements through her website.

She’s currently offering Valentines bouquets in three sizes – medium-sized mason jar bouquets, larger luxury bouquets or smaller handheld bouquets tied with ribbon – that can be pre-ordered by visiting Flower Delivery, Local Flowers, Annapolis Flowers, Maryland Flowers, Anne Arundel Flowers, — Romenta Plants.

Romenta Plants is also teaming with The Coffee Trailer at 44 W. Earleigh Heights Road near the Yoga Barn to provide a Valentine’s Day Coffee and Flower Combo for $18.00. The combo can be preordered for pickup on February 14th by visiting Home | The Coffee Trailer (bestcoffeetrailer.com).

In addition, Waldorf works every week doing bud vases for Cafe Mezzanotte in Severna Park. Even as her garden sleeps through the chilly weather, however, she’s simultaneously preparing her land and growing seedlings for the coming season.

“I consider myself a ‘garden florist’, she says. “For a lot of my designs I work with seasonal blooms that are locally sourced and give off a garden vibe. Depending on the season, I source 20% or more flowers from my garden and most of the rest from area farmers.”

We came across Alex Waldorf while covering Good Neighbors Group’s Earth Day Celebration last April. She’d already sold quite a few of her fresh-as-the-breath of spring mason jar bouquets and herbs at her Romenta Plants booth. She enjoyed trading gardening tips with her customers and found that being a vendor was also good exposure for the wedding and event side of her business.

Waldorf loves being a floral designer for weddings and large events though it’s hard work. For instance, she preps flowers on Thursday for a wedding on Saturday.

“You also have to carry dozens and dozens of flowers, buckets of water, ladders, tons of equipment and all the mechanics and bases to the wedding location,” she said. “There’s always so much to do that, these days, I hire a team of freelancers to help me as needed.”

Fortunately, Waldorf comes from a producer background having worked in television and film production for ten years traveling all over the world. She’s managed crews and equipment for programs ranging from National Geographic and the Discovery Channel to the Food Network so she was used to lugging around gear on random stages in random locations. (In fact, she’s currently working on the production side of the 2025 Annapolis Film Festival which takes place March 27-30 – a nice way to supplement her floral design business during a down time for weddings.)

Wedding season will soon be upon us, however. We asked the designer what some of her favorite weddings have been.

“I love brides who give me free rein to use different colors and different textures,” she said. “Delicate pink and white blooms with some contrasting blues work wonderfully for spring weddings. Autumn weddings generally call for more vivid hues so you can incorporate late season sunflowers, zinnias, dahlias, mums and marigolds which are abundant.”

Brightly colored casual bouquets graced not only the head table at the lovely wedding above but every table.

Another favorite wedding design meant covering the ceiling of a 60 x 40 ft. tent at Herrington on the Bay with trailing plants and flowers. A third was a wedding with a Gothic vibe. The bride had a specific vision that allowed the florist to go out of her comfort zone.

“The wedding was so interesting,” Waldorf said. “The bride wore a black wedding dress that was beautiful. I created table designs featuring tall black candles surrounded by lush greenery and flowers in near black and deep purple shades with touches of dark crimsons and blues. It was outstanding.”

The upcoming spring wedding season coincides perfectly with the spring growing season and gardener Alex Waldorf has already given herself a head start. She’s employing a method known as cold stratification which involves scattering seeds on the ground while the weather is still freezing. Within a couple months, the seeds will sprout and pop through the ground healthy and hardy. She said winter sowing with seeds for sweet peas, calendulas, strawflowers, milkweed and poppies and other varieties of flowers has been failproof so far.

Waldorf’s passion for gardening runs deep and is integral to Romenta Plants’ success, truly a foundation for the business. The florist reflected that the most fun and most challenging aspect of her work is finding the growers she sources flowers from. After starting her business, she found a website that lists all the farmers and growers. The first thing she did was use that website to call to call growers nonstop to see if they would sell to her.

“After finding a farmer online, I’d check out the location and then ask if he or she would let me cut their blooms, she said. “Sometimes I’d work out a deal that, if I could come cut, they’d sell them to me cheap. Or I’d trade a bit of labor cutting and processing the flowers to get them ready for my use but also for the farmer’s other customers.”

Waldorf was immensely pleased to discover local growers in Annapolis and Davidsonville. If necessary, she could always go to wholesalers but it’s not really her style so she works local as much as she can.

Since moving to Severna Park, with its sandy soils, three years ago, her gardening challenges have been significant. In newly establishing her land, she’s learned it’s essential to add lots of amendments to the soil every year to have even a chance of growing a garden like those she’s had in the past when she lived in Washington, D.C. For now, she’s kind of a chaos gardener placing plants in the ground wherever there is space in hopes they’ll grow and taking lots of notes. But, in a few years’ time, she believes she’ll have a well-organized flower field with rows of blossoming plants of numerous colors and varieties. You can follow Alex Waldorf’s work on her website romentaplants.com) or @RomentaPlants on Facebook or Instagram.

Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company Bull & Oyster Roast February 15th

Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company’s annual Bull & Oyster Roast will take place Saturday, February 15 at the firehouse at 161 Ritchie Highway from 5 pm till 10 pm with food, music and fun. As always, the menu will be terrific with pit beef, ham and turkey and raw oysters, oyster stew, and oyster fritters plus all the trimmings and dessert. There will be 50/50 Boards, Big 6, Showdown Poker, Pull Tabs and Lottery Board to grab your attention. The yearly event is always fun. For tickets which are $50 in advance or $60 at the door see Earleigh Heights VFC (ehvfc.org).

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 while reducing stress. Jing Ying is again bringing Tai Chi to the Severna Park Community Center.)

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.