Category: Uncategorized

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

From the moment the Partners In Care Upscale Resale Boutique opened in 2007 at the corner of Ritchie Highway and East West Boulevard, it has attracted shoppers from across Anne Arundel County. They’ve known they’ll find carefully selected merchandise there at affordable prices.

A fundraising arm of the Partners In Care organization run by volunteers, the boutique sells limited amounts of furniture and accessories but is primarily known for its quality clothing, jewelry, fine China and housewares. A group of volunteers referred to as “The Stagers” arrive every Monday morning to create beautiful displays combining clothing, China, glassware and art.

Though gently used, shoppers can immediately see that the merchandise is of high quality and well cared for. Boutique manager Tracey Dill oversees the operation while Boutique shift manager Matija Hoppe works with the volunteers. Hoppe took a few minutes to show us around and explain the color rotation system used to assure that merchandise moves out every few weeks keeping what’s available fresh.

“This week, items bearing purple tags are marked for a 25% discount while those marked with green tags like those on the For Sale rack are on clearance at 75% off,” she said. “The items that don’t sell we pass on to other organizations like Orphan Grain Train. nothing is wasted.”

Hoppe further explained that PIC’s “phenomenal” volunteers working at the back of the boutique take very good care of the items they are donated. They do a great job getting the merchandise priced, prepared and on the floor the same day it’s donated.

Longtime volunteers Barb Amisatei and Joyce Kronneberger were working behind the scenes doing pricing and preparation.

“I’m pricing items, mostly housewares, to go out on the floor,” Kroneberger said. “Barb prices and prepares the clothes you see on the racks behind us that will move out there too. Stagers come in each Monday morning to work on displays with the items we’ve sent out.”

Back out on the floor, we roamed the aisles and discovered that quite a few shoppers were checking out the racks of clothing. Fall and winter season fashions were on display with a number of sweaters and jackets making an appearance.

Well-displayed cookware, including some priced by Kroneberger, was a big draw too.

While roaming the floor we observed that the checkout counter was constantly busy. At one point, volunteer Mercedes Cheatham was working the register. We later ran into her out on the floor admiring the quality of a bright red jacket from Jones of New York while noting that it’s hard to find such upscale merchandise these days.

Cheatham, who has worked as a volunteer for the PIC Upscale Resale Boutique for a year now, loves it.

“It’s fun. The store is beautiful and people enjoy coming here,” Cheatham says. “It’s like a gift shop that has wonderful things people have donated – sometimes items from the past that bring back fond memories for those who buy them.”

She added that she likes meeting all kinds of customers – decorators looking for artwork or accessories, realtors looking for decorative objects for use in staging a property for sale. She also sees more and more young people coming in from nearby condos or apartments who are just starting out and are looking for cookware or sets of China, cutlery or glassware that are less expensive than similar items in a department store.

The Boutique is but one part of the Partners In Care Service Exchange and Time Banking operation which helps older adults live independently in their own homes and actively engage in the community. The Partners In Care offices are located next to the Boutique where we found Director of Operations Amy Van Orden.

Van Orden explained to us that one year ago Partners In Care  incorporated with Hospice of the Chesapeake under an umbrella organization called Chesapeake Health Partners. The incorporation makes PIC stronger and able to reach and care for more people, now and in the future.

“There are still six ways we serve the community through our five original programs,” Van Orden said.

“Our Ride Share Program provides volunteer-driven rides to seniors for medical appointments, errands, and more while our Mobility Bus provides handicap accessible transportation for individuals and groups in Anne Arundel and Frederick counties for doctor appointments and senior outings. Our Member Care Program features Personal Emergency Response Systems, phone buddies, warm houses, and social learning opportunities.

“Our Repairs With Care Program provides skilled volunteers to tackle small handyman tasks so seniors can stay safely in their homes. Our peer-support Veterans-Helping-Veterans Program enables veteran volunteers to serve fellow veterans with dignity and shared understanding. Lastly there are our Boutiques. There are now two, our original Anne Arundel PIC Upscale Resale Boutique here in Pasadena and our Frederick, Maryland Upscale Resale Boutique.”

PIC’s Time-Sharing opportunities remain unchanged with volunteers working three-hour shifts while banking hours for which they’ll receive services in the future. There is a For Fee program allowing those who are not PIC volunteers to pay a monthly fee which allows them four rides per week on top of the other services Partners In Care has to offer.

Van Orden, who worked for a non-profit organization previously, clearly loves her job which includes overseeing day-to-day operations and various events including a Veterans Lunch being held Wednesday, November 12th at Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church.

Moving back into the boutique for a final look around, we took a moment to admire the collection of gems in the fine jewelry case. Jewelry is featured once each year at a fine jewelry sale.

We ran into a customer we already knew – Joyce Leona Cavey a grant writer for Langton Green – who was buying a lovely pair of slippers.

Volunteer Gerri Wilson, who checked Joyce out among others, has worked with PIC for nine years. Wilson said she’s volunteered as a driver and has also worked behind the scenes pricing and prepping donated items but best enjoys being a checker.

For information on Partners In Care and its Boutique, visit Anne Arundel County – Partners in Care.

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. Jing Ying also offers a homeschool Kung Fu program this fall. 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

Small wonder that, for many of us, autumn is a favorite time of year. Late season fruits and vegetables are at their peak. The weather is generally pleasant, flowers are blooming profusely and chrysanthemums, pumpkins, and apples are making an appearance at local produce stands. Nowhere was that more evident this week than at Diehl’s Produce of Annapolis at 921 Chesapeake Avenue in Eastport where there was a steady stream of customers.

A pathway marked by chrysanthemums led customers toward the red striped tents filled with produce and to the field of flowers beyond.

Shoppers hoping to pick up fall-themed porch decorations found a wide array of giant pumpkins, medium sized white or orange pumpkins, pansies, hundreds of chrysanthemums and other seasonal flowers to choose from.

Entering the tents, summer’s bounty and fall’s harvest were on offer. Late season vegetables like tomatoes, string beans, zucchini, summer squash and sweet corn were still available. But there were also pint and quart sized boxes of local Concord grapes. There were Adams County, Pennsylvania apples and pears and numerous pie pumpkins and squashes.

One glance at the pumpkin section had me thinking of recipes for pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread and pumpkin cake (many of which are in the desserts section of this website). The apples conjured up thoughts of making apple pies or apple crisps.

Jase Morin, a familiar face to Diehl’s Produce customers, was restocking the shelves with peppers and cucumbers. Morin, who is primarily a driver, has been with Diehl’s Produce of Annapolis since the stand’s opening.

Today, the stand is one of two locations owned and operated by Abby Diehl. (The other is at Clocktower Place Shopping Center on Forest Drive.)

What is particularly notable about the Eastport location is the fact that it is nestled into a neighborhood setting and easy for locals from Eastport or Annapolis to access.

Throughout our visit, customers could be seen checking their purchases out with Leo Carroll.

According to Carroll, the final day of the season for the produce stand will be October 31st. However, the staff will be back after Thanksgiving to sell Christmas trees, wreaths and evergreens.

As we enter October, there are a few events worth noting.

Our Shepherd Lutheran Church Fall Fest happens October 17th

The congregation of Our Shepherd Lutheran Church at 400 Benfield Road invites the community to join them for Fall Fest on Saturday, October 17th from 2 to 6 pm. There will be activities for kids and adults including Trunk or Treat, a Bounce House, a Halloween Walk, a Pumpkin Patch, Face Painting and Games plus a Biergarten and live music.

All are welcome to join the fun. Fall Fest will benefit Our Shepherd Preschool.

Severna Park Community Center’s Halloween Spooktacular on Friday, October 23

The Severna Park Community Center invites the community to join them for this year’s Halloween Spooktacular on Friday, October 23rd from 5 to 8 pm for an evening of fun. More details will be forthcoming so Save the Date.

SHOPTOBERFEST on Saturday, October 24th at Park Plaza

The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce announced that this year’s Shoptoberfest Shop Local event will be held on Saturday, October 24th at Park Plaza from 11 am till 2:30 pm. There will be lots of local vendors, a Kids’ Costume Contest with treats and prizes and more.

Park Tavern’s 5th annual Pig in the Park event on October 24th

By now a tradition, Park Tavern’s Pig in the Park event “is turning Five” and the public is invited to the party on October 24th from 2 till 5 pm. Your ticket includes an afternoon of tastings, live music, Park Tavern’s roasted pig and buffet with all the fixins, a souvenir glass, a raffle benefiting Special Olympics Maryland, and more. For information, visit Park Tavern | Severna Park, MD.

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. Jing Ying also offers a homeschool Kung Fu program this fall. 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

The casual setting of the Cape St. Claire Improvement Association Club House was the perfect place to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Magothy River Association (MRA) on Sunday, September 20th and to honor the members who’ve made it all possible.

The hard-working Board of Directors was on hand in its entirety as can be seen in the opening photo. The members are, left to right, corresponding secretary Jay Crawford who handles communications and IT, Dr. Sally Hornor who is MRA Vice-President and chief scientist, Karen Royer who is recording secretary, President Paul Spadaro, Brad Knopf who oversees Oyster Restoration & Construction Site Monitoring, events coordinator and community engagement representative Lise Crafton, Cecily Steppe, a marine scientist and ecologist at the US Naval Academy, Steve Miller, and executive assistant Sandy Spadaro. Not pictured is Treasurer Ted Connell.

A significant part of MRA’s membership was on hand for the celebration. The atmosphere was laid back as they enjoyed a menu of tasty dishes like pulled pork and chicken, potato salad and coleslaw, Maggie’s macaroni and cheese and, best of all, plenty of steamed crabs. They also were treated to musical entertainment by popular duo Ginger & the other Dave.

From the all-volunteer Magothy River Association’s very beginnings in 1946, its members have actively participated in preserving and maintaining the health of the Magothy and its watershed. Today, the MRA membership includes 30 communities and 330 individuals.

Numerous examples of the organization’s achievements were on display around the room including newspaper clippings and images from MRA’s historic past along with photographs and articles documenting more recent successes.

As the 80th Anniversary celebration continued to unfold, it was time to recognize those who have made important contributions over the years. By way of thanks for organizing the 80th Anniversary celebration, MRA member Ashley Westbrook presented Lise Crafton with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. (Westbrook is one of the indispensable MRA volunteers who does water quality monitoring.)

Others recognized for important contributions included Charles Germain who was honored for his work creating the Magothy Water Trail videos and the award-winning films about local history he shares with the public through YouTube.

Brad Knopf was recognized for his oyster restoration work while Dr. Sally Hornor was honored for developing the annual State of the Magothy Report. Nick Price received praise for his research on the shipwrecks of the Magothy series and Jack Zuraw was honored for his tremendous support of MRA through the annual Great Chesapeake Bay Skipjack Race with his classic two masted sailboat the Jolly Dolphin.

 Susan Nolte was honored for her late husband Charlie Nolte’s support of MRA and for the continuing support of the entire Nolte family.

Paul Spadaro’s efforts on MRA’s behalf are boundless. Over 30 years as the organization’s president, Spadaro sought out volunteers and board members who were professionals to help him. He’s put in a countless number of hours working in conjunction with Dr. Honor and others on programs ranging from Water Quality Monitoring, Grasses Restoration and the Yellow Perch Study to Education and Outreach. He’s led major efforts involving litigation to preserve the Magothy watershed. He’s either initiated or taken part in projects like oyster restoration, the planting of submerged aquatic vegetation, water quality analysis, and identification of the river’s flora and fauna. He’s also pushed for improved public access to the river.

Councilwoman Amanda Fiedler, a longtime supporter of MRA, was on hand to present Spadaro and MRA with a citation from The County Council of Anne Arundel County.

Maryland State Senator Dawn Gile also presented the Magothy River Association president with a citation from The Maryland General Assembly.

Spadaro proudly showed the citations to those at his table, then added them to the displays around the room.

The 80th anniversary event marked an important milestone for the Magothy River Association but was also a perfect end-of-summer gathering and chance to catch up with friends.

We bumped into Amanda Fiedler and Amy Leahy, both of whom shared concerns they have in common with MRA about the proposed plan for residential development of the Severna Park Golf Center that would affect traffic on Ritchie Highway as well as a stream running through the property.

As the end of the celebration drew near, it was time to serve the piece-de-resistance, the anniversary cake which was expertly cut by Paul Spadaro. As can be seen from the pictures below, the cake was absolutely delicious.

Having helped with cleaning up at party’s end, volunteers Teresa Miller and Ashley Westbrook beamed with smiles over a very successful 80th birthday party. Both are eager to get back to their regular MRA volunteer activities while wondering what meaningful and exciting projects lay ahead.

To follow the activities of the Magothy River Association, visit them at Home – Magothy River Association or Facebook.

Katherine’s Light Foundation, LLC awards $85,000 in grants to five organizations

Katherine’s Light Foundation announced on September 22nd that $85,000 in grant awards were given to five organizations supporting neuroendocrine tumor research, cancer care, education, and patient support.

The grants were made possible by overwhelming support from the Severna Park community at the organization’s June 13th fundraiser at Severna Park Taphouse.

In just three years, Katherine’s Light Foundation has now donated $300,000 to organizations helping those affected by cancer. This year’s grants included $50,000 to Dr. Tanya Stoyanova’s lab at UCLA to support continued NET cancer research, along with grants to Luminis Health DeCesaris Cancer Institute, Baltimore Washington Medical Center Foundation, Wellness House of Annapolis, and Mercy Medical Foundation.

Katherine’s Light Foundation founders Robin and Larry Sells say Katherine’s memory continues to inspire everything the organization continues to do. They are grateful to every donor, sponsor, volunteer, friend, and supporter who has helped them carry her light forward.

A reminder: Trinity Bible Church’s Fall Festival this Saturday, September 26

Hard to believe that autumn is here! Trinity Bible Church, at 99 Truck House Road, will celebrate the season by holding its 4th Annual Fall Festival this Saturday, September 26th from 11 am till 2 pm. The free community event includes lunch (burger/hotdog, drink, chips) and an assortment of fun activities ranging from horseback riding, Moon bounce and photo booth to games and crafts, snow cones, bingo, and more. Check it out at TBC’s 4th Annual Fall Festival | Facebook.

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. Jing Ying also offers a homeschool Kung Fu program this fall. 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

It was as much a surprise for Side Street Framers & Gift Gallery co-owner Dawn Wilson as it was for me to discover the deep blue logo of Paris Baguette Bakery Cafe and photos of pastries emblazoned on the windows of one half of the Park Plaza storefront occupied for 33 years by Ledo’s Pizza. Though she had no idea who the new owner might be or when the cafe would open, Wilson was delighted.

“I can’t wait to try it,” she said. “There’s been no place nearby to enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry or sandwich during a break. I believe the company is a franchise and there’s one in Annapolis that my sister visited. She said it was wonderful.”

The cafe specializes in fresh baked breads, handcrafted pastries. coffee and espresso, beverages, salads and sandwiches and signature cakes and desserts.

Rosso Commercial Real Estate Services shared the news in March that the Paris Baguette Bakery Cafe franchise at Park Plaza would be one of two coming to the area soon. The other is at 1709–1713 Nursery Road in Linthicum Heights.

Like Wilson, most of the Severna Park business community was unaware the restaurant would be opening at Park Plaza. Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber CEO Liz League hadn’t yet seen the artwork on the windows but was eager to learn who the franchisee was. Hopefully, we’ll know more soon.

Meantime, thanks to the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce, we learned that the Grand Opening of the Sweet Escape Bookshop will be hosted by BD Provisions on Sunday, August 16th from Noon till 4 pm with a celebratory Ribbon Cutting at 12:30 pm.

We had an opportunity to catch up with Severna Park resident Nancy Vazquez who is the owner of the Sweet Escape Bookshop. Vazquez filled us in on how she came up with the unique idea of a bookstore on wheels – a quaint and cozy shop full of fun and interesting reads that can set up in the heart of the community or travel farther afield.

Vazquez told us she’s always loved to read and seems to connect well with others for whom reading is a passion.

“I’d dreamed of someday opening an actual brick and mortar bookstore, perhaps with a small coffee shop attached,” she said. “That was my inspiration – to bring the joy of reading that it’s been for me to others. For now, I don’t have the capital for such an investment.

But looking through social media one day, I came across several sites belonging to women who have ‘mobile’ bookstores. One example, posted by a woman from Las Vegas, showed an enclosed trailer converted into a mobile bookshop that was so smart and appealing that I was hooked on doing something like it.”

Though convinced that opening a mobile bookshop would be ideal for her, Vazquez hesitated, going back and forth in her mind about whether to establish one. Fearful of taking the leap, she talked it over with her husband who encouraged her to give it a try. The decision made, she faced the question “How do I get a truck and what should it be like?”

Examples of mobile bookshops she subsequently explored were generally trucks, but she wanted something enclosed and opted for a trailer 6 ft. x 12 ft. with room for two or three people to fit inside at once – a magical space customers could enjoy.

Vazquez purchased the trailer in late December 2025, but it’s taken her until now to get everything completed – from designing and creating the trailer’s exterior artwork and interior decor (a work in progress) to sourcing the books and building her inventory. Books for adults will all be new, so she’s been learning how to purchase them through wholesalers.

The inventory’s wide range of books will include sections for romance, fantasy, thrillers and mysteries, books currently popular and books appealing to young adults. As the bookshop has already received donations of gently used children’s books from friends and others, there will be a pre-loved children’s section. Kids 10 and under will be welcome to pick out a book for free.

A particularly important consideration for Vazquez was when and where to set up the Sweet Escape Bookshop trailer, so she reached out to local businesses. Thankfully, BD Provisions co-owner Debra Saltz, an avid reader, was delighted with the idea. She not only invited Vazquez to bring the Sweet Escape trailer to BD Provisions as often as she wishes but agreed to host the bookshop’s Grand Opening and ribbon cutting on Sunday, August 16.

Vaquez is also partnering with Himmel’s Landscape & Garden Center in Pasadena. (Owner Elizabeth is another devoted reader.) Other possible locations for Sweet Escape Bookshop to set up include local coffee shops and small businesses. Taking part in local events is on the agenda too. To learn more about Sweet Escape Bookshop, visit Facebook.

Romilo’s Restaurant closed as of August 3rd with new owner yet to be announced

It was with a heavy heart that owner Chris Paradissis announced on the company’s website and Facebook page the temporary closing of Romilo’s Restaurant & Bar on August 3rd for the transition to new ownership. Paradissis was the owner of the family-owned restaurant for the past nine years of its 33-year history as a Severna Park landmark. He expressed his deepest gratitude to his customers for their loyal patronage, wonderful memories and support.

We’ll keep you updated as the new owner is announced.

Meet The Providers Open House happening next Wednesday, August 12th

Kathy Grote, owner of Integrative Family NP LLC, announced that a “Wide Open House” is being held to Meet The Providers of healthcare services at 815 Ritchie Highway this coming Wednesday, August 12th from 5 to 7 pm. In addition to Integrative Family NP LLC, providers from Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services, Magothy River Counselling, Anchor Family Dentistry, Allstate, Expecting Emily and Anchorage Counselling will be on hand to greet the public. For more information, visit Facebook.

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. The school will be holding a fun-filled summer camp this August. 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,

Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

and Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena

The second annual Chris Gives Foundation Music Festival was in full swing as I walked through the patio area at the Severna Park Taphouse last Saturday. Dennis Marsh, vocalist with the classic rock band Genghis Kahn, was in the midst of a harmonica solo on Aerosmith’s “Same Old Song and Dance” to the delight of listeners.

Saturday’s weather absolutely sizzled but band members kept their cool. In addition to Marsh, on vocals and harmonica, lead guitarist Bill Manning, drummer Butch German, bassist Kevin Orsey and singer/guitarist/keyboardist Rob Yesker entertained the crowd with covers of a selection of familiar classics. As might be expected, attendees sought the shadiest spots possible from which to enjoy Genghis Kahn.

At one table, longtime friends and supporters of the late Chris Mohns, Carlos and Annette Aguilar, Jackie Ruckelhaus and son Benson were listening to the music while ordering food and tall, cold drinks.

The Chris Gives Foundation was formed to carry on the legacy of Christopher Mohns, Sr., franchise owner of four Midas Auto Repair shops located in Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton who was known and admired for helping countless individuals and families going through rough times financially and in need of critical auto repairs. Mohns and his wife Robin had planned to expand his charitable efforts prior to his death in June of 2022. The foundation was formed later that year to carry on his work.

On the lawn, to one side of the performance venue, a life-sized representation of the late Chris Mohns appeared to watch over proceedings at the Midas 50/50 and Silent Auction tents.

Thanks to generous donations from individuals, local businesses and sponsors, the Silent Auction and 50/50 tents were filled with beautifully packaged gift baskets and prizes. Sponsors for the music fest were many and included Midas of Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel & Wheaton, MBS Mechanical HVAC,  Blue Ridge Risk Partners Ins, JC Hot Rods & Restos, Napa Auto Parts and Moro & Associates CPA.

The Silent Auction tent was where we also caught up with Bladen Wheatley, a 17-year-old junior who is the Chris Gives Foundation recipient of a new program for students.

Starting this year, foundation president Robin Mohns made arrangements to offer scholarships to students at three high schools in the area that offer an auto repair curriculum – CAT-North (Center of Applied Technology-North) in Pasadena, CAT-South in Edgewater, and Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring. The organization was able to provide scholarships or $750 worth of Craftsman tools for five students. Wheatley was one of them.

“I actually completed the auto repair technician program at CAT-North and am already working at an automotive repair service in Glen Burnie,” Wheatley said. “It was definitely good to receive the Craftsman tools in lieu of a scholarship or money. It’s hard to know where to allocate money but tools are a necessity and are invaluable.”

Wheatley added that, in addition to basics like oil changes, much of what he learned at CAT-North involved electronics. He said a lot of auto repair has morphed into changing out things instead of repairing them.

We really weren’t surprised to find a couple of just-arrived Midas auto repair technicians cooling their heels at a table overlooking the band. Steve Rogers and Jessie Easton have some great advice for students hoping to enter the auto repair trade like Bladen Wheatley.

“Show up…and be on time,” cautions Rogers.

Easton revealed that the auto repair trade has become much more complicated over the past decade and most definitely requires a greater knowledge of electronics meaning some schooling is required.

“I grew up working on cars, went to Lincoln Tech and have worked for Midas ever since,” he said.

Roger’s experience was much the same. Both felt that the Chris Gives Foundation gifts of tools to several students were immensely helpful.

We noted quite a few volunteers working the music fest, some of whom were CGF board members. We found Dreama Stearn, Janet Smith and Cathryn Oliver at the Midas booth. Just inside the Taphouse entrance, we discovered Francesca Crocombe, Kristina Hemmings and Julie Hemmings minding the door prize and raffle ticket table in airconditioned comfort.

“We have the best seats in the house,” Julie said.

The event rolled along nicely and we met a table of devoted foundation supporters including Chris Weiss and wife Becky, Colleen & John Connor and Tyler Brisbane. Weiss is a six franchise Midas owner.

“We all knew Chris Moans well,” he said. “This is the second year we’ve attended the music festival.”

As Genghis Kahn ended their set and the sound crew appeared to set up for the next band, music festival emcee Larry Sells appeared onstage along with Midas franchise owner Robin Mohns for some special announcements.

Not only did Moans acknowledge Bladen Wheatley as the recipient of a set of Craftsman tools with which to begin his career but asked him to stand and take a bow. She also acknowledged the Turner and Waller families who the Chris Gives Foundation helped with critically needed auto repairs. Both families work hard and serve their communities but were recently faced with financial challenges.

“It was an honor to be able help you,” Robin said.

Sells, Mohns, and the excellent CGF volunteers next moved quickly through the announcement of Silent Auction, 50/50 and raffle winners.

…and then, the venue was once more alive with the sound of music as the band 8 Ball Deluxe took the stage, bringing their own brand of rock, Motown, soul and pop to the audience.

Mark Weaver on vocals, harmonica and keyboard, vocalist Angie Crowell, guitarist Sandy Cormack, bassist Paul Jones and Doug Workman on drums and vocals kept listeners rocking.

Severna Park’s 50th Anniversary Independence Day Parade to be quite an occasion

The Severna Park Independence Day parade had very humble beginnings. In 1974, the late Hammond S. “Skip” Carr and few others decided that the town ought to have a 4th of July Parade.

Lew Heck, who worked with Carr in real estate, remembered that, at the time, Skip’s stepson had an old truck which they decorated. Then they rounded up a bunch of kids and paraded up and down B&A Boulevard.

The first official Severna Park Independence Day Parade took place in 1975 and was organized and sponsored by the Severna Park Chamber of Commerce. It was fairly ambitious with mobile units, floats from local businesses and organizations including Hammond S. Carr, the Severna Park High School Marching Band and majorettes among other entries.

Carr, Heck and John and Lucia Robinson came up with the idea of putting Robinson’s band, The Severna Park Bums, on a decorated truck to entertain the crowd and they became a mainstay of the parade for many years. Heck also recalled that a Jaycees women’s group participated with a lawn chair drill team that featured choreographed maneuvers with folding chairs.

By 1978, Lou Heck and crew had improved their skills enough to build a log cabin to promote Carr’s real estate business “though it looked more like an outhouse than a cabin”. For quite a few years, Heck built most of the floats and, by the 1990’s, he’d become a self-proclaimed “chicken wire genius”.

His 1993 entry “All God’s Children Need Homes” was inspired by Old Mother Hubbard.

The Eagle, one of Lew Heck’s finest and most popular creations, starred his son Nelson as the Indian chief in the canoe.

The 4th of July Parade buzzed along nicely for many years, reaching a high point in 2009 with many unique entries. They included a stagecoach with a full team of horses.

Vintage tractors and wagons from Kinder Farm Park appeared with chickens and ducks as well as goats and lambs that trotted alongside their 4H handlers or hitched a ride.

Everyone loved the Lone Ranger and Silver and children were delighted by the appearance of the Jing Ying Institute lions bobbing in and out of the crowds while performing the Lion Dance.

Following the parade many spectators migrated to the annual Independence Day celebration at Cypress Creek Park where the Kinder Farm animals luxuriated in the shade of the tall oaks.

In later years, intense competition occurred between neighborhoods to see which could build the best floats. Since this year’s efforts honor the Severna Park 4th of July Parade’s 50th Anniversary, we’ll expect more of the same as the Linstead, Round Bay and Olde Severna Park neighborhoods vie with Shipley’s Choice and newer neighborhoods for first place. Competition is also keen among float builders from businesses like Homestead Gardens and organizations like the Lion’s Club and Republican Women’s Club.

The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber announced that Severna Park historian Scott Jay has been chosen the Grand Marshall for this historic parade. Chamber CEO Liz League surprised us with the news that, after being absent for several years, Kinder Farm Park’s vintage tractors and wagons will once more be rolling down the parade route with the animals and their 4H handlers.

The parade participants will step off from their starting points at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church and St. Martin’s in-the Field Church onto Benfield Road at 10 am, proceed down Benfield to Riggs Avenue passing the judges stand in the middle of Olde Severna Park. They’ll then turn right onto Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard before making a left onto Cypress Creek Road to parade’s end at Cypress Creek Park. The parade will be over at noon.

Katherine’s Light Foundation Music Festival & Charity Event raises over $74,000

We were informed by board member Larry Sells that the Katherine’s Light Foundation Music Festival and Charity Event held on June 14th raised $74,697.53.

“However, money is still coming in and it looks as if we’ll have closer to $77,000,” Sells said.

The money will be distributed to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation, the Wellness House of Annapolis, Anne Arundel Community College where KLF funds a Katherine Mueller Nursing Scholarship and a Baltimore Washington Medical Center Foundation fund to help cancer patients who can’t afford transportation, food or medications to help with their treatment.

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

The Smithsonian Institution has long been referred to as America’s attic because of the organization’s vast collections. But, little did I realize that we could visit a nearby extension of that attic until visiting Homestead Gardens recent Green Expo. There, we discovered an interesting exhibit from the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center manned by volunteers Jim Oland and Nora Terres. The pair informed us that the center is located on two adjoining campuses in Edgewater at 647 Contees Wharf Road. What truly fascinated us, however, is that the complex is situated around a historic home built in 1735 by tobacco planter William Sellman.

Celebrating its 60th Anniversary this year, the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) began as a surprise bequest. Entrepreneur Robert Lee Forrest willed his abandoned Java Dairy Farm (the ruins of which still exist) and other holdings on Maryland’s Rhode River to the Smithsonian Institution.  The research center was officially established in 1965 as the Chesapeake Bay Center for Field Biology.

On Tuesday, we met with Woodlawn History Center Program Manager Christine Dunham and Principal Archaeology Investigator Jim Gibb. We learned from Jim that an initial grant from the Ford Foundation and subsequent grants enabled the Smithsonian to purchase additional acreage over the years. Today SERC encompasses 2,650 contiguous acres of land.

Gibbs heads the Environmental Archaeology Lab, one of 24 SERC research labs that run the gamut from Animal- Plant Interaction and Fish and Invertebrate Ecology to Forest Ecology, Nutrient Cycles, and Photobiology and Solar Radiation. His team, made up of volunteer archaeologists, has dedicated considerable time and effort to sifting through the soils of the grounds surrounding the original Sellman House (now Woodlawn House). They have unearthed evidence tracing human occupation back 3,000 years to the Native Americans (possibly Nanticoke) who used the property as seasonal hunting and fishing grounds.

“Our work is primarily involved with land usage, so we haven’t delved that much into Native American habitation,” Gibbs said. “We’re more focused on European settlers’ arrival on the land in the 1660’s. The land here mainly consisted of two tobacco plantations.”

The team has conducted digs at several sites surrounding the Sellman house including one settled by English emigrants Thomas Sparrow and his family in 1649. They’ve also unearthed a nearby site settled by the Shaw family. They named the property Shaw’s Folly and resided there until the mid 1700’s when taken over by the Sellman family. Among other things, Gibbs and the team have collected animal bones, pottery shards and other items that show how the land was being used.

The Sellman/Woodlawn house is overseen Christine Dunham. She also created the Woodlawn History Trail which starts opposite the home and runs through a great deal of the property.

The History Trail is beautiful and takes visitors across a startling amount of spectacular land, and up hills past the Java mansion ruins that must have been breathtaking at one time. The ruins are the site of extensive work by Gibbs’ Archaeology Lab team.

Dunham’s historical focus includes assembling and managing an impressive number of volunteers who serve as docents leading tours across both the Woodlawn and Waterfront portions of the SERC campus.

Dunham and Gibbs have worked well together assembling displays of the artifacts the archeology team has collected, providing ecological clues to how the Research Center’s lands were originally used and how they have changed through the centuries.

“The land here has always been under cultivation and continues to be. However, SERC currently leases the land to local farmers,” Gibbs said.

“The center hasn’t yet done any agricultural research but that’s a possibility for the future. Instead, my team has explored layer after layer of formerly farmed land and documented how there has been tremendous soil erosion and depletion of nutrients for centuries, almost from the very beginnings of cultivation here. We’ve proven that the majority of eroded soils have ended up in our tributaries, blocking their waters from flowing freely.”

The team has also been able to document what crops were raised where. For example, after switching from primarily growing tobacco, the Sellman farm preferred beef and raised cattle and the grain to feed them while the Java farm, originally owned by the Contee family, preferred pork and raised hogs.

A tour through Woodlawn House led by Dunham, would show just what the archaeology team’s knowledge was based on.

Dunham began the tour in the reception area. She first showed us a model of the Sellman/Woodlawn House. A chart above the model details changes to the home from the time it was constructed for planter William Sellman and family in 1735 and modified through two centuries of ownership by the Sellman family until the early 1900’s when a new family, the Kirkpatrick-Howats moved in. In the 1970’s, the Kirkpatrick-Howats demolished a previous wooden addition and added a passive solar wing to reduce energy costs.

in 2020, SERC rehabilitated the house, preserving the historic structure while modifying the interior to allow for public access and exhibits. Dunham next leads us through the actual entrance to Woodlawn House, entering a room that was part of the original two-room 1735 Sellman House. As can be seen below, the room still has its original fireplace that would have been used for cooking.

We moved on to an open exhibit space for items dating to the 1600’s and early 1700’s that were gathered from archaeological excavations at Sparrow’s Rest and Shaw’s Folly. The artifacts included metal and bone eating utensils, animal bones, hunting and fishing equipment, sewing tools, and keys among other items.

Panels depicting the history of the lands, plantations, inhabitants and events are also seen in this display room.

Additions to the Sellman House over the centuries were well done with high ceilings, fine woodwork and rooms that flow nicely into one another. Entering what would have been the front parlor, we viewed a magnificent fireplace complete with two portraits of gracious ladies from the Sellman family.

A second parlor lay just beyond and this room and represents the years the home was owned by the Kirkpatrick-Howat family. Family portraits of three of the Kirkpatrick-Howats are seen above the fireplace. Hidden on the wall to the left of the fireplace, a bell-pull still exists that was used to summon slaves or servants.

Dunham pointed out two historic panels with explanations of exactly which families lived in the Sellman/Woodlawn House and when. The first is dedicated exclusively to the Sellmans.

The second panel covers all of those who lived in the Woodlawn House through just short of three centuries.

A third panel grabbed our interest because it details the Sellman’s rise from being indentured servants themselves to plantation owners and slaveholders.

One of the most fascinating things concerning the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center grounds, from Christine Dunham’s point of view, is the Java Mansion site which began its existence as Annapolis merchant Nicholas Maccubbin’s mansion Squirrel Neck in 1747. It was purchased in 1820 by Lieutenant John Contee who’d served aboard the USS Constitution which defeated the HMS Java off the coast of Brazil in December 1812. He renamed the mansion Java in honor of the victory. The mansion was struck by lightning and burned in 1890 but was rebuilt. It was owned briefly by Elizabeth Kirkpatrick-Howat and her family before they purchased Woodlawn. In 1915, entrepreneur Robert Lee Forrest purchased and operated the property as the Java Dairy Farm through 1946. The farm was, for the time, a state-of-the-art operation promoting a clean sanitary environment and doing well.

In 1962 Robert Lee Forrest passed away and bequeathed his 368 acre farm and other holdings to the Smithsonian Institution. New Secretary, S. Dillon Ripley, persuaded the Institution to consider holding onto the property. Blessed with a wide range of habitats for terrestrial, wetland, and estuarine field biology and ecology, it became the Chesapeake Bay Center for Field Biology in 1965 and served as a field collecting site for Smithsonian scientists. A series of financial grants made it possible to purchase more acres of adjoining land and an old cow barn was converted to laboratory space and a dormitory. Changing its name in 1969 to the Chesapeake Bay Center for Environmental Studies, the facility was attracting lots of positive attention, drawing more and more scientists and acquiring more connecting land. In 1985, the facility was renamed the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. 

While Gibbs’ archaeology work takes place primarily at Woodlawn and nearby locations (also offsite including at a shell button making site on the Delmarva Peninsula and a copper mining site in Carroll County) the work of most of the other scientists takes place on the Waterfront Campus and the facilities there are amazing. There is the modernistic 92,000 square ft. LEED-Platinum Charles McC. Mathias building with 69,000 square ft. of office and laboratory space, on-site solar energy production and geothermal heating and cooling.

We were also able to drive by the Phillip D. Reed Education Center arranges class/ group field trips to the Rhode River site for about 5,000 school children annually and is a hub for 10,000 visitors to the Research Center’s 7 miles of hiking trails.

Soon, thereafter, we came to the SERC dock located along the Rhode River with its wet lab which also serves as a canoe and kayak launching site.

Driving further around the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center before leaving, we noticed groups of walkers taking advantage of the Woodlawn History Trail and lots of bicyclists along the other scenic trails. There is so much to see and do.

Taking Christine Dunham’s reminder that the Woodlawn History Center has limited visiting hours on weekends seriously, we decided to check. We found that Woodlawn House is now open on the first Sunday of each month from 1 to 4 pm for “Summer Sundays”.

Woodlawn History Center is also open on select Saturdays with dates and times listed at Woodlawn History Center | Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (si.edu). You can contact Christine Dunham at dunhamc@si.edu or 443-482-2293 for private or group tours or to check Woodlawn History Center open days.

For information on the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center and its many scientific research programs, visit Smithsonian Environmental Research Center | Understanding Ecosystems for a Sustainable Future (si.edu) .

Katherine’s Light Foundation Music Festival at Severna Park Taphouse on June 14th

We hear that this year’s Katherine’s Light Foundation Music Festival & Charity Event being held at the Severna Park Taphouse on Saturday, June 14 from noon to 8 pm will be sensational. Held annually to honor the memory of Katherine Mueller, the event offers a full day of music, raffles, silent and live auctions, and much more. Headliners, The Crayfish, will be joined by the Lost and Found Trio Band, Miggs Rangel, dj Brian Austin, George Evans, Honey Sol, TMI and others. Proceeds from the event support Neuroendocrine Tumor Research, Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Katherine Light Foundation Nursing scholarships at Anne Arundel Community College, the Wellness House of Annapolis and more. Those interested in sponsoring the event may contact Larry Sells at 443-569-9598. For more information, visit Facebook.

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.

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

Christopher Mohns, Sr., the franchise owner of four Midas Auto Repair shops located in Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton, was known and admired for his caring nature and generosity. He’d helped individuals and families going through rough times financially and in need of critical auto repairs countless times over the years.

Mohns’ good deeds were an inspiration to all of those who knew him including his wife Robin, who worked with him as a business partner. He’d talked with her in June of 2022 about expanding the number of people they could help. Sadly, two days after their conversation, he passed away at the age of 67.

Robin Mohns never, in her wildest dreams, imagined she’d be involved with a non-profit foundation. But she was determined to carry on her husband’s legacy and founded the Chris Gives Foundation shortly after his death. In addition to assisting families and individuals struggling to pay for auto repairs, the foundation funds scholarships for high school students pursuing an auto repair curriculum.

We learned about the foundation when introduced to Robin by Nancy Greer during the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s Spring SHOP LOCAL Fun Festival. We’d also heard about the fundraiser being held for the Chris Gives Foundation on June 21 at the Severna Park Taphouse featuring two bands and emceed by Larry Sells and wanted to know more.

Robin met with us last week to provide more information about the foundation and the fundraiser. We also chatted about the curious path her life took from meeting Chris Mohns in 1984 to meeting him again in 2018 and marrying him a year later.

Living in Cumberland, Maryland in 1984, she’d attended a community college but decided to finish her degree at the University of Maryland in College Park. Her brother lived in Columbia at the time and she figured she’d spend the summer there and get a job to get acclimated to the area. She answered an ad for what was then the Midas Muffler franchise in Laurel, halfway between Columbia and College Park.

“When I walked in to apply for the job, I found the man who would be my future husband standing behind the counter,” Robin said. “His father owned 12 Midas Muffler shops at the time and Chris was running that one.”

After filling out an application and convincing him she was serious about the job, he interviewed and hired her. Though meant to be a summer job, Robin was good at it and worked for a total of six months. Mohns was older and she wasn’t really interested in him other than as her boss. But he did make quite an impact on her young life.

She was impressed by the way he dealt with customers, by his charitable nature, by his ability to spot people who were in distress and by his desire to help them.

“The things I learned from him like an emphasis on customer service stayed with me for many years and served me well in my career,” she said.

There was no Internet or cell phones during those years, and Robin lost touch with him. But Chris didn’t forget her. Five years later, he tried and succeeded in locating her back in Cumberland where she moved when her father became ill.

“He sent me an old-fashioned letter that I didn’t answer thinking that there was no point since we lived so far apart and I had a career. But flash forward 34 years to 2018 when we rediscovered each other on Facebook,” she said. “We reconnected and immediately knew we wanted to be together for the rest of our lives.” One year later, we married in August of 2019.”

Chris had two Midas shops at the time, but they became partners and ended up acquiring two more shops and making all business decisions for the four shops together.  

The couple continued Chris’ practice of gifting auto repairs including presenting one to Dennis McQuire on Valentine’s Day in 2020.

“I thank God for that time with my husband because he passed away so unexpectedly,” Robin said. “Thinking back, I realize there may have been some signs that he wasn’t quite as well as he seemed.”

One morning, he asked her to come into his study and told her he felt they’d been blessed to spend money on things they wanted and enjoyed, and it was now time to focus on others. They made a pact to do more to help people. Two days later he passed away.

“We were thrilled because we’d just bought a Condo in Ocean City. We were about to take out a new boat we’d bought when he suffered heart failure and died instantly,” she said.

His words from two days before, seemed to have been a message to her and an inspiration to carry on with what he’d been planning. So, a short time later, she started the Chris Gives Foundation.

“It went a little slowly since I was grieving and suddenly had four Midas auto repair shops to run,” Robin noted. “I was going through a huge learning curve figuring out how to run the shops by myself. Nevertheless, I put together a board of directors – a great group of people who are all volunteers.”

“We began by hosting an annual fundraising event. The first one, held at Baldwin Hall in Millersville in 2023, was more of a memorial to Chris and kick-off for the charity. We then started doing what my husband used to do naturally, helping people who work and make a difference but are suffering financial setbacks and unable afford critically needed auto repairs. We received referrals from churches and other organizations about people who could use our assistance.”

One family the Chris Gives Foundation was particularly pleased to help was that of disabled veteran Patrick Turner who’d just moved from Florida to Maryland with his family including a disabled child. The Turner family was distressed to learn that, to pass a Maryland inspection, they needed auto repairs totaling $4,000. They had no idea how they were going to come up with that amount of money and were extremely grateful when the foundation offered to pay for the repairs.

A second important element for the Chris Gives Foundation is something Robin strongly cares about.

“Running the four auto repair shops, I came to realize there are not a lot of eligible auto repair technicians out there. There is definitely a shortage of them,” she said. “I’m a big fan of trade schools having attended a Votech program when I was young. So, I started looking at high schools in the area that offer an auto repair curriculum and was pleasantly surprised to find three, CAT-North (Center of Applied Technology-North) in Pasadena, CAT-South in Edgewater, and Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring.”

She began talking to all three schools about offering scholarships. The Chris Gives Foundation board met to vote on Robin’s scholarship proposal and were excited to voice their approval. The scholarship program ties in nicely with the foundation’s mission to invest in the future, empowering individuals and families by enhancing opportunities for them and hopefully strengthening the workforce.

These days learning to be an auto repair technician is complicated. Students need to have their own tools which are incredibly expensive, and they also have to learn the computer technology installed in today’s automobiles.

The foundation held its first award ceremony at CAT-North in Pasadena last week and awarded two students $750 worth of tools each. This week they’re going to Thomas Edison to award $l,500 worth of tools for two additional students.

“We chose tools because they are so vital to a career as an auto repair technician and so costly,” Robin said before personally awarding $750 worth of tools to students Alejandro Hernandez and Bladen Taylor.

She noted that both students will be introduced during the Chris Gives Foundation Fundraiser being held June 21 from noon to 10 pm at the Severna Park Taphouse.

The fundraising event features the bands Genghis Kahn and 8-Ball Deluxe and Robin’s friend and mentor Larry Sells will be the emcee.

To follow the activities of the Chris Gives Foundation visit Facebook.

Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber announces July 4th Parade Grand Marshall

The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that this year’s Independence Day Parade Grand Marshal is the noted town historian Scott Jay.

“It is such a fitting selection for our 50th Anniversary as Scott was born and raised in Severna Park, has lived here all his life and is our town’s local historian,” commented Chamber CEO Liz League.

Parenting for a Different World Happiness Hour at the Yoga Barn on June 6th

On Friday June 6th, from 5 to 6 pm, area residents are invited to attend Parenting for a Different World “Happiness Hour” at the Yoga Barn at 44 West Earleigh Heights Road in Severna Park.  We will be practicing breathing exercises, stretching, and other relaxation techniques to encourage healthy coping skills and self-care. It’s a lot of fun, very peaceful and perfect for anyone age about 10 on up through adults.  For more information, visit Facebook.

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.

And, we welcome a new sponsor this week. Midas of Annapolis and Pasadena, A family- owned business with four locations (Annapolis, Pasadena, Laurel and Wheaton) and 40 years’ experience and the backing of a national brand, they are committed to earning customers’ trust by offering the expertise, value and responsiveness they 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

and Lean on Dee Senior Home Care Services

Riding around Langton Green Community Farm on a UTV with farm director John Iaquinta on a sunny spring day was bound to be fun. Passing by several farm workers pruning blackberry bushes and a flock of hens, we headed for one of the farm’s hoop houses to meet new farm manager Sam Garrett.

Now that he’d completed transferring seedlings from the greenhouse to the long, perfectly formed rows in the hoop house, Garrett was keeping an eye on them – especially since the roof blew off its frame a few days ago in the recent winds and had to be wrestled back on.

Luckily, the atmosphere inside was warm and pleasant when we stepped in.

“In combination with moisture and light, our well-prepared rows with their balanced mix of nutrients are perfect for growing greens, ” he said. “We’ve planted tiny seedlings of leeks, kale, spinach, lettuces and arugula and they are loving it.”

We followed Garrett back to the farm’s headquarters where he and Iaquinta led the way to a room flooded with pink light from two layers of specially designed florescent tubes. Both men acknowledged that the lighting is an experiment – one that seems to be working well.

“These are dwarf tomato plants which only grow to about 12 inches,” noted the farm manager. “You can see that they are already flowering. We have an orange variety, a yellow variety and a typical red. The fruit will be standard cherry tomato sized.”

Iaquinta added that the dwarf tomato seedlings are one among many varieties of flowers and vegetables being grown for Langton Green’s annual Spring Plant Sale being held at the Millersville-based acreage on May 3rd.

Stepping past farm cat Atticus in the hall, we entered a room with dozens more plants that were hale and hearty thanks to an abundance of windows that provided optimum lighting conditions.

The busiest place of all was a nearby greenhouse where there were hundreds of flats of seedlings at various stages of growth. Garrett and farm assistant Madison Smith (also seen in the opening photo) were pleased with the progress of the tomatoes and super healthy lettuce they are growing hydroponically along with regular plantings of the Asian salad green tatsoi, multi-colored chard and mustard greens.

Allegheny blackberry transplants were easy for Garrett to grow from cuttings, but growing cotton as an experiment has him crossing his fingers. He said it takes up to 180 days till it’s ready for harvest. He’ll plant the cotton in a few different locations to see where it does best.

Rosemary, lavender, thyme, and primrose transplants gave way to adobo and golden Bell pepper plants and several purple potato plants. Even the youngest seedlings need attention from Sam and Madison with watering and occasional weeding.

Now in its 11th year of operation, Langton Green Community Farm has undergone many changes and made considerable progress according to John Iaquinta.

“We’ve had several different farm managers over the years, each with a different agricultural background and different set of skills. They’ve made a big difference in elevating our operation to the professional gardening level.”

When the COVID pandemic hit, there was more of a shift to environmental science. The farm brought in managers focused on soil process who established a blueprint for what is being done now.

According to Iaquinta, the farm managers, workers and volunteers initially concentrated on growing summer produce. But they are now pushing to grow produce 12 months of the year. They’re planning to sustain production by growing cool weather varieties, utilizing the greenhouses, and adding some hydroponically raised salad greens.

Garrett plans to experiment with the science of aquaponics wherein you introduce a fish or a shrimp to the irrigation water for whatever plant you are growing, using their waste as the main nutrient source.

With the arrival of spring, the farm will pick up the pace. Langton Green’s CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program will begin on March 17th. Participants will pay an initial flat rate of $200 to get an entire summer’s worth of handpicked produce. There will be six to eight things in each box ranging from salad greens, tomatoes, peppers and other vegetables to strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and fruit from the orchard.

Iaquinta said the farm can now support up to 25 or 30 CSA customers, supply produce for farm donors and sponsors, and supply produce and fresh eggs for Langton Green’s homes for developmentally disabled individuals. They also partner with SPAN, Inc. to provide fresh produce for their clients.

As mentioned previously, Langton Green Community Farm’s Spring Plant Sale will take place on May 3rd when most of what’s being raised in the greenhouses will be offered to the public.

Between 26 and 30 community plots will shortly be made available to the public as well. There will be no charge for the plots, but participants are asked to volunteer four of five hours of labor to the farm.

Limited “Pick Your Own” days for strawberries, blueberries or blackberries are on the agenda for this spring and an online “storefront” is being launched where customers can order fruits or vegetables from the Langton Green website Langton Green Community Farm | (langtongreenfarm.com) or by visiting Facebook. The produce ordered will be handpicked on Fridays and be ready for pickup on Saturdays.

A visit to Langton Green Community Farm is always entertaining. Twenty-five adults with disabilities work there tending the livestock or working in the gardens or greenhouses. There are 35 to 40 chickens of various breeds, four goats and a similar number of pigs that children just love to visit. Artwork is woven throughout the grounds amidst raised flower and vegetable beds. Best of all, there are programs and activities to enjoy including “First Saturday” events featuring musical performances, storytelling or other forms of entertainment.

Though located off busy General’s Highway in Millersville, a visit to the farm feels like going to the country. The produce raised there is great throughout the spring, summer and fall and the prices are super competitive.

A reminder: Tickets still available for Severn Cross Roads Wine, Cheese and Chocolate St. Patrick’s Day fundraiser being held this Saturday, March 15

The Severn Cross Roads Foundation still has some tickets available for Historic Baldwin Hall’s annual event – the Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Fundraiser being held this Saturday, March 15th from 7-10 pm.  Tickets for the St. Patrick’s Day themed event may be ordered by calling 410-409-0187, by emailing: 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.

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

High-rise apartments, townhouses and high-density development areas resembling Annapolis Town Center (seen in the photograph above) could be in the near future for Severna Park if a bill being debated by the Anne Arundel County Council is passed.

We were alerted by friend and Severna Park resident Amy Badger Laque’s repost of a Magothy River Association Facebook post notifying the public that the Anne Arundel County Council is debating Bill 2-25 which would fast-track such high-density construction in several locations throughout the county including the Route 2 (Ritchie Highway) corridor.

Badger’s repost urged her friends to view the MRA post (including the map seen below) showing the area of the community affected and then reach out to the County Council. Like many residents who moved to Severna Park for good schools and a high standard of living, she’s disappointed and disillusioned by the overdevelopment of the area.

“For example, there are five public storage facilities within half a mile of my home off Jumper’s Mill Road, none of which are at capacity,” she said. “The amount of building is unconscionable and completely contradicts County Executive Steuart Pittman’s purported stance. It’s also a bit ironic, considering the Green Infrastructure Master Plan.”

In addition to opposition from the Magothy River Association, Bill 2-25 has also been a topic of concern at two successive meetings of the Greater Severna Park Council according to board president Maureen Carr York.

“We first met two weeks ago to discuss the matter after which board members Craig Meyers and Doug Nichols wrote up a statement of concern regarding the bill which was proposed by County Executive Pittman,” Carr said.

She further noted that, because the Council has existed since the 1960’s to preserve the character and small town feel of Severna Park, similar issues have come up before. The members are overwhelmingly convinced that Bill 2-25 and similar proposals would be overwhelmingly bad for the community and residents feel the same way.

In 2012, Carr was a member of a Citizens Advisory Committee regarding the Transportational Functional Master Plan for 2040.

“At that time, the planners were advocating for transit-oriented development and high-density housing in areas they described as ‘much bigger than Annapolis Town Center’ with high-speed buses,” she said. “We didn’t favor the plan.”

The GSPC board’s second meeting, with Amanda Fiedler, Anne Arundel County Council member for District 5 in attendance, was held February 11. Fiedler, who strives to preserve the character of the community while protecting the environment of her district, was working on an amendment to Bill 2-25.

Fiedler told us that Bill 2-25 allows an area labeled a Critical Corridor to be redeveloped, skipping “both the sketch plan and preliminary plan steps of development.”

The councilmember says “she doesn’t have as much concern with this” as there would still be public meetings about the redevelopment and the two steps apply primarily to development on undeveloped tracts of land.

The Pittman administration said the bill was intended for more blighted areas with vacant retail space, Fiedler explains. 

“The bill increases the potential residential units for a multi-family dwelling (apartment type complex) from 15 units per acre to 22 units per acre, if a commercial property is redeveloped,” she says.

It also does away with the requirement to have half the floor area of a redevelopment on a commercially zoned property actually be commercial. 

“This means the redevelopment doesn’t have to have any commercial space at all,” she adds. “It could be redeveloped to all residential.”  

Bill 2-25 also subsidizes development forcing local taxpayers to foot the bill for a 50% reduction of connection fees (water and sewer) for developers, presumably as a spur to development.

“The Pittman administration stated that the bustling retail space in Severna Park is unlikely to be appealing for redevelopment, so it probably won’t take place in the near future,” Fiedler says. 

“My position is that, if the bill was not intended for an area like Severna Park but more blighted areas, then let’s remove the bustling commercial and residential areas from the bill.  We most certainly do not need to have established active and robust communities identified as properties that are ripe for redevelopment.”

“I am working to identify amendment language that would remove the Severna Park area from Bill 2-25,” Fiedler concludes.

Having previously discussed challenges firefighters face in dealing with high-rise buildings with Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company Chief Dave Crawford, we also sought his input.

“The upper floors of some three-story assisted living homes in areas we’re responsible for are a struggle to reach with our current equipment,” Crawford says. “Aerial platform firetrucks are going for $2 million today. When I first priced the firetruck we need, it was going for $731,000. Just a year later, the price has risen to one million dollars.

Crawford, in the midst of organizing EHVFC’s annual Bull & Oyster Roast taking place this Saturday, February 15 (announcement below), hopes for a good turnout for the fundraiser. The volunteer fire department is self-sustaining. Thus, it receives no money from Anne Arundel County taxpayers and must raise funds for operating expenses, equipment and a new firehouse. The chief offers some food for thought. “

“A legislator mentioned to me that 8,000 high income tax bracket homeowners have moved away from Severna Park recently. No one wants to live in a metropolis considering the examples we have of Baltimore, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. So, they move here and are entirely unaware that our services are not supported by taxpayers,” he says.

“We have to raise money. We sent out mailers asking for donations to 27,000 homes. Only 4,400 sent back a donation. We also sent mailers to 200 businesses and only two came back with donations…and some are huge businesses that are fully served by us.”

Crawford feels that, though not unexpected, the prospect of even denser residential development will add to the expense and burden of serving a nighttime population of 25,000 to 27,000 people that swells to a daytime population of 60,000 or 70,000 counting the workforce and students.

While more appropriate for a location within the boundaries of an already existing city, projects like the Annapolis Town Center tend to be a magnet for similar high-rise construction. Multiplex buildings are visible beyond the center in the photo below. Newly completed construction of additional high-rises can be seen nearby on Riva Road.

The Anne Arundel County Council meeting concerning Bill 2-25 is being held on February 18 at Arundel Center at 44 Calvert Street in Annapolis for those who’d like to attend. For those who wish to make their feelings known to the Council, they may submit online testimony or comments by visiting County Council Meeting – February 18 | Anne Arundel County Government (aacounty.org).

Reminder: Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company Bull & Oyster Roast this Saturday

Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company’s annual Bull & Oyster Roast takes place Saturday, February 15 at the firehouse at 161 Ritchie Highway from 5 pm till 10 pm with food, music and fun. The menu is 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 adding to the fun. For tickets which are $50 in advance or $60 at the door see Earleigh Heights VFC (ehvfc.org).

Unity Gardens annual Spring Lecture at St. Phillips Epsicopal Church on February 22

Magothy River Association member Karen Royer tipped us that Unity Gardens has scheduled its annual Spring Lecture for 10 am on February 22 at St. Phillips Episcopal Church, 730 Bestgate Road, Annapolis.

“Unity Gardens is a small nonprofit that gives grants to civic organizations across Anne Arundel County to plant native trees, shrubs and perennials,” Royer says. “These grants help to control stormwater as well as provide habitat for birds, pollinators and wildlife. The Magothy River has benefitted from grants given to schools, churches, libraries, HOA’s, garden clubs and Scout projects in our watershed.”

This year’s lecture, titled “Nature’s Blueprint: Designing for Resiliency with Native Plants” features Ryan Drake, McCausland Natural Areas Manager of Morris Arboretum & Gardens, University of Pennsylvania. The lecture is a good way to learn about native plants and support the ongoing Unity Gardens grants. Tickets are $40. For information or tickets, visit Unity Gardens – Unity Gardens.

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

Occasionally, research for future columns takes Around The Park Again outside of Severna Park along nearby highways and byways. Last Tuesday we met with realtor Theresa Kurtz to get the scoop on residential real estate trends in Anne Arundel County. (I first met Kurtz several years ago at a Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber event while Kurtz was associated with the Severna Park Voice.) She suggested we get together at a restaurant recently opened by her friend Stephanie Fennell in Edgewater called 100 Lots Kitchen + Bar.

• 

• 

Serving local scratch-made food and drinks in an inviting space with a rustic flavor, the new eatery’s unusual name is an added draw for curious diners. When introduced to Fennell, we couldn’t resist asking her what it signifies. We were fascinated when she explained that the name dates back to the very beginnings of the colony of Maryland in 1632.

“My business partner and I are history nerds who were intrigued with the early history of Edgewater,” Fennell said. “Then a port surrounded by the Town of London, the area was more populous than Annapolis. In 1683, in order to grow commerce, promote town formation and assure the colony’s success, the Maryland General Assembly divided existing land holdings into 100 one-acre lots through ‘An Act for Advancing the Trade of Tobacco’. We decided ‘100 Lots’ would be a perfect name for our restaurant.”

The partners’ nod to local history is evident in the eatery’s decor. There are tobacco burden baskets on one wall. On another wall are tobacco harvesting tools and seafood industry equipment like clam rakes. Tobacco was one of the main exports from the Edgewater/Londontown area during the colonial era.

• 

• 

On opposing walls and along the handsome bar, the oyster industry is represented by historic photographs and pieces of equipment displayed on the walls. Vintage oyster cans arranged on a shelf above the bar illustrate that, by the mid-1800’s cannery technology had progressed to a point where canning fresh oysters from local waters was a safe alternative to shipping live oysters without risking spoilage.

Even on a rainy day like Tuesday, the interior is bright with three walls of windows.

The lighter woods of tables arranged in pairs or small groupings in the open spaces nearest the front entrance contrast nicely with the dark woods of the bar opposite them.

An adjoining room combines similar tables with booths along one wall.

Fennell, a single mother, observed that she has opened her “first” restaurant at a time when the economy is questionable. We wondered aloud how she’d had the courage for such an undertaking.

Passionate about serving good food to people, Fennell has had a lot of experience managing other restaurants. Rather than coming from a food background, she has a degree in psychology. However, she paid for college by working in restaurants. Then life happened and she ended up being in the industry for about 25 years. After having run restaurants for others, she decided it was time to run one of her own.

Nevertheless, she admits she had some qualms about taking over ownership of the business previously known as The Broadneck Grill & Cantina, a Mexican restaurant.

“It’s uncharted territory for me as I’ve never owned a business, but everything seemed to line up,” she said. “During the Covid pandemic, I was running a couple of restaurants. Everyone was super nervous but we were able to adapt to the situation so we could be prosperous. I feel that, with 100 Lots, we should always be able to adapt to what’s going on, even in these uncertain times. I’m confident in my ability to do that.”

She believes her background in psychology impacts how she approaches her business, her employees, her clientele and even the menus.

100 Lots’ menus are seasonal and change four times a year. Fennell and staff are “all about supporting local businesses”, sourcing products from local farmers like Tony Hamilton from Pond View Acres in Hughesville as well as from farmer’s markets. Her creative chef, Mike Tolle, whom she brought with her from a former restaurant, is particularly adept at turning her ideas into delicious entrees. Iris Fuentes, her kitchen manager is an expert baker.

Tuesday nights are Oyster Nights at 100 Lots when dishes like “Oysters on Half Shell” and “Oysters Rockefeller” are served. (The eatery works with the Chesapeake Bay’s Oyster Restoration Program by contributing their shells for reef building projects.)

The restaurant will be teaming up with neighbor Edgewater Liquors for 100 Lots Kitchen + Bar’s first event, a Spring Menu and Beer Tasting on March 21 at 6 pm. Given the menu, the knowledgeable gents from Edgewater Liquors have paired different beers with each of the four courses plus a dessert and they’ll be on hand to talk about each. Chef Tolle will be speaking about the spring dishes being showcased while farmer Tony Hamilton will talk about the meats chosen.

Like all foods served year-round, everything on the menu will be made from scratch including the Mozarella that is part of the appetizer. Even the sausages being used will be ground onsite. To view the menu, you can visit 100 Lots Kitchen +Bar at Facebook. We had a preview of all four courses and were fascinated to hear that the fourth course of Short Rib & Bangers served over Mashed Potatoes is being paired with a Sammy Smith Organic Chocolate beer.

Be on the lookout for my column on local real estate trends next week.

Severna Park Community Center Health & Wellness Expo on March 16

On Saturday, March 16 the Severna Park Community Center is hosting a free Health & Wellness Expo in the community center’s gymnasium from 11 am till 2 pm. Forty exhibitors from health and fitness businesses and organizations will be present. There will be swag bags, raffles and giveaways, free blood pressure and hearing screenings and other tests. For information, visit Health & Wellness Expo – Severna Park Community Center (spcommunitycenter.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.