Author: wingsorb@aol.com

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Hearing pure joy in the voices of staffers from the Child Protective Services of Sutton, West Virginia made the trip volunteers Steve and Linda Zahn began six hours earlier totally worth it. They’d just delivered a donation of 500 boxes of winter clothing from Orphan Grain Train.

“West Virginia, here we come,” Linda had thought as she climbed into the passenger seat of the largest truck Orphan Grain Train was able to rent. Behind the wheel, husband Steve put pedal to the metal and they were off.

A large truck was necessary because the one owned by Orphan Grain Train wasn’t big enough to accommodate the 500 boxes of clothes and an additional 250 coats they were transporting.

The Maryland branch of Orphan Grain Train – a Christian volunteer network that ships donated food, clothing, medical and other items to people in need nationally and internationally – is located at 621 East West Boulevard in Millersville. Initially slowed down by the COVID-19 pandemic because they couldn’t come into the warehouse, volunteers quickly switched to making masks, scrub caps and headbands for nurses from their homes.

Soon, the non-profit resumed accepting donations from individuals in the community, consignment stores or shops and major businesses. (Most recently, they received handmade blankets, children’s toys and books through a Passport To Serve outreach program of the Anne Arundel County Chick-fil-A’s.) All donations are quarantined and sanitized in OGT’s warehouse using social distancing protocols.

Realizing that the warehouse now had an ample supply of winter clothing to donate, the Zahns volunteered to head a project to find an in-country recipient – preferably one in an economically deprived area. Following their research and a few phone calls, the couple settled on donating the clothing to the Child Protective Services in Sutton, West Virginia which serves the districts of Braxton County, Lewis County and Upshur County.

Sutton, a town of 940 people, is the Braxton county seat. According to the 2010 census, the county is home to 14,702 people with 22% of the population below the poverty line. The surrounding counties of Lewis and Upshur have similar demographics.

Child Protective Services representative Cathy George said the agency serves children from birth to 18 years of age. Having expressed the agency’s gratitude for being chosen a recipient, George made arrangements to receive the shipment at Braxton County High School.

Crossing from Maryland into West Virginia was encouraging because it meant the Zahns were two-thirds of the way to their destination.

Pulling up next to Braxton High School to unload their cargo, they were met by six staff members from the Child Protective Services of Braxton County. Luckily, the school had donated a room in which to stow the large shipment.

“The staff was thrilled to see us,” Linda reported. “They said nothing like this had ever happened to them.”

They all pitched in at once but there was a tremendous amount to unload. Shuttling it inside and stacking it was yet another matter. One of the best things about the shipment is that the clothing arrived in time for Christmas.

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International projects like the South Sudan effort are an OGT hallmark. However, there is currently considerable need domestically. The Zahns believe the charity should devote more time and resources to communities nearer home, particularly since the cost of shipping donations internationally has risen dramatically to thousands of dollars.

“It would also be good to attract some younger volunteers like those from Annapolis Christian School who help us out while earning service learning points,” Linda Zahn said. For information about the non-profit or to make a donation, visit Orphan Grain Train | Passporttoserve. or call (410) 647-1621.

Garry’s Grill plans a “Polar Bear Plunge” of a different sort

The polar bear was seen warming up in Eddie Conway’s living room for Garry’s Grill and Catering’s “Polar Bear Plunge” benefiting Special Olympics on Saturday, January 30 from 8 am till 4 pm.

The local business community is joining forces to give back for the community support they’ve received. Every hour, a different business will take over the Garry’s Grill Polar Bear Plunge Dunk Tank in a heated tent on the patio beside the restaurant. Conway will be in the tank for Garry’s Grill from 1 to 2 pm.

Some other businesses taking turns in the tank include Rita’s Italian Ice, The Big Bean, Mahon Landscaping, Kevin Gattie Financial, Landmark Roofing, Larry Sells Consulting, the Matt Wyble Real Estate Team, Savvy Consignment, Kaycie Quinones, Severna Park Lanes and Rockwell Fitness. Come out and support your favorites and try out your arm. You get 3 tries for $10 to send someone into the tank while raising money for Special Olympics

You can also click Check out Garry’s Grill’s team fundraising page for Special Olympics Maryland (somd.org) for another way to support Special Olympics.

Boy Scout Troop #192 sponsoring a Clothing Drive at Historic Baldwin Hall

Boy Scout Troop #192 is sponsoring a Clothing Drive to be held at Historic Baldwin Hall on Sunday, January 31 from noon till 3 pm. The scouts are requesting that people bring their donations of clean gently used clothing wrapped in white kitchen -sized trash bags. According to Janice Crowe, president of the Trustees of Historic Badwin Hall, boys and girls from the troop, which is a brand new one, will be on hand to collect the bags. For more information, email janice.a.crowe@comcast.net.

Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber Blood Drive

On Friday, January 29, the Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber will host a blood drive at their offices at 1 Holly Avenue at 10 am. Anne Arundel Medical Center is bringing a mobile unit.  Chamber CEO Liz League said the organization will take a picture of each donor and post and tag their businesses on social media. For information visit Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce | Facebook.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

With just 15 minutes till closing time, the line of vehicles approaching the white tents in front of ACAN, Inc.’s food pantry finally slackened. Wearing their masks, volunteers Theodore Pack, Laura Chrystal, Furman Carr, Melody Pearson and Pat Rogers had carried box after box filled with lean meats, fresh produce, fruits, dairy and other items to the cars. No one would leave hungry and, best of all, they didn’t even have to get out of their cars.

Four Anne Arundel County police cars parked behind the building meant that officers from the Northern District at Brooklyn Park were also on hand to help.

Inside, ACAN’s executive director Margo Arnoux sat at her desk catching up with her never-ending paper work. Looking around the small office, which is cluttered with overflow food pantry supplies there’s no room for elsewhere, she reflected on the enormous changes ACAN experienced during 2020.

Shortly after launching the pantry’s COVID Pandemic Crisis Response last March, ACAN’s beloved director Janet Pack unexpectedly passed away. She’d suffered a massive heart attack. Arnoux, who had been her assistant, couldn’t have been more shocked or devastated.

“I’d been Janet’s right hand and we’d talk at least three times a day about what we were doing and how we could bring all these dreams she had to fruition. They would now be interrupted,” Arnoux said.

“I thought there was no way I could do this job without her. But then I heard her voice in the back of my mind saying ‘Baby girl, save your tears for somebody else. You need to keep feeding those people,’ and I knew we all had to keep going and realize her dreams. Janet had taught me so much that, in retrospect, it’s like she was preparing me to carry on pandemic or not. Ironically, the day after she died, we were offered funding by Arundel Community Development Services, Inc. (ACDS).”

ACAN has been providing healthy food for Anne Arundel County’s most vulnerable residents from their small building at 429 Asbury Drive for many years now. Unfortunately, with locked-down businesses and lost jobs and wages, the number of families the pantry serves has tripled. Because of COVID restrictions, the staff and volunteers abruptly changed the way they did things and geared up fast.

Prior to COVID, ACAN was an indoor self-choice pantry where customers could select the items they wanted to eat. Now, the staff and volunteers innovated a new drive-thru system, expanding into socially distanced tents and tables outside for food distribution. They also shifted to preparing grocery boxes that could safely be handed into customer’s cars.

Thanks to funding from ACDS and The CARES Act, (The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act and Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2020), they were able to ramp up operations to provide food for approximately 2,000 individuals each month.

ACAN differs from some food pantries in that they are partners of The Maryland Food Bank. So, in addition to accepting donations from individuals and local supermarkets or through food drives by community organizations, churches and schools, they get a substantial amount of pantry items directly from The Maryland Food Bank for which they pay a minimal amount to cover handling and packaging.

“Because the food bank receives donations in bulk, they must maintain a staff to break them down into manageable quantities,” Arnoux said. “Frankly, there’s no way we, or other other partner agencies, could handle a donation of 7,000 pounds of chicken.”

ACAN picks up an average of 10,000 pounds of food every week from the Maryland Food Bank in Baltimore and various local grocery stores using two vans. By combining donations from a local Men’s Bible Study Group and a grant from the Maryland Food Bank, they purchased a Ford transit at the end of 2019. Also, CARES funding from ACDS made it possible to repair the charity’s “baby van”, purchased earlier in 2019 with donations from the Good Neighbors Group.

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ACAN has always been very open and welcoming to county residents needing food. All that is required from recipients is that they show a driver’s license proving that they are Anne Arundel County residents. Arnoux pointed out that it’s easier for first-time families hesitant or embarrassed about asking for help because they can just pull up in their cars, they are wearing their masks, and the volunteers are so welcoming.

“No one abuses the system. If you show up here, you need food,” Arnoux said.

When the food pantry was started 17 years ago by members of Asbury Church’s largely African American congregation, canned and dry goods were the primary donations they received and distributed. That changed when Janet Pack became director. She was aware that diabetes and heart disease were all too common in the African American community – in part because of poor nutrition. She was passionate about creating and maintaining a “healthy food pantry” and succeeded in finding ways to provide lean protein, fresh vegetables and fruit. She even taught classes on good nutrition.

Peeking around the door frame, police officer Sgt. Melanie Jamieson politely inquired if the volunteers would like help bringing supplies back in. According to Arnoux, it’s been great having the officers pitch in to help whenever they need it.

“We have a limited number of volunteers who are mostly older and we’d have had real trouble handling the task without their help,” Arnoux said.

Officer Jameison indicated it’s a labor of love for them.

“We do stuff throughout the county but we especially like helping ACAN because they have a lot of stuff going on here. We try to give them as much help as possible,” she said. “We love coming here. The atmosphere is amazing. Everybody is so nice and so gracious and seeing the reactions of the people who come here distraught but leave smiling just warms our hearts.”

The officers brought quite a few supplies before taking off and the dynamic group of volunteers began carrying in the rest. With most everything in, Pat Rogers and Melody Pearson checked open boxes while Theodore Pack disassembled the tents. They feed off each other’s energy and, by now, they have a very smooth and organized routine.

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Space was a big challenge before the pandemic but the pantry has been shifted around so there’s room to store everything in an orderly fashion. Having the tents has actually allowed ACAN to double usable space. Nevertheless, they give away as much as they can each day so they don’t have to find room for it.

With the work finally complete, Arnoux and the volunteers took a few moments to bask in the sun in front of their little building.

ACAN depends on support from the community and its businesses. There are several ways you can donate: by mail at 429 Asbury Drive, Severna Park, Md. 21146, online at AcanSevernaPark.org or text “give” to 443-233-0870.

Good Neighbors Group’s S(o)UPER BOWL FOOD DRIVE

ACAN is one of the groups that will benefit from the Good Neighbors Group’s 2021 S(o)UPER BOWL FOOD DRIVE that begins the Sunday before the Super Bowl and culminates on Super Bowl Sunday. It’s a fun competition between neighborhoods to collect as much food as they can to restock local food pantries at a time when their shelves may be bare. To join in the fun or for information, visit Home – Good Neighbors Group.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN By Sharon Lee Tegler

Severna Park’s newest bricks and mortar business, Peaceful Petals at 554 Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard, could best be described as bustling Wednesday afternoon. A line of women holding bouquets waited at the checkout counter, mothers and children picked out blooms together, and a soldier sought help selecting a bouquet for his wife’s birthday.

The moment new customers passed beneath the Peaceful Petals sign and entered the shop, they realized they were in for a different experience. Instead of buying a florist-designed arrangement, customers were free to choose a bloom here and a bloom there from buckets containing roses, tulips, mums, ranunculus, hydrangeas, lavender and other flowers plus greenery from a “flower bar” along the wall.

The shop’s personable owner Megan Taylor moved among the shoppers. Many were familiar to her as they’ve purchased flowers from her Peaceful Petals vintage flower truck over the past year.

Between refilling flower buckets, Taylor would stop to offer tips or answer questions….sometimes about the vintage 1958 VW Truck turned Peaceful Petals Flower Truck that became such a familiar part of the scenery along B&A Boulevard.

It would seem that “retail” is in Taylor’s blood.

As a child, my parents had a sporting goods store, so I’d say I’ve always had a small business spirit and an interest in having my own store!” Taylor said.

“I worked in retail at J.McLaughlin when I lived in New York City and there was always something special about connecting with the community by having a shop for people to come to. The flower truck was the ‘bud’ of that if you will, and it ‘bloomed’ into something bigger than I had expected.”

The dynamic young entrepreneur credits her flower truck’s success to the fact that many Severna Park residents “love an experience” and they also like to support small businesses. She’s very thankful. That said, she acknowledges the truck’s limited capacity.

“When we sold out, we’d have to close up shop. We’d get messages after we’d leave wherever we were that day from folks who missed out. That, coupled with a finicky 1958 engine and relying on good weather, led me to the store,” she said.

Taylor is delighted she can now be open rain or shine and refill the flower buckets from the shop cooler when they’ve sold out!

Indeed, the flowers available in the Peaceful Petals Flower Bar are superbly fresh because the temperature in the shop is kept slightly cooler than in neighboring businesses – a fact that is much appreciated by customers.

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Spotted happily picking out stems to complete her bouquet, regular customer Brooke Shivers said she loves that the flowers are always fresh and always in-season.

“Visiting here to buy a bouquet, I think, during these times is something that kind of brightens your day”, she said. “I’ve loved visiting the truck on a random Sunday but I’m proud Megan’s here now six days a week.”

Unlike other business owners, Taylor really didn’t have to research the market much before deciding to open a Severn Park bricks and mortar location.

“I had the pleasure of parking across the street from this shop for a year. The community started to get to know my brand so, when I heard that a spot was opening up, I knew I had to jump on it. I’ve gotten really close with the owners of other businesses in this strip and it just felt like the perfect match!,” she said.

She added that opening a business in Severna Park is expensive but really depends on the space and what was in there beforehand. The space Peaceful Petals jumped into (a former antiques store) required a lot of love and work to make it both Taylor’s style and functional. Functionality is critical since processing flowers “the correct way” is important for the life of the stems.

Indeed, great care is taken to keep the stems beautiful. Special netting is even used on flowers like mums to keep them from opening too soon.

The shop officially opened January 5 but is still a work in progress with more design work in the offing.

Taylor feels the Peaceful Petals Flower Truck had big shoes, or “wheels” to fill as a gorgeous and vintage backdrop. She firmly believes the store needs to separate itself from the truck while also being a pretty space to come visit. To that end, artist Mary Alisa Bowen from Annapolis-based Mary Alisa Art will be working this weekend on a mural or two. One will include an image of the by-now well-known truck which will still be seen in the area from time to time.

Carrying locally-sourced customer favorites at affordable prices is a top priority. Peonies and ranunculus are heavy favorites and roses are increasingly popular. Some customers will come in for a single stem or two for a bud vase. Some flowers will keep for up to three weeks, so customers often come in to replace wilted blossoms thereby supplementing and extending the life of their bouquet.

Taylor is “a big party planner” for both adults and kids and can’t wait until the world gets back to normal when it will be possible to have events and parties in the new space. In fact, the idea for her flower truck originated as an outgrowth of the party and event planning she’d done for friends. She’s not planning a grand opening for the shop yet…not until she can make it a big party.

Meantime, Peaceful Petals’ hours are as follows:

Monday – Flower Bar is closed (Grab n Go’s are Available)

Tuesday – Saturday – 9AM- 4PM

(Thursdays- deliveries, one-time and subscriptions)

Sunday : 11AM – 4PM

Follow Peaceful Petals on Facebook at Peaceful Petals Flower Shop & Truck | Facebook, on their website at www.peacefulpetalsflowertruck.com . Or on Instagram: @pcefulpetalsflowershop or@peacefulpetalsflowertruck. Email them at  orders@peacefulpetalsflowertruck.com or call 917-828-1696.

Short Notice for Severn River Lions Benefit Fruit Sale

The pandemic has disrupted the Severn River Lions fruit benefit sale scheduling. The club will have its January Citrus benefit fruit sale offering grapefruit and honeybell oranges, aka, Minneola Tangelos  Saturday, January 16, at Cypress Creek Park, 11 Cypress Creek Road, Severna Park, Md.

You must order by Friday, January 8.  Orders will be by credit card only and picked up Saturday, January 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. without extra charge. Delivery direct to you is $6.95 per box ordered. Please wear a mask for pickup. Bring your email receipt for faster, easier pickup.

Order, at SRLC Fruit, https://shop.floridaindianrivergroves.com/ecommerce/1014813,

For price list or questions email fruitorders@severnriverlions.org or call 410-518-9863.

AROUND THE PARK by Sharon Lee Tegler

Normally a time for celebration, New Year’s Eve has been spent in many different ways over the years.

The first “Ball Drop” in front of the New York Times offices at One Times Square caused great excitement in 1907 as it ushered in 1908. That excitement continues more than a century later though the Times Square festivities will be limited, subdued and partially virtual this year.

The New Year’s Eve following the end of Prohibition in 1933 saw tremendous celebrating in night clubs, hotel ballrooms, restaurants, saloons and at private parties throughout the country where alcohol flowed freely. From the 1940’s through the 70’s Big Band dinner dances and appearances by headline entertainers dominated New Year’s Eves and provided “holiday gigs” for generations of musicians. From 1975 onward, “First Night” celebrations featuring local artists and musicians and concerts with fireworks took place in cities throughout the nation…. including Annapolis.

Though more family oriented in the past decade, this New Year’s Eve’s celebrations will be different yet with fireworks and other events cancelled because of COVID-19. They may be more isolated….or will they?

Chatting with people around the community, we’re finding that New Year’s Eve will still be celebratory….. but in varied ways. Some families may revive family traditions while others will create new ones.

For Atalie Day Payne, seen here with her husband Jared and youngest children at Kinder Farm Park early this year, the celebration will definitely be a family affair.

She’ll make a special meal for Jared, teenage son Ezra, 4-year-old daughter Elise, toddler Jasper, her mother Brenda Justice and possibly others. They’ll likely play games afterwards. Payne is also thinking of bringing back an old family custom.

“I grew up in Cumberland and I remember that our family would join other families in going outside on New Year’s Eve and banging pots and pans as loudly as we could at midnight,” she said. “It was a shock to me to discover, after moving here, that people shot off fireworks instead.”

Though Payne doesn’t make any New Year’s resolutions or predictions, the former columnist is hopeful for 2021. She bucked the trend and started a new business, Atalie Day Photography, in October which took off like a rocket ship thanks to her popular holiday photo sessions. She said she feels very humbled by the good reception her business has gotten when so many others are struggling.

Karen and Bob Royer will spend New Year’s Eve at home Zooming with their grandson in Scotland who just turned one year old. Then they’ll bid 2020 goodbye.

“We’ll be happy to see the dawn of 2021 as we have lots of exciting plans in the works,” Karen said. “Bob and the men in Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church’s REHAB group (REtired HAndypersons and Breakfast Society) are continuing energy-saving projects at the church and working with the Severna Park Community Center on a project to replace the windows in the Historic Holy Grounds building – the building that once housed St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church.” (The church owns the building while the community center manages it.)

“Our gardening group is looking forward to seeing our new native plants and shrubs bloom in the spring to welcome back our pollinators,” she added. “Our grounds at Woods are becoming part of larger pollinator pathways in our community.”

Though always up for an adventure or glamorous event, Petra Ligmond Roche and husband Dan are taking a different approach to New Year’s Eve this year.

“We’re keeping it very low key here,” she said. “Our adult children will be celebrating at our home with us. It will be a fun family evening filled with Disney +, good wine, and cheap champagne!”

Tammi Molavi isn’t preparing any special “good luck for the New Year” foods or hosting a party. Nevertheless, she’ll be busy.

“We’ll be helping our daughter Josee move into a new apartment in Washington, D.C. during the early part of the day,” Molavi said. “Then, we’re planning to stay at home so I’ve ordered a “grazing box” from April’s Table in Olde Severna Park and I’ve also ordered some take-out from Sizzle Shack, a new business with great crab cakes that was started during the pandemic by Shipley’s Choice residents Cliff and Liz Jones. Our son will be working at Park Tavern so we’ll just be here chillin’.”

Molavi added that, like Payne, she’s grateful that j.lolly, the new business she launched this autumn with partner Michelle Hickman to create beautifully themed table settings people can “rent”, has done well…..especially during the holidays. They’re hopeful they’ll be even busier come spring.

Amber Kaltz, who is communications director for St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Church, really likes family traditions.

“As kids, my sister and I rang in many a Happy New Year eating pizza and staying up late watching musicals from my grandma’s VHS collection,” Kaltz said. “Now my family likes to play board games with friends on New Year’s Eve.”

She added that she doesn’t prepare any special good luck foods for the New Year but loves to read about other’s dishes. She’s an avid reader and is pleased to have received a “new haul of books ” over the holidays and looks forward to sharing them with the family.

Amy Badger Laque has a fondness for tradition too, never missing an opportunity to celebrate “back-to-school” day with ice cream or any one of her four kids’ birthdays.

“We, like Atalie, love to celebrate New Year’s Eve by banging on on pots and pans at midnight,” Laque says. “My kids enjoy the license to make a ruckus.”

She’s not sure if the food has any good luck powers but her family typically has shrimp on either New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day along with other appetizers and party foods.

“A family favorite is crab dip, a recipe passed down from my late aunt, Jan Roland, who was well known for creating the fabulous dish,” she said.

The Laque family usually takes a “first day hike”, often in Patapsco Valley State Park. While no one’s resolutions last much past January, Laque does have a serious New Year’s prediction to make,

She’s really missed seeing family and friends and the ability to move about freely but,she’s loved having more time to spend with her children. She predicts that, after the initial effort to make up for lost time with visiting and activity restrictions, many people will spend more time doing the simple things they once took for granted.

As for me, I delight in celebrating New Year’s Eve. There will be a family dinner with candlelight, wine, special foods and lots of jazz playing in the background this year. There are several special dishes that are said to bring good luck in the New Year and I’ve tried most of them.

A dish called Hoppin’ John is widely served across the south and is believed to have originated in the Carolina’s – possibly as a rice and bean subsistence dish made by slaves. When served on New Year’s Eve, Hoppin’ John is said to bring posterity. It consists of black-eyed peas – to symbolize coins – that are served over rice along with mustard greens or collards to represent greenbacks,

There are hundreds of versions of Hoppin’ John but I found the most basic recipe in a book called “The Welcome Table” by African American author Jessica B. Harris It follows:

• 1 pound black eyed peas (dried)
• 1/2 pound salt pork
• 1 quart water
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1-1/2 cups long-grain rice
• 3 cups hot water

Soak the peas overnight, then drain. Fry the salt pork in a heavy pan to render the fat and, when crisp, add the peas, water, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook forty minutes till the peas are tender and then add rice with 3 cups of hot water and simmer till the rice is tender.

Variations include flavoring with bacon or ham in place of salt pork….. or adding onions, leeks, red or green peppers, chilies, or other aromatic vegetables and/or a dash of hot sauce.

Pork is another good luck food served at New Year’s dinners. The tradition is based on the fact that “the pig roots forward and moves ahead”. There are many variations, from chops to roasts to hams. A particularly easy pork recipe I like to use is featured as a Sharon Lee’s Table recipe: Company coming and pinched for time? Pork’s the answer – sharonleestable.com. Feel free to click and give it a try.

Around The Park Again and www.sharonleestable wish everyone prosperity, a return to normalcy, and a very happy and healthy 2021.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

At holiday time a year ago, the Chesapeake Harmony Chorus was performing live for the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s 2019 Taste & Sip event. Decked out in holiday red and gathered before a lighted Christmas tree with new director Sally Burton at the forefront, they serenaded attendees at the Chartwell Golf and Country Club with a program of carols. They’d performed similar programs during Christmases past at venues throughout Anne Arundel County.

A competitive Sweet Adelines chorus that sings a capella harmony in the barbershop style, the group has been greatly enjoyed at other local holiday events including Severna Park Community Center’s Cookies & Carols gatherings and seasonal programs at Baldwin Hall in Millersville where they are currently based.

But this holiday season has required a very different approach.

Beginning in mid-March, the COVID pandemic prevented chorus members from practicing together and brought about cancellations of all their scheduled performances. However, they are a very resilient group of women. Inspired by their determined and innovative director Burton, they found ways to practice and to prepare their special Christmas performance – albeit a virtual one.

Burton explained how their harmonious holiday arrangement of “Happy Holidays” was recorded and presented as a YouTube video . They’d chosen “Happy Holidays” because it works for a variety of religions.

“To learn how we could do a virtual performance together I’d joined some Facebook groups of choruses and choirs who were already exploring the process,” she said. “I simply applied what I’d learned.

To make a long story short, Burton asked her singers to record themselves singing their parts into a digital device (even a Smartphone), while listening to a learning track from another device through an earpiece. By singing ‘exactly what they were hearing in their earpieces’, everyone was literally performing the song together though their individual recorders picked up only their voice.

The chorus members then emailed the individual recordings to Burton who put all the pieces together using a software package called Adobe Audition.

“I’d matched and combined all the recordings and exported them to the singers as one audio file,” she said. ” Then, with the audio recording playing in their ears, the women used their phones to record themselves singing to it in order to make “cameos” showing each singer.

The fifteen-member chorus’ “Happy Holidays” YouTube video is sung in four-part harmony with seven lead singers to carry the melody including Peggy Coulter, Reggie Cox, Leone Craven, Marge McGugan, Carol Gass, Diane Schwartz, and Lynda Walsh. Two tenors – Eileen Robinson and Sally Burton sang above the melody. Four baritones including Patti Platt, Sue Berger, Marjorie Rawhouser, and Cathy White filled in above and below the melody and two basses – Mary Beth Whisman and Mindy Cassel sang the lowest notes in each chord.

The process was made easier because the chorus had already held a Zoom rehearsal of the number. Since the pandemic, they’ve rehearsed twice monthly by singing remotely from socially distanced cars at two parking garage locations – one at the Glen Burnie Public Parking Garage and the other beneath the former Nordstrom’s at Westfleld Annapolis Mall.

Bringing audiences the gift of music during “Christmases Past” has always been one of the group;s greatest joys. “Christmas Present” required finding a new way to celebrate through song. Hopefully, “Christmas Future” will find the singers back in front of their ever-appreciative audiences. Meantime, you can view the Chesapeake Harmony Chorus’ tuneful YouTube video of “Happy Holidays” by clicking https://youtu.be/j7JKuY2at84 . For information and updated news about the chorus as we head into 2021 visit ChesapeakeHarmony.org .

It’s magical how spiritual music is also being created virtually by the St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Epicopal Church Choir of which Sally Burton is a member. St. Martin’s director of music ministries Dr. HyeSung Hwang puts together virtual performances of hymns using a unique process of her own. The choir’s latest offering is “Hark The Herald Angels Sing”.

Dr. Hwang films herself directing the hymn she chooses complete with audio. She then asks choir members to film selfies of themselves singing to her direction. The singers email her their recordings to be combined into one audio file. The process works beautifully. To hear the hymns, visit St. Martins-In-The-Field Episcopal Church | Facebook

A “Live Nativity” drive-thru style at Woods Church

Shepherds in the field watching their flocks is not something you commonly see in Severna Park – even in the nights before the birth of Christ. Yet, thanks to several wonderful families from the congregation of Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church, the entire Nativity story unfolded for visitors to safely view on December 17 and 18 as they drove by in their cars.

Shepherds Nikki and Kelsey Lawson, who own Annapolis-based Cowgirl Up Pony Parties watched over “part” of their flock aided by their miniature spotted donkey named “Donkey”, their Shetland pony “Mr. Ed”, their brown and white goat “Remy”, their white, tan and black goat Hunter and their largest goat “Pappy”.

While the shepherds minded their animals, three Kings or Wise Men from the Orient (depicted by the Ivey brothers, Nick, Keith and Gavin) were following a very bright star east toward Bethlehem where it was said they would find a newborn king. They carried gifts of gold, frankincense, and myhrr.

They passed a second group of shepherds (Jack, Lin, Mae and Jennifer Hayman) to whom an angel of the Lord had appeared with a heavenly host.

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Traveling on, the Wise Men came upon an Inn where the Innkeepers, depicted by Carol Ann and Vic Marone, informed them “there was no room”.

The Marones, who are very involved with the church’s WoodsWork Habitat for Humanity youth building projects, said the background for the vignette was designed and built by their teenage kids.

Journeying through Bethlehem, the Wise Men found the citizens of Bethlehem (portrayed by members of the Matthews, Smith, Albrecht, Harrison and Mays families) hard at work at various trades including bakers and blacksmiths. As the night was cold, the workers took turns by a fire pit.

Finally, the star the Three Kings were following came to rest over a stable where a baby had been born, wrapped in swaddling clothes by his mother Mary, and laid in a manger. By the time the Wise Men arrived, the baby they named Jesus, was being held by his mother (Jesse Binnix) and surrounded by the Holy family with Erik Binnix as Joseph along with Zack and Morgan Binnix.

A special stop-off was constructed at the end of the Living Nativity Drive-Thru where people left donations to benefit the charity Arundel House of Hope. Volunteers like Dylan Roche, Bob Royer and David Merrill, Woods’ Director of Music and Arts, kept the traffic flowing smoothly thereby guaranteeing success for the two-day event.

Merrill had some news to share and an invitation as well.

“I wanted to let everyone know about the premier of our community-wide, socially- distanced virtual movie “Amahl and the Night Visitors” being shown on the Woods’ YouTube page on Christmas Day,” the director said. “People can view it at 4 pm. ”

According to Merrill, a talented cast of young actors (from the Woods’ congregation) filmed scenes in October and November behind Severn School, in the Ulmstead community, and at Woods Church.  He explained the story behind the production.

“Written in 1951, ‘Amahl’ is a Christmas story about a crippled shepherd boy, prone to telling tall tales. He lives in poverty and obscurity with his weary, bitter mother,” he said. “When the magi stop by their home on a cold winter night, a delightful story unfolds — one that is poignant and profound.”

Merrill and Woods Church hope the community will join the cast on December 25 at 4:00 pm on Youtube Premier, for “Amahl and The Night Visitors”. You may access the Premier link by going to: www.wmpcshows.com.

For more information, visit Events | Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church (woodschurch.org)

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Darkness fell quickly as Santa and the Grinch moved into position in front of the the Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce at 1 Holly Avenue prior to the 5 pm opening of “Trick or Tree” on December 11. Police cars with lights blinking were already stationed by crosswalks with officers ready to assist. A moment later, the lights on the chamber’s traditional Christmas tree clicked on bathing the scene in an warm glow as a snappy version of the holiday song” Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” blared forth from speakers.

Though scaled down in size because of COVID-19 guidelines and darker than usual because there were no spotlights for choirs or dancers, the event was off to a convivial start.

Live performances were not an option this year but deejay Marcus Shaneor filled the void quite nicely with medleys of favored carols. He’d continue spinning discs for the next hour-and-a-half adding a festive note.

Santa Claus turned up accompanied by The Grinch and the two moved into position in front of the lighted Christmas tree.

Families with children soon arrived and Santa was pressed into action.

Among the first youngsters to step to his side were Lucas and Logan Wells who were happy they were “finally getting to see Santa Claus”. Their parents preserved the moment for posterity by snapping photos with their phones.

A few moments later, Lucas and Logan received goody bags.

She and the chamber’s board of directors realized that, because of COVID-19, there was no way they could hold the community tree lighting and open house – a celebration that traditionally features school choirs, local dance groups and a bagpiper as well as cocoa and cookies in the meeting room. Nevertheless, they wanted to do something to mark the holiday season and to light the community tree – a historically significant custom in Severna Park. Thus, they conceived “Trick or Tree” as a substitution.

“We knew we could safely hold an outdoor event with Santa and the Grinch and the tree could still be lit. We could also treat attendees to goody bags,” League said. The children’s could be filled with pre-wrapped sweets while the adults’ bags would contain product samples, coupons and discounts on purchases from area retailers.”

The turnout was light compared to normal years when attendees turn up in droves from Severna Park, Annapolis, Arnold, Crofton, Pasadena, Millersville and even further afield. For safety’s sake, everyone was required to wear masks making it a bit hard to see who was who. Regardless, families loved the celebration.

Katie, Patrick and Sean Kenny drove up from Arnold for a little taste of Christmas spirit – not just for the goody bags given out but for the atmosphere of good cheer.

“This is wonderful,” Katie said. “It’s so nice to come out to ‘anything’. So much has been cancelled. We also came out to show support our local organizations and businesses.

Laura Wiegmann of Laura’s Eyes Photography wandered here, there and everywhere snapping photos for the chamber as a memento of Christmas 2020’s different but fun holiday event.

Arriving from the Baltimore Annapolis Trail on two wheels, bicyclist Glen Duke dismounted and removed his helmet before being greeted by a chamber “elf” and handed a goody bag. He soon struck up conversations with League, who bedazzled in her Santa hat and blinking Christmas light necklace, and a couple others.

Duke remarked that he was almost ready for Christmas having done some holiday shopping along B&A Boulevard in Olde Severna Park at Pedal Pushers. While looking for a tire for a grandchild’s bike, he found the shop had a great inventory of new bicycles. Owner Rod Reddish told him cycling became so popular over the summer that they can’t keep enough bikes in stock.

“I’d just learned that my youngest son, who is 25, was interested in taking up biking so I checked out those bikes which were great,” he said. “I had my son come down the next day and pick one out as his Christmas present. In addition to finding a perfect gift, it feels good to know I shopped local.”

Santa, who is also known as Freeman Bagnall, and the Grinch, also known as Jim League, were having a great time. Between chatting with children, they chatted with a group that included Jim’s wife, who just happens to be Liz League. Jim cleverly fielded a question about his gruesome Grinch costume.

“She makes me wear this around the house,” he joked.

Trick or Tree provided an opportunity for attendees to trade the latest buzz from the neighborhoods.

Topic #1 was the dire news that restaurants were again being restricted solely to carry out meals during the holidays which is always their busiest time of year. Many are in grave distress. During a Service Industry Support Rally held Wednesday, December 16 at Sullivan’s Cove in Park Plaza with many supporters in attendance, news broke that an Anne Arundel County judge blocked County Executive Steuart Pittman’s executive order allowing restaurants to serve indoors until December 28. Apparently, by noon Wednesday, Pittman had already rolled back his order to allow outdoor dining though the weather has turned cold.

Topic #2 was a serious concern that legislators want to increase taxes at a time when most of the community can ill afford it. Apparently, a meeting of the Anne Arundel County Council would be held to discuss the matter.

Talk finally turned to further changes COVID has brought about including the chamber’s Successful Women In Business Holiday Luncheon to have been held at Cafe Bretton. It had to be switched to a Zoom luncheon with specially prepared carryout meals from Cafe Bretton. Regardless, the chamber made it all work and the event promised to be fun.

Many thanks were extended to the chamber and Trick or Tree sponsors Chick-fil-A, Green Home Solutions, Minuteman Press, Steak and Shake, Mathnasium and Delegate Heather Bagnall for hosting the celebration – a really nice gift to the community.

Our churches celebrate Christmas

A “Live Nativity” at Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church

Although Christmas Eve services and other holiday services will be online this year, Woods is inviting the public to attend the 1^st Annual Woods Church Live Drive-Thru Nativity this Friday and Saturday, December 18 and 19 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The event will benefit Arundel House of Hope.

“There will be several stations for people to drive thru,” said church member Kristy Carlgren.  “In accordance with COVID regulations, each station will have family members only to represent different scenes of the day of Christ’s birth.  There will be hundreds of luminaries and a voice recorded story of each different scene.  We are hoping this will add a little “normalcy” and excitement to everyone’s Christmas. Come and enjoy!”

In-person Christmas Eve Services

Trinity Bible Church candlelight service

Pastor Stephen Mitchell reports that Trinity Bible Church at 99 Truckhouse Road is now open for in-person services. The church will hold an in-person candlelight Christmas Eve service on December 24 at 7 pm and will also broadcast the service via Livestream. As a smaller church with a relatively small congregation, it’s possible spread out to every other pew for safe social distancing. For information or to access online services, visit www.trinitysevernapark.org.

Severna Park Baptist and Bay Life Church combine for in-person Christmas Eve Service

Pastor Dave Brown said Severna Park Baptist Church and Bay Life Church will combine to host three in-person Christmas services. The three services are being held to keep the numbers of attendees low for safe social distancing. All the services will be held at Severna Park Baptist Church at 506 Benfield Road. The first will take place on Wednesday, December 23 at 7 pm. The second and third will be held on December 24 at 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm respectively. For information, visit www,spbmd.com or www.baylifechurchmd.com.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses for St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church

St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church at 689 Ritchie Highway has scheduled a mix of masses for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. They are to be held outdoors, in the church and also Livestreamed. For Christmas Eve, an outdoor mass is planned for Larsen Field at 2 pm while there will be church and Livestream masses at 4 pm and 6 pm. A Livestream only mass will take place at 7:30 pm and a midnight mass will be held in the church.

On Christmas Day, there will be 8 am and 10 am masses in the church and Livestreamed as well as an outdoor mass at 12 pm on Larsen Field. For a schedule, visit www.stjohnsp.org.

Candlelight Services at Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church

Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church at 110 Ritchie Highway will hold in-church Candlelight Christmas Eve services at 5 pm and 8 pm and will also stream online. Each service will end with the lighting of candles. For information or to access online services, visit www.spepchurch.org.

Streaming Online Services

Most other churches will be streaming only for Christmas Eve services including St. Martin’s-in-the-Field and Severna Park United Methodist Church.

#ShopLocal

Just a quick reminder to support our local restaurants and businesses during the holiday season and thereafter including our neighborhood bakeries. Both Kirsten’s Cakery in Olde Severna Park and Cakes and Confections Bakery Cafe at 342 Ritchie Highway are still taking orders for Christmas.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Attendees approaching Severna Park Community Center’s Holly Jolly Jubilee on Sunday afternoon found the ribbon-tied Christmas balls a cheerful harbinger of what awaited them in the courtyard beyond.

The first thing their eyes alighted on was Santa Claus being surrounded by Helping Santa Project volunteers Hartley Reindeer, Sharon Acosta, Kate Ryan and Reiley Dyne from Reach Out and Serve. When not taking turns as impromptu elves, they were busy at their booth handing out grab-and-go craft bags…. or attracting attention to their “giving tree”.

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The foursome split their time between their booth where they were joined Dr. Elizabeth Parker, a pediatric endrocrinologist from Parker Place, and her daughter Katherine and the lobby where attendees could pick a tag from their giving tree which contained the name of a child needing a Christmas gift.

Acosta, the founder of Reach Out & Serve, explained that she first knew and mentored Hartley, Kate and Reiley as Girl Scouts and she’s extremely proud that they still love serving their community.

“We’re currently helping find ‘Santas’ for 65 children identified by their schools as needing support.,” Acosta said. “In addition to Severna Park Community Center, which graciously allowed us to place our giving tree in their lobby, we’ve received similar help from Severna Park United Methodist Church and Hartman Law.

She added that Reach Out and Serve teen and adult volunteers have planted food gardens at Germantown Elementary for the past 2 years and serve as monthly Science Buddies for a fifth grade class. 

Santa, who is better known as Freeman Bagnal, enjoyed having Hartley, Reiley and Kate as assistants but he also went off on his own. At one point, he found himself listening to two excited little girls – Victoria Ratliff and Alma Welch – who told him they were best friends who love to dance. Their moms, while snapping photos, revealed that the girls were signed up for a free dance class at 3:30.

“While being at home because of COVID-19, both girls have adored watching and practicing to the free lessons given by SPCC Dance Center director Kellie Greer on Facebook Live,” Agnieszka Ratliff said. “They loved it so much, we called to make an appointment for the free class at 3:30 today. They can’t wait.”

The pair would have to wait a little while but there was plenty to see outside and inside the center. Amy Holbrook noted that there were eight local vendors with handcrafted goods perfect for gift giving.

“We wondered whether to go ahead with the jubilee in place of our annual Cookies and Carols event,” she said. “We didn’t know how many people would turn out or expect a big crowd. But we wanted to give something to the community and remind them we’re still here – something to enjoy safely with well spaced outdoor and indoor activities. We also wanted to help our crafts people. We realized some folks are hesitant to attend events but others – young families and those who’ve recovered from the virus – are longing for normal things to do. We put together a nice mix.”

Indeed, halfway around the courtyard visitors spied the beautifully decorated vintage sleighs crafted by Amy Heath of Hip “Mod” Vintage . Amy’s booths were located next to her daughter Ellie’s display of jackets.

Well-known in the community for the creative items they make from recycled materials and sell at area church bazaars or the Severna Park Farmer’s Market, the mother/daughter duo displayed their full lines of products.

In addition to Amy’s decorated vintage sleighs, she offered vintage wooden tennis rackets and hockey sticks festooned with holiday greenery plus a striking collection of retro jewelry she found and restored to beauty.

The “Buy Vintage” sign on her table is meant to remind shoppers that, by purchasing already existing gems once owned by someone else, they’re preventing the over-mining of our natural resources.

“What I’m doing is literally rescuing jewelry made from precious metals and gemstones like topaz or amber. It’s often very tarnished or in slight disrepair but I bring it back to life. I clean and polish the pieces with an earth-friendly solution like vinegar and water and salt,” Amy said.

Holiday items and jewelry from Hip “Mod” Vintage will be on display at the Severna Park Farmer’s Market holiday market this Saturday (December 12).

One booth over, Ellie Heath, a Severna Park High School senior and a talented clothing designer and entrepreneur, was showing the latest collection of trendy jackets she created for her company Three Blue Bunnies.

The clothing ranged from adorable jackets with trims like rick rack for children from six months up to unique jeans jackets for adults that are, at once, retro and fashion-forward.

“This year I have lots of new things and am showing three racks of clothes instead of two,” she said.

Like her mother, Ellie redesigns and re- purposes donated clothing with vintage fabrics and trims that become one-of-a-kind fashions that set their wearers apart.

Her “wearable art” extends to pencil cases, everything cases, attractive masks and, occasionally to dresses.

Moving from the courtyard into a community center meeting room, visitors found an array of talented vendors selling homemade products perfect for holiday gift giving

A “pink zebra” mascot presided over vendor Patty Chase’s line of Pink Zebra Home soybean wax sprinkles which, when heated in a warmer or made into candles, release their fragrance. Her table also contained lockets by Origami Owl. She said every locket tells a story.

Opposite Chase, Virginia Bard’s handmade Chesapeake Boutique Bags stood out. The unique hand-knit handbags and the scarves below them were made with colorful yarns. Bard’s signature collection of custom-made bags and accessories may be purchased online. They are featured in their entirety at www.chesapeakeboutiquebags.com.

To Bard’s right, the talents of Carol Busch and Shannon Shortridge from Anchored shone through in a variety of handcrafted items including crocheted scarves, hats, and “mug rugs” for your coffee plus satiny headbands, scrunchies and Christmas ornaments.

The crocheted items were crafted by Shortridge while other items were Busch’s creations.

Toward the back of the room, friends and sea glass enthusiasts Beth Miller and Joyce Ramey shared a table. Miller’s Mer Made By Me aquatic-themed jewelry and crafts were gorgeous – especially her sea glass crabs and pendants seen below. Ramey’s JAZ Creations’ sea glass holiday trees and seashell roses were equally spectacular.

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“The sea glass we use to make jewelry and crafts is 99.9% from the Chespeake Bay,” Miller said.

More intricate examples of Miller’s work can be seen at MerMade by Me | Facebook while Ramey can be reached at joycelramey@gmail.com.

Delicate scents drifted over from the table of Louise Chestnut whose Essential Soaps are made using essential oils.

When not making soap from ingredients like mango, shea butters, glycerin and essential oils for fragrance and color, Chestnut is a freelance violinist and teacher at It’s All About Music.

The clock was ticking slowly for little pals Victoria and Alma but 3:30 finally arrived and they scurried to the Dance Center with their mothers for their class with dance teacher Summer Cambascio. On entering the dance studio, the girls were so excited they were like a couple of jumping beans.

Summer first took them through a series of warm-ups and then asked if they would like to learn a “Christmas dance”. The answer was, of course, “yes”.

She first taught them some simple moves and turns and they caught on quickly.

Then she led them through more difficult moves including jumps and marching with feet held high in an exaggerated manner.

…….and, finally, there were Rockets-style kicks. Holiday music was added and, before Victoria and Alma knew it, they had a perfect Christmas dance. Their moms were proud of their budding ballerinas.

Severna Park Farmer’s Market Christmas Mart

The Severna Park Farmer’s Market Christmas Market will be held rain or shine this Saturday, December 20, from 8:00am – 12:00 noon outdoors at the Park & Ride lot on Ritchie Highway and Jones Station Road in Arnold. In addition to Hip “Mod” Vintage and Three Blue Bunnies, market regulars like The Villes Dills, Vera’s Original Bakery, The Breadery, My Nana’s Kitchen, Pat’s Produce and Gourds and eleven more will be on hand. Several will have Christmas wreaths and ornaments. For information visit Severna Park Farmer’s Market | Facebook.

From tabletops with china, crystal and linens to children’s books and toys, the Partner’s In Care Upscale Resale Boutique (at 8151 Ritchie Highway) has gathered its Christmas collections in a most appealing way. Even while adapting to COVID-19 guldelines, the shop’s staff and volunteers have succeeded in making holiday shopping a pleasure for their customers.

By now, Santa probably knows the boutique inside and out. Images of the jolly old elf appear everywhere – on mugs and plates, toys and holiday decorations. There’s a Father Christmas tree topper that’s particularly festive.

Like small retailers across Anne Arundel County, the boutique has pulled out all the stops in hopes of attracting Christmas shoppers. In addition to tables and counters featuring holiday patterned china and glassware, they’re showing items that would make great gifts including designer label handbags and clothing.

Considering necessity the mother of invention, PIC also launched a sparkling new counter featuring the boutique’s well-known collection of upscale, fine jewelry. According to the organization’s executive director Mandy Arnold, It’s the same jewelry normally held back for the organization’s yearly “Fling With Bling Jewelry Extravaganzas” at Chartwell Golf and Country Club.

“Because of the COVID virus, this fall’s jewelry event – our major fundraiser – was cancelled. We came up with this amazing counter display as a way to attract sales and generate some of the income we so depend on,” Arnold said.

She explained that some of the finer pieces of jewelry are outright gifts to Partners In Care while others are donated as part of someone’s estate. Those particular pieces are always separated from donations of costume jewelry and held back. Many are valued by PIC volunteers familiar with the jewelry market.

However, the more valuable pieces are submitted for official appraisal.

Partners In Care is largely a self-sustaining organization so fine jewelry and boutique sales provide most of its operating budget.

A private non-profit, 501(c) (3) , PIC offers programs and services that help older adults remain living in their homes independently. The organization accomplishes that goal through a unique service exchange program where members volunteer their time and talents to help each other with services like transportation, handyman repairs, personal support, and social engagement. In exchange, members can ask for assistance free of charge when they need it.

By clever merchandising and holding special sales each week, the boutique has been doing reasonably well though not back to their normal volume of business. Due to the pandemic, limited grants PIC receives for its programs were cut 75%…. further eroding income. Thus, it’s been necessary to innovate.

“We’ve formed a new partnership with a state-run program called Community For Life that provides some of the same kind of transportation and handyman services we do,” Arnold said. “It’s a ‘fee-for-service’ program available to people unable to volunteer in an exchange program like ours. It helps those people and brings us a small amount of money to supplement our budget for the programs we offer for free.”

Some strategies the boutique is employing to attract more shoppers include Senior Citizens’ Tuesdays when all seniors get a 10% discount on their purchases. There are Wacky Wednesday sales featuring a different item each week – the latest being buy-one, get-one costume jewelry items or buy-one, get-one shoes. On Fridays, there’s a $5 discount off every $20 purchase from art to linens or baskets to whatever.

PIC hasn’t neglected its vets. The organization boasts 300 male and female military veterans from all branches of the services. A program created by Sharon Zentgraf has been established called “Veterans Helping Veterans” which matches veterans with other veterans for companionship and mutual support.

As the organization’s annual Veteran’s Day event was cancelled due to the virus, Zentgraf and volunteers mailed each veteran/member a special card and a coupon for Mission BBQ.

For the latest sales at Partners In Care’s Upscale Retail Boutique, visit https://www.facebook.com/PartnersInCareBoutique. For more information on Partners In Care, visit http://www.partnersincare.org/

SPAN, Inc. takes new approach to Holiday Caring Program

Year after year, SPAN, Inc.’s Jennifer Pumphrey and Ellen Kinsella have personally greeted Holiday Caring Program donors as they arrive prior to Christmas bearing shopping bags, wagons or wheelbarrows full of gifts for families they signed up to help.

This year, because of COVID-19, the organization had to invent a whole new way of doing the Holiday Caring Programs for both Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Pumphrey, SPAN’s Director of Operations, explained.

“This year we made modifications to our program in order to maintain safety for our volunteers, sponsors and clients,” she said. “We requested donations in the form of gift cards to grocery stores, so clients could purchase their own food for their Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, and to Target, Walmart, and Visa, so clients could purchase their own Christmas gifts for their children.  We collected the gift card donations on Sunday November 1st.  We then distributed the gift cards to eligible clients by appointments during the first 2 weeks of November.  We wanted to give them plenty of time to shop for their children before Christmas.”

She added that she and Kinsella had no idea what to expect considering the changes but they were overwhelmed by the generosity of the community. They were able to provide gift cards for all their registered client families with even a few extra.

 SPAN should be back to normal operations next Christmas.  But. for anyone looking to make a donation this holiday season, please consider a financial donation to SPAN which will help keep families in their homes with the utilities on.  

“The need is growing every day,” Pumphrey said. .

To donate, visit https://www.spanhelps.org/.

Earleigh Heights VFC says Santa will ride again!

Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company chief Dave Crawford reports that the COVID pandemic necessitated changes for the 2020 holiday season.

“Unfortunately, we had to cancel this year’s Christmas tree sale,” he said. “But the good news is that Santa will ride again! He’ll be making his usual Santa Runs though all the Severna Park neighborhoods in a sleigh pulled by one of our fire engines for six nights.”

On Saturday, December 5th, Santa will visit 30 neighborhoods throughout the Magothy River watershed. On Sunday, December 6th, he’ll be in neighborhoods off Jumper’s Hole Road.

The following weekend, he’ll spend Saturday, December 12 visiting neighborhoods nearer the Severn River off Benfield Road. On Sunday, December 13, he’ll head for some of Severma Park’s beach communities like Cape Arthur as well as Olde Severna Park and West Severna Park.

On Saturday, December 19, he’ll head out Benfield Road and peel off to either side while visiting communities like Carrolton Manor and Chartridge. He’ll end his 2020 Santa Runs on Sunday, December 20 in Round Bay. For a complete schedule of Santa Runs listing every neighborhood, visit @ehvfcsantaruns on Facebook or the firedhouse website at http://ehvfc.org/.

According to Crawford, one more change was made to Earleigh Heights VFC’s 2020 holiday schedule. On every Friday and Monday for the next three weeks, volunteer firemen will bring Santa, along with a holiday display, to the Walmart at Pasadena from 5 to 8 pm.

Severna Park Community Center’s “Jolly Holiday Jubilee”

Severna Park Community Center invites the public to join them this Sunday, December 6 from 1 to 6 pm for their “Jolly Holiday Jubilee”. A strolling Santa will be on hand for selfies, there will be holiday music, and the Girls Scouts will have crafts for children. There will also be a craft fair with local products like soaps, homemade or vintage jewelry and clothing that would make lovely gifts. There will also be a Christmas giving tree from which to pick a tag to help a family in need. Free mini-dance classes will be available by appointment in the Dance Center and free Fitness Center visits provided you make an appointment beforehand. To do so….or for information, visit https://www.spcommunitycenter.org/ or call 410-647-7851.

Trick or Tree at The Chamber

The Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce will be holding a “Trick or Tree” event this year in front of its offices at 1 Holly Avenue on Friday, December 11 from 5 to 6:30 pm. Unlike previous years’ open houses, the event will be held outside with social distancing. The Chamber’s Christmas tree will be lit and both Santa and The Grinch will be on hand. There will be Kiddie Goodie Bags and Adult Goodie Bags containing coupons for local restaurants and retailers. For information, visit https://www.gspacc.com/.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN By Sharon Lee Tegler

Last weekend was sunny, the temperatures mild, and everywhere you looked at Kinder Farm Park, some sort of activity was taking place. The Visitor’s Center, barns and buildings were closed because of the Coronavirus, but 288 acres of wide open spaces remained open to the public. There were so many things to do and observe.

All across the park’s vast sports fields, improvised games were underway. On one field, players were gathering for an impromptu soccer game. Nearby, two young fellows were doing stretches prior to a run.

On the basketball court, three teens were shooting hoops while a fourth exercised on a set of rings.

As the sun moved lower in the afternoon sky, visitors entering or leaving the farm complex could hear a gentle rustling from various pastures.

In the field nearest Kinder Farm Park’s tractor barn, sheep’s ears perked up as a familiar family showed up and bustled about. It was clear that feeding time was near.

The sheep quickly waded through a field of geese toward a small barn where a Farm Education Program Livestock Group family appeared with buckets of feed.

In a pasture across the way, goats and cows looked westward toward the sound of Roy Fielder’s truck as it approached bearing “dinner”. They crowded the truck as several children helped Fielder unload bales of hay.

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Cows hustled up to one of the pasture fences mooing and looking hopeful. Unfortunately, they’d have a bit longer to wait.

Fielder, who heads the Friends of Kinder Farm Park’s Farm Education Livestock Group, explained to visitors observing them how the animals are cared for.

“At the moment we have 49 families with 300 people caring for 42 animals that include four dairy cows, four beef cows, six Nigerian goats, three full-sized dairy goats, one breeding sow and her piglets, two alpacas and five rabbits,” he said. “We also work with the farm’s organic gardening division on back acreage where we keep seventeen chickens for pest control (they eat bugs) and fertilizer.”

None of the children with Fielder were part of his family. They were Farm Education Program kids who love helping with chores any way they can.

“Where else can kids ride on the back of a truck these days,” he said. “It’s completely safe and so much fun for them.”

He noted that Kinder Farm Park’s 40-member 4H Livestock Club is a separate and completely different program that only involves children whereas the Farm Education Program is comprised of families and requires that parents be actively involved.

Animals that the 4H Club raises go to market.

As of late August, 4H members were raising seven market pigs, two breeding meat goats, three market goats, two dairy goats, 25 chickens and 19 turkeys.

Last weekend, visitors marveled over various breeds of chickens and 17 of 19 turkeys. Visitors – especially children – were fascinated by the turkeys. Four were Toms (males) who strutted among the hens puffing their chests out and fanning their tail feathers. By Monday all the turkeys were gone and on their way to market, They’d end up on some family’s Thanksgiving table – a reality of farm life that’s important for 4H members to learn and experience.

According to Friends of Kinder Farm Park board member Mike Lowman, park attendance has never been higher and there is still plenty to see. It was tremendous fun, for instance, to observe a pair of alpacas as they nibbled grass in the shelter of the farm’s grain silos. They’re relatively new additions to the park and, according to Fielder, it’s hoped draft horses will be joining the other animals in the spring.

Watching the antics of Peppa the Pig’s playful piglets was a definite delight……

……but watching people watch the animals and photograph them was interesting too.

Kinder Farm Park superintendent Brad Hunt said he loves overseeing the acreage. Like Lowman and Fielder, he believes the county-owned property captures the essence of what a “working farm” is all about with its 1940’s era farmhouse, outbuildings, saw mill, blacksmith shop, and vintage tractor collection. But it also offers the recreational facilities, walking trails, and gardens locals long for. He’s happy to see the public enjoying it all.

“We were disappointed the virus forced us to cancel our annual harvest festival this year and we’ve also had to cancel our traditional Jingle Bell Hayrides,” Hunt said. “However, in keeping with the spirit of the holidays, we’re replacing the event with a Jingle Bell Food Drive on December 5 and 6 from noon to 3 pm. Visitors are invited to bring non-perishable food donations to our Visitors Center to fill our Santa Sleigh. All donations will be given to SPAN’s food pantry.”

He added that already purchased hayride tickets will be good through December of 2022.

Meanwhile, there’s lots to do. Buildings and barns are kept closed with the exception of the Comfort Station,but everything else is available.. Some “safe” park programs are now back on the KFP schedule. Park Ranger Jessica Furr is leading programs that include a Heart Smart Nature Hike, a Ride With a Ranger outing, Paint in the Park opportunities and Pollinator Walks. For a Program Guide visit: https://www.aacounty.org/departments/recreation-parks/recreation/program-guide/index.html

For Kinder Farm Park news, visit https://kinderfarmpark.org/.

Christmas is a-coming and some events are still on

Severna Park Community Center’s “Jolly Holiday Jubilee”

Severna Park Community Center invites the public to join them for free on Sunday, December 6 from 1 to 6 pm for an afternoon of fun at their “Jolly Holiday Jubilee”. A strolling Santa will be on hand for selfies, there will be holiday music, and the Girls Scouts will have crafts for children. There will also be a craft fair with local products like soaps or homemade jewelry that would make lovely gifts. There will also be a Christmas giving tree from which to pick a tag to help a family in need. Free mini-dance classes will be available in the Dance Center but you must make an appointment beforehand. There will also be free Fitness Center visits provided you make an appointment beforehand. To do so….or for information, visit https://www.spcommunitycenter.org/ or call 410-647-7851.

Trick or Tree at The Chamber

The Greater Severna Park and Arnold Chamber of Commerce will be holding a “Trick or Tree” event this year in front of its offices at 1 Holly Avenue on Friday, December 11 from 5 to 6:30 pm. Unlike previous years’ open houses, the event will be held outside with social distancing. The Chamber Christmas tree will be lit and both Santa and The Grinch will be on hand. There will be Kiddie Goodie Bags and Adult Goodie Bags containing coupons for local restaurants and retailers. For information, visit https://www.gspacc.com/.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

A bit disappointed that Park Plaza will not be holding it’s annual holiday celebration this year, Park Home owners Heather and Scott Summers went all out with beautiful decorations to make their store as warm and welcoming as possible.

From the moment Tuesday’s mask-wearing shoppers caught sight of the antique sleigh filled with Merry Christmas pillows, the modernistic tree decorated with collectible Christmas balls or the gorgeous grapevine wreaths surrounded by baskets of grape and eucalyptus stems, their spirits were lifted and their imaginations fully engaged.

Owner Sue Gautier was on hand Tuesday to personally greet and chat with customers. She’s pleased that her business is doing well going into the Christmas season.

“We’re hangin’ in there,” she said. “We’re very thankful for our loyal local customers. They’ve supported us all along on our website and now they’re coming by to shop in person. We didn’t even have a website before COVID but its been good for us. To follow current guidelines, we must be careful about how many people can be inside at one time, By having the website, we can still offer online service…especially for those who most need to stay safe.”

Ceramic angels bade welcome to shoppers at Side Street Framers & Gift Gallery along with co-owner Dawn Wilson who was on hand to welcome them personally.

Wilson loved showing off the work of local artisans like pretty sea glass earrings by Cathy Kelly, clever wire jewelry by Jessica Graves, or amazing glass ornaments by Terri Hechler that featured miniaturized images of vintage trucks, seashells or blue crabs. Long involved with Park Plaza Christmas celebrations and with Severna Park’s #ShopLocal efforts, she believes purchasing an item from a local artist or crafter is, in essence, helping a neighbor.

Wilson said Side Street Framers took special pains this year to stock multiple shipments of refillable “lifetime candles”. They’re always popular at holiday time and seem to sell out year after year.

Next door to Side Street Framers, Franklin Toys was pleased to be doing well. Business picked up considerably since the lock-down ended and sales were brisk. They’d even sold out of 2020’s most popular toy – a robotic hand. From holiday ornaments to plush Santas or penguins, crafts and games of all kinds, fanciful dress-up togs for budding princes or princesses, and 1,000-piece puzzles, there is something to please “kids of all ages”.

Leaving Park Plaza by car, shoppers had to go merely a block to enter the Christmas wonderland at Homestead Gardens Severna Park at the corner of Ritchie Highway and Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard. There is so much to do, see and buy that shoppers can easily spend an hour shopping.

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From forests of sparkly trees, red and white poinsettias and deeply green hollies to…..

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……photo ops with reindeer and elves and a very lifelike Santa, there is something for everyone.

According to general manager Heidi Tyler and hardgoods manager Steph Stowell, when Homestead Gardens learned they couldn’t have a live Santa due to virus restrictions, they brought in a dozen elves and a reindeer they posed in front of Santa’s workshop and are inviting customers to use the Christmas village as a backdrop for individual or family photos. They also brought in a lifelike model of the jolly old elf complete with reindeer and Christmas tree – again, the perfect setting for a photo.

Just around the corner, Kirsten’s Cakery was still preparing Thanksgiving orders but was already thinking about the cakes, cookies and pies they’ll be making for the holiday season boom. Among new dessert items Kirsten and her talented staff of bakers recently added are mini-cheesecake tarts with red and white striped toppings that are both delicious and festive enough for the Christmas table.

Neighbor Savvy Consignment was particularly busy Tuesday. In fact, they’d just sold two sofas according to owner Stacey Cassidy. People were shopping for gifts but also for clothing and items to spruce up their homes for the holidays. They were also shopping for gift certificates. A sign in Savvy’s window says it all.

Almost all local retailers are offering gift certificates including Savvy’s neighbors across B&A Boulevard – The Big Bean with its special blends of coffee and Blended Essentials with candle making classes, soaps, scented oils, candles and more.

There are several additional retail shops favored by Severna Park shoppers that are beyond the town’s borders. Though a little out of the way, Whimsicality – an upscale gift shop and destination store for Scout bags and coolers – is located at 1350 Cape St. Claire Road.

Whimsicality owner Tricia Hylind notes that the shop carries Nordic Beach fashions, jewelry, scarves and, for the holiday season, lots of whimsical ornaments, greeting cards, gift bags and even candy.

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Can’t leave out Cakes & Confections at 342 Ritchie Highway. Locals just love Chef Michael Brown’s marvelous holiday yule logs, Christmas cookies and homemade pies. These are just some of the businesses doing their best to spread Christmas cheer. They hope you’ll keep the small business community healthy by #ShoppingLocal.