Category: AROUND THE PARK AGAIN

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

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

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

In the years since founded by executive director Julie Shay to “bring neighbors together”, Good Neighbors Group has undertaken initiatives from food drives and earth day festivals to blood drives to bond Severna Park residents, businesses and organizations together.

It occurred to Shay that GNG has done a great deal to help food pantries and neighborhood charities through its S(o)uper Bowl of Caring drives during these trying economic times. However, it might be time to do something to help the small independent businesses and organizations on which the survival of the community depends. That’s when she came up with the idea of holding GNG “Good Neighborhood Pop-Up Markets”. The second of these was held last Friday, September 8th on the BD Provisions parking lot.

“I felt a pop-up market would be a particularly good way to give newer or lesser-known services or businesses like BD Provisions some exposure and to drive more traffic to this location,” Shay said.

Eight participants took part in Friday’s event at a succession of tents and tables spread across the parking lot. A wide variety of merchandise was offered for savvy shoppers. As seen in the opening photograph, Wendy Presian from Stiches Of Kindness brought along a colorful selection of handsewn products with prices starting at $1. With inflation draining family budgets, the opportunity to buy a gift for a child or a friend for $1 was not to be missed.

• 

• 

The name “Stiches Of Kindness” reflects Presian’s kind nature. She’s dedicated to helping others with the sustainable living/environmentally friendly items she makes.

“I’ve sewn all my life, for over 45 years,” she said. During the pandemic, I began making face masks and donating more than 6,000 to hospitals, nursing homes and fire departments. I was happy to help, but then I realized that there were a lot of people who needed help in other ways. So, I started Stiches of Kindness as a non-profit organization with the idea of sewing items for individuals and other non-profits needing to raise funds,” she said.

Presian added that, among other things, she’ll make items for mastectomy kits, she’ll do pillowcases for kids in the hospital or she’ll knit and crochet hats for homeless folks. A partial list of the organizations she has supported is noted on a signboard she displays.

“The big takeaway here is that I’m just trying to spread kindness one stitch at a time,” she said.

Behind Stitches of Kindness, Sandy Baressi and daughter Hannah had already shopped at BD Provisions, co-host of the pop-up and the only participant with an actual storefront.

The pair was in the process of checking out each booth or table when they stopped at the Good Neighbors Group table with Julie Shay at the helm. Shay was operating a cool spinning wheel game and selling yoga related raffle tickets. Both Sandy and Hannah were fascinated when Shay told them about her organization’s Rogue Gardners’ project to rejuvenate the pond next to Cafe Mezzanotte in hopes of recruiting them.

• 

• 

Beyond the GNG table were shared displays by two animal rescue organizations. Bethany Kerley, Chelsea Harrison and friendly pup Sophie from the Senior Dog Sanctuary in Severn shared a table with Cynthia Manos from Baltimore-based Animal Allies Rescue Foundation (AARF).

Kerley, director of development for the Senior Dog Sanctuary, noted that the goal of her organization is to provide a safe haven for senior dogs who are unable to be cared for by their owners, who are abandoned or abused, or face euthanasia.

Behind, and to the right of Sophie and friends, was an attractive sidewalk display from Park Home where owner and designer Brittany Meade assembled a collection of the coastal-inspired cushions and accessories the shop is known for. Meade has hosted GNG’s first smaller pop-up market at Park Home.

Among other retailers we’ve spoken to recently, Meade said Severna Park merchants have been somewhat protected from the effects inflation is having on the market but she has made some changes.

“I have noticed that people’s buying habits have changed a bit. They are more mindful of how much they’re spending and of making some of the purchases they’ve gone for traditionally. So we’re offering things that we think are at a good price point. In fact, we’re offering products tailored to customers looking for a wider variety of price points.”

Across the parking lot, designer Rose M. Walker’s Bohemian Black line of fashions beckoned. Walker, who also heads her company’s House of Design Events and Walking Roses Styling brands, brought multiple racks of late-summer dresses in shades ranging from peach and pale lavenders to something a little brighter.

Walker, accompanied by her husband Hubert, a Washington, D.C. firefighter, enjoyed chatting with shoppers about the fashions and also telling them about the Bohemian Black Festival taking place this weekend, September 16 and 17, at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company. The two-day festival will feature live music, food, fun and fashion (Walker will launch Bohemian Black’s fall line and children’s line at the event with two distinctly different fashion shows each day). A percentage of proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Life of Joy Foundation which focuses on mental health and suicide prevention.

Walker also updated us on the opening of a new retail space to showcase all three of her brands.

“Anne Arundel County just released our permit so we have about 60 to 90 days before we open. We’ll be located in the old Listman building on Earleigh Heights Road in Severna Park which is currently being remodeled. We’ll be on the top floor.

For ticket options for one or both days of the festival, visit Festival Tickets | The Bohemian Black F (thebohemianblackfestival.com).

Recrossing the parking lot, we encountered BD Provisions co-owner Debra Saltz visiting the tent of Marni Globerman’s Globie’s Goodies.

Globerman said she handcrafted each of the glittering objects (some of which were personalized) displayed as well as all manner of clever and amusing signs. For the time being she markets her products primarily at craft shows.

We also visited the Neighborhood Sun Community Solar Tent where representative Natalia was offering shoppers a free share in a solar farm with the idea of saving one’s own energy costs.

Last but not least, shoppers made a beeline for BD Provisions. Those who hadn’t visited before were astonished by the sight of 200 plus barrels of organic food products plus oils, vinegars, spices, teas and coffees. The store is known for its fine selection of coffee beans and its regularly-scheduled coffee roastings.

Needless to say, it took shoppers some time to take everything in. You can check out BD Provisions at Severna Park Store — BD Provisions- zero waste bulk food store or follow them on Facebook.

Woods Church announces Savvy Seniors program

Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church is offering a Savvy Seniors program for the Severna Park Community. The first program, on Tuesday, September 19th from 1 pm to 2:30, will feature “Packing the Past, Unpacking the Future,” a program dealing with the complex issue of downsizing.  Speakers will include Rev Nancy Lincoln Reynolds and Elder Peggy Newman, an expert in art, antiques and downsizing.

Savvy Seniors will meet every third Tuesday of the month until May.  Come for refreshments, conversation and speakers knowledgeable about aging, health and wellness, insights for aging, meaningful movement and more. Contact the church office for more information:  410-647-2550.

Historic Baldwin Hall Crab Feast to be held September 24th

A quick reminder that Historic Baldwin Hall is holding its annual Crab Feast on September 24th. Tickets are available from Janice Crowe at 410-647-5370 or Janice.A.Crowe@gmail.com.

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 Tai Chi and Kung Fu

and Lean On Dee Senior Home Care Services

The spinning wheels were spinning neath a shady tent at the Severna Park Farmer’s Market Saturday morning as the Chesapeake Fiber Crafters worked their magic turning wool into yarn.

Relaxed, casual, and happy to chat with farmer’s market patrons, the crafters reminded shoppers of folks from a bygone era – a time when neighbors gathered in sewing circles, quilting bees or other shared endeavors that were mutually beneficial and social in nature.

For Chesapeake Fiber Crafters, the modern equivalent is a spinner/knitter collaboration that’s both fun and profitable. Everything the group creates, from hand-dyed yarns to hand-woven garments, is made to be sold at their booth. Lisa, for example, was knitting headbands, Laurie was sewing handbags, Laurie’s mother was producing yarn for shawls and Frank was spinning wool for socks.

As with similar open-air operations, the Severna Park Farmer’s Market takes place early in the day – from 8 am till noon – when produce is at its freshest. Located at the intersection of Ritchie Highway and Jones Station Road, the market’s colorful tents overflowing with fruits and vegetables and other products are an enticing sight. In addition to passing motorists, hundreds of regular customers are drawn to the market every Saturday.

The mix of vendors includes regulars who are there each and every Saturday, semi-regulars who appear every other weekend, and a few participants that appear for a limited period of time.

Entering the north end of the farmer’s market, we found Floridian Jack Price and his family comfortably seated on some great looking Adirondack chairs made by Custom Cypress Outdoor Furniture. We were surprised to learn from Price that he’ll only be at the market three more Saturdays.

“We now live in Florida which we love but we’re originally from Severna Park and come back for a month to visit our family and friends,” Price said. “Participating in the farmers market that we’re so familiar with is a wonderful way to reconnect with people we know while exposing our products.”

One tent over, Melody and Bob’s Herbs & Medicinals tent attracted the attention of many curious shoppers wanting to learn what “medicinals” were.

Though Arnold residents, the couple has an herb farm in Pasadena. Their farm has never seen chemicals since the 1990’s when they purchased the land and the soil is very pure. Herbs are grown there naturally, “fertilizing only with worms”. According to Melody, they grow dozens of culinary herbs like parsley, rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano and basil and a lesser number of medicinally beneficial herbs like elderberry, plantain, tansy, aloe vera and Achillea.

“Plantain, for example, is a wonderful plant grown all over the world.” Melody said. “The leaves are good for removing splinters or healing wounds and the seeds, known as psyllium, are good for digestion.”

Located next to the herbalists was regular vendor David Haberkorn’s popular Morris Hill Farm tent. Haberkorn’s pasture raised meats, poultry and eggs are so much in demand there is almost always a line of customers waiting to be served.

Parallel to the Morris Hill Farm tent, regular vendor Pat Hochmuth of Pat’s Produce and Gourds brought an abundance of produce from his farm in Delmar, Maryland on the Eastern Shore and was doing his usual blockbuster business.

Hochsmuth has been a fixture at the market from its beginnings. Though sold out of several vegetables by 11 am and down to his last eggplant, the enterprising farmer still had plenty of tomatoes, potatoes and squash to sell along with sweet-as-honey pears, cantaloupes and melons.

New to the Severna Park Farmer’s Market this year (but not to markets in Waverly and Catonsville) the Baltimore Waffle Company’s Craig Grabowski was serving some of the delicious Belgian Liege waffles the 11-year-old business is known for.

“We’re glad to be here,” Grabowski said.

Another newbie, The Spoiled Dog Bakery carried all manner of Dog Treats bound to be a hit with shoppers’ canine companions. The array of gourmet treats for pups created by owner Dianell Ashe looked good enough for humans to eat. They included such goodies as Blueberry Bacon or Peanut Butter dog biscuits and Turkey Pumpkin Jerky.

• 

• 

Moving on, Green View Hydroponics was new this year as well and selling hydroponically-raised greens like lettuces, kale, and even strawberry plants.

Business is always brisk at the farmer’s market and time seems to rush by for regular vendors like St. Margarets-based Windon Distillery’s Lyon Rum.

Distillery representative Willoughby Buxton chatted with customers about a variety of Lyon rums as well as some drink recipes that are perfect for late summer or early fall entertaining.

Veteran vendor The Breadery, which is based in Catonsville, moved numerous loaves of their old-fashioned whole grain and artisan breads leaving open spaces on the tables.

Nearby, with at least an hour to go, another veteran vendor Vera’s Original Bakery was down to its last few pastries while Severna Park Farmer’s Market veteran Joyce Martinek of Joyce’s Flowers and Herbs had just a single flower left to sell.

• 

• 

A longtime favorite vendor at the market, The Zahradka Farm does an amazing trade every single Saturday during the spring, summer and autumn seasons and also at the annual Christmas market. The Essex, Maryland based family farm brings a bounty of fruits, vegetables, fresh eggs, and meats ranging from ground beef, and sausages to steaks and roasts. Their produce is so popular, they sometimes sell out of some veggies leaving gaps along the tables.

Saturday’s market had so many regular and occasional vendors represented that we couldn’t get to them all and missed checking out candles from Evie & Park and all those homemade jams and jellies from Nana’s Kitchen. Obviously, we’ll be coming back to explore the others. To check out which vendors will be turning out any given weekend, visit Facebook.

Farmstand hours change following Labor Day

Normally, the last day of the season for Marco Ridge Farm’s farmstand, at 3208 Davidsonville Road, is Labor Day. However, this year they have extended being open a bit longer.

Now in their final week of the 2023 season, the farmstand will be open from 10 am to 5 pm through Sunday, September 10th – their final day. We’re told that the Marco Ridge Farm’s late produce cart will be available through most of the fall on a pay-in-cash honor system.

We learned that there also are new hours for Chase’s Produce farmstand which is also located on Davidsonville Road. They’ll be open Fridays 12-7, and Saturdays and Sundays 10-5. Owners Bob and Marge Chase said they’re hoping to remain open on weekends through mid to late September. To see their schedule, visit Facebook.

Good Neighborhood Pop-Up Market at BD Provisions

This Friday, September 8th, from 3 to 6 pm, the Good Neighbors Group is hosting a (Good) Neighborhood Pop-Up Market at BD Provisions at 844 Ritchie Highway. The event provides a great opportunity to SHOP LOCAL and SHOP SUSTAINABLY for food, locally made items, clothing, home decor and other products from eight local businesses. They include Noonday Collection, Park Home, Neighborhood Sun – Community Solar, Stitches of Kindness, Bohemian Black, Senior Dog Sanctuary, AARF Animal Rescue and Sanctuary and Globie’s Goodies. For more information, visit Home – Good Neighbors Group.

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

There’s a lot to do between now and Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church’s annual Kick-Off Sunday Picnic on Sunday, September 10 – an issue made clearer as committee chair Karen Lerario surveyed the grounds between the church and Boone Station Hall where the event will be held.

Pointing to the Boone Station Hall portico, which is often used as a stage for outdoor events, Lerario said the makeshift proscenium will provide a perfect setting for the performance of gospel music by “Chozen” from Wayman Good Hope AME Church. The popular group has performed from the portico before and enjoys being able to look out over the audience.

• 

• 

Upon examining the picnic tables that will be spread across the lawn, she decided they are in good condition but she’d look for some plastic tablecloths to dress them up a bit.

• 

Lerario noted that the theme for this year’s picnic – “Come Home to Woods…A Place to Belong! – was conceived as a way to celebrate the beginning of a new year of programs and to highlight some of the church ministries.

As in past years, the church’s front lawn opposite the hall will showcase, among others, the Welcome Ministry, the Prayer Shawl Ministry with its dedicated knitters, and the Noah’s Ark Ministry (which hosts Woods’ annual “Blessing of the Animals” service).

• 

• 

Games for children, including the ever-popular Bounce House, will be located further down the lawn opposite the picnic area. For the first time, a Sunday Sundae Bar conceived and operated by the church’s Youth Ministry will be located in the same area.

Lerario said the Kick-Off picnic committee is very enthusiastic this year and has come up with a first ever toy swap and other new ideas. They’re also focused on letting community residents know they are welcome to attend the free event even if they are not members of the church. To that end, the committee will put out banners on B&A Boulevard and elsewhere highlighting the event.

“We want to let everyone know that our Woods Kick-Off picnic is Sunday, September 10 from 12 noon till 2 pm,” Lerario said. “We hope community residents will come out and learn more about each of our missions and ministries. The event includes food and games for the young and young at heart, a photo booth, a boxed lunch, Kona Ice snow cones, the Bounce House, a scavenger hunt, live music from Chozen, and more.”

Should bad weather take place, the event can easily be moved inside as happened last year. For directions or information, visit Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church (woodschurch.org).

Aliens out of this world and inflation’s getting there

Known for his good sense of humor, Goska’s Liquors owner Kevin Sosnoski was amused and delighted to have his own alien encounter thanks to the advertising display that came with one of the products he stocks. Congressional hearings on unidentified flying objects have been much the news of late and fully captured the public’s imagination.

On a more serious note, as owner of one of the oldest and more centrally located family businesses in Severna Park (Goska’s opened in 1930), Sosnoski was the perfect person to ask about the effect inflation is having on the community’s small businesses and retailers.

According to an article in “The Guardian”, inflation in the US is at a 40 year high – an astounding 9.1% year-over-year, according to a recent government report. We felt Sosnoski would have a sense on its effect locally.

“Oh my. Inflation has to be affecting everybody, not only shopping in my store but in everybody’s,” he said. “People only have so much income and it’s not stretching so far. They have to make wise decisions.”

Sosnoski added that he keeps a careful check on the store’s inventory and manages to hold the line on the cost of some items but must make up the difference on others by pricing them higher. The inflated prices have meant he’s had to buy a little bit more responsibly.”

“Consumers are starting to see less variety because retailers are forced to put their money into more of the blue chips,” he explained. “Instead of having 20 Chardonnays to offer, the retailer might only have 15. The lack of choice is making a difference in people’s spending habits.”

Sosnoski feels that both residents and merchants are fortunate to live in Severna Park, Pasadena or surrounding areas where they are insulated by the fact that quite a few people work for the government or government contractors. Luckily, he’s seen only a few local businesses close.

“I have seen some of the big box retailers and malls experience setbacks, however, due to online shopping or supply chain issues,” he said. “Some of those have been forced to close. The bigger chain stores appear to be affected too. That’s why I feel it’s more important to shop locally within the community than ever.”

It would seem Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce CEO Liz League agrees with Sosnoski on that point.

Out and about daily, League is a person who keeps her finger on the pulse of the business community.

“It’s funny that you’ve asked today about the effects of inflation,” League said. “There’s sort of a feeling in the air of gloom and doom. From what I’m hearing, loan officers and realtors are floundering a bit. Retailers are noticing that customers are cutting back on what they’re willing to spend. I also learned that one local retailer was forced to close because her location’s rent was going up and her suppliers’ costs had elevated. She said the necessity to raise the prices of her products meant customers were no longer buying.”

League added that she attended one of the chamber’s Successful Women In Business meetings Wednesday morning and the consensus among attendees was that the “the market is terrible”.

Since the chamber is preparing for several events including the Driving Force for Business Annual Golf Tournament on September 25 and “Shoptoberfest”on October 21, League has spoken to the owners of several restaurants including Ledo’s Pizza and Firehouse Subs.

“I found out that, in addition to rising food costs affecting their bottom line, the restaurants are still suffering from labor shortages,” she said. “They tell me they’ll advertise a position and hire someone to fill it… only to have the new employee quit after a few days.”

Orphan Grain Train the recipient of generous contributions

Bruce Coonradt, branch manager of Orphan Grain Train Maryland, recently accepted a check in the amount of $1500.00 from John Newell, president of the Vintage Tin Car Club of Maryland. The generous contribution by members of the club will support OGT’s humanitarian aid to countries around the world.

The organization recently received another donation of medical equipment and supplies from Luminous Health Anne Arundel Medical Center. The donation included gurneys as well as thousands of catheters. Recent donations from area hospitals have primarily been sent to Ukraine. For more information or to make a donation, visit Maryland | Orphan Grain Train | Sharing resources and bringing Christ’s name and character to needy people both far and near. (ogt.org) .

Autumn classes for Jing Ying Institute students

On Tuesday, September 5th, Jing Ying Institute in Arnold is offering a free trial kung fu class at 11:30 am. Open to homeschool students or anyone who wishes to attend a daytime family class, the session is part of a seven-week martial arts program focused on improving a student’s attention, focus, flexibility, strength, coordination, confidence and self-control while learning kung fu and having fun.

Participants should arrive 10 minutes early to check in and wear clothing suitable for movement, such as athletic pants and a t-shirt. For more information about the program or to register visit Homeschool Kung Fu at Jing Ying or call 410-431-5200.

On Wednesday, September 6 at 10:30am, Jing Ying Institute will begin a new session of Tai Chi classes at the Severna Park Community Center. Tai Chi helps with balance, arthritis pain, bone density, blood pressure, blood sugar, flexibility, strength, weight loss and more. The class is taught by Jing Ying Institute owner Billy Greer. Register for the session by visiting Tai Chi at Severna Park Community Center (jingying.org) or call 410-431-5200.

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

It’s not often that customers visiting Black Market Bakers in Edgewater spot a pair of puppets while enroute to the counter for some pastries or a cup of coffee. However, Assistance League of the Chesapeake president Cindy Whittle and member Teresa Hales Tudor had puppets Melanie and Ginger with them following an appearance nearby. With the fall term about to start, the puppets will be visiting Anne Arundel County Public School classrooms as the stars of ALC’s popular Kids On The Block program which helps students understand what bullying is and how to stop it.

Last Thursday, however, the puppets were helping Whittle and Tudor draw attention to their organization’s signature program, Operation School Bell for which ALC is seeking volunteers and donations.

Whittle explained that Operation School Bell is the umbrella program for the organization’s school assistance initiatives.

“Our primary program is Kids in Need which supplies new school uniforms to children in six Title 1 elementary schools and one middle school,” she said. “The schools include Georgetown East, Germantown, Meade Heights, Mills Parole, Tyler Heights and Van Bokkelen elementary schools and MacArthur Middle School. Each child receives pants, polo shirt, sweatshirt, socks and underwear. We do it twice a year – in the fall and then in January when we also include hats and mittens for them.”

As of last spring, the Assistance League had provided over 27,000 new uniforms to Anne Arundel County students giving them a good start for academic success. The program also relieves some of the stress struggling families are experiencing.

Every year ALC provides three brand new uniforms to more than 3,000 kids in those Title 1 schools. And every year volunteers from the 80-member organization spend countless hours going to the schools to measure the students for the clothing.

• 

• 

Once packaged, the uniforms look great and are a joy for the children to receive.

Tudor revealed why Operation School Bell is so important and why the Assistance League continues its drive for donations year after year.

“We want children from families in need to have the same feeling we all had when we started school each fall with new school clothing,” she said. “We want to allow them the excitement of having a new school uniform – to look just like everyone else coming in. We want to give them the tools and clothes to feel accepted and be successful.”

She added that some of the kids being measured have a sense of wonderment in their eyes that they are getting something new to wear that is just for them. They wish they could take the clothes with them and are disappointed when told that it will be about two weeks until they receive them.

AACPS school counselors recommend which children should receive uniforms. Schools in the most poverty-stricken districts tend to involve more students.

Operation School Bell is just one of the programs that has ALC’s members shifting into high gear this fall. Though the Assistance League of the Chesapeake began as a guild in Annapolis in 2001, it became a chapter of the nationwide Assistance League organization in 2006 and subsequently attracted members from throughout the county. Members come from all walks of life and generally take an active role in more than one initiative.

One of the most important initiatives now that school is starting is Project Literacy.

“Our volunteers staff a monthly Guest Reader program and, at some of the schools, we do one-to-one tutoring for kids who are struggling readers,’ said Whittle. “The teachers or counselors will match us with a child who needs a little extra help and we work with the same child week after week.”

She added that ALC also provides summer reading materials – a brand new book for each child.

A number of volunteers make sure the summer reading books find their own special student.

“These books are for students that don’t have any books or a reading library at home. We want them to have new books of their very own to keep, build on and develop a love of reading,” Tudor said.

Both women emphasized that there are so many other programs for volunteers to participate in. To name a few, there are Sing-Alongs for Seniors wherein Assistance League members provide music, song sheets, encouragement and companionship for senior citizens in assisted living residences. Closely allied with the sing-alongs is the Smiles for Seniors Greeting Cards effort to provide personally signed cards for assisted living residents who need cheering up, especially during holidays.

There is also the popular Stork’s Nest Baby Shower initiative. Using a list provided by Baltimore Washington Medical Center, ALC members purchase baby gifts for expectant mothers enrolled the hospital’s Nature and Nurture prenatal care program. The gifts will be brought to an Assistance League baby shower being held at the Bistro at Heritage Harbor.

Tudor stressed the fact that the work of the Assistance League of the Chesapeake is not well known but is very important. They would love to attract some new members. Anyone over 18 can join. The group meets once a month except during the summer. Meetings are designed to update members on ways they can volunteer to help county families. The Assistance League also has an online appeal to give community members the opportunity to donate money to purchase one or more uniforms for a child. A donation of $65 covers the cost of pants, polo shirt, sweatshirt, and three pairs of underwear and socks.

For more information or to make a donation, visit Home – Assistance League of the ChesapeakeAssistance League of the Chesapeake.

Walk the Walk Foundation backpacks already being delivered to schools

According to Walk the Walk Foundation’s Nicole Dolan, the organization’s annual Backpack for Kids donation drive was quite successful this year increasing the number of backpacks donated by 500 for a total of 1,500 distributed to 30 different schools.

“We partner with the Department of Social Services and a few other partners to figure out where the need is.” Dolan said. “Then, using financial donations from our supporters, we purchase backpack items in bulk at a discount. We next bring the items to a specific location, like a church, where supporters can make a donation and pack a backpack for a child.”

• 

• 

In filling the backpacks, WTWF follows guidelines on the standard list of school supplies provided by Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Not every backpack is exactly the same but there are generally 24 items – things like composition notebooks, crayons, pens, dry erase markers, dry erase sleeves, water bottles, Ziplock bags, and more.

Next on the agenda for Walk the Walk Foundation is the 2023 Bay Bridge Walk on November 12. WTWF is now a Bay Bridge charity partner and has the ability to fund raise. For information on any of the Walk the Walk Foundation programs or events visit Nonprofit Organization | Walk the Walk Foundation | Annapolis MD (wtwf.org).

Our visit to Pumphrey’s Farm Stand was as fun as ever

In our efforts to support our local farmers, we visited a longtime favorite summer destination – the Pumphrey’s Farm produce stand at 8220 Veterans Highway in Millersville.

As always, we found amiable proprietor Nat Pumphrey keeping cool in a shady spot with his companionable black and white cat. Reminiscing with a longtime customer, Pumphrey pointed to a blackboard in the corner which celebrates the fact that the farm has been selling produce for 62 years.

The selection of vegetables “fresh daily from the fields of downtown Millersville” as Nat Pumphrey puts it exceeds expectations.

Laid out “serve yourself” style, there are rows and rows of bright red tomatoes plus less ripe ones for making fried green tomatoes. There are crates of green, red and yellow Bell peppers, baskets of pattypan squash, yellow squash and sweet corn. In addition, Pumphrey’s sells an astonishing array of hot peppers including Jalapenos, Habaneros, super-hot Ghost Habaneros, Thai peppers and round red cherry peppers.

Peaches and plums and nectarines share a table with potatoes and runner beans along with a few crates on the floor in front of the antiques.

• 

• 

Behind a full complement of Canary melons and cantaloupes is a Welcome To Our Farm sign, a vintage John Deere Dr. sign, and a collection of vintage toy trucks. One could easily say that Pumphrey’s Farm stand not only has fresh from the field produce but also has quite a bit of character. For hours and information, visit Pumphrey’s Farm | 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.

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 Service

Things are rarely quiet at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company as the ears of all first responders on duty are attuned to the speaker system heard throughout the firehouse. In spite of the consistent spate of emergency calls coming through the speakers, the atmosphere was calm in Fire Chief Dave Crawford’s office.

The chief was bringing us up to date on the status of EHVFC’s plans to build a new fire house. The company held public meetings in 2018 to explain that the 66-year-old facility was failing, and that they were exploring rebuilding it. Unfortunately, that couldn’t happen because of a set-back rule requiring the firehouse to be 65 feet from the highway which it’s not. It’s closer. Engineers told the fire company it couldn’t be modified or moved. Therefore, plans were drawn up to build a new firehouse 600 feet east on the station’s 9.5-acre tract of land.

“As of now, it’s been five years since we came up with a design and began the process,” Crawford said. “We wanted to offer the land that would become available when the new firehouse was completed and the current one demolished for pad sites that could be leased to bring in funding. However, to do that, we were required to apply to the Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning to have our zoning changed from residential to commercial. In doing so, we faced five years of denials from them. Finally, the Anne Arundel County Council suggested an amendment which passed 7 to 0 and our commercial zoning was granted in March. Now, we can at least get started”.

He went on to explain that the fire company has been told by the county that it will take another 360 days to get a building permit. As EHVFC has navigated these delays, construction costs for the new building have risen dramatically due to inflation.

“The cost for the station has gone from $9 million when we started to $16 million and the cost for the adjoining hall has risen from $2.5 million to $8 million,” Crawford said. “We’ve come to see that there’s no way we can raise that amount of money from our conventional fund-raising efforts like our carnivals, bull roasts, Bingo, and banquet hall rentals.”

He added that the company has applied for grants and would love to have one but, with so many other organizations applying, it’s been like buying a ticket for the lottery. So far they’ve had no results.

As happens every year, EHVFC sent out 18,000 mailers asking for donations but only got about 4,000 back with a contribution. This is the first year they’ve ever mailed them out to businesses.

“The results were very disappointing,” Crawford said. “We sent the mailers to 1,800 businesses and got only $2,200, primarily from small businesses. The big businesses didn’t support us at all. Most were part of larger corporations with a regional or national reach and they all said ‘No Way’. Regardless, we take care of them. “

The Chief estimated that the fire company serves a nighttime population of 25,000 to 27,000 people but, in the daytime it’s up to 60,000 or 70,000 counting the workforce and student population.

“We also take care of all the assisted living facilities which give us no money,” he added. “We make numerous runs each day to all of them putting considerable stress on the equipment and apparatus that we own.”

Suddenly, in the midst of Crawford’s update, an alarm sounded over the speakers followed by a call for response for an “unconscious baby, first degree alert”.

In the blink of an eye, Engine 121 responded to the call with siren roaring and lights flashing. The firetruck barely cleared the door as we snapped the photo seen above but was quickly followed by Medic Unit 12.

Built in 1957 when the company’s fire trucks and ambulance were smaller, the aging firehouse has low ceilings. Today with two fire trucks, a rescue squad truck, an ambulance, and a paramedic unit – roughly 93 tons of fire, rescue and emergency equipment – space is tight. Even with Engine 121 and the paramedic truck out on a call, quarters were tight for the remaining equipment.

• 

• 

EHVFC’s most recently purchased piece of equipment, a Special Response Unit that specializes in water and offroad emergencies – particularly in inclement weather – has to be parked outside. Though owned by the fire company, it is used statewide and nationally if need be.

After six decades of heavy use, the fire station shows significant signs of deterioration with cracks visible on both interior and exterior walls.

Second floor amenities for on-duty firefighters are outdated and in disrepair. With an open locker room, open bunkroom and single shower room for both sexes there’s little privacy. The wood paneled kitchen, break room and meeting room are timeworn and heating and air conditioning are spotty.

For 100 plus years, Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company has kept our neighborhoods safe as an independent, self-reliant department. Its grounds and firehall have also served as primary gathering places for community events.

Organized April 18, 1918 by 14 members living on Truckhouse Road, the company had no equipment, no station and a balance of $2.50. What they lacked in funds and equipment, they made up for in determination. By 1930, the volunteers moved from their original firehouse – a wooden structure on skids that migrated from property to property – to a brick facility on Truckhouse Road they built themselves. Simultaneously they progressed from a $75 horse-pulled ladder wagon to a chemical wagon on a Model T chassis.

By 1939, the firehouse housed a 500 gallon-per-minute (GPM) American LaFrance pumper and an American Fire Apparatus 400 GPM pumper on a Diamond “T” chassis. But they soon outgrew the facility.

Aided by a contractor, EHVFC members completed construction of their current firehouse at 161 Ritchie Highway in late 1957. Over ensuing decades, the fire department membership and complement of equipment grew as neighborhoods grew.
Today the company serves all of greater Severna Park (with a population of nearly 40,000 residents according to the 2020 census).

Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week and remains a very valuable resource for our community. The volunteers save countless lives each year not to mention businesses and properties throughout the area. EHVFC’s website lists 31 first responders, all of whom are devoted to the district as a whole and the neighborhoods in which they live.

“We serve a very densely populated district with a large proportion of property owners,” said Crawford. “The Earleigh Heights volunteers own about $50 million worth of rolling apparatus and contribute the expertise, manpower and labor to use them. (Conversely, there are 15 county-owned stations with budgets running about $350 million a year.) People don’t realize that, if EHVFC went away tomorrow, there would have to be a $1,700 tax increase for every single homeowner to cover fire and rescue operations for the district.”

Obviously, the need to raise funds for a new firehouse for the volunteers is critical. According to Crawford, some of the Anne Arundel County Council members, including District 3’s Nathan Volke, District 5’s Amanda Fiedler and District 7’s Shannon Ledbetter get the importance of EHVFC to the community and feel as strongly about the need for construction funding as he does. Hopefully, the public will take notice. Any and all donations are appreciated no matter how small. Individuals wishing to make a donation my visit Donations – Earleigh Heights VFC (ehvfc.org).

Diehl’s among local produce stands that support our farmers

In our ongoing efforts to #SupportOurLocalFarmers, farmstands, farmers’ markets and produce stands, we circled back to Diehl’s Produce in Severna Park – a favorite local business for 57 years.

Always fun to talk to, manager Jennifer Diehl acknowledged that the stand has continued to uphold a tradition dating back to the days when her father Doug made early-morning runs to the Eastern Shore for sweet corn and tomatoes or to Adams County, Pennsylvania for apples.

“Peaches are in season so we’re selling our wonderful Adams County peaches and apples right now. The sweet corn still comes from the Eastern Shore and is better than ever this year,” Diehl said.

Shielded from the sun by a filmy curtain, an entire corner of one of the tents is devoted to the peaches which look and smell great.

Diehl said the cantaloupes from both the Eastern Shore and from Carroll County are sweet and plentiful. The seeded melons, Canary melons and yellow melons are from the Eastern Shore too.

Much-sought-after tomatoes from the Eastern Shore are a perennial hit and are particularly flavorful this summer according to Diehl.

Summer vegetables ranging from string beans to cucumbers and peppers stream into the stand daily with some from Anne Arundel and Carroll Counties and others from the Eastern Shore. There are also beautiful sunflowers provided to the stand for 50 years by a local gent who also supplies summer squash.

Diehl’s Produce hours are 9 am to 6 pm daily and on Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. You can follow Diehl’s Produce daily at Facebook to see what’s just coming in.

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

Founded in 1961, to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the independent non-profit known for 62 years as Providence Center has been renamed Providence of Maryland, Inc. and rebranded. In front of the non-profit’s headquarters on Shore Acres Road, a newly created sign was shown off by president and CEO Karen Adams-Gilchrist, Aimee Bullen and Dan Walker. Simple in design, the sign features an attractive logo and the name “Providence”.

Adams-Gilchrist explained that she believes the name change better reflects the non-profit’s goals of helping those it serves live their best lives in their communities throughout Anne Arundel and Charles counties.

Providence Center was created in 1961 to serve the needs of “children” with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In 1975, when the Equal Education Law was passed enabling children with developmental disabilities to attend special education classes in public schools, Providence refocused its services to adults. Today it serves nearly 500 individuals at four locations in Anne Arundel County and recently expanded into Charles County where it maintains residential housing for group living support.

“Our biggest concern in rebranding the organization was to drop the word ‘center’ from our name because our work is now based in the community,” Adams-Gilchrist said. “We wanted to send the message that we’re supporting people to live, learn, grow and work in their communities instead of within the four walls of a single building.”

Bullen, vice-president of community relations and development, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that the rebranding focuses attention on Providence’s main goal of “putting people first, helping them be the best they can be”. Many students the organization mentors as they transition from high school to the workplace end up taking jobs or paid internships at Providence headquarters where four large greenhouses are maintained year-round.

Greenhouse manager Rachel Carey oversees vocational training for developmentally challenged students interested in horticultural employment. As the same time, she supervises the planting of seeds and cuttings for environmental restoration projects and for large scale commercial growers working with the Army Corps of Engineers, Dominion Energy, Anne Arundel Community College, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and Maryland Therapeutic Riding among others. Carey gave us a little tour.

She first walked us through the largest greenhouse where we met Patrick Andreoli, Carey’s Assistant General Supervisor Manager who is invaluable in running the greenhouses. A paid staff member, Andreoli is a Providence success story and is still supported by the organization. The light and airy space of the greenhouse was filled with row after row of chrysanthemums being grown for the autumn plant sale. The sale will take place at the same time as Providence’s 8th Annual Harvest Bash fundraiser on Saturday, October 15th at 6 pm. The combination of rustic hued chrysanthemums and thousands of twinkling lights. will provide a beautiful setting for an evening featuring great food and music by the Dan Haas Band.

For those of us who like to support our local farmers and growers, each of the four greenhouses was a joy to see. We appreciated the native plant seedlings and small collection of ornamentals. However, we found the unique collections of plants like Spartina patens, Spartina alterniflora and Andropogon virginius being grown for shoreline restoration projects especially interesting. Providence provides them for shoreline restoration efforts of Anne Arundel Community College, several area riverkeepers and other organizations dedicated to protecting the Chesapeake Bay and our rivers.

• 

• 

A substantial number of students gravitate to Providence’s Pottery & Arts studio at 40 Church Road in Arnold. Studio artists create beautiful and unique products for sale that make wonderful gifts. All items from Providence’s Gifts that Give product line are hand-made with the finest materials. Classes are offered at the studio for the general public along with Paint Your Own Pottery parties. To inquire about classes or schedule a paint party, visit Pottery Studio in Anne Arundel County | Providence of Maryland,

According to Bullen and communications manager Dan Walker, many local businesses sell pieces from the Pottery & Arts Studio. They include Side Street Framers & Gift Gallery in Severna Park, Annebeth’s on Maryland Avenue and Old Fox Books in Annapolis and others.

Bullen noted that Providence has been very successful in building individuals’ vocational skills and placing them with local businesses. Career Services director Jessica Holman and her staff are good at helping people determine what they’d like to do, gain the necessary skills and finding partner employers to offer them jobs or paid internships.

“We now have 72 large and small partner employers that include BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, Luminus Health Anne Arundel Medical Center among others,” Walker said. “That means we have a lot of interaction within the community and the individuals we place with partner employers have a lot of interaction within the community.”

A very successful example of someone Providence matched with an employer is Tyler Kirsh. Tyler has been working at the Giant in Severna Park for the past 13 years, with support from Providence Center’s Employment Consultant Cathy Smith.

Cathy Smith enjoys working with Tyler and admires his attitude, attention to detail, creative problem-solving and his enduring work ethic. She said it’s clear he loves his job.

“It feels good to work,” said Tyler. “I don’t want to be sitting home just playing Xbox. I like being outside and talking to the employees and the customers. Just like the weather outside, somedays are better than others. Sometimes I feel tired at the end of the day, but I feel good. I like working; it makes me a better person.’

Adams-Gilchrist likes the changes brought about as a result of rebranding efforts.

“The thing I’m proudest of is that we’ve changed from being caregivers to coaches helping those we serve live their best lives,” she said.

A smaller change relates to transportation. Providence has switched from transporting individuals in large, conspicuous handicap-accessible buses like the one shown below to smaller vehicles that blend into the work environment.

For additional information about Providence of Maryland visit Providence of Maryland | Home .

AAUW Anne Arundel County Branch kicks off annual used book collections

The American Association of University Women Anne Arundel County Branch is seeking good, clean used books for its annual fall used book sale.  The organization has announced that members will collect books from 9 am to 12 noon on Saturdays on August 12 and 26, September 9 and 23 and October 14 at the following locations:  

St Martin’s in the Field Episcopal Church, 375 Benfield Road in Severna Park (parking lot) Anne Arundel Community College, W. Campus Drive (parking lot off Rt 2) St Phillip’s Episcopal Church, 730 Bestgate Rd, Annapolis (parking lot)  

In addition to collecting books at the above sites, members collect books at Estate Sales throughout the year.  The Book sale will be held in early November with proceeds supporting scholarships for Anne Arundel County women. For more information see AAUW ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY USED BOOK SALE | Facebook or….. visit  http://annearundelcounty-md.aauw.net  or awharrison@yahoo.com.   

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

Though the organizers had publicized the new location of Kinder Farm Park for Anne Arundel County Police Eastern District’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 1, they wondered if the event would draw its usual crowd. Held for the past seven years at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company, it had broken attendance records for several years. In 2019, on the National Night Out event’s fifth anniversary, more than 2,000 people turned out to honor the police officers and firefighters that serve residents across the county.

Luckily, many families from the area are familiar with the park and the athletic field on which it was being held. By opening time, a crowd had begun to form, many of them drawn toward the showpiece of the event and a first for Eastern District National Night Outs – the Anne Arundel County Police helicopter seen in the opening photograph. The pilot and crew of the helicopter were offering attendees the opportunity to climb aboard. As a result, there was a never-ending line of folks eager to accept the offer – especially children.

The setting of Kinder Farm Park for this eighth year of the event was pretty – more like a sprawling village than the orderly rows of booths and display areas at the previous firehouse location. A double row of approximately 50 colorful tents that wound across the field in a semi-circle with a paved path between them and were manned by county police, emergency management and crisis response agencies and community organizations.

In addition to the helicopter, the Anne Arundel County Police were well represented as were the Anne Arundel County Sheriff’s Department and K-9 units.

• 

• 

Among the booths, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police shared some excellent information and some really great giveaways.

Two other must-see booths were those of the Anne Arundel County Office of Emergency Management and the Anne Arundel County Mental Health Crisis Response System.

• 

• 

At the Emergency Management tent, Ashley Abati and Joe Seborowski were handing out Guides to Emergency Preparedness in three different languages plus flyers for the 2023 Emergency Preparedness Expo being held September 16 from 10 am till 2 pm at the Arundel Mills Campus of Anne Arundel County Community College.

Nearby, Crisis Response System team member Melissa was spreading the word about the services CRS provides including crisis interventions, assessments and referrals and crisis intervention teams.

There didn’t seem to be a stage or a paved performance area. Nevertheless, the opening ceremonies got underway near the announcer’s stand. A martial arts demonstration by students of Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi and a K-9 demonstration took place on the grass a bit later. Every now and again, the narrow, paved pathway between the tents got a bit crowded but the flow was steady as visitors wound their way from one end to the other.

There were many games for children to play. An array of games at the Jing Ying Institute tent drew a never-ending flow of kids and kept student volunteer Melinda busy handing out prizes and candy.

Several Boy Scout of America troops offered games. The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s Liz League and husband Jim ran a fishing game and SPAN, Inc. development director Michelle Sabean and her volunteers had a beanbag tossing game.

• 

• 

National Night Out events were created throughout the country to give community residents and the police and firefighters who serve them a chance to get to know each other.

There was noticeably less fire and emergency equipment on display than in other years. We saw just three examples sharing space at one end of the field. Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company brought its newest piece of equipment, a Special Response Unit that specializes in water and offroad emergencies – especially in inclement weather.

• 

• 

The Anne Arundel County Fire Department also had two pieces of emergency equipment on display – an Emergency Medical Services truck and an Emergency Command/Communications vehicle that attendees could walk through.

As has been the case in the past, a number of community, environmental and church organizations and small businesses were represented. We came across April Stup and Emalee Crawford from Partners In Care, Laura McElwain Colquhoun who is publisher for Macaroni Kids serving Pasadena, Severna Park and Glen Burnie, Maureen Carr York from the Greater Severna Park Council and several others. We were also pleased to see the Severn River Lions out and a group from Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church.

• 

• 

Lest we forget the small businesses, we came across youngsters Preston and Greyson Hardgrave who were representing a new school about to open in Arnold called Acton Academy. The boys’ father Roman Hardgrave is the school’s headmaster.

Last, but not least, was Kinder Farm Park’s contribution to National Night Out and a popular one at that. Lamb “Rain” and his handler had come down from the farm’s barns above the field for a lengthy visit and lots of pets.

Supporting our Local Farmers

In an effort to support our local farmers and growers, we visit quite a few.

Last weekend, we were on our way to a new restaurant recommended to us by a Severna Park friend called Harper’s Waterfront at Turkey Point. On the way, we came across an adorable wagon from Starflower Farm situated next to the Marco Ridge Farm produce stand on Route 424.

Owner Angela Burdeaux, who was cutting sunflowers for a bouquet when we approached the stand told us that Starflower Farm is actually located in Bowie just across the Anne Arundel County line. The fact that Marco Ridge Farm generously allowed her to set up on their property was a welcome surprise as there is a considerable flow of traffic onto Route 424 from Route 50.

We traveled on making a left onto Central Avenue and headed toward the community of Mayo, picking up Mayo Road, bound for our restaurant destination off Turkey Point Road on Turkey Point Island. On the way, we discovered another gem, the Peninsula Farms stand where sweetcorn was selling for 50 cents an ear.

Considering that the stand is located a stone’s throw from the waters of the South River, we were not surprised to see signs for bloodworms and crab cages for sale out front.

According to Carol, who runs the business along with owner Chris, the Peninsula Farms stand has been open for 30 plus years.

“We’re Chris and Carol and everyone knows us,” she said. “The stand has always been just what you see though we’ve expanded a little over the years. The produce we sell comes from local farms.”

The interior of the stand is quaint and filled with abundant amounts of vine ripened tomatoes, ears of sweet corn, cucumbers, squash, string beans, onions, peppers, melons, peaches, plums and many other items.

You can follow Peninsula Farms (at 826 Mayo Road) at Peninsula Farms | Edgewater MD | Facebook.

Quick reminder for College Students

A quick word to let parents and students know about a workshop called Self Defense for College Students being held at Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi this Sunday, August 6 from 2 to 4 pm.

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

August is about to arrive with its typical steamy temperatures but there are plenty of fun activities schedule for the month. Foremost among family-oriented events is Anne Arundel County Eastern District Police’s National Night Out which will occur next Tuesday, August 1 from 6 to 8 pm. We were surprised to learn that the event has a new location this year. It will be held the athletic field at Kinder Farm Park at 1001 Kinder Farm Park Road in Millersville.

Held in previous years at Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Department, the event has been the largest of the National Night Out events in Anne Arundel County and crowds of more than 2,000 people have turned out to honor and support the police officers and firefighters that serve county residents.

According to Liz League of the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce, which is one of the organizations helping plan the event, organizers decided to move the event due to the concern for attendees who tended to park along Magothy Bridge Road if the firehouse parking lots were full. She added that there is some concern that people won’t realize the event has been relocated to Kinder Farm Park.

Sara Gannon, who is heading the National Night Out planning committee, noted that information has been on the event Facebook page and other social media and people have been emailing it and sharing it.

“Earleigh Heights Volunteer Fire Company is going to display on their front sign that we moved,” Gannon said. “Police are going to use an EMS board also.”

She added that Earleigh Heights VFC will have a piece of fire equipment at National Night Out. As in previous years, a great deal of fire and police emergency equipment will be on display.

There will also be 50 vendors participating including many of Anne Arundel County’s finest community organizations like SPAN, Inc., Northern Lights Against Substance Abuse, the Western Anne Arundel County Prevention Coalition and Saving Grace Animal Rescue of Maryland among others.

National Night Out fosters good relationships between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.  In addition to highlighting the important services of our county’s first responders and the fire and emergency equipment they depend on, Eastern District Night Out events offer demonstrations and entertainment to enjoy, snacks to sample, brochures and handouts to collect, and numerous games for kids to play.

TGIF Cookout at the Chamber celebrates the last Friday of July

TGIF Cookouts on the office lawn at 1 Holly Avenue are one of the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce’s favorite summer pastimes. This Friday, July 28th, the noontime-1:30 pm TGIF Cookout at the Chamber will be brought to you by Brandon Gulley of Modern Mind Connections.

There’s nothing like the aromas wafting from a grill to draw a convivial crowd for the casual cookouts. Attendees can enjoy all kinds of burgers including Veggie burgers, sides, dessert and more. Fresh popped corn provided by Pam Negron of the Negron Farmers Insurance Agency!

This event is free to chamber members and $15 for non-members.

Self-Defense workshop for College Students at Jing Ying Institute

With summer speeding by and the fall semester fast approaching, we wanted to let parents and students know about a workshop called Self Defense for College Students being held at Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu & Tai Chi on Sunday, August 6 from 2 to 4 pm. While this self-defense workshop is geared toward students currently in college or headed to college, it is open to other teens and adults. 

There are three levels of self-defense: avoidance, escape and fighting back. The photo seen here demonstrates the second level – escape. In the photo seen here, student Melissa Wittke teamed with teacher Billy Greer for a self-defense demonstration, portraying both victim and attacker. The two illustrated defensive moves like stepping backward so one is beyond an attacker’s reach or turning an attacker’s own energy against him or her.

Supporting our local farmers by visiting farmers markets and produce stands

Cool temperatures and rain during the planting season meant slow growth for corn, tomatoes, melons and other crops from many Anne Arundel County farms. We previously visited Langton Green Community Farm in Millersville where some produce was offered for sale in late June thanks, in part, to the use of greenhouses. However, two of our favorite stands in Davidsonville, Maryland and one at Turkey Point in Edgewater did not open for daily summer produce sales until after July 4th. We’ll have more news from time to time on the farms, farmer’s markets, and produce stands in Millersville, Severna Park, Annapolis and elsewhere.

Last Saturday, we visited Chase’s Produce in South County on Route 424 (Davidsonville Road) which was offering fresh-from-the fields corn, melons and cantaloupes, cucumbers, squash, green beans and other items last Saturday. The popular produce stand had actually been open in the spring for strawberry season but then took a break. Chase’s is known throughout the county and as far away as Washington, D.C. for its Pick-Your-Own Strawberry Days.

According to both Bob Chase and wife Marge, this spring’s strawberry season was the best they’ve experienced over the eight years they’ve been growing and selling the berries.

“With cool temperatures and hardly any rain, the season was incredible. The weather could not have been any better,” Marge said. “We held the strawberry pickings daily and started the first Sunday of May and continued until June 11th which is quite long.”

In contrast, Chase’s produce season started off “quite rough”

“Though the cool weather was ideal for strawberries, we’re paying for it now because low temperatures are bad for produce,” Bob Chase said. “When temperatures finally rose and we got a little rain, crops really jumped so now there’s a lot of green in the fields.”

Chase was less than thrilled, however, with a recent hailstorm that temporarily destroyed his cucumber and squash crops. Regardless, both are now plentiful. Chase’s Produce is open seven days a week through Labor Day after which they open Friday through Sunday. You can follow Chase Produce’s schedule and keep tabs on what’s available at Facebook or by visiting Chase’s Produce – Fruits and Vegetables, Fresh Produce (chasesproduce.com).

We couldn’t resist stopping at nearby Marco Ridge Farm also on Davidsonville Road. In addition to fresh corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, melons, peaches, and flowers, we saw an amazing new variety of pattypan squash.

• 

• 

The Marco Ridge Farm produce stand is currently open Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday and opens at 6 am. Follow them on 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.)

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 Health Care Services

Our Shepherd Lutheran Church chair of Service and Outreach Alex McKeague and his friend Tom Patterson were on a mission in Olde Severna Park Tuesday afternoon spreading the word about a benefit concert for SPAN. The concert, being held at the church on July 27th stars Peter Mayer, singer, songwriter and lead guitarist for Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band for over three decades.

In addition to working with Buffett, Nashville-based Mayer is a well-known touring musician with a tremendous following. He’ll be appearing in the concert with son Brendan Mayer and 20% of the event’s proceeds will be donated to SPAN.

The father/son duo tours together often. Brendan, a musician and songwriter with a following of his own, is delighted to appear with his dad for such a worthy cause.

For both men, combating hunger and food insecurity are important causes. That’s why they were impressed with SPAN’s decades-long dedication to assisting neighbors in need with food or financial assistance.

According to Alex McKeague, the idea for the concert was born during a meeting of Our Shepherd’s unique bible study group that meets weekly for “Tavern Talks: Bibles, Beverages and Bourbon”.

“A buddy of mine and I came up with the idea for the talks while our pastor was on sabbatical a few years ago,” McKeague said. “We decided to get together monthly for bible readings at each other’s homes which we’d then discuss. In doing this, we both liked bourbon so we’d try different bourbons at each meeting and critique them prior to the readings. We called our discussions Bibles and Bourbons. We soon invited other guys to join. Since a few of them didn’t share our love of bourbon, we expanded the choices and called the discussions Bibles, Bourbons & Beverages.”

He added that, as the membership grew, the meetings were referred to as Tavern Talks, a throwback to Martin Luther, founder of the Protestant Reformation, who was known for having table talks in taverns.

The bourbons and beverages were, indeed, fine. But the readings were the primary focus of the meetings. Discussions about them were lively with plenty of opportunity to comment, question or even offer an alternative viewpoint.

“After each reading, we ask ourselves ‘What is God calling us to do to help others?” McKeague said. “As a result, we’ve come up with some great initiatives. We’ve done Habitat for Humanity Chesapeake builds, Habitat for Humanity for the Eastern Shore of Virginia builds, a home expansion for a church member needing a room for her father and we built a sidewalk for an elderly gentleman in Pittsburgh. Doing something to help SPAN through this concert is an extension of that.”

With the beginning of the COVID pandemic in March of 2020, the group transitioned to holding their Tavern Talks via ZOOM. The upside was that it was easy and made it possible to hold the meetings weekly. Nowadays, the fellows are back to getting together in-person. Nevertheless, they continue to ZOOM the meetings too since some members live too far away to regularly attend.

It was through Tom Patterson’s involvement with Tavern Talks, that the members were able to engage Peter and Brendan Mayer for their concert. One of the members who has attended the Tavern Talk meetings for years invited his pal Tom to participate in one.

Patterson is not an Our Shepherd Lutheran Church member, he’s a Roman Catholic, but he truly enjoyed the bible study talk and has attended them regularly ever since.

Patterson is a longtime friend of Peter Mayer who is, interestingly, the son of a Lutheran missionary. Aware that, in addition to continuing to play with Buffet, Mayer has a group of his own that appears in the Annapolis area regularly at venues like Rams Head Onstage, he thought the duo of Peter and Brendan would be a great draw for a concert benefitting SPAN.

According to SPAN, Inc.’s director of development Michelle Sabean, the summer months are typically times of low donations, so the organization needs help to replenish the pantry and coffers. Cash donations are used to aid families with utility turn-offs, court ordered evictions, and prescription or medical needs during times of emergency.

“I’m pleased the Tavern Talk members from Our Shepherd Lutheran Church, on whose property we are located thought of holding their concert starring Peter and Brendan Mayer as a fundraiser for SPAN,” Sabean said. “I love how their group asks ‘What is God saying to us? What are we doing about it?’ They believe – love each other and love our neighbors and find many ways to help them such as this concert for us.”

Sabean and co-director Maia Grabau are particularly thrilled that the Mayers offered to donate 20% of their ticket sales to SPAN at such a critical time.

The concert will begin at 7 pm on July 27 in the church sanctuary. Tickets are $25 each and may be obtained at Peter Mayer (Severna Park concert).

Sad news from St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School

Head of School Tony Shaffer of St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School shared news on Tuesday of the passing of beloved teacher Ellen Stanton on June 17th after a long illness.

He said Mrs. Stanton is fondly remembered as a life-long educator who spent the majority of her career at St. Martins in the Field Day School.

The Stanton family has established the Ellen Stanton Memorial Fund at St. Martin’s Episcopal School to support Lower School enrichment field trips, which were prominent in Mrs. Stanton’s teaching philosophy. Those wishing to support this fund in honor of Mrs. Stanton, can visit the school’s Giving Page.

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

Over the past couple months, a couple of new businesses have opened in Severna Park. The newest is the Tropical Smoothie Cafe which opened at 366 Ritchie Highway in the former Mariner Bank building.

Reimagined, the building is home to the area’s second Tropical Smoothie Cafe franchise following an extensive renovation. The franchise for the new cafe is held by Sandip Patel who currently operates the other Tropical Smoothie Cafe at 8000 Jumper’s Hole Road in Pasadena. It now features a bright, modernistic interior with a tropical vibe.

The idea behind Tropical Smoothie Cafes is to make eating better easy with fresh, made-to-order smoothies, wraps, flatbreads and quesadillas that instantly boost your mood. 

Severna Park recently bid a fond farewell to Clement Hardware after five decades as a family business while, at the same time, welcoming its successor. In March, owner Gordon Clement sold the business to friend, former customer and family business owner Rick Miller in one of the most seamless and amicable business transactions we’ve ever seen.

By the beginning of April, Miller had taken over the business. We met with both of them and learned that Clement will stay involved in his already existing real estate business.

• 

• 

Miller, who has renamed the store Park Hardware, maintained the staff and services of Clement Hardware but is updating and transforming the interior. For the first time, he entered the Park Hardware truck in the Severna Park Independence Day parade along with one from the fourth-generation family business Zeskind’s of which he is also a part.

Sadly, we’ve had to say goodbye to some of our favorite shopkeepers this year. We’ll miss their friendly faces.

April 1 was the final day of operation for Cakes and Confections Bakery Cafe. It was always such fun to chat with amiable owner and chef Michael Brown while trying to decide which yummy sweets to buy. We also had a great time meeting friends for lunch in the cafe where the quiches were superb. For 12 years Michael and Julienne Brown operated Cakes and Confections from their original location in Annapolis before moving to Severna Park in 2014. The family bakery had a wonderful customer base but, after 22 years the Browns decided it was time to retire. We wish them well.

More recently, Lisa Edelman Schneiderman and husband Glen announced that they were retiring from creating and marketing their custom pops and closing the Lisa’s Cakepops storefront off Ritchie Highway to move to Florida where most of their family lives.

Having started making cakepops in her California kitchen, sharing them with friends and then marketing them, Lisa saw her business take off after moving to Severna Park. We’d see her displaying her fabulous pops at almost every community event. After adding an e-commerce element, Lisa’s Cakepops expanded dramatically. Lisa and Glen finally fulfilled a dream of hers by opening their storefront with its commercial kitchen. By the beginning of 2023, they were producing thousands of cakepops for catalog companies along with their regular business.

An official goodbye party was held for the couple at the storefront by the Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber on June 29th.

A well-known local business has plans to take over the storefront/commercial kitchen’s lease and sublease it to different bakers. We’ll have more on this in an upcoming column.

Area shoppers, DIY types and antiques collectors definitely miss stopping by the Red Apron Shoppe where owners Mary Ann and Cam Neal could often be found. While not entirely gone from the scene thanks to their primary business Red Apron Estate Sales, the pair was sorry to leave the shop behind. However, a substantial increase in rent for the property made the cost of doing business there unsustainable.

In addition to filling the Red Apron Shoppe with a mix of contemporary pieces, vintage finds, and collections of China, glassware and furnishings gleaned from the estate sales they handle, the Neal’s also tried to bring back the neighborhood feel Severna Park was known for by selling penny candy for kids, homemade breads from local bakers, eggs from local farms, and crafts from local crafters. We understand that the Neals are looking for a new location for the shop though it may not be in Severna Park. Meantime, they’re offering shop items through their website.

Another long-time Severna Park business, Kirsten’s Cakery, also closed its doors in May. Owner Kirsten Klein opened her original shop at Park Plaza in 2011 but reopened Kirsten’s Cakery at its new location at 541 Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard in Olde Severna Park in March of 2016. For over a decade, locals would meet Klein at the numerous community events she’d participate in where the Cakery’s truffles were always a hit.

We’ve been unable to reach Kline to determine if she’ll be retiring for a while to spend time with her family or moving on.

Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce CEO Liz League noted that there are few new businesses opening due to the high costs associated with launching a new enterprise. However, a number of businesses are celebrating anniversaries.

“The chamber will be doing a ribbon cutting for the grand openings of the new businesses Atlantic Blue Water Service and The Sheridan in Severna Park assisted living community. Those celebrating anniversaries include Healing Paws Veterinary Wellness Center and Delmarva Financial Group,” League said.

She added that a new indoor pickle ball facility will open this fall. Though called The PutAway of Severna Park, it will actually be located on Nogales Road in Millersville.

According to business publication WIX.com, there was an 11.2% increase in producer prices from a year ago meaning businesses and consumers face a similar problem. Who will absorb the rising costs of supplies?

Amid inflation, small businesses hesitating to raise their prices must pay that difference themselves or be forced to transfer some of those costs over to customers, potentially losing loyal clients in the process.

A 2022 Goldman Sachs survey found that 91% of small business owners already struggled with the current economy’s impact on their industries, and 56% said the situation worsened since the beginning of 2023, painting a bleaker picture for the coming months.

Hopefully, area residents’ efforts to SHOP LOCAL will insulate our small independent merchants from the high costs of doing business.

Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church receives environmental award

We just received word from Karen Royer that Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church has been awarded one of the five Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) Sustainability Leadership Awards for 2023.

Woods Church’s environmental achievements include reducing energy usage by more than 50%, capturing storm water runoff from rooftops and paved surfaces in rain gardens and wooded areas, planting over 1000 native trees, shrubs and perennials, restoring the habitat for a variety of birds, wildlife and pollinators and refurbishing 500 sanctuary chairs for donation to other congregations in Baltimore, Delaware and North Carolina.

We were unable to report the float contest winners last week as they’d yet to be released. Luckily, we have a few of them down

Severna Park Independence Day Parade float winners

There were many wonderful parade entries and floats including the most patriotic entry – the massive Nathan McDavitt Memorial Flag. However, we’ve chosen to feature the four “Bests”.

Voted the Best Overall Float was the Linstead on the Severn community float with its well-crafted Blue Heron

The Best Overall Theme award went to Orphan Grain Train which perfectly conveyed the parade’s theme, “Bold Stripes, Bright Stars, Brave Hearts.

• 

• 

The Best Commercial Float winner was Homestead Gardens 50th Anniversary Float while the Olde Severna Park community took Best Community Float prize.

• 

• 

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.