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October 27, 2025

ARCHIVE Chestertown Spy

Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Chestertown

6 Arts Notes

The Artists’ Gallery to Show Freeman Dodsworth’s “Like the First Morning” on First Friday

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Sun Salutation

On First Friday, November 7th, The Artists‘ Gallery will feature the most recent work of one of their exhibiting artists, Freeman Dodsworth.  Freeman’s work in “Like the First Morning” captures and interprets scenes ranging from intimate moments of home life to the wild vistas of sea, field and sky found only here on the Chesapeake Bay.  In all of these paintings, Dodsworth captures a moment where transitory light and shadow transform ordinary objects in our lives into something new and mysterious.

Still Life, with Dog

Freeman Dodsworth is an oil painter who travels the back roads of his native Chesapeake Bay, painting the skies, clouds, fields and rivers that he finds along the way.  A long time Calvert County resident, Dodsworth also lived on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where he attended Washington College and lived for several years after graduation.  While there, he studied with legendary Eastern Shore painter, Terry Wolf, who became his friend and mentor.  Wolf, with his infectious enthusiasm and impeccable skills as a painter and teacher, helped Dodsworth realize his deep passion for making art, and in particular oil painting.  His art education was interrupted when Dodsworth joined the U.S. Navy and headed for flight training in Pensacola, Florida.  That detour from painting lasted 25 years and included marriage and the rearing of two wonderful kids.  But when his mentor Wolf passed away in 2017, Dodsworth was drawn back to the easel, where he has been ever since.
Dodsworth has studied under contemporary masters including Joe Paquet, Nancy Tankersly, Kami Mendlick and Patick Okransinski.  Over the past two years, Dodsworth has received various awards for his work, including Best Nocturne in Plein Air Litchfield in Litchfield, CT and an Honorable Mention with Local Color in Easton in 2024 and juried shows and competitions in 2025 with River Towns Plein Air, Paint Annapolis, Plein Air Easton, Plein Air Litchfield, MD Federal of Art Members show and MD Federal of Art House of Delegates show.
The public is invited to visit The Artists‘ Gallery for an opening reception on First Friday, November 7th from 5-7:30 p.m. for light refreshments and to meet the artist.  The Artists‘ Gallery is located at 239 High Street in Chestertown and is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays from 12:30-4:30 p.m.  For more information, please call the gallery at 410-778-2425 or visit www.theartistsgalleryctown.com.

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The Eastern Shore Writers Association and Cult Classic Brewing Company Announce Inaugural Holiday Book Festival

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The Eastern Shore Writers Association (ESWA), in partnership with Kent Island’s Cult Classic Brewery, is proud to announce the first ever ESWA HOLIDAY BOOK FESTIVAL, taking place on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

Open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the ESWA Holiday Book Festival at Cult Classic will offer book lovers an opportunity to connect with their favorite authors from all over Delmarva and discover new voices across a variety of genres. There will be books for sale, signings, readings, giveaways, and for the convenience of holiday shoppers, gift-wrapping services. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy the host location’s food, beverages, and hospitable cheer throughout the day.

Now celebrating its 40th year, the Eastern Shore Writers Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving writers and their supporters throughout Delmarva. In addition to this year’s Holiday Book Festival, ESWA’s annual efforts include the long-running Bay to Ocean Writers Conference and the publication of the Bay to Ocean literary journal. https://easternshorewriters.org/

Cult Classic is a brewery, bar, restaurant, and live entertainment venue hosting everything from concerts and comedy to creative revels and community fundraisers. Dedicated to supporting the arts, this locally owned business regularly hosts author presentations, a popular book club, and writers get-togethers. Teaming up with ESWA seems like the perfect plot twist.  https://cultclassicbrewing.com/

For media inquiries or to schedule interviews with ESWA representatives please contact Brent Lewis at 410-310-8216 or [email protected]. Organizers are excited to share more about this event and would appreciate your help in spreading the word.

Remember: It’s time for the Holidays – and books make great gifts!

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Brampton 1860 Announces New Hire in Event Sales Management

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Nina Fleegle

Brampton 1860, a historic boutique hotel and event venue on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, is pleased to announce the appointment of Nina Fleegle as its new  Event Sales Manager. Fleegle joins the Brampton 1860 staff following her successful tenures with KRM Development Corporation and as Executive Director for Main Street Historic Chestertown, where she played a key role in promoting the town’s rich history, cultural attributes, and economic growth.

In her new role, Fleegle will oversee acquisition and coordination of events for Brampton 1860, including weddings, retreats, and special celebrations. She will also work closely with management to enhance the ongoing development of guest experiences and expand the venue’s presence as a top destination for refined gatherings on the Eastern Shore.

“Nina brings exceptional local knowledge, creativity, and community spirit to our staff,” said Hilari Rinehart,  co-owner of Brampton 1860”. “Her background in event planning and her passion for Chestertown make her an ideal fit as we continue to grow our hospitality and events offerings.”

A longtime Chestertown resident, Fleegle has deep ties to the local community and a proven record of fostering partnerships that support tourism and small business development. Her transition to Brampton 1860 represents a natural next step in her commitment to celebrating the inn’s and the region’s unique charm and hospitality.

“I’m thrilled to join Brampton 1860 and help create memorable experiences for our guests,” said Fleegle. “This property is such a beautiful reflection of Chestertown’s history and heart, and I’m excited to share that story through each event we host.”

For more information, visit brampton1860.com or call 410.770.1860.

 

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Letter to the Editor: Why Older People Protest

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A recent news article about the No Kings rally on October 18th brought over 200 Facebook comments. Many comments ridiculed and mocked attendees for being “old.”  For example: “Senior field trip?” “Such a nice outing for the elderly of Eastern Shore.”  “Well, now they have to have something to do.” “Senior center closed on Saturdays.”

While I could laugh these off, they motivated me to respond. Seniors were the largest demographic at the rally in Chestertown. I feel I can speak for fellow “Boomers” when I say we are very concerned about the direction our country is headed under the leadership of the current administration.

I am proud to be a vocal, active older American who speaks out, votes, and attends peaceful protests. It’s true, we do have “extra time on our hands.”  Retirees, like me, born in the 1950s and ‘60s are freer than younger working parents with children, or college students who face deadlines for exams and projects.

But free time is not the main reason older people protest. Those of us who are 60+ have witnessed history and have spoken out for many decades. We lived through and still recall a time when black children could not attend school with white kids, churches were bombed to retaliate against civil rights activism, black people were denied a vote or even a seat at the lunch counter.  Until 1968, Jews and Blacks could not get mortgages to buy houses in certain Washington DC neighborhoods and in other cities. Young men were drafted in the 1960s for an illegitimate war.

Not too long ago, before the ACA was passed, you could be denied health insurance because you had a pre-existing condition and your insurance coverage might end when you left your job.  Individual health plans outside of the workplace were scarce and expensive.

I remember when women were paid 50% of what men earned for the same job, and when women couldn’t apply for a credit card in their own name—they had to use their husband’s.  Employment ads in the 1960s were separated between male and female job categories.

It wasn’t until 1972, when I was in college, that unmarried women could get birth control prescriptions. I remember when women died in back-alley abortions because the procedure was illegal. There were no protections for clean water or accessible building requirements for the disabled.

I knew LGBTQ couples who were denied marriage licenses and hospital visits with their loved ones because they were not “legal relatives.” Federal workers were exposed and fired just for being gay.

Why did things change? Because people spoke up, demanded change…and voted. We cannot forget those times we lived through and we do not want to go back. Our basic rights, which many of us worked so hard for, now seem like they are slipping away.

We, older protesters, sincerely believe that we are helping future generations. Most of us have children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. We are not speaking up for the wealthy or an elite segment of our society. We are speaking up for YOU, me— all working- and middle-class Americans.  You may think the denial of rights to legal immigrants does not affect you, or that cuts to Medicaid do not hurt your families. But soon the changes to healthcare benefits, the loss of farm workers, cuts to public education, food stamps, scientific research, vaccines, and so much more, will affect all of us.

It’s time to look ahead with a positive and hopeful attitude and put snide comments aside.  Take some time, study and learn about history, understand the struggles of the past, so we aren’t forced to repeat them.

Young people, you are the key to continuing the fight for our democracy. Remember that you have power—to vote, to speak out and that, yes, you can change things for the better. I know, because I saw it happen in my lifetime.  Young activists are strong in major cities across the country. They often outnumber older protesters and have creative new ways of getting their messages across. I’m sure Kent County has determined, outspoken young leaders. We need you to step up now more than ever.

As Thomas Paine said, “The mind once enlightened cannot again become dark…we have it in our power to begin the world over again.”

 

Eileen Kessler

Cofounder Citizens Connect, Kent County MD

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Candidates Forum For Tuesday, October 21 Moved to Emmanuel Episcopal Church

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The Candidates Forum originally scheduled to take place in Town Hall has been moved to Emmanuel  Episcopal Church at 101 N Cross Street,  Chestertown.

The time remains the same, 6 pm on Tuesday, October 21.

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HomePorts Announces Two New Members to the Board of Directors

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Fannie Hobba-Shenk

HomePorts, Inc. today announced two new board members who will each support the organization’s mission of helping Kent County

Nensi Fiorenini

residents ages 55+ remain independently and safely in their own homes.  

“We’re excited to expand our board with two new members who bring new and diverse experience to our work,” said HomePorts Board President John Murphy, MD.  “We are working diligently to ensure HomePorts’ board and leadership represents a variety of experts from the fields of senior healthcare, elder-related law, volunteer leadership, non-profit communications and fundraising, and governmental and public relations.  Our newest board members are no exception.”  

The new board members began their three-year terms with HomePorts in September 2025, and can serve a maximum of two terms.  The two new board members are Fannie Hobba-Shenk and Nensi Fiorenini.

Fannie Hobba-Shenk Fannie Hobba Shenk joined the HomePorts board of directors, having recently retired from Washington College where she worked for more than 15 years in roles that included Alumni Engagement Director, Associate Director of Advancement, Major Gift Officer, Reunion Giving Officer and Administrative Assistant for Advancement.

Nensi Fiorenini Most recently, Nensi has served as Chairman of the Board for the Senior Citizens Lobby in Washington, DC. In this role, Nensi has driven impactful change, representing the interests and advocating for the well-being of senior citizens at the policy level, while shifting the organizational focus to social security reform.  

To learn more about the HomePorts board and read full bios, visit www.homeports.org 

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Echo Hill Outdoor School to Host Community Trunk or Treat Event Presented by PNC Bank

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Echo Hill Outdoor School will host its first annual Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 25, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the foot of High Street in Chestertown.

This free, family-friendly event invites community members to enjoy a safe and festive Halloween experience. Attendees can walk through a collection of creatively decorated trunks, collect candy, and celebrate the season together. Costumes are encouraged, and all children and their families are welcome.

PNC Bank is serving as the Presenting Sponsor of the event, helping make this celebration possible for our community.

Echo Hill Outdoor School (EHOS) is currently seeking individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to participate by decorating their vehicles and distributing candy to trick-or-treaters. EHOS will provide the candy for distribution, and cash prizes will be awarded to the top three decorated trunks.

“This is a fun way to celebrate Halloween as a community,” said Adrienne Wrona of Echo Hill Outdoor School. “We’re thrilled to partner with PNC Bank to make this event possible and look forward to seeing the creativity and excitement everyone brings.”

Participation spaces for decorated trunks are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To register your vehicle, please email Peter Rice, Executive Director, at [email protected] or call 410-348-5880.

For more information about Echo Hill Outdoor School, visit www.ehos.org.

 

 

 

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Lions Club’s Annual Halloween Parade Returns November 1

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Get ready to be dazzled!- The Lions Club is thrilled to invite you to our 50+ year tradition, the Annual Halloween Parade! With live music from local marching bands. Such as The Kent County High School, Delmarva United and Sudlersville Middle School. On Saturday, Nov 1st, beginning at 1:30 pm at Dixon Drive off High Street in Chestertown MD!

Parade Route: We’ll gather at Dixon Drive, then march down High Street- so you won’t miss a single haunted float or costumed character!

What to Expect

  • Creative Floats & performers
  • Live music & marching bands
  • Costume Contest for pets & all ages
  • Pinatas filled with candy!!!
  • Face Painting!! near Stam Hall on High St

Be Part of the Magic!

Whether you’re playing music or simply cheering from the sidewalks, you’re a star of this show. Mark your calendar, get into costume, and join us for an unforgettable, family-friendly parade that will surely send shivers up your spine! And a welcome to our grand Marshal John Swain. John was instrumental in the founding and construction of the Sultana Project.

Want to March or Strut Your Stuff?

Costumed Participants- (solo walkers, small groups, or furry friends) can register just before the parade from 12pm to 1:15pm in front of Sacred Heart Church on High Street. Registration opens up 75 minutes before the parade!!! Must be done by 1:15 PM sharp.

Float Participants- (no preregistration necessary) but you MUST follow safety guidelines. Please keep signage minimal, avoid overt commercial or political displays, and ensure all riders stay secure. Floats will line up across from Dixon Drive on High Street. All floats should embrace the Halloween theme- spooky, fun, and of course kid friendly.

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Letter to the Editor: Ward 1 Candidates

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Dear Neighbors,
Tuesday, November 4, will be the election for a new Mayor and for Ward 1 Council seat.  We would like to share information with you on those candidates we support. (If you don’t live in Ward 1, just skip the third paragraph!)
Mark Mumford is running for Mayor.  He is a well-known figure in our town—from leading the Kent County Community Marching Band to heading the county circuit court as clerk for 30 years to being seen around and about town all his life.  Mark has the experience, the deep appreciation of Chestertown and what makes our town special, as well as the deep community ties needed to be an effective Mayor of our beloved town.  He knows how to get things done.  We have attached the information card he is sharing around town.   Just take a look at the extensive list of his community service credentials—he knows our whole community inside out! We have known Mark almost since we moved to Chestertown 18 years ago; he has our wholehearted support to be our next Mayor.
Dwight Zilinskas is running to represent Ward 1.  He has earned his community “chops” by  chairing the Town’s Recreation Committee.  We met Dwight last week when he was visiting houses in Ward 1, knocking on doors, handing out a card with his information, and talking about local issues. (He has been all over Ward 1 except to Heron Point, which comprises a third of Ward 1—he was “banned” when he asked permission to visit there, so if you live at Heron Point and haven’t heard from Dwight, that’s why.)  We were impressed with his love for our town, his demonstrated commitment through service on the Recreation Commission,  and his stated commitment to be vigilant, questioning, and transparent if elected.  He also has extensive   business experience, which is essential to knowing how to work with Town staff and keeping the wheels of our Town government moving smoothly.  For more information about Dwight, read this article in the Chestertown Spy
We understand that the League of Women Voters will be hosting a Candidates Forum next Tuesday, October 21, 6 pm, 2d floor of Town Hall.  Join us there to hear Mark, Dwight, and all the candidates. And please vote on November 4.
Best,
Barb Jorgenson & David Bowering

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Kappa Sigma’s Pancake Breakfast Benefiting Veterans’ Charities

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The Kappa Sigma Fraternity at Washington College, Chestertown MD, has a long and proud tradition of supporting veterans’ charities, primarily through its semi-annual charity pancake breakfast. Since its inception, this event has raised nearly $100,000 for the Kappa Sigma Military Heroes Campaign – a composite charity serving the medical, psychological, physical, and housing needs of America’s veterans – one pancake at a time.

This semester’s pancake breakfast will be held on Saturday 1 November at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Chestertown (101 N Cross St, Chestertown, MD 21620)  8am-1pm. As usual, a donation of $5.00 – 100% of which goes to charity – gets you all-you-can eat pancakes, eggs, sausage, bacon, juices, and coffee.

This year, 100% of ticket sales and all donations will be donated to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home, an assisted living ands skilled nursing facility catering to Maryland Veterans.  To learn more about this important resource for Maryland Veterans, click here.

For more information about the event, please feel free to contact the chapter’s President, Robert King (bking [email protected])  or the chapter’s advisor, Aaron Krochmal ([email protected]).

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