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!

When Elizabeth “Liz” Clark applied for a part-time job delivering furniture at Haven Ministries’ Hope Warehouse, she never expected to end up managing the administrative heartbeat of the organization.

But Haven’s leadership had other things in mind for Liz, who double-majored in information systems and economics in college and had decades of IT, volunteer, and fundraising experience. Since stepping into the role of office manager and assistant to the executive director in January 2025, Clark has become a cornerstone of operations, donor relations, and strategic outreach.

“She has a perfect balance of compassion and firmness in her role vetting qualified individuals to benefit from our Church Benevolence Fund,” said Peter Grim, executive director of Haven Ministries. “As an administrative assistant and office manager, Liz wears many hats and can capably ‘keep all the balls in the air.’”

Clark’s impact was immediate. Within her first month, she identified a major issue in Haven’s donation processing system. Donor credit cards were expiring unnoticed, with no alerts to the donors, halting monthly giving. Through targeted outreach and restructured reporting protocols, she recovered an estimated $2,000 in monthly donations and ensured future gifts didn’t slip through the cracks.

“I believe in this mission. I want to see this organization flourish and grow and succeed,” Clark said.

Beyond administrative duties, Clark took initiative to nurture relationships with local businesses, churches, and civic groups — creating new pipelines of support. From organizing fundraisers like the Rams Head Shore House Give Back Night scheduled for Nov. 5, 2025 (when diners mention Haven, 20 percent of their food purchase will support Haven Ministries), to co-managing silent auctions for major events, she’s helped raise funds for Haven’s programs.

Clark also oversees Haven’s Church Benevolence Fund, working directly with clients facing eviction or utility shutoffs.

As a public speaker and Toastmaster, Clark also is a frequent voice for the organization, recently representing Haven on QACTV and continuing to envision a future of growth, sustainability, and community connection.

 “We run on donations and faith. And I believe both can go a long way,” Clark said.

To support Haven Ministries, visit www.haven-ministries.org

Love shapes the ministry, love transforms people, and hope prevails at Haven Ministries. Haven Ministries operates a seasonal Homeless Shelter, the Jacob Sloan Day Center, a Resource Center, a Food Pantry in Queenstown, Our Daily Thread Thrift Store in Chester, Hope Warehouse in Queenstown, and a Food Pantry Satellite location in Sudlersville.

Calendar Brief:

November 5: Rams Head Shore House Give Back Night will be held Wednesday, Nov. 5. When diners mention “Haven Ministries,” 20 percent of their food purchase will benefit Haven Ministries.

Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore (BBBSES) is shining a spotlight on the power of mentoring during Bullying Prevention Month and Beyond.

Standing Strong Together: Mentoring Stops Bullying Before it Starts

Maryland Eastern Shore – October 2025 – Big Brothers

Bullying continues to be a pressing issue on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. According to the most recent Maryland Department of Health’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey completed by Maryland Eastern Shore high school students, 18.4% have been bullied in school, 15.9% were cyberbullied, 38.5% felt sad or hopeless. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for mentors to inspire confidence, competence, and caring for local youth.

“Mentorship changes lives,” said Jessica Mimms, Executive Director of BBBSES. “A caring adult mentor helps a child not only navigate the challenges of bullying but also build the confidence, competence, and caring they need to stand up for themselves and others. Mentoring prevents youth from being bullied, and it also prevents them from becoming bullies.”

Mentorship prevents bullying, promotes positive mental health, and builds confidence in local youth. According to the agency’s most recent report, 99% of youth matched with a mentor improved their self-confidence, ability to express feelings, and decision-making, while 93% reported an improved sense of their future.

“Our vision is for every child to feel safe, supported, and strong,” Mimms said. “Having a mentor gives youth the tools to face adversity, make positive choices, and create a future where bullying has no place.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore invites the community to join in this mission during Bullying Prevention Month and beyond. The agency will host a virtual anti bullying session for parents and mentors on Wednesday, November 5^th at 6:30pm at youtube.com/user/BBBSES. The session will include topics of how to prevent bullying, types of bullying , how to advocate for self, how to stand up against bullying, and the difference between bullying and tattling.

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About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore

For more than 40 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has helped ignite the potential of youth on Maryland’s Eastern Shore through programs, enrichment activities, and resources tailored to the growing needs of the community. Donations, volunteer mentors, and community partnerships ensure that every child has the guidance and resources they need to thrive. For more Information or to become a volunteer mentor, please call (410) 543-2447 or visit www.shorebiglittle.org. Keep updated on the latest agency highlights and news by following BBBSES on social media, Facebook @BBBSES, Instagram @shorebigs, and X @ESBigs

Martin’s House & Barn is proud to announce the appointment of four new members to its  Board of Directors, each bringing valuable expertise and a deep commitment to strengthening our community. 

Joining the board are: 

• Dr. Tia Bell, MSW – Youth Services Director, Channel Marker (Dorchester and Denton). Dr. Bell brings  extensive experience in youth services and mental health advocacy, ensuring that the voices and needs of  young people remain central to community solutions. 
• Mr. Kevin Callahan – Director of Advancement, Wye River Upper School. Mr. Callahan has deep  experience in nonprofit operations and fundraising, with a proven record of strengthening organizational  sustainability. His expertise will support Martin’s House & Barn as it continues to grow its capacity to serve  families experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. 
• Mr. Andrew Carroll – Owner, Bayside Market, Rock Hall. Mr. Carroll has extensive experience in grocery  store management. His perspective on food distribution and commitment to addressing food insecurity  will help the organization continue to meet the growing needs of families across the Mid-Shore. 
• Ms. Michelle Hall – Director of Constituent Engagement and Event Management, Chesapeake College.  Ms. Hall brings broad experience in engagement, outreach, and event management, strengthening the  organization’s ability to connect with supporters and build awareness of its mission. 

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Bell, Mr. Callahan, Mr. Carroll, and Ms. Hall to our Board of Directors,”  said Deborah Hudson Vornbrock, Executive Director of Martin’s House & Barn. “Their expertise and  community leadership will be invaluable as we continue our work to provide shelter, food, and hope to  families in need across the Mid-Shore.” 

Martin’s House & Barn continues to serve as a vital resource for families experiencing homelessness and  hunger, providing emergency shelter, food pantry services, and a range of supportive programs grounded in  compassion and dignity. The addition of these four outstanding leaders strengthens the organization’s vision  for a community where every family has the opportunity to thrive. 

For more information about Martin’s House & Barn or ways to support its mission, please visit www. MartinsHouseandBarn.org. 

On Saturday, September 27, Easton’s historic downtown will once again come alive as the Talbot County community gathers to celebrate the incredible legacy of Frederick Douglass, one of the county’s most inspiring historical figures. Born into slavery near Easton in 1818, Douglass rose to prominence as a powerful orator, writer, and abolitionist after publishing his groundbreaking autobiography. Frederick Douglass Day 2025 promises a full day of celebration and education with uplifting speeches, live music, engaging activities, and unforgettable experiences for all ages.

The festivities begin at 10am with a vibrant parade led by Grand Marshal Childene Brooks, former president of the Frederick Douglass Honor Society, and Community Marshals from the family of former FDHS president Brenda Wooden. Joining them will be local organizations such as BAAM (Building African American Minds), the Easton High School NJROTC Color Guard, Polaris Village Academy, the Easton and Oxford Fire Departments, and the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center. The parade will also feature performances by the Easton Middle School and White Marsh Elementary School bands, along with the celebrated local bagpiper Randy Welch. The procession sets off from Easton Elementary School on Glenwood Avenue and makes its way to the Talbot County Courthouse on Washington Street.

At 10:30am, the celebration continues with a Welcome Ceremony on the courthouse lawn, hosted by Mistress of Ceremonies Gabriella Thompson. The program opens with an invocation by 15-year-old minister Javion Jones of Union Baptist Church, followed by remarks from community leaders including Easton Town Council President Don Abbatielo, Talbot County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Sharon Pepukayi, Talbot County Free Library Director Dana Newman, Washington College’s Jaelon T. Moaney, and student leader Giuliana Thompson. Music for the ceremony will include the Mid-Shore Community Band under Matthew Fullerton’s direction, with special performances by Randy Welch and Dana Bowser.

Children won’t want to miss the always-popular Children’s Village outside the Talbot County Free Library. From face painting and Frederick Douglass–themed coloring books to a prize wheel, photo booth, and story time with Shauna Beulah at 11:30am and 12:30pm, the activities are sure to delight. Inside the library, families can explore multimedia exhibits on Douglass’s life and legacy, as well as view historic artifacts on loan from the National Park Service.

At 1pm, the library will host an engaging lecture by Nicholas Buccola, professor of humanism and ethics at Claremont McKenna College. His talk, “Frederick Douglass, American Revolutionary,” will explore how Douglass reimagined the ideals of America’s founding fathers to address the struggles of his time. Buccola, widely recognized for his scholarship on figures such as James Baldwin and Abraham Lincoln, is also the author of the forthcoming book One Man’s Freedom, which examines the ideological clash between Martin Luther King Jr. and conservative politician Barry Goldwater.

New this year is a special walking tour of The Hill, the oldest free African American community in the nation. Beginning at 3pm at Harrison and Dover Streets, historian Yvonne Freeman will guide participants through historic sites including the Hambleton House, James Freeman Home, and Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church. This fascinating tour offers a unique chance to step into history and learn more about a community dating back to the 1780s.

From noon to 3pm, the Entertainment Stage at Dover and West Streets will feature an exciting lineup of performers. Soloists include American Idol contestant Ayla Dennis, Ruby Fisher, and Sofia Fernandez, while group acts such as the Asbury United Methodist Choir, New St. John’s United Methodist Men’s Choir, the Allegra Academy Choir, and the Bay Country Chorus will lift their voices in harmony. The celebration will close with a lively block party set from Allan Butler, ensuring the day ends on a high note. A bustling marketplace nearby will showcase local food vendors and community groups throughout the afternoon.

Since its debut in 2011, Frederick Douglass Day has become one of Talbot County’s most treasured traditions, blending history, culture, and community pride into one unforgettable celebration. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, so mark your calendars for Saturday, September 27, and join us in honoring the life and legacy of one of our country’s greatest minds.

 

The Rev. Chris J. Antal, who became minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Easton on Aug. 1, will lead the first Sunday service and deliver the first sermon of his new ministry on Sept. 14.

Antal and his wife XingQin Feng moved into what he calls a “small ranchhouse” located a few miles east of Oxford, west of Easton, and north of Trappe. He is the father of five adult children – Justin, Eliot, Yuna, Sulhee and Makoto – by a previous marriage. Chris and XingQin visited the Eastern Shore for the first time while he was interviewing for the UUFE opening.

“We both felt immediately drawn to the natural beauty and historic significance of the region,” he said, adding that he was impressed with the UUFE leadership in sharing how the fellowship acted with what he gathered is “a fierce commitment to spiritual values and meaningful engagement with the surrounding community.”

Joy Gaddy, a member of the leadership team who interviewed Antal and traveled to Philadelphia with another member to witness his ministry as a Veterans Administration chaplain, shared her impressions: “Throughout our search process for a new minister, what impressed us most was Rev. Chris’ depth of knowledge and the way he spoke about Unitarian Universalism and issues of interest to our congregants. We felt that his manner and approach would be an excellent fit for our fellowship.”

After he signed a two-year contract as minister, the empty-nesters moved into their new home. XingQin’s son, Yang, a teenager when she and Antal married in 2023, is now in college. The couple has another home in Narberth, a suburb of Philadelphia, where since 2015 he has served at the VA hospital – now a part-time job as chaplain since starting his new ministry. XingQin, a native of China, is studying for a certified public accountant exam after a 22-year career as a financial adviser. Immigrating to the U.S., she and her son were both granted permanent U.S. residency last year.

In his time off between jobs, Antal says he enjoys cycling, hiking, paddling, yoga, beekeeping and sampling craft beers. Among his chief goals in ministry is, he says, “a passion about creating a sanctuary space that fosters spiritual health, moral engagement, and prophetic witness,” adding that he “strives to embody the values of honesty, respect, fairness, responsibility and compassion.” Among his major concerns, he says, is finding the right balance between human activity and preserving the planet.

Antal was born in 1972 near Niagara Falls, but spent most of his early years on the coast of Maine, later working as dishwasher/housekeeper in a family-run B&B. He recalls being “unaffiliated with any religion” while growing up. Antal attended college at Rhode Island School of Design and Cooper Union and earned a Master’s of Arts degree from South Korea’s Yonsei University in 2003, and a Masters of Divinity from the Unification Theological Seminary the following year.

By that time, Antal says he felt a calling to ordained ministry. He joined the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Poughkeepsie, New York and then interned at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany. He was ordained in March 2011 and hired as a contract minister by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Rock Tavern, a Hudson Valley community.

Taking a leave of absence in 2012 to deploy in Afghanistan as a U.S. Army battalion chaplain, Antal established the Kandahar Crossroad Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, where he delivered a controversial sermon on Veterans Day and was reprimanded by a general for “politically inflammatory” speech. After his release from active duty for “retraining,” Antal, who had been promoted to captain, made national headlines when he resigned his commission in a 2016 letter to President Barack Obama, who released it in redacted form. The letter read, in part, “I resign because I refuse to support the U.S. armed drone policy . . . of unaccountable killing.” He left with an honorable discharge.

The Rev. Dr. Chris J. Antal earned his doctorate at Hartford (Connecticut) International University for Religion & Peace during his return to the UU Congregation at Rock Tavern, where he had served since 2011. In 2018, he became a fulltime staff chaplain at the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia.

Antal succeeds the Rev. Sue Browning, who moved on in late June after 12 years as UUFE’s minister. Established in 1960, the UU Fellowship at Easton is a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association, which Antal describes as “a liberal religion that is welcoming to all people who covenant to live well in right relationship with people and the planet.” According to UUA’s “What We Believe” statement of faith: “We create spirituality and community beyond boundaries, working for more justice in our own lives and in the world.”

Sunday services begin at 10 a.m. at the Fellowship, 7401 Ocean Gateway (U.S. 50), Easton; uufeaston.org, 410-822-8103

 

Adkins Arboretum is pleased to present Actinic Traces, an exhibition of chlorophyll prints and phytograms by artist Laurie Beck Peterson, on view in the Arboretum’s Visitor’s Center Art Gallery from September 2 through October 31. A public reception will be held on Saturday, September 13, from 2 to 4 pm. 

Laurie Beck Peterson works in close collaboration with plants, sunlight, and time to create images that seem to levitate off their surfaces. Using the natural chemistry of leaves and the UV rays of the sun, her chlorophyll prints and phytograms capture fragile impressions of the plant 

world. Chlorophyll printing is a sustainable photographic process that replaces traditional darkroom chemicals with living leaves and sunlight. Phytograms are made by pressing plants onto light-sensitive paper or film, where their oils and moisture leave behind delicate, abstract patterns. 

The making of these works is often invisible to the eye. Exposures take place over long periods, shaped by weather and light. Development depends on the plant’s own cellular structure, and in the case of chlorophyll prints, the images continue to shift even after they are first revealed. Each work becomes a record of time and change, holding onto the subtle traces of natural processes. 

“I create images that resist permanence and precision, favoring instead ephemerality, decay, and organic authorship,” Peterson explains. “These works are not static artifacts; they are temporal surfaces, slowly fading, reminding us of our shared fragility and deep entwinement with the ecologies we often overlook.” 

For this exhibition, Peterson also explores new ways of presenting her work. Some phytograms are mounted inside clear acrylic boxes, while the chlorophyll leaf prints are displayed atop pedestals that evoke both scientific specimens and fragile jewelry. Other prints are illuminated from behind, their glowing exteriors recalling the experience of looking through a microscope into the hidden cross-sections of plants. These varied presentations highlight the dual identity of the images as both specimen and artwork, encouraging viewers to reflect on the interconnections between humans and the natural world. 

Actinic Traces highlights Peterson’s ongoing interest in impermanence, ecological awareness, and the role of natural systems in shaping images. Her work asks viewers to slow down, notice subtle changes, and see photography not as control over materials but as a partnership with the forces that sustain life. 

Laurie Beck Peterson (b. 1962) is recognized for her innovative use of 19th-century photographic processes in contemporary contexts. Her work explores themes of impermanence, ephemerality, and the natural cycles of growth and decay. Currently a faculty member at the Tyler School of Art and Architecture in Philadelphia, she has exhibited nationally and internationally, with recent highlights including her selection for the Royal Photographic Society’s International Photography Exhibition 164 at the Fox Talbot Museum, Lacock Abbey, UK. She is represented by UpStart Modern Gallery in Sausalito, California.

This exhibition is part of Adkins Arboretum’s ongoing series highlighting regional artists whose work engages with natural themes. The Arboretum is located at 12610 Eveland Road in Ridgely, Maryland. 

For gallery hours or more information, contact Adkins Arboretum at 410-634-2847, or visit adkinsarboretum.org. 

A 400-acre native garden and preserve, Adkins Arboretum provides exceptional experiences in nature to promote environmental stewardship. 

The Neighborhood Service Center invites community members, businesses, faith groups, and organizations to make a difference by contributing much-needed personal and household items for the upcoming 2025 Talbot Resource Expo, taking place Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Easton Elementary School.

The Talbot Resource Expo is more than a single day of services — it is a bridge to self-sufficiency for individuals and families in need. Each year, the Expo connects residents with vital resources such as energy assistance, health screenings, veteran services, educational programs, food distribution, and more. These services help people stabilize their immediate situations and take the next steps toward independence and long-term well-being.

The need in Talbot County is growing, particularly among seniors. Rising costs for housing, utilities, food, and healthcare mean many older adults are struggling to make ends meet — often for the first time in their lives. Families with children, single adults, and seniors alike turn to the Expo to access essentials they might otherwise go without.

How You Can Help
The Expo is seeking donations of new, unopened cleaning products, hygiene items, paper goods, and socks, including:

• Cleaning Products: Laundry detergent, bleach, all-purpose cleaner, toilet bowl cleaner, trash bags, dish detergent, dish cloths, scrubbers/sponges
• Hygiene Products: Toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, body wash, bar soap, lotion, deodorant, wash cloths, towels, baby and adult diapers, wipes
• Paper Goods: Paper towels, toilet paper
• Miscellaneous: Socks

The Talbot Resource Expo is powered by community generosity — your contribution helps create a stronger, more resilient Talbot County.

Donation Drop-off & Pick-up Options

• Drop Talbot Resource Expo donations at Neighborhood Service Center, 126 Port Street, Easton, MD
• Leave donations at one of these drop-off sites during September 2025:
  • Brookletts Place, 400 Brookletts Avenue, Easton
  • St. Michaels Community Center, 103 Railroad Avenue, St. Michaels
  • Talbot County Free Library, 100 W. Dover Street, Easton

“By donating essential items, you’re not only helping meet immediate needs, you’re empowering our neighbors to work toward stability and self-reliance,” said Cardeaner Robinson, Maryland Energy Assistance Program Director for Neighborhood Service Center. “Your support can make all the difference for a family, a senior, or an individual who just needs a helping hand to move forward.”

For more information, call Cardeaner Robinson at 410-763-6746.

A rare collection of Corvettes will grace the waterfront lawn of the Kent Island Yacht Club as an invitational class of the 18th annual St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on Chesapeake Bay. The public event is scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 28, as a ticketed event, with entrant‑only dates set for Sept. 26–28.

Featured cars include the 1957 Corvette “Sebring Racer” No. 3; 1960 Corvette “Briggs Cunningham Le Mans Racer” No. 1; 1962 Corvette “Sebring Racer” No. 5; 1968 Corvette factory L‑88 “Band‑Aid Racer” No. 12; 1968 L‑88 Corvette Sunray Oil DX‑2 Racer; and the 1969 Greenwood factory L‑88 Corvette Racer No. 49.

The Concours will also spotlight Rolls-Royce as the Grand Marque in honor of the Phantom’s centennial. A special class of De Tomaso supercars and an invitational lineup of racing Corvettes enhance the excitement. Rounding out the automotive showcase is the Winners’ Circle, featuring past best-of-show winners from other prestigious events such as Cincinnati, Greenwich, Radnor Hunt, Amelia Island, and more.

The weekend will also shine a light on Chesapeake Bay yachting, with classic motor yachts and wooden speedboats on display. Entries for the Concours d’Elegance are available online through a brief application process.

This year’s St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on Chesapeake Bay is presented by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Washington, with major sponsors including Bentley Motors, Aston Martin, Bugatti, Lamborghini, and McLaren Washington. Additional sponsors include the Schaubach Collection; Red Horse Motoring Club; Fred Frederick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Easton; Prestige Auto Vault; Preston Automotive Group; Treasured Motorcar Services; and others.

Concours Chair Luke L. Phipps says the Kent Island Yacht Club offers the ideal setting for the event, bringing together fine motoring, local flavors, scenic waterfront views, and the unique charm of the Eastern Shore.

“These cars represent not just engineering excellence but living history,” Phipps said. “Their presence elevates our entire showcase.”

“Each weekend is a celebration of craftsmanship and community,” Phipps said. “With locally sourced food, craft beverages, live music, vendors, and a festive atmosphere, it’s a complete experience for both car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.”

For entrant applications, sponsorship opportunities, tickets, and more, visit www.smcde.org.

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About St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on Chesapeake Bay

The St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on Chesapeake Bay is a prestigious automotive event taking place at the Kent Island Yacht Club. Now in its 18th year, the Concours showcases a curated collection of classic boats and elegant motorcars, providing a memorable experience for both participants and spectators. More is at www.smcde.org.