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March 26, 2023

The Chestertown Spy

An Educational News Source for Chestertown Maryland

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Archives Local Life Brevities Ecosystem Eco Portal Lead

Garnet Students Help Plant “Good Seeds” Garden

November 12, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Last week, students at Henry Highland Garnet Elementary School joined volunteers from the Chestertown Garden Club to

Garnet students plant blueberry bushes in the Good Seeds garden.

plant the Garnet Good Seeds garden. It was at the same time a break from classroom routine and a chance for hands-on experience in an exciting outdoor activity. And it gives the students a sense of ownership in a project that simultaneously beautifies the school grounds and benefits the natural environment.
The garden will be dedicated on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. at the front of the school. The short ceremony will recognize community donors, sponsors, and volunteers who helped bring the project to fruition. The public is invited to attend.
The project, launched in January by the Garden Club along with Garnet parents and teachers, is designed to enhance the school’s curb appeal, visually connect the school to nearby downtown Chestertown, and foster pride of place among students, teachers, and residents. The name of the project comes from a quote by Henry Highland Garnet, the Kent County-born abolitionist and preacher for whom the school is named: “In every man’s mind, the good seeds of liberty are planted.”

Among the native plant species now growing on the Calvert Street side of the school are persimmon, oak and magnolia trees, shrubs such chokeberry and blueberries, native grasses, and culinary and medicinal herbs. A pollinator garden will provide nourishment for bees and other helpful insects. The garden will be coordinated with the schools’ environmental literacy curriculum, offering living examples of the ideas being taught. Landscaping by Miles Barnard of South Fork Studio includes winding paths and boulders and tree stumps for seating. Two elegant wooden benches by Vico Von Voss flank the school’s main entrance, which has been enhanced by the installation of a ceramic compass rose bearing the school’s name on the sidewalk. See the photo below.

Jayla and Camari with Carolyne Grotsky, chair of Good Seeds Garden committee

Charlotte and Samiyah, kindergarten students, help with the planting. — Photo by Jane Jewell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Local businesses have donated parts of the project, as well.  Dixon Valve and Coupling donated the irrigation system, Shore Rivers sponsored a rain garden on one side of the school, and the town of Chestertown donated bricks for the sidewalk at the main entrance. The trees, which were donated by Judge Anthony of Bartlett Trees, were planted on Saturday. The Garden Club donated $5,000 to jump-start the project, and club members will maintain the plantings. All in all, it’s a real community project – exactly the kind of thing Garnet himself would have been proud of.

Students and volunteers at work in the Good Seeds garden at Garnet Elementary School

Students & volunteers help plant the Good Seeds Garden at Garnet.

Chair of the Good Seed Garden committee Carolyne Grotsky (left) leads second-grade students on a tour of the Good Seeds garden. — Photo by Peter Heck

 

Ceramic compass rose in front of the main entrance to the school will help students learn their directions.

Garden Club volunteers and Garnet parents pose for a group picture during a break from planting

Garden path along the Calvert Street side of Garnet Elementary School.

Pathways along the garden.

Becky Taylor with 2nd-grade students Calib and Grayson who planted high-bush blueberries. — Photo by Jane Jewell

Ethan LaLumia of Shore Rivers; Carolyne Grotsky, chair of the Good Seed Garden committee; Darran Tilghman, volunteer & parent of Garnet student.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photos by Jane Jewell & Peter Heck

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Filed Under: Archives, Brevities, Eco Portal Lead

“The Importance of Being Earnest” – Classic Comedy on Stage at CHT

November 7, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Lady Bracknell (Debra Ebersole) lectures the lovers, Cecily and “Ernest” on left and “Ernest” and Gwendolyn on right with Rev. Chasuble looking on.– Photo by Jane Jewell

Oscar Wilde’s irreverent comedy of manners, The Importance of Being Earnest, now playing at Church Hill Theatre, offers a tongue-in-cheek look at Victorian England. Directed by Sylvia Maloney, the play reminds us that the Victorians, who have the reputation of taking themselves far too seriously, also had an irrepressibly silly side – one that Wilde brings into delicious focus. Even the play’s subtitle, “A Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” takes a sly poke at the disconnect between the Victorians’ self-image and their tendency to elevate the minutiae of life into major social and moral crises.

Oscar Wilde in 1889 at age 35 — photo from Wikipedia

Wilde (1854-1900) was born in Dublin, the son of two Anglo-Irish intellectuals. He spoke fluent French and German at an early age and studied Classics first at Trinity College, Dublin, then at Oxford. Two of his Oxford tutors, Walter Pater and John Ruskin, introduced him to aestheticism, a movement often characterized as “art for art’s sake.” Wilde became one of the major proponents of the movement, writing poetry, essays, and journalism distinguished by their biting wit and stylistic elegance. His only novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, was written in 1890.

Wilde turned to the theater in the 1890s, producing a string of popular comedies that combined witty dialogue, polished structure and satire of the leisure classes. Earnest, written in 1895, seemed at first to be a major triumph for Wilde. However, a quarrel with the Marquess of Queensbury, whose son was Wilde’s lover, ended with Wilde’s being arrested and imprisoned for homosexuality – still a criminal offense in those days. The scandal led to the play’s original London run being closed after only 86 performances; a New York run closed after 16 nights.

However, the play survived the scandal, and over the years, it has become one of the best-known of Wilde’s writings. It has received numerous revivals since its debut, including three film versions. In 1995, one critic called it “the second most known and quoted play in English after Hamlet.”

The plot follows two young men, John Worthing and Algernon Moncrief, each of whom leads a sort of double life. Worthing has invented an imaginary brother, Earnest, who gives him an excuse to visit London when he grows tired of life in the country – and whose name he assumes during his city visits. Moncrief, for his part, has invented an invalid friend, Bunbury, whom he pretends to visit in the country when city life bores him. The audience learns this in the opening act, set in Moncrief’s London apartment. We also learn that Worthing is in love with Moncrief’s cousin, Gwendolyn Fairfax, who comes to visit with her mother, Lady Bracknell. And Moncrief learns that Worthing has a young ward, Cecily Cardew, living at his country estate.

The plot develops as Moncrief decides to visit Worthing’s country home to meet Cecily, pretending to be the imaginary brother Ernest. This leads to hilarious consequences as Worthing returns home to discover his friend’s surprise visit – but we won’t give away the plot. Go see it and find out!

Maloney has put together a talented cast that includes both Church Hill regulars and several newer faces.

Gwendolyn played by Christine Kinlock and Mr. Worthing played by Howard Mesick — Photo by Jane Jewell

Howard Messick, a familiar figure on both the Church Hill and Garfield stages, takes the role of Worthing. One of the best comic actors on the local scene, Messick is a good choice for the character, drawing on his unparalleled ability to mug. He rolls his eyes or waves a hand in exactly the right way at exactly the right moment.

John Beck, previously seen in a number of supporting roles at CHT, takes the major role of Moncrief – and does an outstanding job. He presents a veneer of sophistication that highlights Wilde’s witty dialogue, which he delivers crisply and clearly. One hopes he builds on this appearance to take on more leading roles in the future.

Christine Kinlock, another regular in local theaters and in Shore Shakespeare productions, is convincingly aristocratic as Gwendolyn, who declaims that she can only marry a man named Ernest. Fortunately, her lover is named Ernest. Or so she thinks. But Gwendolyn is always sure of what she thinks. Except when she isn’t. And she isn’t bothered by any apparent self-contradictions. She pretends to be a dutiful daughter while all the time scheming to be alone with her Ernest.  Kinlock does a great job of conveying the faux sophistication of the character.

Cavin Moore, who has been the choreographer for several CHT musicals (and who played the role of the fiddler in Fiddler on the Roof), is cast as Cecily, the young ward of Mr. Worthing. In contrast to Gwendolyn, Cecily is a country girl, who has led a sheltered life far from London. But now she is bored with her school-room studies and dreams of adventure and love. She wants an “Ernest” of her own. She shows that she can be conniving, too, in order to win at love. Moore is captivating as the naive yet clever Cecily.

The plum role of Lady Bracknell is played by CHT veteran Debra Ebersole, who truly looks the part, especially in the preposterous hat she herself designed for the character. Ebersole sails onto the stage as the pompous and self-important arbiter of society, Lady Bracknell, mother of Gwendolyn. Lady Bracknell knows everything, she’ll tell you – what everyone should wear, what they should say, and most importantly, who they should marry. Ebersole carries all this off in grand style.

Mr. Moncrieff and his aunt, Lady Bracknell; Merriman the butler in the background — Photo by Jane Jewell

Sheila Austrian is very good as Miss Prism, the stern schoolmistress with a secret in her past. Miss Prism tries to make Cecily take her studies seriously but she also has a soft heart toward her bored pupil and a soft spot for the local vicar.

The part of Rev. Canon Chasuble is played by Brian McGunigle, who took the part on short notice after the actor originally cast had to drop out of the production. McGunigle does such a convincing job that it’s hard to believe he wasn’t there from the beginning.

Sheila Austrian as Miss Prism and Brian McGunigle as Rev. Canon Chasuble — Photo by Jane Jewell

Frank St. Amour, Ronald Speedy Christopher Jr., and James Johnson do solid jobs as the servants, who, by the way, are probably the most sensible characters in the play. And you can tell that they see the silliness of their supposed “social betters.” Nicely done.

The play’s period flavor is greatly enhanced by the gorgeous Victorian costumes, created by Tina Johnson. The set – designed by Tom Rhodes and built by Rhodes, Jim Johnson, and Carmen Grasso, provides the perfect background for this comedy of manners. The scene moves from an elegant apartment in London to the beautiful, rose-covered garden of a country house.

Gwendolyn and Cecily spy on their would-be fiances — Photo by Jane Jewell

The play also shows its period in that the pace is noticeably slower than many more modern offerings. Wilde reportedly asked his actors to deliver their lines, no matter how absurd, in a completely serious tone. Modern plays might go for a little more overt clowning. Still, the wit most definitely comes through. The action is in the dialog, the witty phrasing, and the parody of a pampered upper class.

This is one of the English theater’s great comedies– and is social satire at its best. It’s to Church Hill’s credit that it has brought this classic play to the local stage. In fact, this entire Church Hill season has been unusually adventurous, ranging from period pieces like Earnest and its French contemporary A Flea in Her Ear to striking but less-familiar modern plays like the striking 33 Variations – not to forget the brilliantly-staged Jesus Christ Superstar. A season any theater company could be proud of.

The Importance of Being Earnest runs through Nov. 17, with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m Sundays. Tickets are $20 general admission; CHT members get a $5 discount, and student tickets are $10. Call the theater at 410-556-6003 or visit the CHT website http://www.churchhilltheatre.org/ for more information or to make reservations.

Photos by Jane Jewell

Cecily Cardew, Mr. Moncrief, Lady Bracknell, & Mr. Worthing — Photo by Jane Jewell

Mr. Worthing (Howard Mesick) and Mr. Moncrief (John Beck) — Photo by Jane Jewell

Mr. Worthing is not sure he approves of Mr. Moncrieff kissing his ward Cecily — Photo by Jane Jewell

Cecily and Gwendolyn — Photo by Jane Jewell

Cecily and Gwendolyn check their diaries — Photo by Jane Jewell

 

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Filed Under: Archives, Brevities, Local Life

Herz Looks to Future After Election to Chestertown Council

November 6, 2019 by Peter Heck

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New Chestertown town council members Tom Herz (Ward 2) and Meghan Efland (Ward 4) at The Retriever after the polls closed, Tues. eve, Nov 5– Photo by Jane Jewell

Chestertown Council candidate Tom Herz was with a group of supporters at the Retriever tavern on High Street when he learned that he had been elected to the Ward 2 council seat. The crowd of supporters erupted in applause when Town Clerk Jen Mulligan, after a brief tease – “Are you sure you want to hear this?” – announced the results. The crowd erupted in applause at the news that Herz had defeated two-term incumbent Councilwoman Linda Kuiper by a margin of 164 to 56, a surprisingly strong result in a race many considered a toss-up going into election day.

After learning the results, Herz thanked his opponent for “a nice clean race.” He said, “We had a conversation about ideas. It just so happened that the future prevailed and the current state lost the day.”

“It’s just amazing,” Herz said of the 35% turnout in the council-only election. He thanked his family, his campaign treasurer Liz Gross, the sign-wavers, donors, and other supporters including the Washington College Young Democratic Club and all of the voters. He ended with a thank-you to his wife Sharon for her unstinting support.

Tom Herz at The Retriever on Tues eve, Nov 5. (Jen Mulliganon right, town clerk; and Mayor Chris Cerino in background.) — Photo by Jane Jewell

Herz then turned to one of the main themes of his campaign, using the fiber-optic network to launch Chestertown and Kent County as high-tech centers, bringing in economic expansion. “Now I’d like to give you a little bit of the good news,” he said. “We’ve been working very hard at communicating a message and vision for the future. Last weekend I brought in the Ambassador-at Large for a small West African country called The Gambia. They came here and fell in love with Chestertown, Herz said. Now, there are lots of miles to go between here and there, but they want to put data centers in Chestertown. They want to come here and buy property, and host a command post – they want to do great things. Now, we don’t know if it’s all going to happen yet…. But the future is bright. And it all begins today, and it all begins because of you.” He ended with a toast to the future of Chestertown.

In a brief interview afterward, Herz credited Kuiper with running “a great campaign, filled with ideas,” but characterized her approach as “rooted in the past. I’m ready to move the town forward.” He said he would use the time between the election and his officially joining the council at the first meeting in January to work with Mayor Chris Cerino, the other council members, and the Kent County Commissioners to explore the possibilities for his vision. He specifically promised to work with Kuiper “to make sure there’s a positive handover of all her good work,” and to make sure the needs of Ward 2 residents are met. Herz also said he would focus on bringing business to town, which he said would bring young people with families, allowing the town to grow.

New council member Tom Herz with his wife Sharon Herz at The Retriever Tuesday after the polls closed. — Photo by Jane Jewell

He said he is currently working a 9-to-5 job in Washington, but it’s on a short-term contract. “But sometime in early January, I’ll be working remotely here in Chestertown, back to what I’ve always done for the last 20 years.” He said the job involves modernizing software for the Pension Guarantee corporation, which would help ensure that retirees get their pensions and benefits in a timely manner.

“We are hard after the future, we are hard after making our town great without changing its character – without changing the very nature of what makes it special,” he said. He identified that character as “community, and family values, and love for one’s neighbor. But we have to bring ingenuity here, we have to bring new people. And so we’re all going to have to work together to be accepting of different mindsets, to be accommodating to different lifestyles. At the same time, the people who come here will have to take a moment to breathe, to relax and understand who we are.”

On other major issues facing Chestertown, Herz in previous interviews has indicated that he is open-minded about the budget problems in the police department and the possibility of either eliminating the town police and/or merging with the county police. He has said that he can see advantages in combining at least partially with the county sheriff’s department especially on equipment and other resources but also worries about losing local control or being able to roll back things in the future if it doesn’t work out. He wants to study the situation and talk with all the involved parties before deciding on the issue. Last month the council voted to delay making a final decision on the police budget until March, thus giving both returning and any new members a longer time to study the situation.

Former Kent County Commissioner William Pickrum with Democratic Club members Sandy Bjork, Margie Conlin — Photo by Jane Jewell

Meghan Efland, who was elected unopposed to the Ward 4 council seat, was also present at the gathering. In a brief speech, she thanked the voters and Herz. “It’s a change in Chestertown,” she said. “I look forward for things to be growing, but in a way that we’re accepting of, that keeps the town the way we want to be. But we do need growth, and we do need to keep moving forward.” She concluded by saying she was looking forward to representing her ward on the council and to working with Herz and the current council members.

Retiring Ward 4 council representative Marty Stetson and Chestertown mayor Chris Cerino — Photo by Jane Jewell

The large crowd at The Retriever included a number of current and former elected officials, including Mayor Cerino and retiring Ward 4 Councilman Marty Stetson; Galena Mayor John Carroll; former Kent County Commissioner William Pickrum; and former Chestertown Council members Liz Gross and Sam Shoge. The Kent County Democratic Club, which endorsed both winning candidates, was also represented by several club officers as well as members of the Central Committee. In between talking about politics, many of them praised the newly reopened and refurbished bar, in the same location as the former Andy’s Tavern. And it seems a good bet that those at the election party went home happy.

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Filed Under: Archives, News Portal Highlights, Top Story

Downrigging Part II

November 6, 2019 by Peter Heck

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This past Friday through Sunday, Nov. 1-3, was Downrigging Weekend in Chestertown. The weather couldn’t have been better. And this year, two new elements– a renovated marina and a dozen bluegrass bands–were added to the festival.

The combination of tall ships and bluegrass music might not seem obvious, but it certainly worked for Downrigging! People came from far and wide to enjoy watching – or better yet, sailing on – an array of tall ships including Kalmar Nyckel, Lady Maryland, Virginia, Pride of Baltimore II, Lynx, and the host vessel, Chestertown’s own Sultana. The bluegrass side of the festival brought a dozen bands to the stage, including local favorites the High and Wides, who shared a bill Saturday night at the Garfield Center with the Dirty Grass Players from Baltimore. The musical highlight on Friday evening was the Pam Ortiz Band in a program of nautically-inspired songs.

This year for the first time, the Chestertown Marina’s upgraded facilities were able to host the entire festival. Tents on the marina property offered food and drink, and two other tents became concert halls for the bands. Attendees were also free to stroll along the docks and view the tall ships up close and personal, and to check out a fine array of wooden boats on the plaza next to the restaurant. Many people found their way to nearby Wilmer Park for an unimpeded view of the ships as they made their way downriver and back. Local businesses appealed to the festival-goers, as well – for example, the exhibit of Mark Castelli’s paintings of watermen and boats at the Massoni Gallery, or the nautical theme of the singalong at Music Life.

At the town council meeting Monday, Mayor Chris Cerino said the success of the festival can be measured by the number of attendees who patronized businesses and restaurants in town. He estimated that local businesses took in close to $100,000 over the three days of the festival. Restaurant reservations were hard to come by all weekend, and downtown parking was at a premium. But it was all worth it.

The schooner Sultana is a full-scale reproduction of an earlier Sultana. Built in Boston in 1768 for the British Royal Navy, the original Sultana sailed the coastline of Colonial America from 1768 until 1772, helping to keep the King’s law, especially the various trading agreements and tariffs. Yes, the Sultana was used to enforce the hated British “tax on tea” that helped spark the American Revolution! Now the modern Sultana sails the Chesapeake Bay, helping to educate today’s citizens about the Bay, its history and ecology, and the issues it faces.

Work on Sultana began in 1997, under the leadership of master boat builder John Swain. It was launched four years later in 2001. And since then has hosted thousands of students, teachers, as well as ordinary folk on day trips as well as week-long trips on the Chester River, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Bay’s many tributaries. The Sultana Education Foundation that operates the ship runs year-round programs that include classes, lectures, workshops, field trips, movies, and more.

Dan Menefee contributed to this story

Filed Under: Archives, Brevities

Council Approves Appointments, Hears Reports

November 5, 2019 by Peter Heck

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In an unusually brief meeting, the Chestertown Council approved two appointments, heard the Utilities Commission report, and heard from a Heron Point resident in support of retaining the town police force.

The Chestertown Council at its Nov. 4 meeting

Mayor Chris Cerino gave a brief report on the dedication ceremonies at the newly refurbished Chestertown Marina, noting the number of state cabinet members present. He also said that the Sultana Downrigging festival was a success, due to a “perfect storm” of the new marina facilities being available for the first time and the addition of a bluegrass festival to the activities. He said the downtown merchants and restaurants saw significant business because of the festival. He estimated that festival attendees spend some $100,000 in town over the weekend.

The council has scheduled a workshop meeting to discuss first-quarter budget figures. The meeting, at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 13, was scheduled at the request of council members who said they want a more detailed review of the budget than they get from the summaries provided at their regular meetings. The session is open to the public, but comments from the public will not be accepted.

The council also approved permits for the Dickens Christmas festival, Dec. 6-8. Kay MacIntosh of Main Street Chestertown said the street closures and other details are essentially the same as last year. The routes for the 5K “Run Like the Dickens” race and the carriage rides are also unchanged. She said that High Street will reopen to traffic in the evenings earlier than last year, with activities moving at 4 p.m. to the foot of the street, where there will be bonfires and refreshments. Acting Police Chief John Dolgos said his department had been consulted on the street closures and had no problems.

Town Manager Bill Ingersoll read a letter of thanks from the Chestertown Lions Club for the town’s help with the annual Hallowe’en parade, which the Lions sponsor. Ingersoll said the town police did “a heck of a job” in view of all the activities taking place over the weekend, which coincided with the Sultana Downrigging festival. Councilman Marty Stetson said the Hallowe’en parade is the best organized of all the parades in town.

By unanimous votes, the council approved the appointment of Barbara Creegan to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Kurt Smith to the Historic District Commission.

Cerino announced an Ethics Training session for 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15 in town hall. The session is open to the public.

In the Utilities Commission meeting, town Utilities Manager Bob Sipes reported that his department purchased several pieces of equipment. They included replacement parts for the ultraviolet lighting equipment at the wastewater plant, at about $6,000; a new impeller for the Radcliffe Creek station, at $8,000; and a push camera at $8,000. The camera allows utilities workers to inspect the inside of pipes for blockages or leaks. Sipes said the camera could save residents the cost of a call to Roto-Rooter.

Ernie Maher of Heron Point tells the town council his views on the town police

Sipes also reported on a water leak on Queen Street, which became evident after the street was recently repaved. Because of the repaving, he said, he doesn’t want to keep digging to find the leak. There’s not a lot of water running off, so it doesn’t present a hazard. Sipes said the utilities crew will pump out an existing hole and try to see which direction the water is coming from, using a microphone. “I was hoping that the leak would get worse,” so the source could be more easily identified, he said.

At the end of the meeting, Heron Point resident Ernie Maher addressed the council. He said that over the years, he had lived in a number of small towns and had become interested in how they operate. He said that in towns where the Mayor and Council work together with the police department, “there’s a real pride in our town.” The police become “our friends,” protecting families and being regarded as “part of the group.” He contrasted this to larger cities, where police are often perceived by residents as “the enemy.” Referring to proposals to merge the town police with the Kent County Sheriff’s office, he said, “I just think it would be a tragic loss to Chestertown to give up our own police department.”

The meeting adjourned at 7:56.

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Filed Under: Archives, News, News Portal Highlights

Ward 2 Candidates Field Questions at League Forum

October 30, 2019 by Peter Heck

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The League of Women Voters of Kent County presented the candidates for two seats on the Chestertown Council at a candidates’ forum, Tuesday night. More than 50 residents filled the upstairs room at Town Hall.

Ward 2 candidates, Linda Kuiper and Tom Herz, fielded questions from the League and from audience members. Kuiper is the incumbent. Ward 4 candidate Meghan Efland, who is running unopposed for the seat being vacated by retiring Councilman Marty Stetson, was also present to meet with voters face to face after the forum.

Following a brief introduction by League president Cece Trainor, moderator Kitty Maynard outlined the ground rules. Candidates were given two minutes apiece for opening statements, followed by three prepared questions, after which audience members were given the opportunity to present questions. The candidates alternated responses, except for a few cases where a question was addressed to a particular candidate. The entire forum lasted about 90 minutes.

Herz spoke first. “I’m running as a candidate for Ward 2 because I believe Chestertown’s future is bright,” Herz said in his opening statement. He described moving here 18 years ago to work as a webmaster for Dixon Valve, gradually expanding to become a software developer with a nationwide clientele. At the same time, he became captivated by the work-life balance he found in the community. “We have problems here; our revenue is flat and our expenses only continue to rise. But we have so many opportunities here to grow, we have so much to offer,” he said, saying he hoped to use a role in the town’s government to help make Chestertown “the jewel of Kent County.”

Kuiper was second. She began by saying, “I know pretty much everybody in the room, and I’ve been working for you for the past 8 years.” She said she is a quality and training coordinator for a locally-based company that provides services to chronically mentally ill adults in four states, a job that makes her familiar with Maryland regulations, policies and procedures. She said she uses her knowledge regularly to help constituents who feel they aren’t being listened to. “Sometimes I feel like I spend a lot of time fighting city hall,” she said, adding that she has “helped a lot of people” during her time in office. “I’m here, I’m hoping to serve you and work for you another four years.”

The first prepared question noted that the town council is considering moving some or all of its policing responsibilities to the county Sheriff’s office, and asked which of the options the candidates supported and why.

“I don’t support turning the Chestertown police department over to the county at all,” said Kuiper. She said the town police department is unique and local, and that the officers know the residents and are responsive to their needs. She said the controversy about the future of the department has already caused trouble, with some officers looking for other jobs and the part-time secretary having resigned. She said she has frequently ridden with the officers during their shifts. “I know the issues, I know the hot spots.” She said the type of police work on the county and state levels differs from what the town needs.

Herz began by thanking the police department and interim Chief John Dolgos, noting that they are “all dedicated public servants.” He said the town cannot afford any lapse in public safety, and that residents deserve the same level of treatment and response they get from the town police in case of any merger with the county. However, he said, “As a steward of your tax dollars, I think it would be irresponsible to not at least explore the various options that are on the table.” If elected, he said he would “dig into the statistics,” to get a clear idea of the services the town is providing so residents continue to get the same level of response if a merger with the county does take place.

The second League question looked at the Historic District Commission’s guidelines and the frequent complaints that the guidelines unfairly weigh on homeowners with moderate or low incomes. The candidates were asked if they support changes to allow more reasonably priced repair and maintenance work within the District.

Herz said the issue raises “a central question to my campaign,” in that communication between the town government and its residents is critical to the town’s well-being. He supports the use of modern materials to obtain a historic look, and the use of modern doors and windows for energy efficiency. However, he said, “We have to be careful,” because “the charm of our town” is dependent in part on its authentic historical architecture, which brings visitors to town and “makes them fall in love with it.” So while changes are sometimes necessary, the town also needs to protect the historical integrity of its buildings.

Kuiper said that the residents who are going to the Commission need to determine whether their home is defined as “contributing” to the District, depending on age, style, and other considerations. She said tax credits and other assistance are available to low-income residents who need to maintain historic homes. Some repairs, such as roofs, may be covered by insurance, she said.

The third League question asked how the candidates would communicate with residents, determining their needs and making them aware of their positions on issues being considered by the council.

“I’m out and about all over town,” Kuiper said, “I volunteer for a lot of organizations.” She said all her constituents know she is available at all hours, “so I have no problems communicating, no problems listening, and no problems trying to fix whatever is going on.”

Herz said, “Communication is a central part of what I’m trying to achieve.” He said many problems in town are rooted in miscommunication, either from the town or between citizens. He gave Kuiper credit for “bird-dogging issues,” but said the town needs to do more in “leveraging technology” to communicate. He said he would professionally produce a podcast and use YouTube videos to explore issues of concern to the town and correct misinformation “that spreads and causes worry.”

The floor was then opened to audience questions. Tom Timberman asked what kind of relationship the town has with the county government, and how it could be changed to better serve residents.

Herz said there are long-standing issues between the two governments, but that as a new face on the scene, he doesn’t hold grudges. He said projects succeed or fail with good communication. He gave an example of Galena contacting the county when it needed new computers and getting not only the machines but other services. He said he would work on those issues “with a forthright effort and no pre-judgment.”

Kuiper agreed about the history of disagreements between town and county, and said “I have no problem going to anybody with the county,” or to state government officials. She gave an example of working with Gov. Martin O’Malley’s office to get highway signs for the Farmers Market at considerable savings. “I don’t have problems talking with anybody,” she reiterated.

Another audience member asked whether Kuiper has gone to the county commissioners about a tax differential to benefit town residents, and Herz whether he supported the attempt to win such a differential for the town.

Kuiper said she has gone to the county meetings regularly. Herz said he supports Mayor Chris Cerino and Councilman David Foster in their work to convince the Commissioners of the need for the differential. He said he would “fight to get your tax money back,” whether as a direct refund or by finding “synergies” by which the two levels of government would work together.

Barbara Jorgenson asked Herz how many council meetings he has attended and how many volunteer hours he has contributed. Herz said he regularly attended meetings before Kuiper’s election, and that he was a member of the Chamber of Commerce for many years. “Speak to anyone who knows me,” he said, and they will testify to my commitment to the community.

Kuiper reiterated that, as the incumbent, she has been “working for you for eight years,” listing her service to constituents and accomplishments such as getting the speed limit lowered on Quaker Neck Road at the entrance to town, as well as her volunteer work with the Farmers Market, the Historical Society, and other institutions.

David Bowering asked whether Herz has attended council meetings more recently. Herz said his work makes it difficult to attend, but he regularly reads the minutes and is aware of issues facing the council. He gave examples of his public service, beginning with his work with AIDS patients while a college student.

Kuiper said her job puts her in regular contact with the mentally ill, and that she carries that dedication to the needy into her council work.

Another resident noted that the marina is not self-sustaining and asked for the candidates’ comments.

Kuiper said there is new development coming to town that should increase the tax rolls. She said the marina is beginning to pay its mortgage and expenses, but will take years to become profitable. She said she doesn’t believe that the town should own property, and that she has been working to get the council to sell off much of what it has. However, the marina cannot be sold because of the terms of the bond issue the town purchase to support it.

Herz said the marina needs to be looked at as a long-term investment, which will more than repay its cost in its benefits to the community. It will bring in visitors who will support the local economy and, in some cases, fall in love with the town and buy homes and start businesses here. In 20 years, it will have been “cheap at twice the purchase price.” Selling it off, even if possible, would be a serious mistake.

Jeff Weber asked how the candidates would bring 21st-Century technology to town.

Herz said Chestertown is one of the few communities in the nation with the opportunities to exploit high-tech. He noted that there is 110 miles of “lit fiber” in the county, which will bring people from outside to live here and create businesses. He said the town needs to work with the county and with Washington College to exploit the potential, but he said the potential is there for the town to become “Silicon Valley East.”

Kuiper said the county commissioners “dropped the ball” on bringing in high-tech businesses several years ago. She said she supported the drive for a tax differential but hoped the county wouldn’t claim the fiber network was sufficient compensation for the lack of a tax differential. She said there is progress in improving cell service in town.

Gibson Anthony said the “last mile” connections remain a problem with communications, largely because the providers seek to monetize it. He asked how the candidates would address those problems.

Kuiper frankly said she didn’t know. She said she had attended meetings at the county where the issues were discussed. “I’m just disappointed” about the slow progress in connecting the town, she said.

Herz said the last mile is always problematic. He noted problems with wi-fi connections in the downtown area and said he is working with county information technology director Scott Boone to find answers. He said things were improving, and that they would improve faster if businesses and residents organize to pressure the providers for solutions.

Another resident asked about attracting young people to the community. Herz said it was a large reason why he was running. He said he knew several young people who had moved here from nearby cities, starting businesses and raising families. He said that communicating the town’s benefits was the key. “The future is bright, but we need to shine our light” to let people know about it, he said.

Kuiper said the lack of nightlife is a problem. Businesses close early, and people used to city life find the town dull. She said she hoped that new businesses such as Zelda’s speakeasy and the bar replacing J.R.’s would help fill that gap.

Bowering asked whether the candidates support a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) from the college, to compensate for its large volume of tax-exempt property.

Kuiper said she opposes a PILOT program. The college had a good deal of property already on the tax rolls, she said. She said the college is an integral part of the community, often providing first jobs for locals in addition to its educational mission. She also noted that the college is having its own financial issues and has in the past declined to make a PILOT.

Herz said he supports a PILOT payment – “Washington College doesn’t pay enough,” he said. He said he would also work to get the college to partner with the town more to create “centers of excellence” to help build business and attract new young residents.

Jim Bogden asked if the candidates would support projects such as the large solar energy farm proposed for a property on Morgnec Road just outside town.

Kuiper said the property in question is under county jurisdiction, though the town has talked about annexing it at various points. She said the county has fought to exclude other such large projects, and that it has become “a target” for such proposal by outside entities. She said both the town of Chestertown and the county government have solar arrays to provide some of their energy, but that she opposes industrial-scale arrays.

Herz said he supports green energy. He said that property used for that purpose “isn’t lost forever,” but can be returned to agricultural or other use. He said the community can be leaders in green energy – “it’s the responsible thing to do.”

Another resident asked the candidates for assurance they wouldn’t raise property taxes.

Herz said he would do anything he could to avoid it. He noted that Chestertown has one of the lowest tax rates of any town on the Shore, so while he hopes he could delay any tax increase, “I can’t promise I won’t (raise taxes).”

Kuiper said she had worked to get the council more informed on the budget. She said there is an open budget meeting scheduled for Nov. 16 and asked residents to attend. She said she would vote to raise taxes if analysis of the budget showed it was unavoidable.

In closing statements, Kuiper repeated her theme that she has worked for her constituents for eight years and “I have seen a lot, heard a lot and done a lot. I thrive on it,” she said. “You know me, you know what I’ve done.” She also commented on the critical place of Washington College in the community, listing the benefits it brings to residents. “I’ve really enjoyed the last eight years and I’d like to enjoy four more,” she concluded.

After thanking his supporters, Herz said, “The future of Chestertown is bright, but we have to go after it.” He said it’s not about rehashing the past, but taking the opportunities currently available and continuing to move forward “in a way that enriches our whole community.” He said the town needs to work with local professionals to take advantage of its resources and bring young people here to build businesses and drive economic development.

The council election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Polls at the Chestertown Volunteer Fire Company will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. All registered voters in Wards 2 and 4 are eligible to vote. For more information, call town hall (410-778-0500) or visit the town website.

Stay tuned to the Chestertown Spy for more pre- and post-election coverage.

Dan Menefee contributed to this story

Filed Under: Archives, News, News Portal Highlights

Former Councilman Gatto Calls on Council to Seek Outside Advice of Future of Policing

October 28, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Former Chestertown Councilman Jim Gatto

Former Chestertown councilman Jim Gatto appeared at the Oct. 21 council meeting to suggest a way for the town to reach a decision on the future of the police department, which has been the subject of some controversy since the resignation of former chief Adrian Baker.

Gatto, who appeared at the end of the meeting, recommended that the town work with the Institute for Governmental Service and Research, a University of Maryland program that provides research and advisory service to governments and community organizations. Gatto said he used the Institute’s services regularly when he was working. He said the Institute would be an ideal resource for the task force Mayor Chris Cerino has proposed to explore the options facing the town.

At the Oct. 7 council meeting, the council voted to leave interim Chief John Dolgos in place until February 2020, at which point one or two new council members will be in place. Options to be explored run the range from leaving the police department essentially unchanged to partnering in some way with the Kent County Sheriff’s office to eliminating the town police altogether. The issue arose in light of the high cost of the department as currently constituted, roughly 47% of the town’s annual budget at $1.6 million. A decision on a new permanent chief was also put off until that date. Dolgos has applied for the permanent appointment.

Gatto described the Institute as “a perfect professional organization to assist” in the study of the future of the town police. “They are made up of professors and grad students at the University of Maryland, so the cost is minimal,” he said. He said it would be well worth the investment considering the critical role of the police in the town’s culture.

Gatto also offered some background on the police budget, dating from his service with a commission exploring the need for a new police station several years ago. He said he rode in the back seat of a police car and listened to Sheriff John Price and Chief Baker as they drove to visit police facilities in other communities around the state. Among the topics of their conversation was the opioid epidemic and how local law enforcement would respond to it. He said the goal at the time was to upgrade the local police force to a 24-7 operation, with two officers on duty at any given time. He said the cost was expected to level off, but that was before the long-term impact of the Great Recession became apparent with the loss of tax revenue to local government, both on the county and town level. “So we got hit at the same time we’re trying to beef up our security,” he said. He noted that the county had experienced seven overdoses in October, adding that the cost of drug addiction to the community also includes crimes committed by addicts trying to support their habits.

At one point, Gatto said, the town was considering building a joint facility for the town police and the Sheriff’s office, sharing equipment and space to save on the cost for both. That idea was dropped when the building at 600 High Street became available at a “very inexpensive” cost and the town purchased it for its new police headquarters. But the “collapse” of the local real estate market to recover from the recession as quickly as other parts of the state has left the town looking for the resources to fund the police budget along with other programs and services. Local realtors are anticipating an upturn, he said, but it will take time.

“The police do an exceptional amount of work,” Gatto said, noting that officers respond to about 35 calls a day on average. He cited a personal experience involving a home invasion where two officers responded to his call at 2 a.m. and took “an extreme amount of care” to handle “an individual who was off his meds” and threatening to harm Gatto and his wife. “That could have been totally different if there was only one officer,” he said.

Gatto said the police chief’s monthly report would be a good opportunity for the council to ask questions on such subjects as how the police are prepared for situations such as an active shooter at one of the public schools or at Washington College. “You guys should know that,” he said. “We do have a plan for that,” he added. He gave other examples such as how the police interact with senior citizens, or how they patrol recently annexed communities. “These are questions that should be coming from you to the police chief, to give him directions on where to go,” he said. “Our crime situation has been fairly level,” Gatto said, suggesting that the council should invite comparisons to other towns when looking into questions such as the amount of police overtime.

He concluded by urging the council to take its time to explore solutions to the police issues, as long as a year if necessary. “There are opportunities for us, with good professional help, to come up with a good positive solution.” He reiterated his recommendation that the town consults the Institute for Governmental Service and Research.

Cerino said a major point to note is the difference between the tax rates of Chestertown and other Shore communities, many of which are at $0.70 per $100 assessed value compared to Chestertown’s $0.43. Others have significant tax differential support from their counties, which he said he is not optimistic about obtaining from the Kent County commissioners. “We jacked up the price, but we didn’t have the tax revenues to match the buildup, and now we’re kind of stuck in the middle,” he said.

Gatto said that a contributing factor was the town’s raising the salary rate for officers to compete with other localities, so it didn’t lose officers to nearby towns after paying for their training.

Town Manager Bill Ingersoll added that the town’s adoption of LEOPS pension plan for its officers, which is as much as 38% of their salaries. “I think LEOPS single-handedly crushed the budget,” he said.

Also at the meeting, the council appointed Connie Schroth to the Tree Committee and John Hutchinson to the Planning Commission. Cerino nominated Kurt Smith to the Historic District Commission. And the council approved a letter of support for the Kent County Historical Society in a grant application for the Maryland Historical Trust.

Filed Under: Archives, News, News Notes

Local Nerds in the Shark Tank! This Sunday, Oct. 27, 9:00 P.M.

October 26, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Markevis Gideon, Founder & Managing Director of NERDiT NOW (on left) and his business partner Jake Voorhees are ready for their Shark Tank appearance on television this coming Sunday, Oct 27 at 9 pm on ABC.

Local Kent County resident Jake Voorhees is a self-described techno-geek who has definitely embraced his inner-nerd. And he’s very proud of it – with good cause! A few years ago, he joined a fellow nerd, Markevis Gideon, in a new business called NERDiT NOW which repairs cell phones and other electronic/computer items. In business now for four years, the company has grown rapidly. They have opened a shop in Wilmington and also have a high-tech repair van.

And now they will pitch their expansion plan to a panel of investors on the popular TV show Shark Tank. The episode will air this Sunday, Oct. 27, on ABC at 9:00 p.m. Eastern time. After Sunday, you should be able to stream it online at ABC.com or on Hulu.com.

The Shark Tank appearance is a real coup for the Wilmington-based NERDiT NOW team, putting their business plan before not only the show’s panel of experts (the sharks!) but giving investors all over the country a look at the company’s product.

In a phone interview with the Chestertown Spy, Voorhees said  the company’s plan is to set up a series of kiosks in parking lots around the city, with a mobile repair center in a re-purposed ambulance visiting each kiosk to pick up and service phones the customers have left for repair. Many phones, he said, can be repaired in as little as 15 minutes. NERDiT NOW can get most repairs back to the owner in four to six hours. Most can be fixed right in the ambulance, which has a complete repair shop inside.

The NERDiT NOW repair van has a complete repair shop inside where their technicians can often repair your phone in as little as 15 minutes!

NERDiT NOW repairs computers, tablets, and game consoles as well as phones. They also purchase and refurbish then resell old unwanted items. The store is located at 1614 W. Newport Pike in Wilmington, Delaware. For store hours and more details, visit the NERDiT NOW website.

Voorhees, a Kent County native and graduate of Kent County High School, attended the University of Delaware, where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering in 2009. As luck would have it, he graduated just as the Great Recession and the accompanying housing crisis were in full swing. Still, he found work – first in Madison, Wisc., then in Chicago, and finally in Vancouver, Canada. There, he found himself getting involved in a sideline of drone videos – producing aerial videos of weddings, real estate, and other events. Then, two and a half years ago, he returned to the East Coast, where he connected with Gideon, who was looking for a partner for his company.

A Wilmington native, Gideon had gotten into computers at age 12 when a middle school teacher gave him an old computer to take home to experiment with. He went on to major in Computer Science at Widener College and spent five years in China working with computers – and running an American-style restaurant. He came home four years ago and started his own company in a spare room of his house. The company quickly caught on – and it’s grown to a quarter-million dollars in sales. The next step, if all goes well, is to expand – and possibly develop the business into a nationwide franchise, with kiosks and mobile repair centers in cities all across the country.

These two young entrepreneurs have a wider vision than just running a successful business. As Voorhees put it, they want to give back to the communities which have helped them so much. With that mission in mind, the NERDiT Foundation was started. Every year the foundation has donated over 100 refurbished computers to community centers and other nonprofits in under-served neighborhoods. They are committed to helping others as they also help the environment by repairing old and broken electronic items rather than having them end up in landfills. They want to do good not just well.

And now they have a chance to get a big boost for their plans from the Shark Tank competition. Will they win? Will they get the funding they need to take their business to the next level? Watch Shark Tank Sunday and find out! Keep your fingers crossed for the local boys to make good!

The NERDiT NOW Team in blue shirts with one of the judges from Shark Tank- (l-R) Jake Voorhees, Markevis Gideon, Founder & Managing Director, unnamed Shark Tank judge, and Jonathan Hoxter,  Financial Officer

Filed Under: Archives, Commerce, Commerce Homepage, Top Story

Council Approves New Farmers Market Manager

October 23, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Julia King is the new manager of the Chestertown Farmers Market.

Julia KIng, new manager of the Chestertown Farmers Market

Councilwoman Linda Kuiper introduced King at the town council meeting Oct. 21. King, who works at her brother’s mushroom farm in Barclay, said she has been going to farmers’ markets for about five years and has been regularly at the mushroom booth in the Chestertown market for the last year. She also works for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency, which administers programs including loans, credit, conservation, and disaster relief for farmers.

King was the only applicant for the position. The council approved the appointment unanimously.

“I’ve always been involved in the ag community, ever since I was little,” King told the council. She helped her brother establish his business, King Mushrooms, which involves taking the product to about 20 farmers’ markets around the state and region. “So I have quite a lot of experience dealing with farmers’ markets, and vendors, and market managers. We’ve always done Chestertown Farmers Market – I think it’s a very good market, and I think it has done very well for itself.” She said she thought the only thing the market needs is “a little bit of leadership right now.” She said she thought the transition would be easy once she starts working.

King added in an email on Oct 23, “I was a member of 4-H from ages 8-18 and during high school/college I worked at Godfrey’s Farm in Sudlersville. I am originally from Church Hill but I live in Centreville now. I graduated from the University of Maryland and now work for the Department of Agriculture.”

She added, “Chestertown Farmers Market is very fortunate to have producers grow a diverse array of products in various ways (regenerative, organic, conventional, etc) that are beneficial to the local economy and the customers. People that come to the market are able to buy food that supports the local economy, have a better understanding of where their food comes from, and participate in an event that brings the community together. I believe that my job as market manager is to continue to ensure that both vendors’ and customers’ needs are being met through leadership and organization. By communicating well with vendors, customers, and the town, I think that the market will continue to be the success that is today.”

Councilman David Foster praised her brother’s mushrooms. “I hope you know what you’re getting into,” he said. “Yes, I’m very aware of what I’m getting into,” King replied with a smile.

Councilman Marty Stetson asked if King had been at the market the last two Saturdays when the vendors have worked both sides of High Street and Park Row instead of setting up on the Fountain Park grass. He asked what she thought of the new setup.

King said that the new setup is “a little inconvenient” for some of the vendors who were used to having a specific spot in the park every Saturday, but she thought it would work to get the grass established. “I just think it needs a little cooperation from all sides, but I think it can be successful.” She said it might be worth trying to set up vendors on all sides of the park instead of on both sides of the two streets. “I think you have enough vendors” to set up all around the outside of the park, she said. Another advantage of that setup would be to open up parking for customers on the other side of Park Row form the park, she said.

Town Manager Bill Ingersoll said he hoped the new configuration would work out for everyone, including local merchants. He said he had received no complaints at this point. “I’ve got my fingers crossed,” he said.

New grass planted at Fountain Park

Wanda Gorman, manager of the artisans’ market, said the overall consensus of her vendors was that they loved being on both sides of High Street. Customers’ reaction was also positive, she said. “I guess I never realized how narrow those sidewalks (in the park) were,” she said. In the new setup, customers have room to spread out and to stand and look at displays without blocking others from getting past, she said. She also praised the town police for doing a good job in closing the streets, noting that they were done well before she comes to the market – “and I get there very early.” She said the new setup “is like a street fair, every Saturday.”

Kuiper also called up the issue of the Farmers Market’s GoFundMe account, created by former market manager Sabine Harvey to help support the market’s program of accepting WIC and SNAP payments for market goods. She said the account currently sits at just over $800. The market received a $2,000 Maryland Markets grant early this year to support the program. “We went through that in nothing flat,” she said. She said the market could apply for another grant next year. She asked the town to match the $2,000 already granted from the vendors’ fees at the market, which have totaled $14,500 so far this year.

King said she would apply for the grant next year. Maryland Markets also supplies training for running the program, she said.

Cerino suggested that the town match the amount donated to the GoFundMe account, up to $2,000. “That lets the public step up” to support the program, he said.

Stetson objected to allocating tax dollars to a charity, as he characterized the SNAP and WIC programs. He said the vendors’ fees from the market were designated for maintenance of Fountain Park.

Kuiper said the fees are not tax dollars, but “come out of the vendors’ pockets.” She said the budget estimated the fees at $10,000 at the beginning of the year, so there is $4,500 more than anticipated. Ingersoll confirmed that $10,000 would be adequate for maintaining the park.

Kuiper said that if the market remained on the two adjacent streets instead of in the park proper, the farmers and artisans would not be responsible for damage to the grass. Foster moved to make a matching contribution, up to $2,000, to the GoFundMe account. The motion passed by a 3-1 vote, with Stetson opposed and Kuiper abstaining because of her connection to the market.

There was also some discussion of whether the new Farmers Market configuration with booths on High Street would affect the upcoming Halloween and Christmas parades. Kay MacIntosh of Main Street Chestertown said there should be enough room for the parades to come through, although she said it would be good to move the reviewing stand to the 200 block of High Street, where it usually sits for the Tea Party parade. Police Chief John Dolgos indicated from the audience that the police would have no problem with the arrangement.

Also at the meeting, Dolgos delivered the monthly police report; a group received permits for a “Sober October” event in Fountain Park, and former councilman Jim Gatto addressed the council on the future of the police department. Look for coverage of these issues in a future Chestertown Spy report.

Filed Under: Archives, News

Washington College Cuts Ribbon for New Environmental Center

October 22, 2019 by Peter Heck

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Ribbon-cutting officially opens the Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall at Washington College on Sept.18, 2019. L-R Peter Franchot, Md. Comptroller; Kurt Landgraf, Washington College president; Truman Semans; Jay Griswold; Larry Culp, WC Board; John Seidel. WC professor of  anthropology — Photo by Peter Heck

Architect’s rendering of Washington College’s new Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall on the Chester River. Note the 300-solar panel array on the rooftop.

Washington College opened the new Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall Friday, Oct. 18 with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and a public tour of the new riverside facility. The weather was beautiful.

With guests including Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot, the ceremonies drew a standing-room only crowd to a large tent on the lawn between the college’s new boathouse and the building being dedicated.

College President Kurt Landgraf greeted the audience, calling the occasion “a historic moment for Washington College.” He welcomed Franchot and thanked the state of Maryland for its support for the project. The state provided $4 million toward the new center. He also recognized Lawrence Culp, former chairman of the college’s Board of Visitors and Governors, for his leadership in the fundraising campaign for the building. As chair of the fundraising committee for the new center, Culp helped to raise $11.5 million in just six months.

“With great optimism and foresight, College leaders identified the perfect spot for the center’s waterfront home, right here—a former brownfields site where a fertilizer plant and a fuel depot once stood,” Landgraf said. “The College’s decision to rehabilitate this land and to design a low-impact building that would rely solely on renewable energy sources speaks volumes about the institutional commitment to environmental conservation and the values of responsible citizenship we hope to impart to our students.”

Franchot then took the podium. He gave commemorative medals to Culp, Prof. John Seidel, director of the Center for Environment and Society, and to Truman Semans and Jay Griswold, the two men for whom the new building is named. The medals continue a tradition begun by former Comptroller Louis Goldstein, a graduate and strong supporter of Washington College. Noting the educational purpose of the new building, Franchot said he looks forward to a new generation of leaders who advocate for the environment.

John Seidel, WC anthropology professor and director of the Center for Environment and Society. — Photo by Jane Jewell

Seidel gave a brief history of the project, saying he and Bryan Matthews had proposed a waterfront campus 11 years ago. While the project took time to complete, the final stage of actually building it took less than a year. He said the environmental center would be “a game-changer” for recruiting new students, adding a new dimension to the college’s already strong assets of its location on the Eastern Shore and the Chester River. With this new building, Seidel said, Washington College is on the threshold of becoming “the best small college in the country” in terms of its environmental studies program. He noted the building’s “truly sustainable” design as a clear statement of the college’s commitment to the health of the environment.

The college chose a design that meets the Living Buildings Challenges standard, with a focus on connecting the people who occupy it with the natural environment. The layout, with large windows giving a spectacular view of the river and adjacent wetlands, makes the most of natural lighting. And with 300 solar panels on the roof, the building is expected to generate 105% of its annual energy needs, saving the college some $19,000 annually on electrical bills. This is especially impressive given the high energy demands of science laboratories, Seidel said. He looked to the future of the environmental program, saying that the new building would create “a critical mass here on the water” to give the college an even more powerful commitment to protecting the natural setting.

Larry Culp, former chair of Washington College’s Board of Visitors and Governors,

Culp took the podium to note the long list of those who contributed to the project, noting that neither Semans nor Griswold had wanted their names on the building. “Sorry!” he said, to laughter from the audience. But, he noted, the two men had made long-term commitments to the college and its mission, making it “so fitting” to name the building for them.

Landgraf then recognized the two men with special awards. He presented Griswold with a Lifetime Achievement Award in Conservation, recognizing his role in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Living Classrooms program. Griswold was on the WC board for years and then served as the interim president of Washington College during the 2014-2015 school year while the board searched for a new president for the college.  Griswold, Landgraf said, has been “an outspoken critic of misguided proposals” such as the plan to build an industrial-scale wind farm in Kent County. Griswold responded with a warm narrative of how he was recruited to the college’s board by Semans, Goldstein, and others.  Being on the college’s board, he said, has been a wonderful and “eye-opening experience.” He concluded by repeating Goldstein’s signature line, “God bless you all real good.”

Truman Semans (center) receiving an honorary doctorate from WC President Kurt Landgraf with Comptroller Franchot behind. — Photo by Jane Jewell

Semans was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Public Service, the college’s highest honor. Landgraf noted Semans’ role in founding the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, making him a “living figure of environmental stewardship.” Semans said he was humbled to receive the degree. He thanked some of those who helped him along the way, including Griswold and his brother, Culp, Clinton Daly, and Dr. Harry Sears. He said he would strive to live up to the honor, and wished the college continued success.

A ribbon-cutting concluded the formal ceremonies, after which the public was invited to visit the building and partake of light refreshments.  Once inside, it becomes clear what a masterpiece of modern “green” engineering and artistic design the new Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall is.  There are classrooms, offices, labs, and conference rooms in a very inviting and open 11,500 square foot floorplan. Several entire walls of windows provide marvelous views of the river and wetlands.  More than one visitor was overheard to say that they’d have trouble getting any work done due to being distracted by the wonderful views!  This is a great step forward for the college’s expanding biology and environmental programs.

Washington College President Kurt Landgraf at the dedication of the new Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall, 18 October 2019 — Photo by Jane Jewell

 

 

Washington College’s new Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall on the Chester River.

 

 

 

 

 

Engraved bowl presented to Jack “Jay” Griswold as the first recipient of the Truman Semans Lifetime Achievement in Conservation.  —  Photo by Jane Jewell with some handy assistance from professor emeritus of chemistry Frank Creegan

Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall sign near the main entrance — Photo by Jane Jewell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Archives, News, News Notes, News Portal Highlights

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