June 28th~~
My first "story" published other then the column! I had to overcome alot of self-doubt on this one, and move way out of my comfort zone...how else can you grow?
Move Over, Grandma Moses
Dot Truitt’s eyes sparkled as she leaned over and whispered conspiratorially, "We are both artists, you know. It’s never too late to create. And Bob, here, didn’t start til he was 70."
I met Dot Truitt and her husband Bob at the retail store I work in. When our business was finished, they stayed to chat. Dot, a slim, energetic woman of 71, did most of the talking. "What type of art, ?" I queried, and thus began a story I knew I had to share.
"Wait, I’ll show you" she said, and ran out to her car. She came back with a bag of beautiful clay bracelets, each a circle of brilliant color and hand-painted design. She looked fondly over at her husband, Bob. "He does handmade pottery mirrors. "She explained. She went on to say that she had started 16 years earlier, in her mid fifties. Wow, I thought. So many people at age 50 plus think it’s rocking chair time, but not these two.
She was the typical stay at home Mom, and though she always wanted to create, caring for her family took priority. When her daughter graduated high school , she seized the opportunity to finally follow her artistic vision. Laughing, she explained to me that she did it all wrong. "I bought a huge kiln and a couple of books." She went on to tell me that doing it all wrong meant she did it all right, because her trial and error helped her perfect a unique kiln-firing method that produced brilliant, yet translucent colors.
I asked her where she first showed her work. She laughed again, and explained that her first showing was in the National Museum of Ceramic Art, in downtown Baltimore. " I had been selected for jury duty," she mused, "and in those days, it meant calling the courthouse at 6pm the day before, and then high-tailing it to Baltimore to stay in a hotel that night." She happened to wear one of her pendants, and while visiting the museum, they asked her on the spot to display in their gift shop. She now shows her work in various craft shows in the area. Her next big show is in Lewes on July 9th, sponsored by the Lewes Historical Society.
Bob was a little more reserved about his art. A native eastern shoreman, he joked about "outsiders", and once I confessed to the sin of being one, he relented and told me, "I don’t think of myself as an artist, more of a craftsman. Dot makes the designs for my work, I just put it all together." Regardless of what he thinks, I saw an example of his work, and it’s striking.
Move over, Grandma Moses. Go ahead, pull out those dusty paint brushes, rework that old manuscript, learn that guitar. In Dot Truitt’s words, "It’s never too late to create."
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
June 28th~~
This was a tough one to cover on time~
Social Column 16
The forecast is perfect. Sunny and warm, with only a few scattered clouds to accentuate the blue sky above. Uh-oh. Those fluffy white clouds have turned to a leaden gray, and the rain is pouring down. What to do when the weather is awful ? Shop, of course....and I once again reach to the treasure chest of downtown Berlin for a unique Delmarva experience.
I have to say it~ I don't love Wal-mart, and J. C. Penny's leaves me cold. It's just too bland and repetitive for my taste.
You won't find that experience in downtown Berlin. It's Christmas morning for the weary chain-store shopper. I meandered through the streets, looking in windows and stopping at whim. My eye was caught by a little table with soap bubbles set up outside The J.J. Fish Studio and Fine Crafts Gallery, owned by John and Judy Fisher. What a cool place! They make bubble carafe's with silver blowers for grown-ups, though sharing with kids is allowed. Their marble pendants really caught my imagination. You can either choose from hand-blown marbles or use your own heirloom sphere, that's showcased in a handcrafted silver cage, and hung on a silky cord. John calls art "The one constant in my life." It shows, because John and Judy have a spectacular array contemporary handmade jewelry and crafts for sale.
My next stop was Victorian Charm. If you ever see older ladies donning outrageous red hats, they probably purchased them here. "Red Hatters" have made the shop a word-of-mouth phenomenon. The collection includes everything from red hats to red boas to pins, books, and the companion colored purple clothing. Owner Debbie Frene was modest about her successful 11 years of business, and attributes a fair share of it to people who come in to visit with Josh, her Maltese dog.
Bruder Hill calls itself the "Land of Ahhs." I agree. Owners Di Hill and Shelly Bruder weren't in, but the store was staffed by Pat Cavin, who told me "We have customers from all over the country, as well as a loyal local following." Ladies, it's hip, whimsical, and fun. Neat little sandals, one of a kind funky jewelry, and clothes that scream "made for soft sea breezes and special occasions.".
Last but not least, I stopped into the Main Street Gift Gallery. Owners Peggy and Les Katona were both working, and took the time to show me their lovely gallery of local art and gourmet delicacies. I especially loved her hand-painted bamboo walking sticks, and the selection of Chesapeake style gourmet goodies.
To the other fine shopkeepers downtown, I can't wait to discover you, too. A special thanks this week to the Simms Family, owners of The Berlin Auto-Wash. They not only gave me an incredible deal for an antique desk I purchased at their garage sale, but refused a counter offer for double the price, loaded it up for me, and threw in a lamp. Guess there still ARE honorable people in the world. See you next week!
This was a tough one to cover on time~
Social Column 16
The forecast is perfect. Sunny and warm, with only a few scattered clouds to accentuate the blue sky above. Uh-oh. Those fluffy white clouds have turned to a leaden gray, and the rain is pouring down. What to do when the weather is awful ? Shop, of course....and I once again reach to the treasure chest of downtown Berlin for a unique Delmarva experience.
I have to say it~ I don't love Wal-mart, and J. C. Penny's leaves me cold. It's just too bland and repetitive for my taste.
You won't find that experience in downtown Berlin. It's Christmas morning for the weary chain-store shopper. I meandered through the streets, looking in windows and stopping at whim. My eye was caught by a little table with soap bubbles set up outside The J.J. Fish Studio and Fine Crafts Gallery, owned by John and Judy Fisher. What a cool place! They make bubble carafe's with silver blowers for grown-ups, though sharing with kids is allowed. Their marble pendants really caught my imagination. You can either choose from hand-blown marbles or use your own heirloom sphere, that's showcased in a handcrafted silver cage, and hung on a silky cord. John calls art "The one constant in my life." It shows, because John and Judy have a spectacular array contemporary handmade jewelry and crafts for sale.
My next stop was Victorian Charm. If you ever see older ladies donning outrageous red hats, they probably purchased them here. "Red Hatters" have made the shop a word-of-mouth phenomenon. The collection includes everything from red hats to red boas to pins, books, and the companion colored purple clothing. Owner Debbie Frene was modest about her successful 11 years of business, and attributes a fair share of it to people who come in to visit with Josh, her Maltese dog.
Bruder Hill calls itself the "Land of Ahhs." I agree. Owners Di Hill and Shelly Bruder weren't in, but the store was staffed by Pat Cavin, who told me "We have customers from all over the country, as well as a loyal local following." Ladies, it's hip, whimsical, and fun. Neat little sandals, one of a kind funky jewelry, and clothes that scream "made for soft sea breezes and special occasions.".
Last but not least, I stopped into the Main Street Gift Gallery. Owners Peggy and Les Katona were both working, and took the time to show me their lovely gallery of local art and gourmet delicacies. I especially loved her hand-painted bamboo walking sticks, and the selection of Chesapeake style gourmet goodies.
To the other fine shopkeepers downtown, I can't wait to discover you, too. A special thanks this week to the Simms Family, owners of The Berlin Auto-Wash. They not only gave me an incredible deal for an antique desk I purchased at their garage sale, but refused a counter offer for double the price, loaded it up for me, and threw in a lamp. Guess there still ARE honorable people in the world. See you next week!
Thursday, June 23, 2005
June 23..
anyway..here it is...number 15? or is it 14?
Social Column 15
Summer has a way of heating things up. Scents are spicier, colors more vibrant, and there is more daylight to enjoy it all. Apparently, this column is in full summer swing, because there is so much to do, I can barely fit it all in.
Have any of you heard that Delmarva has a comedy club? One of my clients at work told my co-worker, Suzanne, and I about a great place to go and laugh ourselves silly. It sounded like the perfect antidote to a full day of retail sales, and we decided to go. The Bottle Factory is located in Salisbury, off of business Route 13. Saturday night the bar transforms itself into " The Comedy Zone." We queued up and paid our 8 dollar admission for the 9pm show, and sat and had cocktails and snacks while we waited for the show to begin. (try Al's famous crab dip when you go). Andy Hendrickson was first up onstage. Young, sarcastic, and acerbic, Andy's dark humor speared all in it's path, from his college days to Chinese takeout.
Headliner Big Ed Caylor hails from The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, and in his soft, Southern drawl, said, "nothing is sacred up here."
His uproarious take on marriage, parenthood, dating and weight loss was hilarious. Between the two comedians, I joyfully submitted to that state of laughing you rarely carry into adulthood....flat out side-bursting, tear running giggles. I give "The Comedy Zone" a thumbs up for great entertainment at less than the cost of a movie. For upcoming shows and directions, call (410) 749-9669.
The night was not over, however. Fager's Island, in Ocean City, has long been a landmark for great food and music. I was fortunate enough to have dinner there this past winter, and was enchanted by the elegant ambiance and delicious food. I was curious to see how the onslaught of vacationers impacted Fager's. Yikes! I never saw so many gyrating bodies in my life. If you like non-stop music and have no problem with scantily clad people within a foot radius, by all means go. If you are a student of sociology and want to observe the dating rituals of young humans, it's a must. If you are like me, however, a nightcap at home, or a walk on the beach might be a better way to end the evening.
I rounded off the weekend with a trip to "Art in the Park.", held at Northside Park. I had never been to the park before, and loved the view of the bay, the long dock, and the paved walkways, perfect for strolling or biking. It was chilly with a whipping wind, yet the caliber of art displayed made for a worthwhile outing. I was particularly impressed by the jewelry of Ron Haritan, of Gambrills, Md. With a background in stained glass, his fused glass jewelry designs are light-catching works of art. I couldn't resist, and am the proud owner of a stunning pair of earrings in iridescent blue. I will be watching for his return, and let you know so you can enjoy his work, too.
That raps it up for this week. I hope all you Dad's out there had a wonderful Father's Day. Special hugs to my Dad, George. You weren't with us for very long, but your love has lasted a lifetime. See you next week!
anyway..here it is...number 15? or is it 14?
Social Column 15
Summer has a way of heating things up. Scents are spicier, colors more vibrant, and there is more daylight to enjoy it all. Apparently, this column is in full summer swing, because there is so much to do, I can barely fit it all in.
Have any of you heard that Delmarva has a comedy club? One of my clients at work told my co-worker, Suzanne, and I about a great place to go and laugh ourselves silly. It sounded like the perfect antidote to a full day of retail sales, and we decided to go. The Bottle Factory is located in Salisbury, off of business Route 13. Saturday night the bar transforms itself into " The Comedy Zone." We queued up and paid our 8 dollar admission for the 9pm show, and sat and had cocktails and snacks while we waited for the show to begin. (try Al's famous crab dip when you go). Andy Hendrickson was first up onstage. Young, sarcastic, and acerbic, Andy's dark humor speared all in it's path, from his college days to Chinese takeout.
Headliner Big Ed Caylor hails from The Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, and in his soft, Southern drawl, said, "nothing is sacred up here."
His uproarious take on marriage, parenthood, dating and weight loss was hilarious. Between the two comedians, I joyfully submitted to that state of laughing you rarely carry into adulthood....flat out side-bursting, tear running giggles. I give "The Comedy Zone" a thumbs up for great entertainment at less than the cost of a movie. For upcoming shows and directions, call (410) 749-9669.
The night was not over, however. Fager's Island, in Ocean City, has long been a landmark for great food and music. I was fortunate enough to have dinner there this past winter, and was enchanted by the elegant ambiance and delicious food. I was curious to see how the onslaught of vacationers impacted Fager's. Yikes! I never saw so many gyrating bodies in my life. If you like non-stop music and have no problem with scantily clad people within a foot radius, by all means go. If you are a student of sociology and want to observe the dating rituals of young humans, it's a must. If you are like me, however, a nightcap at home, or a walk on the beach might be a better way to end the evening.
I rounded off the weekend with a trip to "Art in the Park.", held at Northside Park. I had never been to the park before, and loved the view of the bay, the long dock, and the paved walkways, perfect for strolling or biking. It was chilly with a whipping wind, yet the caliber of art displayed made for a worthwhile outing. I was particularly impressed by the jewelry of Ron Haritan, of Gambrills, Md. With a background in stained glass, his fused glass jewelry designs are light-catching works of art. I couldn't resist, and am the proud owner of a stunning pair of earrings in iridescent blue. I will be watching for his return, and let you know so you can enjoy his work, too.
That raps it up for this week. I hope all you Dad's out there had a wonderful Father's Day. Special hugs to my Dad, George. You weren't with us for very long, but your love has lasted a lifetime. See you next week!
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Weds. June 15th~~
I woke in a fine sheen of sweat, as seems to be my custom these days...Maybe going through the change is more then that..perhaps all these intense fevers are the soul redifining itself..melting down the old and preparing for a new cycle...
enough profound thoughts for one day. time to go to work...clocked it yesterday..84 miles round trip commute on tues and wed now...jeeshhh. thank god for beautiful countryside and daydreams...I am lugging my antigue typewriter with me to work...this book demands to be written... later.
I woke in a fine sheen of sweat, as seems to be my custom these days...Maybe going through the change is more then that..perhaps all these intense fevers are the soul redifining itself..melting down the old and preparing for a new cycle...
enough profound thoughts for one day. time to go to work...clocked it yesterday..84 miles round trip commute on tues and wed now...jeeshhh. thank god for beautiful countryside and daydreams...I am lugging my antigue typewriter with me to work...this book demands to be written... later.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
just home from work..
Social column 14
This week's column is a little bit different than my weekly focus on one particular subject. It's been an eventful week, and there are several things I would like to share. First, and foremost, I would like to dedicate this column to Frank Dickson.~~
Hi, Frank. I can see you, drinking green tea, and winking at me, from heaven. Was it just last November that we celebrated your 100th birthday at the Berlin Senior Center? We decorated your cake with the green tea bags you attributed to your longevity, and watched, smiling, as you accepted your proclamation from Mayor Tom Cardinale and the City of Berlin. You gave your story to local newspaperman Pete Beisser, as your friends stopped by your chair with hugs and well wishes.
You see, Frank, last Friday I got home from a long day at work, and, as is my ritual, checked my e-mail. My friend and former boss, Shelby Bacon emailed me about your rite of passage. She said your kids stopped by the Berlin Senior Center, to tell her the news. She said you read my column every week, religiously. I never knew. I just knew I loved your smile, your zest for life, and loved flirting with you as much as you did with me. It was a great excuse, Frank, to say I was getting a kiss from a hundred year old man. Truth is, you still gave me a tingle, and I loved your stories about politics, and how you met President Warren Harding in the 1920's. I, as well as your family and other friends, will miss you, Frank.
You know from reading each week that I love the beach, and I tend to spend more time at Assateague Island than the beach in Ocean City. Last Sunday gave me another perspective, though. I was invited to the beach in Ocean City at 36th Street, home of Castle in the Sand. It was the best of both worlds, with a restaurant and Olympic sized pool, or, if you preferred, the sea just steps away. I had brought a picnic, but, even nicer, a young server strode through the sand, serving ice cold drinks and food. Talk about total relaxation....
Last Friday night was another great Open Mic Night at The Waterline Gallery, with an exciting line-up of musicians and, for the first time, poets. Kudos to Susan Beverly, poet, and her daughter Shannon. (Susan, your work touched me deeply). I couldn’t imagine reading my work in public, but she did it with passionate confidence. The crowd loved Bruce Lukoskie, guitarist, and "Gentleman" Joe Steen. Charlie Flagiello, a very talented photographer as well as guitarist and banjo player, charmed the crowd with his comedic songs. Bill Rolig, as well as being a celebrated local artist, sang and played the guitar. "Soul Feel’s" Lee and Joey returned for the second month in a row, polished and purring. Last, but not least, Steve Frene sat in on harmonica with Paul & Trish, who not only performed with zestful exuberance, but orchestrated the party. If you are a musician, poet, or enjoy live music and generally a good time, call The Waterline Gallery at (410) 641-9119 for more info. See You Next Week!
.up in Seaford Delaware today....here it is., number 14~~
Social column 14
This week's column is a little bit different than my weekly focus on one particular subject. It's been an eventful week, and there are several things I would like to share. First, and foremost, I would like to dedicate this column to Frank Dickson.~~
Hi, Frank. I can see you, drinking green tea, and winking at me, from heaven. Was it just last November that we celebrated your 100th birthday at the Berlin Senior Center? We decorated your cake with the green tea bags you attributed to your longevity, and watched, smiling, as you accepted your proclamation from Mayor Tom Cardinale and the City of Berlin. You gave your story to local newspaperman Pete Beisser, as your friends stopped by your chair with hugs and well wishes.
You see, Frank, last Friday I got home from a long day at work, and, as is my ritual, checked my e-mail. My friend and former boss, Shelby Bacon emailed me about your rite of passage. She said your kids stopped by the Berlin Senior Center, to tell her the news. She said you read my column every week, religiously. I never knew. I just knew I loved your smile, your zest for life, and loved flirting with you as much as you did with me. It was a great excuse, Frank, to say I was getting a kiss from a hundred year old man. Truth is, you still gave me a tingle, and I loved your stories about politics, and how you met President Warren Harding in the 1920's. I, as well as your family and other friends, will miss you, Frank.
You know from reading each week that I love the beach, and I tend to spend more time at Assateague Island than the beach in Ocean City. Last Sunday gave me another perspective, though. I was invited to the beach in Ocean City at 36th Street, home of Castle in the Sand. It was the best of both worlds, with a restaurant and Olympic sized pool, or, if you preferred, the sea just steps away. I had brought a picnic, but, even nicer, a young server strode through the sand, serving ice cold drinks and food. Talk about total relaxation....
Last Friday night was another great Open Mic Night at The Waterline Gallery, with an exciting line-up of musicians and, for the first time, poets. Kudos to Susan Beverly, poet, and her daughter Shannon. (Susan, your work touched me deeply). I couldn’t imagine reading my work in public, but she did it with passionate confidence. The crowd loved Bruce Lukoskie, guitarist, and "Gentleman" Joe Steen. Charlie Flagiello, a very talented photographer as well as guitarist and banjo player, charmed the crowd with his comedic songs. Bill Rolig, as well as being a celebrated local artist, sang and played the guitar. "Soul Feel’s" Lee and Joey returned for the second month in a row, polished and purring. Last, but not least, Steve Frene sat in on harmonica with Paul & Trish, who not only performed with zestful exuberance, but orchestrated the party. If you are a musician, poet, or enjoy live music and generally a good time, call The Waterline Gallery at (410) 641-9119 for more info. See You Next Week!
.up in Seaford Delaware today....here it is., number 14~~
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Wednesday morning~~
Here it is, Lucky Column 13..This one is extra special to me., because i get to combine what i love to do while helping people. I wince as i see a few mistakes, I need to somehow slow down and proofread my work more carefully.
Starting to get back into the rhythmn of the long days, but, deep inside i want to slow down...yet, there is no stopping the train! At least I have the house whipped back into shape, have spent more time with Justin, and managed to get my column in on time.
Social Column 13
I heard my sister scream "Georgie's hurt!", and I started running. Barefoot, across the sharp graveled alleyway, I ran, until I found my little brother sprawled under a huge maple tree, twitching and foaming at the mouth. At thirteen, I panicked; my uncle, who had a military background, didn't. He gently tilted Georgie's head to the side, made sure his airway was clear, and sent me back home to call an ambulance. My daring brother had won a bet...that he could climb to the tip top of the tallest oak tree. Unfortunately, it was at a dear cost. He lost his footing and fell, broke his wrist, and suffered a concussion, which caused a seizure. Though terrifying, this was a one-time event, that could have been prevented with head gear..not unlike that worn by bicylists and those in contact sports. Could you imagine living your life with repeated seizures?
According to the Epilepsy Foundation of the Eastern Shore, over 3,000 people on Maryland’s Eastern Shore have the condition. Note I say "condition", because epilepsy is Not a disease., but rather, abnormal electrical input to the brain.
The Epilepsy Foundation of the Eastern Shore is a non-profit organization dedicated to clearing the myths surrounding epilepsy, and helping those with the condition to lead lives free of the stigma of the perception that such people are shaking, foaming at the mouth, undesirables. Their mission is to educate the public, and to help epileptics and others with developmental difficulty find jobs, and lead a "normal" life.
Now for the fun part of this week's column. The foundation has come up with an awesome fundraiser! Now I don't play golf, though it is on my list of things to do, along with playing the flute and riding in a hot-air balloon. If you do play golf, or just want to support a great cause, The Sandpiper Open is the event for you. Held at Ocean Resorts Golf Club, 10655 Cathell Road in Berlin on June 17th, it's a great way to practice your swing, perhaps win a car or 5,000 dollars, and be a philanthropist at the same time.
The festivities begin at 12 noon, with registration. The Tournament itself begins at 1pm, with a shotgun start. You can bring your own foursome or they will match you with other golfers. You can compete to win the 5,000 putting contest and try to win a 2005 Ford, courtesy of Sherwood on the Shore, in the Hole-in-One competition. ( I have only the vaguest comprehension of Hole-in-One, and Putting contest, but, it sounds like fun.)
If you follow my column, you know I love to cook. Boil this fund-raiser down, and you will get 2 parts Fun, 1 part Self-less love, and 5 parts Gratitude, from those with Epilepsy.
I never was good at Math, but, I stick by my numbers. Last year they raised almost 8,000 dollars for their cause, and over 95percent was used for direct client services.
The tournament will end with a Reception at 6pm, with awards granted and an auction.
Golfer’s always have fun. That’s why they play. How great to do it for a cause that will enrich the lives of those facing challenges we do not.
See you next week!
Here it is, Lucky Column 13..This one is extra special to me., because i get to combine what i love to do while helping people. I wince as i see a few mistakes, I need to somehow slow down and proofread my work more carefully.
Starting to get back into the rhythmn of the long days, but, deep inside i want to slow down...yet, there is no stopping the train! At least I have the house whipped back into shape, have spent more time with Justin, and managed to get my column in on time.
Social Column 13
I heard my sister scream "Georgie's hurt!", and I started running. Barefoot, across the sharp graveled alleyway, I ran, until I found my little brother sprawled under a huge maple tree, twitching and foaming at the mouth. At thirteen, I panicked; my uncle, who had a military background, didn't. He gently tilted Georgie's head to the side, made sure his airway was clear, and sent me back home to call an ambulance. My daring brother had won a bet...that he could climb to the tip top of the tallest oak tree. Unfortunately, it was at a dear cost. He lost his footing and fell, broke his wrist, and suffered a concussion, which caused a seizure. Though terrifying, this was a one-time event, that could have been prevented with head gear..not unlike that worn by bicylists and those in contact sports. Could you imagine living your life with repeated seizures?
According to the Epilepsy Foundation of the Eastern Shore, over 3,000 people on Maryland’s Eastern Shore have the condition. Note I say "condition", because epilepsy is Not a disease., but rather, abnormal electrical input to the brain.
The Epilepsy Foundation of the Eastern Shore is a non-profit organization dedicated to clearing the myths surrounding epilepsy, and helping those with the condition to lead lives free of the stigma of the perception that such people are shaking, foaming at the mouth, undesirables. Their mission is to educate the public, and to help epileptics and others with developmental difficulty find jobs, and lead a "normal" life.
Now for the fun part of this week's column. The foundation has come up with an awesome fundraiser! Now I don't play golf, though it is on my list of things to do, along with playing the flute and riding in a hot-air balloon. If you do play golf, or just want to support a great cause, The Sandpiper Open is the event for you. Held at Ocean Resorts Golf Club, 10655 Cathell Road in Berlin on June 17th, it's a great way to practice your swing, perhaps win a car or 5,000 dollars, and be a philanthropist at the same time.
The festivities begin at 12 noon, with registration. The Tournament itself begins at 1pm, with a shotgun start. You can bring your own foursome or they will match you with other golfers. You can compete to win the 5,000 putting contest and try to win a 2005 Ford, courtesy of Sherwood on the Shore, in the Hole-in-One competition. ( I have only the vaguest comprehension of Hole-in-One, and Putting contest, but, it sounds like fun.)
If you follow my column, you know I love to cook. Boil this fund-raiser down, and you will get 2 parts Fun, 1 part Self-less love, and 5 parts Gratitude, from those with Epilepsy.
I never was good at Math, but, I stick by my numbers. Last year they raised almost 8,000 dollars for their cause, and over 95percent was used for direct client services.
The tournament will end with a Reception at 6pm, with awards granted and an auction.
Golfer’s always have fun. That’s why they play. How great to do it for a cause that will enrich the lives of those facing challenges we do not.
See you next week!
Friday, June 03, 2005
friday nite~~
it's 11:30 pm and i walked in the door an hour ago. These long days are taking some getting used to...out the door by 8-9am, back in at 10-10:30. I love the long ride thru the countryside in the morning, it is a time to think and reflect in blessed silence. The evenings are harder; I don't see well at night, and by the time I am almost thru the 45 minute ride the lines of the road seem to swell and blur..One more day to go, and i will be back on my regular schedule after the wedding.I have had one day off in between,and I am still running, running, not getting anywhere fast. My beautiful pink room is still trashed,the floors look cloudy and dusty in the house. I know it will get better, once I get back on my schedule. I found out a wonderful secret about the effect on local events of my column.., it makes me glad i didnt listen to my doubting self saying to give it up, there wasnt time...It's time to go to bed, and finish that last day of work. I am finally starting to grasp their computer system, and learn all the specs of the 35 beds I sell. I am trying to hone my selling skills and master all the managerial tasks. I worry about commissions and being away from home so much, and am in a guarded place of personal withdrawal. I'm just tired, i guess. But, here it is, Social COlumn 12~~
Social Column 12
Have you ever been to the Art League of Ocean City? Located bayside at 94th St., adjacent to the water tower, the art league has been promoting the enrichment of life through art since the 1960's.Though the building itself is owned by Ocean City, the inside is maintained by the 300 or so members of the league. With over 30 local business sponsors and a dedicated core of volunteers, the art league is a cultural pearl in a city more known for it's boardwalk and beaches. It's not just a gallery, either.. the League offers artistic workshops throughout the year, often with noted artists teaching the classes. I think that one of their best accomplishments is the scholarship fund they sponsor annually to benefit a budding local art student. Their latest fund-raiser was The Sandcastle Tour, with honorary chair for the event Kendel Ehrlich, wife of Maryland governor Robert Ehrlich, Jr. The two day event featured everything from a "bachelor pad" to a bed and breakfast on the beach, and was a great success. Proceeds for the event are slotted to build The Art League's own "sandcastle", a larger, more modern building with room to accommodate more workshops, exhibitions, and storage.
Each month they showcase a new exhibit, with an opening reception on the first Friday of the month between 5-7pm.It is free and open to the public.
One of my first forays into the art world since moving to Delmarva was one such opening last March. I was surprised at the building that houses The Art League; it looks more like a summer beach cottage then an art gallery. Though picturesque, I can understand why they dream of an expanded facility. I walked inside and signed the guest register, and was greeted warmly by one of the volunteers on hand for the evening. A table was set up with wine and cold drinks, and a buffet laden with homemade sweets and savory nibbles. Everything was delicious, and I loved the contrast of the simple, relaxed atmosphere with the spectacular, complex artwork on view.
The featured artists' mingled with the crowd, and it lent an even more intimate feel to the evening. I don't know about you, but when the best you can do is draw a stick figure, just being able to TALK to such artists is a thrill. How do they do it? A night at one of The Art League's receptions gives you the chance to ask them just that, while socializing with the local art community. If you want to join the organization, or want to know more about them, you can go to their website at www.artleagueofoceancity.org., or call them at (410)524-9433. I hope to be at this Friday's reception, because I know it will be exciting, enriching, and just plain fun.
Totally off track, but I have to share it....My day job takes me to Salisbury now, and I had my first soft-shell crab sandwich, from a take out place called "Chesapeake Treasures". If you are a newcomer like me, it looks scary to see a sandwich with legs poking out of two slices of bread. I closed my eyes and bit into it anyway. DELICIOUS! (Thanks to my friend Clarence, who brought me one at work.) See you next week!
it's 11:30 pm and i walked in the door an hour ago. These long days are taking some getting used to...out the door by 8-9am, back in at 10-10:30. I love the long ride thru the countryside in the morning, it is a time to think and reflect in blessed silence. The evenings are harder; I don't see well at night, and by the time I am almost thru the 45 minute ride the lines of the road seem to swell and blur..One more day to go, and i will be back on my regular schedule after the wedding.I have had one day off in between,and I am still running, running, not getting anywhere fast. My beautiful pink room is still trashed,the floors look cloudy and dusty in the house. I know it will get better, once I get back on my schedule. I found out a wonderful secret about the effect on local events of my column.., it makes me glad i didnt listen to my doubting self saying to give it up, there wasnt time...It's time to go to bed, and finish that last day of work. I am finally starting to grasp their computer system, and learn all the specs of the 35 beds I sell. I am trying to hone my selling skills and master all the managerial tasks. I worry about commissions and being away from home so much, and am in a guarded place of personal withdrawal. I'm just tired, i guess. But, here it is, Social COlumn 12~~
Social Column 12
Have you ever been to the Art League of Ocean City? Located bayside at 94th St., adjacent to the water tower, the art league has been promoting the enrichment of life through art since the 1960's.Though the building itself is owned by Ocean City, the inside is maintained by the 300 or so members of the league. With over 30 local business sponsors and a dedicated core of volunteers, the art league is a cultural pearl in a city more known for it's boardwalk and beaches. It's not just a gallery, either.. the League offers artistic workshops throughout the year, often with noted artists teaching the classes. I think that one of their best accomplishments is the scholarship fund they sponsor annually to benefit a budding local art student. Their latest fund-raiser was The Sandcastle Tour, with honorary chair for the event Kendel Ehrlich, wife of Maryland governor Robert Ehrlich, Jr. The two day event featured everything from a "bachelor pad" to a bed and breakfast on the beach, and was a great success. Proceeds for the event are slotted to build The Art League's own "sandcastle", a larger, more modern building with room to accommodate more workshops, exhibitions, and storage.
Each month they showcase a new exhibit, with an opening reception on the first Friday of the month between 5-7pm.It is free and open to the public.
One of my first forays into the art world since moving to Delmarva was one such opening last March. I was surprised at the building that houses The Art League; it looks more like a summer beach cottage then an art gallery. Though picturesque, I can understand why they dream of an expanded facility. I walked inside and signed the guest register, and was greeted warmly by one of the volunteers on hand for the evening. A table was set up with wine and cold drinks, and a buffet laden with homemade sweets and savory nibbles. Everything was delicious, and I loved the contrast of the simple, relaxed atmosphere with the spectacular, complex artwork on view.
The featured artists' mingled with the crowd, and it lent an even more intimate feel to the evening. I don't know about you, but when the best you can do is draw a stick figure, just being able to TALK to such artists is a thrill. How do they do it? A night at one of The Art League's receptions gives you the chance to ask them just that, while socializing with the local art community. If you want to join the organization, or want to know more about them, you can go to their website at www.artleagueofoceancity.org., or call them at (410)524-9433. I hope to be at this Friday's reception, because I know it will be exciting, enriching, and just plain fun.
Totally off track, but I have to share it....My day job takes me to Salisbury now, and I had my first soft-shell crab sandwich, from a take out place called "Chesapeake Treasures". If you are a newcomer like me, it looks scary to see a sandwich with legs poking out of two slices of bread. I closed my eyes and bit into it anyway. DELICIOUS! (Thanks to my friend Clarence, who brought me one at work.) See you next week!
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