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Downtown Easton Gift Guide 2026 pages 42 - 45

MAGAZINE NOVEMBER/ DECEMBER 2026

The Sporting

Life

ART

OYSTERS, WILDLIFE AND INSPIRED CREATIONS

FESTIVALS

FALL TRADITIONS AND HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

OUTDOORS

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

ART BEAT: The oyster

A new take on a beloved old vessel

LIFE ON THE SHORE: Eastern Shore photos Captured by our readers

46 65

WAYFARING: 55 years of tradition

New exhibits, family adventures and familiar favorites

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STRANGE TAILS: Conservation and camaraderie A look at the Talbot Retriever Club

GUN SHY: Shooting straight

High school clay target team strives to get perfect rounds

COMMUNITY: Holiday events Fun holiday events and festivals

GIVE BACK: Brighter Christmas Help brighten Christmas for Mid-Shore families

ARTFULLY D E S I G N E D EASTE E R N SHO ORE

S O P H I S T I C AT I O N

C D AY T O N A R C H I T E C T. C O M

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EDITORS’ NOTE One of the great things about life on the Eastern Shore is the opportunity to truly experience all four seasons — and all the outdoor traditions that come with them: fishing, crabbing, hunting and trapping. Although trapping isn’t as prevalent as it once was, back in the 1970s and ’80s, it once was a reliable source of income for those willing to put in the work, particularly through the harvest of fur-bearing animals.

Editors Hannah Combs Eli Wohlenhaus General Manager/Sales Betsy Griffin 443-239-0307

Hannah Combs

While I appreciate hunting for the food it provides, and the important role it plays in managing the deer population, I’ll admit I don’t quite have the patience or endurance to sit quietly and still for hours on end. That said, it’s something I’ve enjoyed once or twice. If you are able and willing, please consider donating your deer harvest this season to help feed those facing food insecurity. On the Mid-Shore, Tuckahoe River Deer Processing in Denton and Preston (Frase’s) Custom Butcher Shop in Preston are listed as participating butcher shops in Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry. Farmers & Hunters Feeding the Hungry helps pay the processing costs for donations. We recommend contacting butchers ahead of time to confirm current participation and delivery details. For more information contact Mid-Shore FHFH Coordinator Amy Cawley at 443-7350757 or acawley99@gmail.com You can also cover the cost of processing a standard cut yourself and take your donation to a local food pantry, such as Aaron’s Place, which accepts venison and distributes it to community members in need. Whether you’re cheering on a retriever at the water’s edge or celebrating the rich craft and traditions of the Shore, we invite you to dive in and enjoy everything that makes outdoor life here truly unforgettable.

Sales Manager Donna Baez 954-914-9673 Creative Director Jennifer Quinn Page Design Jennifer Quinn Editorial Liaison Amelia Blades Stewart Contributing Photographers Bill Whaley Tom McCall Amelia Steward Contributing Writers Amelia Steward Elizabeth Wojciechowski Tom McCall Editorial Contact 443-239-9169 29088 Airpark Drive Easton, MD 21601 www.shoremonthly.com

— Hannah Combs Shore Magazine is published by The Star Democrat. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission from the publisher. Copyright 2026. All Rights Reserved ©

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A R T BEAT

THE OYSTER

A NEW TAKE ON A BELOVED OLD VESSEL BY AMELIA BLADES STEWARD

rom his love of wooden boats to sculpting oversized oyster shells, Jeff Mathias of Tilghman has been fascinated with vessels. Mathias, an artist, maritime industry professional, boat captain, and light commercial diver, has blended his love and curiosity about the oyster into sculptural work dedicated to studying “Crassostrea virginica ” – the Eastern Oyster shell. His hand-built pieces, crafted in domestic porcelain—some at massive scale—have caught the eye of collectors across the country. “I am honoring the oyster on a grander scale as it represents the heritage and culture that have been a part of my adult life,” states Mathias. Mathias earned a BFA from Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi, where he studied under the renowned artist and educator Dr. Jon Whittington. His formal training included art history, figure drawing, painting, printmaking, threedimensional design, and fine art photography. After graduation, he set out to restore a 32-foot wooden sailboat (circa 1949) on the Eastern Shore. He initially planned only a short stay to complete repairs before sailing south, but instead found a home on Tilghman Island, where he built

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his marine services career, met his wife Susan, and raised two sons. “Experiencing the skipjacks, hearing tales of the old packing houses, and being around the oysters, crabs, fish, and eels, and the proud culinary traditions here, was very similar to the Gulf Coast culture I had been exposed to growing up near Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. I had always worked in the restaurant business, and I had a big family, so somebody was always cooking a big fine feast, and oysters were often a big part of that. So, in that way I felt at home in Tilghman,” Mathias recalls. His foray into oysters began when he and his wife made oyster shells for cooking and serving. The two share a studio space at Tilghman Island Kiln Works. He hadn’t done any ceramics since college. After perfecting the first set, Mathias began looking at the engineering, biology, and layering of the oyster shell and became fascinated with it as a sculptor. “My passion grew from studying the oyster shells and being challenged by depicting them in porcelain. Later, as I started doing online searches for oyster sculptures and realized no one was

Mathias’s oysters reflect their natural shells and, in some cases, their barnacles. Photo by Amelia Steward.

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An oyster shell in the process of being built using a technique called slip trailing. Photo courtesy of Jeff Mathias.

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Pictured is oyster sculptor Jeff Mathias of Tilghman, Maryland, in Beall Gallery in St. Michaels, with some of his Chesapeake Bay and Coastal oyster sculptures. He will have his work featured in the 2026 Waterfowl Festival in Easton, Maryland. Photo by Amelia Steward.

doing anything like that. Although lots of people have made oyster dishes and decorative things, no one was doing a deep dive into oysters,” he shares. According to Mathias, the shape of the oyster is really subtle, with many nuances. He struggled for almost five years trying to capture

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I pattern my designs after how the oysters are naturally formed in the water. its essence – focusing on the s u b t l e characteristics of coloration, texture, edges, and layering. It wasn’t until his wife came across a short video about the technique of slip trailing that his technique came together. After building the form of the oyster, this technique involves using a paintbrush, a painter’s knife, and other tools to apply wet slip to build the edges, the layering, and the texturing that is the hallmark of an oyster shell. “All of it’s pretty intricate work. This technique allowed me the spontaneity to capture the chaos of the natural shell and, in some cases, its barnacles. Every day I was learning something new, but I loved the results that I was getting. As I made the oyster a little bit bigger, I liked it on a larger scale,” Mathias reflects. Last year, Mathias posted pictures of his sculptures on his Facebook page, and Deena Kilmon, friend and executive director of the Waterfowl Festival in Easton, saw the oysters and encouraged him to do something for the Festival. He recalls that he didn’t feel he was ready yet. Then he decided to apply to be a juried artist, and to his surprise, he was accepted to exhibit for the 2025 Waterfowl Festival. “I think what I was doing occupied a space that many people had never seen. People came and asked me, ‘Are these real?’ So, I think that’s the greatest compliment I could receive,” Mathias states. One large oyster can take 10 to 12 hours to make, and a medium oyster can take 5 to 8 hours. Mathias has created general basic forms of all different sizes

and shapes of oysters that give him his starting point. He presses the clay into the form, creating the hinge, then shapes the interior and the foot where the oyster attaches to the shell. When he starts on the exterior of the oyster, he has a smooth blank canvas on which to add the slip work and create the necessary layers. He uses a misting spray bottle to keep the clay wet, as the application of the slip must be quick and spontaneous. “I pattern my designs after how the oysters are naturally formed in the water. The oyster starts as spat and then just grows layer after layer,” he shares. Glazing his oysters takes another complete day and involves using between seven and nine different glaze colors on the interior. He uses Coyote Glazes, helping him achieve his signature pearlescent look on the interior of the oyster shell. These glazes are applied in thin washes of color that must dry between coats, so the process is very time-consuming. He reports that his work with his glazes is still evolving. Mathias’ work has expanded to include a new line of Coastal Oysters representing the wild and farm-raised oysters seen in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. He is now represented in the Sportsman’s Gallery on King Street in Charleston, South Carolina, and hopes to be juried in the Southeast Wildlife Exhibition in Charleston this year. His next efforts will focus on the Gulf Oysters of his homeland. The Beall Gallery at 205 North Talbot Street in St. Michaels, Maryland, features his oyster sculptures. He feels his work complements gallery owner Tim Beall’s paintings – celebrating the culture of the Eastern Shore. “Together, the paintings and porcelain speak

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to the same waters—one in brushstroke, the other in clay. I’m especially excited by how seamlessly our work shows together. There’s a shared reverence for the water and for the people whose lives are shaped by tide and season,” Mathias shares. The Beall Gallery also features a sampling of Mathias’ wife Susan’s trademarked Oysterware – a handcrafted collection of porcelain oyster shells designed for serving, celebrating, and

savoring the coastal culinary traditions of the Eastern Shore. Her work is available through their online store at TilghmanIslandKilnWorks. com. Mathias’s sculptures can be seen at his site jeffreymathias.com. Viewings of Mathias’s oyster sculptures are also available by appointment at his home gallery on Tilghman Island and at this year’s 2026 Waterfowl Festival in Easton. S

Mathias’s oysters reflect their natural shells and, in some cases, their barnacles. Photo by Amelia Steward.

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STRANGE TAILS

CONSERVATION AND CAMARADERIE

A look at the Talbot Retriever Club STORY BY ELIZABETH WOJCIECHOWSKI Photos courtesy of the Talbot Retriever Club

ocated on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, the Talbot Retriever Club is composed of locals who are passionate about training retrievers for hunting. The Talbot Retriever Club was founded in 1975 and is centered around Easton and Trappe. The club hosts regular training days and seminars for other hunting dog owners in the area. They welcome both experienced dog trainers and newcomers, with extra guidance being given to those that are just getting started. “Basically, we’re a group of sporting dog enthusiasts,” Larry Hindman, the membership chair of the Talbot Retriever Club, said. Hindman has been training retrievers for the past 20 years, and considers training his labrador retrievers to be one of his favorite hobbies. He notes the

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closeness and collaboration that is shared among the members of the Talbot Retriever Club. “The camaraderie of the people in

I ENJOY THE TRAINING OF THE DOG AND BUILDING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE DOG AND MYSELF AS A TEAM the club is great when we’re training,” Hindman said. “Oftentimes, groups get together informally and train on weekends or days that we can get a group available.” The training process for retrievers is quite extensive, but Hindman notes that the most important aspect is obedience. He emphasizes that a hunting dog can only be successful if it follows the verbal commands of its owner, especially due to the unpredictable nature of hunting. With every new retriever that he trains, Hindman likes to first build a foundation of obedience and trust with the dog. “I enjoy the training of the dog and building the relationship between the dog and myself as a team,” Hindman said. “The dogs enjoy it too.” Recently, a number of dog and trainer teams from the Talbot Retriever Club made it to the masters final series, which is the highest level of competition for hunting dogs. “There are three levels of competition, so to speak, and each dog is tested by a set of judges,” Hindman said. “There’s junior hunter, senior hunter and master hunter, and

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the competition gets more difficult as you advance toward master hunter.” According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), retriever hunting competitions test a dog’s abilities – both natural and trained – to mark, track and recover downed waterfowl and other game across both land and water. Retriever hunting competitions often task retrievers with picking up three birds that they see go down in different locations. All three birds go down at the same time, so the dogs need to be able to remember where the other two birds went down after they retrieve the first one. What sets a masters level retriever hunting competition apart from the other levels of competition is that the dogs that are competing run a blind retrieve, which is when they have to retrieve a bird that is down without seeing where it was placed or where it landed. Hindman notes that trust between a dog and its trainer is crucial when running a blind retrieve, as the trainer is solely responsible for directing the dog towards the downed bird, often using whistles and hand signals to guide the dog on which direction to go. In addition to competing in hunting dog competitions, the Talbot Retriever Club is also involved in many community-based activities such as the Waterfowl Festival,

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which takes place every November in Easton. This year’s festival is scheduled for Nov. 13-16. The Waterfowl Festival includes many nature exhibitions and a vendor area featuring local artisans. “We work closely with the Waterfowl Festival,” Hindman said. “The club each year, probably for several decades, has been doing a retriever demonstration at the Bay Street Ponds, where we show the public what these dogs can do in a small area.” The Talbot Retriever Club’s participation in the Waterfowl Festival often puts their work in front of an audience who would otherwise be unfamiliar with what their organization does. Hindman notes that the club’s annual demonstration at the Waterfowl Festival is often a community favorite. “People love dogs and they love to see them work, and so we work closely with the Waterfowl Festival to bring that to the community,” Hindman said. Additionally, the Talbot Retriever Club’s participation in the festival helps to spread the word on the guiding principle of their organization: Conservation. “Our real objective is to encourage people to hunt with a trained retriever because retrievers are a great conservation tool,” Hindman said. “They can retrieve birds that hunters might normally lose.” S

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LIFE ON THE SHORE Celebrating life on the Eastern Shore, captured by our readers

Hazelmoore by Brittany Reisler Hazelmoor Earlville, MD

Woodlands Queen by Laura Cline Ridgely, MD 30

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So Proud by Jenny Nelson Haven Harbour Marina in Rock Hall, MD

Generation to Generation Conner Combs, Henderson, MD

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My Biggest Catfish Catch 15.43 lbs by Janice Brewer Riley’s Mill Chestertown, MD

Three Little (Unhappy) Birds by Brittany Reisler Havre de Grace, Harford County, MD 32

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Cousins by Jenny Nelson Fairlee Creek in Great Oak MD in Kent County, MD

Sailing Through HDG by Brittany Reisler Havre de Grace, Harford County, MD

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SHOP TALK

SHOOTING STRAIGHT The Easton High School Clay Target Team strives to get perfect rounds

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Left: Coach Joe Capozzoli works Luke Fisher and Austin Eader between rounds. His one admonition is stay out of your head. Relax. Right middle: Half the team is shooting trap. The white towers in the background are for the other half who shoot skeet. Right lower: Coach Joe Capozzli encourages Luke Fisher. There is a clear respectful and warm rapport between the coaches and the team.

GUN SHY

Story and photos by Tom McCall

atching orange clay birds disintegrate in the blue autumn sky is satisfying. Pull, boom and dust is the rhythm at the Talbot Rod and Gun Club. These 13 Easton High School students have dedicated themselves to the sport of clay target shooting. It is a numbers game with success measured in increments of 25. Although the program is only two years old, the passion and dedication is clearly evident. “I have learned to focus. Focusing on the little things but also the friendships with everybody. It is a great program. It teaches you things about life,” said senior Luke Foster. The Easton High School Clay Target Team is striving to get these perfect rounds. It is not impossible, but it is very difficult. But there is more to the sport than numbers. “Getting youth on the right path, you can’t ask for more than that. The satisfaction I get is immeasurable. To watch these kids grow, develop and take on good habits, it teaches the kids really good habits,” director of scholastic shooting and coach Joe Capozzoli said. The Easton team has placed well in the conference and won the state championship last year. Other conference teams include Queen Anne’s County High School, Kent County High School, St. Michaels High School, Kent Island High School, Chestertown Christian Academy and Calvert Hall College High School. There are 13 schools which participate in the Maryland State High School Clay Target League. Over 100 kids from the shore compete in the conference. “There are probably 50,000 kids in the league nationwide. The Eastern Shore is the fastest growing area in the USA Clay Target League,” Capozzoli said. Foster has been on the team since its inception. “I like shooting stuff, but it is about the team mostly. I have good days and bad days, but I try my best all the time,” Foster said. He shot 24 out of 25 at practice, considered an elite level. You could feel his fellow students’ growing S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6 | S H O R E M O N T H LY. C O M

admiration as the round unfurled. There were fist bumps all around at the end. The coaches monitored every minute of the practice, and wrote down every score. Between rounds they offered helpful tips. It takes a lot of adult guidance to keep the students focused. Safety is priority. They protect their ears and their eyes. The students are required to take a hunter safety course before they can participate. There are four volunteers who show up every Wednesday for the practice sessions at the Talbot Rod and Gun Club. “All our coaches have to go through the NRA National

Range Safety Officer Training,” said Justin Eader, head coach. The kids on the Easton team can pick between two games. “Skeet and trap games of shooting clays. American Skeet has a half circle field and the birds come from a high house or a low house. There are 8 stations on the field. Trap has five stations in a line and the bird is going away from you,” he said. The targets are hard to predict and move very fast. “Perfect games in skeet and trap are 25 out of 25. My son who is on the team shot 75 straight a few weeks ago. You need hand eye coordination. Safety is number one. We have kids who aren’t your typical ball and

Top: Photo left to right Dylan Tawney, Mason Foster, Liam Brown, Carter Cummings pause between rounds. There is a lot of fist pumping when someone shoots well. Bottom: Coach Frank Weishaer keeps track of everyone’s score while Coach Joe Capozzli helps to encourage improvements.

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stick athletes. They excel,” coach Eader said. He said the team doesn’t receive any funds from the county. “Seeing the progression and how quickly the kids can pick it up. When a kid shoots 25 or 50 straight, there is a tradition that whoever does it, throws their hat up and all the kids shoot at the hat,” Eader said. Although the practice is fun, there is zero horseplay. Several students were asked what the best part was and they all smiled. Daniel Smith, “Shooting stuff is fun. You can’t go wrong. I have a Berretta. It is just for fun. I get out of work, and come down here. It is very difficult to have a 25 (target) day. It is very safe. Everything is about safety.” It is, however, an expensive sport. The ammunition rounds, the targets, the shotguns the kids have to own. But they have lots of sponsors like Cianci Chiropractic, Soistman Dentistry, The Oaks, Molly’s Place Sporting Goods and Albright’s Gun Shop in Easton. Gun distributor RETAY has sold some guns at cost to the kids. “Two rounds we shoot in practice are $12 in targets, $24 in shotgun shells. So every time a kid steps on the field it is $36. Not to mention jerseys and shooting vests,” Eader said. Coaches note the multitude of sponsors indicates a robust level of community support. “I am a firm believer in getting kids involved in the community. They go to school board meetings, sponsor events. Nation’s Night Out is coming up next week so will have several kids working at the Police Department. I try and make them as well rounded as I can,” Capozzoli said. He oversees both the Easton High team and the Saint Michael’s teams. In turn, the students are encouraged to give back to their communities. They will give a demonstration at The Waterfowl Festival and volunteer at Molly’s Place. There is some ambition among the students to take the sport beyond high school. Senior Austin Eader said he would like to keep going after his senior year. “It depends on the offers. I would love to go to Washington College,” he said, citing a college with a clay target program.

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“There are scholarships. In trap you need to be 23 to 25 every round to be competitive. Skeet is 23 to 25 as well. We are in first place in skeet. You have to be consistent,” said Eader. The shooting clubs which support these student’s growth also see an opportunity. “The fact that it is a scholastic shooting program, you are getting the right kind of youth involved in the programs under very strict guidelines,” Capozzoli said. The USA Clay Target League has approximately 2,000 high school teams participating with 55,000 students registered. According to Eader, Ohio and Wisconsin are hot spots of one of the nation’s fastest growing high school sports. The Eastern Shore is growing too, with programs in Queen Anne’s County, Kent County and Dorchester. Young men and women compete separately, but the best score of either side wins. The “War on the Shore” Eastern Shore High School Clay Target Championship takes place November 8 at the Sudlersville Skeet Club. Easton, Kent County, Queen Anne’s County and Kent Island High School will be competing. In the meantime, these students are just focused on dusting one bird at a time. S

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Griffin Diffindaffer, 15, sophomore at Easton High loads the trap with clay targets. Daniel Smith relays the targets from coach Justin Eader at left.

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DOWNTOWN

EASTON

GIFT GUIDE 2026

Downtown Easton is charming for many reasons, but none more so than it’s fantastic shopping. Each holiday season, guests are treated to a Hallmark movie-worthy downtown and the most perfect shopping experience you could ask for. We’ve compiled a small sampling from some of these wonderful stores, to give you an idea of what’s waiting out there to be found. Think of it as the just the tip of the peppermint stick, and use this as a jumping off point to shop local in one of the most charming small towns for the holidays.

2 5

1. Authentic Native American jewelry. Justamere Trading Post | 410.745.2227 2. Stoneware decorative tree & Spode Judaica Hanukkah Menorah. Welcome Home | welcomehomemarkets.com | 410.690.8796 3. Tasteful FROM HERE tumblrs exclusively at... Levity & Wit | levityandwit.com | 410.212.9518

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4. Sterling Silver crab pendant. Silver Linings | silverliningsmd.com | 410.443.0217 5. Mudpie plush pal and infant hat. Urban Country Designs | urbancountrydesigns.com | 410.822.3355

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6. Expertly crafted men’s wear. Berrier Limited | berrierlimited.com | 410.819.0657 7. Eames Chair and Ottoman in Red Leather with Palisander Shell. The Modern Bulldog | @themodernbulldog | 443.239.6668

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See the full guide at

DISCOVEREASTON.COM 11. Beautiful Francesca Daisy Maxi dress and Mary Mod Heel gold shoe. Windswept Clothiers | windsweptclothiers.com | 800.484.5610 12. Louis Vuitton Batignolles Horizontal Monogram Bag. Frugalicious | frugalicious.com | 410.822.3355 13. Vintage Dominique Aurientis necklace made with Gripoix hand poured glass beads Oxford Vintage & Trade | oxfordvintagentrade.com | 610.952.7849

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14. A rare treasure - The Great Gatsby - 1st UK Edition. Vintage Books | vintagebooksmd.com | 410.562.3403 15. Ursa Major cream and body serum Elizabeth Claire | elizabethclaire.salon | 410.770.6998

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16. A variety of beaded necklaces, one of many amazing gifts at... The Market at Dover Station | doverstation.com | 410.600.7185 17. Silhouette glasses in tortoise shell. Frugalicious | frugalicious.com | 410.822.3355 18. Stunning set of twelve gold crocus Minton China. The Cairn | 410.822.285714

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55 years of art, wildlife and Shore traditions

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WAYFARIN G

NEW EXHIBITS, FAMILY ADVENTURES AND FAMILIAR FAVORITES AWAIT AT EASTON’S WATERFOWL FESTIVAL

retriever launches from a dock, a child meets a bald eagle and an artist captures the Chesapeake’s wildlife in bronze, graphite or paint. For 55 years, the Waterfowl Festival has brought those worlds together, celebrating the Eastern Shore’s outdoor traditions while supporting the landscapes and wildlife that inspire them. The 55th festival returns Nov. 13-15, with exhibits, demonstrations, shopping and family activities throughout Easton. A Premier Night opening

reception Nov. 12 offers an early look at artwork created for the anniversary celebration. Founded in 1971, the festival has raised nearly $6 million for conservation and education, according to organizers. Its proceeds support environmental projects, arts and cultural initiatives, and student scholarships. This year’s celebration builds on that history with new venues, three featured artists and more ways for families to explore.

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Randy Conner’s carving. Conner is one of three featured artists at this year’s Waterfowl Festival.

55 ARTISTS, THREE FEATURED TALENTS The anniversary festival will showcase 55 artists working in painting, sculpture, carving, mixed media and other disciplines. For the first time, organizers have selected three featured artists rather than one. Ray Brown is known for detailed graphite renderings of wildlife. Maryland sculptor Paul Rhymer captures animals in bronze, with a festival piece inspired by the Chesapeake region and incorporating a nod to the nation’s 250th anniversary. Decoy carver Randy Conner will unveil a hand-carved work created for the festival’s 55th year. The fine arts offerings along North Harrison Street

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include the Framptom Gallery, the PNC Pavilion and a return to the Tidewater Inn’s Gold Ballroom after more than a decade. At the Waterfowl Building on South Harrison Street, the reimagined Sporting Heritage Pavilion will connect the artwork with the traditions behind it. Visitors can explore the Harry M. Walsh Waterfowling Artifacts Exhibit, fine art, decoys and vintage and contemporary firearms displays, along with carving demonstrations. The 2025 and 2026 federal duck stamp artists also will be featured at the Easton Visitors Center.

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A hunting dog lifts its two front feet up to run into the Bay Street ponds during a retriever demonstration at the 54th Waterfowl Festival in Easton on Nov. 16, 2025.

WILDLIFE TAKES THE STAGE New this year, Voices of the Chesapeake at the Avalon Theatre brings wildlife, conservation, art and regional storytelling into one venue. Families can watch the Talbot Retriever Club demonstrate the communication between dogs and handlers, meet a bald eagle through a presentation by Nanjemoy Creek and learn about reptiles and Chesapeake creatures through Assateague Scales and Tails. Other scheduled offerings include the Maryland Raptor Conservancy, a presentation about “The Outlaw Gunner” and a conversation with the federal duck stamp artists. Visitors can choose a single program or build several stops into their day. For outdoor action, Ducks Unlimited Landing and the Sportsman’s Pavilion at the Elks Lodge on Dutchmans Lane will offer sporting exhibits, conservation displays, shopping, food and live music. DockDogs competitions bring an especially lively attraction, with dogs racing down a dock and leaping into the water in contests of distance and height. Nearby attractions include the raptor exhibition, children’s art exhibits and the Buy-Sell-Swap collectibles area, a festival tradition dating to 1971.

A band performs outside the Waterfowl Festival building during the 54th Waterfowl Festival on Nov. 16, 2025.

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Photo of a wood duck on the first days of spring in Baltimore. Photo by Scott Suriano.

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A TRAIL FOR YOUNG EXPLORERS

FOOD, MUSIC AND LOCAL DISCOVERIES

The returning Quackin’ Trail gives children a route through more than 11 activity locations. Families can pick up a trail map at ticket kiosks or find it online. Stops include the Phillips Wharf Fishmobile, drawing with Tim Young, storytelling with the Chesapeake Mermaid and art activities sponsored by the Ward Foundation at the Chesapeake Bay Pavilion. At the Bay Street Ponds, families can watch retriever demonstrations, try disc golf and take part in children’s fishing activities. A children’s calling contest at the Sportsman’s Pavilion requires advance registration. Four-legged visitors have an itinerary of their own: A new VIP Dog Trail includes three stops for canine guests.

Across from the Waterfowl Building, the new Canvasback Courtyard will combine shopping and music with the Marshland Mercantile and Duck Blind Bar. Festival beers and a limited-edition 55th-anniversary rye whiskey from Gray Wolf will be among the offerings. The Maryland’s Best Tasting Pavilion provides another stop for visitors looking to sample regional flavors. The Preferred Merchant Program also encourages festivalgoers to explore participating shops and restaurants in Easton and surrounding communities. A merchant checklist is available through the festival’s digital planning platform.

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A dog participates in the DockDogs event at the Waterfowl Festival.

PLAN YOUR VISIT Opening ceremonies will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. Nov. 12 at the Tidewater Inn. Festival festivities and attractions run Nov. 13-15, with activities from morning into evening. Tickets are available at waterfowlfestival.org. Children 15 and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. Festival ticket booths are now cashless and accept only credit and debit cards. Premier Night ticket options and reception details also are available on the website. Discounted three-day tickets are $20 through Oct. 31 at waterfowlfestival.org. Children 15 and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. Premier Night

Paul Rhymer kayaking in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. Rhymer is one of three featured artists for the Waterfowl Festival later this year.

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ticket options and reception details also are available on the website. The digital festival map at waterfowlfestival.org/ festival-map identifies venues, activities, parking, shuttle stops and accessible parking. Visitors can print the map and a personalized itinerary before arriving. Free parking is available at Easton Middle School, Easton High School and Easton Elementary School, with accessible parking and shuttle stops at each location. For program times, registration information and the complete schedule, visit the festival website or call 410-822-4567. S

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The Trippe Gallery

On Exhibit ~ Winged Elegance by Kathryn Griswold 23 N Harrison Street ~ Easton, Maryland ~ 410-310-8727 ~thetrippegallery.com

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5 T H A N N UA L

2027 WEDDING TREND REVE AL EVENT

Saturday

FEB. 7, 2027 KENT ISLAND RESORT

500 Kent Manor Dr, Stevemsville, MD

DOORS OPEN 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

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Share your products and services with attendees planning their wedding at the elegant Kent Island Resort. The event features our popular runway show, with local models revealing 2027 wedding trends, plus inspiring tablescapes throughout the venue. Your business will be featured in the spring/summer issue of Chesapeake Bay Wedding magazine - and you’ll get to consult directly with couples planning thier big day. Contact Donna Baez at dbaez@chespub.com or 954-914-9673 S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6 | S H O R E M O N T H LY. C O M

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LAURA CARNEY Local Expertise. Global Connections. Laura Carney, Senior Vice President with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, brings more than 30 years of real estate experience and a lifetime of Eastern Shore knowledge to her clients. A Talbot County native with deep roots in the region, Laura pairs unparalleled local insight with the global reach and resources of Sotheby’s International Realty. Known for her professionalism, integrity, and exceptional client service, she has built a distinguished reputation as one of the Eastern Shore’s leading real estate professionals. Laura Carney, Senior Vice President m +1 410 310 3307, o +410 673 3344 laura.carney@sothebysrealty.com, lauracarney.com

© 2026 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. The Sotheby’s International Realty trademark is licensed and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. TTR Sotheby’s International Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. All offerings are subject to errors, omissions, changes including price or withdrawal without notice. Easton Brokerage, 17 Goldsborough Street, +1 410 673 3344

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Get in the

holiday spirit

COMMUNIT Y

on the Mid-Shore

Below is a list of just some of the fun holiday events and festivals that are going on the Mid-Shore. We recognize this list may not be comprehensive and dates/times are subject to change after going to print. Please check the sources we included for each event before making plans to attend. Happy holidays from all of us at Shore magazine!

Nov. 21, 2026 Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival Holiday Edition ST. MICHAELS The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and features coastal and sea-glass artists, shopping, food and drinks, live music and access to the museum campus. Information from seaglassfestival. com and cbmm.org. Nov. 25, 2026 – Jan. 2, 2027 Christmas in Ridgely Winterfest of Lights RIDGELY A nightly light display along the town's Rails-to-Trails path featuring festive installations, photo stations and thousands of lights, illuminated starting at 5 p.m. each evening. Information from christmasinridgely.com.

Top: A young child poses for photos during Ridgely’s annual Winter Festival last year. Bottom: Children take on ice skating outside of the Ridgely Town Hall in 2024. Photos by Konner Metz.

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HUNTING & FISHING BOATS

From Hunting & Fishing Folks

DON’T SHOOT THE E LINES One shot to our fiber optic cables can cost you $20,000+ in repairs with an extended internet outage to your community. South of Cambridge On Maryland’s Eastern Shore 1439 Hooper’s Island Road, Church Creek, MD

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800-792-0082 Gootees.com

Nov. 27, 2026

Dec. 4, 2026 – Jan. 9, 2027

Chestertown Christmas Parade

Christmas on the Creek

CHESTERTOWN

OXFORD

One of Kent County's favorite holiday traditions kicks off the season with the annual parade beginning at Dixon Drive and ending at the intersection of High and Spring streets, featuring marching bands, classic automobiles, floats and holiday characters. Information from kentcounty.com and mainstreetchestertown.org.

Christmas on the Creek is a month-long celebration of lights, music, food and family activities. For a full list of events, visit portofoxford.com.

Nov. 28, 2026 Small Business Saturday VARIOUS Many towns in the region host events to encourage shopping locally the first Saturday after Thanksgiving. Check your local community’s website or social media pages to get involved and support small businesses.

Dec. 5, 2026 QAC Watermen’s Association Crab Basket Tree Lighting GRASONVILLE The annual holiday celebration features a visit from Santa Claus followed by the lighting of the crab basket Christmas tree. Information from the Queen Anne's Watermen's Association and Kent Narrows Development Foundation.

Dec. 4, 2026 Centreville Christmas Parade CENTREVILLE The parade begins at 6:30 p.m., proceeding through downtown Centreville and featuring floats, marching bands and festive entries. This year’s theme is “Stars and Stripes and Holiday Lights — 250 Years of America.” Information from townofcentreville.org and the Queen Anne's County Historical Society. Dec. 4-5, 2026 A Dickens of a Christmas CHESTERTOWN Historic Chestertown transforms into Victorian-era London for a two-day celebration featuring carolers, holiday markets, carriage rides, street theater and holiday entertainment. Information from mainstreetchestertown.org. Dec. 5, 2026 Ridgely Lions Club Christmas Parade RIDGELY The parade begins at 6:45 p.m. with lineup at 6:15 p.m. at Martin Sutton Park Fourth Street Parking Lot, with Santa visiting the train station after the parade. Information from christmasinridgely.com.

Left: The spirit of Christmas abounded during the 2024 event. From left, residents Michal Dickinson and Joanne and Bill Ghio embody a Dickensian scene. Photo by Will Bontrager. Right: Santa and Mrs. Claus flipped the switch to officially illuminate the crab basket tree at the Crab Deck at last year’s event. Photo by Andrea Grabenstein

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Dec. 5, 2026 Cambridge-Dorchester County Christmas Parade CAMBRIDGE The parade kicks off at 5 p.m. from Long Wharf and travels up High Street, turning at Poplar onto Race Street to Washington Street, continuing a tradition that began in 1946. Information from dorchesterchamber.org and christmasparade.org. Dec. 5, 2026 Easton's Old Fashioned Holiday Parade EASTON The annual holiday parade features marching bands, classic cars and Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Before the parade, Santa arrives in Thompson Park at 5:30 p.m., followed by a tree lighting at 6 p.m. Information from discovereaston.com. Dec. 5, 2026 Rock Hall Christmas Tree Lighting ROCK HALL Christmas festivities kick off at 6 p.m. with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus by boat at the bulkhead, followed by lighting of Rock Hall's Crab Basket Christmas Tree on Main Street featuring several hundred decorated baskets in memory or honor of loved ones. Information from kentcounty.com. December 2026 Festival of Trains CHESTER The Queen Anne's Railroad Society presents a large train festival at the Kent Narrows Outlet Center featuring model railroad displays and related exhibits. Specific dates have not yet been announced as of press time. Information from the Kent Narrows Development Foundation and Queen Anne’s Railroad Society.

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Dec. 10-13, 2026 — Christmas in St. Michaels — ST. MICHAELS The 40th annual celebration features a full weekend of holiday activities for all ages. Information from christmasinstmichaels.org. Dec. 11-13, 2026 — Oxford Holiday Market — OXFORD The third annual event features local artisans and makers, holiday shopping, seasonal treats and family activities at the Oxford Community Center. Information from doehrntea.com. Dec. 12, 2026 — Hurlock Christmas Parade — HURLOCK The parade begins at 5 p.m. on Main Street with lineup starting at 4 p.m., with additional holiday festivities taking place in town. Information from dorchesterchamber.org and the town of Hurlock. Top Left: The Paw Patrol’s Marshall found his way onto the Hurlock Volunteer Fire Department’s float at the Cambridge-Dorchester County Christmas Parade last year. Photo by Jim Johnson. Top Right: Photo shows a crab basket tree during the 2020 Christmas season. Photo by Daniel Divilio. Bottom Right: This unique rotating train and village are part of a display at a previous Festival of Trains. Photo by Doug Bishop.

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Cast your sights on waterfront living in Talbot County Enjoy waterfront living on the banks of the Tred Avon River near historic Easton on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Londonderry on the Tred Avon is an intimate residential community for anyone ages 62+. We offer a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages nestled among 29 beautiful acres, including 1,500 feet of shoreline. Londonderry residents enjoy the amenities that make Eastern Shore living easy, including full-service dining, stress-free maintenance, and convenient transportation. Londonderry on the Tred Avon’s traditional cooperative real estate model offers financial and tax benefits while simplifying retirement living. Londonderry is committed to supporting your wellness and active lifestyle. The total wellness of our residents is the key to longevity and quality of life. Come and visit us today or call Rachel Smith at 410.820.8732 to find out how you can start living 1991

years

2026

Your Life, Your Way!

RESIDENT OWNED FOR 35 YEARS

Your Life, Your Way 700 Port Street, Suite 148 • Easton, MD 21601 • 410-820-8732 • www.LondonderryTredAvon.com

Discover the Difference of Teamwork No matter the hazards you may encounter, you can trust we’re there with you with smart financial advice that’s right for you, right when you need it.

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Baird Easton 218 North Washington Street, Suite 37 Easton, MD 21601 410-822-2140 easton.bairdwealth.com

GIVE BACK

Help brighten Christmas for Mid-Shore families

little generosity can bring holiday joy to a neighbor in need. The Star Democrat’s annual Brighter Christmas Fund campaign welcomes tax-deductible donations to help individuals and families across Talbot, Dorchester, Caroline, Kent and Queen Anne’s counties. Applications for assistance are available through each county’s Department of Social Services. Completed applications must reach the fund by Nov. 25, but applicants should follow any earlier deadline set by their local department. Approval letters will not be mailed this year. Applicants should call 410-200-1884 or their local Department of Social Services on Dec. 4 to check their approval status

and arrange gift card pickup. Donors should make checks payable to The Brighter Christmas Fund and mail them to the fund’s current street address. Please use this address, not the former post office box: The Brighter Christmas Fund c/o The Star Democrat 29088 Airpark Drive Easton, MD 21601 Donations also may be placed in the Brighter Christmas Fund box outside The Star Democrat’s lobby door or made through PayPal at stardem.com/ brighter_christmas_fund/donate. Every contribution helps share the spirit of the season with neighbors throughout the Mid-Shore.

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Brighter Christmas Fund 2026 Total donations: $77,565.35 Donors and dedications Renaissance Charitable Foundation Michael & Virginia Borner Anonymous Michael & Virginia Borner Gary & Judith Saluti In memory of our brother, John S. Nash Queen Anne’s Advocates for Youth Hillsboro Queen Anne United Methodist Men Paul S. Carroll Ralph Case In memory of our beloved son, Daniel Duane Dieter, by Duane & Barbara Dieter In loving memory of Wilson & Norma Daffin Anthony & Camille Passarella Della M. Andrew Monica Roll RA & JH Bollman Janet Mackey & Ron Ketter Carole J. Aitchison J & L Grabenstein Foundation, Mr. John Grabenstein & Mrs. Laurie Grabenstein Peace of Mind Mental Health Services LLC Elizabeth Feldman John & Frances Wolfe Patricia Childs Crane VFW - E.E. Streets Memorial Post 5118 Thomas Riehl John Andres In honor of Gavreel and River Robert Murray Idlewild Ruritan Club Janice M. Dudrow, Thread Haven Amy & Richard Meekins In memory of Glen C. Gannon The Sherrill Family Trust Gloria & Jon Files

Orestes & Donna Baez Susan & Mark Hill In memory of S. Carl Roe Martha Horner Anonymous Alpha Delta Kappa MD Xi Chapter Audrey & Stephen Forrer In memory of Josie Halden & Sandra Totten Barbara F. Oxnam Michael Sosler Walter Wright In memory of my wife, Jean J. Clampitt Cindy & Jim Reed Beverly & Eddy Lynch Fox Trucking, Inc. Sharyn & Brian Spector Charles Semans Bob & Genie Burris The Zwanger-Kram Foundation Catherine & J Court Stevenson In memory of Ann P. Yingling Josephine Merrill Gregory Strauch In loving memory of Dad, Paul D. Dieter, by Duane & Barbi Dieter In memory of Richard H. Cooper, Jr., Chris Cooper Watkins, & Bruce R. Levin Anonymous Ann M. Crocker Georgie Morris Garbisch In loving memory of Joanne Magruder In memory of Skip Campbell & Earle Swann Elizabeth Koprowski In memory of Paul & Louise Connolly Lynn & Fred Hildenbrand In loving memory of Wendy Wilson by husband Thomas Wilson

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Roberta Gribbon Judith & Harold Leight Carol W. Armstrong Donald R. Young In memory of Thomas & Jeanette Davis In memory of James J. & James W. Liesener In memory of Maynard & Doris Stewart In memory of Linda Ellis, Community Editor Anonymous Anthony Mohan Dana C. McGrath Carroll J. Waskins In memory of Judy Compton Jeffrey Rice Ann & L. Michael Sweeney Mary C. Klein In loving memory of my mom, Deanie Healy In loving memory of Robert, Jeffery & Regina Culhane Guy & Vara Reeser Doyle & Cathy Cox In memory of: Anne Wildstein, Manuel Wildstein, Constance Phillips, L.C. Phillips & Malcolm Bahrenburg Howard & Kurt Cogle Shirley Walker Michael & Jean Kader Debbie & Gary Molchan In memory of my Bob, two daughters, our families and friends Elaine and Ed Bednarz Talbot County Democratic Forum Austine Clagett In memory of Delia Denny Richard Roundtree Henry Dove Colette Devine Eunice B. Shearer Katherine Slaughter In memory of Richard Kuba, From Dorie, Deb & Sharon Rick & Jan Hynson In loving memory of Ed Brown

In memory of Sharon Murray In honor of our grandsons, Beckett & Sutton Mesko Pat & Bob Hinkel In memory of D. Kirby Metz III In memory of Kirby & Jane Metz Ina Jo & Jim Van Ness Marilyn Carpenter In honor of my Grands and Great Grands Anonymous Melissa Corley St. Mark’s Preschool Sandra Wood Phillip E. Councell Marian & Richard Trippe In memory of Glen & Judy Hickman In memory of Adriene Rudge Skip & Mary McAuliffe Rudolph & Nancy Strickland In memory of Philip & Ann Beaven Ernie & Lynne Chadderton In loving memory of Wayne Monath Talbot County Government Employees In honor of Frank & Liz Herman & Connie Michael & Gail O’Keefe In memory of Connor In honor of Dr. & Mrs. Brad Baker & in memory of Mike Kirby Jack, Molly & Grantot O’Mara Donna & Garey Kostens Martha Horner Phyllis Dell Judith Showalter L. Bradley & Joyce Baker Carter Jump In honor of our grandchildren: Jaxon, Carter & Eleanor Fox In memory of our son, Allen In memory of Charlie Hemming & Gerry Pickering In memory of Al Lawing In memory of Harold & Dorothy Ford

S H O R E M O N T H LY. CO M | S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6

In memory of the Honorable John T. Clark III, District Court Judge, Queen Anne’s County, MD Wesley Hudson Milton Methodist Church Rainbow Committee In loving memory of our dear friend, Bobby Hambleton, In loving memory of John “Poodle” and Mary A. McQuay, In loving memory of “Uncle Pete and Aunt Lois” Tyler, In loving memory of my dad, Lee Callahan, In loving honor of Judy Callahan Woman’s Club of St. Michaels In memory of Kenny Moore & Edith Dulin Moore Easton Utilities Commission Rev. Vernetter Pinder and Congregation at St. Matthew United Methodist Church From Karin and Dick Ramsburg In memory of W. Allen Spurgeon & Dean Ojakli The Employees of Kelly Distributors Kent Schwab Jacqueline Mallin Robert Thomas Margaret Carter In memory of my wife, Jane Swan Mary King In honor of Molly & Jaime Foster Thomas Ledvina Margaret Bryan Stephanie Wishmyer Patricia Miller and Michael Heilman Scotts United Methodist Church Richard & Mary Ann Stephenson Frank & Shirley Foster Talbot County Public School Retired Personnel Association Robert & Judith Amdur Michael J. Fanning Jessie E. Browne Calhoon MEBA Engineering School Alumni Association

GABRIEL TRUNK SHOW Explore the iconic world of Gabriel and discover your new favorite piece!

CHESTER

EASTON

Friday, November 13 10 AM - 6 PM 500 Abruzzi Drive, Chester MD

Saturday, November 14 9 AM - 4 PM 28529 Marlboro Avenue, Easton MD

ALL EVENT PURCHASES OF $1,000 OR MORE are entered to win this Bujukan Bracelet!

PLUS valued at $2,275

Receive a complimentary Bujukan Bracelet Roll with $1,000 purchase or more, while supplies last.

S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6 | S H O R E M O N T H LY. C O M

Greg Haddaway TM

Greg Haddaway Insurance Agency

Please call our office for more information! 817 Arcadia St. Easton, MD 21601

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Factory Authorized Dealer

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S H O R E M O N T H LY. CO M | S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6

Blake Blackston Unit 177 American Legion Auxilary Carol R. Lofstedt Rev. Trust In loving memory of Ed & Betsy Covell United Women in Faith of New Beginnings UMC, Ridgely In memory of Dr. & Mrs. Justin T. Callahan In loving memory of James I. Heikes Larry Pifer In memory of my sister Deborah Collison In honor of Father James Nash, Father Michael Angeloni, & Father Pedro ChalacanGuerrero, SS Peter & Paul Parrish In honor of Dr. Steve & Lynne Harris In honor of David & Carla Hill Cathy & Tom Hill Penny & Jim Reynolds In memory of Jack Yaissle Susan & Paul Haddaway Anonymous Wesley Bible Class, Oxford United Methodist Church Richard Hunt Michael & Carol Hora William & Janis Seegar Mario & Elaine Tama Josephine Harwood Sean Mallin Lori Yates Nancy L. Espenhorst Anonymous In memory of Grace R. Schuyler In memory of Phyllis & Artie Jeffra Mary “Meezi” Hopkins In memory of Aaron & Clarice Rosenfield Bryon & Linda Reilly In memory of W. Burnley & Ann W. Wyatt, In memory of Richard C. Allin, In memory of James Truitt Jim & Linda Barton In memory of Skip Haddaway Jeff & Joanne Beemiller Woody Miller & Lisa Dew In honor of our wonderful

grandchildren: Jaxon, Carter & Eleanor Fox Anonymous Susan & Michael Kopen Alice Michalak Robert Lee Case & Elizabeth Ann Adams In memory of Mike Kirby Raymond & Anita Vergne Kitridge & Joanne Buritsch Mary Jane Wyant Jo Ann Storey In honor of my mother, Marjorie Lyons In loving memory of LeeAnn Undercoffler In memory of our departed loved ones, In honor of our children, grandchildren & friends from Jack & Faye Shannahan Eva Smorzaniuk Bill & Darla Sedgwick In memory of Charlotte Krebs In memory of Bennett W. Haley Colonial Jewelers of Easton Kay Schaar-Wagenblatt In memory of Mark A. Caplan In memory of Greg L. Romain and Robert H. Strong Sr. Willow Construction, LLC

SSPPOORRTTI INNGG LLI IFFEE 22002266 | S H O R E M O N T H LY. C O M

S H O R E M O N T H LY. CO M | S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6

DISCOVER the wild side

of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where hunting traditions run deep. Waterfowl • Turkey • Deer

Easton • Oxford • St. Michaels • Tilghman Island • Trappe

410-770-8000 TourTalbot.org

Save the Date: November 13–15, 2026 S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6 | S H O R E M O N T H LY. C O M

ABOUT THE COVER Bill Whaley is an Eastern Shore based photographer with an incredible portfolio not only of the Shore where he captures family, engagement, wedding and outdoor photos, along with professional photos for area businesses, but also has extensive experience shooting in exotic locales around the world. His featured cover photograph for this Sporting Life edition showcases Gator, a yellow Labrador Retriever hunting in southern Dorchester County, alongside pup Boomer. To learn more visit www.billwhaleyphotography.com 74

S H O R E M O N T H LY. CO M | S P O R T I N G L I F E 2 0 2 6

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