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coastal JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

STYLE

JOURNEY OF PURPOSE A COASTAL COMPOSITION CELEBRATING WOMEN IN H&W

Creativity Inspired by Your Surroundings

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE • DESIGN/BUILD • MAINTENANCE

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At Delmarva Design Center, luxury begins with experience. Backed by three distinguished parent companies with a combined 70 years of excellence, we bring refined craftsmanship and deep industry knowledge to every space. From bespoke cabinetry and premium countertops to elegant tile, high-end appliances, and curated flooring – we create interiors that elevate everyday living.

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Visit our showroom today to begin the design and selection process for your spring project.

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Tilghman Orthodontics

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 Going to the movies   Getting an “A” in History   Having a snow day   The friendly team at 

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What makes you smile?

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2024 LUXURY REAL ESTATE COMPANY

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FINEST REAL ESTATE WORLDWIDE At Engel & Völkers Ocean City, our real estate Advisors are known for their unmatched level of local knowledge paired with extensive global resources and personal connections. We provide an exclusive experience tailored to each of our client’s unique needs and dedicate our time, expertise, and passion to help you follow your dream, home. Learn more at oceancity.evrealestate.com.

5909 Coastal Hwy | Ocean City MD 59th Street on the Bayside in front of Fager’s Island 410.520.4555 Front left to right: Jeanna Terzano, Stephanie DiGristine, Mary Rice, and Lisa Jackson. Back left to right: Rick Foster, Kara Hawkins, and Kevin Heselbach. ©2025 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the Fair Housing Act.

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H+G JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 Photo by Keyanna Bowen

TONE SETTER This house’s palette opts for warm, creamy tones instead of stark whites, which creates a softer, more inviting space overall. This story begins on page 78.

A COASTAL COMPOSITION

EASY ELEGANCE

A Bethany Beach retreat offers oceanfront views, elevates everyday living and brings calm and comfort home.

Layered neutrals, thoughtful millwork and sophisticated details shape a coastal family home, designed to last through the ages.

84 LIVING FOR THE VIEWS

At their new oceanfront home in South Bethany Beach, owners embrace pure coastal living—effortless, elegant and open to the water.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

CONTENTS

42 Photo by Jill Jasuta

Photo by Michael Abramson

30 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

26 THE GOLD STANDARD

The Pohanka Honda of Salisbury team continues to set the bar for excellence.

42 JOURNEY OF PURPOSE

By retracing Harriet Tubman’s route to freedom, Linda Harris discovered her calling.

30 SEEING THE EXTRAORDINARY 48 MONUMENTAL MOMENT Photographer Linda Benzon finds beauty in the unexpected, subtle aspects of nature.

Photo by Jill Jasuta

32 THE RAREST STAGE

52 KEYS TO GOOD HEALTH

34 THE ART OF THE CATCH

WOMEN IN 60 CELEBRATING HEALTH & WELLNESS

Young contest finalists perform concertos backed by the Mid-Atlantic Symphony.

Robbie Chin captures the spirit of the Eastern Shore through the ancient art of gyotaku.

40 INTO THE BLUE

Witness art in motion through evolving photographs that change with every view.

Photo by Jill Jasuta

Easton’s Academy Art Museum unveils a rare, 100-foot masterpiece honoring an artist’s legacy.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

The latest news and advice from TidalHealth, the Shore’s leading healthcare provider.

Explore profiles of dedicated leaders who are shaping the well-being of our community.

90 PARTING SHOT

A Cambridge mainstay reintroduces itself to photographer Jill Jasuta in the snow.

PRINT + DIGITAL LIKE MILK AND COOKIES— GOOD ALONE. UNSTOPPABLE TOGETHER.

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CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

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January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

coastal VOL. 22, NO. 1

STYLE

publishers

JONATHAN & ERIN WESTMAN

advertising

MARIAH COHEE ANDREA ELGIN GRANT L. GURSKY

CUSTOM │ AFFORDABLE │ QUALITY

editor

CHRISTINE EGNER

creative

DENA GRAY MEGAN ROSTA

photography

DANA MARIE BARTHOLOMEW KEYANNA BOWEN STEVE BUCHANAN DANA HOFF JILL JASUTA KRISTA VALLIANT TONY WEEG

editorial

Update your bathroom in as little as one day!

distribution

KRISTEN HAMPSHIRE PHILIP J. WEBSTER TERESA PORTA RICHARD RALPH KEN RYAN

coastal JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

STYLE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

JOURNEY OF PURPOSE

410-835-5243

www.showerglassdoors.net Serving Maryland and Delaware MHIC# 145215

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

ABOUT THE COVER Photo by Keyanna Bowen

An oceanfront Delaware residence provides the ideal setting for an intimate breakfast to start any day.

A COASTAL COMPOSITION CELEBRATING WOMEN IN H&W

PO Box 667, Ocean City, MD 21843 410-205-MAGS • Info@CoastalStyleMag.com CoastalStyleMag.com Coastal Style magazine is published 6 times annually by Coastal Style, Inc. All rights reserved. No content contained within may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publishers.

Insurance Advisors You Can Trust!

I Know the Owner, Too … Because We All Are

Home | Auto | Health Business | Medicare Supplements

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Londonderry: More than owning a home; a community you own.

AveryHall.com

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At Londonderry on the Tred Avon, a 62+ retirement cooperative community, every resident is an owner. From our Board of Directors to our Activities Advisory Committee, residents and team members work together to create the best possible waterfront retirement lifestyle. Here, you’ll never wonder what to do today—there’s always something happening and something new to explore. Residents help shape our social calendar and enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle that makes room for adventure—like our upcoming trip to America’s Cowboy Country.

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DARE TO DREAM NARROW ESCAPE THE FABRIC OF FRIENDSHIP

Call our Sales & Marketing Team today at 410-820-8732.

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700 Port Street, Suite 148 • Easton, MD 21601 410-820-8732 www.LondonderryTredAvon.com January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

Visit our showroom, where you’ll find trusted cars and a warm, friendly welcome. We’re not just selling cars; we’re building relationships that last.

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COVERAGE

Featured Locations

CAR DEALERSHIP

2025

IN THIS ISSUE

SUSSEX COUNTY

302-856-0064 515 N. BEDFORD STREET, GEORGETOWN, DE WWW.MEGEEMOTORS.COM

Your Health & Wellness Headquarters

EASTERN SHORE COMMUNITIES

SUPPLEMENTS, ORGANIC GROCERY NOURISHING GRAB & GO CAFE

C E RT I F I E D N U T R I T I O N S P E C I A L I ST O N S I T E 22

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

THE NEW YEAR IS A TIME FOR RESOLUTIONS. If they include health and wellness improvements, home enhancements or exploring a new personal pursuit, we hope you find inspiration within. We visited eight communities during the production of this issue to bring you stories of people who strive to make the Shore an even better place to live. We wish you a Happy New Year and hope you enjoy this issue. Drop us a line at info@coastalstylemag.com or connect with us on our socials. We’d love to hear from you.

Simply Checking From managing everyday expenses to saving for the unexpected, we’re here to help you with all the things that matter most.

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SELBYVILLE, DE: 302.436.8224 36523 Lighthouse Rd Selbyville DE 19975

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DR. LEIGH AUCHEY

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Friendly Dental Expertise At Delmarva Dental Services, we pride ourselves on being leaders in dental technology and patient communication, proudly serving the Delmarva Peninsula.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

DR. JESSICA HARRISON

DelmarvaDentalServices.com 1310 Belmont Ave | Suite 301 Salisbury, MD 21804 410-742-3000

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POHANKA HONDA OF SALISBURY

The Gold Standard Photography by Krista Valliant

THE POHANKA HONDA OF SALISBURY TEAM CONTINUES TO SET THE BAR FOR AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE IN THE REGION

W From left: Parts Manager Brian Catlin, Sales Manager Caleb Moore, Sales Manager Taylor Bounds, General Manager Jared Algier, Vice President Brett Siock, Pre-Owned Manager Bryan Perdue, Service Manager Matt Graves

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

hen you visit Pohanka Honda of Salisbury, you aren’t just visiting a dealership; you are stepping into a hub of automotive expertise that is unrivaled in the district. As the No. 1 Certified Honda Dealer in the region, Pohanka Honda has cemented its reputation as the leader in quality and reliability. While their lot boasts the largest Honda inventory on the Eastern Shore—featuring a massive selection of new, used and certified pre-owned favorites like the CR-V, Pilot, Accord and Civic—it is the people behind the vehicles that truly define the Pohanka experience. “We are focusing entirely on the experience of our staff because that directly translates to the experience of our customers,” says General Manager Jared Algier. This commitment is evident in their showroom, which houses the most Honda Gold Certified sales consultants in the area. These aren't just salespeople; they are industry experts with the longest tenure of any sales staff on the entire Pohanka Complex. When you buy here, you are guided by professionals who have made a career out of helping our community find the perfect vehicle.

PARTNERED CONTENT

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POHANKA HONDA OF SALISBURY

Sales Managers Eli Haynie and Hayley Toadvine with Finance Manager Brian Lee

Pohanka Profile: Matt Graves Guiding the Eastern Shore’s top-ranked service team is Service Manager Matt Graves. Although he joined the Salisbury team just eight months ago, Matt is a veteran of the Pohanka automotive family with a proven track record of excellence. His career began seven years ago at Pohanka of Tomball in Texas, where he started as a Service Lane Manager. Through dedication to customer satisfaction and operational excellence, he was promoted to Service Manager before bringing his talents to Maryland. Matt’s leadership philosophy focuses on empowering his tenured staff to deliver the “nextlevel experience” Pohanka customers have come to expect.

The New 2026 Honda Passport The all-new 2026 Honda Passport redefines adventure for the modern explorer. With a rugged "Born Wild" design and standard i-VTM4® all-wheel drive, it delivers the most capable off-road performance in the model's history. A spacious, techforward cabin features best-in-class rear legroom and Google built-in integration. The adventurous TrailSport trim elevates capability with all-terrain tires and steel skid plates, while the powerful V6 engine ensures you are ready for any journey.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE From left: JJ Abbott, Jeff Dale, Charlie Staffeldt, Rob Goldbach, Correy Chew, Chris Beach, Bryan Polk, Dave Carpenter, Finance Manager Josh Daugherty, Finance Manager Nikki Nize and JR Adkins

The No. 1 Service Department on the Shore The commitment to longevity and expertise is perhaps most visible in the service lanes. Ranked as the No. 1 Service Department on the Eastern Shore, Pohanka Honda offers a level of mechanical care that competitors simply cannot match. This ranking is driven by the team’s incredible depth of knowledge; they currently boast the most tenured service staff in the region. When you bring your vehicle to Pohanka, it is being cared for by a team of Senior and Master Technicians who have spent years mastering the intricacies of Honda engineering. This tenure ensures that diagnostics are accurate, repairs are efficient, and your vehicle is returned to you in peak condition. Beyond technical skill, the department is designed for ultimate convenience. Understanding that your time is valuable, they offer a host of client-first amenities, including vehicle pick-up and delivery, complimentary vehicle health inspections, and a complimentary car wash with every service. Whether you are coming in for a complex repair or a no-appointment-necessary oil change, you get the peace of mind that comes with the Shore’s most experienced hands. CS

POHANKA HONDA OF SALISBURY 410-749-2301 • PohankaHondaMD.com

PARTNERED CONTENT

2025

Helping clients look and feel their best!

SKIN ENHANCEMENT (LASERS/INJECTABLES) WICOMICO COUNTY

We offer a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance your natural beauty and support overall wellness. $750 VALUE Purchase a Bikini or Brazilian laser hair removal package and receive under arm treatment free

443.614.4105 coastal-aesthetics.com Salisbury & Ocean Pines Locations

Authentic Italian Cooking WITH THE FRESHEST INGREDIENTS

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SellosOC.com January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

The Arts

Written by Kristen Hampshire Photography by Jill Jasuta

PHOTOGRAPHER LINDA BENZON FINDS BEAUTY IN THE UNEXPECTED, CAPTURES THE SUBTLE WONDERS OF NATURE AND TURNS EVERYDAY MOMENTS INTO ART

Seeing the Extraordinary

n eye for the unusual serves as a transformational guide for Linda Benzon’s photographic journeys, which are centered on “learning to see” the granular, the unexpected—the lines, forms and flow that nature offers. Linda is a Lewes-based photographer whose imagery invites viewers to travel the region’s wildlife trails, surf the tides, meander along the beach and take in boardwalk sunsets. The Eastern Shore is ripe with material. “There are so many beautiful places right at my fingertips,” she relates. Linda’s work will be on display at the Rehoboth Art League Regional Juried Photographic Exhibition from Jan. 9 to Feb. 8, and at the Milton Arts Guild from Jan. 13 to Feb. 24. Linda uses the word “calm” to describe her photographic art. “Life can be chaotic and painful,” she says. “I believe we all need to surround ourselves with art that helps us retreat a bit. Photography for me is a retreat. That is what I seek out and what I like to share with other people.”

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

A Trained Eye Linda didn’t come to photography chasing a shot but, instead, she focused on learning how to look. After retiring from an accounting business in 2011, she returned to photography with intention. At the same time, her son Jeffrey had launched a commercial photography career of his own. His advice: “Just go out and shoot.” So, armed with a Nikon DSLR and curiosity, Linda did exactly that. “Basically, every day for several years I went out with a camera,” she says. Also, early momentum came through a beginner photography class at the Carlisle Arts Learning Center. “The gentleman who taught it—Guy Freeman—was all about seeing and learning to see.” The exercises were deceptively simple. “One assignment was to go out and look for faces,” Linda says. “But not faces in the traditional sense.” She found them in patterns—the texture of a bathroom rug, the curve of an object. “Another assignment was to look for the letter J,” Linda relates. “So, I learned to look beyond the obvious.” That shift reshaped everything. “Now, I’m not just looking for the cool bluebird shot,” she explains. “What is it about the background or the posture or the behavior that tells a story?” On a walk through a wooded neighborhood trail, she noticed sharp tree shadows crossing a path layered in pine needles. “For me it became about the lines and angles more than the beautiful leaves. How do I capture something that helps others see what I just saw and appreciate it?” Beauty Everywhere Linda’s photography has naturally gravitated toward landscapes and the natural world. “Most of the time I’m not planning to go somewhere to shoot a certain thing,” she says. “I’m going out and enjoying what is around me and I’m ready for whatever I come across.” From woodland trails near her home to Cape Henlopen, Prime Hook, Bombay Hook, Blackwater and Assawoman Bay, the region continues to shape Linda’s work. When she’s not photographing, she and her husband spend time outside. “We go to the beach, ride our bikes and most of the time I have a camera with me,” she says. CS

HIGH CHOLESTEROL? HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE? From Early Signs to Full Recovery, We’re With You. Concerned about your heart health? Early signs like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fatigue, or shortness of breath can be unsettling. At Beebe Cardiology Lewes, we offer personalized, comprehensive general cardiology care to understand your unique health journey. From initial screenings and medication management to lifestyle education and ongoing support, we partner with you every step of the way. As part of the Beebe Cardiovascular Institute, Beebe Cardiology Lewes is proud to collaborate within an integrated, evidence-based team of over 30 skilled physicians and advanced practice clinicians.

Beebe Cardiology Lewes 431 Savannah Road, Suite C, Lewes Your journey to a healthier heart starts here. Call to schedule an appointment.

302-644-4282 January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

coastal

THE ARTS

The Rarest Stage THE ELIZABETH LOKER INTERNATIONAL CONCERTO COMPETITION IS THE ONLY CONTEST WORLDWIDE WHERE FINALISTS PERFORM THEIR CONCERTOS BACKED BY A FULL PROFESSIONAL ORCHESTRA— THE MID-ATLANTIC SYMPHONY— UNDER GRAMMY-WINNING DIRECTION Written by Philip J. Webster

here is no other musical event on the Delmarva Peninsula quite like the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra’s Elizabeth Loker International Concerto Competition. Held annually, this year’s event will take place on March 15 at 3 p.m. at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills. This competition is a rare occasion for young musicians ages 12 to 25. Ultimately, three finalists will be selected to compete as instrumental soloists, accompanied by the entire 40-plus-musician MidAtlantic Symphony Orchestra (MSO), conducted by Music Director Michael Repper, a 2023 Grammy winner and 2025 two-time Grammy nominee. In the last two years, 270 young musicians from 27 states and 16 countries have competed in the Loker Competition. Violinist Rebecca “Poppy” Song, winner of the 2023 competition, said of the experience, “I was blown away. It was an amazing and unreal experience. Playing with a full symphony orchestra was like performing with millions of maestros.” Harpist Rebekah Hou, the 2024 winner, was amazed by the audience: “It was a complete surprise to me that the MSO audience was so open to hearing a different kind of music—basically a harp solo. The competition was an awesome experience.”

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

“All the competitors are so talented and exhibit extraordinary technical proficiency. What we look for beyond that is their ability to move you as an audience.” — MICHAEL REPPER

Twenty semifinalists are chosen from all applicants (through submitted video performance recordings) by a five-judge panel of Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra principal musicians. The three finalists are selected by Music Director Michael Repper, who sums up what the judges look for: “All the competitors are so talented and exhibit extraordinary technical proficiency. What we look for beyond that is their ability to move you as an audience.” The young musicians compete for $5,000, $2,500, and $1,000 awards, as well as a $500 Audience Choice Award selected in an electronic poll at the concert’s end. The three finalists are judged in concert by a renowned national panel. Tickets for the competition concert are available at midatlanticsymphony.org. Music students recommended by their band or orchestra directors or teachers will receive complimentary tickets to the event as part of the MSO’s educational outreach program. CS

coastal

THE ARTS

The Art of the Catch BLENDING A FARMER'S REVERENCE WITH THE ANCIENT ART OF GYOTAKU, ROBBIE CHIN CAPTURES THE SPIRIT OF THE EASTERN SHORE, PROVING THE STUDIO IS LESS A PLACE AND MORE A MINDSET Photography by Jill Jasuta

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

2025

Kitchen Designs

2025

or Robbie Chin, the art studio is not defined by four walls or a specific address. Instead, he views the studio as a “personal state of mind with elementary craft supplies.” Whether he is working at a dining room table, on the tailgate of a pickup truck, in a friend’s garage at 1 a.m., or on a dock enjoying the last warm days of the season, the location is secondary to the intention. Wherever Robbie connects with a catch, his goal is to display an act of pure appreciation, reverence and honorable purpose. This practice is the heart of Eastern Shore Gyotaku, Robbie’s exploration of the traditional Japanese art of fish printing. For Robbie, the process begins long before the ink touches the paper. It starts with ikigai, a Japanese concept of “knowing your reason for waking up.” His daily practice is rooted in gratitude—a thankfulness for breath and a new chance at life that serves as his opportunity to artistically and meaningfully document his subjects. Gyotaku is instinctive for Robbie. He doesn’t view the scent of his workspace as merely fishy, but rather as the fresh smell of a new connection, reminiscent of the water the fish came from. He describes the sensation of feeling the life-giving water transfer into the ink and hydrate the subtle crinkles of the paper like “hearing your favorite song on repeat” and feeling it just as deeply as the first time. Robbie’s approach to his art is deeply influenced by his background in agriculture. He views the world through a farmer’s lens, a perspective that has taught him to appreciate both life and its impermanence. A graduate of Salisbury University with a degree in environmental studies and business management, Robbie sees the biological world as inescapably woven into our physical and economic needs.

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THE ARTS

“Nurturing a seed to sale is a miracle and a tedious labor of unwavering love,” Robbie says, drawing a direct line between farming and harvesting fish. For him, a gyotaku print is not just a painting; it is a harvest report that represents food, community and culture. This reverence ensures that nothing goes to waste—he emphasizes that he wouldn’t practice gyotaku if he couldn’t eat and enjoy the sustenance offered through the sacrifice of life. The artistic process itself is a balance of boldness and vulnerability. Robbie admits that every time he begins, he feels a mix of fear and anxiety disguised as calm confidence. He relies on the Japanese principles of kaizen, getting 1% better every day, and wabisabi, the acceptance of imperfection. DEEPLY MEANINGFUL

Robbie Chin balances a range of emotions while practicing gyotaku—all with a profound personal connection to the traditional Japanese art form.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

Put Your Future Somewhere with Deep Roots Where longstanding local trust meets modern financial strength.

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January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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THE ARTS

“I’m surprised every time I peel the paper back,” Robbie says, noting the raw beauty of that initial black pressing. Once the print is made, he transitions into the detailing phase, often painting the eye last. He describes this stage as the “OG coloring book,” where he acts as an instrument guided to bring memories back into clear view. While Robbie has mastered many species, he admits the iconic Maryland blue crab remains a challenge due to its hard shell and three-dimensional shape. After some lessthan-successful attempts with soft shells, he plans to dedicate 2026 to experimenting with this cornerstone species of the Eastern Shore economy. Ultimately, Robbie sees his art as a vehicle for connection. In his role at Salisbury University, he runs the Powerful Connections peer mentoring program, helping students build community—a mission that parallels his art. Eastern Shore Gyotaku is his way of honoring the culture of the Shore, connecting people to a place, a memory or a lifestyle they yearn to feel deeply. “The one thing that isn’t surprising,” Robbie says, “is how amazing that fish tastes after taking the time to relish everything about it.” CS

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

Kevin Fitzgerald

410-632-1911 • KevinFitzgeraldPainter.com

“Autumn Light” 11X23

2025

Quality Kitchens. Beautiful Bathrooms. Exceptional Homes.

HANDYMAN SERVICES

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WICOMICO COUNTY

HOME REMODELING COMPANY WICOMICO COUNTY

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | NEW HOME BUILDS delmarvabuildingsolutions.com | Salisbury, MD | 410.200.8993 January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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THE ARTS

Into the Blue WITNESS ART IN MOTION AS ARTIST JOHN STECK JR. TURNS LOCAL BOTANICALS AND SUNLIGHT INTO EVOLVING PHOTOGRAPHS THAT CHANGE WITH EVERY VIEW Works by John Steck Jr.

Nocturne in Blue debuts January 9 at Rehoboth Art League.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

ehoboth Art League (RAL) invites art enthusiasts to embrace an exhibition with a unique twist. Kicking off the new year, alongside the 11th Regional Juried Photography Exhibition, running Jan. 9 through Feb. 8, 2026, the gallery will feature a captivating showcase by the exhibition’s awards judge, John Steck Jr., a Baltimore-based artist whose work refuses to sit still. Nocturne in Blue consists of two different elements. The first is longduration cyanotypes that are in process, which are exposed/made during the entire exhibition. The prints are made with flowers and plant materials foraged from the area. The second element of the exhibition is recently made cyanotypes— distinctive blue-hued images created without a camera. John is a visual artist and educator who originally hails from Chicago. He is a maker of photographic images and ephemeral objects. Using light-sensitive emulsions, he creates photographs that both fade and form over time. This work addresses our complex relationship with time, memory and impermanence. John serves as the photography coordinator and senior lecturer at Johns Hopkins University. His accomplishments include a BFA from Massachusetts College of Art and Design, an MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute and exhibitions in six countries. In a process that feels deeply connected to the land, John forages for local flora—gathering plants and blooms— and places them directly onto lightsensitive surfaces. These pieces are then exposed to natural light for weeks. The result? Images that slowly emerge and evolve in real time.

2022

LUNCH SUSSEX COUNTY

2022

Visual artist John Steck Jr. creates photographic images and ephemeral objects through the use of light-sensitive emulsions that fade and form as time passes.

2025

IN LIVING COLOR

CRAB CAKES SUSSEX COUNTY

2016-2025

During the opening reception on Friday, Jan. 9 from 5-7 p.m., visitors will see these works at one stage of their life, while those returning later in the exhibition may find the images have shifted, faded or deepened. It is a rare opportunity to witness artwork in the act of becoming. RAL will host a Gallery Talk: From the judge with John Steck on Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. By treating photographs as impermanent objects rather than fixed records, John reinforces that the beauty of nature is transitory and that light never appears the same twice. CS

Thank you for your continued support! Woody’s Dewey Beach has been serving the best crab cakes and burgers at the beach since 2009.

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January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

Journey of Purpose

P+P L

inda Harris knows the Underground Railroad not only as history, but also as terrain— blistering pavement, wooded backroads, quiet towns and moments of fear, grace and a spiritual pull that reshaped how she moves through the world. In 2020, during the isolation of the pandemic and amid national reckoning, Linda walked 158 miles from Dorchester County, Maryland, to Philadelphia, retracing Harriet Tubman’s path to freedom. What began as a personal

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

BY RETRACING HARRIET TUBMAN’S ROUTE TO FREEDOM, LINDA HARRIS DISCOVERED A CALLING ROOTED IN MOVEMENT, MUSIC, HISTORY AND CONNECTION Written by Kristen Hampshire Photography by Jill Jasuta

response to unrest became a defining passage that altered her sense of duty, resilience and purpose. “There were times I felt I was being carried,” Linda says of the journey she now calls “We Walk With Harriet.” “There is something very mystical and spiritual about breathing in fresh air and walking in the footsteps of your ancestors.” That embodied experience—the fatigue, the terrain, the fear and the profound moments of connection—now informs

everything Linda does as director of events and programs at the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center. It also fuels her work as a jazz vocalist, where she performs freedom songs once used as coded messages of survival and escape. “I connected my life to the life of my ancestors,” she says. “And I realized that my life was pretty extraordinary given what they dealt with. I feel a real obligation to give back.”

The Call To Walk Before the walk, Linda had already lived several lives. She retired in 2019 after 33 years in real estate development and management, helping apartment-building owners in distressed areas purchase properties and form cooperatives in the Washington, D.C., area. When she retired, Linda planned to focus on music. “I wanted to become a musician and singer,” she says. She began piano lessons, studied at the New York Jazz Academy and traveled to New Orleans. Then came two international performance opportunities. But both were abruptly canceled because of the pandemic. Her reaction to lockdown was movement. “My response to COVID was not sheltering in place, but getting out and walking,” she says. As streets emptied, she walked more. One night in 2020, watching coverage of George Floyd, everything shifted. “It startled me for the first time in my life,” Linda says. “I felt like he was my relative—my brother, my cousin.” Her father had given her a children’s book when she was 10. That night, it seemed to glow on the bookshelf, she says. “It was called ‘A Runaway Slave,’ and it was about Harriet Tubman,” she relates. “I thought, this is some kind of sign.” Linda had never been to Cambridge. Still, she felt compelled to go. “I felt the spirit of Harriet Tubman and the ancestors as soon as I crossed the bridge,” Linda recalls. “Something extraordinary happened.” Miles of Reckoning At first, Linda decided she would walk the Underground Railroad route on her own. Then she reconsidered, mainly due to safety concerns. The decision to open the walk up to other determined women ultimately opened doors for those moved by her mission to join the journey. Linda trained throughout the summer of 2020, steadily increasing distance. “One day I walked 20 miles,” she says. “I was increasing by 10 percent every day.” She posted on Facebook asking if anyone wanted to walk with her. Twenty women responded. The group eventually became seven and in September 2020, they set out. “We walked 20 miles a day for eight days,” Linda says, relating how the women formed a common bond and came from all walks of life. Linda, then 65, was the oldest. Among them were attorneys, a college professor and a nurse. “We said we were walking off our woes.”

A MOVING MOVEMENT

As Linda Harris walked more than 150 miles in the footsteps of Harriet Tubman along the Underground Railroad, supporters along the way offered food, money and encouragement. Social media followers and news media documented the journey as well.

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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PEOPLE + PLACES

“When we do the walks for the museum, we do musical narrations. We sing the code songs... This is the most beautiful, amazing work at this point in my life.” — LINDA HARRIS

They kept journals. They moved through farmland, small towns, stretches of beauty and moments of threat. On day two, they stopped in a field to rest. Two men approached with shotguns. “They called me ‘gal’ and told us to move right now,” Linda says. As the women walked away, the men followed in their truck, hurling racial slurs. “It was terrifying,” Linda says. “Even when you do what you think are all the right things, bad things can happen.” Another encounter came with police intimidation. “The officer had his hand on his holster,” she says. “I said, ‘Why do you have your hand on your gun?’” Each incident clarified the present-day stakes of a historic walk. “It took me out of my bubble,” Linda says. “It changed me so much.” Being Carried By day four of “We Walk With Harriet,” Linda was exhausted and unsure whether she could continue. Early that morning, she splashed cold water on her face. “I looked in the mirror, and I saw Harriet Tubman’s face,” she says. Linda, who habitually meditates to center herself, was in awe of the vision encouraging her from a hotel bathroom. “The instruction was to get up and get this done,” she says. The final days felt guided. “I felt like I could hear horses’ hooves,” she says of being transported back into history, back to Harriet Tubman’s walk. “I felt as if horses were carrying us and making certain that we finished.”

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Along the route, strangers appeared with water, money, meals and motivation. A truck driver pulled over to recommend ice cream and insisted they take cash. At Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, a crowd waited. “People were cheering for us,” Linda says, reliving a sense of joy shared among the women walkers and those supporting the journey. By the time the walk ended, “We Walk With Harriet” had amassed thousands of social media followers. News coverage followed. More importantly, connections were forged and continue growing today.

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IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

Linda is overseeing the recreation of the Underground Railroad inside the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center in Cambridge.

Stewarding the Story Today, Linda shares history through both movement and music. A jazz vocalist, she performs “Songs of Freedom,” researching and singing spirituals once used as coded communication during enslavement. “When we do the walks for the museum, we do musical narrations,” she says. “We sing the code songs.” Her husband, musician David B. Cole, joins with banjo. Together, they offer guided history walks paired with songs. Last year, they led 79 walks; the year before, 175. Meanwhile, at the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center, Linda joins Director Bill Jarmon in helping bring the historic walk indoors. After a flood forced the museum to close temporarily, she saw an opportunity.

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“I saw the empty museum and thought, let’s recreate the Underground Railroad inside of our museum,” she relates. In collaboration with artist Michael Rosato, plans include immersive walls depicting Harriet Tubman’s journey, soil underfoot, a narrated history, music and lighting, including falling stars inspired by the meteor shower Tubman described as a spiritual sign. Rosato painted the museum’s exterior mural, a visual representation of Tubman’s 1854 journey north. The back of the museum will house a “story room” with Linda sharing perspective and history while inviting visitors to share and connect. Reflecting on the walk that led Linda to this Cambridge destination, she says: “This is the most beautiful, amazing work at this point in my life.” And Linda continues to walk, sing, teach and guide, carrying the past forward step by step. “It really was a miracle,” she says. CS

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Monumental Moment

Robert Rauschenberg with Chinese Summerhall (1982-83), Rauschenberg on Greene Street: Kabal American Zephyr, Japanese Clayworks, Japanese Recreational Clayworks, 7 Characters, Chinese Summerhall, simultaneous exhibitions at Leo Castelli Gallery and Sonnabend Gallery, New York, NY, United States, December 31, 1982 or January 1983. Photo: Michael Abramson. Photograph Collection. Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Archives, New York.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

CELEBRATING THE WORLDWIDE RAUSCHENBERG CENTENNIAL, EASTON’S ACADEMY ART MUSEUM UNVEILS A RARE, 100-FOOT MASTERPIECE HONORING THE ARTIST’S LEGACY AND HIS CREATIVE TIES TO THE EASTERN SHORE

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Inset: Donald Saff and Robert Rauschenberg with Party Line (Arcadian Retreat) (1996) in the artist’s studio on Captiva Island, FL, 1996. Courtesy Saff Tech Arts, Oxford, MD. Photo: George Holzer

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Unrolling History: The 100-Foot Masterpiece The undisputed anchor of this exhibition is a work of art so ambitious in scale and delicate in constitution that it has achieved nearly mythical status in the art world. Visitors will stand before Chinese Summerhall (1982), a monumental, one-hundred-foot-long color photographic panorama. For art enthusiasts, this is a once-in-alifetime opportunity. The piece is one of Rauschenberg’s most fragile works and is rarely exhibited because of its sheer size and sensitivity. In fact, while the work debuted at the Leo Castelli Gallery in 1982 (hand-carried to the opening by Rauschenberg himself), it has only been presented to the public once before. It has never been displayed in its entirety until now. Securing this loan from the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation is no small feat. The Foundation is highly selective regarding loans of this magnitude due to specialized installation requirements and conservation complexities. Easton’s inclusion in this centennial tour is a major nod to the Academy Art Museum’s reputation and curatorial excellence.

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he Eastern Shore has long been a sanctuary for creatives, a landscape where the tranquility of the water fosters deep artistic contemplation. But this winter, the Academy Art Museum in Easton is trading peacefulness for a roar of international acclaim. In a cultural coup that underscores our region’s sophistication, the museum is serving as a focal point for the worldwide centennial celebration of American art icon Robert Rauschenberg. The exhibition, titled Rauschenberg 100: New Connections, is not merely a retrospective; it is an immersive exploration of a groundbreaking artist who believed that art could build bridges across cultures and generations. Running through May 3, this show brings a global spotlight to Talbot County, offering a rare glimpse into the artist’s lifelong spirit of experimentation.

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January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Inside Rauschenberg 100: New Connections at Academy Art Museum. Don Saff and wife Ruth Saff attend Robert Rauschenberg Centennial Gathering and birthday celebration.

The Eastern Shore Connection Why Easton? The answer lies in a friendship that bridged geography and genre. The exhibition highlights the creative partnership between Rauschenberg and master printmaker Donald Saff, a longtime resident of the Eastern Shore. Saff, who maintained a home and studio locally, was instrumental in Rauschenberg’s artistic journey, particularly during the artist’s first travels to China. Chinese Summerhall offers an extraordinary look at that specific journey. The exhibition traces how these encounters abroad—and collaborations that spanned from Florida to Maryland—sparked new ways to continue to shape contemporary art today. To deepen this local narrative, the exhibition features a documentary titled 100 Foot Photo Movie, directed by Matt Kresling. Presented in collaboration with the Chesapeake Film Festival, the film chronicles the making of Chinese Summerhall and features commentary from Saff and other collaborators, offering an intimate look at the human effort behind the masterpiece. A Curated Experience While the panoramic photograph captures the headlines, the exhibition, curated by Lee Glazer, offers a comprehensive dialogue between the artist and the museum. Visitors will encounter more than 20 works from the Academy Art Museum’s own collection displayed alongside the monumental loan. The show invites audiences to experience Rauschenberg’s conviction that art is not a solitary act, but a method of connection. Take advantage of the opportunity to experience Rauschenberg 100: New Connections—it promises to be the cultural event of the season in Talbot County. CS

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

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January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

What is urogynecology? By Peter G. O’Hare, III, MD, URPS, FACOG TidalHealth Urogynecology As a urogynecologist, I treat female patients who have pelvic floor disorders, which can include:

for someone to seek medical treatment. We want you to feel comfortable sharing what’s going on with us.

• Bladder dysfunction • Bowel dysfunction • Pelvic organ prolapse • Sexual function • Hormonal imbalances Peter G. O’Hare, III, MD, URPS, FACOG TidalHealth Urogynecology

• Menopausal problems

You’ve likely heard of urology and gynecology, but how about urogynecology? Urogynecology is the field of medicine I specialize in, and I’m now seeing patients at TidalHealth Urogynecology in Ocean Pines.

Concerns can vary. For example, a woman could have problems emptying her bladder or problems holding her bladder. Even if it seems common, urinary leakage is not just part of life for women — it can be treated.

Urogynecology is a newer field that combines urology, gynecology and colorectal surgery. Board certification was first offered in 2013, and I was part of the third class to be trained as a fellow to earn the board certification in urogynecology.

• Urinary tract infections

According to the National Association for Continence, about half of women experience incontinence, but only a quarter of women bring concerns about leaking up to their healthcare practitioners, and it can take six or more years

Sometimes, pelvic floor issues are connected, and we can take a comprehensive and personalized approach to treat your symptoms. Treatment can range from exercises (which we can help you ensure you’re doing correctly) to medications, pessaries (insertable devices that help with pelvic organ prolapse), injections and even robotic surgery if needed. Nurse Practitioner Logan Nalesnik, APRN, FNP-C, and I also provide routine gynecologic care, as long as you do not need obstetric care. We see patients of all ages. While these problems may not be life-threatening, they can certainly be lifestyle-limiting. In our practice, we strive to improve patients’ quality of life.

TidalHealth Urogynecology is located at 11107 Cathage Road, Suite 103, Berlin, MD 21811, on the TidalHealth Ocean Pines Campus. Set up an appointment by calling 410-912-5674 or visiting tidalhealth.org/peter-ohare

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Seven tips for keeping your bladder healthy By Peter G. O’Hare, III, MD, URPS, FACOG TidalHealth Urogynecology Your bladder might be something you don’t think too much about until you need to use the bathroom without one in sight — or if you’re having a problem. Here are my tips for ways women can keep their bladders healthy. Stay hydrated. I recommend drinking about 50 ounces of a neutral fluid — like water — each day. Drinks to avoid or limit include heavily caffeinated beverages, alcohol and carbonated drinks. If you do have one of those types of drinks, drink water afterward.

Keep your body healthy. Keeping your body healthy can help keep your bladder healthy. Diet and exercise are important for bladder and overall health. Women who are obese are putting more pressure on their pelvic floor, which can lead to pelvic floor concerns. Don’t hold urine too long. It’s not always convenient to use the bathroom during work, especially for those in roles like nursing and teaching, so some have trained their bladder not to empty. The longer this goes on, the more of a problem it can cause. It’s important to stop habits like this before they lead to problems like bladder dysfunction and having to urinate more often later in life. Don’t rush urine out. Basically, you need to let your bladder do what it requires naturally — don’t hold urine in, but don’t force it out, either. Trying to get urine out as quickly as possible, also known as Valsalva voiding, is not healthy for the bladder. Do what you can to avoid urinary tract infections. It’s common to have the occasional urinary tract infection, and in young, healthy women, they will often go away on their own. However, you should seek medical treatment if you get UTIs more than twice a year or experience problems such as fever or back pain with a UTI. One tip for decreasing the risk of UTIs is to flush out the system with water after sexual activity.

To see a specialist about a bladder-related or pelvic floor concern, women can call TidalHealth Urogynecology, located in Ocean Pines, at 410912-5674. Men can call TidalHealth Urology in Salisbury at 410-912-6716 or in Seaford at 302-990-3300.

Be aware of abnormalities. If you see blood in your urine — and what you’re seeing isn’t your usual menstrual cycle — you should see a urogynecologist to find out what’s causing it. Know what is healthy. Most people urinate about five to seven times during waking hours, and once or less at night. If you are urinating often or waking up throughout the night to urinate, you should raise your concerns with a urogynecologist. Similarly, leaking urine, while common, does not have to be an expected part of life after giving birth or while aging, and that can be treated.

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Hydration is key in the colder months, too By Danielle Giddins, MD TidalHealth Primary Care

Stay on top of your health with a primary care practitioner. Find one near you at tidalhealth.org/schedule.

Danielle Giddins, MD TidalHealth Primary Care

Hydration isn’t just a summer concern — it’s essential for daily wellness throughout the year. Water supports nearly every function in the body: regulating temperature, transporting nutrients, lubricating joints, protecting organs, and aiding digestion and waste removal. Even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, dizziness, poor focus and constipation, which can be mistaken for other issues. Hydration benefits Your brain relies on water to stay sharp; staying hydrated can lead to better mood, alertness and concentration. If you’re feeling foggy or irritable, dehydration could be the cause. Hydration also leads to benefits in physical performance by boosting endurance, reducing cramps and speeding recovery, helping you stay active and energized.

Well-hydrated skin is more elastic, less prone to dryness and heals better. That radiant glow? It starts from within. Water can also support weight management by curbing hunger, boosting metabolism and aiding digestion. Often, thirst is mistaken for hunger.

Try the following tips: • Carry a reusable water bottle • Sip regularly throughout the day • Try infusing water with fruits or herbs for flavor • Use reminders or hydration apps • Drink water before meals

Make it a priority In the winter, cold air and indoor heating can dry you out, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Spring and fall bring allergy season and increased outdoor activity, both of which require more fluids. And of course, summer heat and sweating increase fluid loss, making hydration critical. If you struggle to drink enough water, there are plenty of simple strategies to help.

• Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon and oranges. Hydration is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support your overall health. Making it a daily priority will help you feel more energized, focused and resilient.

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Get the care you need when it matters most At TidalHealth, our team of experienced, patient-focused practitioners are committed to giving you the comprehensive individualized healthcare you deserve. We specialize in preventative visits, chronic illness management, and a wide range of medical services tailored to fit your specific 56

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

needs. Experience the difference at TidalHealth. We believe in delivering quality medical care backed by personalized attention and trust. Please call your practice of choice or visit tidalhealth.org/careforlife.

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Practitioners at the following locations are accepting new patients: Delaware

Maryland

Bridgeville 9111 Antique Alley, Unit 1 Bridgeville, DE 302-297-2581 Raheel Awan, MD (ages 18+)

Berlin 9950 Main St. Berlin, MD 410-912-6710 Ana Deem, DNP (ages 12+) Megan Tyndall, NP (ages 5+)

TidalHealth Family Medicine Residency Clinic 1315 S. Division St. Salisbury, MD 410-543-7720 (ages 0+)

Crisfield 201 Hall Highway Crisfield, MD 410-968-1801 Michael Atkins, MD (ages 17+)

Ocean Pines 10614 Racetrack Road Suite 5 Berlin, MD 410-208-9761 Katie Morris, NP (ages 18+) Eugide Othepa, MD (ages 0+)

Delmar 38552 Sussex Highway, Unit 101 Delmar, DE 302-297-2583 Stuart Hensley, NP (ages 16+) Faith Lauer, NP (ages 0+) Georgetown 503 W. Market St. Georgetown, DE 302-297-2587 Umme Ferdaush, MD (ages 18+) Lewes 1526 Savannah Road Lewes, DE 302-297-2431 Kunal Agarwal, MD (ages 12+) Helen Merrick, NP (ages 18+) Maritza Parreno, MD (ages 18+) Millsboro 30265 Commerce Drive Suite 206 & 207 Millsboro, DE 302-732-8400 Rina Ghorpade, MD (ages 18+) Seaford 100 Rawlins Drive Seaford, DE 302-990-3300 Ghazaleh Barghgir, MD (ages 0+)

Ocean Pines 11101 Cathage Road Suite 102 Berlin, MD 410-912-6104 Kristen Abbott, NP (ages 0+) Leah Fetzer, NP (ages 5+)

Ocean City 1001 Philadelphia Ave. Ocean City, MD 410-289-6241 G.W. Smith, PA (ages 18+)

Salisbury 1639 Woodbrooke Drive Salisbury, MD 410-912-5785 Jason Coleman, MD (pediatrics) Carrie Dawes, NP (pediatrics) Ahmad Nawa, MD (ages 18+) TidalHealth Edward Q. Wilgus Community Clinic 805 E. Church St. Salisbury, MD 410-543-7717 (ages 18+)

West Fenwick 37464 Lion Drive Suite 2 Selbyville, DE 302-564-0004 January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

How to set a reasonable weight loss goal By Sandra Palavecino, MD TidalHealth Medical Weight Loss & Bariatric Nutrition Rather than using a body mass index, or BMI, number as the reason to lose weight, what’s more important is the complications someone’s excess weight is causing them— for example, arthritis and MASLD, as mentioned, or other health concerns, like diabetes and high cholesterol.

will vary based on each person and their habits, but some measurable ideas include: • Increase steps by 500 over the average per day • Don’t eat in the car • Don’t eat after dinner

Sandra Palavecino, MD TidalHealth Medical Weight Loss & Bariatric Nutrition

Step one in a weight loss journey is deciding you’re ready to begin that journey. But then, how do you set your weight loss goal? A good place to start is with the first 3 to 5 percent of your weight. While this might not sound like a lot, losing even that first 5 percent will help improve someone’s sugar metabolism, the process that converts sugar to energy. After completing that first goal, if you need to lose additional weight, you can move on to a goal of 15 to 20 percent of the starting weight. Obesity is a chronic disease, and this step can help improve complications that come with obesity, like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as fatty liver disease; and severe arthritis.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

Losing the first 10 or 20 pounds can also allow people to be more comfortable as they go for walks. Exercise continues to stay important as someone loses weight, because when someone loses a lot of weight, they also lose lean mass. You still want to maintain or add muscle once you lose a lot of weight. This could lead to an increase in the number on the scale, but a lower percentage of fat mass.

Measurable strategies It's important that once you set a goal that you back it up with measurable strategies to make it happen. For example, if you enjoy soda and want to reduce the amount of soda you drink, don’t just say you’re going to drink less soda — say you’ll have no more than one soda per day, or no more than one per week. Strategies

You can log meals and strategies and see what works. If you need support from a professional on your weight loss journey, set up an appointment with me or someone on my team. I start by learning about each patient and their lifestyle, learning about how the person eats, whether they know how to cook, whether they’re on the road or working at night, what medications they take, and more. We take the first few months to look at changes, and if diet and exercise changes do not help, we can discuss surgical and medical weight loss strategies. Weight loss can be a challenging journey, and here, we celebrate every pound lost.

Need help losing weight? Schedule an appointment with TidalHealth. New patient appointments are available in Berlin and Seaford. Visit tidalhealth.org/ findyourhealthyweight.

Not sure where to begin? Medical weight loss is a great first step. At TidalHealth, we begin with medical weight management — a safe, effective, physician-guided program designed around you. Led by Dr. Sandra Palavecino, our team helps you find the right tools, medications and lifestyle changes to support real, sustainable results. And if you ever need more advanced options, you’re already in the right hands. Small steps lead to big changes. Start your journey with medical weight loss at TidalHealth.

tidalhealth.org/findyourhealthyweight TidalHealth Medical Weight Loss & Bariatric Nutrition 201 Health Services Drive Seaford, DE 19973

Atlantic General Bariatric Center 10231 Old Ocean City Blvd. Suite 207 Berlin, MD 21811

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

in Healthcare Celebrating Women & Wellness Ph oto gr ap hy by

J ill J a s u t a , To ny We e g

& Dana M ar ie Ph o to grap hy

This special section highlights the region’s top female providers across healthcare and wellness—from physicians and specialists to beauty and holistic practitioners. Inside, you’ll discover trusted expertise and inspiring stories. We invite you to explore these profiles and connect with these dedicated and talented leaders who are shaping the future of health and wellness in our community.

“I genuinely love seeing people succeed.” — Kathryn Fiddler

“Taking care of patients is absolutely critical to who I am.” — Dr. Simona Eng

“Confidence begins with caring for yourself.” — Amanda Donaway

Sub mi t te d p h oto

“Trust your intuition and don’t give up.” — Stefanie DeFiglia

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

“It is purpose-driven work that keeps me going.” — Katherine Rodgers

PROMOTIONAL SECTION

Celebrating

Women in Healthcare & Wellness

Celebrating

Simona Eng TIDALHEALTH

Simona Eng, DO, FACOI, SFHM, FACP, fulfills several roles: associate vice president of medical education and designated institutional official; associate program director of TidalHealth’s internal medicine residency; and executive medical director of acute care. She has cared for patients for more than two decades. Now, she is helping to shape the next generation of physicians. Dr. Eng began as a hospitalist at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in 2001. Hospitalists care for patients while they are in the hospital and, at that time, it was a relatively new field. Dr. Eng was instrumental in launching TidalHealth’s Graduate Medical Education program, and she continues to lead medical education for the health system. TidalHealth became a sponsoring institution in 2021, and the first TidalHealth internal medicine residency class started in 2022. Now, there are 17 accredited residencies and fellowships, and the program is still growing. One goal of the Graduate Medical Education program is to retain many of those who train at TidalHealth, and half of the inaugural graduating class is still with TidalHealth. Dr. Eng recruited program directors to the area to help launch new programs. She says although residents and fellows train in a rural setting at TidalHealth, they still gain experience by treating and learning from a wide range of diseases. “By adding the programs that we have, we can keep care close to home, too,” she says. In 2025, TidalHealth opened offices in several new specialties, including rheumatology, geriatrics and palliative medicine. While she spends much of her time interacting with residents, fellows and medical students, spending time caring for patients is important to her, too. “Taking care of patients is absolutely critical to who I am,” Dr. Eng says. CS

Advancing Healthcare Dr. Simona Eng leads medical education, expanding specialties and shaping the next generation of physicians at TidalHealth. Ph oto by To ny We e g

TIDALHEALTH • TIDALHEALTH.ORG

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Katherine Rodgers TIDALHEALTH

Pursuing Her Purpose Katherine began her career as a journalist, but later discovered how much she loves working in healthcare. “My true passion is population health,” she says.

Katherine Rodgers, EdD, MPH, in her role as director of community health initiatives and population health management, has a lifechanging impact on people and communities. Katherine oversees community wellness along with nutrition and diabetes education. Community wellness includes prevention, outreach, screenings, chronic disease management and addressing factors leading to frequent emergency department visits. Improving the health of the community isn’t something that just one person, department or organization can do alone. Katherine collaborates with local health coalitions, builds community partnerships and oversees the Community Health Needs Assessment, a process that helps TidalHealth and county health officials take a clear, data-driven look at identifying shared priorities for action. While working at the Worcester County Health Department, she earned her master’s degree in public health. In 2025, she earned a doctorate in organizational leadership, learning and innovation. Katherine began working at TidalHealth in 2019 and moved into her current role the following year. It was the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, and she soon organized mass vaccination clinics. She was already knowledgeable about pandemics, as her master’s capstone project was on isolation in quarantine plans during Ebola. Health equity has always been important, and Katherine and her team assist those who experience healthcare disparities. One program that TidalHealth piloted in 2025 is called Food is Medicine—a healthy food delivery program for patients with specific medical needs. Katherine says she loves her team’s passion for what they do. “It is purpose-driven work that keeps me going,” she says. CS

Ph oto by To ny We e g

TIDALHEALTH • TIDALHEALTH.ORG

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

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Kathryn Fiddler

TIDALHEALTH

TidalHealth’s mission is to improve the health of the communities it serves, and Kathryn Fiddler, vice president of population health at TidalHealth, is always working toward that end. “I get to work on the mission every day,” says Kathryn, who is a member of TidalHealth’s executive team. Behavioral health, community wellness, Alice B. Tawes Nursing & Rehabilitation, school-based wellness centers, care coordination and the Richard A. Henson Research Institute all fall under her purview. A recent project Kathryn has been involved with is TidalHealth’s new mobile mammography unit, which will bring mammogram screenings to rural areas on Delmarva. The mobile unit’s ribbon-cutting was held in October 2025, and when it starts making visits this year, women will also be able to learn about other ways to maintain or improve their health. Kathryn, a breast cancer survivor who did not face barriers to accessing care, has heard many stories along the way—some of which were significantly different from her own. “Just being able to understand the ‘why’ for so many people, and how important this is, made it so much more valuable as a passion for me,” she says. Kathryn is a retired major in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, and before joining TidalHealth in 2016, she worked in Baltimore. Now, she has the opportunity to live, work and play in the same place, she says. Having been mentored in the past, Kathryn now enjoys taking on the mentor role for others. “I genuinely love seeing people succeed,” she says. CS

Salute to Service Kathryn, a retired U.S. Air Force major, was involved in TidalHealth’s new mobile mammography unit project. As a breast cancer survivor herself, she was proud to contribute to the effort. Ph oto by To ny We e g

TIDALHEALTH • TIDALHEALTH.ORG

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Stefanie DeFiglia TWO TREE INTEGRATIVE HEALTH

Collaborative Care Stefanie believes the conversation around menopause should reflect all of its many complexities. “Trust your intuition and don’t give up,” she says. Ph oto by J ill J a s u t a

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

At Two Tree Integrative Health in Easton, owner and nurse practitioner Stefanie DeFiglia, CRNP, FNP-BC, IFMCP, brings a refreshing, solutions-focused approach to women’s wellness on the Eastern Shore. As the first Institute for Functional Medicinecertified practitioner in the region, she offers a level of expertise and insight that is both rare and deeply needed. Stefanie founded Two Tree in 2019 after her own struggle with chronic illness led her to functional medicine and changed the course of her life. That experience inspired her to create a practice where women feel heard, understood and empowered with a clear path forward. Stefanie’s work centers on helping women navigate the many layers of hormonal health, especially during the menopause transition. She addresses the full picture—hormones, metabolic changes, digestive function and brain health—and believes the conversation around menopause should reflect the real complexity of what women experience. Her patient-centered philosophy begins with curiosity rather than judgment. She listens closely to each woman’s story, identifies opportunities for healing and partners with patients to create individualized, goal-driven plans. That collaborative spirit extends throughout the Two Tree team, where a holistic model ensures every patient receives thoughtful, coordinated care. Stefanie also remains committed to advancing her field. Stefanie sees functional medicine continuing to gain recognition as more women seek root-cause answers rather than quick fixes. Her message to readers is simple and powerful: Trust your intuition and don’t give up. Sometimes the right questions make all the difference. CS

EASTON, MD • 443-496-3050 TWOTREEHEALTH.COM

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Amanda Donaway

REJUVENATION SKIN WELLNESS & AESTHETICS

At Rejuvenation Skin Wellness & Aesthetics, nurse practitioner Amanda Donaway, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, combines advanced clinical skills with a deep compassion shaped by over 20 years of nursing experience. Her background spans hospital care, emergency medicine, home health and hospice. Each role strengthened her belief that meaningful care begins with listening, thoughtful communication and a genuine connection with every patient. Amanda blends clinical precision with an artistic eye to create natural, confidencebuilding results that honor each patient’s unique features. Her focus remains on safety, education and individualized care that allows patients to feel supported from the moment they walk through the door. Her dedication has been recognized through multiple Best Of Coastal Style awards in Skin Enhancements for injectables and laser treatments, as well as the distinction of Best Nurse Practitioner in 2024. These honors hold special meaning because they reflect the trust and appreciation of the people she serves. Amanda’s mentor, Dr. Julie Hattier, guided her for several years before Amanda purchased the practice in 2021. Their ongoing friendship and shared commitment to patient-centered care continue to influence Amanda’s approach today. Looking ahead, Amanda sees aesthetics becoming even more personalized as technology and treatment options expand. She also believes confidence begins with caring for yourself, and she is honored to support that journey for the community she loves. CS MILLVILLE, DE • 302-537-8318 REJUVENATIONSKINWELLNESS.COM

Artistic Precision Amanda creates natural, confidence-building results, while focusing on safety, education and individualized care that allows her patients to feel constantly supported. Photo by Dana Marie Photography

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Kelly Knox OFF COAST WELLNESS

Specialized Approach Kelly strives to understand, support and empower women on their wellness journeys.

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At Off Coast Wellness, founder and nurse practitioner Kelly Knox, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, FNP-C, specializes in hormone health with a mission to help women feel understood, supported and empowered in their wellness journey. Over her 15 years in healthcare, Kelly witnessed too many women being told their symptoms were normal or simply part of aging. She launched Off Coast Wellness in 2024 to offer personalized, evidence-based hormone care in a warm, concierge-style space where every woman receives the time and attention she deserves. Kelly’s approach is collaborative and deeply rooted in listening. She takes the time to understand symptoms, lifestyle, metabolism, stress and goals so that each

care plan feels both effective and sustainable. Education and transparency guide her work because she believes women make clearer decisions when they fully understand their bodies. Within its first year, Off Coast Wellness grew from a single room into a trusted local practice supported by patient referrals and community partnerships. Kelly considers this growth one of the most meaningful milestones of her career. In the year ahead, she is focused on expanding Off Coast Wellness into a larger, fully customized space and broadening services to meet the growing needs of women across the region. CS SELBYVILLE, DE • 302-947-8388 OFFCOASTWELLNESS.COM

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Sasha Whiting BEE WELL HOLISTIC HEALING AND MENTAL HEALTH

Whole-Body Approach Sasha promotes small steps toward support that produce powerful acts of change.

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CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

At Bee Well Holistic Healing & Mental Health in downtown Easton, founder Sasha Whiting, LCSW-C, C-IAYT, is redefining what modern mental health care can feel like. A holistic psychotherapist and yoga therapist, Sasha blends evidence-based treatment with the healing power of the mind–body connection, creating a sanctuary where clients experience emotional, physical and nervous-system recovery in a deeply compassionate way. Sasha is known for her integrative clinical model, blending traditional psychotherapy with yoga therapy, nervous system regulation, somatic work, parts work, breathwork, mindfulness, and a wholesystems approach to wellness. This unique combination allows individuals, couples,

families—and especially mothers—to feel supported in healing emotionally, physically and spiritually. Sasha believes every person already carries the capacity to heal. Her role is to help clients access the parts of themselves that feel wise, grounded and whole. “Wellness isn’t only for moments of crisis,” she says. “Sometimes, even the smallest step toward support is an act of bravery—and the beginning of transformation.” Bee Well is more than a practice; it’s a movement toward whole-body healing, courageous change, and a new model of mental wellness for our community. CS EASTON, MD • 443-602-1269 BEEWELLHOLISTICHEALING.COM

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Meredith Todd HARBOR DENTAL CENTER

Transformative Results Dr. Todd’s hands-on care includes implants, cosmetics and full smile transformations.

At Harbor Dental Center in Cambridge, Meredith Todd, DDS, provides comprehensive general dentistry with advanced training in implants and cosmetic care. For 15 years, she has combined technical precision with a love of working hands-on, helping patients regain oral health, restore function and feel confident in their smiles. A Cambridge native, she always knew she wanted to return home to serve the community that shaped her. Dr. Todd approaches every treatment with the same level of detail and care, whether she is restoring a single tooth or transforming a full smile. She is known for her perfectionist mindset and commitment to patient satisfaction, guided by the practice’s core values of authenticity, positivity, responsibility and trust. Her dedication to continuing

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education led her to become a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry in 2017, an achievement that reflects her belief in staying at the forefront of modern dental care. What she finds most rewarding is solving problems that change lives, from relieving pain to delivering cosmetic improvements that help patients smile freely again. Dr. Todd emphasizes that dental health is inseparable from overall health, and she strives to help patients understand the connection. Outside the office, she enjoys walking outdoors with her two dogs, along with yoga and paddleboarding, which help her recharge and stay centered. CS CAMBRIDGE, MD • 410-228-5445 HARBORDENTALCENTER.COM

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Roshni Bhatt HARBOR DENTAL CENTER

All in the Family Dr. Bhatt’s interest in general dentistry was fostered by her father’s career.

Ph oto by J ill J a s u t a

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

At Harbor Dental Center, general dentist Roshni Bhatt, DMD, brings a fresh, patientcentered approach shaped by a lifelong connection to the profession. Inspired by her father, also a general dentist, she grew up observing the meaningful relationships he built with patients and the impact of quality care. Dr. Bhatt graduated from dental school in 2023 and enjoys providing a wide range of services, including restorative dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics and both removable and fixed prosthetics. Since moving to the Eastern Shore in 2023, she has found great fulfillment in serving the Delmarva community and has quickly become known for her warm demeanor and thoughtful communication. She believes understanding a patient’s

concerns, goals and comfort level is essential before moving forward with treatment. By taking time to listen and build trust, she ensures each patient feels supported and understood. She pairs this compassion with pride in technical excellence and a strong commitment to delivering high-quality work. Outside the office, Dr. Bhatt recharges through film, family time and a steady rotation of thriller novels. She believes prioritizing personal wellness strengthens her ability to care for others and encourages patients to value their own well-being with the same intention. CS CAMBRIDGE, MD • 410-228-5445 HARBORDENTALCENTER.COM

SIX WATERFRONT NEIGHBORHOODS Bayside · Lakeside · Creekside Seaside · Coveside · Dockside

NEW HOMES FROM THE MID $200’s PRE-OWNED HOMES TO FIT EVERY BUDGET VACATION RENTALS ALSO AVAILABLE At Pot-Nets, you’re not just buying a home, but a lifestyle. One visit to any of our six coastal communities will reveal the perfect place for you and your family for years to come. We pride ourselves in providing the coastal experience to our residents to include five miles of coastline, several dining options, extensive amenities, and much more. Our golf cart-friendly community allows quick access to some of the best Long Neck has to offer, with Rehoboth Beach and Lewes just minutes away by car.

Whether you’re looking for your forever home or for a special weekend retreat, Pot-Nets has affordable options to fit your needs. See us soon for a tour!

CALL 1.888.534.6637 • POTNETS.COM Pot-Nets is only 12 miles from Rt. 1 and only 2.5 hours by car from Baltimore and Washington, and an easy commute from New Jersey & Pennsylvania. Sales & Information Center Open Daily • 34026 Anna’s Way, Suite 2 • Long Neck, DE 19966 *Prices are subject to change without notice.

A Coastal Composition THIS BETHANY BEACH RETREAT OFFERS OCEANFRONT VIEWS, ELEVATES EVERYDAY LIVING AND BRINGS CALM AND COMFORT HOME Writ ten by K ris ten Hampshire | Photography by Steve Buchanan

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e’d renovated before— several times—but had never started with a blank canvas. “This was the first house we ever built from the ground up,” says the homeowner, who set out to create a refined yet livable retreat for his family on the Delaware shore. “We had a place off the beach for years, but this time, we wanted to be right on the oceanfront—in something bigger, something done right.” That decision led to a collaboration with Purple Cherry Architecture & Interiors, known for its craftsmanship and portfolio of estates, waterfront residences and legacy homes. Working alongside OSK Design Partners and builder Hugh H. Hickman & Sons, Inc., the Purple Cherry team shaped a cohesive coastal retreat that feels grounded in its Bethany Beach setting and elevated in its design. “It began with a clear vision,” says Cathy Cherry, the firm’s founding principal. “He wanted a home that celebrated the views, functioned beautifully for gatherings and still felt calm and sophisticated.” Seamless Sight Lines The home’s architecture and interior are choreographed around a sweeping Atlantic panorama. “Everything points to the ocean,” says Gray Warren, senior interior designer. “We aligned the ceiling beams, fireplace millwork and window frames to create a natural rhythm that draws your eye through the interior and out to the water.” Custom millwork carries through the main living spaces, linking the fireplace wall to the adjoining sunroom. “It’s one continuous gesture,” Gray explains. “That kind of detailing elevates a house from beautiful to timeless.” Soft neutrals, pale wood and layered textures create what Cathy calls “a quiet conversation between the materials and the view.”

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Designed for Real Life Each level of the home serves a purpose to fulfill a plan centered on coastal relaxation and practical, everyday living. The main floor blends kitchen, dining and living areas into a space made for gathering. “It’s very dualpurpose,” Gray says. “You can entertain a crowd, but it’s equally comfortable when it’s just two people enjoying a weekend.” The couple can easily seat about 20 people for a casual dinner, with formal table seating and an expansive island, along with adjacent conversation spaces that flow from the main living area. It’s accommodating but not overwhelming. “Even if it’s just the two of you, you don’t feel like you’re in a castle, sitting far away from the person you’re dining with,” Gray points out. Durable finishes and easy-care materials offer a balance between utility and luxury. Vinyl-covered barstools are practical yet refined; fixtures and hardware were chosen for longevity and understated shine. “We knew this home would welcome guests and kids,” Gray says. “Everything had to look tailored but perform in real life.”

“We knew this home would welcome guests and kids. Everything had to look tailored but perform in real life.” – GRAY WARREN

SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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SPOTLIGHT ON THE OCEAN

The homeowner had a clear vision, which included celebrating the view of the nearby ocean. A neutral color palette inside complements the clear blue waves without distracting from the beauty outside.

Upstairs, guest suites take on distinct personalities—one framed in driftwood tones, another with a banana-leaf bed, and another with outdoor bench swings overlooking the dunes. “None of the bedrooms are assigned,” Cathy adds. “Each one feels special, so every guest has the best room in the house.” The primary suite, however, is a designated space with tailored swivel chairs that are usually facing toward the window and water views. The ensuite tile selection is “pop-art play,” Gray says.

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A serene dressing room in soft blush-pink millwork gives the homeowner’s wife a private retreat. “It’s a delicate, personal note in an otherwise neutral home,” Gray says. “We love when spaces reflect quiet individuality.”

Thoughtful Details From the start, the goal was a turnkey home, and the homeowner was involved in a hands-on way throughout the process. “There was a lot of back-and-forth conversation about how we would live in the space,” he says of what rounded out at 8,400 square feet. Purple Cherry’s interior team managed furnishings, artwork and accessories. No detail was overlooked, from greenery touches to carefully selected coffee table titles. “They gave us options for everything—three choices for each decision,” the homeowner says. “We trusted their judgment. There isn’t one room we’d do differently.” For the design team, those finishing layers were essential. “When you install furniture, it’s beautiful, but it doesn’t yet feel alive,” Gray says. “The accessories—the books, glassware and art—make the house sing.” Many pieces were intentionally modest in cost but rich in story. “We even sourced coastal books specific to Delaware,” Cathy points out. “That kind of detail roots the home in its place.”

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302-278-0051 • THATDESIGN.STUDIO

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Artfully Distilled. Creatively Mixed.

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See how we delivered more than 55,000 website visits in 2025 for TidalHealth

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MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

No project detail was overlooked, from greenery touches to carefully selected coffee table titles, including Delaware specific options. “They gave us options for everything— three choices for each decision,” the homeowner says.

Sanctuary by the Sea The project broke ground before the pandemic, a stroke of luck and a challenge in equal measure. “We were able to build year-round, which helped,” the homeowner says. “But then prices started rising, so we ordered everything we could ahead of time. Somehow, it all came together.” What began as a dream of a “simple beach house” evolved into something far more refined—a sanctuary by the sea defined by craftsmanship and calm. “They nailed it,” he says. “There is not one room I would have done differently.” Cathy smiles at that. “That’s the best compliment we can get,” she says. “When every space feels exactly as it should, that’s when a house truly becomes a home.” CS

Thank You TO THE FAMILIES WHO TRUSTED US WITH THEIR VISIONS IN 2025 —WE ARE TRULY GRATEFUL. AND TO THOSE WE WILL MEET IN 2026 — WE CAN’T WAIT TO CREATE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY TOGETHER.

YOUR VISION. OUR CRAFTMANSHIP. LET'S BUILD.

302-330-2350 garrisonhomes.com

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Easy Elegance LAYERED NEUTRALS, THOUGHTFUL MILLWORK AND SOPHISTICATED DETAILS SHAPE THIS COASTAL FAMILY HOME, DESIGNED TO LAST THROUGH THE AGES Writ ten by K ris ten Hampshire | Photography by Keyanna Bowen | E x terior Residence Photography by Dana Hof f

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

amily, rhythm, rest and connection shaped the vision for this Ocean Way retreat, designed for a couple with grown children who sought a space where they could all breathe—and just be. They enlisted Jess Weeth’s interior design studio, Weeth Home, complemented by accoutrements from Jess’s storefront studio at 419 Rehoboth Avenue: curated furnishings, décor, textiles and finishes, bundled for seamless selection. The family wanted a retreat that felt serene yet familiar to their Baltimore home base—refined but approachable and decidedly inspired by sand, salt and sea, without the kitsch. “They’re hardworking, busy people who wanted a place that felt like a true getaway, somewhere their kids would feel comfortable and where everyone could come together,” says Jess, principal designer, who partnered with Marnie Custom Homes for design/build services. “It’s not just a second home; it’s a place for connection.” Jess translated the couple’s wish list into a timeless, lightfilled escape that balances sophistication and ease, with refined details achieved through shape (stripes), materials (marble) and specialty millwork throughout.

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TONE SETTER

The house’s palette opts for warm, creamy tones instead of stark whites. This creates a softer, more inviting space overall.

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Quiet Craftsmanship The homeowners’ traditional sensibilities served as a foundation for the design. “They have very classic taste,” says Jess. “We wanted to honor that but give it a slightly coastal spin—a place with a soft, relaxed feel.” The palette reflects this approach. Rather than crisp whites, Jess opted for warm, creamy tones such as Swiss Coffee and White Dove. “White is the hardest color to choose,” she relates. “We wanted one that felt cozy and inviting, not stark.” Layered textures—white oak floors with a sandy finish, woven and grasscloth wallpapers, and accents in soft blues and sea-glass hues—lend harmonious dimension. There are no competing angles. There are, however, clever solutions for leveraging some “funky rooflines” required by building code. For example, a pitched ceiling in shiplap and beam in the primary bath crowns the freestanding tub and feels intentional. Throughout the home, subtle details unfold: fluid marble trim that frames the primary bath’s windows, powder blue and white candy-stripe wall covering in a secondary bath with juxtaposing braided detail along the mirror’s rim. Overall, Jess says, “It’s less about one big statement and more about quiet craftsmanship. The beauty comes through in the millwork, the marble trim, and the way light moves through each room.”

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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Style and Substance The heart of the home is an open living area with a coffered ceiling, paneled fireplace wrapped in marble and airy window treatments that strike a balance between structure and softness. Natural light flows in through large windows that open to an outdoor living space designed for entertaining. A cable railing deck maintains the view without obstructing the horizon. “It’s all about maximizing what’s here—the light, the water, the air,” Jess says. The kitchen focal point is a spacious island that doubles as a dining table. “We really thought about how the family would live here,” Jess says. “It needed to be practical but beautiful.” Upstairs, a marble-clad wet room feels spa-like yet understated, with carefully aligned details and softened corners. “The clients love materials that patina over time,” Jess adds of fixtures like faucets and pulls. “There’s something authentic about that—it mirrors how a home evolves with you.”

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Classic Character Across the board, each bedroom and bathroom combo has its own character, shaped by tone and texture. Blues create a consistent and gentle coastal ripple effect that intentionally steers off course in treatments such as the bunkroom’s wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries, which incorporates a rust ropelike pattern, inviting a grown-up vibe into a versatile space that suits guests of all ages. “We wanted it to feel fun but not juvenile,” Jess says. “It’s a room for everyone, with blues and rust tones that reflect the dunes—handsome and a little unexpected.” Powder rooms offer opportunities to step outside the theme, including one with vertical V-groove walls coated in a foggy sage hue—“a subtler choice,” Jess says. A plaster chandelier adds a brand of retro formality, and the bistro curtain ushers in light while offering privacy. In another bathroom, the blueand-white striped wallpaper and marble vanity create a fresh yet timeless look. “Every space had to feel cohesive but have its own mood,” Jess relates. The result is a home that feels both grounded and graceful—coastal without cliché, elegant without formality. “They wanted a space that felt like them,” Jess says. “It’s not a complete departure from their style in Baltimore, just a coastal version: calm, comfortable and meant to be lived in.” CS

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AT THEIR NEW OCEANFRONT HOME IN SOUTH BETHANY BEACH, OWNERS EMBRACE PURE COASTAL LIVING— EFFORTLESS, ELEGANT AND OPEN TO THE WATER Writ ten by K ris ten Hampshire Photography by Dana Hof f

hen Kathy and Rob Taishoff first set foot in the beach house they bought years ago, it already had Marnie Oursler’s stamp on it. After all, she had designed and built the home as a personal residence in 2009. Years later, she sold it to the Taishoffs, who appreciated its characteristic features like abundant glass, an open floor plan, layered neutrals and an indoor-outdoor coastal connection. Homes list and sell. But this was different. While the couple lived in their first “Marnie Home” for several summers, they collected memories and got a feel for what life at the Delaware shore could be. Then they landed a unicorn seaward lot with panoramic views. There were no obstructions to the north—just fullon views. Toward the northeast, lot line setbacks preserved vistas. With this property, The Taishoffs decided it was showtime for their own custom build. It had to be a Marnie—an encore. “It was flattering that they wanted to build a home with our team, and Kathy had lots of ideas sketched out and put so much effort into the process,” says Marnie of her eponymous firm’s collaboration with the couple. “It was rewarding to bring her vision to fruition.” What ultimately resulted is dubbed Pura Vida: a 3,700-square-foot custom home in South Bethany that lives up to its name— pure life, in every sense.

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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All Together Inside, the tone is bright and natural—white oak floors, soft blues and sandy neutrals flow through rooms designed to be lived in. “The goal was to keep everything open and airy while making sure it all functioned perfectly,” Kathy says. “Even if a room was small, it had to feel thoughtful.” Working with Marnie and Sokolow Architects, the Taishoffs designed the house around light, views and function. “We wrapped the kitchen and living spaces in glass to take advantage of those panoramic views,” Marnie says.

The kitchen is the home’s hub, anchored by a massive island topped with white Bellagio Quartzite. Floating glass shelves hang in front of the windows, keeping sightlines clear while creating storage for barware and dishes. A built-in pizza oven is center stage, situated on the back wall, heating to 1,300 degrees in minutes. “It’s one of my favorite features,” Kathy says. “I love to cook, and it’s become a magnet for friends and family.” There’s also a dog-washing station and a built-in feeding nook, inspired by the family’s pack of doodles and huskies. An easy-fill water dish “sink” saves a whole lot of time and accounts for fourfooted family members.

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BRINGING THE LIGHT IN

“We wrapped the kitchen and living spaces in glass to take advantage of those panoramic views,” Marnie Oursler says.

Finding Space Every inch of the house was planned with purpose. With five grown children and five dogs, the couple prioritized six bedrooms and sixand-a-half baths, balancing private spaces with open gathering areas. “We wanted everyone to have their own space, but also those easy places where we could all just hang out,” Kathy relates. Marnie maximized available square footage with custom built-ins and bunkrooms designed like staterooms on a yacht. Clever storage niches and window seats were sized precisely to fit overnight guests.

“We used every inch,” Marnie says. “Kathy had such a clear vision, and she was incredibly supportive of the creative problem-solving it took to achieve it.” This philosophy extended throughout the home, with Marnie and her team managing technical artistry. Large glass panels required steel framing and creative cantilevers to preserve the dunes. The pool was craned in over the house—by two cranes—and set oceanside to create a seamless extension of the deck. What looks effortless in the outcome was choreographed with care.

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

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BEACH TONES

In every room, the bright and natural tone continues with white oak floors, soft blues and sandy neutrals. “The goal was to keep everything open and airy while making sure it all functioned perfectly,” Kathy Taishoff says.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

“We can see forever. It’s everything we wanted.” — KATHY TAISHOFF

Inviting Stays The sleeping porch is a screened-in terrace off the primary suite fitted with skylights, ceiling heaters, and twin daybeds. “When the doors are open, it feels like an outdoor bedroom,” Kathy says of the space that extends beyond their third-floor primary suite. “We can sleep out there, watch movies—it’s our favorite place to unwind.” Connecting to views was a priority. So, beyond the primary, two additional screened porches extend outdoor living: one off the kitchen for breezy dinners, the other by the pool for shaded afternoons. Meanwhile, the ground level houses a rec room, kitchenette and full pantry with two bedrooms. There’s the main bunkroom (with four beds) and an ancillary room, plus an additional sleeping nook—a spacious twin-sized window seat in the gathering area. It all leads to another deck, the beach, an outdoor shower and fun for days. The project came together in less than a year—full speed for an oceanfront build that began with the deconstruction and donation of the existing home. “It was an incredibly smooth process,” Rob says. “Marnie’s team kept us updated through their platform, and everything ran like clockwork.” What they have now is their anytime and forever home. “It’s a place that feels completely ours,” Kathy relates. “When the beach gets busy, we sit on the deck by the pool, and it’s peaceful. We can see forever. It’s everything we wanted.” CS

January/February 2026 • CoastalStyleMag.com

coastal

PARTING SHOT

A Winter Matinee

Photo and description by Jill Jasuta

he February storm was in full effect, snow falling thick and steady in the late afternoon. With camera in hand, I meandered through downtown Cambridge, the streets empty. No cars. No walkers. Just the soft hush of snow and the warm glow of “happy lights” strung across Race Street.

CoastalStyleMag.com • January/February 2026

Halfway down the block, I stopped short at the old Tolley Theater. I’ve walked and driven past this building dozens of times without giving it much thought. Empty for years, it usually fades into the background. But in the snow, it felt newly present. The falling flakes softened its edges and brought out its Art Deco colors. Winter’s paintbrush

was giving the marquee and façade a kind of temporary revival, as if the building were remembering itself—and the children gripping popcorn tubs at their first movies, the couples on early dates and the lines of people who once waited to buy tickets for Beatles films and Saturday matinees. CS

the moment. love your smile.

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