Issuu

CHESAPEAKE BAY MARYLAND | VOL. 7

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: READ THIS ISSUE ONLINE. SCAN THE QR CODE

FEATURED ARTICLES

RETIREMENT • INVESTING • VACATION

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

TRAVEL • LIVING • HEALTH • DINING

CO NTE NT S

FEATURES 4

Investment Strategies

Home Library

Health & Food

22 Local Event Guide 34 Travel to Florida 37 Wellness Trends

Recommended Service Directory

• Promote your brand • Earn new clients • Grow your business The55spotlight.com

CO NTE NT S 2026-27 SCHEDULES

PGA Tournaments

LPGA Tournaments

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Australian

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - French

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - Wimbledon

Grand Slam Tennis Tournaments - US Open

Recommended Service Directory

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

SUSTAINABLE

INVESTMENT STRATEGIES Have you ever thought about or heard about sustainable investing? If not, here is some information about what it means and how one can approach it. First, sustainable investing refers to socially responsible investing (SRI) as well as environmental, social and governance data investment (ESG). A sustainable investment strategy considers environmental, social and corporate governance criteria to generate long-term competitive financial returns as well as a positive social impact. There are two ways to look at these investment strategies. Do you want to eliminate from your portfolio certain industries because of what they do (SRI) or are you more interested in investing in

companies that do good which is called (ESG)? SRI, or Impact Investing, generally refers to making investments based on one’s values - avoiding companies that don’t fit your morals. Some companies that are often excluded are those that make their profits from tobacco, fossil fuel, firearms, and alcohol but at the end of the day, you are the judge. ESG investing is focused on how the company operates. Does the company have a positive or negative impact on climate change, what is the company culture, and what is the corporate structure in relation to its stakeholders? To accomplish your goals, consider an asset manager’s history and whether they have dedicated the (. . .continued on page 6)

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

necessary resources to provide ongoing research and analysis. To maintain returns while investing sustainably, seek out a fund that is benchmarked to a broad-based index. This shows the manager’s goal is to provide market-like or better than market returns. Research has shown that companies that best manage their environmental and social impact

and follow good governance practices (ESG) are more profitable in the medium and long term. The growth in sustainable investment opportunities has been substantial as individuals choose to find investments that align with their goals. The Global Sustainable Investment Alliance reports a 34 per cent increase in these investments over the last two years.

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

HOME LIBRARY HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT OF CREATING A LIBRARY IN YOUR HOME?

Home libraries are a dedicated space to relax and enjoy reading time. If you love books and have a lot of them, it is a great way to

enjoy your collection. It is also a personal statement about what you’re interested in; books and mementos can serve as a history (. . .continued on page 10)

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

of your life. It is wonderful if you have a room that can be designated as the library but that really isn’t necessary. What’s most important is to create a cozy space for your collection. A library can be created in many different spaces since a room can be multi-functional. Sometimes there is space under a staircase or in a quiet nook, maybe a wall in the dining room or the hall. A fireplace can often be surrounded by bookshelves to create a library. Even a bedroom can be an interesting place to create your library; it could even be used as a wall unit above your headboard. All it takes is a little imagination. Your personal library isn’t necessarily just for books. It is a place to show off collections, photos, albums, plants and even art. It can all be incorporated in the design. It is really about your own interests, which is what makes it personal. You might want to include a desk in your library wall or a hidden space to hide games and other important knick-knacks. Keep in mind that a library should feel like a cozy retreat for reading. Depending on the space, consider

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

the color palette. Deep rich colors are relaxing in a library, but it all depends on the library’s location and the design of your home. Wood paneled libraries are traditional but there are many ways to create a relaxing space, depending on your own individual aesthetic. If you have a window with surrounding bookshelves, a window seat makes the perfect addition. Add a comfortable oversized chair if you have space. Don’t forget to consider lighting, which depends on the size and location of your library. Use picture lights mounted at the top of the shelves to illuminate books and add a dramatic effect. For a traditional look, use wall sconces. For actual reading, recessed lighting is appropriate as it can be dimmed by preference. Table lamps are always appropriate as are floor lamps depending on the location and available space in your own library. Whether your home is large or small, there is always a space for a personal library.

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

HEALTH & FOOD Eating healthy and having a holistic

A popular sugar alternative is dates

approach to wellness focuses on mind,

which are very sweet and have been

body and soul. Foods that enhance

used for thousands of years. They are

energy, heart health, improve sleep and

high in nutrients, antioxidants and

increase muscle strength are growing

fiber. Some say they are good for brain

in popularity. High protein, low calorie,

health as well as digestion. Eaten whole

and low carbohydrate meals are the

or used in baked treats, they provide all

way to go. The movement towards

the sweetness needed.

plant-based

items

for

health

and

environmental reasons is here to stay.

To lose weight or simply to eat a little bit healthier, there are several different

Sugar intake is a concern for many.

approaches you can take.

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

The Whole Food Diet is probably the

The PALEO Diet is based on foods

most recommended diet. It is about

eaten in the Paleolithic period of

avoiding or limiting processed foods,

hunter gatherer societies thousands

preservatives or artificial ingredients

of years ago, before farming.

while sticking to lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, fish, shellfish and eggs. Limiting meat is a part of this diet as well. Not only

The Vegetarian Diet is made up of

is this diet healthy for you, but it is

plant-based

healthy for the planet as processed

fruits

foods require more resources such as

legumes and nuts. No meat or dairy

water and energy, thus creating more

products including eggs and other

pollution.

milk products are consumed. There

and

foods

which

include

vegetables,

grains,

is a trend to eat more fruits and vegetables and new products are continually coming to the market. The KETO Diet is a low carbohydrate,

Non-dairy

high fat diet that helps burn fat

oat, soy and almond are popular

milk

alternatives

for energy rather than carbs, thus

replacements for milk. New plant-

triggering weight loss. According to

based pasta alternatives like chickpea

Healthline, the foods to eat on this

or zucchini pasta help us eat more

diet are: meat, fatty fish,eggs, butter

vegetables and additional options are

and cream, cheese, nuts and seeds,

continually being introduced.

olive or avocado oil, avocados, and low carb vegetables and condiments.

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

BANANA DATE NUT BREAD • 3 ripe bananas mashed

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

• 2 eggs

• Grease a 9x5x3 bread pan

• 1 stick butter

• Cream butter and date mixture

• 1 cup unbleached flour

• Add eggs one at a time,

• 1 cup whole wheat flour • 1/2 cup shelled walnuts chopped • 3/4 cup Medjool dates chopped and pitted blitzed with 1/4 cup water in a blender ( or 3/4 cup of sugar without water) • 1 tsp baking soda • 1/2 tsp salt • 1 tsp vanilla extract

beating well • Sift flour, baking soda, and salt and add to creamed mixture • Fold in mashed bananas, vanilla and walnuts • Pour mixture into the bread pan • Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean • Cool for 10 minutes and then put on a rack

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2026 PGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE DATES

TOURNAMENT

* Schedule subject to change

WATCH

SEP 17 - 20

Biltmore Championship Asheville The Cliffs at Walnut Cove Asheville, NC • USA

SEP 24 - 27

Presidents Cup Medinah CC (No. 3) Chicago, IL • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

OCT 1 - 4

Bank of Utah Championship Black Desert Resort Ivins, UT • USA

GOLF

OCT 8 - 11

Baycurrent Classic Yokohama Country Club Yokohama • Japan

GOLF

OCT 22 - 25

Butterfield Bermuda Championship Port Royal Golf Course Southampton • Bermuda

GOLF

OCT 29 - NOV 1

VidantaWorld Mexico Open Vidanta Vallarta Vallarta • Mexico

GOLF

World Wide Technology Championship NOV 5 - 8

El Cardonal at Diamante

GOLF

Los Cabos • Mexico NOV 12 - 15

Good Good Championship Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa Fazio Canyons Course) Austin, TX • USA

GOLF

NOV 19 - 22

The RSM Classic Sea Island Golf Club (Seaside Course) St. Simons Island, GA • USA

GOLF

DEC 3 - 6

Hero World Challenge Albany GC Albany •

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

DEC 11 - 13

Grant Thornton Invitational Tiburón Golf Club Naples, FL • USA

PARAMOUNT, GOLF, NBC

+ Signature Event # Not PGA TOUR Co-sponsored ^ Co-sanctioned with DP World Tour

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2026 LPGA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Purse subject to change

DATES

TOURNAMENT

PURSE

SEPT. 11-13

Solheim Cup Bernardus Golf | s’-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), Netherlands

SEPT. 25-27

Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G Pinnacle Country Club | Rogers, Arkansas

$3M

OCT. 1-4

LOTTE Championship presented by Hoakalei Hoakalei Country Club | Ewa Beach, Oahu, Hawaii

$3M

OCT. 15-18

Buick LPGA Shanghai TBD | People’s Republic of China

$3.2M

OCT. 22-25

BMW Ladies Championship Pine Beach Golf Links | Haenam-gun, Jeollanam-do, Republic of Korea

$2.35M

OCT. 29 NOV. 1

Maybank Championship Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club | Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

$3M

NOV. 5-8

TOTO Japan Classic Taiheiyo Club, Minori Course | Ibaraki, Japan

$2.1M

NOV. 12-15

The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge at Pelican Pelican Golf Club | Belleair, Florida

$3.25M

NOV. 19-22

CME Group Tour Championship TiburonGolf Club | Naples, Florida

$11M

DEC.11-13

Grant Thornton Invitational TiburonGolf Club | Naples, Florida

$2.05M

LOCAL EVENTS GUIDE CHESAPEAKE BAY PLEASE NOTE: WE’RE AWARE THAT THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES ARE LIMITING MANY ASPECTS OF LIFE AS ARE UNCERTAIN. DUE TO THE CURRENT SITUATIONS, MANY EVENTS HAVE EITHER BEEN CANCELLED, RESCHEDULED, OR CHANGED TO VIRTUAL EVENTS. PLEASE VERIFY ALL EVENTS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. THANK YOU.

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

SEPT 19 - 20 | BOOKFEST The Baltimore Book Festival celebrates Baltimore’s rich literary history, vibrant present, and bright future by connecting readers and authors and making the literary arts more engaging, entertaining, relevant, and accessible for all Baltimoreans. The festival will include literary salons, panel discussions, writing workshops, poetry readings, author talks, book signings, children’s activities, and more. For more info visit: baltimorebookfestival.com

OCT 17 | RUNNING FESTIVAL Join us at the event that many are calling one of the best races on the East Coast. With five distances to choose from, and all runners snagging a great Under Armour shirt for participating, this event is for you! You won’t want to miss the Baltimore Running Festival! For more info visit: thebaltimoremarathon.com

SEPT 13 | MADE IN MARYLAND The Made In Maryland Festival, a one-day event that highlights all of our state’s best and most famous offerings! This completely Maryland-themed festival features a fun line-up of vendors and entertainment, from artisans, crafters, live jousting, food vendors, local wineries and breweries, live music, children’s activities and beyond. For more info visit: madeinmarylandfest.com

OCT 2 - 4 | EDGAR ALLAN POE FESTIVAL This free, two-day outdoor event celebrates the famous Baltimorean scribe, with Poe-themed performances, art, vendors, and food. Highlights of the International Edgar Allan Poe Festival & Awards include the Black Cat Ball, a cognac and roses graveside masquerade, appearances by world class Poe impersonator Tim Beasley and a tour of Poe’s Baltimore. For more info visit: poefestinternational.com

NOVEMBER

NOV 7 | BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Get ready for another unforgettable evening of folk, bluegrass, and roots music as the North East Fall Folk & Bluegrass Festival returns to the Milburn Stone Theatre. Now in its fourth year, the festival brings together an exciting lineup of artists who celebrate the storytelling, musicianship, and rich traditions of American roots music. For more info visit: milburnstone.com NOV 13 - 15 | WATERFOWL FEST For over 50 years, the Waterfowl Festival, Inc. has staged an annual event that has raised $6 million for wildlife and habitat conservation, education, scholarships, and research. Shop from the world-renowned painters, sculptors, carvers and photographers to find that perfect piece. Join family and friends to celebrate the traditions that makes this area of the world so special. For more info visit: waterfowlfestival.org

NOV 13 - 14 | IRISH FESTIVAL Join us all weekend as we celebrate our Irish culture with great music, food, beer, and do some early Christmas shopping with our fantastic vendors! We have many Cultural and Historical displays and performances, and a dedicated kid’s play area with activities, and games. For more info visit: irishfestival.com

DECEMBER

DEC 1 - 27 | CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Need to start your Christmas shopping? Keep an eye out for our unique selection of international and local vendors. Expect handmade holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry as well as high-quality arts and crafts. Warm yourself with a hot glass of Glühwein while enjoying festive Christmas lights at the Inner Harbor. For more info visit: baltimore-christmas.com

JANUARY

JAN 30 - 31 | BLUEGRASS FEST Annapolis Bluegrass is YOUR HOME for jams, concerts, and more in Maryland’s capital city! For more info visit: annapolisbluegrass.com

FEBRUARY

FEB TBA | SHUCK & STOUT Join us in FeBREWary as we celebrate locally made beer and locally harvested Maryland oysters! We’ve put together a list of pairings for you to enjoy that you can find at restaurants across the state in the month of February. Grab your loved ones and introduce them to a palate-pleaser that may tickle their senses and warm their souls. For more info visit: shucknboil.com

MARCH

MARCH 6 - 14 | HOME & GARDEN SHOW Leave the cold winds of winter behind! Tour landscapers’ beautiful indoor gardens bursting with cheerful blooms and demonstrating new trends. Get tips and check out products from more than 400 home improvement exhibitors. Take home artwork and unique creations from juried artists and crafters. For more info visit: mdhomeandgarden.com

APRIL

APRIL TBA | IRISH FEST Some of the world’s finest traditional Irish musicians will gather in Baltimore to teach workshops, perform and lead sessions. We work hard bringing in and hiring some of the best Irish traditional performers and teachers for your entertainment. Spend this day learning and enjoying Irish Culture! For more info visit: baltimoreirisharts.com

(. . .continued on page 26) 24

(. . .continued from 26) APRIL 2 - 3 | BBQ & BREW FEST A day filled with great food, beer, and fun! What more could you ask for? Come join us and enjoy all this delicious mouth watering BBQ. For more info visit: timonium.beerandbourbon.com

MAY

MAY TBA | KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE For more than 20 years the American Visionary Art Museum‘s Kinetic Sculpture Race has been a beloved tradition. Teams of inventive artists build and pilot original sculptures over land and sea from one end of Baltimore to another. The race is a day of good-humored merrymaking, fun mishaps in engineering and creative costumes. For more info visit: kineticbaltimore.com

MAY 16 | ARTS FESTIVAL There’s something for everyone at the Arbutus Arts Festival. Whether you’re in the mood to browse handmade arts & crafts, savor delicious food and drink, listen to great local music, or just relax in the beer garden, you can do it all at the Baltimore area’s premier one-day arts & crafts show. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone there! For more info visit: arbutusartsfestival.com

JUNE

JUNE 12 | FOOD & WINE FEST Experience The Revolution. Don’t Let Wine Drinking Be Intimidating, let us introduce you to new drinks and cocktails that are soon to become your favorites. The Annual Baltimore Wine & Food Festival offers fun, food & spirits in a day-drinking party that will have you bubbling as much as the champagne. For more info visit: https://bit.ly/3vWEv7p.

(. . .continued on page 28) 26

(. . .continued from 28)

ddJULY

JULY 4 | INDEPENDENCE DAY Maryland starts celebrating America’s Independence already in the last days of June. Lots of patriotic events take place in Baltimore and Annapolis, while the Chesapeake Bay and Ocean City offer perfect beach weather and stunning fireworks over the waterfront. As events are scattered throughout the Fourth of July Weekend, please check the official website for more detailed information on date, time, and location. For more info visit: https://tinyurl.com/pj2x8j9u

JULY 9 - 10 | CARIBBEAN FEST Experience the magic of Carnival without leaving Charm City at the Baltimore Washington One Caribbean Festival, a tradition more than 40 years old. Modeled after Trinidadian street festivals, this two-day event typically begins with a larger-than-life parade of performers, masqueraders, drummers, stilt walkers, floats and steel bands, and is followed by a lively fair and concert consisting of delicious Caribbean food, costumes and entertainment. For more info visit: baltimorecarnival.org

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

SESSION

DATE

TIME

FEATURED MATCHES

JAN 14 - THU

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 15 - FRI

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 16 - SAT

10:00 AM

Qualifying

JAN 17 - SUN

11:00 AM

First Round

JAN 17 - SUN

7:00 PM

First Round

JAN 18 - MON

11:00 AM

First Round

JAN 18 - MON

7:00 PM

First Round

JAN 19 - TUE

11:00 AM

First Round

JAN 19 - TUE

7:00 PM

First Round

JAN 20 - WED

11:00 AM

Second Round

JAN 20 - WED

7:00 PM

Second Round

JAN 21 - THU

11:00 AM

Second Round

JAN 21 - THU

7:00 PM

Second Round

JAN 22 - FRI

11:00 AM

Third Round

JAN 22 - FRI

7:00 PM

Third Round

JAN 23 - SAT

11:00 AM

Third Round

JAN 23 - SAT

7:00 PM

Third Round

JAN 24 - SUN

11:00 AM

Fourth Round

JAN 24 - SUN

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

JAN 25 - MON

11:00 AM

Fourth Round

JAN 25 - MON

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

JAN 26 - TUE

11:00 AM

Quarterfinals

JAN 26 - TUE

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

JAN 27 - WED

11:00 AM

Quarterfinals

JAN 27 - WED

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

JAN 28 - THU

11:00 AM

Women’s Semifinals

JAN 29 - FRI

12:00 PM

First Men’s Final

JAN 29 - FRI

7:30 PM

Second Men’s Semifinal

JAN 30 - SAT

7:30 PM

Women’s Singles Final Men’s Doubles Final

JAN 31 - SUN

7:30 PM

Women’s Doubles Final Men’s Singles Final

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

MAY 23 - SUN

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 23 - SUN

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 24 - MON

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 24 - MON

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 25 - TUE

11:00AM

First Round

MAY 25 - TUE

8:15 PM

First Round

MAY 26 - WED

11:00AM

Second Round

MAY 26 - WED

8:15 PM

Second Round

MAY 27 - THU

11:00AM

Second Round

MAY 27 - THU

8:15 PM

Second Round

MAY 28 - FRI

11:00AM

Third Round

MAY 28 - FRI

8:15 PM

Third Round

MAY 29 - SAT

11:00AM

Third Round

MAY 29 - SAT

8:15 PM

Third Round

MAY 30 - SUN

11:00AM

Fourth Round

MAY 30 - SUN

8:15 PM

Fourth Round

MAY 31 - MON

11:00AM

Fourth Round

MAY 31 - MON

8:15 PM

Fourth Round

JUNE 1 - TUE

11:00AM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 1 - TUE

8:15 PM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - WED

11:00AM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 2 - WED

8:15 PM

Quarterfinals

JUNE 3 - THUR

2:30 PM

Ladies Single Semifinals, Men’s Doubles

JUNE 4 - FRI

2:30 PM

Mens Singles Semifinals, Ladies Doubles

JUNE 5 - SAT

8:15 PM

Ladies Singles Final, Mens Double Final

JUNE 6 - SUN

3:00 PM

Men’s Singles Final, Ladies Double Final

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2027 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change

DATE

PLAY START

SESSION

JUNE 28 - MON

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 1st Round

JUNE 29 - TUE

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 1st Round

JUNE 30 - WED

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 2nd Round

JULY 1 - THU

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 2rd Round

JULY 2 - FRI

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 3rd Round

JULY 3 - SAT

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 3rd Round

JULY 4 - SUN

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 4th Round

JULY 5 - MON

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s 4th Round

JULY 6 - TUE

11:00 AM

Ladies' & Gentlemen's Quarterfinals

JULY 7 - WED

11:00 AM

Ladies’ & Gentlemen’s Quarterfinals

JULY 8 - THU

11:00 AM

Ladies’ Semifinals

JULY 9 - THU

11:00 AM

Gentlemen’s Semifinals

JULY 10 - FRI

11:00 AM

Ladies’ Singles Final & Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles

JULY 11 - SAT

11:00 AM

Gentlemen’s Singles Final & Ladies’ Doubles

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

2026 GRAND SLAM TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

* Schedule subject to change ** Start Times Listed in EST

SESSION

DATE

SCHEDULE

PLAY START

MATCHES

SEP 1 - MON

Day

12:00 PM

Fourth Round

SEP 1 - MON

Night

7:00 PM

Fourth Round

SEP 2 - TUE

Day

12:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 2 - TUE

Night

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 3 - WED

Day

12:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 3 - WED

Night

7:00 PM

Quarterfinals

SEP 4 - THU

Night

7:00 PM

Women’s Semifinals

SEP 5 - FRI

Day

3:00 PM

Men’s Semifinals

SEP 5 - FRI

Night

7:00 PM

Men’s Semifinals

SEP 6 - SAT

Night

4:00pm

Women’s Final

SEP 7 - SUN

Day

2:00pm

Men’s Final

Florida HISTORIC TOWNS IN

If you happen to be driving through Florida, there are several interesting and historic towns worth visiting. St. Augustine, the oldest town in America, is located on the northeast coast of the state, just south of Jacksonville. Then head south to enjoy the Lake Wales Ridge, which includes the towns of Sebring, Lake Placid and Avon. First settled in 1565 by the Spanish and predating both Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, St Augustine was first seen by Admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles. Visit Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th century Spanish stone fortress, and the cobblestoned historic downtown that includes over 30 historic houses. Remember, this is the city known for the Fountain of Youth, so be sure to see the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where

visitors can drink from the spring. Next, head south to Lake Wales, which has an ‘old Florida” vibe and is one of the most scenic areas in the state. Known for its cypress trees, citrus groves and abundance of freshwater lakes, Lake Wales can’t be missed! Enjoy the history of these towns and don’t miss Highlands State Park for hiking, biking, birding and a variety of rare and native plants. Sebring has undergone a major restoration of its historic downtown. There is a lot to see and do, particularly if you are a history buff. Sebring was founded in 1912 by Ohio pottery manufacturer George E. Sebring and is now designated as a 1920’s Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as “The City on the Circle” because of its design

which is based on the ancient Egyptian city of Heliopolis. With a circular park, all roads radiate from there which makes Sebring very distinctive. Lake Placid was founded in 1927 and has two nicknames: the “Town of Murals” and “The Caladium Capital of the World”. It is known for its art scene with over 50 murals throughout the town, it is a sight to behold. Some of the murals are as large as 175 feet

Travels ENJOY YOUR

wide and 30 feet tall and depict the town’s history including the town’s Native American heritage. There is also the Historical Society Depot Museum located in the original railroad depot. And don’t miss the interesting boutiques and restaurants in the downtown area. Avon Park is known as the “City of Charm” because of its historic downtown and small town feel. It was founded in 1886 and is the oldest town in the region, It was named after Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Visit the Avon Park Depot Museum and the Museum of Florida Arts and Culture. Babe Ruth and Clark Gable stayed at the historic Hotel Jacarinda downtown.

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

WELLNESS TRENDS FOR

2026

In 2026, there will be a focus on fitness and AI will be a part of this trend. It will revolutionize the industry through personalization, instant feedback and data tracking. The fitness trend has shifted from short-term goals to long-term lifestyle concerns. People are focused on the number of years lived in good health, not just lifespan. There is an emphasis on fundamentals like strength training, consistent sleep, stress reduction and a nutrient rich diet as well as preventative health care. Technology plays a part in this shift toward mind and body fitness as real time data becomes available. Wearable technology, artificial intelligence and advanced

analytics give individuals a unique understanding of their body. Wearables like Apple Watches, WHOOP, and Oura Rings increase our knowledge of how our bodies are functioning. Not only do wearables count steps and steadiness, but they are also capable of tracking sleep quality and recovery, heart rate variations, skin temperature and other variables. With all this information, personalized programs can be developed that incorporate diet, exercise and recovery. The American College of Sports Medicine ranked wearable technology as the #1 fitness trend because of its ability to integrate

C H E S A P E A K E B AY | M A RY L A N D | VO L . 7

nutrition, sleep, mental health, and physical performance. AI can analyze all the data and recognize patterns. Imagine being informed that your recovery is lagging or your walking isn’t steady. Then it tells you how to correct through exercise or adjustments to sleep routines, nutrition or stress management strategies. There is also a new emphasis on recovery from a workout. It is now considered a critical component of any fitness program as it enhances performance, longevity and overall

wellness. Gyms today often offer meditation corners, hyperbaric chambers, red light therapy, cold plunge pools, and cryotherapy stations. Additionally, there are somatic healing offerings. These include yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and dance - all of which focus on the mind body connection. The latest trends in fitness are holistic and recognize that mental and emotional health are inseparable from physical performance.

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

ARTIST Frank Azzopardi..........................................................7

ENGINEER Wilkerson & Associates, Inc................................... 9

AUTO DEALERSHIP Genesis of Annapolis..................................................1

ESTATE PLANNING Alpha Bloom Law Firm..........................................29

BED & BREAKFAST Blue Heron Landing...................................................3

EYE CARE Anne Arundel Eye Care............. Back Inside Cover

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TREATMENT Devine Grace Behavioral Health Center............7

EYEGLASSES Anne Arundel Eye Care............. Back Inside Cover

BUSINESS PLANNING PAX Law......................................................................... 9

FAMILY LAW The Elira Law Firm.............................................20-21

COGNITIVE THERAPY Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17

FEEDING DISORDER TREATMENTS Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17

CRIME VICTIM SERVICES Bio One Annapolis....................................................17

HOLISTIC PRACTICES Aha Moments.............................................................27

CRIMINAL DEFENSE The Elira Law Firm.............................................20-21

IMMIGRATION LAW Alpha Bloom Law Firm..........................................29

DANCE ACADEMY Odyssey Hand Dance Academy...........................5

IN HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES Senior Helpers of Annapolis................................25

DRAWINGS Frank Azzopardi..........................................................7 ENERGY WORK Aha Moments.............................................................27

INSURANCE East Coast Health Advisors.................. Back Cover

RECOMMENDED SERVICE DIRECTORY

LAND SURVEYOR Wilkerson & Associates, Inc................................... 9 LANGUAGE THERAPY Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17 MEDICARE East Coast Health Advisors.................. Back Cover MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT Devine Grace Behavioral Health Center............7 OPTOMETRIST Anne Arundel Eye Care............. Back Inside Cover PAINTINGS Frank Azzopardi..........................................................7 PERSONAL INJURY The Elira Law Firm.............................................20-21

SAILING SCHOOL The Maryland School of Saling & Seamanship...............................................................5 SEAMANSHIP The Maryland School of Saling & Seamanship...............................................................5 SMART HOME SERVICES DMV SmarTechs...........................................................7 SOUND MEDITIATION Aha Moments.............................................................27 SPEECH THERAPY Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17 SUNROOM CONTRACTOR Mattison Construction................Front Cover, 12-13

PET CREMATION Shore Pet Cremation..................................................3

SWALLOWING DISORDER TREATMENTS Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17

PHARMACY Crofton Pharmacy....................................................27

TV MOUNTING DMV SmarTechs...........................................................7

POWER OF ATTORNEY PAX Law......................................................................... 9

VOICE THERAPY Kamila Stawniak for Communication...............17

REIKI Aha Moments.............................................................27

WILLS PAX Law......................................................................... 9