Short on Time, Long on Excitement

Plein Air–Easton! “Quick Draw” Captures Eastern Shore Beauty & Charm

By Ann E. Dorbin

Looking for romance? What better way to spend an afternoon than strolling the streets of the town named 8 th Best Small Town in America and ranked among America 's 50 Best Small Art Towns , while rubbing elbows with some of the nation's best brush-slinging artists as they rendezvous for a one-day stand with Lady Easton. No longer reserved for riled-up Old West sharpshooters, the “Quick Draw” portion of the Plein Air–Easton! Competition & Arts Festival refers to a slightly more civilized type of contest.

Held within a brief span of 2-hours within a few blocks of Historic Downtown Easton, the Quick Draw contest requires competing artists to finish one painting before time runs out. Last year more than 100 artists participated in the Quick Draw, including many of the competition painters. Incredibly, a few prolific artists managed to produce a second painting. Abounding with arts of all kinds, Plein Air–Easton! is the East Coast's premier plein air (French for “in the open air”) event. Plein air painters are a special breed of outdoorsy visionaries who intimately relate to the landscapes around them, often adapting quickly to changing conditions of light and weather. The artist's challenge is to capture the atmosphere, feeling, and immediacy of fleeting moments that catch their trained eye. If the main competition (during which artists paint exhaustively for four straight days) is a lavishly prepared gourmet picnic, the Quick Draw is the pièce de résistance .

While Quick Draws of most other plein air competitions comprise only invited artists, but Easton 's Quick Draw is unique in that it is open to anyone. (Even children have a chance at the Children's Quick Draw, held at the Academy Art Museum at noon on Saturday.) Amateur artists, professionals, and the simply adventurous compete and have fun while creating artistic representations of Easton 's diverse architecture, gardens, people, and street life. This is plein air distilled.

Excitement builds as easels sprout up and dozens of artists stake out their territory and prepare to paint, draw, or sculpt along downtown streets. Most artists have been scouting for days to find that particular place that inspires them to “draw” the scene with speed and artistry, all the while surrounded by crowds of spectators and art collectors. Finally, the starting gunfires sound and the courthouse bell bongs twice (2 p.m.). The race against the clock is on! Diners leave their tables, employees mosey outside, shoppers empty from boutiques as visitors and townsfolk flood the streets to indulge in this reflective celebration of picturesque downtown Easton .

During this brief interlude, it is possible to literally watch scenes come to life before your eyes: from blank canvas to sketched concept to completed piece. Sidle up to these painters and experience the magic of plein air painting. Spectators get close enough to smell the oil paint and walk away with a smudge of color on their sleeve. Art students may pick up a secret or two, and collectors have the opportunity to meet the creators of artworks that will be exhibited and sold at an open-air exhibit immediately following the Quick Draw.

When You Go:

• The Quick Draw is Saturday, July 28 from 2-4 p.m., rain or shine.
• The Quick Draw Exhibit & Sale takes place outdoors on S. Harrison St. near the Academy Art Museum (or, in case of rain, inside Christ Church at S. Harrison and South Streets) from 4-6 p.m.
• The Children's Quick Draw is on the lawn of the Academy Art Museum from 10 a.m. until noon. Space is limited and pre-registration for the Children's Quick Draw is encouraged.

For more information about either event, visit www.pleinair-Easton.com, email pleinair-easton@goeaston.net or phone (410) 822-7297

The 3 rd Annual Plein Air–Easton! Painting Competition and Arts Festival is to be held July 22-29, 2007. Finished works from the 4-day painting competition will be exhibited at the Academy Art Museum , beginning Friday evening, July 27 with a ticketed Collectors Preview Party, and continuing all day Saturday and Sunday, July 28 and 29. Other attractions during the event include gallery exhibits, collectors' brunch, world-class speakers, painting workshops, art demonstrations, entertainment, chamber music, film, outdoor theater, and children's events. The festival is sponsored by Easton Main Street , the Avalon Foundation, and the Academy Art Museum . Most attractions are free and open to the public .

Small Town Celebrates a Big Birthday

Rock Hall's Tricentennial

By Donna Whicher

How do you celebrate a birthday 3 centuries in the making? With a year-long party, of course. Rock Hall is in the midst of commemorating its tricentennial, and the celebration will hit some high notes in July and August. Everyone is invited to join in the festivities, which feature jousting, historic Bay vessels, the town's famous seafood, and a sweetly edible float in a festive parade.

Founded in 1707, Rock Hall was a bustling crossroads in the colonial era—travelers headed to Philadelphia and New York often paused to rest in the village. James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington spent nights in Rock Hall. Fast forward to 2007: Rock Hall's grand celebration is bound for the history books too!

Even though the explorer John Smith didn't stop at Rock Hall on his 1608 voyage—he passed it by—a re-creation of his shallop (open boat) will pay an exclusive visit on Tuesday, July 17, to honor the town's birthday. Colleen Moore is director of Chestertown's Sultana Projects, Inc.'s Captain John Smith Four Hundred Project. She says the town will transform into “a huge, fun party. There will be standard, contemporary festival fare, including crab s , and live music to rock Rock Hall.”

According to Moore , one of the evening's highlights will be the chance for partygoers (especially young ones) to talk with the boat's crew, modern-day explorers who began retracing Smith's expedition in May. Moore points out, “These are twelve individuals from very different backgrounds who have dedicated 4 months of their lives to journey more than 1000 miles on the Bay, in the summer no less. They have had some hardships and challenges to deal with,” she adds, referring to jellyfish, mosquitoes, and roasting summer weather. But surprisingly, “the shallop can sail so well, even in light wind, the crew recently made a 22-mile voyage against the wind. So it was good to find out that even upwind, she can get from point A to point B.” See exactly how smoothly the shallop moves as it rows around Swan Creek before docking at Rock Hall Harbor at 6 p.m.

In addition to the crew's firsthand stories, an educational exhibition tent will display what John Smith saw on his journey. This project has drawn support from the governors of Virginia, Delaware, and Maryland; retired Navy vice admiral and current head of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Conrad C. Lautenbacher; and Stephen Adkins, a representative of the Chickahominy Tribe. Maryland Public Television is following along and filming a documentary of the journey, which inaugurates the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail—the USA 's first all-water national historic trail. Festivities begin at 5 p.m.

According to Cindy Genther, publicity chairperson for the Rock Hall Tricentennial, Rock Hall's 300 th Birthday Party, August 10–12, will be rich with patriotic, religious, and local flavors. She says, “The wonderful composer Joseph Martin wrote a new anthem, ‘Community of Faith,' dedicated to the Rock Hall tricentennial.” On Friday night, the anthem “will be sung by our community choir at the Heritage of Faith Concert at 7:30 p.m. in the Rock Hall Fire House.” As people gather along Main Street at 4 p.m. on Saturday, “a military flyover will kick off the parade, which features bands and floats.” One spectacular float is the “birthday cake float, built with 2000 cupcakes. At 7:30 p.m. , we'll distribute the birthday cupcakes at the town bulkhead , and fireworks set to music will be launched from a barge in the harbor at dusk.” Sunday features a feast of spectacular local crabs harvested by Rock Hall ' ' s own watermen , at 2 p.m. at the town bulkhead. A tent will be set up for this rain-or-shine event.

Grab Your Calendar

You won't want to miss the special one-time festivities or the grander-than-ever annual events honoring Rock Hall's birthday.

Kent County Waterman's Day

July 1

1 p.m.

Bulkhead, Caroline Avenue

Most patriotic workboat contest, anchor toss competition, and more.

Fourth of July Fireworks

July 3

9 p.m.

Rock Hall Harbor

That's right—bombs burst in the air a day early, allowing families making the rounds on the Eastern Shore fireworks circuit to enjoy two spangled-sky evenings in a row.

Rock Hall Parade

July 4

10 a.m.

Main Street

Food, music, horseshoe contests, turtle races, and floats galore.

Smith Shallop Visit

July 17

5 p.m.

Bulkhead, Caroline Avenue

A replica of Captain John Smith's shallop brings Chesapeake Bay history back to life. Music, food, and entertainment.

Rock Hall's 300 th Birthday Party

August 10–12

7 p.m. Friday, Rock Hall Fire House

4 p.m. Saturday Main Street

2 p.m. Sunday, bulkhead, Caroline Street

Honor the founding of Rock Hall. Town-wide bash, parade, fireworks, and crab feast.

Jousting Tournament

September 1

Time TBA

The area's best show off their skill at the official state sport of Maryland. The Eastern Shore of Maryland Jousting Association from Queen Anne's County, food vendors, and kid-friendly activities.

Rock Hall Oyster Festival

October 13 & 14

Times TBA

Sail aboard a working skipjack to watch oysters being harvested and then transferred to buyboats. Shucking competitions, local restaurants' oyster specialties, and “Jazz on the Half-Shell.”

Lighted Boat Parade

December 1

Time TBA

Santa comes to town on a workboat! A glimmering parade of vessels competes for prizes. Special concert by the Maryland Boys Choir, featuring sixty boys from nine Maryland counties.

For more information, visit http://www.rockhallmd.com or call (410) 778-0416.

Crabs Reign Supreme This Summer

As the rising sun slices through the morning mist, workboats on the Tred Avon River have already been out long before dawn, their motors chugging as they search for that crustacean delicacy known as the Maryland blue crab. This ungainly creature has been the focus of an industry and culture indigenous to the Chesapeake Bay for hundreds of years and celebrating it has become a time-honored tradition. Crab-related festivities are taking place all over the Shore this summer; Cambridge and St. Michaels are joining in on the fun.

A Taste of Cambridge

To highlight what's been happening to revitalize the city, she's been instrumental in organizing its 3 rd annual Taste of Cambridge , to be held downtown . On the evening of July 14 th , she expects about 5000 visitors to feast on crabs and other Eastern Shore delicacies. They'll also be able to help judge the Crab Cook-off. Ten restaurants will compete in this popular event to determine which establishment makes the best crab dishes.

Each is allowed to compete in the following categories: Soup, crab dip, crab cake, and an open crab category. The creations will be rated by five professional judges and also by a popular vote from the public. To participate, you must purchase a $15 bracelet at the ticket booth. It's well worth the price to get the chance to sample all those savory concoctions and vote for your favorite entries.

Another popular event is the professional crab-picking contest. Top pickers from five local packing houses will vie for the honor of being the best in Cambridge . Their fans will be cheering as they watch them flash their picking knives back and forth to see who can flip the crabs open the fastest to extract the most and best quality back fin and claw meat.

Local DJ, Smooth Jimmy G, will keep the party going as kids of all ages try the hula-hoop and limbo contests. Children aged 5-12 should enjoy the Lego Build a Block contest. Divided up into teams of four, they'll have 45 minutes to build the best downtown block of Cambridge .

More daring individuals will want to participate in the watermelon eating contest, which they'll be able to do with both hands tied behind their backs. Contestants should really be able to sink their teeth into this competition.

To learn more go to www.cambridgemainstreet.com or call 410-228-1000. Cambridge is off of Rt. 50 between Easton and Salisbury . Admission is free.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum 's 25 th Annual Crab Festival

The outlandish Maryland Crab Queens will help kick off Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum 's (CBMM) 25 th Annual Crab Festival, a 2-day long celebration, by greeting guests with red crab bead necklaces and trading cards on Saturday, July 28 th . In real life the Crab Queens are a group of nurses with demanding careers, but at the festival they become five flamboyant redheads (all named Yvette). Donning red wigs, tiaras, capris, and sunglasses, they're not hard to miss! Be sure to get a bumper sticker inscribed with their motto, Maryland Crab Queens rule the Chesapeake .

While the Queens are sure to impress, the real stars of this much-anticipated St. Michaels event are the crabs, however. See the crawling creatures in educational exhibits; watch them dangle from a trotline; and eat them steamed. Michael Valliant, Director of Media Relations, says people ask him two basic questions about the festival. “They want to know how they can get out on the water and what they can get to eat.” This year he has great answers for both queries.

Food first: The featured ingredient in a majority of the festival fare is—you guessed it—crab! Steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soup are among the Bay favorites being dished up. Local restaurants will also be providing cooking demonstrations that will showcase how crabmeat can be used in soups, dips, and aromatic entrees. Saturday evening's supreme All-you-can-eat buffet from 4:30-8 p.m. will round out the festivities. Old Bay , cold beer, fresh corn on the cob, and ripe watermelon are the perfect complements to a delicious main dish.

Now, on to the water: There are options for all types. Adventurous souls will have a chance to board a replica Smith Island crabbing skiff to learn how trotlining works. They'll see about a 1000 feet of baited fishing line that's weighted down with anchors, slide over a roller, mounted on the side of the boat. Next, they'll notice hungry crabs clinging onto the bait just before they're scooped up in long handled dip nets and tossed into a bushel basket.

Romantics can enjoy live band music and a sunset cruise down the Miles River .

Ecology buffs can listen to Captain Ed Farley's fascinating narratives about oystering as they sail down the river on the skipjack H.M. Krentz. They'll even be able to help him pull up his oyster dredge.

“One big focus this year is the Watermen's Wharf,” says Valliant. You can visit this replica watermen's shack and learn about the life cycle of the crab, or tong for oysters in the small oyster bed. The younger set will also want to visit the big Kids Town tent. Here they can paint crabs, toss crab beanbags and catch a ride on Mr. Jim, the museum's buy boat.

Professional crab picker, Alice Palmer, whose mother was an employee of the old Coulbourne &Jewitt Seafood and Packing Company (which used to be located on what is now the Museum campus) will tell about her mother's crab picking days.

To get more of a taste of what's happening, visit the museum's Web site at www.cbmm.org or call 410-745-2916.

—Anne McNulty

Theater: On Stage in July and August

Murder Most Shakespeare by the Peake Players opens July 13 at Todd Performing Arts Center in Wye Mills.

Eastern Shore

Ah, Wilderness ! Eugene O'Neill's only comedy is a classic coming-of-age story set in 1906 Connecticut . Young Richard Miller has been reading the likes of Shaw, Wilde, and Ibsen when his girlfriend spurns him on the Fourth of July. In response, Richard decides to experience first-hand what he has read about. But Richard quickly discovers that what makes for good reading doesn't necessarily make for good living. Ah! Wilderness offers a nostalgic look back at middle-class family life at the turn-of-the century. At Church Hill Theatre, Walnut St. , Church Hill. July 6–22. $7–15. (410) 758-1331

GEORGE M! The Tred Avon Players present the life story of George M. Cohan, a giant of the American musical theater who gave us such songs as “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “Over There,” “You're A Grand Old Flag,” and “Give My Regards to Broadway.” Follow him from his childhood on the vaudeville circuit to New York for his 25-year reign of the Broadway stage. Features 15 classic Cohan songs and a large chorus of singers. At Oxford Community Center , Oxford Rd. , Oxford . August 10–26. Call for ticket prices. (410) 226-0061.

Murder Most Shakespeare . The Peake Players present a satirical condensation of Shakespeare's greatest works in one hilarious show. When bodies begin to fall, you can help criminologist Portia Peerless solve the dastardly crimes and bring the murderer to justice. At Todd Performing Arts Center , Chesapeake College , Wye Mills. July 13–22. $30. (410) 827-5687

Tartuffe . When Orgon, a wealthy family man, invites the seemingly pious and religious Tartuffe into his home, he offers his guest the best of everything he has. Ignoring friends and family who claim Tartuffe is a scheming hypocrite, Orgon plans to force his daughter to marry Tartuffe. When Orgon learns that Tartuffe has attempted to seduce his wife, he orders him to leave, but Tartuffe does not intend to go quietly. First performed in 1664, this classic French farce by Moliere is full of wit and humor. At Church Hill Theatre, Walnut St. , Church Hill. August 10–26. $7–15. (410) 758-1331

Annapolis

Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street is Stephen Sondheim and Hugh Wheeler's chilling, suspenseful tale of the unjustly exiled barber who returns to 19th-century London seeking revenge against the judge who framed him and ravaged his young wife. Sophisticated, macabre, visceral, and uncompromising, Sweeney Todd mixes intense drama with funny humor. At Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 143 Compromise St. , Annapolis . June 29–July 28. $15. (410) 268-9212.

Thoroughly Modern Millie tells the story of young Millie Dillmount in a New York full of intrigue and jazz at a time when the rules of love and social behavior were changing forever. Filled with frisky flappers, dashing leading men, and a dragon-lady audiences will love to hate, Thoroughly Modern Millie is a high-spirited musical romp through the 1920s. At Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 143 Compromise St. , Annapolis . Aug. 3–Sept. 1. $15. (410) 268-9212.

Baltimore

Sight Unseen . An American mega-artist travels to England for his first European retrospective and decides to visit his original muse and former lover. The jaded artist, whose work commands astronomical prices, wants to rediscover the passion and creativity that used to inform his work. But the visit—and a difficult interview with a German art critic who questions his motives as a Jewish artist—sparks an unexpected crisis of identity. Donald Margulies's Obie-winning play tackles issues of race, religion, and belonging with humor and incisive dialogue. At Everyman Theatre, 1727 N. Charles St. , Baltimore . August 29–October 7. $15–30.

(410) 752-2208.

Contemporary Photography and the Garden—Deceits and Fantasies

Through September 16
At the Delaware Art Museum , Wilmington
(302) 571-9590
www.delart.org

Italian Landscape by Mark Quinn

Gardens were a popular subject in late nineteenth-century photography, but fell out of favor in the early twentieth century as artists chose to focus on images of modernity and urban life. Since the mid-1980s, however, gardens have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity.

Deceits and Fantasies features the works of sixteen American and European artists, whose depictions of gardens range from the beautiful and tranquil to the dark and stormy.

As a complement to Deceits and Fantasies , an exhibition of nature photography entitled The Cultivated Eye will be on display in Galleries 11 and 12. This companion exhibit takes viewers to familiar places that they might not recognize, highlighting the vitality and gloom of the natural world.

Rodin: Expression & Influence

August 1 through February 10
At the Baltimore Museum of Art, Baltimore
(443) 573-1700
www.artbma.org

The Modern Masters Series at the BMA continues with this intimate one-gallery exhibition that explores the sculptural legacy of Auguste Rodin through nearly thirty works by the artist and his contemporaries. Considered the most popular sculptor of the early twentieth century, Rodin inspired a generation of artists from Edgar Degas to Henri Matisse. The exhibition highlights Rodin's expressive variations, while tracing the ways in which his artistic process charted new territory and both inspired and provoked reaction from his contemporaries.

Key Ingredients: America by Food

August 10 through September 22
At the Historical Society of Cecil County , Elkton
(410) 398-1790
www.keyingredients.org

A Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition, Key Ingredients explores the connections between Americans and the foods they produce, prepare, preserve, and present. The exhibit presents a provocative and thoughtful look at the historical, regional, and social traditions that merge in everyday meals and celebrations. Through a selection of artifacts, photographs, and illustrations, Key Ingredients examines the evolution of the American kitchen and how food industries have responded to the technological innovations that have enabled Americans to choose an ever-wider variety of frozen, prepared, and fresh foods. Key Ingredients also looks beyond the home to restaurants, diners, and celebrations that help build a sense of community through food.

Desiderio Da Settignano: Sculptor of Renaissance Florence

Through October 8
At the National Gallery of Art, Washington , D.C.
(202) 737-4215

Young Boy by Desiderio da Settignano

Desiderio da Settignano (c. 1429–1464) is regarded as one of the greatest sculptors of the Italian Renaissance. Trained in Florence in the mid-fifteenth century, Desiderio is believed to have studied under Donatello. Due to Desiderio's premature death, very few works by the artist exist. This exhibition features twenty-five works from around the world, including the artist's tender busts of children, his extraordinary low reliefs, his groups of the Virgin and Child, and his delicate portraits of women. The exhibition catalogue is the first book on Desiderio since 1962 and the first ever published in English. It includes illustrated essays on two masterpieces that cannot leave the Florentine churches for which they were made: the tomb of the Florentine chancellor Carlo Marsuppini in Santa Croce (c. 1453–1459) and the sacrament tabernacle in the Medici church of San Lorenzo (completed 1461).

7/6 Chester River Runoff at the Prince Theater, Chestertown, (410) 810-2060. The name of this band may give away the fact that these musicians are local boys. Discovering a shared love of bluegrass music, this young Chestertown-based group joined together 3 years ago in hopes of producing some quality, high-energy, country-bluegrass. What resulted was a unique, smooth brand of sound that the band has labeled “Chesapeake Newgrass.” Today, with a loyal following, an impressive catalogue of original songs, and a line-up that has taken them many miles from home, Chester River Runoff has quickly grown from a small town band to a group of respected professionals—who still excel at letting loose, of course!

7/12 Catfish Hodge at Millstream Park in Centreville, (410) 758-2520. With 35 years on the road and twenty-four albums under his belt, this “American folk blues hero” has certainly earned the title. Known for his clever and lighthearted lyrics; a deep, passionate voice; meticulous guitar playing; and a powerful delivery of the final product, this Detroit native (who formed the Chicken Legs Band with members of Little Feat in the 80s) always impresses. This performance, free to the public, is part of Queen Anne's County Arts Council's Thursdays in the Park series. For a guaranteed good time, catch some Catfish!

7/14 King Wilkie at the Mainstay, Rock Hall, (410) 639-9133. Armed with the captivating harmonies of two lead singers, a mandolin, ukulele, harmonica, accordion, banjoes, and a glockenspiel (!), this sextet from Richmond , Virginia , is fully prepared to woo the most discerning music lover. The band, which started as a classically styled bluegrass group, has “transformed into something more fluid” since the release of their latest album, Low Country Suite (June 2007). With a fresh set of tracks that embody both powerful, raw emotion (be it grief, anger, or passion), and a mature (almost-masterful) knowledge of the instruments they wield, this new venture has allowed the talented young musicians of King Wilkie to attain the royal status they deserve.

7/19 Aimee Mann at the Avalon Theatre, Easton , (410) 822-7299. Pop-rock singer and songwriter Aimee Mann (a Richmond , Virginia native) plays one of only a few scheduled U.S. dates at Easton 's Avalon Theatre this summer. In the 80s, Mann gained international notoriety as the front woman for the new wave band, ‘Til Tuesday. The success of the band's song “Voices Carry,” which played in heavy rotation on MTV and the radio, caused millions to swoon over Mann's sweet, melodic voice. Mann later began a solo career, which reached a high in 1999, when she contributed eight songs (one of them earning an Academy-award nomination) to the soundtrack of Paul Thomas Anderson's film, Magnolia . Mann's latest release, The Forgotten Arm (2005), is a concept album—a love story—set in the 70s. A honky-tonk, rock, alt-country journey, this tale about “the inexorable pull of co-dependency in human relationships” is a departure for Mann—and the emotion in her live performance is definitely worth checking out.

7/25 Kevin Kline at Concerts on the Beach, Ocean City , (410) 250-0125. Award-winning singer, songwriter, and musician Kevin Kline is gracing Ocean City 's boardwalk this July with a sure-to-be scorching hot performance. Part of the much-anticipated Concert on the Beach series, Kline's appearance is just one stop on a busy summer line-up for this locally based artist. A singer and piano player in the D.C/Baltimore music circuit since the age of 16, Kline went on to perform with Johnny Monet & the Impressionists, and began a solo career in 1999. A group of talented band mates soon joined Kline and joined him in several major tours, opening for the likes of Ben Folds Five, Kool & the Gang, and Chicago. In 2001, the group returned to their Maryland roots, to record a second album, Live from West Street , at the Rams Head OnStage. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to shake it at Kline's seaside performance.

8/18 The Lovell Sisters at the Mainstay, Rock Hall (410) 639-9133. Jessica (21), Megan (18), and Rebecca (16) are the Lovell Sisters, one of the hottest and most talented young acts to hit the folk/country scene since the Dixie Chicks! These Georgia gals, all classically trained in violin and piano, made it big in 2005, when they won NPR's “Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor” National Teen Competition, and were featured on TBS Storyline's “ Backstage Pass. ” That same year, their album, When Forever Rolls Around , made its debut. The sisters' tight harmonies and stellar fiddle, dobro, and mandolin playing, along with acoustic guitar by Jake Stargel (16) and bass by Andy Nall, result in fresh, sweet, memorable performances.

Ongoing Attractions

Upper Shore

CECIL COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM & JOHN F. DEWITT MILITARY MUSEUM , 135 East Main St. , Elkton. 18th-century loghouse, antique toys, dolls, quilts, artwork, and vintage clothing. Open Mon., 12-4 p.m.; Tues., 6-8:30 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; & the 4th Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (410) 398-1790. www.cchistory.org

CHESAPEAKE & DELAWARE (C&D) CANAL MUSEUM , 815 Bethel Rd. , Chesapeake City. 1829 pump house museum features a large water wheel and artifacts. Open Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. (410) 885-5621.

CHESAPEAKE BAY ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER , 600 Discovery Lane , Grasonville. 610-acre waterfront campus offers hiking, bird watching, canoe/kayak rentals, and adult and youth educational programs. Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed major holidays. $5 w/discounts. (410) 827-6694. www.bayrestoration.org

CRAY HOUSE , Cockey's Lane, Stevensville. Wood dwelling (ca.1809) features a gambrel roof, post-and-plank construction, and hand-sawn logs. Voluntary donations. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/STcrayhouse.htm

INDEPENDENT TOURS OF HISTORIC SITES , Kent County . Self-guided walking or driving tour. For a map, contact the Office of Tourism & Development at (410) 778-0416. www.kentcounty.com

KENT MUSEUM , 13685 Turner's Creek Rd. , Kennedyville. Rural heritage collection and historical sites. Granary (ca. 1830), tractor pulls, trails, picnic area. Donations welcome. Open the 1st & 3rd Sat. of the month, 12-3 p.m. (410) 348-9149. www.kentcounty.com/farmmuseum

MASSEY AIR MUSEUM , 33541 Maryland Line Rd. , Massey. Vintage aircraft display. Open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & by appointment. $5. (410) 928-5270. www.masseyaero.org

MOUNT HARMON PLANTATION , 600 Mt. Harmon Rd. , Earleville. The Plantation House (ca. 1730) features American and European antiques, formal boxwood garden, 200-year-old yews, and a nature preserve. Open Thurs.-Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $8 w/discounts. (410) 275-8819. www.mountharmon.org/Welcome.htm

MUSEUM AT GEDDES-PIPER HOUSE (ca. 1784), 101 Church Alley, Chestertown. Three-story house with displays of art, textiles, maps, and furniture. $4. Open Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 1-4 p.m. (410) 778-3499. www.kentcountyhistory.org/geddes.php

OLD STEVENSVILLE POST OFFICE , Love Point Rd. , Stevensville. Features shot-gun-style architecture, gingerbread eaves, and a sorting room. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/STpo.htm

PAW PAW MUSEUM , 98 N. Main St. , Port Deposit. The site of an early Methodist church (ca. 1821) is now a restored museum. Open the 2nd & 4th Sun.of the month, 1-5 p.m. & the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (410) 378-4480. www.portdeposit.com/History/pawpaw.htm

QUEEN ANNE'S MUSEUM OF EASTERN SHORE LIFE , 126 Dulin Clark Rd. , Centreville. Rural life displays include a 19th-century tenant house, antique furnishings, and vehicles from various eras. Open Sat. & Sun., 1-4 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/mesl.htm

ROCK HALL MUSEUM , 5585 Main St. , Rock Hall. Native American artifacts, youth exhibits, decoys, model boats, & displays featuring Rock Hall's waterman heritage. Open Sat., Sun., & holidays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 639-2296.

STEVENSVILLE TRAIN DEPOT , Cockey's Lane, Stevensville. Restored 1902 depot. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & by appointment. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/StTrain.htm

SUDLERSVILLE TRAIN STATION MUSEUM , 101 Linden St. , Sudlersville. Devoted to history of Sudlersville and includes baseball Hall of Famer Jimmy Foxx memorabilia. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/Sudltrain.htm

TOLCHESTER BEACH REVISITED MUSEUM , Sharp & Main St. , Rock Hall. Local memorabilia from Rock Hall's resort heyday. Open Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & weekdays by appointment. Free admission. (410) 778-5347.

TUCKER HOUSE , 124 S. Commerce St. , Centreville. Federal home (ca. 1792) features vintage furnishings, meat house, and herb garden. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & by appointment. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/tuckerhouse.htm

UPPER BAY MUSEUM , 219 Walnut St., North East. Historic boats, hunting & fishing gear, and Native-American artifacts. Open Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. & Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (410) 287-2675.

VIRGINIA GENT DECKER ARBORETUM AT WASHINGTON COLLEGE , 300 Washington Ave. , Chestertown. Native and exotic imported trees surrounded by historic college architecture. Self-guided walking tours year-round. Free admission. For a map & information, call (800) 422-1782 x7726. www.arboretum.washcoll.edu

WATERMAN'S MUSEUM , 20880 Rock Hall Rd. , Rock Hall. Historic and modern equipment used to harvest seafood, a shanty, and boats. Open daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & by appointment. Donations welcome. (410) 778-6697. www.havenharbour.com

WRIGHT'S CHANCE , 119 South Commerce St. , Centreville. An 18th-century plantation home furnished with period pieces. Open the 1st Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & by appointment. Donations welcome. (410) 604-2100. www.historicqac.org/sites/wrightschance.htm

WYE GRIST MILL , 14296 Old Wye Mills Rd. , Wye Mills. Open Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun., 1-4 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 827-3850. www.historicqac.org/sites/WMgristmill.htm

Mid Shore

ACADEMY ART MUSEUM , 106 South St. , Easton . Renovated 18th-century buildings present permanent and traveling exhibitions as well as performing arts for adults and children. Museum open Mon., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Tues., Wed., Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. $3 w/discounts. Free admission on Wednesdays. (410) 822-2787. www.art-academy.org

ADKINS ARBORETUM, 12610 Eveland Rd., Ridgely. A 400-acre native garden and preserve. Features year-round programs in ecology, horticulture, and natural history for all ages. Open daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed major holidays. $1-3. (410) 634-2847. www.adkinsarboretum.org

BLACKWATER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, 2145 Key Wallace Dr., Cambridge. A 27,000-acre refuge featuring trails, educational programs, wildlife exhibits, gift shop, spotting scopes, and more. Trails open daily dawn-dusk. Visitor center open Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $3 per vehicle. (410) 228-2677. www.fws.gov/blackwater

BRANNOCK MARITIME MUSEUM , 106 Hayward St., Cambridge. Dorchester County's maritime heritage, including books, ship models, navigational tools, and boat building records. Open Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun., 1:30-4 p.m. (410) 228-6938.

CHESAPEAKE BAY MARITIME MUSEUM , 213 N. Talbot St., St. Michaels. Features exhibits, youth and adult educational programs, summer concerts, and an annual food and wine festival. Home of the Hooper Strait Lighthouse. Open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. $5-13. (410) 745-2916. www.cbmm.org

CHOPTANK RIVER HERITAGE CENTER , Joppa Steamboat Wharf, 10215 River Landing Rd., Denton. Historic schooner, steamboat warehouse, rural- and river-life exhibits. Open Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (410) 479-4950 . www.riverheritage.org

DORCHESTER ART CENTE R , 120 High St., Cambridge. Exhibits, gift shop, gallery shows, classes, performances, and lectures. Call for hours. (410) 228-7782. www.dorchesterartscenter.org

HARRIET TUBMAN MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER , 424 Race St., Cambridge. Tours and exhibits relating to the conductor of the Underground Railroad. Call for hours. (410) 228-0401.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF TALBOT COUNTY MUSEUM & GARDENS , 25 S. Washington St., Easton. Museum, three historic homes, artifacts, photographs, Federal gardens, guided tours, & resident artisan demonstrations. Open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. (410) 822-0773. www.hstc.org

MEREDITH HOUSE & NEILD MUSEUM, 902 La Grange Ave., Cambridge. Georgian home features memorabilia from the county's seven Maryland governors, antique dolls & toys, formal & herb gardens, Native American artifacts. Call for hours. (410) 228-7953.

MUSEUM OF RURAL LIFE , 16 N. School St., Denton. Depicts historical lifestyles of Caroline County. Open Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m. & Sun., 12-4 p.m. (410) 479-2055. www.carolinehistory.org

OXFORD CUSTOM HOUSE, N. Morris St. and the Strand. An exact replica of the first Federal Custom House built by Jeremiah Banning, the first federal Collector of Customs. Open Sat. and Sun. afternoons.

OXFORD MUSEUM , 101 S. Morris St., Oxford. Oxford memorabilia, gift shop, soda fountain. Open Mon.,Wed., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun., 12-4 p.m. (410) 226-0191. www.oxfordmuseum.org

PICKERING CREEK AUDUBON CENTER, 11450 Audubon Lane, Easton. A 400-acre working farm featuring a variety of habitats, nature trails, and adult and youth educational programs. Trails and viewing areas are open to the public at no charge from dawn til dusk daily. Office hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (410) 822-4903.

RICHARDSON MARITIME MUSEUM , 401 High St., Cambridge. Maritime exhibits including ship models, hand tools, watermen's harvest equipment, and boat building and restoration. Open Wed. & Sun., 1-4 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Donations welcome. (410) 221-1871. www.richardsonmuseum.org

SPOCOTT WINDMILL FOUNDATION , 1611 Hudson Rd., Lloyds. Historic town buildings include colonial tenant house, one-room schoolhouse, smokehouse, doctor's office, and depression-era general store. Free. Open daily, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (410) 228-7090.

ST. MICHAELS MUSEUM AT ST. MARY'S SQUARE , between Mulberry & East Chestnut Sts., St. Michaels. Open Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & by appointment. (410) 745-9561.

VIENNA HERITAGE MUSEUM, 303 Race St., Vienna. Home to the last operational mother-of-pearl button factory machinery in the United States. Button making demos. Open 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (410) 376-3840.

Lower Shore

ACCOHANNOCK INDIAN TRIBAL MUSEUM , 28380 Crisfield-Marion Rd., Marion Station. Native American cultural programs and classes. Open Mon.-Fri. Call for hours. Admission. (410) 623-2660.

CALVIN B. TAYLOR HOUSE MUSEUM , 208 N. Main St., Berlin. Local history displays in a period-furnished, 19th-century home. Open Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat., 1-4 p.m. Donations suggested. (410) 641-1019. www.taylorhousemuseum.org

EDWARD H. NABB RESEARCH CENTER FOR DELMARVA HISTORY & CULTURE, Salisbury University, Salisbury. Unique regional repository for lower Delmarva Peninsula historical records, artifacts, books, and family histories. Call for hours. (410) 543-6312.

FURNACE TOWN LIVING HERITAGE MUSEUM , 3816 Old Furnace Rd., Snow Hill. Iron furnace, garden, museum, workshops, programs, and special events. Open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission. (410) 632-2032. www.furnacetown.com

GIRDLETREE BARNES BANK , Snow Hill Rd., Girdletree. The restored bank serves as a museum featuring Girdletree memorabilia. Open Wed. & Sat., 1-4 p.m. Donation requested. (410) 632-1641.

J. MILLARD TAWES HISTORICAL MUSEUM , 3 Ninth St. & Somers Cove Marina, Crisfield. Native and Colonial exhibits, trolley, and walking tours. Open Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission. (410) 968-2501. www.crisfieldheritagefoundation.org/museums/historical.htm

JULIA A. PURNELL MUSEUM , 208 West Market St., Snow Hill. Over 10,000 pieces of Indian, Colonial, Victorian, African-American, and industrial artifacts. Open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun., 1-4 p.m. Admission. (410) 632-0515. www.purnellmuseum.com

MT. ZION ONE ROOM SCHOOL MUSEUM , Ironshire St., Snow Hill. Antique teaching texts and classroom furnishings. Open Thurs.-Sat., 1-4 p.m. (410) 632-0669.

OCEAN CITY LIFESAVING STATION MUSEUM , Ocean City. Sand from around the world, shipwreck artifacts, bathing suit and boardwalk exhibits. Call for hours. Admission. (410) 289-4991. www.ocmuseum.org

SALISBURY ZOOLOGICAL PARK , 755 S. Park Dr., Salisbury. Hundreds of mammal, bird, and reptile species surrounded by ponds and sculpted trails. Open daily, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Free admission. (410) 548-3188. www.salisburyzoo.org

SMITH ISLAND VISITOR'S CENTER & CULTURAL MUSEUM , 20846 Caleb Jones Rd., Ewell. Exhibits relating to Island life, the role of women, working the water, and the distinctive local speech pattern. Open daily, 12-4 p.m. Admission. (410) 425-3351 or (410) 651-2292. www.smithisland.org

STURGIS ONE ROOM SCHOOL , corner of Front & Willow Sts., Pocomoke. A century-old structure housing historical artifacts reflecting African-American and rural school life. Open Wed. & Sat., 1-4 p.m. & by appointment. Admission. (410) 957-1913.

TEACKLE MANSION & GIFT SHOP , 11736 Mansion St., Princess Anne. 1806 silk world map, Chippendale furniture, and elaborate architecture. Open Wed., Sat., Sun., 1-3 p.m. Admission. (410) 651-2238.

WARD MUSEUM OF WILDFOWL ART , 909 Schumaker Dr., Salisbury. World's largest collection of wildfowl art, theater, children's programs, and adult workshops. Open Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sun., 12-5 p.m. Admission. (410) 742-4988. www.wardmuseum.org

Shore Talk

By Michael Driscoll

Nicole Budden, student of Gettysburg College —“A lot of silt comes from up north in Pennsylvania . We need to stop dumping that into the Bay and to start making responsible choices.”	Deborah Taylor, of Washington, D.C. —“Everybody needs to stop dumping. Out in the middle of the Bay it doesn't look so bad, but you can see the pollution around the shoreline.”
Doris Groves—“ We need to stop growth in Kent County , as well as to stop runoff and the use of chemicals by area farms. And boaters need to take responsibility and stop tossing stuff in the water.”	Joshua Price, of Kent Island, Just Plain Joe employee —“People need to stop littering, and drivers hauling cargo should tie down their loads better. I see trash floating all over the road when I'm driving around.”
Lisa Shifflet, dealer for Stevensville Antiques —“Just do away with pesticides that wash off people's lawns. There should be more citizen education so that people know what their actions are doing and how to improve things.”	Louis Endrichs, of Centreville, employee of a company that produces anti-pollution devices —“Eliminate runoff and the use of pesticides that wash off land into the rivers that feed into the Bay. Also, dumping of untreated sewage should be stopped.”
Herb Cully, of Annapolis, co-owner of Just plain Joe —“People could recycle more and not dump their cans when they drive.”	Bonnie McGregor, dealer for Stevensville Antiques —“There should be a stringent fine for boaters caught in the act of polluting the Bay.”
Logan Stewart and Andrew Wingate, students— “Boaters can keep their craft in better repair so that engine fluids don't leak into the water.”

The Quick Six: Carl O. Snowden

Carl Snowden speaks at the opening ceremony of the Kunta Kinte-Alex Haley memorial in Annapolis in 2003.

This month we directed six questions to Carl O. Snowden. After serving on the Annapolis City Council and then on the staff of former County Executive Janet Owens, he was named the first director for civil rights in the Maryland Attorney General's Office, a position newly created this past January. A native of Annapolis , Snowden has worked tirelessly (even since his days as a Key School student) on civil rights issues. Twenty years ago he was involved with the Maryland Attorney General's Office in ensuring that the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was fully enforced in our state. Then–Attorney General Stephen H. Sachs and Snowden were able to reach an accord that led to scores of new legislative districts being created in Maryland , resulting in African Americans being elected to city councils, county councils, and the Maryland General Assembly. More recently, Snowden helped create the first Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in the State of Maryland .

What's Up? Annapolis : Could you describe your new position and its importance to the state?

Carl Snowden:  First, I was delighted to be asked by Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler to serve as the first director for civil rights in the Maryland Attorney General's Office. I have been traveling around the State of Maryland addressing systemic issues involving race, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, and issues involving Americans with disabilities.

I see my role as ensuring that the civil rights of all Marylanders are enforced. Many of us are aware of the great progress that the nation made due to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and literally thousands of other civil rights activists. Our society is more inclusive and fair because of the leadership of Dr. King. However, we are all aware that the goals that he gave his life for have not been fully realized.

When the Attorney General created this position he signaled that his office would be a leader in enforcing the civil rights laws of Maryland and the United States .

WUA: What are some of the differences in working at the State level versus working for a county?

CS: The major difference is how many people you have an opportunity to impact on. I have literally been all over the state, from Frederick to Snow Hill and everything in between. I am working with a group of dedicated assistant attorney generals who have a wealth of knowledge and expertise and are able to assist me in numerous ways.

Today I am addressing issues in Baltimore City ,  Dorchester County , Montgomery County , Prince George 's County, and  Somerset . I believe that even in this short period of time we have made a difference in the State of Maryland .

WUA: You've been in the position now for almost 6 months. What are some of your goals or benchmarks and do you feel you are on track to accomplish them?

CS: In the last 6 months I have addressed issues involving education, employment, housing, and voting rights. In the coming months we will be focusing on voting irregularities of 2006 and preparing recommendations for improving our electorate process for 2008 and the 2010 elections.

I also hope by the end of the year to have developed a plan to address issues involving immigrant workers and the Latino community.

WUA: How have your personal experiences while growing up in Annapolis helped shape your current role?

CS: I was greatly influenced by Dr. King and Malcolm X. As a student at Annapolis High School and the Key School (which I graduated from) I had numerous experiences that have served me well. I remember when the movie theaters, restaurants, and stores were segregated. I remember at the foot of Main Street that there were signs that read “Colored Men,” “White Gentlemen,” “White Ladies,” and “Colored Women.”

As a member of the Annapolis City Council for 12 years, I was able to get passed some important landmark legislation, e.g., the City of Annapolis is the only municipality in the state that prohibits private clubs from receiving an alcoholic beverage license if they discriminate against women, African Americans, Latinos, or other federally protected classes of people.

My experiences in the City of Annapolis , both as a legislator and community activist, have served me well in my new state position.

WUA: Do you see civil liberties exercised or acknowledged differently among classes and races in our state, and even closer to home, our state capital, Annapolis ? What is the picture you see right now?

CS: I am deeply troubled by the direction that the State of Maryland and the nation is moving toward as it relates to civil liberties. In our zeal to eradicate illicit drug use, we must be careful not to erode the civil liberties that make America the greatest nation in the world.

Questions continue to persist on whether African American and Latino drivers are being stopped more than others for traffic violations. Also, African American youth often complain about being followed and kept under greater scrutiny in malls and shopping centers than their white counterparts. We need to make sure that all Marylanders feel that their civil liberties and civil rights are being respected and protected.

WUA: What are some steps that we, the community, can take to erase such social dividing lines?

CS: One of the accomplishments that I am most proud of is the creating of the first Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in the State of Maryland . This $400,000 memorial, which is located at Anne Arundel Community College , was spearheaded by Annapolitans who believed that we needed a symbol that will help future generations erase the social dividing line. The artist who created the memorial was the same artist that created the Kunta Kinte–Alex Haley Memorial in downtown Annapolis and the Malcolm X Memorial in San Diego , California .

These individuals have demonstrated that the City of Annapolis is made up of good people who are willing to make sure that our government and society is as good as the people it serves. Annual celebrations of the birthday of Dr. King also serve to remind us of how far we have come and how much further we need to go. As a grandfather, I take great pride in knowing that my grandchild's future will be brighter than her grandfather's past.