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May 12, 2025

Cambridge Spy

Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Cambridge

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Leopold and Loeb Come to Easton: The Factory Presents “Never the Sinner”

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The Factory Arts Project will present Never the Sinner, a gripping drama by Tony Award-winning playwright John Logan. The play tells the true story of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two wealthy and intelligent young men who murdered a fourteen-year-old boy in 1924, believing they could commit the perfect crime.

Director Talley Wilford, known for his work with Groove Theatre, was drawn to this play for its connection to the modern fascination with true crime.

“What interests me about this show is what I think interests most millennials who were raised with the suburban panic of the ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s: true crime fascinates us,” said Wilford. “Our generation was raised with a fear of child abduction, satanic panic, and overall threats to the comfy lifestyles of suburban America. Much of that hysteria was overblown, but the few real cases that did occur left a lasting impact. That’s why we gravitate toward the rare and sensational true crime stories that actually happened.”

The story of Leopold and Loeb is particularly striking because the two men, described as intellectual prodigies, did not commit murder out of passion or necessity but simply to prove their own superiority. Their crime shocked the nation, and the trial that followed was one of the most highly publicized of its time. Wilford states, “The story of Leopold and Loeb is made all the more unique in that they only had a single victim, they planned it out, they had no motivation for the crime other than to prove they could do it. Not to mention, they were, in a sense, lovers at a time men could not publicly be with another man.”

The production features cast members Max Brennan, Tyler Henry, Roegan Bell, Alex Greenlee, Ray Nissen, Erik Fair, and Clay Owens, a mix of experienced performers who have worked with Wilford on past projects and new faces who bring fresh energy to the show.

Wilford shares, “Within this cast of familiars, there’s a fabulous amount of trust and community amongst us all, knowing what each other brings to the table and the level of quality expected from The Factory. It is odd to say, but the cast is having a ball bringing a show of such dark and serious subject matter to life, and we hope that the audience has as much fun as we’ve had.” While Never the Sinner deals with disturbing themes, the rehearsal process has been filled with collaboration and a deep respect for the material.

For this production, The Factory Arts Project is transforming the Waterfowl Festival Building into an intimate theatrical space. Though the venue has hosted concerts, art exhibitions, and even wrestling matches, this will be the first time a play has been performed there (that they know of). Wilford is embracing the challenge of using the space, stripping back the set and costume design to create a minimalist, immersive experience.

Never the Sinner is recommended for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, and theater lovers who appreciate complex narratives and thought-provoking themes. John Logan, who would later go on to write Red, Gladiator, The Aviator, and Skyfall, crafted a script that is both gripping and poetic. The play does not sensationalize the crime but instead asks its audience to consider the nature of justice, morality, and human psychology. While the material is intense, it is also an opportunity to reflect on the ways society responds to acts of violence and the ethical dilemmas surrounding punishment.

Wilford reflects, “I think this is the first play I’ve done in which the protagonists are not necessarily meant to be likable. To ask an audience to empathize with two unlikable, uncharismatic sociopaths is almost as difficult as taking two young and charming actors and turning them into socially repugnant people that you actively root against. Even as the play asks you to resist the urge to wish death upon two murderers, it also challenges us to consider what justice truly means. It is a reminder of one of society’s oldest mantras: ‘two wrongs do not make a right.'”

Performances of Never the Sinner will take place March 13-16, 2025, at the Waterfowl Festival Building in Easton, Maryland. Tickets and additional information can be found at The Factory Arts Project’s website.

For press inquiries, please contact Maddie Megahan, Marketing Director of The Factory Arts Project, at hello@thefactoryartsproject.org or (410) 7

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Listen to the Music by Roger Vaughan

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“Music is a mistress of order and good manners [who] makes the people milder and gentler, more moral and more reasonable.”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

There seems to be a controversy over the suspicion that Nero fiddled while Rome burned. Some say it was propaganda released by his enemies. Others say it’s true, representing Nero’s cruel disregard for his people. 

That catchphrase about fiddling while Rome burned might be the earliest one I remember. In either case, lie or truth, it has a nice ring to it. Whoever came up with it deserves an Oscar or whatever it is they award to advertising copywriters for catchy slogans like “you’ll wonder where the yellow went when you brush your teeth with Pepsodent.” Or “Brylcreem, a little dab will do ya, Brylcreem, the girls will all pursue ya.” Or “Just Do It.” Fiddling while Rome burns is right up there.

That phrase came ringing into my ears recently when a person who was very disturbed by the Constitutional crisis being perpetrated by the current Administration’s apparent blatant disregard for the rule of law called asking for help. She was very disturbed, not always successfully fighting off tears, and said she was dealing with serious depression. 

After reminding her it only raises havoc with one’s sensibilities to become frantic over things one can’t control — a logical but not very useful suggestion to a disturbed person — I had to think about how I was dealing with the daily shovels full of manure that were being carelessly heaved into the giant fan that has been installed in the White House garden where roses once bloomed. And there it was: fiddling.  

Music has been a vital part of my life since I started taking piano lessons at age 8. I remember liking a song on the radio called Tonight We Love, and asking my father if he could find the record. He knew the fellow who ran the music store. Dad came home with a recording of a piece by some Russian guy with the unpronounceable name of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was called the 1st Piano Concerto in B-flat minor, Opus 23, whatever that meant. I figured my father had blown it. Fathers aren’t cool when you are ten years old. 

I decided to play it anyway, what the heck and it changed my life. I still believe it’s one of the greatest pieces ever written. I must have listened to it 50 times since then, and it never gets old, never ceases to be emotionally stirring. And sure enough, Tonight We Love is in there, the songwriter having borrowed one of the 1st Piano’s most powerful themes and written lyrics to it. Some nerve. But that’s how I found it.

Tchaikovsky’s 1st Piano led me to his Swan Lake masterpiece and all the rest. It also generated a more intense application to the piano. I never got very good, but it is still marginally satisfying. I took music courses in college, developing a great affection for Brahms, Wagner, Chopin, Beethoven, Rachmaninov, Bruch, and Richard Stauss, among others. That helped when I interviewed the late conductors Seiji Ozawa (Boston Symphony) and Herbert von Karajan (Berlin Philharmonic). It was on the Ozawa project when I sat before the Boston Symphony’s powerful Director of Artistic Planning, a man with exhaustive knowledge of the repertoire who had a lot to say about the programs the orchestra played. His question of who my favorite composer was hung in the air while I summoned my courage to say Tchaikovsky. I hesitated, then apologized for my “top 40” response. This learned gentleman just produced a thin smile and said that Tchaikovsky is top 40 for good reason.

But I digress. Back to my friend asking for help. I shared with her how I was planning to get through this dark period in our history. I read a certain amount of news each day, keeping up with the depredation of the government – the unmitigated dismantling of departments and agencies created by Congress — because it feels like a responsible thing to do. But in this time when I find the new music unhummable, more like digitized noise accompanied by a sweaty presentation that looks more like an athletic workout than dancing, my pleasure – my life, my attitude – are gratefully enriched by revisiting the great music of the past. 

It’s a very deep well, widely varied for all tastes. It’s not just classical. 

Little Richard, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddly, and a few others got rock ‘n roll started. Elvis made it personal. The Beatles and the Stones took it mass market, and The Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Harry Nilsson, Leon Russell, Creedence Clearwater, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Bob Dylan, The Band, Mick Jagger, Elton John, Joe Cocker, Jimmy Hendrix, Count Basie, Jackson Browne, Randy Newman are just part of a very long list of incredibly talented musicians and their bands who elegantly hybridized it. And there’s Gospel, R&B, Country and Western, musicals, etc. Not to mention the array of inspired composers and artists from the 1940s, when romance – “Falling in love with love” — was a popular theme. Take your pick. 

Just browsing Facebook one can encounter a bursting cornucopia of accomplished players (like Tuba Skinny), and a score of stunning, very young prodigies. And singers Kelli O’Hara and Lady Gaga. MacCartney 3-2-1 is an uplifting video series. On the beyond-brilliant side, we’re lucky to have rare videos (YouTube) available of the late pianist Erroll Garner and brand new ones of Joscho Stephan from the Gypsy Guitar Academy, both of them playing music at a level that’s hard to believe is possible. 

Fiddling. Maybe Nero just needed a break. 

Music from the past provides a welcome distraction from the dissonance currently coming out of our nation’s capital. While it won’t quite override the racket, the great music is a reminder that our species can be impressively and beautifully creative as well as mean-spirited and greedy. 

That’s a useful thing to remember. 

Roger Vaughan, a Massachusetts native, began writing, photographing, playing music, and sailing at a young age, pursuits that shaped his lifelong career. After earning a BA in English from Brown University, he worked as an editor and writer for Saturday Evening Post and Life magazines, covering major cultural events of the 1960s and 70s. His first book, The Grand Gesture (1973), launched a prolific freelance writing career. He’s written more than 20 books, including numerous biographies, films, and many videos. Since 1980, Vaughan has lived on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where he continues his work documenting remarkable individuals and events.

   

 

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A Work of Heart: How Museums Can Strengthen Your Relationship by Daedelus Hoffman

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It’s a Tuesday night in February. The dinner plates have been cleared, the glow of the TV remote feels uninspiring, and the winter chill outside makes staying in seem like the easy choice. You and your partner sit on the couch, scrolling through your phones, each lost in your own little world. Another quiet evening, another missed opportunity to connect.

Now, imagine this instead: The two of you wander into a softly lit gallery at the Academy Art Museum. A striking painting catches your eye—bold, unfamiliar, something about it stirs you. You turn to your partner and ask, “What do you see?” They hesitate, then offer an answer that surprises you. You hadn’t thought of it that way. The conversation unfolds, ideas are exchanged, and suddenly, you’re learning something new—not just about the art, but about each other.

The idea that museums can strengthen relationships isn’t just anecdotal—it’s backed by science. Engaging with art in a shared space has been shown to increase intimacy, communication, and even attraction between partners. A study published in Museum Management and Curatorship found that couples who participated in cultural activities together, such as visiting a museum, reported a greater sense of closeness and relationship satisfaction than those who did not. Another report in The Journal of Positive Psychology revealed that engaging in novel and intellectually stimulating experiences with a partner enhances overall relationship quality by promoting shared meaning and increasing emotional bonds.

There’s a well-documented psychological phenomenon known as the “novelty effect”—when couples engage in new and stimulating activities, their brains release dopamine, the same neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of love and attraction. Studies have found that couples who experience novelty together—whether through travel, trying new activities, or engaging in cultural events—report higher levels of relationship satisfaction than those who fall into predictable routines.

Research from the University of California, Berkeley, suggests that shared aesthetic experiences, such as looking at art together, enhance emotional synchrony. This means that when couples observe and discuss artwork, their emotional responses align, deepening their sense of connection. Another study, published in Social and Personality Psychology Compass, found that mutual engagement with artistic and cultural activities fosters a sense of unity, reducing stress and promoting feelings of well-being.

Moreover, art has been shown to activate areas of the brain linked to pleasure and reward. A 2011 study in Brain and Cognition demonstrated that viewing art stimulates the same neural pathways as love and desire, making a museum visit a surprisingly potent tool for rekindling passion.

If you’re looking for a way to break free from the monotony of daily life and bring fresh energy into your relationship, here are a few ways to make the Academy Art Museum part of your next date night:

Walk Through an Exhibition Together

Museums provide a perfect environment for slow, thoughtful conversation—an antidote to the digital distractions that often interrupt our daily interactions. Unlike watching a film, where the experience is passive, engaging with an art exhibition encourages discussion. A study in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts found that sharing interpretations of artwork fosters intellectual intimacy and helps couples appreciate each other’s perspectives. Next time you visit an exhibition, challenge yourselves to find a piece you both love—or one you completely disagree on—and talk about why.

Experience Live Music at the Museum

Live music is uniquely powerful in creating emotional bonds. A 2017 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that shared musical experiences enhance empathy and social bonding. The recent Roaring Rhythms jazz concert at the museum was a perfect example—couples swayed to the music, exchanged knowing smiles, and found themselves caught up in the shared experience of melody and rhythm. Attending a live performance together creates lasting sensory memories that become part of a couple’s shared history.

Catch a Film at the Museum’s New Film Series

Film screenings at the museum offer more than just a night out—they provide a structured yet intimate way to engage with storytelling together. A study in The Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that couples who watch and discuss films that explore relationship dynamics report better conflict resolution skills and deeper emotional understanding of their partners. Whether it’s an art-house film, a classic, or a contemporary drama, watching and discussing a movie together allows couples to reflect on themes that resonate with their own experiences.

Share a Love for Literature at a ShoreLit Book Talk

Books open up entire worlds, and discussing them with a partner can reveal surprising insights about each other. The Journal of Applied Social Psychology reports that engaging in literary discussions strengthens cognitive empathy—the ability to understand and share another’s emotions. The museum’s ShoreLit book talks introduce fresh voices in literature, giving you the chance to discover new ideas together. Whether you agree or disagree on an author’s perspective, the conversation will bring depth to your interactions

Get Creative Together in a Studio Class

Creative collaboration is one of the most effective ways to strengthen a relationship. A landmark study in The Creativity Research Journal found that couples who engage in artistic activities together report higher levels of relationship satisfaction, largely due to the cooperative problem-solving and emotional expression required in creative tasks. Taking an art class at the museum—whether it’s painting, pottery, or printmaking—provides a fun, low-pressure environment to experiment, make mistakes, and support each other. It’s about the process, not the product—and about creating something together, both literally and metaphorically.

Flowers wilt, chocolates disappear, but a shared experience at the Academy Art Museum? That’s something you’ll carry with you. This February, instead of the usual dinner-and-a-movie routine, consider a date night that deepens your connection in ways both scientifically proven and emotionally felt. Whether it’s standing side by side in front of a breathtaking painting, hearing live music together, or getting your hands messy in a ceramics class, museums provide an unparalleled setting for meaningful interaction.

After all, love is an art. And like any masterpiece, it needs time, attention, and the right environment to flourish.

Daedelus Hoffman is the director of education and interpretation at the Academy Art Museum. 

Looking for a creative way to spend time with your partner this month? Visit the Academy Art Museum and explore our exhibitions, events, and studio classes at academyartmuseum.org.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Home-grown Entrepreneurs: Eat Sprout Grows Up! By Mary Beth Durkin

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Eat Sprout, the farm-to-table, grab-and-go food retail store that fuses health with deliciousness, has lots of big news for 2025!!!  Sprout is opening a new café in the heart of Easton at 22 North Harrison St. The new location will have indoor and outdoor seating. Co-owner Emily Groll says the new café will have a “warm, inviting coffee shop vibe” and offer the popular Sprout grab-and-go entrees, baked goods, and more.  The husband and wife duo plan to open the new cafe sometime in the early Spring of this year.

Watch the video above, titled, Eat Sprout Grows Up and take a touthrough Sprout’s kitchen, meet the owners, Emily and Ryan Groll, along with the chefs who make all that delicious food and learn about Sprout’s back story.  

Sprout is also upping its game and venturing far beyond the eastern shore. This summer Sprout plans to open a new café in downtown Bethesda, Maryland. Since 2019, the amount of product coming out of Sprout’s kitchen has multiplied exponentially. The addition of 3 new cafes in St. Michaels and two in Annapolis since 2019 has meant big growth for Sprout.

In addition to more cafes, the Meals on Wheels program, which serves three counties, has awarded Sprout a contract to supply 2,000 meals a week to seniors on the eastern shore. Ryan Groll says, “When we opened our kitchen in 2018, we were excited to be producing 1,000 items a week, now fast forward to today and we’re producing over 15,000 items a week.” 

This video is approximately seven minutes in length.

Mary Beth Durkin is a documentary filmmaker and award-winning journalist who focuses on food reporting for the PBS NewsHour. For more information about Sprout please go here. 

 

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Have another? By Roger Vaughan 

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The surgeon general cautioned the public that even light or moderate drinking is harmful.
New York Times 1-3-25

There have been a lot of scary headlines recently. The US has resigned from the Paris Agreements, a coalition of countries that promotes cohesive efforts to suppress climate chaos. Sixteen hundred convicted January 6 insurrectionists have been pardoned. Birthright citizenship has been challenged. A slew of seemingly unqualified people have been given cabinet positions in the new administration. It’s a long, ongoing list. But none of them struck quite so comprehensively at the heart of our cultural habitat as the series of articles reporting that consuming any amount of alcohol is bad for us. Verboten! First, tobacco. Now, booze? 

It started the middle of last year with the headline, HOW BAD IS DRINKING FOR YOU, REALLY? It went on, with the research increasingly convincing: ALCOHOL IS RISKIER THAN PREVIOUSLY THOUGHT; MODERATE DRINKING RAISES HEATH RISKS; ALCOHOL CARRIES NEW RISKS IN MIDDLE AGE; WHAT, EXACTLY, IS MODERATE DRINKING?, until the Surgeon General laid it on the line, suggesting a cancer warning should be printed on all alcoholic beverages. 

This is a shocking development. The consumption of alcoholic beverages in America is right up there with motherhood and apple pie as a commonality. Alongside sex, drinking is perhaps the primary indulgence of our culture that knows not religion, race, sexuality, or (unfortunately) age. There are teetotalers who don’t drink any alcohol. The Pew Research Center reports they represent 38% of the population, leaving nearly twice that many drinkers among us. 

World-wide – “Skàl! Salud! Prost! Salute!” — the alcoholic beverage business is valued at nearly $2 trillion. In the US – “Cheers!” — the business reached $2,313 billion in 2023. That’s a lot of drinks served by some 63,000 bars and clubs in our 19,500 incorporated towns and cities, in addition to what is purchased from 46,000 liquor stores and consumed at home. 

Drinking is nearly as integral a part of our culture as cell phones and guns. When is the last time you watched a movie or TV series that didn’t show some character having a drink? We toast engagements, marriages, job promotions, and we enjoy meals with wine. Watching sports we dutifully consume beer. We drink spirits to celebrate or forget, or to bury relatives and friends. 

Overindulgence is common. For way too many people the use of alcohol is a disease. There are a reported 30 million alcoholics (ages 12 and older) in the United States; roughly 10% of our population. And now the surgeon general has reported any alcohol is bad for us. That’s almost like finding out toothpaste is toxic in the long run. 

This development, the flurry of scary headlines, caused me to review my own history of drinking, which peaked in college (a long time ago). I drank too much despite the thoughtful approach to alcohol that had been practiced by my parents. They were of a generation that was thoroughly engaged in drinking. My father was probably an alcoholic, but a small-town family doctor of his stature would not have been considered so. In those days, alcoholism, which was then not yet understood to be a disease, and the lower classes were mistakenly, yet firmly linked. Middle class professionals were simply not considered alcoholics. But two drinks and my father was a goner. A struggling golfer, he always birdied the 19th hole. He had given me a miniature, two-ounce mug when I was seven years old. When my father opened a beer, he would pour a dollop into my mug. 

My parents suggested I sample liquor at home so I would know what effect it had on me. Despite undergoing such a proper orientation, I drank excessively and irresponsibly in college. I joined a fraternity of lushes and went enthusiastically along with their frequent, three-day-weekend blow outs. I was focused on skiing and drinking, sailing and drinking, and just drinking to the point my grades suffered. A dean ordered me to take a semester off. That got my attention. I returned to college with new purpose. 

Working for a big magazine in Manhattan, I was often lured into my bosses’ two-martini lunches, which caused afternoons to blur. Then I just stopped drinking for many years. Blame it on my introduction to marijuana, a more benign way (we thought, and as it turns out) to achieve an enhanced perspective. 

Over the last ten years, I started having a couple ounces of rum with a dash of orange juice before dinner. I find this habit relaxing, and I savor the taste of rum. Exploring brands from different countries has become an engaging study. The one drink has little more than a calming effect on me, and there is no morning head at all. I do this four or five evenings a week. I don’t “need” it. I don’t miss it on the days I pass.

The current Surgeon General’s report on the danger of alcohol prompted me to consider quitting altogether, but I have decided to continue my one drink program for several reasons. First of all, as a senior citizen, long term effects of anything are no longer taken as seriously. And having a rum is one of the few pleasures left. Second, the older I get the more regard I have for moderation as a useful life guide. In younger days we teased each other for being moderate. Use it up, get more! Point those skis downhill! But moderation has repeatedly proved its worth. It has outlasted the competition. Having one drink is definitely moderate behavior. For me. 

Finally, there is consistency. That involves one’s awareness of self. One two-ounce drink that proves right for me might not suit someone else. Despite what our various catalogs and manufacturing processes now frequently promise, one size does not often fit all. I just published a biography of a woman who rarely has fewer than three drinks every evening. Enthusiastic drinking has been lifelong for her. She’s 81 now and still going strong. 

Cheers! 

Roger Vaughan, a Massachusetts native, began writing, photographing, playing music, and sailing at a young age, pursuits that shaped his lifelong career. After earning a BA in English from Brown University, he worked as an editor and writer for Saturday Evening Post and Life magazines, covering major cultural events of the 1960s and 70s. His first book, The Grand Gesture (1973), launched a prolific freelance writing career. He’s written more than 20 books, including numerous biographies, films, and many videos. Since 1980, Vaughan has lived on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where he continues his work documenting remarkable individuals and events.

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Talbot Thrive helps local family discover the joy of biking  by Deidra Lyngard

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When the Molina family arrived in Easton from the Philippines, they never expected that four bicycles would open the door to a new chapter in their lives. But thanks to Talbot Thrive, that’s exactly what happened. The family first connected with Talbot Thrive during last fall’s Rolling Rodeo, a lively community event that brings kids and families together to learn traffic safety in the most fun way possible. 

Picture it: kids zipping through a specially designed course that mimics real streets—complete with traffic signs, lanes, and ramps—while enthusiastic volunteers cheer them on and teach valuable safety tips. It was here that the Molinas discovered the spirit of Talbot Thrive and its mission to make transportation safer and more sustainable for all. Now, with their donated bikes, the family is ready to explore their new community and embrace all that life in Talbot County has to offer. 

Shiela Molina was familiar with the concept of bike rodeos back home in the Philippines but had never been able to attend one with her children due to the pandemic. “When the school sent a flyer to my son for the Rolling Rodeo here in Easton, he wanted to go,” says Shiela. “I was pleased to learn that we could participate even if we didn’t have bicycles.” 

Joshua and Jeerah enjoying loaner bikes at the Rolling Rodeo at Easton Elementary School

In the Philippines, the Molina children—Joshua (8) and Jeerah (3)—had strider bikes but were only able to use them in their yard as there were no trails nearby. At the rodeo, they were fitted with loaner bikes and given free helmets. Within an hour on the course, Joshua had graduated from his strider to a pedal bike and his sister had advanced from walking to confidently zipping around the course. 

Even Shiela, who hadn’t ridden a bike since she was a child, got back on two wheels after being encouraged by a rodeo volunteer saying the event was for riders of all ages. Soon, she was pedaling around the course with her children and feeling comfortable on a bicycle again. 

After gaining their new skills, the Molinas were eager for more, but they didn’t have any bikes. On learning of their predicament, Heather Grant, Talbot Thrive’s executive director, suggested they enter the rodeo’s bike raffle. 

“Heather told me if we don’t get the raffle, she would find a way to get us bikes,” recalls Shiela. “We exchanged phone numbers and she told me to keep in touch.” When Shiela found out that they didn’t win the raffle, Heather put the word out on Facebook, and through donations from community members, Talbot Thrive was able to outfit the entire family with three gently used bikes, tuned up by a Talbot Thrive volunteer, and one new strider.   

Now the Molinas are a bicycling family. “We try to go out every weekend, weather permitting,” says Shiela. “We ride on the rails-to-trails, which is near our home.” Shiela says it’s great to have the bikes because the family can do something together while getting exercise outdoors. It also helps keep the kids away from “using gadgets!” 

The Molinas’ story highlights Talbot Thrive’s commitment to creating safe, accessible spaces where families can enjoy biking and develop healthy habits. Through educational events like the Rolling Rodeo, Talbot Thrive encourages both kids and adults to embrace outdoor recreation and learn essential bike safety skills. And by facilitating bike donations and engaging community support, it hopes to enable more families like the Molinas to experience the joy of riding together. 

Three Rolling Rodeos are planned for 2025—two in the spring and one in the fall. Learn more at TalbotThrive.org/RollingRodeos. If you have a gently used bike you’d like to donate, please contact Talbot Thrive at web@talbotthrive.org 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Ten new things at the Academy Art Museum to kick off the new year by Daedelus Hoffman

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The turning of the calendar to January feels like stepping into a freshly stretched canvas—open, bright, and waiting for something meaningful to happen. As the holiday decorations come down and resolutions take shape, there’s a collective sense of ambition in the air. Whether it’s learning a new skill, meeting new people, or finding inspiration, the new year calls us to action. At the Academy Art Museum, we’re here to help you channel that energy into something creative, fulfilling, and, most importantly, fun. Here are ten ways to make your new year a masterpiece.

1. Check Out a New Exhibition in Our Galleries

Nothing says “fresh start” like stepping into a gallery and seeing the world through an artist’s eyes. Our current and upcoming exhibitions are carefully curated to introduce you to thought-provoking works by both renowned and emerging artists. Each piece tells a story, invites reflection, or sparks a conversation that might stay with you long after you leave. Make it a goal to visit at least one exhibition this year—you never know which piece might inspire your next big idea.

2. Learn About a New Artist Through Our Amazing Collection

Art is more than what you see; it’s what you discover. Take a closer look at the treasures within our permanent collection and uncover the histories and ideas behind them. You might find yourself captivated by a painter you’ve never heard of or see connections between their work and your own life. Exploring our collection is an invitation to learn, to reflect, and to see art—and the world—through a different lens.

3. Take a New Class from One of Our Incredible Teaching Artists

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to throw clay on a potter’s wheel, wield a paintbrush with confidence, or capture the perfect photograph? Our teaching artists are experts in their crafts and passionate about sharing their knowledge. Classes are designed for everyone, from absolute beginners to those looking to hone their skills. This is your chance to turn “I’ve always wanted to…” into “I can’t believe I made this!”

4. Learn About a New Book at One of Our Shore Lit Book Talks

If the thought of curling up with a good book appeals to you, our Shore Lit series is the perfect fit. These events dive into books that connect art, literature, and culture, sparking meaningful conversations in an intimate setting. Meet other book lovers, exchange ideas, and leave with fresh insights that will linger long after the last page. It’s a book club, a community gathering, and an intellectual treat all in one.

5. Meet Somebody New by Attending One of Our Engaging Public Programs

Art has a magical way of breaking the ice and creating connections. Whether you’re attending a lecture, a workshop, or a family-friendly event, you’re bound to meet people who share your curiosity and enthusiasm. Conversations that start with “What do you think of this piece?” can quickly turn into friendships or even collaborations. Step outside your comfort zone, and see how art can bring people together in unexpected ways.

6. Check Out a New Movie at Our New Film Series

Lights, camera, action—our new film series brings the magic of cinema to the museum. Featuring carefully selected films that highlight the beauty, challenges, and humor of the human experience, this series is a feast for the senses. Each screening is an opportunity to see the world through a director’s lens and discuss it with fellow moviegoers. Bring a friend, grab some popcorn, and let the storytelling begin.

7. Share a New Experience with Someone Close to You at One of Our Exhibitions

Art is even better when shared. Bring a friend, a family member, or someone special to explore our galleries and spark a new kind of conversation. Exhibitions have a way of revealing things about ourselves and each other, deepening connections and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re marveling at a painting together or debating its meaning, it’s an experience that goes beyond words.

8. See Something Familiar in a New Way Through One of Our Tour Experiences

Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh perspective to see something familiar in a new light. Our guided tours are designed to do just that, offering behind-the-scenes insights and stories that enrich your understanding of the art on display. Even if you’ve visited before, a tour can reveal nuances and details you might have missed. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your sense of wonder—you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the art and the museum.

9. Travel to a New Museum Through One of Our Day Trips

Art lovers, adventurers, and curious minds—our day trips are tailor-made for you. Join us as we explore other museums and cultural institutions, expanding our horizons and building connections between the Eastern Shore and the wider world. These trips are more than just visits; they’re opportunities to learn, bond, and be inspired alongside fellow travelers. Leave the logistics to us and focus on the joy of discovery.

10. Discover Your New Favorite Piece of Art at the Academy Art Museum Gift Shop

Art doesn’t have to stay in the galleries. Visit our gift shop and find a treasure to take home, whether it’s a locally made craft, a beautiful print, or a book that sparks your imagination. Every purchase supports the museum’s mission, so you’re not just shopping—you’re contributing to the community. Start your year with a piece of art that makes your everyday life a little more beautiful.

Start Your Year With Creativity and Connection

The new year is a blank slate, and at the Academy Art Museum, we’re here to help you fill it with inspiration, connection, and discovery. Whether you join us for an exhibition, a class, or a conversation, we can’t wait to welcome you. Let’s make 2025 a year filled with creativity, community, and meaningful experiences—together.

Daedelus Hoffman is the Director of Education at the Academy Art Museum. For more information about the AAM please go here.

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A lifelong canvas: How museums enrich the lives of lifelong learners by Daedelus Hoffman

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What if the first person to live to 150 years old has already been born? According to David Sinclair, a leading researcher at Harvard Medical School, advancements in science and medicine are rapidly extending the boundaries of human longevity, making this once-unimaginable milestone more plausible than ever before. Americans are not only living longer but are also redefining what it means to age. Here in Talbot County, where nearly 40% of residents are over the age of 60, this longevity revolution is already reshaping our community. The question isn’t just about how long we’ll live, but how well. And in the pursuit of a meaningful, high-quality life, museums like the Academy Art Museum play a pivotal role.

In this era of increased lifespans, the concept of lifelong learning is more essential than ever. As our years expand, so too must the opportunities to remain mentally, socially, and creatively engaged. Research increasingly reveals that lifelong learning is critical to aging well. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology underscores how engaging with cultural institutions like museums enhances cognitive function, emotional well-being, and social connections for older adults. Similarly, the American Alliance of Museums highlights how museums can serve as vital resources for elder communities, providing spaces for discovery, creativity, and intergenerational connection.

These findings aren’t abstract—they’re a blueprint for how museums like the Academy Art Museum can shape a vibrant, inclusive future for aging adults on the Eastern Shore. The evidence is clear: fostering connections, learning new skills, and engaging in creative practices are not just beneficial but necessary for maintaining a high quality of life as we age. Museums, with their unique ability to combine education, art, and community, are perfectly positioned to address this need.

At the Academy Art Museum, lifelong learning isn’t just a buzzword—it’s embedded in everything we do. From art classes that spark creativity in seasoned hands to gallery tours that invite reflection and dialogue, the museum fosters spaces where older adults can thrive. Programs like our intergenerational workshops pair seniors with younger participants, creating not only art but shared stories and connections that span decades. Whether it’s a painting class or a lecture on art history, these activities are about more than learning—they’re about belonging.

Imagine a retired teacher discovering a new passion for sculpture or a former engineer exploring the intricacies of watercolor painting. These are not just hobbies; they’re lifelines that keep minds sharp and spirits high. The Academy Art Museum provides these pathways, offering opportunities to try something new or deepen an existing interest. And in doing so, it builds a community of learners where everyone’s voice and creativity are valued.

But museums don’t just offer senior citizens a place to learn—they provide a stage for them to teach. Older adults bring with them lifetimes of experiences, perspectives, and skills that enrich every corner of the Academy Art Museum. Programs that encourage older participants to share their insights not only empower them but also enhance the learning experience for everyone involved. Whether mentoring younger artists, sharing historical perspectives, or leading discussions, these contributions transform the museum into a true community hub—a place where generations meet, stories are exchanged, and the past informs the future.

In Talbot County, where the population of seniors is among the highest in Maryland, these initiatives are not just relevant—they’re essential. As our community evolves, the Academy Art Museum is committed to evolving with it, creating programs and opportunities that meet the needs of all its members. This commitment includes ensuring that our spaces are welcoming and accessible, our programs are inclusive, and our mission resonates with individuals of all ages.

Consider the ripple effects of this work. A senior citizen who finds joy and purpose in a museum class goes on to inspire their family and friends. A grandparent and grandchild who collaborate on an art project deepen their bond. A retired professional who leads a workshop shares their knowledge with a new generation. The benefits extend far beyond the museum walls, enriching lives and strengthening our community.

As we navigate this era of longer lifespans, institutions like the Academy Art Museum have an opportunity, even an obligation, to respond. We aren’t just curators of art; we’re curators of connection, learning, and quality of life. For Talbot County’s older residents, the museum isn’t merely a destination; it’s a partner in living fully, deeply, and creatively. And as we imagine a future where some of us may live to see 150 years, there’s no better time to build the intergenerational bridges that make life worth living.

Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a curious learner, or simply someone seeking community, the Academy Art Museum welcomes you to join us in the lifelong pursuit of discovery.

Daedelus Hoffman is the director of education and interpretation at the Academy Art Museum.

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A reflection on veterans and the Greatest Generation by Kate and Matt LaMotte

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Landing at Omaha Beach on June 7, 1944 – one day after the historic D-Day invasion of Normandy, France – U.S. Army Captain Jack King was ordered to immediately march his Company inland. Within 48 hours of coming ashore,’ K’ Company was engaged in combat. In a bold move, Captain King – who had enlisted in the Maryland National Guard shortly after his graduation from Princeton in 1940 and was called up to active duty in 1941 – decided to move his troops across a shallow stretch of the Vier River to take control of the German-occupied village of Auroville. Control of Auville was important because Captain King and his troops were the “tip the spear” of the U.S. Army regiments coming from Omaha Beach, clearing the way for the U.S troops traveling from Utah Beach and Omaha Beach to join forces, so the Allies could wrest control of Normandy from the Nazis and then push across France into Germany.

With the bridge destroyed, Captain King settled on a risky, but brilliant alternative strategy: on the misty afternoon of June 9, he deployed his 150 remaining troops in a single, horizontal line, crossing the river with their guns blazing, giving the enemy troops the impression that a large Allied force was attacking. The ruse worked – the Germans retreated and Auville was relieved of enemy occupation, clearing the way for the U.S troops to join forces. Shot in both legs by machine gun fire, Captain King was among the few American troops (all Marylanders) wounded during the crossing and capture of Auville.

Raised in Baltimore’s historic Bolton Hill as one of three sons and a daughter of a prominent Johns Hopkins Hospital cardiologist, John T. King Jr and his wife, Charlotte. Throughout his youth, Jack King was a voracious reader and strong student who excelled at the Gilman School and graduated from Princeton University in 1940. Along with his personal achievements and his tall, dark and patrician good looks, King was widely appreciated by friends and family for his unfailing modesty and occasionally mischievous sense of humor.                                  

With World War II looming, levity and mischief were soon left behind and, like many of his peers, Jack King enlisted in the military. King was assigned to the 9th Army, 13th Corps, 29th Division, 175th Infantry. Known as the “Blue and Gray” Regiment or Maryland 5th, the unit traced its origins back to the Maryland/Virginia National Guard Regiment that had formed at the conclusion of the Civil War. By 1943, the 175th had shipped out to England and spent long months in extensive training preparing to invade Europe at Normandy, France.

By October 1944, within five months of his injuries at Auville, Captain King had recovered and was returned to his regiment. By then, the 175th had marched into the province of Brittany in an offensive designed to capture an important Atlantic coast seaport, which was successful. From there, the 175th was deployed to Belgium to support the Allied thrust over the Roer River into Germany. Once again, King’s company was in the thick of the fighting, and his leadership in combat proved to be invaluable. 

After crossing the Rhine in late April, 1945, the 175th’s primary role was to round up and process Nazi soldiers who had been taken prisoner. By early May, they had captured more than 15,000 prisoners. In later years, King recalled that they found this as “an easy task” because the German soldiers preferred surrendering to the Americans rather than being captured by the Soviet Russians.

In September of 1945, now promoted to Major, King returned home to civilian life. While awaiting processing out of the military at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore), Georgia, he met and married Elizabeth (Betty) Plant of Macon, Georgia. Returning to his native Baltimore, Jack and Betty raised their two children, John Holmes King and Elizabeth Leighton King Wheeler. One of his three granddaughters, C. Lee Gordon, and her family have made their home here in Talbot County.

In civilian life, King spent a successful career as vice president and executive assistant to the CEO at the Baltimore Gas & Electric Company, now Constellation Energy. As corporate historian as well as a public relations officer for BG&E, he also served on the boards of numerous area charities and non-profit organizations including the Enoch Pratt Free Library, the Gilman School and the St. Paul’s Girls’ School, Brown Memorial Presbyterian Church, and several area family foundations. 

While King rarely discussed his wartime experiences, the memories lingered. While PTSD was not a recognized diagnosis until after the Korean War, Jack King – a good-humored, lively young man before the War – became more subdued and introspective upon his return from Europe. He would talk about his experiences with his children in the form of humorous, anecdotal bedtime stories. Beyond that, he rarely spoke about The War. 

In his later years, King became less sociable and was haunted more frequently by nightmares about his wartime experiences. Yet, he never complained or made an issue about his wartime experiences. Upon his death in 2001, he was buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.

For his heroic leadership, Jack King was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, France’s Croix de Guerre, and the British Military Cross. He was one of the most decorated men in the entire Division. One citation read, “King’s aggressiveness and leadership ability under enemy fire, with total disregard for his own safety, were an inspiration to all his troops.” 

A Gilman classmate and friend, Walter Lord (author of A Night to Remember, the best-selling book about the sinking of the Titanic), reflected in a 1994 letter to him that “What you went through must have cost you great pain, but you, and those with you, did an enormous amount for the rest of us.”

While Veterans Day is designed for those who served in the line of duty, it is also an occasion to remember and appreciate the heroic service provided by Jack King and thousands of his fellow members of the “Greatest Generation” who fought valiantly and returned after World War II.

Matt LaMotte, an Eastern Shore native from Kent County, spent his youth between Baltimore, Chestertown and Easton. After college, he delved in the world of finance, raising his two sons while honing his passion for history and lacrosse. He spent two decades teaching and coaching in independent schools across Virginia, New Hampshire and Ohio. In 2018, he headed the History Department at Sts. Peter and Paul High School, Easton, until retirement in 2021. A reformed duck hunter, now bird enthusiast and conservationist, Matt is currently engaged in outdoor education and various affairs.

Kate LaMotte spent the first half of her life in Baltimore and then 10 years in Montclair, New Jersey. In 1996 she moved to Talbot County and raised her two daughters here. She has had a long (and getting longer) career in communications – primarily writing and editing — in Maryland, New Jersey and the Eastern Shore in service to higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations and presently, UM Shore Regional Health. She also serves on the Board of the Neighborhood Service Center, Inc.

 

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Spy Daybook: How museums offer a cure for loneliness in modern America by Daedelus Hoffman

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I believe the Academy Art Museum is more than a place where people look at art—it’s a place where people find each other. Art is a powerful connector, bridging gaps between strangers and building bonds that feel something like family. That’s what drives me: creating spaces where people aren’t just spectators but instead play an active role in building something bigger together. That thing is called community.

The importance of this work feels especially urgent today. Loneliness has become a silent epidemic, affecting Americans of all ages and backgrounds. According to a 2021 report by Harvard’s Making Caring Common project, over one-third of U.S. adults report feeling serious loneliness. In response, the U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has issued a stark warning: chronic loneliness is a public health crisis with risks to physical and mental health equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness isn’t just an emotional experience—it’s a health risk that shortens lives and leaves people vulnerable to conditions ranging from heart disease to depression.

One reason for this epidemic is the decline of “third places”—those public, community-centered spaces outside of work and home where people can naturally gather, relax, and connect. Sociologist Robert Putnam explores this concept in The Upswing, where he argues that third places like coffee shops, libraries, and yes, museums, are crucial for building social cohesion. Without these gathering places, people lose opportunities to connect in a meaningful way with others in their community. In their absence, isolation grows.

Museums are particularly well-suited to fill this gap. Daniel Weiss, in his book Why the Museum Matters, describes museums as “cathedrals of the imagination,” where visitors are encouraged to pause, reflect, and find meaning. Unlike many other public spaces, museums offer an environment that’s both welcoming and contemplative, where people can take their time, engage with ideas, and share their experience with others. Museums make space for thoughtful encounters that often lead to meaningful connections.

At the Academy Art Museum, we see this potential for community building firsthand. Our public programs, like a film screening or a lecture, bring people together in shared experiences. These events are more than just cultural outings; they’re opportunities to bond over mutual interests and form lasting friendships. When visitors come for a film screening or a lecture, they’re joining a gathering of people who share an appreciation for creativity, curiosity, and dialogue. It’s a chance to become part of something larger.

Beyond these public events, our adult classes and workshops offer another layer of connection. In a world where adult friendships can be hard to sustain, these programs offer a rare opportunity to meet people who share similar interests in art and creativity. Whether it’s a painting workshop or a photography course, these classes invite participants to engage deeply with a craft while connecting with others. It’s a different kind of learning environment, one that values collaboration and exchange as much as individual growth.

And as people learn together, something transformative happens—they build a community. In a museum setting, that community becomes woven into the larger fabric of the institution itself, bringing new life to the art on the walls and new stories to the people who walk through our doors.

So yes, art has the power to inspire, challenge, and provoke. But just as importantly, it has the power to connect. In a society increasingly marked by isolation, museums are one of the last places where people can meet face-to-face, share a moment of insight, and leave feeling a little less alone. At the Academy Art Museum, that sense of connection is central to everything we do, because we know that the arts are most impactful when they bring people together.

For those on the Eastern Shore, the Academy Art Museum is here for you—not just as a gallery of beautiful things, but as a space to belong, to connect, and to be part of something bigger. Whether you’re here for an exhibit, a program, or a class, we invite you to come as you are, and maybe, just maybe, leave with something unexpected: a new friend, a sense of purpose, and the feeling that you’re part of a community.

Daedelus Hoffman is the director of education at the Academy Art Museum in Easton, Maryland.

 

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