November 5th, 2011
They say you have to see the town that Hollywood fell in love with….Remember? Runaway Bride? Or, Tuck Everlasting? These movies were filmed in the town of Berlin. And, even though it has been years since the streets were turned into a movie set, I always refer to both of those movies to see if people have a recollection.
The funny part is that when you do visit Berlin, it does remind you of the perfect movie set. One thing, for sure, is the fact that this Historic Village is vibrant with an influx of shops, arts, entertainment and restaurants. The shopkeepers? Friendly!!
You cannot miss in the center of Berlin, the beautiful and historic Atlantic Hotel. It is located at 2 North Main Street. Tel. 410-641-3589. Website? www.atlantichotel.com.
The Atlantic Hotel was built in 1895 by Horace F. Harmonson and his wife, Virginia Lingo Harmonson. “Drummers” were traveling salesmen that crisscrossed the area during the turn of the century and they stayed at the hotel.
In those early times there was a livery stable in the back. Here the sales of mules and horses took place. Livestock would arrive in Berlin by rail, then it would be driven up through the town to the Atlantic Stable.
Mr. Harmonson had a horse-drawn bus. He met incoming trains. The bus would carry passengers directly to the Hotel. “Drummers” would check into the Hotel and order up a horse and buggy from the stable to make their rounds.
Other frequent guests at the Hotel were those on their way to the ocean, those interested in hunting and fishing; guides were readily available, and those who simply loved good food.
Move forward many years and in 1986 the Atlantic Hotel was purchased by 10 local businessmen who were interested in preserving this gem. The Hotel now looks like it should have looked in its early days.
The Drummer’s Cafe opens daily with delicious food. The staff is more than happy to take you through a tour of the hotel and even show you some of the rooms, as long as there are no guests.
During the filming of the Runaway Bride, The Atlantic Hotel was used for many of the scenes in the movie.
The Hotel stands by itsel, but on Jefferson St., next to the Hotel, there is a Gardener’s Cottage. This cottage is also part of the Hotel and available for rent. It is so cute.
The Historic Village of Downtown Berlin is perfect for strolling. Just park your car; no meters, by the way, and take off exploring. So many new things coming to this town; it is becoming a destination.
It is just 10 minutes West of Ocean City, Maryland, 7 minutes West of Assateague Island, 25 minutes East of Salisbury and 45 minutes South of Rehoboth Beach.
Note: Some info. for this post was taken from The Atlantic Hotel.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later….
November 5th, 2011
Don’t think I am crazy for writing this post so early. There is a reason for my madness. I am still on the orange mode, as in Thanksgiving, even as I see everything being decorated for Christmas already. But, this post needs to be brought to light since some of you might want to enter the 80th Annual Lewes Christmas Parade, which will take place on Saturday, December 3rd at 5:00 p.m.
This year’s theme? Santa Claus is Coming to Town. Honoray Grand Marshals? The Brittingham Family, owners of Lewes Dairy. Lewes Dairy has some delicious eggnog during the holidays!!
There is a deadline if you would like to enter the parade in a decorated vehicle or in a marching group. In case of inclement weather, the parade will then take place on Sunday, December 4th at 5 p.m. You can enter the parade as an individual or as an organization. The deadline? November 16th.
Please call the Lewes Chamber of Commerce at 302-645-8073 to receive an entry form. Entrants will be notified in a mailing on November 23rd regarding their entry number and their parade lineup time.
If you would like some more info., please visit www.leweschamber.com.
The Lewes Christmas Parade is the culmination of a number of special events and activities associated with the celebration of Christmas in Historic Lewes. It really kicks off on Tuesday, November 29th.
As these dates come closer I will remind you of what’s going on. In the meantime, if you want to be on the parade, you better call and get that entry form.
Talk to you later….
November 4th, 2011
If you are visiting the Delaware Beaches this week-end, check what is going on in the Historic town of Lewes.
The 2011 International Beachcombing Conference is being held at the University of Delaware’s Virden Retreat Center on 700 Pilottown Rd. in Lewes, until Sunday. The conference is open to the public and you are invited to celebrate and learn about the treasures you can find at the shore.
The Nation’s leading ocean beachcombing experts will share their knowledge of sea glass, fossils, stone and so much more. Please visit www.beachcombingconference.com for complete information.
Saturday, 11/5 and Sunday, 11/6 – The Holiday Sea Glass & Beach Arts Bazaar will also be part of the Conference. Saturday from 10 to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 to 3 p.m.
The Mid-Atlantic and the Delaware Bay are the perfect places to discover beach treasures….have a great week-end….
November 4th, 2011
Many years ago when my husband and I came to Bethany, the “scene” was very different. But, that’s what we liked about it. Small town, great place to bring up a family. Through my children I met most of my friends. Some I saw frequently and some just once in a while. One thing is for sure; all those friends are still there.
I met Mike Cummings and his family at the Pyle Center in Roxanna. Yeap, we were in Little League. Rain or shine; early mornings and at times early evenings, as well. Roxanna is near Bethany Beach. I am sure Mike remembers all that. We were also on the same team. I have forgotten if we were good or not.
Through the years I have met parents through sports and some were very intense. Mike is one of the few people that I know that has kept it constant. Even temper, friendly, caring, good sense of humor, and a consummate professional in his work. It was like that then, and it is now, as well.
He is the Founder and CEO of Miken Builders, located at 32782 Cedar Drive, Millville, DE 19967. Tel. 302-537-4444. Cell 302-381-0773 and website, www.mikenbuilders.com. You can find Miken Builders on Facebook.
The website will give an insight on this commercial and residential construction company. You can also find them on the right hand side of my website and just with a click you will have direct access into his site.
Through the years Miken Builders has built a reputation as a company that is well respected in the community with high standards and superior craftmanship.
Mike’s company has received so many awards in construction and renovation from Associated Builders & Contractors. You can see those on the website, and you will also be able to see other awards and memberships in charitable organizations. Yes, Mike and his company have given back to the community.
Personally, I can recommend Miken Builders fully. I just used the company to do renovations in my house. His staff, well, I cannot say enough. Suggestions, designs, and carrying the job through in the most efficient way was good to see and experience.
Under Miken Builders, there is BetterLiving Patio & Sunrooms of Delmarva. Same address, but the telephone is 302-251-0000. Website? www.betterlivingdelmarva.com. This Miken Builders’ company is the exclusive provider of Betterliving 3-season, year-round sunrooms and awnings. They can transform an unused deck or patio into a totally different room; a focal point of your home.
No job is too small for Miken Builders. You can call Mike personally. I just gave you his cell and have him give you an estimate for any work needed around your house. If you are planning on building a house in the Delmarva Peninsula, you will not be disappointed if you are dealing with him, his company, and staff.
Talk to you later….have a good one!!
November 3rd, 2011
The other day someone mentioned that Rehoboth has done such a good job in keeping everyone coming back to the beach, by offering so much every week-end. As I checked the Delaware Beaches, Ocean City, Maryland, Berlin and all those other towns that surround the coast, believe me when I tell you that you can do as little or as much as you want.
Following is just a taste of what is happening in Rehoboth this week-end.
Friday – Sunday, 11/4 – 11/6 – How can we forget the Annual Punkin Chunkin. Since 1986 and now a huge festival. It got so big that it had to leave the beach for the town of Bridgeville. They said the field is full so you know that there will be lots of machinery trying to capture or defend a title.
The address given is a general one; Royal Farms, 18657 Sussex Highway, Bridgeville, Delaware. Once you are there just follow the DelDot signs.
The website for directions is http://www.punkinchunkin.com/location.
But, if you are unable to make it, you can watch the Special Thanksgiving Simulcast event on Discovery and Science on Thursday, 11/24 at 8 p.m.
Friday 11/4 – It is called the Cocoa Crawl – In Downtown Rehoboth Beach. Lots of fun from 5 until 9 p.m. when you can stroll around town and take advantage of great deals. Local artists and local restaurants will be on-hand. Call for more info. 302-226-9650.
Saturday, 11/5 – It is the 2011 Holiday Fair at The Rehoboth Art League. It is a Fine Art and Fine Craft Show, right at The League located at 12 Dodds Lane. Tel. 302-227-8408. Website? http://www.rehobothartleague.org/holiday_fair.html.
The $5 donation will get you a raffle ticket. The fair is from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
There will be about 30 fine arts and crafts artists with jewelry, glasswork, pottery, clay sculpture, painting, woodworking, mixed media and much more.
Saturday – 11/5 – It is the 9th Annual City of Rehoboth Beach Municipal Auction at 10 a.m. at City Hall parking lot on Rehoboth Ave.
There will be so much; vehicles, computers, cameras, boardwalk benches, bikes, confiscated merchandise, etc. etc. You can inspect the lot on Friday, 11/4, from 3 – 5 p.m. and on Saturday, 11/5, before the auction, at 9 a.m.
Saturday, 11/5 – Artisan Open House from 3 – 6 p.m. at Furniture and More located at Coastal Highway. It is a fundraising event for Habitat for Humanity in Sussex County. 10% of Furniture and More’s sales during the event will go for this great cause. More Info? Please call 302-226-5900. Website? www.furnitureandmoregalleries.com.
Saturday, 11/5 – Rehoboth Beach Museum. A Tasting of International Wine and Cheeses. From 5 to 7 p.m. For reservation and info., please call 302-227-7310.
Saturday, 11/5 and Sunday, 11/6 – TWO Days Only – Clear Space Theatre Co. works year-round to bring you the quality productions that are now being enjoyed at the Beach.
So just for these 2 days you will be able to see Mark Twain! On Stage – Actor John Chappell brings the famed penman and humorist, Mark Twain back to life before you very own eyes.
Saturday 11/5 at 7 p.m. – Pay what you Want. You can only take advantage of this special if you go in person and pay cash. You can still pay full price on-line, phone or in person in advance.
Sunday, 11/6 at 3 p.m. You can check the ticket policy at www.clearspacetheatre.org, or call them at 302-227-2270.
Have a good time!! Talk to you later….
November 2nd, 2011
Turning anyone’s passion into a business requires commitment. It is just the rule of thumb.
That’s exactly what a young Baker in Berlin, Maryland has done. The name of her bakery is Cupcakes in Bloom, located at 120 N. Main St., Berlin, MD 21811. Tel. 410-641-9020. You can find Cupcakes in Bloom on Facebook.
Another important thing Shawnee has done. Yes, that’s her name, is to create a niche which has developed a loyal customer base.
I think the reason I love cupcakes so much is because they remind me of my youth. Sorry, but I have to admit that when you are eating a cupcake, you really don’t have to share. You never hear anyone say “let’s split it”. No way.
Cupcakes in Bloom is easy to spot on Main Street. It sits by itself on the north side of Main St.
When I arrived I think the theme was Halloween. I am sure Thanksgiving is on her mind now.
Shawnee told me that she has always loved to bake. Bakers and cooks differ because a baker has to be precise with the ingredients. A cook? Well, as I always say; a little bit of this and a little bit of that.
On top of the counter there were some Schotcheroos, made with Rice Krispies and other sinful ingredients.
Cupcakes can be purchased individually. The ones on display during my visit were so pretty. Shawnee is self taught; no formal training was needed for this natural baker.
I decided that a tasting in front of Shawnee and her staff would be the thing to do. So, the pink lemonade cupcake with raspberry icing was my choice. I loved the colors. The cake itself was very moist and the icing was light and not overly sweet. Very good; easily to be hooked on.
Her niche? Beautiful edible cupcake arrangements. You cannot tell they are cupcakes. If you would like to order one of her arrangements, please give her at least 2 days, but, more time is usually appreciated, especially now that the holidays are around the corner. Please call her at 410-641-9020.
If you would like to see more of her work, please visit her Facebook Page, Cupcakes in Bloom.
I almost forgot to tell you that you can also order minis…everything 100% homemade, with top quality ingredients.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later…
November 1st, 2011
Going west towards Baltimore is where I found myself on Monday. Easy traffic this time of the year. Personal errands and lunch with my sister in law, Susie, who is always on target in finding restaurants around Baltimore that set themselves apart from the usual rest.
Driving down Roland Avenue was not as bad as some other roads in Baltimore. For years this city is always re-doing its roads. I am not kidding. The leaves on the trees have turned, already much more than at the beach.
Susie was driving and off to Hampden we went. For the ones who do not know what Hampden is, well, it is one of Baltimore’s most distinctive neighborhoods. It is bordered by Roosevelt Park, Wyman Park, and the Jones Falls; lots of greenery.
Originally, Hampden was a residential community for workers at the mills that were along the Jones Falls.
Hampden is a neighborhood, at present, with lots of shops and eateries located in row houses along the streets. It is a colorful part of town, home to the annual “Hon Festival”, that term of endearment used by some parts of the city more than others.
It is also home to “Miracle on 34th Street”, where homes on both sides of 34th street decorate their home with thousands of lights and Christmas decorations. Even some of their residents call it “Nightmare on 34th Street” because of the traffic turmoil caused at that time of the year.
The Dogwood Restaurant is located at 911 W. 36th Street, Baltimore, MD 21211. It is in the Hampden neighborhood, between Elm & Roland Avenues. Tel. 410-889-0952. Website? www.dogwoodbaltimore.com.
This is a restaurant with a twist. It sets itself apart from the rest thanks to his Chef, Galen Sampson. “The Dogwood is a social business that trains a small group of individuals who are working to transition to a better way of life.” These individuals get intensive training in the culinary arts. By visiting The Dogwood you will be helping them to continue this service. You can read more about it on the above mentioned website.
Susie and I arrived for a late lunch. There was parking in the back. You can enter the restaurant from the parking lot, as well.
My first impression was great. Words that came to my mind were whimsical, bohemian, and certainly colorful.
There were murals throughout the restaurant, including the bathrooms. The murals, I found out, were put there for a reason. The Dogwood is a sustainable restaurant. The images highlight the dogwood tree and nature’s bounty.
The murals were done with the help of Jay Wolf Schlossberg Cohen’s RAP project. The scenes were inspired by the community and finished by Jay.
RAP means Rebuilding thru Art Project. It is “a West Baltimore initiative using community based public art as a catalyst for neighborhood residents to take control of their own community revitalization efforts”. For more info., please check http://www.rebuildingthruart.com.
The restaurant has a full bar with a blackboard showing the specials of the day.
Chris was our server and he knew his menu well. We first got an unsweetened iced tea that was beautiful and the color came from berries.
Then, we ordered a side dish that caught my attention. Except we ordered it as an appetizer. It was Tuscan-Style Roasted Cauliflower, roasted with sweet garlic, crusty bread anchovies and parmesan. Light and delicious with a well seasoned broth.
The Dogwood has lunch sandwiches, where you can get one half sandwich, soup and salad. Therefore, Susie got the Grilled Chevre Sandwich with the Croque Monsieur Five Onion Soup, and salad. She thought is was so good, especially, when the onion soup was not overly salty.
I went more vegetarian. Was in the mood. So mine was an Organic Lentil-Barley “Vegie Burger” on a Garden Salad. Organic lentils and barley with Moroccan spices, local chevre cheese and roasted red peppers, sauteed local squash and greens.
The homemade burger had good texture and it really melted in your mouth. The chevre cheese accompanied with a bite here or there of the roasted peppers definitely got your taste buds working.
The restaurant is known for its wines. The Chef has tasted every single one. That’s what Chris told me. It has won the 2011 Award of Excellence for its Wine List from Wine Spectator.
Among the awards this restaurant and its Chef have received, there is one that was given by CNN in 2008, called CNN Hero. The award was given for his job training program that helps people who have been in prison, homeless or fighting addiction.
Every dish is cooked to order. Any food allergy concerns? Please tell your server and they will be able to adjust your food.
On the calendar? Cooking Classes.
Nov. 12th – Cooking with the Seasons – The traditions of the American Thanksgiving.
December 10th – The Healthy Chef – Delicious Holidays.
The Dogwood opens Mondays through Saturdays from 11:30 – 3:00 p.m. for lunch. For Dinner? Mondays through Thursdays from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. for dinner. Fridays and Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. for dinner. It is closed on Sundays.
The dinner menu is different from the lunch menu and my mouth was watering as I was reading it. Check it out on the website above mentioned.
Have a great day!!…Talk to you later.
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