John Bell House Dark Dover Lantern Tour - October 7, 2011

While working with the Division of Historic & Cultural Affairs, I found out about the new "First Weekend" programming. It definately sparked my interest. One of the fun programs was the Dark Dover Lantern tour.

A few DNREC buddies and I met at the Bell House and witnessed firsthand the chilling true stories of gruesome murders, and encounter spirits whose legends have left their sinister imprint on The Green. The victim of the 1940s Lonely Hearts Murders is just one of the many specters we met. Unusual twists include an unexpected retelling of the Poison Candy Murder tale from the point of view of the victim’s deceitful husband. The historical rein-actors did a wonderful job telling their individual tales keeping it all the more suspensful.

The John Bell House dates back to the mid-1700s and was owned by three generations of the Bell family. It was newly recently restored and opened to the public on April 2, 2011. DNREC was really excited to promote the newest and oldest wooden structure in Dover. It now serves as the interpretive center for our First State Heritage Park, Delaware first urban "park without boundaries" linking historical and cultural sites in the state capital. The park is a partnership of state agencies, with city and county government, non-profit organizations and the private sector.

When the park was first established, the structure was in danger of being lost, due to severe termite damage and several centuries of wear and tear. In order to save it, the Department of State purchased the building in 2005. The John Bell House was certainly on The Green when the U.S. Constitution was ratified at the Golden Fleece Tavern in 1787 and was also quite possibly already standing during the events of the Revolution. The Ridgely House is the only other surviving building that would have been on The Green at that time.

A Christmas Miracle!

This season, I have been touched by several coworkers that are in ill health, struggling financially, and mending by a miracle. My work family is very important to me. I've worked with most of them for 20 years. We've seen each other through marriages, children, heartache, devastation, celebrations, retirement, and even death. They have become my pseudo-brothers and sisters. Sometimes, we may not like each other but together we can move mountains! The following life-event has touched my heart and I continue to be amazed by everyday miracles.

I have changed the names to protect their privacy.

Two weeks before Thanksgiving, Mrs. A got a call that her husband, a City of Dover employee, was critical injured by an electric-flash from a generator he was working with as part of a reconstruction project. He was immediately flown by helicopter to the Crozer Chester Burn Center. The next day, we learned that he had 30% burns, a low white blood count, chemical pneumonia in both lungs, and on a ventilator doing all the breathing for him.

Immediately, a website was created about Mr. A for the family members, City of Dover and DNREC employees, and friends. Updates throughout each day kept their family in our hearts and prayers. Monetary contributions poured in for Mrs. A's daily two hour travel and meal expenses from Lower Kent County, DE to Chester, PA. Donated sick and vacation time from employees allowed Mrs. A to be at her husbands side and still receive a full salary.

We were all aware that the hospital only allowed three daily visitations for two hours at a time. The A's also have a teenage daughter attending school, and live-in mother who needs part time elder care. From time to time Mrs. A would stop by at work very emotional thanking us for our love and support. She and her family were overwhelmed from the generosity of her coworkers and strangers that became aware of their struggle.

Everyday, we'd search each other out to find out the progression or setbacks of a coworker's spouse. We all adopted their family and gave them hope, love, and faith as we posted prayers and good thoughts to support him and their family. At times, Mrs. A would ask for continued prayers as she read each posting to her husband and family. Many times, she would post how the prayers were working and how quickly he was healing.

To many, Mr. A became a living breathing miracle as he continued to heal after skin graft surgeries, scary high blood pressure surges, blood counts, and ventilator oxygen percentages. We were amazed at Mrs. A's tireless worry and days without sleep. It was December 1, when Mrs. A finally received a kiss from her husband, 21 days after his accident. In the next days he was moved to a physical therapy location in Philadelphia where his wife was able to stay with him round-the-clock. On December 12, Mr. A was able to go home.

Mr. A still has a long way to go. He will continue with more skin graft surgeries at Crozer Chester. Also, he will be travelling to Chestertown, MD for rehabilitation to help them stretch grafts on his hand, armpits and shanks . His organs have to readjust after laying down without movement for 22 days. He is very dizzy and slow going, but his body is rejuvenating.

During a recent visit, buddies from his work had him laughing for the first time. She said it was music to his wife's ears. As she posted, "Prayers really work!! We thank you for your continued prayers through this difficult time in our lives. It brings tears to our eyes every time we talk about it. It's amazing that he got a second chance at LIFE, and I get a second chance at LOVE.

.

10/1/2011 "Keeping Up With The Loockermans"

On the first Saturday of October, at a First State Heritage Park Program, I was excited to learn more about the family name "Loockerman" which is the name of a street that runs through the business section of Dover. Dover had a family in the 1700s, who gained significant wealth through real estate and as merchants. Researching the family was tricky considering the lack of documents. In 18th century Dover, the well-heeled family might have a cupboard of rum and sugar and a closet of quilted petticoats and silk gowns. Not only would Vincent Loockerman’s have all those luxuries, but he was likely the person who brought the goods up the St. Jones River to the citizens of Dover. I felt so surprised when I got a rare look at the Loockerman family through artwork, furniture, clothing and documents .


"Meet the Loockermans” Under the tent on The Green
Visitors should start here to meet this family of 18th-century merchants who left their mark on Dover’s history. They will encounter two key living-history characters – Vincent and Elizabeth – on this journey of discovery.

“What Elizabeth Wore” The Old State House
This was a rare, one-day-only opportunity to see dresses and accessories worn by Susannah and Elizabeth Loockerman in 1750 – 1810, now in the collections of the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs. From silk ballgowns of the late 1700s to the Napoleonic looks of the early 1800s, the Loockerman women stayed fashion forward. Two standouts from the collection are a rose silk gown paired with a rose quilted petticoat and red damask slippers and a cream colored, wool empire style gown from about 1810. Very few clothing collections exist from this time period, or at least collections this complete. Others may have one dress or one male ensemble; the Loockermans left eight complete looks. I felt as though I was looking at Cinderella's gowns.....only, I was inches away without glass. The dresses and shoes had not been displayed since 1976. I was so happy to be part of this one day event!

“Where Vincent Sat” Biggs Museum of American Art
The furniture owned by Vincent Loockerman was displayed along with his 1750 portrait on loan from the State of Delaware. By looking at their furniture, their items and their houses, Vincent was successful, and it showed. When you’re probably one of the wealthiest men in the U.S., you’re going to want luxury goods, you’re going to want to look the part and not just in your own person but in your family.




“What Dover Bought” John Bell House
Dover residents of the 18th century were eager consumers. These people where connected and knew what the trends in Philadelphia were. The kinds of goods that merchants like Loockerman imported from Philadelphia and the world via the St. Jones River were on display to see and touch.

The John Bell House was just recently renovated and dates back to the mid-1700s and was owned by three generations of the Bell family. The Bells owned and operated a series of 18th-century taverns around The Green, and it is believed that the structure originally served as a workshop. In the mid-19th century, two notable Delawareans – Nathaniel Smithers and George Valentine Massey – maintained law offices in the building.

“What Words Reveal” Delaware Public Archives
Surviving Loockerman family papers, ledgers, deeds, wills and inventories reveal 18th-century Dover’s world of merchants and consumers. When viewing these ledgers and accounts, I was not only looking at what Vincent Loockerman was able to purchase from Philly, but also what the market was in Dover.

12/16/2011 First State Heritage Park

Part of Delaware's (DNREC) Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Control is the First State Heritage Park. It is located in and around the Capitol of Dover. There are free walking tours of The Dover Green led by historical interpreters in period dress! Building tours are free on the first Saturday of each month including: Legislative Hall, Johnson Victrola Museum, First State Heritage Park Welcome Center & Galleries, The John Bell House, The Old State House, and the Biggs Museum of American Art.

I'm assigned to this part of our Parks Division as a computer network technician. I love working with this particular group because of the creative programming for the public they do each month to share the history of Kent County and the state. This fall has been especially fun for me. I was introduced to many of the historical interpreters who create, write, direct, and portray historical people and events. I was invited to participate in their programs in 2012. I felt very honored and am looking forward to represent a person of interest in the history of Delaware. Recently, I've attended three historical event programs: two in Dover, and one in Smyrna.

I hope you will enjoy reading about the history of Delaware as I learn and blog more about what I've experienced, enjoyed, and find interesting.

Threatened Green Sea Turtle Mother in Delaware

One of the highlights working at DNREC this fall, has been following the story of a green sea turtle found on Delaware's Cape Henlopen Beach. Since the nest’s discovery by a Delaware State Parks ranger, who observed the green sea turtle mother laying the eggs near a jetty on Aug. 18, high tides, predators, hurricanes and tropical storms have threatened its survival. He found it around 2-3am, thinking it was someone sleeping on the beach. To his surprise, he found the amazingly large turtle.

It was against all odds that the mother was way far north and a month late dropping her eggs. The nest was first protected from the encroaching tide by moving it to higher ground, and then protected from predators by erecting an enclosure around the site and posting 24 hour guard. A week after the first move, Hurricane Irene deposited a heavy14-inch layer of sand on top of the nest. After being carefully excavated by hand from the effects of Irene, volunteers were faced with the same task after Tropical Storm Lee.

Sea turtles usually lay their eggs on beaches in warmer climates, and the sand temperature was getting too low for them to survive. A clutch of nearly 190 eggs laid was successfully moved on Oct. 5 to a climate-controlled room at the University of Delaware's College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment. The move marks the latest in a series of actions to help the nesting – the first of its kind recorded in Delaware – and ensure the safety of the eggs.

Since the nest was laid, DNREC worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Florida office and with North Carolina Wildlife Resources, who has experience with nesting. A special temperature module sent from North Carolina was buried in the sand at the same depth as the eggs, and helped make the determination that the eggs would have to be removed from the beach to have a chance of hatching. Our staff joined a group of 15 volunteers from MERR (the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute), and spent more than an hour moving the ping-pong-ball-sized white eggs one by one into specially-prepared 22-quart styrofoam boxes. With a Fish and Wildlife Enforcement escort, the eggs were transported by car – very slowly, so as not to jostle their precious contents – to the nearby University of Delaware campus. In the climate-controlled chamber, under the watchful eyes of MERR volunteers, temperatures were gradually raised by 2 degrees every three hours with the goal of reaching optimal hatching temperature of about 80 degrees.

On Dec. 6, the first three (3) baby green sea turtles hatched and made history as the first ever documented sea turtle nest in Delaware. As the other eggs continued to hatch the lights stayed low and the noise to a minimum. A total of eight (8) hatched. The rest of the eggs were put in an incubator and transported to North Carolina's Duke University Marine Lab to be assessed. The recent and soon-to-be hatchlings will go to the Pine Knolls Aquarium to make sure they are properly hydrated and wait for arrangements to be released into the ocean.

Video of the little guys!http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20111208/NEWS08/112080344/8-baby-green-sea-turtles-190-eggs-sent-N-C-?odyssey=tabtopnewstextHome

That's Show Biz for Ya!

Well, after 2 good months of practices "Holiday Spirit" were canceled at the Smyrna Opera House. The musical was scheduled for Dec. 2-4. Just three days before opening night, two of the actors have fallen very ill and a third had to drop-out unexpectedly, said David Keller, Opera House executive director.

The Smyrna production was directed by Barb Bigelow, a veteran of the opera house stage. The actors include Steve Hailey as Father; Valorie Hailey as Mother; Frank Gavas as Man; Niki Hodgson as Woman; Amanda Tusio as Big Sister; and Katie Loftus as Little Sister.“We are enjoying the rehearsals for ‘Holiday Spirit,’ which is about a homeless couple that fortunately finds shelter the night before Christmas,” Ms. Bigelow said.“The story unfolds through laughter, song, tears, and joy. David Keller has written a beautiful heart-warming story with both original and familiar carols. It has a clear message of hope and love that represents what Christmas is all about.”

The Smyrna Opera House did not think it would be fair to our paying customers to have three new actors walking around the stage with scripts in-hand, Keller said. Keller apologized for any inconvenience. Christmas concert planned instead Dec. 4

The Opera House is pleased to announce that David Keller and his good friend Paul Kranz, who has performed at the Opera House in the past, are going to step in and perform a Christmas music concert on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2:30 p.m.

The music is a mixture of classic hymns, contemporary tunes and original songs, mostly played on acoustic guitar with some piano pieces. Also, the remaining "Holiday Spirit" cast members will be singing some of the tunes from the show interspersed with the guitar music.

November 26, 2011 The Carols of Christmas

After only a few rehearsals on a Saturday morning throughout November, I sang in an inspirational program of choral and instrumental music presented by local members of the Wilmington Delaware stake.

The conductor was Dr. Neil Harmon, Director of Music and Organist at Grace United Methodist Church in Wilmington, Delaware where he directs a distinguished music program. A graduate (MM, DMA) of the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, Dr. Harmon has presented organ concerts in the United States, Italy and Brazil.

A native of Midvale, Utah, Dr. Harmon earned his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University, where he was assistant director of the renowned BYU Men's Chorus and organist for the Utah Baroque Ensemble. He taught over 50 beginning organ students in the Group Organ classes at BYU. Since 1991, Dr. Harmon has served as Guest Organist at the Salt Lake Mormon Tabernacle where he presents half hour recitals on the famous Aeolian-Skinner organ.
Dr. Harmon's compositions include hymn arrangements and original works for a variety of instruments. He is serving a second term as Dean of the Delaware Chapter of the American Guild of Organists, and as the Worship and Music Chair of the Delaware Chapter of the American Choral Directors' Association.

Pianist Rebecca Mordo, a touring solo and collaborative artist working closely with opera singers from renowned companies such as the Metropolitan Opera and Opera Company of Philadelphia

Nathan Pacheco is an American singer/songwriter born in Virginia, and is of Brazilian descent. He was a featured vocalist during the 2009 tour for "Yanni Voices"[1], produced by Disney Pearl Imprint, and is currently signed to the Disney Pearl Series label.[2]
Nathan graduated from the music program of Brigham Young University, and also followed his love of culture and languages by continuing his education abroad in South America and Europe. Nathan spent over two years in Brazil, being immersed in its culture and allowing its influence to contribute to his musical development. He eventually traveled throughout Brazil, performing both classical as well as some of Brazil’s cultural music. He also spent time in Italy, studying the language while performing with the Opera Festival of Lucca. In all of these adventures to different countries, he was relentless in his efforts to learn the languages. The result is his ability to speak and compose in English, Portuguese, Italian and Spanish.

In 2009, Nathan relocated to Southern California after being signed to the Disney Pearl Series label and has been writing the songs that will make up his debut solo album. Nathan has collaborated with many writers under the direction of producer/composer Leo - Z (Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban). For his album, Nathan recorded with the Philharmonia Orchestra in London at Air Studios.

Kathy Cammett, of Golden Voice Studio in Pike Creek, who has worked with Cab Calloway School of the Arts, OperaDelaware and World Cafe Live.

Baritone Robert Brandt, professor of music at the University of Delaware, and his wife, soprano Kara Brandt, recent winner of the Austrian American Society of Wilmington's Mozarteum Scholarship competition.

Our program consisted of the following numbers:

Choir
Far, Far Away on Judea's Plains
Glory Be to God on High

Vocal Solo
Gesu Bambino

Piano Duet
Carol Medley

Orchestra
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring

Choir
Joseph, Dearest
Angels We Have Heard on High

Orchestra
Medley of Familiar Christmas Carols
Pat-A-Pan

Vocal Duet
Oh Holy Night Kara Brandt soprano; Robert Brandt, bariton

Piano Solo
Medley: Carols of the Bells Rebecca Mordo, piano

Vocal Solo
O Come All Ye Faithful Nathan Pacheco, tenor

Choir
I Heart the Bells on Christmas Day
Still, Still, Still

Hymn : Hark the Herald Angels Sing (All Choir/Concert Participants & Audience)

2011 Adventures

It's been quite a while since I posted anything on my blog. After directing Nunsense, I needed a break from my theatrical activities. I hadn't realized how much energy it takes to organize and direct a show. I had a great experience, and am looking forward to directing a children's play in the summer. We are planning more family entertainment at the Smyrna Opera House this year.

Since the New Year has begun, I have taken up 5K local races. Two of my favorite coworkers got me interested in the walking aspect, since I don't like running. Joe Young (on left) is a walker, and brings his grandson for the tot races, and Jose (right) is a runner. Last week he placed 1st in his age bracket.

Our local high school had a complete overhaul. The drama club had to postpone their shows because the stage was being used as the bandroom. We are now in -what should be the end, but now - in the middle of rehearsing, Bye Bye Birdie with a new director. Luckily we've worked on stage together, so the communication is flowing. I'm not only directing the music, but helping with directing the scenes.

Last week I was invited by the Executive Director of the Smyrna Opera House to be a judge at the final show of our "Smyrna's Got Voice - Kids Talent Competition." The audience decides who wins, however we give positive feedback to the contestants on how well they perform by the song choice, voice range, and style. I was amazed at at the talent of these 10, 14, and 17 year olds. It was nice to be invited. My cohort judges was (left) Mr. Irv Rothenburg whose been a music teacher in our school district for over 30 years. Scott McClymot is a local preacher who is known for his uplifting services also plays drums for the SOH. We had a fun time watching our youth perform!

St. Joseph's Industrial School for Colored Boys

It is my experience, if you want to know about the history of something, it will be revealed.When Matthew was just a small tot, Jim and I would take him for walks on the grounds of St. Joseph's Church. It is located just outside of the residential town border of Clayton, Delaware. One enters the grounds through a stone arch that reads St. Joseph's Industrial School, and a scripture "What good doth it do a man to gain the whole world and yet lose his soul. Matthew 16:26" The church was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

I had always wondered if any of the boys that went to school here lived in the area. I also thought, it was such a beautiful peaceful place. Somehow the idea of writing an article in our local newspaper entered my mind. It was an impression to gather and educate our community about the idle property and find any remaining students to recant their experience.

An old decommissioned small chapel and old bell-less tower still stands surrounded by other buildings. Also marked are the stations of the cross around the 10-acre lot. One day we were walking, and a couple approached us and told us they got married in the chapel, but needed witnesses to sign the license. As we entered the chapel, you could see three sides of building covered in 53 stained-glass windows with the names of students, staff, and faculty. Originally, the building was lit with gas-lighting by the Josephites that lived there.

Beginning in 1896, the chapel was the center of activity at the St. Joseph’s Industrial School, an institution which served African American boys, providing them vocational skills, academics, and spiritual guidance. In 1920, St. Joseph’s Church became the parish church for the Catholic population in the Smyrna-Clayton area. Both the members of the school and the residents of the parish shared the chapel until 1968 when St. Polycarp was built in Smyrna. While the church was used by several small congregations after the industrial school closed down in 1972, it and the rest of the 10 acre property sat mostly idle. It wasn’t until 1997 that a group was formed to acquire ownership of the property, preserve its historical and cultural heritage, and restore it for use by all members of the local community.

10 years later: Another prompting, and I took a look at our local newspaper, the Smyrna/Clayton Sun Times, only to find an article written about the school and on-line comments to find a remark: "I am a graduate of St. Joseph's School for Colored Boys and am certainly grateful to the school for changing my life." I was thrilled and instantly emailed the man with my thoughts and curiosities of the school. He was so happy to be connected to someone from the area. I sent him recent pictures of the grounds. He has been through a rough patch of life, but felt strongly prompted to remember the life in Clayton. We are Facebook buddies and keep in touch a few times a year. Amazing, how God creates miracles by working through those who are willing to listen to his promptings!

In Loving Memory of Casey Santana Butler

Ten days ago, I found out that my former supervisor Mick Butler, no longer a DNREC employee, lost his young daughter in a tragic death. Casey Santana Butler was born on March 11, 1992. She was an 18-year-old bassoonist at the Peabody Conservatory and collapsed during a private lesson. She was in the midst of her weekly lesson about 12:30 p.m. when she lost consciousness and was prounounced dead at the hospital on November 15.

Last night I went to Casey Butler’s memorial in Bel Air, MD. I arrived at 5:30pm at the church and found police helping with parking and traffic. There were hundreds of people in attendance. I stood outside for nearly 20 minutes in line of funeral-goers wrapped around the building. I only wished I would have been able to give her parents, Mick and Sue, a huge warm hug. I waited to tell them that their DNREC friends were sorry to hear of their loss, and that they were on our hearts and minds. However, I was about 100 feet away from Mick & Sue when attendees were asked to be seated because the services were about to begin. The family was then taken away momentarily for a few private moments.

The memorial was a celebration of her life’s music, from the sound of her birth cry to the notes of the piano and her bassoon. Each musical group, student, musician, teacher, and friend performed favorite classical pieces of theirs, hers, and ones they shared . Each select group was listed as a “Symphony.” There were five symphonies which lasted 1 ½ hrs. There were bassoon, bass, and flute duets. Violin, piano, oboe, and bassoon solos. One gentleman sang “Seasons of Love” also known as 525,600 minutes acapella with such passion. He precluded his song by stating how Casey filled her life with the love of music each moment. Poetry, good memory moments, and a piano piece composed just for her was shared by her close family and friends. The Youth Chamber Orchestra, Peabody Conservatory of Music, and Bel Air High School Counterpoints Choir members spoke through their music. We all wept, laughed, smiled, and prayed together as each “Symphony” was shared. Each person that performed hugged each family member.

The most tender moment of the tribute was when her father stood at the pulpit and and shared his open letter to Casey. Her mother also shared her letter, but had Rev. Sarah deliver it. Each letter was an intimate expression of their love, respect, and adoration. What a gift to hear the history of her beautiful life with humor, tenderness, and honesty. Casey was not only loved, but an model to those around her. She lived each day to the fullest filled with passion for music, compassion for others, having faith that all things are possible with hard work . One teacher quoted Casey expressing that “Life is Music!”

The presiding clergy, a married couple, testified that she truly understood what life was all about in just her short 18 years of life on earth. They also mentioned how blessed they were to live across the street from the Butlers. Another miracle of friendship, that at this particular time they would serve their daughter. Both serve as chaplains in the armed services. They watched the Butler children grow into amazing young people. A beautiful spiritual song sung by the high school choir, that Casey usually accompanied on piano, ended the performances. Mick stood up and applauded. We all joined him, as the room was filled with gratitude and thanks for those that shared their music. In closing, a quote from Dale Carnegie “For better or worse you must play your own little instrument in the orchestra of life” helped us to reflect on how we can make our lives rich and extraordinary like Casey. It was a wish that her contribution and example with lift a future musician, to pass her message of peace and love onward to others – that they too will find how to fill their lives with passion.

As I left the pew and started out, I was gratified to see the Butlers surrounded by compassion, concern, love, and respect. They were deeply moved and touched by the response of the community and long-term friendships. As I passed the last pew, there stood an former DNREC co-worker and friend Enemute Oduaran from Nigeria. We hugged and shared smiles promising to keep in touch by email.

We are ever connected by the time spent together in past, present, and future. That can not be changed! I’m very grateful for my job and for the friendships I hold dear.

At Peabody Conservatory, Life is Music - Casey Butler leaves an inspiring legacy

More Information about Casey:
Casey Santana Butler, age 18, of Abingdon, MD, died on November 15, 2010. Born in Wilmington, DE, she was the daughter of Michael Paul and Susan Moreland Butler of Abingdon, MD. A resident of Harford County for 11 years, she graduated from Bel Air High School in 2010 where she was a member of the Honor Society for four years, as well as, the Spanish Honor Society. She was a member of the Bel Air High School Band, Orchestra, and Chorus; the All County Band and Orchestra for four years; and she had earned a place on the All State Band where she played 1st chair bassoon. She was also field commander for the Bel Air Marching Band. For five years she was a member of the Harford Youth Orchestra, which was conducted by Brian Folus; three years with the Maryland Youth Chamber Orchestra, which was conducted by Vladimir Lande; and for two years, she has been a member of the Peabody Youth Orchestra, which is conducted by Dr. Harlan Parker. She was currently studying at the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University. A 2009 Benjamin Carson Scholar Award Winner and 2010 Recognition Scholar, she also participated for eight years with the Destination Imagination which is a Creative Problem Solving Group.

Smyrna High Homecoming 2010

This year is an important year for me. I'm 45 and when the fall temps started to tease us here in Delaware Mid-Sept., I was completely ready for fall. In fact, I think I started changing colors myself. I'm more positive and ready for adventure, almost as if I'm ready to peak? Probably a little too early, but I feel my love for life getting better each and every day.

When school began I was already for homecoming because, I wanted to twirl my flag. All the other years, I felt as if I wanted to hide behind it. However, I couldn't wait. My good friend Jamie, the high school theatre/drama teacher, SOH thespian, and newlywed which moved to PA this summer. She will no longer be at Smyrna High, but has finally graduated from divorce' and single mother to wife/step parent/spouse. She is a new stepmother to two terrific twin teenage boys, and an exchange student from China. I couldn't imagine starting off the year with these kids without Jamie. I asked her to come down and twirl with me. After all, she was the former SHS Regiment of Red's bandfront leader and choreographer as well.

We practiced our school's Alma Mater-theme song. Even though we were warned that the song is no longer played with a slow tempo, we did our best. I was amazed that the "silks" no longer include some of the moves because they are too elementary and boring. It wasn't as easy to manipulate the flag around my body. However, we asked four other bandfront alumni at the game to join us. We were positioned between all of the present marchers. We marched onto the field and hit our field lines and were positioned as an arch at the top of the band. As the music began, I starting counting 1 and 2 and 3 and 4.

Wow, after my sixth spin, I realized that they doubled the time on the song.....and I had missed my stop. So I stopped my pole and went the other direction for another sixth spin. I completely missed my stop but not on purpose. I was trying to keep up as the music was faster and faster. Next my broom sweeps from above my head to below...forget it. Two more beats and the music stopped, and so did my flagpole. I was out of breath, and complete red from trying to keep up.

As soon as we faced right to march off the field, I started giggling and couldn't stop. Who cares, I thought! That was amazing....so much fun. Jamie and I gathered the other flags from the others and put them in the shed. We continued our grownup discussion on her return plans, and said goodbye. However, the next day, I was surprised to get the fun photos.

I felt like a Senior ~ all over again!

The fun part about homecoming for me isn't that I see several folks from my class. No, actually, it is watching the present classmates in their new position from Freshmen up to the Seniors. Every year, I'm introduced to the new Freshmen in the band. I sneak into their marching band practices. Go to their chorus, and jazz band concerts. I get to see a preview of the kids that will be in the Spring musical. I see them when I'm shopping or at a school function. Either way, I love to watch them grow and become adults. My first student came to the football game with her 6 mo. old baby girl. I'd seen her on facebook, but it was nice to tell her how proud I am to know her.

It certainly is a blessing to live in a small hometown community where everybody knows your name.

A Traditional Wedding in Quanitco, Maryland

On Sunday, October 10, 2010 (10/10/10) several coworkers, Matt, and I joined Amy Nicole DiPilla and Nathan Glenn Davidson in the celebration of the their love at one o'clock at the Old Green Hill Church in Quantico, MD. Nate, presently a history teacher in Saulisbury, worked with the AmeriCorp as a Programs Coordinator at Ft. Dupont, was Caesar Rodney in the Legislation re-enactment, and our evening graveyard lantern tour guide through several old historic places in Dover, just to name a few.

St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church (aka Green Hill Church) was one of the original 30 Anglican parishes built for the province of Maryland. The original log built church was constructed in 1694, but replaced with the current brick building in 1733. It is located right on the banks of the Quanitco River. There is an old cemetery located right next the the church with old epitaphs. It is a beautiful and peaceful spot. We tested our bubbles there to make sure they worked.

The interior has a high pitched roof with exposed wooden beams across. The 18th century woodwork still remains. It's raised panel pew partitions are arranged on each side of wide aisles that align with the two front doors. Each partition, like a box, but only three pews in the shape of a U, still have the butterfly hinges on the doors. Imagine yourself walk down an aisle, then turning left or right to find yourself facing a box like enclosure. You open the hinged doors, and turn to face the pulpit, and then have a . The carved pulpit is connected on an angle and complete with a wooden canopy. The grounds are maintained, and although there is no service, it is opened every year in August for the Annual St. Bartholomew's day celebration and church service.

The wedding ceremony was researched and chosen with Bible and verse of the appropriate 18th century time period. One of the readings was "Husbands love your wife, as Jesus loved the church. Give yourself up to your wife. Treat her as if you would treat your own sacred body." We all made our way out of the church into a single line to blow bubbles to their white limousine. It was a beautiful 79F degrees with a nice breeze. We all gathered around the couple for a nice group friends/family picture.

Afterwards, we headed to the Green Hill Yacht & Country Club. It has a spectacular view of the wildlife and setting suns. The clubhouse building was surrounded by lots of decking with breath taking views of the river, a beautiful recreational pool, and docking for boats to disembark for a delicious meal. We were treated to hors d'oeuvres, dinner, and dancing. The groom sang a special touching song, special to each other, for his wife.

I felt so blessed to be surrounded by my lovely coworkers, which are like family. Matthew enjoy the conversation and laughter as well. He loved dancing with all the single professionals in their 20s and being in the lineup of men catching the garter. After the pictures were taken, and most of the guests departed we made our way out to the parking lot giving each other hugs. We gave the newlyweds a bon voyage knowing they were packed and ready for their Bermuda honeymoon.

Just as the sun was setting, and the air started cooling we saw an ultralight plane with floats taking off from the river.

An Evening of Talent with Our Primary Kids

Thursday the 7th at 7pm, my church ward had a Talent Show activity for our *Primary children under the age of 12. There must have been at least 100 people in the audience. My cub scouts (8 & 9 year olds) did a few skits (one liner jokes) for the audience. Every child performed at least once or twice, depending on their individual or group talents. We had piano and trombone recitals, comedians, artists doing live quick paintings, new popular line dances, gymnastics, a hoola-hoop combination dance, cheerleading, and singing: All six verses of Puff the Magic Dragon, twinkle twinkle, and even the Primary leaders sang a song together.

However, one 9 year old girl named Brierly decided to dance to a sweet little country song (see below). She went to the raised platform stage, poised herself at the microphone and announced that she would be dancing all the parts of the song and dedicating it to her Daddy, whom she loved very much. She danced without rehearsed choreography, full of expression and flowing moves. She started out with her back to the audience because she had a bit of stage fright. Only when she twirled or slowly made a small circle or moves on the floor could you see her face. Her lips moved as she sang the slow ballad softly to herself. I was brought to tears as I watched her dance with abandon. She seemed to slide across the stage as if she was ice dancing as she bent backwards, forwards, and around. It was simply beautiful and heartwarming. It occurred to me that it was a teachable moment, that I was admiring. How wonderful it is to see children inspired by the spirit of God. When I sing or play piano for a spell, I feel liberated and most connected to God. Every day for me is a great day to be alive and to focus on God's blessings in my life! During this talent show evening I had the opportunity to listen to the music of their spirits in dance, music, laughter, smiles, and the happy clapping of the crowd!

Stealing Cinderella by *Chuck Wicks. (Click on the link for more information)

*Primary is the name we call our Sunday School for kids ages 4-12 years old. After leading the music for communion/sacrament service, I play the piano for sharing time for two hours in Primary. The Primary kids are split one hour for singing/sharing time, and the other for Sunday School. Everyone leaves at 1pm. Three hours may seem long. Sometimes it feels that way, when it has already been an exhausting week. However, for me, my church is a where I am spiritually fed and fellowship with people that have become my extended spiritual family. Sunday is my favorite day because it is very enjoyable as we all worship and learn about the scriptures, sing, share our testimonies and talents with one another. When I arrive home and have my mid-day meal, I take a nice two hour nap. I get up and usually share a meal with Matthew and Jim at our favorite Italian restaurant. It is a great way to start the week.

Nunsense 3-day run closes with 440 tickets sold!

Nunsense was a success. I truly enjoyed the directing opportunity. I learned many things.

1. You can never plan too early. When you do, you can't plan on anything but yourself.
2. You can't count on a promise from anyone about committing to a show.

3. Know your strengths and your weaknesses. You can't have enough help.

4. Know what you want, but be prepared to work with others creativity.

5. Schedule practices, so that the majority can make it.

6. Don't expect during tech week that everyone will be in attendance.

7. Almost two thirds of your time will be coaching right along the stage or actor.

8. Enjoy what your doing, don't take yourself too serious.

9. Word of mouth works better in a small town, than paid advertisement.

I was ever so humbled when most of my friends, co-workers, church members, and community contacts came out to support me and my first official Directorial debut. It was great seeing so many smiling faces in the audience each and every night. Also, having the support of the Smyrna Opera House's new Executive Director, David Keller helped me to attack the show with confidence.

12 More Practices and then it's SHOWTIME!

More Pictures to follow........as we move forward towards Opening Night!

A Sad Time for our DNREC Zoo Keepers

A sad time for my co-workers at the Brandywine Zoo. Their 20-year-old Siberian Tiger, Ashley, had fallen ill and died last Saturday evening. She arrived in Delaware in 1995. She was 5 years old when she came from the Saint Louis Zoo in Missouri.

The zoo "definitely" will get another tiger, though when hasn't been decided. The zoo tiger population in the United States is managed through the nonprofit Association of Zoos and
Aquariums. Brandywine Zoo is accredited by the AZA.

There are only about 130 Siberian tigers, also called Amur tigers, in zoos around the country, Through the AZA program, tigers are free to zoos, though they must pay transportation costs.

The zoo will wait at least a few months before getting a new tiger. The zoo wants to make some improvements to the tiger enclosure. They also want to wait for cooler weather to avoid transporting a tiger in the summer heat.

Initially when Ashley arrived, she was housed with Kublai Khan, an older tiger. After Kublai Khan died, Ashley was paired with another Siberian tiger named Sergei. That relationship never worked out. Sergei had been raised by hand at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in
Colorado Springs, Colo., so he preferred humans over other tigers. Ashley and Sergei growled at each other and occasionally fought, so the zoo kept them in separate enclosures.

Tigers in the wild have a life span of 10 to 15 years. In captivity, longevity may reach as high as 20 years. According to the Zoo's Director, Nancy Falasco, Ashley's long life of 20 years is a tribute to the good care she received at both the Brandywine Zoo and the St. Louis Zoo, where she was born July 21, 1990.

The Brandywine Zoo is located in beautiful Brandywine Park in Wilmington, Delaware. The Zoo grounds cover 13 landscaped acres on high ground above the Brandywine River. The Zoo hosts 150 animals, from tigers to snakes, and is open all year round.

The Brandywine Zoo is managed by the Division of Parks and Recreation with the support of the Delaware Zoological Society.

Vermont Bigelow & Utah's Brigham Young line

This month, our Church Organization celebrates Pioneer Day. Tomorrow, I will play pioneer songs that were sung as the Latter Day Saints walked with their only belongings in their handcarts. We will all dress in Pioneer clothing and pull our own handcart across the property. We will educate the children by talking about our ancestors which also were apart of the journey to Utah. I have distant relatives that were original Pioneers that walked from Illinois to Utah to escape persecution. Many lives were lost, but to them it was walking through the dessert just as the Jews did along with Moses to find a place to worship and be safe.

.....This is not my direct line, but my 2nd Bigelow cousin 5 generations ago. Muriel Bigelow's Mother was Madeline Young. Her father was born in Gorham, Maine and her mother was from East Livermore, ME. The Bigelow's came from England, but settled in Massachusetts.

It all began with Nahum Bigelow, born in Brandon, VT on February 19, 1785. As a common New Englander, his family were farmers and stock raisers. With true Yankee restlessness, he decided to try something with greater promise and speedy wealth. With a peddler's pack, he travelled from place to place until he came to Lawrenceville, Illinois. Nahum was middle-age at 36 when he met, Mary Gibbs who was just 12 years old. They married on December 2, 1826.

Their first child, Mary Jane (October 15, 1827), the second was a son named Hirum (May 20, 1829). Then came Lucy (October 3, 1830) the best looking of the family. Then Asa Elijah (Feb, 2, 1832) and in a short time Lovina (March 24, 1834).

When Lovina was a baby, rumours of a new religion of Joseph Smith and followers came to the farmhouse in Lawrenceville. The mysterious golden Bible and revelations from God were often spoken about by friends and neighbors.

Another son, Liola (October 4, 1835) was born. Shortly afterward two elders from the church came with the Book of Mormon preaching the new gospel to the Bigelow family. On Jan. 19, 1838, Sariah was named by her mother, Mary Gibbs, after the mother of the Lamanite and Nephite nation. Mary receive the gospel in her heart long before her and her family's baptism.

After many years of thoughtful prayer and bible study did Nahum, wife, and older children get baptized on April 29, 1839. After this another son, whom they named Moroni (September 1, 1840). They next moved to Mercer County, Illinois where Daniel was born on March 18, 1842. The family moved Lawrence to Coles County 10 years previously. They lived in North Illinois for another 4 years which was still quite a distance from the body of the Church in Navoo. Nahum decided to move once more and in the year 1843 bout 160 acres of prairie land. He was was only 18 miles from Navoo in Hancock County.

At this time there was religious persecution from those that hated and took abuse to Church members. Encouraged by the Governor (Ford) mobs would gather and set fire to hay stacks and barns of unsuspecting Mormons. Hiding behind the trees, as the husband would rush out to save his property, the men would shoot the Mormon leaving him to die in the arms of his wife and children. All this while Nahum would quietly go about his work, another child was born named after the Prophet, Joseph Smith (July 4, 1844). The Church's leader died June 1844.

In early fall of 1845, the members of the church were advised to move into the city of Navoo for protection. The Governor and new President Brigham Young made an agreement that he would gather the saints and move them beyond the borders of Illinois if they would go unmolested. Thousands of people moved far west. However, there were still people with homes outside the city, that were given permission to return and gather their crops if they felt brave enough to do so. The Governor promised protection, but suggested that when the state militia was not present, President Young should have a militia organized to help themselves. It was so done.

Nahum, quietly returned with his family to his farm, not ever having fear of man, was protected by the Mormon militia. It was not long that the plague had settled some of the children and at length attacked the father as well. The faithful mother went from bed to bed attending the wants of her sick children.

Surviving threatening mobs, standing trial at Carthage, near death pranks of poison to his family, he himself finally died after 5 years of living and suffering with pain. It was due to a neighbor poisoning him with arsenic-tainted coffee. He died in 1851. Loving hands and aching hearts did the rest—all that was left to do. As he waited to see the Prophet one more time just before his passing, his spirit left his body just as Brigham's carriage arrived at his home. And thus in the cemetery at Salt Lake City lies one of the sturdy Bigelow family who died for his family, his religion and his God! Mary Gibbs Bigelow died 19 April 1888.

Brigham Young married Mary Jane, his first daughter, in 1847 with little courting at the unknown country called "the West" Winter Quarters. It is where the Saints crossed snowy mountains and icy rivers in February to nest during the Winter before making the last part of the trip to Salt Lake. She stayed, and married to Brigham in Salt Lake City and bore three daughters.

Eudora Lovina "Dora" Young born on May 12, 1852. She died on November 21, 1922. She had two marriages and lived in Spokane, Washington.

Susa Amelia Young was born on March 18, 1856. She died on May 27, 1933. She was also twice married and remained in Provo, Utah.

Rhoda Mabel was born Februray 22, 1863 and died on September 20, 1950.

Lucy moved into the Lion House in 1855, until it was finished and remained there until President Young moved her and her family to St. George in November 1870, where she remained until 1892. Lucy did considerable missionary work in the Sandwich Islands and other places. She died in 1905.

As for the future of Nahum and Mary's other children:

Nahum, the first son, married Mary Mecham in Provo. He was asked to move to Dixie and grew a huge family in Arizona.

In the next Summer or Spring of 1948, President Young came back for more Saints, he asked to take Lucy (2nd daughter) with him. Lucy, however, divorced him and remarried four other times. She had one daughter at age 40 and died 6 months later.

Asa, with his family, is living in Provo. He is the same brave, fearless soul, and like all those with Bigelow blood in their veins, is conscientious and cautious to a marked degree. A loving father and kind husband, he is known as a good neighbor and honest friend. His numerous children have grown up under his wise watch and care.

Lovina married John Witt and settled in Heber City, Utah. Her large family are mostly married and settled down.

Liola, who was singularly intelligent and a spiritual child, died in his youth in Illinois on August 15, 1845. He had the black canker, which took his under jaw bone cut and five teeth. When Mary Gibbs (the mother) went to visit the same summer to see her parents, Liola died while she was gone. He was so bad that the neighbors came in and sat up with him. They were also there after he died. He had spasms. The family had blessings by President Young.

Sariah married a Mr. Daniel Cook and had several children. They had several misfortunes. Finally losing her reason, she died in this condition in Fairfield, Utah, in 1877.

Moroni—a loving, jovial, bright soul—was married to Elvira Mecham and had four children, one dying in its infancy. He was called on a mission to the Eastern States in 1868. On his return home he was murdered while crossing the Missouri River. He was thrown overboard by some dangerous desperadoes, presumably for the money which he carried.

Daniel married Miss Permelia Mecham. Together they have reared a fine little family. His family is a large one, but his affection and watch care reach out over every part and individual thereof. Whoever knows, honors and respects Daniel Bigelow.

Joseph Smith was the last child and lived only a few short months, dying during the violent persecutions which raged in Illinois.

America's Roadside in Smyrna, Delaware.

On the roadsides of America, you will find many attractions, signs, and statues. It's the ones that are of past years that always seem to stick out. However, as our little towns of Smyrna and Clayton grow, it gets new owners, new buildings, and new businesses. The old gets moved, cleaned up or transformed. Recently, in Smyrna we had two landmarks recently move. Smyrna residents, would mention these "marks" when giving directions to visitors.

1. The Smyrna Diner offers all the dinner classics, from the all-day breakfasts to liver and onions to belly warming chicken and slippery dumplings. It recently moved up the road to a larger location, but it still offers that delicious diner food.

The original diner was a 1965 Paramount trailer, which replaced a 1954 smaller diner. Later the diner's future exterior was covered with wood. Located in Cleveland, OH, A collector of vintage diners purchased it to restore, then to resell.

So many people here have great memories of being in this place. My memory was from the blizzard of 1978. We were visiting Dad for the weekend and he was delivering us back from his apartment in Newark. By the time we got to Smyrna, the roads were impassible. We had to stay in the diner for a few hours before the snowtrucks came. We stayed in the Sheraton in Dover overnight. They didn't plow the backroads of Smyrna (only 5 miles away) until the next day.

The new location is right off our highway bypass route to heading to the beaches.

2. Once a small travel agency named Traquility Travel, now an Antiques store, had a very strange looking statue just outside its doors. The 3000 pound 11 ft. fiberglass horned statue with red eyes, seemed to the same size as the 12 foot tall small brick 2 room building. Only Smyrna townspeople knew what is was from where it came.

It came from Hollywood's set of the 1955 movie The Prodigal starring Lana Turner. It's supposed to be a Babylonian
Fertility God Demon. After year of environmental wear and tear, the snake head has fallen off.

However, it was sold for $4000 to a town in Lumberton, New Jersey. It seems that the new neighborhood doesn't care for it as much as Smyrna, DE.

According to the which newspaper you read it is either a god of fertility, rain, or a giant demon. Either way, it is definitely Pagan and people are up in arms about it. They have referred to it as "despicable" "demonic" and "an eyesore". Even though its head can only be seen over the fence, which extends out near the side of the property, it is not wanted. One neighbor even complained that it scared the horses that are stabled next door. In fact, the township has ordered the new owner to remove it and place it in his backyard where its head can not be seen by passersby. However, the owner wanted to use it as a tourism attraction. Curiously, the local paper mentions that is wonders why the item was located next to a travel agency in the first place, or why the new owner spent $6000 to move it a neighborhood where he knew it would piss off his neighbors.

In Smyrna, the statue was a landmark, with a lovely plastic palm tree right beside it, located across the road from the only Delaware Rest Area built in 1937. There was only a picnic table and a place to park.

I mean, who wouldn't want to travel to some remote island and find that in the jungle, right?

Nunsense is Habit Forming.....

NUNSENSE
at the Smyrna Opera House

Friday & Saturday, September 10 & 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, September 12 at 2:30 p.m.

Nunsense begins when the Little Sisters of Hoboken discover that their cook, Sister Julia, Child of God, has accidentally poisoned 52 of the sisters, and they are in dire need of funds for the burials. The sisters decide that the best way to raise the money is to put on a variety show, so they take over the school auditorium, which is currently set up for the eighth grade production of “Grease.” Here we meet Reverend Mother Regina, a former circus performer; Sister Mary Hubert, the Mistress of Novices; a streetwise nun from Brooklyn named Sister Robert Anne; Sister Mary Leo, a novice who is a wannabe ballerina; and the delightfully wacky Sister Mary Amnesia, the nun who lost her memory when a crucifix fell on her head. Featuring star turns,tap and ballet dancing, an audience quiz, and comic surprises, this show has become an international phenomenon.

CAST

Reverend Mother Regina: Barbara Bigelow
Sister Mary Hubert: Amanda Tusio

Sister Robert Anne: Amy Biang

Sister Mary Leo: Victoria "Nicki" Hodgson

Sister Mary Amnesia: Kathleen Baber

Director(s): Barbara Bigelow & Marissa Parker
Choreographer: Missy Anspach
Lights/Sound: Jim Cantillon, Tish & Rick Schuman
Stage Manager: Rocco Mastroserio

Wild Turkey in Delaware?

No matter what your paid position is at Delaware Dept. of Natural Resources, you never know what you are going to hear or see! This morning I had to go to our Enforcement Protection Office for Air & Waste Management to update software on a few of the Emergency Responders laptops. I drove up, parked the car, and found these two guys hanging out in the parking lot. They were curious about me, but stayed their distance, as I them. However, when one of the Enforcement Officers came out to see if I was safe, they went absolutely crazy and tried to attack him. I think they have a sixth sense of the fact that he goes turkey hunting in his spare time (go figure).

I've never seen a live turkey other than on a farm, or in a zoo. You know, the basic caged bird view. Talk about about a Wild view.....when I got back to my office, I checked my email as usual. (Read below the photos)

Subject: Survey for Wild Turkey in Delaware

Hello DNREC,
The Division of Fish and Wildlife is launching a new, volunteer-based survey to track the distribution and reproductive success of wild turkeys in Delaware. If you see turkeys on your daily commute, while you are out in field, or on that weekend birding trip – we would love to know about it! The survey starts today and goes through the end of August. We asking volunteers to record the location and number of gobblers, hens, and poults (young-of-the-year) they see during the course of their day. The attached file contains an observation data sheet, map, and brief instructions.

Of course, I was reminded of the sign I saw in the Aquarium

on Monday........and watched my footing!