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CHESTERTOWN, MD — A Chestertown man’s routine lunch break turned into a life-changing moment after he followed a suggestion from his father and bought a Maryland Lottery scratch-off ticket
The Eastern Shore resident visited Maryland Lottery headquarters on Tuesday to claim his prize from the Money Rush scratch-off game
still has five top prizes of $100,000 and now just three $50,000 second-tier prizes remaining after this latest win
The winner said the idea to purchase a ticket wasn’t his own
“My dad told me to get a scratch-off ticket while I was out,” he recalled
Though not a regular lottery player himself
he heeded the advice while picking up lunch at Suds-N-Soda
“When I asked the guy at the counter which ticket had been winning for people
The man scratched the ticket later that day at home
“I almost screamed when I saw the $50,000 match
I had to cover my mouth with my hand,” he said
describing the scene as his family broke into celebration while he sat in stunned silence
Sudden win leaves store buzzing with excitement
The winning ticket was purchased at Suds-N-Soda
a Lottery retailer located at 1014 Washington Avenue in Chestertown
The store is now one of several local vendors where recent big wins have occurred in Maryland
Though he has no immediate plans for the prize money
the winner confirmed that it was the most he had ever won from the Lottery
The Maryland Lottery reported that three of the original four $50,000 second-tier prizes in the Money Rush game remain
The game continues to attract attention from new players due to the number of large prizes still in circulation
combined with the father’s encouragement
proved instrumental in the man’s decision to buy a ticket that day
© 2008-2025 - Shore News Media & Marketing Ltd
Karen Marshall Sisco, 64, a beloved figure of Chestertown, MD, departed this life on Friday February 28, 2025, at University of Maryland Hospital in Baltimore Md. Karen “Candy” as she was affectionately known to most, was born in... View Obituary & Service Information
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Raymond E. Clarke, 89, passed away on January 31, 2025, at Heron Point, Chestertown, MD. He was born in Providence, RI to Richardson and Lorena Clarke on December 7, 1935. On his sixth birthday, he went to live with his maternal grandmother,... View Obituary & Service Information
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Peter Caverly Newlin of Chestertown, MD died on October 22, 2024, at the age of 77, in the care of Compass Regional Hospice House of Centreville, MD. He was born on February 26, 1947, in Bryn Mawr, PA to John Shipley and Virginia Strong Newlin.... View Obituary & Service Information
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Maryland
often celebrated for its bustling cities and picturesque coastal destinations
also boasts an array of charming small towns that have quietly risen to the ranks of favorites among U.S
and down to the Chesapeake City's serene canal-side charm
Maryland's small towns have something special to offer
Visitors can savor the essence of Maryland's diverse identity
from maritime traditions to colonial roots
and indulge in regional cuisine that reflects the state's bounty from the Chesapeake Bay
why not add these gems to your travel itinerary and uncover the authentic soul of Maryland
As the sun kisses the Susquehanna River
Havre De Grace awakens in all its maritime glory
you will see picturesque views of sailboats dancing on the bay's shimmering waters
Nature enthusiasts will be mesmerized in Susquehanna State Park
where hiking trails lead to the majestic Rock Run Grist Mill
You can also discover the region's lesser-known
a natural rock formation with a thrilling legend
And don't skip out heading to Concord Point Lighthouse
This 19th-century beacon guided ships through treacherous waters and offers dazzling bay beauty
be sure to spot the mysterious "Poe Toaster," who pays annual homage to Edgar Allan Poe near his memorial
You get to explore Crystal Grottoes Caverns
where you can marvel at the subterranean wonder of stalactites
You can step into the pages of a novel at Turn the Page Bookstore
owned by bestselling author Nora Roberts' husband
a local favorite known for its craft beer selection and hearty dishes
You can also schedule a visit to the Pry House Field Hospital Museum
which played a crucial role during the Battle of Antietam
The museum showcases artifacts and stories from this pivotal Civil War battle
Just a stone's throw from the bustling heart of Washington
where suburban tranquility and artistic vibrancy booms at every corner
Head to the nearby Wheaton Regional Park for a day of outdoor fun
Hidden amidst its acres is the beautiful Brookside Gardens
a blooming oasis with vibrant flora and serene koi-filled ponds
The Kensington Armory is where you will find the Kensington Arts Theatre and the Montgomery Art Association Gallery
You should check their schedules for captivating performances and exhibitions that showcase the town's creative talent
Kensington Antique Row will delight and surprise you with its classic furnishing
and everything in between at The Cusp of Extinction
Goldsborough Glynn Classic Furnishings & Finds
About 30 miles from Delaware
Berlin welcomes you with its charming streets straight out of a postcard
a beautifully restored Victorian-era establishment
proves to be a fantastic first stop with its elegant façade and luxurious accommodations
Discovery awaits you at Burley Oak Brewing Company
where craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy innovative brews
Their experimental approach to brewing sets them apart
a historic treasure trove showcasing Berlin's rich past
including its role as a hospital center during the Civil War
Don't forget to discover the collection of Victorian mourning jewelry
a captivating and somewhat eerie glimpse into the past
The maritime wonderland and the "Heart & Soul of the Chesapeake Bay," St. Michaels
you can check out the working boatyard and discover the craft of shipbuilding
You can also hop aboard the Winnie Estelle
and learn about the region's oyster-harvesting history for an experience like no other
Michaels is renowned for its boutique shopping along Talbot Street
where you can step into charming stores like The Preppy Redneck and The Treasure Chest for unique finds
from nautical-themed jewelry to coastal home decor
For a taste of the bay's culinary delights
steamed blue crabs while overlooking the water
As you stroll down the brick-lined streets of the timeless Chestertown
you will get a glimpse of the vibrant culture
You can take a trip to the historic Emanuel Churchyard
the final resting place of notable figures like George Washington's aide-de-camp
Chestertown's artistic spirit is on full display at galleries like the Carla Massoni Gallery
showcasing the work of regional and nationally recognized artists
a historic site that now houses the Chestertown Visitor Center
you can gather information about the town's attractions and events
including the Chestertown Tea Party Festival
a lesser-known celebration of the local colonial heritage
Oxford emerges like a pearl in a hidden oyster
a collection of ship models intricately crafted by local artisans
and artifacts from the shipwrecks in the Oxford Museum
You should also keep an eye out for the Skipjack Nathan
a historic wooden sailing vessel that occasionally graces the harbor with its majestic presence
Oxford's culinary scene is a testament to its waterfront location
You can savor the freshest seafood at the Oxford Market and enjoy views of the Tred Avon River
Or indulge in a gourmet meal at the Masthead at Pier Street
where you can dine right on the water's edge
Step into a living history book as you arrive in St
a town that allows you to experience Maryland's colonial roots like no other
it's a place where history comes alive on every cobblestone street
You can explore the reconstructed State House of 1676 and the Print House
where you can witness the printing of colonial documents
a replica 17th-century ship that provides insight into early maritime life
A hidden gem in this historic town is the Woodland Indian Hamlet
an intriguing wonder that portrays the lives of indigenous peoples in the 17th century
You can also dine like a colonist at the nearby Brome-Howard Inn
offering a menu inspired by colonial-era recipes
Or head to the Green Door Tavern for a cozy atmosphere and classic American fare
the briny breeze and the sight of watermen at work will set the tone for your visit
Millard Tawes Historical Museum allows you to explore exhibits on the town's history and its significance in the world of crabbing and oystering and dive deep into the lore of Chesapeake watermen
Don't forget to admire the exhibit on the legendary Chesapeake skipjack
providing a glimpse into the world of oyster dredging
A must-do in Crisfield is a boat tour to Smith Island to discover a unique culture
and witness the island's picturesque landscapes
sample fresh crab dishes at the Watermen's Inn or dive into a seafood buffet at the Crisfield Crab Place
Ocean City is a town where the rhythms of the Atlantic Ocean set the pace
Your Ocean City adventure begins on the iconic boardwalk
where you can savor the scent of saltwater taffy at Dolle's Candyland and enjoy thrilling amusement park rides at Trimper's Rides
and you can book a charter for a chance to catch marlin
Fager's Island offers waterfront dining with live entertainment
Jamaica USA boasts a lively atmosphere with multiple bars
Cumberland invites travelers with its stunning natural beauty and rich railroad history
The C&O Canal Towpath presents endless hiking and biking opportunities
is ideal for water sports and relaxation by the shore
A quick trip takes you to the Paw Paw Tunnel on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
where you can admire this engineering marvel carved through the mountain as you stroll the towpath alongside the tranquil waters of the canal
Cumberland's vibrant arts scene flourishes at the Allegany Arts Council
Imagine a place where narrow streets wind past quaint shops and charming cafes
and boats lazily drift along a picturesque canal
the Chesapeake City Museum allows you to explore the town's role in canal history
including stories of mule-drawn boats and lock operations
You can also book a canal boat ride with Chesapeake City Water Tours
passing beneath the soaring Chesapeake City Bridge
and learn about the town's history and its bustling maritime traffic
Be sure to indulge in the tapas and seafood dishes at Schaefer's Canal House
a historic waterfront restaurant boasting stunning canal views
Maryland's small-town favorites have built their reputation not through fleeting charm
but by providing genuine experiences that resonate with travelers
From the delectable seafood of Crisfield to the rich maritime heritage of Chesapeake City
these communities celebrate their roots with open arms
It's not just about visiting; it's about becoming part of the story
one that unfolds in real time and lingers with you long after you've gone
photos and original descriptions © 2025 worldatlas.com
CHESTERTOWN, MD — A casual lunch run turned into a $50,000 payday for one Eastern Shore man, thanks to a timely suggestion from his father and a helpful lottery clerk
the Kent County resident claimed a $50,000 second-tier prize from the Money Rush scratch-off game — the biggest win of his life
The lucky ticket was purchased at Suds-N-Soda
located at 1014 Washington Avenue in Chestertown
he asked the store clerk which game had been winning for others
The $10 ticket was scratched later at home with family
where one match revealed the $50,000 prize
he said he covered his mouth in disbelief while family members began celebrating around him
Money Rush launched in July 2024 and still has five unclaimed $100,000 top prizes
only four $50,000 prizes were available — now only three remain
The family of George Horace Kendall created this Life Tributes page to make it easy to share your memories
The combine kicked up a cloud of dust as it rolled past
snatching soybeans out of Eastern Shore dirt
It’s a familiar harvest season scene in Kent County
where more than half the acreage is considered prime farmland
Albert Nickerson leaned on the back of his Ford pickup and watched his brother-in-law pilot the giant harvester
Nickerson is a contractor and Republican county commissioner
His blue eyes welled with tears when he talked about how much this place means to him
I mean this is just right up there with the next thing to be important for me,” he said
Kent County is Maryland’s smallest by population
the county’s sprawling farms and multigenerational farmers give it a frozen-in-time feel
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But a pandemic influx of wealthy outsiders
remote workers and early retirees from liberal enclaves like Washington
Baltimore and Philadelphia — native Kent Countians might call them “chicken-neckers” or “come-heres” — is nudging the county’s electorate to the left
the first time since 1986 that a Democrat in the governor’s race prevailed
and President Joe Biden won the county in 2020
after residents had picked Republicans in the previous two elections
the presidential race pits former President Donald Trump and his “Make America Great Again” against Vice President Kamala Harris’s “A New Way Forward.” In places like Kent County
These communities are trying to balance tradition and progress without a clear roadmap for the future
Kent County’s newcomers are mostly moving to Chestertown
the county seat nestled on the banks of the Chester River
With slightly more than 5,500 residents and a bustling downtown with shops
restaurants and a glut of 18th century homes to rival Annapolis
Chestertown might as well be the poster child for the small-town America that moneyed city dwellers sought out during the heights of COVID-19
or they commute back to their urban centers for work
said she has split time between Chestertown and D.C
It does not take many people to swing an election here (Biden won the county by 134 votes)
and the population is so small it doesn’t much factor into statewide or national contests
But the blue shift could have wide-ranging implications for local matters
“I think that Kent County is a microcosm of the entire country,” Nickerson said
“I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to travel to some places
and we were talking about the same exact thing going on out there.”
The ranch manager spoke of billionaires flooding in and trying to change the area’s way of life
Fewer people work on farms in Kent County than in years past as automation increases
And most everything that’s grown isn’t even for human consumption — it’s used for chicken feed
Kent County is surrounded on three sides by water
and people used to make a living off the Chesapeake Bay
The most reliable employers are the Dixon Valve & Coupling Company
The public school system has seen declining enrollment
the county recorded a population loss for the first time since the 1940 Census
The county’s median age is nearly a decade older than Maryland’s
and fewer people have college degrees than the state average
The county’s overall changes can seem at odds with the scene in Chestertown
a classic car meet and a farmers market that shut down the town’s main street
genders and sexual orientations are welcome hang in windows
Where Trump signs dominate the countryside
it’s not uncommon to see downtown homes displaying yard signs supporting Harris
an Irishman who arrived in Chestertown by way of D.C
A former journalist who had a second career working in international relations
McDowell moved to town in 2017 when he and his wife purchased an 18th century home that was first owned by a member of the Continental Army who had slaves
Seated in an armchair in his meticulously preserved
McDowell — amid plenty of asides about national politics and his views of the Republican county commission (the three deplorables
he called them) — described a sort of intellectual elite that make up many of Chestertown’s historic homeowners
USAID [United States Agency for International Development]
McDowell said the appeal of Chestertown for these older elites is its unique blend of an urban environment and tight-knit community
But their presence has a drawback for the non-elites: The cost of housing has skyrocketed in recent years
McDowell and his wife bought their home for $368,000
A Zillow estimate suggests the house would sell for twice that now
Kent County has the sixth-highest property tax rate of any county in Maryland
the property tax rate for town residents is greater than that for Annapolis residents
McDowell said he and his wife have an annual tax bill of $8,000
High property values and relative population density have given the town an outsized importance in the county’s economic picture
a town native and director of policy and land use at the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy
said Chestertown makes up 1% of Kent County’s land but accounts for more than one-quarter of the population and one-fifth of its wealth based on property values alone
Scarcity plus increased demand has left many younger
Bailey lives in a three-bedroom home outside of the downtown neighborhood with his wife and two children
but realistically cannot afford it given the market
The conveniences of living in town outweigh the desire for greater space out in the county
meaning he’s planning to stay put and make do
Many others in that spot might leave the area altogether
She’s a math teacher at the county’s only middle school
and works a second job as a server at The Retriever
a restaurant that sells both its version of a Big Mac and high-end liquor
She lives with her mom a few miles out of town in order to save money
Millennials like Penny who work in town tend to share the older
But they question whether they have a future in Kent County
a manager at an independent bookstore called The Bookplate on the town’s main drag
had until recently been living with her partner and their children in a rental her parents own
She and her partner scraped and just bought a house
Jones said her day-to-day finances and Chestertown’s cost of living doesn’t leave her with much of a cushion to build retirement savings
She said Kent County’s younger residents who stay are doing so in spite of financial reasons to leave
Kent County’s politics don’t neatly break down as urban versus rural or wealthy versus working-class
The county has voted fairly erratically in local races
The entire county commission is Republican — although commission President Ronald Fithian was a Democrat until 2020
when he felt the party had gone too far left and “left me behind” — and so is the sheriff
But the clerk of court and state’s attorney are both Democrats
That has more to do with the intimate nature of a small place than a citizenry’s desire to have a bipartisan government at the local level
director of civic engagement at Washington College
a private liberal arts school in Chestertown that helps give the town its buzzy feel
He said the “manufactured divisions” in state and national politics do not hold up at the hyperlocal level
At least not when a voter and an elected official are liable to run into each other at the post office or the grocery store with some regularity
“It kind of forces people to be decent to one another
Examples of the civility Nugent pointed to abound
Kent County Democratic Club President Bill Flook said the former Republican sheriff
was one of the “more enlightened” sheriffs on the Eastern Shore
Paul Tue III is co-founder of the Black-led nonprofit Minary’s Dream Alliance
which plays a vital role for people of color in a county that is more than 80% white
has lived in Kent County for 17 years and said local politics can be “very much good old boyish.”
“I don’t want to throw the politicians under the bus,” he said
then I think it would be impossible for you to feel heard or represented.”
Working-class Black residents might not be able to name a single local official
because it’s hard to get too involved in electoral politics when they’re “catching hell” trying to put food on the table or trying to make rent
at least compared to other Eastern Shore counties
Colleagues from across the Chester River have told Tue that they think Chestertown is the most progressive place east of the Bay
“I didn’t feel this place was very progressive when I first got here
but you have people on the outside [of the county] looking in saying
‘I wish I could do that in my community,” he said of Minary’s Dream Alliance
Tue attributed the progressive turn in part to the wealthy people who move to town and want to get involved in local politics
“They’ve gone out intentionally to form relationships with people who are not in their tax bracket,” he said
But he also feels the squeeze caused by their presence
Political progressiveness does no good if people cannot find a way to balance the desire to preserve the charming small-town feel with a need for economic development and growth
This is often where Nickerson’s thoughts land
he pointed to some of the county’s markers from his 55 years of living there
There’s the former dairy farm where he worked as a high school student
There’s the former general store in the town of Still Pond
which stopped being an actual town a long time ago
and there’s the graveyard where his ancestors’ headstones are the oldest in it
a short-ish country lane that dead-ends at the Chesapeake Bay
He and his wife own almost all the land to the left
which dates to the 1700s and sits on a knoll
Follow the path farther and you come down to the backside of his property
through a stand of trees and into a clearing with a dilapidated cottage and a pier that juts into Still Pond Creek
With the help of the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy
Nickerson obtained an easement that essentially preserves his farm as open space in perpetuity
for the next 1,000 years you will be able to come down here and see Still Pond Creek,” he said
For as long as he is in office — he’s in his second year of his first term — he also has a say in what happens to Kent County
But how do you balance change and progress against the desire to hold onto what used to be
It’s a question that keeps him awake at night
“I wish you had the answer for me,” Nickerson said
Lee O. Sanderlin
Lee.Sanderlin@thebaltimorebanner.com
Sanderlin is an Enterprise Reporter for The Baltimore Banner
he worked at The Baltimore Sun as a reporter covering a wide array of topics
including stories about abusive politicians
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