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July

2013

FREE

SUMMER PLAYLIST

SOBO GARDEN

Food TRUckSMR. RAIN'S

THE VoIcE oF SoUTHERN BALTIMoRE

2 SoBo Voice June-July 2013

www.sobovoice.com 54 SoBo Voice June-July 2013

SoBoVoIcE.coM

Publisher's Note 4

What's Happening? 6Food Trucks 8Hugs 1 2Mr. Rain's 1 4 Summer Playlist 1 6Summer Drinks 1 8SoBo Garden 2 0Runnebaum Report 2 2 Art 24 City Jazz 26Antiques 2 8Pets 30 Sun Safety 32 Fitness 34Health 38

coNTENTS

PUBLISHER’S NoTE

ScAN ME

coVER PHoTo BY BILL MANGHAMBill Mangham, an artist & Federal Hill resident since 1999, is a co-founder with his partner Will Runnebaum and Realtor at Marcus-Boyd Realty. Bill has always had an interest in art and discovered a love for photography with the dawn of the digital camera age and through his work photographing property as a real estate agent. “South Baltimore has a world of photographic possibili-ties, whether old brick or unusual architecture, flowers, animals & trees, and is always changing,” he says. “I always look for something unexpected or interest-ing and try to put my idea into the frame.” When Bill is not in the office he can be found zipping around with clients in one of the Marcus-Boyd buyer buggies, or throwing the ball for his dogs, Coco and Ace, at Federal Hill Park.

It is with great excitement that I publish this, the first issue of our sixth year of publication. For those first years we provid-ed door-to-door distribution from Otterbein to Fort McHen-ry. With this issue the neighborhoods of Fells Point, Butch-ers Hill, Canton and Patterson Park will all begin receiving SoBo Voice on their doorstep as well. SoBo Voice will now print over 20,000 copies and will increase our readership to over 60,000! It seems appropriate that our cover shows “Free Hugs,” as that is what I and my editorial staff feel we are offering to these new neighborhoods. We are getting out and about this Summer and so should you, because there are just too many great things to take advantage of in Balti-more City this Summer to stay inside.

Flicks From the Hill is among the best reasons to get out on a Summer evening. Where else can you watch an Alfred Hitchcock or Coen brothers film, free of charge, nestled onto a picnic blanket as the sun sets, while enjoying a cold beverage?

Baltimore’s food trucks have created a whole new way to dine out downtown. From chicken-n-waffles to falafel and crepes, food trucks offer delicious, inexpensive and innova-tive cuisine as they move around the city.

And nothing beats having your own private oasis in the city, someplace to enjoy a morning cup of coffee surrounded by greenery (or greens!) that you planted yourself.

This issue of SoBo Voice has all these and more to help get your Summer underway.

But we’re betting that for most readers, the favorite outdoor Summer activity is stooping, a chance to re-connect with the neighbors we don’t see during the dark winter months over a beer, sidewalk chalk for the kids and a few discreet laughs at visitors attempting to parallel park. It’s these con-nections that make city living so great and help define the neighborhoods we live in and keep our communities tight.

Here’s to a great Summer, full of flicks, food and friends.

Cheers,

Will RunnebaumPublisher


www.sobovoice.com 7

Founder & Publisher Will Runnebaum Editor-in-Chief Claire R. Mullins Executive Editor Emily Parks Creative Director Michelle Preast

Contributors: Marie Gallagher Rob Goodman, D.V.M. Chad Greenberg Dr. Lori Linda Lutz, M.D. Claire R. Mullins Emily Parks Will Runnebaum Jane Seebold Andrea Shelby Courtney Smith Daniel Toft Ann Wiker Photos: Bill Mangham Emily Parks Accounting Rebecca May Offices 926 Light Street, 1st Floor — Rear Baltimore, MD 21230 [email protected] www.sobovoice.com

Sobo Voice is an independently owned and oper-ated bi-monthly magazine serving the residents and neighborhoods of Southern Baltimore. The publication prints 20,000 copies of each issue and professionally distributes to 15,000 households and offers a 5,000 bulk copy distribution to the high rise residential build-ings and businesses of the South Baltimore Peninsula. “SoBo Voice” is a trademark of Sobo Voice, LLC. Sobo Voice is protected by Copyright 2013, Sobo Voice, LLC and may not be reproduced in any manner without written consent. Articles published in Sobo Voice are works of journalism and not the official policy of the owners, editors or publisher of Sobo Voice or of Sobo Voice, LLC. Articles about products do not constitute endorsements. Sobo Voice cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited material. All material contained in each issue has been checked to the best of our abil-ity and is deemed to be accurate. Sobo Voice shall be held harmless for all creative and editorial content, its independent distribution service, as well as any and all claims, statements and offerings made by its advertis-ers. Sobo Voice assumes no responsibility for the con-tent of advertisements. Copyright 2013 SoBo Voice, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Some Vector Graphics by VectorOpenStock.com

S BWhat's happening

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JuNEFarmers’ Market at the BMiEvery Saturday 9am – 1pm Through the fall. With free parking in the Baltimore Museum of Industry’s lot, and farm-fresh produce, breads, meats, and more, this Saturday market is not to be missed.www.thebmi.org

Bach Concert series season FinaleSunday, June 2 at 4pmThe 25th anniversary season comes to an exciting close at Christ Lutheran Church. We hope to see you there! Tickets required. www.bachinbaltimore.org

Jazz & Blues Wine & art FestivalSunday, June 2, 11am – 7pmFeaturing great live music on two stages, arts & crafts, the Boordy Wine Garden, food & drink and our always popular Artist Alley. Kids’ Kross Street will feature the usual moon bounces, toddler play area, crafts, and face painting, organized and staffed by community parent volunteers and financed by Federal Hill Main Street. You’ll also find some Urban Pirates, gymnastics performances, kid-friendly cooking lessons, and lots more. And, it’s all free! www.historicfederalhill.org

Monster Jam 2013 MonsterTrucks - Saturday, June 8, 7pmThe biggest Monster Jam superstars will unleash big air and car-crushing carnage when they hit Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium this summer with the Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam Path of Destruction tour. www.ticketmaster.com

Family night at the BMiThursday, June 13 4pm – 6pmWondering what to do with the kids before dinner? Bring the family and take part in tours, crafts, movies, and more! Kids can learn to sew a button and create a decorative patch. Children 2+: $5, accompanying adults: free, single adults: $10. www.thebmi.org

the gathering BaltimoreFood truck RallyFriday, June 14 at the BMI and Friday, June 28 & July 26 at McHenry Row 5pm – 10pm Numerous food trucks converge for The Gathering: food, live entertainment and much more! Details and pricing at www.facebook.com/BmoreFoodTrucksor www.thegatheringbaltimore.com

the Legwarmers at Rams head LiveSaturday, June 15th 9pm doors open at 7pmThe ultimate 80s tribute band!! From the Simmons electric drum kit to the checkered vans and skinny ties – the Legwarmers are the Eighties you remember. www.ramsheadlive.com

third thursdays in Federal hillThursday, June 20 6-8pmGalleries, shops & boutiques: specials, refresh-ments, fun! www.historicfederalhill.org

summer socials at West shorePark - Friday, June 21 5pm – 8pmLive music by Strykers Posse, a Waterfront Kids Play Area, food trucks, beer, wine and mixed drinks and the Walter Sondheim interactive fountain! Bring a blanket and enjoy the eve-ning at West Shore Park, located between the Maryland Science Center and Baltimore Visitor Center. FREE. www.waterfrontpartnership.org



Instead of trying to choose one place to eat dinner on a week-end evening, why not enjoy a fabulous food experience of several different cuisines in a beautiful outdoor setting? The Gathering, Baltimore’s weekly traveling food truck rally, has launched its 2013 season to the delight of Baltimore area foodies.

Food trucks are coming together around the state this Summer and fall to showcase a smorgasbord of cuisines with food truck ven-dors such as GrrChe, Kommie Pig, The Smoking Swine, Souper Freak, Woody’s Taco Island, Kooper’s Chowhound and many more.

The Gathering is the brain-child of Damian Bohager, who launched the Gathering with only six trucks participating in 2011. Currently, between 30 and 40 trucks show up at a Gathering along with Gatherings planned in Harford and Anne Arundel counties.

In addition to supporting local food truck vendors, attendees can take pride in the fact that a portion of each event’s proceeds go to support local non-profit organizations as each event is designed to benefit one or more 501c3 charities. What better way to support the community while tantalizing taste buds at the same time? Past beneficiaries include The United Way, Art With a Heart, Sinai Hospital, Bikemore, The Woman’s Industrial Exchange,

The American Heart Association and BARCS.

In addition to providing a great dining, drinking, hugging and music experience, Bohager loves that bringing the Gathering to the different neighborhoods around Baltimore City and Maryland allows an opportunity for those neighborhoods to shine. “What I like about the Gathering is that it is about celebrating these neigh-borhoods,” he says. “We try to go in and promote the local busi-nesses.” He still marvels at the success of a Gathering at Penn Station. “It was such a fun thing to do,” he says. “To see people come right off the trains and partake in the food trucks, have a beer and enjoy live music.”

The Gathering meets right in SoBo’s backyard when the trucks gather in parking lots at McHenry Row and the Baltimore Museum of Industry (BMI.) Baltimore and DC food trucks will also square off against each other again in this year’s TASTE OF TWO CITIES, a food truck duel between Baltimore and DC food trucks, all taking place in the Inner Harbor at Rash Field on June 1.

Plan your next Friday or Saturday night feast, and be sure to “like” them on Facebook to receive up to the minute information and details.

BaltimoreFoodies Congregate atThe GaTherinG

By Emily Parks

June 1 – TASTE OF TWO CITIES

June 8 – Reisterstown

June 14 - BMI

June 15 – Annapolis

June 21 – Keswick Castle

June 22 – Dragon Boat Races

June 28 – McHenry Row

July 12 – Keswick Castle

July 26 – McHenry Row

August 2 – Keswick Castle

August 9 – BMI

August 30 – McHenry Row

September 13 – Keswick Castle

September 15 – Harford County

September 20 – Stratford University

September 27 – McHenry Row

October 11 – BMI

October 18 – Keswick Castle

October 25 -- McHenry Row

November 1 – McHenry Row

SCHeDUle


JulyFederal hill neighborhood association Fourth of July paradeJuly 4, at 10amThe parade begins at the 800 block of William St. and marches down Montgomery St. to Federal Hill Park.

Visionary pets on parade!Thursday July 4 10am (9:30am Pet Registration)Dress your pet & strut your stuff. Animal fun! Animal prizes! Trophies awarded for Best Costume, Most Patriotic, Most Visionary Pet, Owner & Pet look-alikes, Visionary Pet Tricks

and more! Friendly pets of ALL kinds are welcome. The best dog-gone parade in town! Followed by the Pet Talent (Or Not) Show! And Sit, Stay for a rousing game of pet musical chairs! Pets must be leashed or carried. www.avam.org

Fireworks in the inner harborJuly 4, 7pm-10pmCelebrate the Fourth of July holiday in Baltimore’s historic Inner Harbor! The Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration features live music starting at 7pm with U.S. Naval Academy Band Electric Brigade per-forming Top 40 tunes, followed by an amazing 18-minute fireworks show at 9:30pm. Come

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S BWhat's happening early with a blanket to get a good seat on

Federal Hill! www.harboreastbaltimore.com

african american FestivalJuly 6 & 7Celebrate black history with an eclectic mix of regional and nationally-known entertainers, including top soul and R&B recording artists, educational exhibits, arts and crafts, food and children’s activities. Saturday from noon-10pm and Sunday from noon-8pm at M&T Bank Stadium on Lots B and C between Oriole Park at Camden Yards. FREE.www.africanamericanfestival.net

summer socials at West shore parkFriday, July 26 5pm – 8pmLive music by the Kelly Bell Band, a Waterfront Kids Play Area, food trucks, beer, wine and mixed drinks and the Walter Sondheim inter-active fountain! Bring a blanket and enjoy the evening at West Shore Park, located between the Maryland Science Center and Baltimore Visitor Center. FREE. www.waterfrontpartnership.org

summer arts program at aVaM!Four one-week sessions Tuesdays-Fridays July 9 through August 2 10am – 3pm daily. Each one-week summer studio session is packed with hands on activities inspired by visionary artists. Spend time exploring the museum, col-laborate with visiting artists, and create one-of-a-kind visionary art projects. Programs vary with sessions ranging for children in grades 3-12. Cost per student, per week is $250/regu-lar and $200/AVAM members. Need-based scholarships available. www.avam.org

Flicks From the hill!Thursdays: July 11-August 22 FREE screenings at 9pm on Federal HillGrab a blanket, picnic under the stars, and watch a great film selected inspired by AVAM’s current exhibition, THE ART OF STORYTELLING: Lies, Enchantment, Humor &Truth! The Hughes Family Outdoor Theater features seating for more than a thousand on the natural amphitheater formed by Federal Hill; a 30-foot screen held from above by a Giant Golden Hand; a twinkling view of the city; and an amazing community experience that is FREE. www.avam.org


In addition to partaking in fabu-lous food, drinks and music at The Gathering, Baltimore’s weekly traveling food truck experience, be sure to get your free hug. Free hugs are brought to you by Daniel Toft, a preschool teacher and urban gardener who can be found at this amazing outdoor event. The Gathering is Baltimore’s travel-ing food truck festival held around town (usually on Fridays but often on Saturdays) to benefit a local cause and showcase Baltimore’s gourmet food trucks and neighborhoods. It takes place completely outdoors and features area vendors and community non-profit organizations. Gatherings happen all around the state and highlight city neighborhoods such as Harbor East, Hampden/Remington, South Baltimore/Federal Hill with expansion this year into Harford and Anne Arundel coun-ties.

So, as Toft spends his daytime hours tending to and hugging his preschool students, he thought grown-ups might enjoy free hugs, too. “I was approached by the organizer of the Gathering, Damian Bohager, to give out free hugs,” says Toft. “Damian asked a friend of mine if he knew anyone who would be great at giving out free hugs and my friend recommended me to Damian.” He loves his role as a hugger at the

Gathering as he comes from a long line of huggers. “I come from a big hugging family,” he explains. “You cannot walk in the door without first being embraced by everyone in the house.”

A Goucher College grad and avid hiker, Toft moved back to Baltimore after making sev-eral intensive treks across the American West including hiking the 215-mile John Muir trail, which starts in Yosemite National Park and ends at the highest peak in continen-tal United States, Mount Whitney at 14, 496 feet. It was

while he was in the Northwest and stay-ing with friends who grew their own food that he learned about growing food and about sustainability as a way of life. He brought this love of growing your own food back to Baltimore. “I was able to install a garden at a house that provides salad greens daily for three to four people on just a 15’ x 15’ garden plot,” he says. “Having control over where your food comes from can start right in your front and back yard.”

Toft shares his love of gardening with his students at Bolton Hill Nursery School where he serves as the school’s garden educator. At the school he has constructed an elaborate garden in the school courtyard. He used recycled wood to build several beds and helps the children plant everything from tomatoes and peppers to sweet-smell-ing herbs.

“Everything you do in the garden is a metaphor for life,” he says. “Kids are like sprouts as they grow and are recep-tive to all that’s around.” He strongly believes good food needs to be acces-sible for sustenance as well as creating a community. “I love to teach about sustainable practices,” he explains.

A native of Frederick, Toft appreci-ates the strong sense of community and camaraderie that he has found in Baltimore. He loves how easy it is in Baltimore to build a network to help further an idea, be it a food truck gath-ering or to promote the importance of sustainable gardening. “If you have an idea, you don’t need a large network to make it happen,” he says. “It’s been so easy to meet one or two more people who can help you grow your idea.”

Toft is excited to bring two of his favorite activities on Baltimore: hugs and sustainable gardening. He loves how his hugs promote a sense of good well-being to the community and is looking forward to spreading his gar-dening message. “Food needs to be more accessible and it is easier than people think to grow your own food,” he explains. “Food is at the center of creating community.” Especially when it is served with a hug.

Still not sure that it’s possible to grow your own food in small spaces? Check out Danny's article on gardening in our urban landscape to learn more!

By Emily Parks

Promoting Well-beingwith a Garden and a Hug


On a dark and rainy night I made my way to Mr. Rain’s Fun House, located in the American Visionary Arts Museum. Given the name, I had expected a wacky and unconventional experience but found a warm and inviting atmosphere, great service and really good food.

The menu is indeed offbeat and whimsical, but far from bizarre. The flight of sangrias is fun and only gets better as you make your way through them. Granted, sangria might seem an unconventional choice for a cool night, but the optimist in me was looking forward to warmer, sunnier days, and I am never one to shy away from a good cocktail. In an era when a flight of wines seems a tad passé, sampling three very different sangrias—boasting gin, cucumber vodka and one topped off with Natty Boh—is an unexpected and fresh alternative.

The menu offers an eclectic assortment of choices. Not just fish, but pan-roasted trout served with fennel. Not just shrimp, but prawns ensconced in kimchi. For those seeking something less meaty, there are black-eyed pea cakes, an unusual but delicious meat-free option. The potato and leek soup was a fan favorite among my companions that night—three of the four of us ordered it and practically swiped fingertips in the near-empty bowls to get the last remaining drops. The menu feels very contemporary American; a

celebration of who we are now as a nation, with touches of Latino, the Deep South, Asian cuisine and other influences found throughout.

Every table was occupied the weeknight we were there, yet despite the crowd it was a relatively quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Diners seemed happy to be in a beautiful space, eating lovely, interesting food served by an attentive and friendly staff.

My only regret about the place is that it took me so long to get there—it opened in 2009 and immediately got rave reviews among the locals for their cocktails and eclectic menu, and became an immediate favorite among local carnivores. But the same care that went into choosing the liquor and cuts of meat is applied to the exceptional side dishes and beautiful desserts too. The whole experience felt like someone was paying attention and sweating the small stuff to ensure a great dining experience.

With warm weather, now is the perfect time to pay Mr. Rain’s Fun House a visit and dine on their outdoor terrace. And on the way out, be sure to check yourself out in the body-distorting mirrors that make one look alternatively three feet then eight feet tall. It is after all, a very fun house.

Claire R. Mullins is Editor in Chief and a big fan of supporting local restaurants.

Brings Sunshineto Federal Hill

By Claire R. Mullins

Mr. ain’R s


1. “Delicate”- Can’t HangTo start it off, I suggest this local Baltimore reggae group. Not only because of their local hometown, but these dudes can play. After a recent break-up of the band I saw them at a reunion at the 8x10 in Federal Hill, and it was an awesome show. Check their album “Blood, Sweat and Beers” for more tunes by these local artists.

2. “Sunshine- Live”- Matisyahu This song has beautiful lyrics and a very catchy melody. Matisyahu combines his reggae roots with talented beat boxing. His newest album “Spark Seeker: Acoustic Sessions” is a must have. If you want to see Matisyahu live he will be at Rams Head on July 9 this summer.

3. “I Love It”- Icona Pop feat. Charli XCX“I Love It” is a great song for any party or event this summer. It is an electronic song that has an addictive sound to it that will make you just want to dance.

4. “We are the 21st Century Ambassadors of Peace & Magic”- FoxygenThis song is for all of the Indie folks out there. Recently, I have become

a big time fan of the Los Angeles native band. They remind me of the Rolling Stones and a combination of modern Indie Rock. They played at the Merriweather Post Pavillion during Sweetlife Music Festival and I enjoyed them a lot.

5. “Mary Jane’s Last Breakdown”- Keller & The KeelsKeller Williams is an unbelievable guitarist. Added on with The Keels they sound great together and give a really nice folk cover of Tom Petty’s “Mary Jane’s Last Dance”.

6. “Baltimore Blues No. 1”- Deer TickDeer Tick is an alternative country/indie folk band from Providence, Rhode Island. Their laid back tune “Baltimore Blues No. 1” is perfect for listening when you’re relaxing from a long day at the beach. Not to mention, the local title of the song makes it that much better.

7. “Little Numbers”-BOYThe girls from BOY make any rainy day feel sunny. “Little Numbers” will brighten up any sad day.

8. “Sweet Nothing”- Calvin Harris ft. Florence Welch (Diplo + Grandtheft Remix)I am not the biggest house music fan, but this Diplo + Grandtheft remix of Calvin Harris’s “Sweet Nothing” is definitely a song that will be stuck in your head all day after a party the night before. Play this at any summer party of yours and I guarantee your party will be a 10 on the scale.

9. “Don’t”- PhoenixThe alternative rock band, Phoenix, sounds great again in their brand new album “Bankrupt!” “Don’t” is a hit from their recently released album. After seeing them live at the Merriweather Post Pavillion they showed me that this song can make everyone in the crowd feel happy. Great for the long car rides this summer.

10. “Other Side”- RebelutionRebelution is a reggae band from Santa Barbara, California and is one of my favorite bands out there. Perfect music for chilling at the beach, and is bound to bring “good vibes.” Check out their 2007 album “Courage to Grow” for more reggae beats by Rebelution.

Top 15 Summer

Jams PlaylistBy Chad Greenberg, graduating senior

at Boys’ Latin and music aficionado

Summer songs.They are the songs that you blast in the car radio with the windows down, play on the iHome at the beach, and bring back memories of summer parties and festivities. Music has this special ability to connect with the listener, to give the listener a powerful experience - an experience of harmonized chords and beats-- that run chills through the bones when that favorite song is playing on the radio. Enough with my hippy ideologies and on to the summer of 2013’s “Top 15 Summer Jams.” Some of the tunes I suggest are new and old, from reggae legends to local bands, and from Justin Bieber to Rebelution - just kidding, there is no Justin Bieber on this list. My playlist of summer jams are guaranteed for some fun in the sun, or for chillin’ under the stars with your soul mate. On to the list...



Scarborough Fair’s StRAwBERRy BASIl lEMONADEBarry Werner and Jeff Finlay, Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast, South Charles Street

This light and bright tasting drink should be a highlight of your summer parties and barbeques. The sweetness of the berries plays very well with the soothing and herbaceous green notes of the basil leaves afloat in the glass. With ease you can create a drink that tastes unique and is very special.

2 quarts pink lemonade 2 pints strawberries, hulled and sliced (plus 6 to 10 additional for garnish) 18 fresh basil leaves (reserve 6 for garnish)

Pour 1 cup lemonade into blender or food processor with strawberries and basil; pulse until basil is finely chopped and strawberries are liquefied into a smooth liquid with small bits of berry and flecks of basil. (If needed, add more lemonade to the mixture to ensure smoothness.)

Pour mixture into remaining lemonade and stir well. Serve with garnish of remaining sliced strawberries and whole basil leaves. Keep in refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Makes ten 8-oz servings.

Vesper’s MAGIcIANSpencer Horsman, Featured Entertainer, Illusions Magic Bar and Lounge, South Charles Street

A modern take on the classic and original James Bond martini. But, still “shaken, not stirred.”

2 oz Blue Coat gin 1 oz Belvedere Intense 100 proof vodka 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc

Shake well. Strain into martini glass. Add twist of lemon. Voila!

Smokey cypRESSJenna RobisonBluegrass Tavern, 1500 S. Hanover st

Smokey Cypress: 1.5 oz Alipus Mezcal 1 oz Aperol .5 oz rosemary syrup* 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice splash of lemon juice Rim a rocks glass with a blend of sugar and salt. Combine all liquid ingredients into a shaker, shake and strain over fresh ice in the rocks glass. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary. *Rosemary syrup: bring one cup of water with 1 bunch of rosemary to a boil, remove rosemary and dissolve one cup of sugar into the water and let cool.

SoBo Café wINE MOJItOIngredients: 1 Lime 6 Mint leaves 1 Tbsp sugar 2 Tbsp Simple Syrup 7 Oz Pinot Grigio Club Soda

Muddle mint, 3 lime wedges, sugar and simple syrup in a mixing tin. Top with ice, add Pinot Grigio, cover w/ strainer cap and shake vigorously. Transfer entire contents to wine glass and top with splash of club soda, garnish with lime wedge and enjoy.

A CoolSummertAStE Of

wIth thE wEAthER hEAtING up, thESEDRINkS ARE pERfEct fOR cOOlING DOwN. ENJOy!

Some recipes are from the cookbook Federal Hill Cooks!, courtesy of Federal Hill Main Street and available at www.historicfederalhill.org.


A Perspective on Vertical Gardening

By Daniel Toft, local food enthusiast

No Space and All your Greens:

no gloves. Spending time with your soil and working it is one way to add love into this project and build a connection to the food you are about to grow.

SeedsGrowing from seed is a beautiful experience. A bounty of analogies flow into my mind, but I will spare you them and just say that the extra time it takes in comparison to transplants is worth it. The only transplants I buy are herbs at the farmer’s market. Cultivating them from seed is more difficult than greens. Around the same time you decide to install a garden, Google: Seed Savers Exchange or Johnny’s Selected Seeds and order your lettuce (looseleaf), arugula, kale and/or chard online. Be sure to choose whichever varieties

appeal to you, because there is no right or wrong answer. Two of my favorite lettuces from Seed Saver’s are Webb’s Wonderful and Grandpa Admire’s.

PlantingWith a prepared garden and seeds in hand, use your finger and poke into the soil about an inch, and repeat every 4 inches. Place about three seeds in each place and lightly cover with soil. Seeds do not need a lot of water. As they sprout and continue to grow, the amount of water they need will increase, especially in the months of June, and July. Speaking of months, when is the opportune time to seed? For spring, put seeds in anywhere from late March to the end April. This will last until mid to late July when

greens succumb to Baltimore’s lovely humidity. Let the soil rest a week or two, and in August, seed again for your Fall harvest.

HarvestNow that your greens are lush, you can start pluckin’. Use your fingers and pinch at the bottom of stems on the larger leaves. As you pick leaves, more will grow. Do not linger on one plant until it is bare, pick a few leaves from each plant as needed. Remember to breathe and smile.

Eat.Contact Daniel at: [email protected] for consultation only.

This morning I slipped through my bathroom window onto the fire escape. The landing is 2ft. x 4ft. with a ladder that goes up to the roof and a steep set of stairs that cascades to the lower level. Along this narrow cast iron scaffold, I grow enough greens and herbs to add to my meals every day. This morning, like every morning I pick either: lettuce, arugula, kale or chard with basil and chives for breakfast. It is exactly what I need: a garden that is immediately accessible with minimal maintenance and a supplemental calm in my longing for rural life. I wish I could grow everything from tomatoes and beets, to berries and eggplants, but realistically it is a full time job to have a successful and maintained garden. So in the name of practicality and socializing, the Waverly farmer’s market will more than suffice for all my other fruit and vegetable needs.

The urban landscape lacks an open ground area, but we do have a lot of walls. When thinking about your personal garden, think vertical. Think about rain gutters and PVC pipes. Think modestly. Do you have a backyard plot with a fence, or no yard but a fire escape? No matter the layout of where you live, with a little bit of creativity and patience, sun, healthy soil and water; greens and herbs will prosper. No green thumb needed.

First Things FirstQuestions to ask yourself: • Do you have a spot that gets around four hours of sunlight a day? • How much greens and herbs do you want? • Keep it simple at first. Growing food is a slow process. Your first endeavor should be thought of as a trial. • Estimated about six heads of lettuce will feed one person four times a week. • When do you have a full day to install your garden?

A Brief Tangent: Growing food in plastic is not ideal because of health concerns revolving around the potential of chemicals leaking into the soil and having an effect on plants. Taking this into consideration, ask yourself: what are the other options? They are limited without this turning into an expensive project. If you decide to repurpose materials, know that they are more health hazardous. What can be done is to make sure that every other aspect is done with the intention of health in mind.

StructureRain gutters are easy to install onto a fence, window sill, railing or the edge of a patio/balcony. All of these structures are usually made out of wood or a like composite and a rain gutter can be attached with screws. PVC pipes are great for standing up. Perhaps rain gutters and pipes will work! Get out the measuring tape and see how long the pieces need to be in order to fit your grow space.

Most hardware stores will cut material down to the needed length free, or for a minimal charge. The PVC pipes will need to be capped and drilled with a 2 inch hole saw that can attach to any drill. Be sure to drill a ton of small holes underneath for drainage. When attaching to any structure that is not a wall or off the ground, make sure to have the fastening straps in place before and an extra set up of hands to help. All of these pieces will be at most hardware stores. If you do not have time to go to more than one place, call in advance. Larger outlets, such as: Home Depot and Lowes will undoubtedly supply all structural materials. With that being said; if able, support local!

SoilThe only way to grow healthy food is to have healthy soil, free of chemicals. Meaning NO Miracle Gro and for that matter, pretty much no soil sold at Lowes, Home Depot and most hardware stores. You want your soil to be alive, rich with microorganisms. There are a limited number of nurseries in Baltimore. I recommend Green Fields on the corner of Northern Parkway and Falls Road, and Watson’s Garden Center just outside of the beltway on York Road. There is no math to tell you how much to buy, but make an educated guess. Compile a cart of organic garden soil and compost in equal parts, and a small bag of sand. If by now you are getting into it, think about peat moss (aids in water retention) and/or organic perlite (lightens mixture and has a neutral pH). Do not go overboard. Go home, and in whatever way works best, mix it all together. Do this with your hands,


I met Lucia Siam last fall when I interviewed her for a teaching position. She impressed me right away as being very open, honest and comfortable with herself. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Maryland Institute College of Art and a Master of Professional Studies from Pratt Institute in Art Therapy. In our conversations, we talked a lot about the healing quality of art and about an online presence called Planet Awkward.

Planet Awkward was created by Lucia and her partner PJ. It is an online presence that anyone can access by logging onto http://www.planetawkward.com. Lucia described it as “a world within a world where vision and exploration is nurtured,” she says. “It is a world where

people can find strength in their perceived weaknesses and feel comfortable and at ease in their own skin. On Earth, people avoid feeling awkward, but on Planet Awkward it is embraced as a part of actively living a life.” She adds “On Planet Awkward, people experience the power of embodying beauty through creating peace, joy and love in their lives despite what might be going on in the bigger Earth world around them. In becoming an Awk, a person learns that through ‘Art of the Heart’ and the power of thought, daily living can become more simple and, yet, more whole.”

There will be an opportunity to apply for an Awk passport, starting this summer. There is the ability to comment on the

blog and the site will become much more interactive in the months ahead. She explains “We want people to interact with us. We have plans to have an on-line art gallery and shop. There will be times when we hold contests with prizes offered for winners.” She goes on to add that Planet Awkward

ArtBy Ann Wiker, owner of Art Exposure, Inc.

is in the beginning stages but has big plans for it and look forward to continuing its development with the hope of helping others.

Lucia’s art includes paintings, mosaics, clayworks and more. She feels fortunate that she is comfortable working in different mediums and says that she is constantly creating: doodling while in meetings, sketching ideas of 3dimensional work, and conceptualizing new paintings. She is inspired by viewing others’ art, by religion,

by marshmallow Peeps®, by grief and mourning customs of different cultures, Mexican folk art, Ancestral celebrations, travel and reading. She hopes that when viewing her art others can learn more about their own creative ability and strive for balance in their own lives.

She is currently teaching afterschool art classes through Art Exposure www.artexposureinc.com at Federal Hill Prep and at Francis Scott Key Elem/Middle.

as Therapy plANEt AwkwARD IS

IN thE BEGINNING StAGES But hAS BIG plANS fOR It AND lOOk fORwARD tO

cONtINuING ItS DEVElOpMENt wIth thE hOpE Of

hElpING OthERS


This year’s Federal Hill Jazz & Blues Wine & Art Festival will be bigger and better than ever! Come on down on Sunday, June 2, 11 am to 7 pm, for this fun and FREE event that everyone has something for everyone. It all takes place in the heart of Federal Hill, on South Charles Street, between Hamburg and West, and on Cross Street next to Cross Street Market.

This festival is known for its great music, and this year is no exception. We’re excited to have BONERAMA and HONEY ISLAND SWAMP BAND, right off the New Orleans JazzFest stage! Also appearing will be Jamie McLean Band, local favorite Cris Jacobs Band, Speakers of the House, Soul Island Rebels, and lots more.

Be sure to stop by the Boordy Wine Garden and our Artist Alley to see works by area artists, including local gallery owners Mark Cottman and Crystal Moll. Arts & crafts vendors will offer a variety of wares, such as jewelry, hats, purses, and t-shirts. And, of course, you’ll find lots of great food & drink. Greyhound Express bus will also be on site doing some promotions.

Kids’ Kross Street will feature the usual moon bounces, toddler play area, crafts, and face painting, organized and staffed by community parent volunteers and financed by Federal Hill Main Street. You’ll also find some Urban Pirates, gymnastics performances, kid-friendly cooking lessons, and lots more. And, it’s all free.

Don’t miss this popular Federal Hill street festival and celebration of city life!

Celebratingin the City

Jazz & Blues, Wine & Art

By Jane Seebold, Executive Director of Federal Hill Main Street


During a recent episode of Discovery channel’s television

show Auction Kings, I appraised a Federal period writing desk that was once owned by President Thomas Jefferson at his country estate of Poplar Forest. I described the desk as Hepplewhite in style relating to the designs of the British cabinetmaker, George Hepplewhite. Like President Jefferson, many of us currently own examples of Hepplewhite furniture today both original and reproductions. In its day, Hepplewhite was often referred to as city furniture.

George Hepplewhite (died 1768) was a London designer and cabinetmaker. His famous guidebook, The Cabinet Maker and Upholsterers Guide was published after his death in 1788. The guidebook sparked a period of popularity for the furniture designs known as Hepplewhite style from 1780 to 1810. Hepplewhite furniture was especially popular in American states from New England to the Carolinas during the Federal period.

One of the most popular pieces in the Hepplewhite style is the dining room sideboard or buffet. In the early 1800s, a sideboard was a new furniture form. Hepplewhite sideboards are often bow-shaped, Bombay-shaped, or serpentine (curved). In the late Victorian period, circa 1870s-80s, Hepplewhite reproductions came to the market.

Some of the distinguishing traits of true Hepplewhite furniture include a consistency of formal design. Hepplewhite pieces typically have straight legs which may be square or tapered at the bottom (or at the

foot). An H stretcher is common on Hepplewhite chairs and sofas. What’s an H stretcher? It is a reinforcing piece of wood that connects the legs of a chair or sofa to form the shape of the letter H. The Hepplewhite style feet are simply styled and straightforward. They may be a rectangular spade foot (like the garden tool) or in the shape of an arrow (as if the arrow is shot directly down into the ground) at the bottom of the leg of a chair or sofa. On heavier pieces of furniture like a desk, chest, or tall case, bracketed feet are common. One of the most characteristic traits of Hepplewhite furniture is the use of intricate inlays of contrasting woods and burl veneers. Hepplewhite pieces may be made of sycamore veneers, birch, or rosewood. Satinwood, maple, and mahogany are also standard woods that are found on Hepplewhite furniture. Decorative motifs include urns, feathers, geometric shapes, shields, ribbons, swags, and leaves.

Many manufacturers reproduced Hepplewhite style furniture in the 1900s following in the formal footsteps of the Federal style. Today, Hepplewhite furniture command high values at auction for their classical lines and formal look. A reproduction Hepplewhite sideboard can command a few thousand dollars on the open market whereas a good, original example of Hepplewhite furniture can bring $50,000-$75,000 at auction.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on Discovery channel’s Auction Kings airs Thursdays at 9 PM. Visit www.DrLo r iV. com, www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori or call (888) 431-1010.

Dr. Lori on the set of Discovery’s Auction Kings with President Thomas Jefferson’s Hepplewhite slant top writing desk. (Photo credit: Staff of www.DrLoriV.com)

Art and Antiques by Dr. Lori

AppraisingThomas Jefferson’s Desk

& other Hepplewhite furniture


• If you haven’t done so already; schedule your pets’ annual wellness visit(s) with your veterinarian! Make sure all of your pets are up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations. Your canine friends should also be given a heartworm test every year. Heartworms are spread by infected mosquitoes. Once your pet has been tested and the results are negative, he/she should be kept on preventative medication year-round. Most veterinarians will recommend a combination heartworm test that also tests for the most common tick-borne diseases at the same time. Additionally, you should have your pets’ feces tested once a year for parasites – especially since some of the parasites can be spread to humans.

• An important year-round tip to remember: If you have a new pet, you should not take him/her anywhere other than your own home, private yard and your vet’s office until he/she has been fully vaccinated. There are a few very deadly and highly contagious diseases that your pet could be exposed to that he/she will not have the ability to fight off. Ultimately, prevention is your best cure until your pet is fully ready to face the world at large. Even a simple walk in the park, around the block, or a visit to the local pet store could prove to be deadly for your new family member.

• Keep your pets away from those summer chemicals. Insecticides and lawn or pool products can be harmful to pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach. Even some flea products that can safely be applied to dogs can be deadly to cats. Be sure to read directions on all flea/tick products carefully and follow instructions exactly.

• Water safety. Never leave pets unsupervised around pools, lakes, beaches, etc., as not all pets are

good swimmers. Rinse well after swimming to remove chlorine or salt from fur. Try to keep your pet from drinking the water, which contains those same chemicals and can cause stomach upset or eye irritation. Also, be warned of the dangers of various pool coverings such as the “bubble wrap” solar pool warmers. The covers can actually trap pets below the covers, leading to suffocation or drowning.

• For those of you that enjoy the water with your pets, you would be surprised that hypothermia is actually a risk – even in the summertime. This is especially important for those who frequent lakes and rivers in higher elevations. Severe hypothermia may present as: dilated pupils, stupor or coma, pale or blue gums, decreased heart and respiratory rate, or shivering. The heart and kidneys may also be affected. If this is seen, wrap the animal in a blanket, using hot water bottles (or water balloons) next to the animal. Do NOT use

heating pads - this may cause burns. Get them to a veterinarian or your local Emergency Veterinary Hospital right away.

• Fireworks are not pet-friendly. Leave pets at home when you head out to see fireworks, and don’t ignite fireworks around pets. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma to curious pets and unused fireworks can be hazardous. Many fireworks contain potentially toxic substances such as potassium nitrate, copper, chlorates, arsenic and other heavy metals. Also, the noise and vibrations caused by fireworks are often very traumatic to pets. They have very sensitive hearing and can sometimes need anxiety-reducing medications to alleviate their symptoms. Try to limit their exposure to these displays as much as possible. There are also products such as the “Thunder Shirt” that may be helpful to some pets, offering a snug, cocoon-like feeling to your pet. You can also try a tight

saFetY FOR YOUR petSummertime

By Rob Goodman, D.V.M. and owner, Everhart Veterinary Hospital


now that summer is here, there are a few important issues to consider in keeping your pets safe and healthy:


Although melanoma accounts for less than 5% of skin cancer cases, cancer of the skin is by far the most common of all cancers. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be about 76,690 new melanoma diagnoses in 2013. Historically, melanoma is more likely to occur in older populations. Any individual who is older than 50 or 60 years of age should schedule regular appointments with their dermatologist for screening. Most recently, a staggering number of young adults, specifically women between the ages of 20 – 40 have been diagnosed with the disease. The dramatic increase of melanoma rates in young adults can be attributed to unsafe exposure to ultraviolet light – including direct sunlight and tanning beds – which is a one of the major risk factors for developing melanoma. Certain melanomas can be treated with Mohs surgery. It involves removing small amounts of the cancerous cells from the skin layer by layer, preserving as much healthy skin as possible, while ensuring complete removal of all cancerous cells. This outpatient procedure is performed by board certified dermatologists specially trained in Mohs surgery.

Although Mohs surgery is an effective treatment option for skin cancer and offers the highest rates of cure for patients,

By Linda Lutz, M.D., Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mohs Surgeon

your best bet is to take measures to prevent skin cancer. The easiest and most important way to prevent skin cancer is to protect yourself from the sun. Sunlight is the strongest between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM. While outdoors, be sure to apply and reapply sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher every 2-3 hours. Wear hats to protect your ears, eyes, forehead, and nose from the sun. An even more obvious way to protect yourself from the sizzling summer sun is to simply seek shade or stay indoors during those peak UV index times.

Follow these tips and summer fun in the sun and healthy skin can be a win – win.

Before You strive forthat perfect summer glow, here are a Few things You need to Know


Do you ever wonder why sensational new fad diets keep gaining popularity, month after month, year after year? How many diet plans have you tried over the years, with some working for a little while, but then gaining it all back? In an effort to not be too cynical, I would propose there is more to it than just very slick marketers wanting to make a buck (or gazillion bucks). The idea of a quick fix is an easy sell because we are desperate for quick results. We are vulnerable to new theories, especially those purported by scientists or doctors. We buy and ingest products that we want to believe will be the magic bullet (golden ticket?). We are craving a solution. We are hungry, yet want to look terrific! So I don’t blame you for trying these scams, but just don’t let it get you down when they don’t work out long term, or worst case scenario, make you sick. It’s important to exercise and stay hydrated while you

attempt any of these plans- any “diet” that restricts your activity or your consumption of water is a major red danger flag. Any “diet” that leaves you so hungry that you can’t exercise because you are dizzy or weak is also a signal that something is not quite copasetic….

MEAL REPLACEMENT PLANSWhen you severely restrict your calorie intake with a very-low-calorie diet, such as those based on meal replacement shakes and cereal bars, you lose not only fluid, but muscle. Read the ingredients on these little containers. If the font is miniscule or illegible, consider that it may not be by accident. If you are able to decipher the ingredients, think about what you are eating or imbibing. Will you want to keep eating this artificial material for five years, ten years, forever? Use your brain, not your emotion, to evaluate if this

is an item you want to be absorbing into your body. Butylated Hydroxytoluene? Monosodium Glutamate? Propylene glycol alginate? What is that? On top of being potentially toxic, these plans don’t teach healthy eating habits, or how to control portion sizes. The result: When the diet is stopped, old eating habits haven’t been modified or corrected and the weight can come right back.

DETOX DIETS(juice/raw food/fasting): The theory of detoxing is that we need to get rid of nasty toxins, which build up in our body. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that our body needs to detox. We already have our own in house ‘detoxing shop’ via our liver and kidneys. If you really think your body needs a fast, consider the time between your last meal at night and your

By Andrea Shelby, Owner and GM, Federal Hill Fitness

FAD DIET DISASTERFAD DIET DISASTER

DIET

first meal in the morning…. That’s a good fast!

LOW CARB DIETS(Atkins, South Beach, the Zone, Wheat Belly): These diets focus on restricting carbohydrate intake, and increasing protein consumption. Lack of adequate carbohydrate in the diet eventually leads to fat and protein being used as a source of energy. Some of the side-effects of this include headaches, bad breath, and mood swings. The lack of fiber can also be a problem, leading to constipation. These diets are generally high in fat, most of which is saturated… does that make sense to you?

EXTREME CALORIE RESTRICTION DIET(such as eating only cabbage soup or grapefruit): Very restrictive in nature, and are often based on a single food. Such plans encourage the exclusion of

whole food groups, and are therefore extremely unhealthy. This could result in essential nutrients being missed and even malnutrition if the diet is maintained long term. Very low caloric diets lead to conservation of energy and the breakdown of protein. When the diet is stopped, the body begins to replenish its energy stores, and weight tends to be regained rapidly.

Dieting and weight control can consume your life. Too many people feel pressured to lose weight and try different types of diets without a second thought to the effects of these plans on their total well-being. By accepting your genetic body type, making healthy eating choices, and maintaining a moderately active lifestyle, you can keep your weight under control and enjoy life at the same time.

By accepting your genetic body type, making healthy eating choices, and maintaining a moderately active lifestyle, you can keep your weight under control and enjoy life at the same time. ”

”


blanket wrapped around your pet, using a baby or toddler-sized “onesie” and/or snuggling with your pet if he/she will allow you to do so.

• During warmer months, many pets are injured due to falling from open car windows or falling through screens in open house windows. This can result in broken bones, head or internal injuries and even death. Be aware when leaving your windows open. Make sure the space is small or secured well with a sturdy screen and that he/she cannot fall through.

• Hydrate! Dogs and cats can become dehydrated quickly, so give them access to plenty of fresh, cool water when it is hot outdoors whether they are inside or out.

• Make sure your pet has a cool, shaded place to escape the heat and glare of the sun. Also, when the temperature is high, paw pads can be burned on hot road surfaces.

• Never leave your pet alone in the car. Though it may seem cool outside, the sun can raise the temperature inside your car to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of minutes, even with the windows rolled down. The inside of the car acts like an oven - temperatures can rise to dangerously high levels in a matter of minutes. These hot temperatures can also cause heatstroke.

• Pets need sunscreen too. Though all that fur helps protect him/her, your pet can get sunburned, particularly if he/she has light skin and hair. Sunburn in pets can cause problems similar to those it can cause in people, including pain, peeling, and skin cancer. Keep your pet out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4

p.m., and when you do go out, rub a bit of sunblock on unprotected areas like the tips of the ears, the skin around the lips, and the tip of the nose.

• Good grooming is important. A well-groomed coat will protect your pet from the sun and insulate him/her from the heat. If your pet has extremely thick hair or a lot of mats and tangles, his/her fur may trap too much heat, so you may want to clip him/her.

• Watch out for antifreeze. Hot weather may tempt your pet to drink from puddles in the street, which can contain antifreeze and other chemicals. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that animals like, but it’s extremely toxic. One teaspoon of antifreeze can cause your pet to go into kidney failure! When you’re walking your pet, make sure he/she doesn’t sneak a drink from the street.

• Go slow with pets that can’t deal with the heat. Elderly, very young, or ill animals have a hard time regulating their body temperature. Dogs with snub noses, such as Pekingese, Pugs, and Bulldogs, have a hard time staying cool because they can’t pant efficiently, so they need to stay out of the heat. Overweight dogs are also more prone to overheating, because their extra layers of fat act as insulation, which traps heat in their bodies and restricts their breathing capabilities.

• Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include:

• Panting • Staring • Signs of anxiety/restlessness • Confusion/refusal to obey commands • Warm, dry skin • High fever • Rapid heartbeat • Drooling, vomiting • Lethargy/trouble standing • Collapse

If you suspect heatstroke; call your veterinarian or your local Emergency Veterinary Hospital right away. In the meanwhile, try to lower the pet’s body temperature by applying towels soaked in cool (not cold!) water to the hairless areas of the body. Even if your pet responds after only a few minutes of cooling, his/her temperature can start to rise very quickly once again. With this in mind, it is imperative to get your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Once your pet is in the veterinarian’s care, treatment may include further cooling techniques, intravenous fluid therapy to counter going into shock, or medication to prevent or reverse brain damage. Some pets can recover fully from heatstroke if it is caught early enough. Others suffer permanent organ damage and require lifelong treatment. Sadly, many pets do not survive heatstroke. Prevention is the key to keeping your pet safe during warmer weather.

Remember, it is your duty and privilege to care for your furry friends. They depend on you to keep them safe, happy and healthy.

saFetY FOR YOUR pet

SummertimeContinued from page 30

11. “Kyles Song”- Moe.“Kyles Song” is for all the jam band lovers. You can catch Moe. live at the Lunar Bay Music & Arts Festival in Havre de Grace, MD on June 29.

12. “Moonscapes”- DangermuffinDangermuffin is a great jam/groove band, and has a very organic sound to it. Great song to play on any 80 degree sunny day outside, or just cruising around the harbor.

13. “Walking in Place”- Brock ButlerBrock Butler was the lead singer and guitarist for the band Perpetual Groove. After their recent hiatus, Brock has been touring on his own. I saw him live at the 8x10 in December and man, this guy can play the guitar. For all the guys reading this, learn how to play this song on the guitar and play it for your girlfriend on the beach, she will definitely dig it.

14. “Lie in Our Graves- Live at Radio City” - Dave Matthews and Tim ReynoldsOne of my all time favorite Dave songs, “Lie in Our Graves” has an amazing sound to it and will make everyone smile at the family cookouts. This is a classic song, and every time you listen to it, it will never get old. The closest Dave Matthews will be to Baltimore this summer will be in Hershey, PA, but the Dave Matthews Band is worth the drive.

15. “Fussing & Fighting”- Bob MarleyHow can this be a summer list without Bob Marley? Bob’s classic reggae soul style is evident in “Fussing & Fighting” and is a tune to be played on your iHome at the beach. If you are a huge Bob Marley fan or enjoy learning about music artists, watch Kevin Macdonald’s documentary titled “Marley.” If you aren’t into reggae you will be after watching.

Well, that’s all folks. I hope you can find at least a few songs you will enjoy listening to with the top down in the car and your hair flowing in the wind this summer. Music brings happiness, and happiness brings good times and memories. “Positive Vibrations, mon.”

Top 15 Summer

Jams Playlist

Continued from page 16


We have all had one of those days when we do not feel like getting out of bed

in the morning. We may have felt sad or depressed at times, which can be a normal reaction to our daily life’s struggles: a bruised ego, the loss of a loved one, or heartbreak.

But when sadness lasts more than a day or two and turns from weeks to months, this may be more than just sadness, it may be clinical depression. Depression is a mood disorder characterized by both physical and psychological symptoms that can be detrimental to one’s normal daily functioning. Symptoms of depressed individuals often suffer from anxiety, worry, poor memory, the inability to concentrate, poor sleeping habits, crying spells and lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed. For some, they become so depressed they feel helpless and hopeless about their lives and look for the ultimate escape: suicide.

Suicide. It is such an ugly word, isn’t it? It certainly isn’t a hot topic or something glamorous to discuss. But for anyone who has had personal experience with losing a loved one to suicide, discovering someone who has committed suicide or for the desperate souls who feel the pain of suicidal thoughts, this may be in the forefront of your mind.

Treatments for Depression and Prevention of SuicideGet Counseling: A previous suicide attempt is among the strongest predictors of subsequent suicide. Studies have shown that a type of psychotherapy called Cognitive Therapy reduces the rate of suicide attempts by 50 percent by helping individuals consider alternative actions when thought of self-harm occur.

Acupuncture: In a study by NIH (National Institute of Health) of women suffering from depression, 70% of participants experienced at least a 50% reduction of symptoms from acupuncture treatments. This study was the first U.S. randomized, controlled, double-blind study of acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating depression. This is NIH’s conclusion: “Acupuncture may alter brain chemistry by changing the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones in a good way.”

See the Warning Signs: The best way to prevent suicide is to recognize the warning signs. Take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It is not just a warning sign; it is a cry for help. If you believe a friend or family member is suicidal, pay attention to the following signs:

1. Talk about killing or harming oneself 2. Writing about death or dying 3. Seeking out things which could be used in an attempt such as weapons or drugs 4. Talk about a ‘bleak’ future and hopelessness 5. Dramatic mood swings 6. Personality changes – such as going from being outgoing to being withdrawn

What Can You Do to help Raise awareness and Offer support?

About twenty years ago, I lost my best friend to suicide. He was 23 years old, a young kid really, who took his own life out of desperation. Although discovering him was traumatic, what was most difficult for me personally was witnessing the pain his family and friends were experiencing after his death. Even more so were all of the unanswered questions we all had, such as…Why? Why didn’t I see the signs? Why didn’t he come to me? How did I not know he was so depressed that this was his only solution? What could I have done to save him?

What can be done to prevent suicide and offer support to those experiencing suicidal thoughts? What can we do to help those grieve their loss and celebrate the life of their loved one? Well, in the summer of 2013, I was fortunate enough to meet Charlie Speno, who introduced me to The Out of the Darkness Overnight. It is a fundraising walk of 16-18 miles throughout the night, designed to raise awareness and to make a bold statement to bring the issue of suicide out into the light. What a great concept!

What I love about Charlie is not only his positive energy but he actually walks the walk and talks the talk. Charlie, a Johns Hopkins Alumni, was fresh out of college and worked as a crisis intervention specialist while pursuing his special education degree for emotionally disturbed children. He

worked with many c h i l d r e n who suffered from depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. During this time he had first hand experience with these children attempting suicide and unfortunately the aftermath of some succeeding. In 2011, he also experienced finding someone who committed suicide and felt it was time to do something more about it.

Charlie’s goal “is to take my life experiences and let folks know that this is not an orphan disease (meaning it only happens with a few people) and more people have these difficulties than originally thought. It also means there are some great actors out there who mask their pain and despair. Unfortunately when we realize a friend or loved one was suffering it is only after they have succeeded with this final act of desperation.”

In September, 2013, Charlie will be walking The Out of the Darkness Overnight in Ocean City. The Healing Path Massage & Wellness will be helping him reach his goal by offering the Speno Massage, Acupuncture and Counseling Packages. 10% of all profits from these packages sold in the month of June and July will be donated to help him reach his goal and raise awareness and prevent suicide.

To show your support, please visit our online store at: www.healingpathbaltimore.com or visit his home page: http://afsp.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donordrive.participant&participantID=403092

The Out of the Darkness Overnight was created by The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), the leading national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to understanding and preventing suicide through research, education and advocacy, and to reaching out to people with mental disorders and those impacted by suicide. To learn more, visit: www.afsp.org.

a WaLK OF OnetO heLp ManYby Marie Gallagher, owner of The Healing Path Massage & Wellness

sobo garden - sobo voice

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