Story by Rose Talbot and Photography by August Selckmann

Feathering your nest in Southern Maryland doesn’t require migrating to a major metropolis; there are plenty of local sources in the tri-county area if you know where (and when) to look. Tucked away on back roads or in old houses on major thoroughfares, there are small businesses offering a range of choices for furnishing your home.

Story by Michelle Brosco Christian and Photograph by Calvert Memorial Hospital

After one of Kristy Wilhite’s students battled cancer and survived eight incidences, she knew she had to get involved. That’s what prompted the St. Mary’s County middle school teacher to become a major organizer of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event.

Story by Barbara Elizabeth Graf and Photograph by Sean O’Brien

The number of deaths from all types of cancer combined in the U.S. is continuing a decline that began in the early 1990s, according to the “Annual Report to the Nation on the Status of Cancer” published by the American Cancer Society earlier this year. This 1.6 percent decrease in cancer deaths on average was calculated by four coordinating agencies and the American Cancer Society (ACS) using the most recent cancer data gathered between the years of 2004 and 2008. Although it is slight, a decrease in the number of cancer deaths provides a positive glimmer of hope for all who are fighting the battle against cancer.

Story by Jamie Clark Tiralla and Photography by August Selckmann

Southern Maryland is seeing a shift in agriculture as more and more farms leave behind traditional methods of farming and cash crops for a fresh new approach. Hobby farms and farmettes are also on the rise in the area, giving people the chance to reconnect with their roots and supplement their income doing something they love. Many local farmers are finding out that alpacas are the perfect fit.

Story by George Newman and Photography by Rick Dove

Some birds are fair-weather feathered friends, taking flight for points south as the days grow shorter and cooler. But many others tough it out, including Maryland’s state bird, the Baltimore oriole, and a rich variety of doves, juncos, cardinals, chickadees, finches, nuthatches, wrens and woodpeckers. If you want these year-round residents to brighten your fall and winter, you just have to feed them. But you need to know some basics.

Story by Susan Glauner and Photography by August Selckmann

The term organic is used to describe a method of agriculture as well as to label products that are produced using organic means. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines organic foods as those grown or produced “through approved methods that integrate cultural, biological, and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance, and conserve biodiversity.” Besides prohibited pesticides, “synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering” may not be used.

Story by Barbara Elizabeth Graf and Photography by August Selckmann

Lighthouse lovers from all over the world – many of whom have toured Maryland’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse at Cove Point – will now be able to stay overnight in the former lighthouse keeper’s home, just footsteps away from the forty-foot high brick tower. Originally constructed in 1828, the lighthouse keeper’s home has undergone many transformations in its nearly 200 years of existence. The latest renovations to the two-and-one-half story duplex have turned the once dingy and dated abode into a cozy and stylish oasis times two: a perfect spot for a week-long vacation or a weekend getaway not only for lighthouse enthusiasts, but for anyone seeking relaxation on the Chesapeake Bay.

Review and Photography by Caroline Miller King

Looking for a great spot to celebrate after your kid’s soccer game? Craving a pizza fix during your lunch hour? Or trying to find authentic Italian gelato for a sweet treat?

Nicolletti’s Pizza in California, Md., has you covered.

Story by Janet Dunphy and Photography by John Kite

Southern Maryland is for dog lovers, and the counties of St. Mary’s, Calvert and Charles are making sure pets have a place to play.

Story by Danita Boonchaisri

The pursuit of happiness may have been promised by our country’s founders, but now more than ever it seems Americans are in pursuit of health and wellness. From those who seek help to quit smoking or lose a few pounds to others who want an exercise program to de-stress, get stronger or feel better there are any number of workshops, programs, classes and activities to fit the bill right here in Southern Maryland.