St. Mary's River Watershed Association, Inc., Post Office Box 94, St. Mary's City, MD 20686 [email protected]
A River Affair is the St. Mary's River Watershed Association's largest fundraiser of the year. By purchasing tickets, hosting, or donating auction items, you are supporting our work to protect, improve, and promote the sustainability of the St. Mary's River. Please join us!
Sunday, April 12, 2026
12 pm to 4 pm
Ruddy Duck Seafood & Alehouse
16800 Piney Point
Piney Point, MD 20674
The event will feature heavy hors d'oeuvres including oysters Rockefeller, poached salmon, and shrimp flatbread, bottomless brews and wine, and a live and silent auction.
In honor of our River Champion:
Rep. Steny Hoyer
All proceeds benefit the St. Mary's River.
SOLD OUT - Thank you!
Tickets are $100 ($35 is tax-deductible). Tickets can be purchased through PayPal (by clicking the button below) or by sending a check to PO Box 94, St. Mary's City, MD 20686. Checks should be made out to "SMRWA" or the "St. Mary's River Watershed Association."
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are non-refundable. Please contact Emma at [email protected] if you would like to transfer your tickets to someone else.
If you are interested in hosting A River Affair ($1,000 and four tickets), please use this link or send a check to PO Box 94, St. Mary's City, MD 20686.
The St. Mary's River Watershed Association is proud to announce our 2025 River Champions: Diana Mendes and the late Mark Bassett and Russell Miller! These three incredible honorees were instrumental in our 2024 operations, and we look forward to honoring them at A River Affair.
This year, we're proud to honor long-time supporter of the St. Mary's River, Congressman Steny Hoyer. As you may know, the St. Mary's River Watershed Association was founded after data from the St. Mary's River Project, led by researchers at St. Mary's College of Maryland, found that the river was degraded. A group of local citizens stepped up to form the association and respond to the degraded water quality. Much of the over 1.1 million dollars of federal aid that the St. Mary's River Project received was a direct result of Congressman Steny Hoyer's steadfast commitment to the River. It's safe to say that without his support, we would not be celebrating twenty years of success at this year's A River Affair.
Mary Barber & Curtis von Kann
Jeff Clark
Del. Brian Crosby
Karen & John Garner
Gail & John Harmon
Rosemary & Alan Hinkle
Diana Mendes
Jean Illingworth & Chris Tanner
Julie & Larry O'Brien
Bozena & Tony Pait
Susan & Bob Paul
Sherry Stanley & John Giusti
A one of a kind custom-built rowboat with a classic New England Swampscott dory design. Handcrafted by the late Rodney Johnson who modeled the design off a small sailing skiff. The boat is nine feet in length, crafted with thin, durable marine wood and fastened with copper rivets. Lightweight and handles easily, easy to transport and maneuver. Has an oak rub rail and pine thwarts. The counterbalanced hand-carved oars have leather chafe guards and move freely in the bronze open-topped rowlocks (are not pinned). This vessel is excellent for shallow water access and is easy to trailer (or put in the back of the pick up). Great for fishing and exploring. Has a fresh coat of paint courtesy of SMRWA Board Members, Larry and Dave. Comes with two life jackets and can be delivered locally. The family hopes that the boat can bring enjoyment to others who love our river.
Donated by Corinne White
Explore the rich history of St. Mary's County with this curated book package, perfect for history buffs and newcomers alike. The SlackWater Journals (eight volumes) capture firsthand oral histories from St. Mary's County. Non-fiction book, Shipwreck on the Potomac: Disaster in Pursuit of Lincoln’s Killer by Karen Stone tells the story of a Civil War era shipwreck in the Potomac River during the hunt for presidential assassin John Wilkes Booth. The signed, historical novel, The Madness of Moll Dyer by Christine Trent, is about Moll Dyer, a legendary Leonardtown resident accused of witchcraft in the 17th-century. Images of America: St. Mary's County by Linda Davis Reno offers a stunning photographic journey. The hardcover I'm Goin' Down County (used) by Kirk E. Ranzetta highlights the county’s deep connection to its waterways, and History of St. Mary’s County Maryland 1634-1990 (used) by Regina Combs Hammett provides a comprehensive look at the region’s past. A Most Convenient Place: Leonardtown, MD, 1650-1950 by Aleck Loker tells the history of St. Mary's County's county seat. It contains numerous pictures of Leonardtown and its people throughout history, and recounts how this vibrant Southern Maryland community has emerged as the center of government, education, and commerce in that region.
Donated by the SlackWater Center, Patricia Samford, Eve Love, Steve & Elaine Gass, and Karen Stone
The winning bidder will receive a studio tour for up to six people with internationally known artists Jim Sanborn and Jae Ko at their home on Jimmy's Island. Jae transforms rolled paper and ink into lush curvilinear forms that reflect nature. Her work has been exhibited at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the Phillips Collection, and the Corcoran Gallery of Art. Jim is best known for creating the encrypted Kryptos sculpture at CIA headquarters in Langley, Virginia, but has also created works inspired by Euclidian geometry, nuclear physics, and forged antiquities. Included in this package is a gift card to the Ruddy Duck. Tour to be scheduled at the convenience of the donor and the winning bidder.
Donated by Jim Sanborn & Jae Ko
Bob Parkinson will harvest fifty oysters, especially for you. Moonstruck Oysters are celebrated for their clean, briny flavor with a subtly sweet finish. Pick-up your 50-count bag in Hollywood, MD by the end of June 2026.
Donated by Moonstruck Oyster Company
This original hand-made serigraph was created by local artist and St. Mary's College alum, Jeanne Norton Hammett. Unlike machine printing, silkscreen involves a process where each print is hand-pulled, allowing for unique, layered, and vibrant colors. This is a framed limited edition piece, entitled "Saltmarsh" measures 25.5" W x 21.5" H.
Donated & Crafted by Jeanne Norton Hammett
A bushel of locally caught number one blue crabs. The crabs can be steamed or live from Maryland Crab and Fish Co. Order ahead and pick up during crab season (summer or early fall) from Golden Eye Seafood in Piney Point.
Donated by Lance Lumpkins
One-of-a-kind ensemble of earrings and two pendants made of green cork, grey slate, and genuine earth-mined natural black gemstones. Each pendant has a unique design and can also be worn as a brooch.
Donated & Crafted by Studio Sabine Susanne
A bundle of experiences in Ridge, MD: Take in the beautiful views of St. Jerome Creek during a one night stay at the luxurious Swanendele Inn. Then, travel next door for a tour of the True Chesapeake Oyster Farm, where you'll check out the baby oysters growing in the nursery and take a ride on the work boat to see the grow-out area and how the oysters are harvested. After the busy day, savor a waterfront dining experience with breathtaking sunset views at Pier450.
Donated by Swanendele Inn, True Chesapeake Oyster Company, & Pier450
Enhance your home with this charming and colorful tile created by hand by artist Parran Collery. An 8 x 10 inch terra cotta relief sculpture with bright juicy glaze, perfect for both indoors and outdoors.
Donated & Crafted by Parran Collery
You can help build a home for hundreds of oysters with just $100! Bottom-grown oysters are stressed by the mud and low oxygen, but oysters on reef balls grow faster and live longer. For each $100 donation, we will install one Reef Ball with your inscription of up to 26 characters. No limit on how many!
Donated by SMRWA
An assembledge of hand-picked driftwood from the shores of the Chesapeake Bay arranged artistically into two floating angelfish. Made by local artist, Larry Ringgold of Turtle Point Driftwood. Approximately 22" wide and 28.5" tall.
Donated & Crafted by Larry Ringgold
Seventy decadent mini-desserts generously donated by talented baker, Bozena Pait. Perfect for parties, showers, or special celebrations, these bite-sized treats are as beautiful as they are delicious. Place your order at least two weeks in advance, and Bozena and Tony will freshly prepare them just for your event.
Donated by Bozena and Tony Pait
A lovely handcrafted ceramic wall clock, adorned with delicate seashell impressions and flowing blue wave accents, evoking the serene charm of the seaside. 8.5 inches in diameter with a single AA battery-operated quartz mechanism.
Donated by Corinne White
Six pieces of blue and white sea glass collected from the St Mary's River decorate this 14.25" x 11.25" stained glass mirror. A heart-shaped piece of sea glass is the focal point of the blue and white mirror. This beautiful piece was hand-crafted by a local artist.
Donated & Crafted by Lani Clark
Relish local history and wildlife at the Calvert Marine Museum with four admission passes and four Wm. B. Tennison cruise passes. While in Solomons, enjoy a delicious meal at La Vela Italian Restaurant with a $50 gift card.
Donated by the Calvert Marine Museum and La Vela
Bring joy to your mornings with two ceramic art coffee mugs each featuring a crab by Chesapeake Designs. Fill your mugs with Buzz Buzz Coffee (mix of medium and dark roasts with chocolate and fruit notes) from St. Inie's.
Donated by Liz Price & Chesapeake Designs
This Kalliope brass adjustable ring features a gray crystal enveloped by distinctive floral prongs.
Donated by Pier450
Bradford is recognized by several international awards as one of the world’s top portraitists for their dramatic and classical approach to the art. The winning bidder will receive a portrait session and a one night stay at either the Opus Westchester in New York or the EAST Miami Hotel in Miami, as well as a 20" wall portrait on canvas.
Donated by Bradford Renaissance Portraits
A beautifully crafted hand-painted wooden sculpture of a striped bass. The wooden base has a plaque that includes the species name, Morone saxitalis. Measures 24" W x 12"H.
Donated and Crafted by Bob Paul
An elegantly fashioned wood tray for serving or display, designed and made by Chip Jackson. The tray features a rich walnut and cherry base with a maple inlay of a speckled trout, detailed with hand-painted acrylic accents. The whole piece is finished with polyurethane for durability. Measures 21” W x 13.5” H.
Donated and Crafted by Chip Jackson
A 250th commemorative design by master sign maker Donnie Poe. Mr. Poe's handcrafted and hand-lettered sign recalls the bygone era of fine craftmanship, where each sign is an original, signed by the artist. Mr. Poe’s signs are proudly displayed in homes and businesses throughout the Chesapeake Region.
Donated and Crafted by Donnie Poe
An elegant chain necklace by Karli Buxton has a classic curb link design, made with 14K gold-plated brass. Versatile and stylish.
Donated by Pier450
Get cozy with this 70 x 88 inch floral and geometric patterned quilt. Machine-stitched by Pat Sloan Quilts.
Donated and Crafted by Pat Sloan
The artist Julie O'Brien combines sea glass collected from the shores of St. George Island with Swarovski crystals and rare beads to create one of a kind handmade jewelry. This pair of sterling silver earrings features black cultured pearls and natural aqua sea glass.
Donated and Crafted by Julie O'Brien of Frosted Trash
The artist Julie O'Brien combines sea glass collected from the shores of St. George Island with Swarovski crystals and rare beads to create one of a kind handmade jewelry. This pair of sterling silver earrings features abalone and natural aqua sea glass.
Donated and Crafted by Julie O'Brien of Frosted Trash
Enjoy two nights out in St. Mary's County! The winning bidder and three friends will delight in an evening of virtuosic Scottish fiddling by Alasdair Fraser and brilliant California cellist, Natalie Haas hosted by Southern Maryland Traditional Music and Dance on Friday, April 24, 2026 in Chaptico. Their traditional fiddle and cello tunes have created a buzz at festivals and concert halls across the world for over 20 years. Then, enjoy four balcony tickets for any show with ticket availability at the Rex Theater. Before the show, get your fill with a $150 gift card at Sweetbay Restaurant & Bar in Leonardtown!
Donated by Sweetbay Restaurant & Bar, Elaine Szymkowiak, and The Rex Theatre
Be one of the first members at the brand new YMCA, opening in June 2026, in Great Mills. The new facility includes an aquatic center, gymnasium, indoor track, and wellness rooms. If you start your membership when the Y opens, you'll be a founding member!
Donated by the St. Mary's County YMCA
This laser-engraved lazy Susan by Russell Camaioni is entitled Rockfish Circling The Net. It evokes the waterman's life in a truly captivating image. Made of hardy Acacia wood and crafted by the grandson of one of St. George Island's legendary watermen. The diameter is 20."
Donated and Crafted by Russell Camaioni
This stunning work of art showcases a sgraffito drawing with a high-contrast textured design that wraps around the entire piece. This slab-built porcelain vase was fired to cone six oxidation and features a geometric altered rim and green patina interior glaze. Measures 9"(w) x 7"(h) x 3"(d).
Donated and Crafted by Shirley Gromen
This professionally framed and matted artwork is a signed limited edition print (143/950) titled "Foggy Run" depicting a sailing vessel near a lighthouse. The artist, John Morton Barber, is a celebrated Virginia artist specializing in Chesapeake Bay maritime scenes. Measures 31" W x 22" H.
Donated by Stuart & Amy Egeli
This package includes four general admission tickets to the Historic St. Mary’s City and a tour led by Dr. Travis Parno of the St. Mary’s Fort, an ongoing archaeological dig site that includes both Native American and colonizer history. After exploring, enjoy dinner and drinks with a $150 gift card to SALT Waterfront Kitchen in Ridge. Then, retreat to a peaceful waterfront AirBnB on St. Inigoes Creek in St. Mary’s City for a relaxing weeknight stay in a spacious two-bedroom, one-bath apartment that features a screened-in porch, a private dock, and access to kayaks and a canoe for exploring the scenic waterways.
Donated by Nell & Pat Elder, SALT Waterfront Kitchen, Travis Parno and HSMC
A signed Giclée, numbered print by Carolyn Egeli comes in a gorgeous oak frame with preservation glass and tan mat. Framed measurements are 31" x 25".
Donated by Barry Muchnick
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Donated by
Thank you to the generous individuals, businesses, and organizations that donated to our live and silent auction. Their support makes A River Affair and the programs it supports possible.
Russell Camaioni
Lani Clark
Parran Collery & Eartha Handmade Tile
Pat & Nell Elder
Amy & Stuart Egeli
Steve & Elaine Gass
Jeanne Norton Hammett
Chip Jackson
Jae Ko & Jim Sanborn
Eve Love
Lance Lumpkins
Barry Muchnick
Bonzena & Tony Pait
Travis Parno
Bob Paul
Donnie Poe
Liz Price
Larry Ringgold
Patricia Samford
The Slackwater Center
Pat Sloan Quilts
Karen Stone
Elaine Szymkowiak
Corinne White
2025: Diana Mendes, Mark Bassett, and Russell Miller
2024: Norm & Shelly O’Foran
2023: Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust
2022: Captain Will Gates
2020: Suellen Keiner & Richard Holden
2019: Chris Tanner & Allison Rugila
2018: Karen Nutter, Dan Raley & Ann Raley
2017: Bill Bailey & St. Mary’s College of Maryland
2016: Bob Paul & Lexington Park Rotary
2015: Joe Anderson & Boeing
2014: John Hanson Briscoe
2013: Bob Lewis
2012: Bernie Fowler
2011: Nancy McAllister & Roger Stone
ABOUT OUR WORK GET INVOLVED EVENTS DONATE
St. Mary's River Watershed Association, Inc., Post Office Box 94, St. Mary's City, MD 20686 [email protected]