Marking a milestone

When contractors finished the steel frame for the new four-story Tawes nursing & rehab center in scenic Crisfield, it was time for a construction industry tradition - a "topping off" ceremony.

The threat of thunderstorms July 17 forced the late afternoon event indoors, where invited guests, civic, business and political leaders nonetheless gathered to celebrate the milestone.

Some who attended were so inspired by the energy and excitement that the $12½-million project is generating in the community that building fund-drive chairman Jay Tawes collected nearly $3,000 in spontaneous donations, which will go toward a $1-million goal.