Bay Weekly: Not Just for Kids

Aaron Riddle, Cartoonist
He Drew His Dream to Him
by Ariel Brumbaugh

Aford T. Turtle was born in the woods behind Aaron Riddle’s house. At 10, Riddle and his brother liked to find turtles in the woods.

About the same time, Aaron was inspired by cartoonist Jim Davis’ Garfield to draw cartoons. He drew and named the creatures he knew: Aford, Simon Snake and Robin.

Aford, as made by Aaron at age 10.

By college, Aaron practiced every day, and his characters grew into cartoons. As he practiced himself from amateur to professional, he researched animation. Soon his work started appearing on the Internet at www.afordturtle.com. His comic strip now appears in 10 to 12 newspapers. His goal is for Aford to be syndicated, like Garfield, around the nation.

Aford, as made by Aaron at age 19.

Aaron Riddle, now 21, lives in Pasadena with wife Jennifer. He also works as a graphic designer. His first book, now being published, is called Scales, Feathers and Fur.

Aford, as made by Aaron today.

If cartooning is your passion, then set your heart to it, Aaron advises. Practice makes perfect. You have to work at what you love every day to make it great.

Kids Calendar

Friday, May 24
Moonlit Meander
Kids 6 and older explore the woods by moonlight. The darkness will bring your senses to life. Learn about the moon and creatures of the night and end your evening with a moon story over a cup of hot cocoa. 8–9:30pm @ Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Wrighton Rd. off Rt. 258, Lothian. $2.50 w/age discounts: 410/741-9330.

Saturday, May 25
Creepy Crawlies
Search for the critters that scientists call “herps” and your folks call “nasty” — snakes, frogs, toads, lizards, turtles and salamanders. Discover how reptiles and amphibians are similiar, how they’re different and what it means to be an “ectotherm.” Wear shoes that can get wet. 2–4pm @ Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary, Wrighton Rd. off Rt. 258, Lothian. $2.50 w/age discounts: 410/741-9330.

Tuesday, May 28
Summer Swim
Hear underwater adventure tales, make a deep-sea craft and pick up a Diver’s Journal to participate in Barnes & Noble’s summer reading program for kids grades 1–6; earn a free book by reading eight before September 3. 10am @ Barnes & Noble, Annapolis Harbour Center: 410/573-1115.