Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Chestertown
One of Spy’s favorites Maryland writers (and Mid-Shore native) Lydia Woolever takes on the importance of the Chesapeake Bay in the current issue of Baltimore Magazine. In Lydia’s essay, she makes a compelling case that the Bay is not only critical to the state’s identity but extends beyond Maryland’s borders, impacting the surrounding states and the entire region.
Read it here.
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The town of Easton marked a historic milestone as it welcomed its first-ever female mayor during a poignant swearing-in ceremony on Monday night. Mayor Megan Cook took the oath of office, promising to serve diligently and faithfully without partiality or prejudice.
The event was marked by heartfelt speeches from the outgoing council members Ron Engle and Al Silverstein, who reminisced about their eight years of service and expressed best wishes for the new council members and the mayor. They highlighted the progress made during their tenure, including downtown improvements, bike paths, and the Easton Point small area plan.
During her first report as Mayor, Cook acknowledged the significance of her election as the first woman to hold the office, stating that it marked “a monumental milestone in the journey towards equality and progress.” She expressed gratitude for the trailblazing women who came before her and hoped to make a meaningful impact for those who would follow. Cook quoted Eleanor Roosevelt, saying, “well-behaved women seldom make history,” emphasizing the power of women who write their own narratives and seize opportunities.
Mayor Cook will be meeting with department heads and staff in the coming weeks to discuss her goals and priorities moving forward. She looks forward to sharing these plans with the public and working together to inspire positive change in Easton.
The town of Easton embarks on a new era under the leadership of Mayor Cook and the newly sworn-in council members. With their commitment to the Constitution and the laws of the state, the town can anticipate a promising future filled with progress and collaboration.
Foundation of Hope Seeks Funding for Hope Center Construction in Easton
Another highlight was a presentation by The Foundation of Hope, led by President and CEO Keasha Haythe, appealed for funding to construct the Hope Center at 52 South Washington Street in Easton. Currently a vacant lot, the proposed center would serve as the organization’s headquarters and expand their afterschool programs.
Concept Design
The two-story, 5,400-square-foot Hope Center would house offices and HOPE programming on the upper floor, while the ground floor would feature community spaces and a teaching kitchen. Private offices for rent would provide additional revenue streams to sustain the program.
Support letters, including one from a grateful parent, emphasized the positive impact of the Foundation’s programs on young participants. The testimonial highlighted the value of social interactions, new friendships, and essential life skills such as budgeting and job preparation.
The Hope Center’s construction would allow for program expansion, increased staff, volunteers, and student participation. It would provide more opportunities for girls to access knowledge and resources crucial for their success.
Ms. Haythe’s leadership and collaborative efforts have inspired and motivated participants, empowering them to strive for excellence. The community eagerly awaits the positive transformation the Hope Center will bring.
The Foundation of Hope’s request for construction funding holds the promise of enriching the lives of young girls, equipping them with the necessary skills and resources for their future. The community eagerly supports this endeavor and looks forward to the opportunities it will provide.
As Ms. Haythe concluded her presentation, she invited questions from the counsel, allowing further exploration of the Foundation’s vision and plans for the Hope Center. The community eagerly awaits the counsel’s decision regarding funding allocation, as it has the potential for a substantial positive impact on the community.
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In a world where human beings are inherently social creatures, the value of community and social interaction cannot be overstated. The power of companionship and engagement becomes even more evident as we age, and the consequences of isolation can be profound. That is the Spy’s reason for checking in with Irma Toce, The CEO of Londonderry on the Tred Avon, as part of our ongoing”Ask Irma” series.
This video is approximately 3 minutes in length. For more information about Londonderry on the Tred Avon please go here.
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Local students and community members gathered at the Queen Anne’s County Council meeting last week to address the pressing issue of single-use plastic pollution. Genevieve Henrietta, a junior at Kent Island High School and an environmental advocate, submitted a petition with 65 signatures supporting the elimination of single-use plastic bags in the county.
Henrietta, a student leader with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and a regular volunteer with Kent Island Beach Cleanups, spoke passionately about her experiences with plastic pollution along the shores and wetland areas of the Chesapeake Bay.
Bente Cooney, a representative of Plastic Free QAC, highlighted several Maryland jurisdictions who have already enacted similar bans, including Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Chestertown, College Park, Easton, Howard County, Laurel, Montgomery County, Salisbury, Takoma Park, and Westminster. Next week, Prince George’s County is set to pass a similar bill, while other municipalities like Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Frederick City, and Annapolis are also considering or drafting legislation. Centreville is expected to introduce a similar proposal in May.
The proposed ban targets single-use plastic carryout bags typically provided by grocery stores and other retailers. Certain exceptions would be allowed, such as bags for meat, fish, and other items that require plastic packaging. The proposal does not affect other single-use plastics, such as straws or cups in restaurants.
To encourage consumers to bring their reusable bags, the proposed legislation would require retailers to charge a 10-cent fee for each paper bag. The fee would go directly to the retailers, with no tax implications. The hope is that the fee will serve as a reminder for customers to bring reusable bags and ultimately reduce the consumption of single-use bags.
Queen Anne County’s consideration of a plastic bag ban reflects the growing awareness and desire for environmental sustainability across Maryland.
This video is approximately four minutes in length. For more information about Plastic Free QAC please go here.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Born and raised in Nigeria, Adedapo Laditan came to the United States to pursue higher education in information systems and sciences when his job search took an unexpected turn which led him to work in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
He began his career as a weekend counselor at a nonprofit agency, eventually working his way up to become the Senior Director for Adult Services at Benedictine.
At Benedictine, Ade oversees two programs: the adult residential program and the adult day services program. The organization currently supports 98 adults in these programs, emphasizing their right to live fulfilling lives and contribute to their community, just like anyone else.
Benedictine actively promotes this belief through a process called person-centered planning. Each individual’s preferences, interests, and strengths are considered when matching them with potential employment opportunities in the community. Benedictine also offers skill-building programs to help individuals meet the needs of local businesses.
As a result, many of the adults supported by Benedictine have found meaningful employment in various sectors, including graphic design, hospitality, and retail. Currently, about 20 individuals are employed in the community, with varying levels of independence and support from Benedictine.
Despite the success stories, there are still challenges in finding businesses willing to collaborate and provide opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Often, the problem lies in a lack of understanding and education about the valuable contributions these individuals can bring to the workplace.
To bridge this gap, Benedictine works closely with local businesses to ensure that they add value to their operations while addressing their concerns about potential barriers. By showcasing the benefits of diversity in the workplace, Benedictine hopes to create more opportunities for their community members.
Ade envisions a near future where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are fully integrated into society, enjoying the same experiences as those without disabilities. By breaking down barriers and fostering acceptance, Benedictine is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse community.
This video is approximately 5 minutes in length. for more information about Benedictine please go here
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Gunston School, a private school just outside of Centreville, like so many other things in its long history, seems to be at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into its curriculum. In this interview with Head of School John Lewis and graduating senior Damian Rene talk about school’s unique approach to AI and find a way to weave this new technology into every subject and discipline, while also providing a specific strand for students who have a deep interest in computer science, such as Damian.
The school sees AI as a learning tool rather than something to avoid. Lewis said, “We should really embrace it as more of a learning tool rather than this thing to kind of stay away from.” The birth of the Internet sparked similar reactions, but the school recognizes its potential in the classroom.
AI has been around for a while, but it has exploded recently due to public access. Students can generate anything from essays to theses, research papers, and practice problems. Damian presented a sample assignment for Lewis’s AP class as part of the trustee presentation. Lewis said it was a good encapsulation of the assignment, but students should not rely on AI as a 100% accurate resource.
Gunston’s approach to AI is focused on teaching students critical thinking in the age of AI. Lewis cited the example of maps and how students need to learn directionality, even though they can rely on GPS. The school wants to bring fundamental concepts into analog format so that students understand the deep structure of the concept before using AI tools.
Damian provided two examples of AI’s potential for learning. One was creating a marketing campaign for Gunston using specific terms. The other was generating an essay assignment, which the AI tool completed. Lewis said the school needs to rethink what it expects from students in terms of production and the teaching of writing.
Gunston is still at the first steps of AI integration. The school has an internal team dedicated to exploring the technology and formulating additional training and professional development for faculty. Lewis acknowledges that some people know how to use AI, but the vast majority of Americans have no idea of its potential.
The school aims to teach critical thinking in the age of AI and bring fundamental concepts into analog format before using AI tools. Gunston is at the first steps of AI integration and plans to offer training and professional development for faculty in the upcoming summer and fall.
This video is approximately 5 minutes in length. For more information about the Gunston School please go here.
Editor note: The introduction copy to this Spy video interview was produced by ChatGPT-3.5.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
After an extended pause due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Spy Newspapers is thrilled to announce the highly-anticipated return of its Distinguished Speaker Series. Esteemed architect Mark McInturff, FAIA, will grace the stage with a captivating presentation on May 18th at the Academy Art Museum from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Reservations are required for this exclusive event, and tickets can be purchased by clicking here. Ticket costs are tax-deductible and will directly support the Talbot Spy’s ongoing coverage of art and design in the Mid-Shore region.
Mark, who also maintains a residence in Neavitt, MD, has earned a stellar reputation in Talbot County for his exceptional residential designs. Architect and Spy Writer Jenn Martella has regularly featured his work in her popular weekly column, “Design with Jenn Martella” in the Talbot Spy. During his presentation, Mr. McInturff will provide insights into his current projects, including the design of the St. Michaels Community Center and several notable residences.
Following the presentation, attendees will have the unique opportunity to purchase one of twenty donated copies of Mr. McInturff’s latest book, “HOMEwork,” with all proceeds benefiting the construction fund of the St. Michaels Community Center. As a special gesture, Mr. McInturff will personally sign each copy upon request.
Don’t miss this exceptional evening with one of the most respected architects in the industry. Reserve your seat today and support the Talbot Spy and the St. Michaels Community Center.
To reserve tickets please go here.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
According to Tom Marx, the Capsize restaurant in Oxford fills a special niche in the small community’s culinary offerings. The owner of the large waterfront dining establishment answers the needs of small families visiting the Eastern Shore by boat to birthday celebrations for grandmothers in a way that keeps the spirit and hospitality of Oxford front and center without the need for white linen tablecloths or loud music.
Now starting his second year at the helm, so to speak, Tom and his chef, Mike Greenwood, sat down with the Spy last week to talk about the new 2023 season for Capsize and why they love working in one of the country’s most charming small towns.
This video is approximately three minutes in length. For more information about Capsize and its opening in April please go here.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The game of golf typically is picked up later in life for most of us, but that’s not the case with Dan Greaves. In fact, the director of Hearthstone’s golf program can literally say he grew up with the sport.
Born on a large Queen Anne’s County farm that eventually was sold to create one of the region’s most popular golf courses, Dan and his family watched in amazement as their backyard was transformed from wheat fields and trackers to putting greens and golf carts. In no time, Dan found every opportunity to play that course, which eventually led to a lifetime career as a professional golf pro and instructor.
When Dan took over as the director of the golf program at Hearthstone, he had a number of goals for his students. The first was to make them better players; the second was to use Hearthstone’s training expertise to allow those players to play the game longer in their life and use cutting-edge technology to accomplish those goals.
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In the case of technology, Hearthstone is the only place on the Eastern Shore that has offered a custom-made HD Golf simulator. With the use of 3-D modeling and slow action video cameras, Dan’s clients learn instantly why they have been hitting the ball the wrong way and seemingly countless data points on speed, body position, and stroke efficiency. It also offers those players the ability to plug in up to 300 of the most competitive golf courses in the country if they find themselves in Talbot County when it snows or rains.
The Spy stopped by Hearthstone the other day to learn more.
This video is approximately four minutes in length. To learn more about Hearthstone’s golf program please go here.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
