Danielle Espinoza just returned from the Deliver Service Now institute’s Making The Magic Customer Service Boot Camp held at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL. Already providing excellent customer/client service, Danielle, of Realty Navigator, wanted to truly “Disnify” their business.

While providing exceptional customer service in today’s business climate is imperative, the concepts learned at the Boot Camp transcend time. Attendees developed their “Customer Service Manifesto” that included: Creating a WOW experience, focusing on the details, “Plussing” (Walt Disney’s term for improvement), and how Disney uses processes on a daily basis to manage 85,000 employees and create magical vacations for its guests.

In creating their own customer service manifesto to bring back to their business and implement with their team, Danielle is publicly declaring that customer service is of profound importance. Some companies even sent their entire team so they could emulate the Disney way.

Showing admiration for Disney’s business model, Danielle discovered the behind-the-scenes processes that make Disney hum like a well-oiled machine (que the Dwarves singing Hi-Ho, Hi-Ho). Touring the backstage areas and spending time in class, Danielle discovered the specific actions that create great customer experiences.

Vance Morris, Principal at the Deliver Service Now institute, who conducted the boot camp, had this to say: “Danielle learned how Disney creates the magic every day. He/She created a blueprint and manifesto based on my process, Systematic Magic, to create a service powerhouse in their city. ” Morris continued, “Having a world-class operation and being the Disney of Real Estate on Kent Island will certainly separate them from all competition.”

Danielle Espinoza is ready to help turn your real estate dreams into reality. If you’re looking for an agent who will listen to your needs, advocate for your best interests, and guide you with confidence every step of the way, call her today at 443-945-1910 or email her at: DanielleE@Realtynavigator.com

Realty Navigator is a full-service, independently owned, and operated real estate brokerage with offices in Annapolis and Chester, MD. We provide customized real estate listing services, including residential homes and land for sale, spanning from Brandywine in Prince George’s County to Anne Arundel County and Kent Island, as well as Talbot, Caroline, and Queen Anne’s Counties. Office: 443-599-9816 or email info@realtynavigator.com

The snow and ice have almost completely melted at Adkins Arboretum, making the ground super soft. The trails are clear, but boots are recommended, as some spots are muddy.

Spring is now just one month away, and we’re offering several programs to prepare for and celebrate the coming season. Here are a few highlights that you’ll want to add to your calendar.

There are only four seats remaining on our Philadelphia Flower Show Bus Trip. The theme of this year’s show is Rooted: Origins of American Gardening. Through immersive garden exhibits and stunning floral displays, the show will bring to life the personal stories, cultural traditions, and horticultural inspiration that connect us to plants, each other, and shape how we garden today.

You’re bound to return home with fresh ideas for your garden.

Permaculture is fascinating and Justinian Dispenza, founder of the Eastern Shore Permaculture Institute, will teach us why in Permaculture 101.

Permaculture integrates land, resources, people and the environment through mutually beneficial synergies – imitating the no waste, closed loop systems seen in diverse natural systems. Permaculture studies and applies holistic solutions that are applicable in rural and urban contexts at any scale.

Justinian will cover the “Ten Principles” of permaculture and discuss ways to integrate them into your garden, your home, your organizations, and your personal life.

Our popular Soup ‘n Walk programs begin again in March with Blossoms, Birds, and Frogs of Early Spring. We’ll begin with a guided group walk led by a knowledgeable Docent naturalist, who will highlight early signs of Spring. After working up an appetite, the group will gather in the Gallery for a catered lunch of chicken and kale soup, red beet salad, dill cottage cheese bread, and chocolate cupcake topped with cherry.

Some of our Visitors attended all six Soup ‘n Walk programs offered throughout the year. They’re a wonderful way to experience the Arboretum’s seasonal changes.

Spring Nature Journaling is a three-session class that takes place outside. You’ll learn to create a personal interpretation of what you see, know, and think about nature from Diane DuBois Mullaly, fine artist and Maryland Master Naturalist.

With her keen eye for color and design, and endless curiosity about everything in nature, Diane helps people find delightful connections between art and science in the great outdoors. This class requires no previous art experience, and students may opt to purchase materials when they register.

Finally, our Spring Native Plant Sale goes live March 5 for Arboretum Members, and March 7 for the general public. Now’s a great time to join or renew your Membership, because Members always receive a discount on plants.

Our Native Plant Sales are unique as they’re conducted entirely online. After placing an order, customers will receive a confirmation email with instructions on scheduling a pick-up appointment in late–April through early–May.

A link to the sale will be shared the day it begins. Watch for updates on social media and in our weekly emails.

With the endorsement of conservative Republican Congressman Andy Harris on the first day of his campaign, Barry Donadio officially filed his candidacy for Queen Anne’s County Commissioner, District 3, on February 17, 2026.

Donadio’s campaign is built on one clear message: “We Come First.”

A lifelong conservative Republican, Donadio has a long record of service to the Republican Party. In 2014, he was elected to the Queen Anne’s County Republican Central Committee and successfully completed his four-year term. In January 2017, he was appointed Sergeant at Arms of the Maryland Republican Party, a position he continues to hold.

During Maryland’s May 14, 2024 primary election, Donadio was elected Alternate Delegate to the Republican National Convention after receiving more than 50,000 votes in Maryland’s 1st Congressional District. He was officially endorsed by the Trump campaign and selected as one of only three Trump Alternate Delegates from the district.

Donadio was one of the first Republican leaders in Maryland to publicly endorse President Donald J. Trump in November 2022 for the 2024 presidential race. In 2024, he also endorsed U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley, and Congressman Andy Harris. Congressman Harris’ endorsement in this county commissioner race is seen as a major development. The Congressman has also pledged financial support to Donadio’s campaign.

A Focus on Traffic, Smart Development, and Quality of Life

District 3 encompasses eastern Kent Island and Grasonville — beautiful communities that residents say are increasingly burdened by traffic congestion and overdevelopment.

“The citizens are angry about overdevelopment on Kent Island that has only made traffic worse,” Donadio said. “I am going to put an end to development that harms our quality of life.”

Donadio supports rational, responsible development — particularly in areas of the county where infrastructure can support growth without worsening traffic on Kent Island. He opposes unnecessary projects that increase congestion in what is already one of the county’s primary traffic choke points.

Public Safety First

Donadio is a strong supporter of law enforcement and first responders. He pledges full support to Queen Anne’s County police, fire, EMS, and emergency personnel.

“The safety and security of our residents must come first. Our children deserve a county free from crime and drugs.”

Supporting Veterans

“I want our veterans to receive property tax breaks,” Donadio said.

As a veteran himself, Donadio plans to work with veterans groups to advocate for property tax relief and expanded housing support for those who served our nation.

Seniors, Disabled Residents, and Families in Crisis

Donadio has expressed strong interest in expanding senior services and exploring potential tax relief for senior citizens. He also supports expanding transportation services for disabled residents to improve accessibility and independence.

After personally experiencing the financial burden of a dry residential well, Donadio is proposing property tax relief measures for families facing emergencies such as well failure or home loss due to fire.

“No family should be left without help in a crisis,” he said.

Fiscal Responsibility

Donadio has pledged to vote against property tax increases and to support a balanced, responsible county budget.

“I am not running for Commissioner for retirement benefits,” Donadio stated. “As a veteran, I already have healthcare. I will introduce reforms to ensure commissioners must serve the same length of time as other county employees to qualify for retiree health benefits.”

Unity and Respect

Donadio emphasized unity within Queen Anne’s County, noting the service of more than 455 U.S. Colored Troops from the county during the Civil War. He supports the Queen Anne’s County Veterans Committee’s initiative to erect a statue honoring a Black Civil War soldier.

“We all have each other’s backs here,” Donadio said. “I will stand against discrimination, nepotism, and unfair treatment.”

Experience and Leadership

Barry Donadio was born in Bay Shore, New York, and has served honorably in the military, volunteer fire and ambulance services, law enforcement, and the United States Secret Service, where he was assigned to the White House and protected Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

He is the recipient of numerous military honors, including:

• Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal
• Air Force Commendation Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• New York State Medal for Merit
• New York State Conspicuous Service Star
• Long & Faithful Medal

In 2013, Donadio founded Public Security LLC, a private investigation and security firm serving high-risk clients.

He is also a published author, best known for TWA Flight 800 First Responder Witness Account, detailing his firsthand experience during the July 17, 1996 disaster response. He has written six additional books and appears in five works by other authors.

Campaign Leadership

• Campaign Chairman: Mike Arntz, former Chair of the Queen Anne’s County Republican Central Committee
• Campaign Treasurer: James Appel, Comptroller of the Maryland Republican Party

Authority: Friends of Barry Donadio, Treasurer James Appel

The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners are actively seeking individuals to fill a vacancy on the Commission on Aging. The Commission on Aging was formed at the inception of the Department of Aging in 1981 as an advisory body, which is required by the Older Americans Act. The deadline for applications is March 20, 2026.

The Commission on Aging conducts special studies related to the elderly by the direction of the County Commissioners, evaluates programs, services, and sets priorities. The commission promotes the welfare and betterment of older adults in Queen Anne’s County and provides input on the Aging Area Plan.

The regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of every month at 10:00 a.m.

For individuals interested in serving on the Commission on Aging, the application process is accessible online at https://onboard.qac.org/. Alternatively, applicants may navigate to the official county website at qac.org and search for the specific Board or Commission to find the relevant application page.

To be considered for the vacancies, interested candidates are requested to submit their resume and a detailed letter of interest through the online application software.

The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners encourage individuals with a passion for advocacy for older adults, to apply.

Now that the Maryland General Assembly has reconvened for the 448^thLegislative Session, ShoreRivers’ advocacy efforts are in full swing. The organization’s advocacy work, which is led by your Riverkeepers, is fundamental to creating system-wide change to protect local rivers against the major issues that impact water quality on the Eastern Shore. 

Key efforts this year include the following, though additional bills and legislation are likely to be added to this list as they are introduced and prove to be in line with ShoreRivers’ mission of protecting Maryland’s Eastern Shore waterways through science-based advocacy, restoration, education, and engagement.

1. Sewage Sludge – Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances – Regulation (SB719/HB925), which will establish testing requirements to identify PFAS concentrations in biosolids – the solid waste residuals from wastewater treatment plants which are used as soil conditioners on many farms across Maryland, and require the Maryland Department of the Environment to set and phase-in, tiered concentration limits for PFOS plus PFOA in biosolids applied to agricultural land. 

2. On–Site Sewage Disposal System inspection requirements (SB165/HB146), which will require septic systems to be inspected and pumped at a property transfer or during a change of tenant in a rental home. Reasonable exceptions apply, and an inspection and pumping service is good for three years.

3. Defending important funding sources through budget advocacy will be another important priority for ShoreRivers this session. With a budget deficit pressuring Maryland legislators and advocates to “do more with less,” ShoreRivers is committed to defending historically beneficial environmental funds such as the Bay Restoration Fund, the 2010 Trust Fund, the Chesapeake Bay Trust, State Aided Institutions, the Clean Water Commerce Account, and the Maryland Agricultural Cost Share Program. Defending environmental funding isn’t just about restoration projects and facility upgrades, it’s also about enforcement and accountability. Maryland is a national leader in environmental protection. To ensure those laws are enforced properly, our agencies need adequate staffing and resources.

Note that we are also tracking legislation from state agencies and that addresses the state increased flood risks, enhances environmental grant funding, controls the spread of invasive plants, and more. To learn more about these bills and how you can be involved in Maryland’s legislative session, become an advocate volunteer at ShoreRivers today. You can also view in-depth summaries about our legislative priorities by navigating to our legislative landing page on the ShoreRivers website.

The Fiber Arts Center is sponsoring a new Maryland Chapter of the Quilts of Valor which honors our veterans. Volunteers of all skill levels are needed.

Dates:  March 10, April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, Aug. 4, 

Sept. 1, Oct. 20, Nov. 3

Time:  9:00am – 4:00pm 

Location: Fiber Arts Center of the Eastern Shore

7 N. Street Denton, MD 21629

Please call the Fiber Arts Center at 443/448-4611 or email Kay Butler at mrs.kay.butler@gmail.com for more information about the exhibit.

At a recent meeting of the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, the Department of Parks and Recreation presented several park improvement projects for approval, all aimed at enhancing safety, accessibility, and the overall experience for residents and visitors.

One of the approved projects includes a contract with Playground Specialist, Inc. to replace the existing playground surface at Old Love Point Park. The current surface consists of aging tiles that have begun curling and separating, creating safety and maintenance concerns. The new poured-in-place rubber surface will significantly improve safety and accessibility while refreshing the appearance of the playground, ensuring it remains a welcoming space for families and children.

The Department of Parks and Recreation is also moving forward with the construction and installation of a new restroom between the Bermuda fields baseball fields at White Marsh Park. The comfort station will feature men’s and women’s restrooms, including five stalls and one urinal, along with a water fountain and bottle-fill station. The facility will be serviced by both a well and the public sewage system. Construction is expected to be completed by September 1, 2026, with no anticipated disruption to spring or summer park use or athletic programming.

In addition, the Department received approval to mill, grind, and resurface portions of the trail systems at both Church Hill Park and Sudlersville Park. These trail improvements will allow for safer, smoother, and more accessible travel throughout the parks, enhancing opportunities for walking, recreation, and enjoyment of the county’s natural areas.

For more information about Parks and Recreation projects and facilities, visit www.qac.org.

Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. (MSBH) is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Workplace Excellence Series, a 10-module program designed to help participants build essential workplace soft skills that strengthen their value to prospective employers. The series equips attendees with practical tools, insight into employer expectations, and strategies to succeed in today’s competitive workforce, with a focus on supporting dislocated and long-term unemployed individuals returning to employment in Dorchester County.

The first session will be held every Thursday from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, beginning February 19th through graduation on March 12th, 2026, at the Innovation Center in Cambridge, Maryland. This class is open to Dorchester County residents. Additional classes will be announced for other Mid-Shore counties.

The Workplace Excellence Series is generously sponsored by Dorchester Temporary Shelter and the Dorchester Department of Economics. Transportation for participants will be provided by Susan Banks and Roselia Jones of Dri Dock Recovery and Wellness Center. Facilitators for the series include Jimmy Morris Jr., CWDP, DCC, and America McKinney, both Certified Workplace Excellence Facilitators with MSBH. “The Workplace Excellence Series is designed to give participants the tools they need to thrive in professional settings,” said Morris. “By combining practical skills with an understanding of employer expectations, we aim to help participants return to the workforce with confidence and success.”

For more information or to register for the Workplace Excellence Series, contact Jimmy Morris atjmorris@midshorebehavioralhealth.org, or call 410-770-4801.

As the Core Service Agency for the mid-shore region, Mid Shore Behavioral Health, Inc. is dedicated to enhancing behavioral health services for residents of Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot Counties by coordinating care and resources in collaboration with community partners. To learn more, visitwww.midshorebehavioralhealth.org.

At its February 4, 2026 Board Meeting, the Queen Anne’s County Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. Matthew Kibler as the Superintendent of Queen Anne’s County Public Schools. Dr. Kibler’s four-year term will begin on July 1, 2026.

Board of Education President Mrs. Alexis Capes shared, “As we embark on this new chapter, Dr. Kibler, our Superintendent, stands as a beacon of progress guiding Queen Anne’s County Public Schools toward a promising future. His dedication is evident in the partnerships he has fostered with the board, communities, parents, students, and staff. His genuine leadership will undoubtedly propel our students and schools toward their fullest potential.”

Dr. Kibler has served as Interim Superintendent since June 2025, providing steady leadership while advancing key system priorities focused on student achievement, organizational effectiveness, and engagement. Prior to his appointment as Interim Superintendent, he served as Assistant Superintendent and as Director of Accountability and Implementation, where he led the local implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.

Before joining Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, Dr. Kibler spent nine years at Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland, most recently serving as Assistant Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness and Analytics. He began his career in education as a high school mathematics teacher.

Dr. Kibler holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Wilmington University, a Master of Applied Statistics from Penn State, and a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Washington College.

Of his appointment, Dr. Kibler said, “I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the students, staff, and families of Queen Anne’s County in this role. In my time in the district I have seen firsthand the dedication that defines this school system and community. Together, we will build on our strengths, meet the evolving needs of our students, and ensure every learner is supported, challenged, and prepared for success. I look forward to continuing our work in partnership with families, staff, and the broader community to move Queen Anne’s County Public Schools forward.”

Dr. Kibler and his family are proud members of the Queen Anne’s County community. He and his wife, Bryn, reside in Church Hill with their two sons, who attend Queen Anne’s County Public Schools. As both a superintendent and a parent in the system, Dr. Kibler brings a personal understanding of the importance of strong schools and sustained investment in students and staff. Outside of school, he enjoys spending time with his family and cheering on his sons at soccer and baseball games throughout the county.

Talbot Family Network will host a community screening and discussion of excerpts from the documentary film Descendant as part of its ongoing Conversations on Race series. The event will take place Monday, Feb. 23, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Eastern Shore Conservation Center, 114 S. Washington St., Easton. A light dinner and refreshments will be provided.

The February program, presented in partnership with ShoreRivers, will explore environmental justice by examining how environmental conditions, historical inequities, and access to decision-making power continue to shape health, opportunity, and belonging in communities.

Descendant tells the story of descendants of survivors of the Clotilda, the last known ship to carry enslaved Africans to the United States. The documentary follows members of the Africatown community in Alabama as they uncover their ancestors’ story, preserve cultural traditions, and confront environmental and economic challenges tied to industrial development in their community. 

The film highlights themes of resilience, environmental stewardship, and the ongoing impact of systemic inequities.

“Film is a powerful way to engage people in conversations that might otherwise feel difficult to approach,” said Nancy Andrew, executive director of Talbot Family Network. “By watching and discussing Descendant together, we hope to create space for meaningful dialogue about how history, environment, and community well-being are connected, both nationally and here on the Mid-Shore.”

Following the screening, participants will engage in a facilitated discussion designed to encourage reflection and community dialogue. 

ShoreRivers will provide local context by helping participants consider connections between the environmental justice issues highlighted in the documentary and challenges faced by communities on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

“Environmental justice is closely tied to who has a voice in decisions that affect land, water, and public health,” said ShoreRivers Senior Community Engagement Coordinator Maegan White. “This conversation offers an opportunity to connect a powerful national story to local experiences and to better understand the environmental challenges our Eastern Shore communities face.”

The event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required, and seating is limited. Registration is available at bit.ly/feb26convo.

The Conversations on Race series is held monthly from September through May, typically on the last Monday of each month. Each session is designed to stand alone while contributing to an ongoing community dialogue about race, equity, and inclusion. Partners for the 2025-26 series include Shore Lit, the Water’s Edge Museum, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, and additional community organizations.

ShoreRivers works to protect Maryland’s Eastern Shore waterways through science-based advocacy, restoration, education, and engagement, with a vision of thriving rivers cherished by all Eastern Shore communities. More information is available at shorerivers.org.

Talbot Family Network serves as Talbot County’s Local Management Board, established by the state of Maryland to improve coordination of services for children and families. The organization identifies local priorities, directs resources, and promotes collaboration among agencies and community partners. More information is available at healthytalbot.org/about/talbot-family-network/.