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Artificial Intelligence Conference Explores Advancements and Challenges

On Friday, April 5, the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board will host a highly anticipated Artificial Intelligence Conference at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College. This event promises a deep dive into the multifaceted landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for government, business, and academia.

The conference, commencing at 8 a.m., will feature keynote speaker Dr. Jill Schiefelbein, esteemed AI researcher and president of The Dynamic Communicator, Inc. Dr. Schiefelbein’s extensive experience working with renowned organizations such as American Express, McGraw-Hill, and the U.S. Military, coupled with her insightful publications, positions her as a leading authority in the field. She also serves as chief experience officer and partner at Render, a Digital Likeness company.

“I’m thrilled to engage with this diverse community across business, government, and educational sectors,” expressed Dr. Schiefelbein. “Artificial intelligence, when used well, can be a tool to solve problems, overcome barriers, and create positive change, and I look forward to exploring those aspects of AI with our audience on April 5.”

Distinguished panelists include Kelly Schultz, CEO of Maryland Technology Council; Brian Cleary, CIO for Qlarant in Easton; Tim Kulp, chief innovation officer at Mind Over Machines; Joyce Hunter, former interim CIO for the USDA and current program director for F3Tech; Dr. Tara Downes and Renee Hesson, representing Caroline County Public Schools; Michael Harvey, John Toll associate professor of business management at Washington College; and Justin Malecki, radiologic sciences program director at Chesapeake College. Moderating the discussion will be Fred Christie, chief information officer with Easton Utilities.

“Artificial Intelligence is growing in both capability and its effects on the business community, workforce, government, and academia,” remarked Dan Schneckenburger, executive director of the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board. “We all are starting to see the impacts, and this will continue into the future.

“The conference is designed to educate all on the current status of artificial intelligence so they will feel more comfortable with the options available to them,” he says. “As a workforce investment board, we are interested in the impacts on the workforce now and over time, and this change in labor needs will certainly impact economic development on the Upper Shore.”

Attendees can anticipate dynamic discussions encompassing government policies, educational strategies, workforce implications, and business innovations, culminating at noon. The conference is proudly sponsored by the Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board, Chesapeake College, and the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

Registration and further details are available at www.uswib.org/ai-conference.

MES Visual Arts Pre-teen of the Week—Jade McConnell

STEVENSVILLE — Jade McConnell is a talented 5th grade artist at Matapeake Elementary. According to Jade’s art teacher Mrs. Shannon Francis, her talent in art is seen every single day. Her artwork has recently been selected for display at numerous shows, including the prestigious Academy Art Museum’s Mid-Shore Exhibition and annually at Kent Island High’s annual Artscene. Her passion for the arts and creativity shines in all her art endeavors. She strives to push the boundaries of where her art can go and continues to try new processes, techniques and materials in each of her artworks.

“I like art because it’s unique and different,” said Jade. “You get to express your emotions and that’s one thing I really like about art. Making art just makes me feel happy and calm. I am inspired by how I feel and the artwork that I see.”

When asked what she likes to draw, Jade says she enjoys drawing people and experimenting in her sketchbooks.

“I think of an idea and draw it. Now I’m starting a graphic novel about two little characters that are going on an adventure about art. I’m going to research famous artists and artworks, and art history. The characters are one little frog and a dinosaur. Frogs are one of my favorite animals and I thought a dinosaur to go with it would be a good idea.”

In addition to drawing, and creating narratives with her artwork, she also likes working with clay.

“I like getting all messy, it’s fun, just experimenting with the clay is fun,” said Jade.

She says one day she wants to become an illustrator, author, or both.

“I am going to sell some of my artwork that I created. They are paintings on canvases. I like really bright colors of paint. I like doing ombre effects with watercolors. I have a spray paint painting of outer space where I used a bowel as a stencil for a planet and I sprayed over it for the circle,” said Jade.

Mrs. Francis shared, “As Jade’s art teacher, I am proud and excited to see what lies ahead for her in the art world. Jade inspires her peers to persevere through encouragement and shares her creative ideas of possibilities for their artwork. Jade allows herself to take risks and bring her art to the next level, looking for where details or pops of color can be added. She is an artist who continually strives to explore the art world in all it encompasses.”

Look to see Jade’s artwork, along with many of her peers at ArtScene 2024 at Kent Island High School on Thursday, April 25th, starting at 5pm!

U.S. Senator Van Hollen Pledges Support to For All Seasons

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen recently visited For All Seasons to discuss the state of mental health on the Shore. During the Senator’s Eastern Shore tour of agricultural and seafood industry sites, For All Seasons was the only non-profit Van Hollen toured. In addition to For All Seasons leadership and staff, other guests in attendance included For All Seasons Co-Founder, Karen M. Kaludis, Esq., Scott Warner, Executive Director Mid-Shore Regional Council; Cassandra VanHooser, Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism Director; Holly DeKarske Easton Economic Development Director; County Council Member, Keasha Haythe, Ward 1; Council Member Maureen Curry, Ward 4; Council Member Rev. Elmer Neal Davis Jr.; Council President Frank Gunsallus; and representatives from offices of Senator Cardin, and Congressman Harris and Comptroller Lierman.

As the mental health and Rape Crisis Center of the Mid-Shore, For All Seasons serves everyone regardless of ability to pay, providing a safety net across more than 22% of Maryland’s geography. The agency offers a unique vantage point on the mental health care needs of rural Maryland while also serving every county in the state through telehealth.

“Mental healthcare needs are often not met in many rural communities across the country because adequate services are not present due to accessibility to care, availability of health professionals, affordability due to lack of insurance, and acceptability due to the stigma in small communities,” commented Beth Anne Dorman, President and CEO of For All Seasons.

The tour provided officials an opportunity to see how For All Seasons is continuing to address all of these barriers to support its rural community and beyond.

One example shared was how this year, For All Seasons staff continues to work on Hooper’s Island with the seasonal workers there to provide information on a variety of community services. Dorman added, “When it comes to the economic health and development in this region, you can’t have success without mental health services for all of the people. I’ve always said if you care about homelessness, you have to care about mental health and if you care about affordable housing, you’ve got to care about mental health. Seeing how economic development is really blossoming in this community and then being able to tie in the impact of accessible mental health is something that I think people don’t always connect.”

“Thank you for your vision and leadership that has made For All Seasons become such an essential part of the fabric of the community. This effort has grown because the need is there and continues to grow . . . we want to continue to support your efforts in every way,” commented Senator Van Hollen.

“This really is a team effort and you and your folks here are the quarterback of this team. We just want to help make you successful. I really think that your model of having an open door so that anybody who’s in crisis can come through and ultimately, they don’t have to worry about the bill that they will get at the end of the day,” he added.

Karen Kaludis, one of the founders of For All Seasons who was in attendance, recalled meeting Senator Van Hollen when he first came into office, stating, “One of the things that impressed us the most was that you believed everyone deserved to have rights and services . . . We started in the ‘80s with one and a half employees and look where we are now with nearly 100 employees and a budget of over $10 million. But the thing is, we can do so much more and I know we will do so much more. Thank you for keeping your promises and keeping your ethics and keeping your drive.”

This past year, the trauma-certified team at For All Seasons impacted thousands of lives on the Eastern Shore and across the state, delivering 50,000+ critical services. For All Seasons continues to grow with offices in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Talbot, and Queen Anne’s counties and through telehealth.

Senator Van Hollen’s visit comes at a time when For All Seasons has requested substantial financial support from the state and Federal government through capital budget inclusions, local bond initiatives, and congressionally directed spending to support the agency’s facilities.

“As we grow, we are looking for creative ways to meet the increased demand on our facilities and staffing. In our current facilities, we have run out of space and need to expand our physical presence to continue meeting the level of need in our community. That’s why support from our Federal and state leaders is so important. We can’t show up for our community without the support and investments of our public partners. Having Senator Van Hollen and other officials visit our agency gave us a unique opportunity to tell that story and look for new ways we can collaborate,” added Dorman.

For All Seasons provides the highest quality mental health and victim services to children, adults, and families across Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Services are offered in both English and Spanish and include therapy, psychiatry, victim advocacy, 24-hour crisis hotlines, outreach, and community education. For information about For All Seasons walk-in hours, contact For All Seasons at 410-822-1018 or visit ForAllSeasonsInc.org.

KIHS Visual Arts Teen of the Week—Lexi Harris

STEVENSVILLE — Lexi Harris, a senior at Kent Island High School (KIHS), initially joined Andrea Schulte’s 2-D Studio Art I class as a sophomore after transferring to the school. Taking the only available seat at the front, little did she realize that she would swiftly emerge as a prominent figure within the department, earning numerous accolades across various mediums, while also forging friendships with many of her peers in this unfamiliar school environment.

As a sophomore, Lexi’s work stood out among her peers. Her visual journals were mini masterpieces, and every assignment exceeded Mrs. Schulte’s expectations to the extent that Schulte recruited her to join the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) mid-year, a step she had never taken before.

“Lexi had the character, work ethic, and personality of a leader,” said Schulte. “I knew her contributions would be amazing, so I saw no point in waiting for the following fall.”

In her junior year, Lexi wholeheartedly embraced her role in NAHS, contributing to numerous service projects and attending every meeting and function. Her artwork earned her a Regional Honorable Mention in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, victory in the QAC Opioid Awareness Poster Contest, and the ‘Best Media Mash’ award at ArtScene 2023.

As a senior, Lexi’s artistic endeavors continue to earn recognition. She secured 2nd place at the True Colors Mental Health Art Show, and her Upcycled Peacock Sculpture from Ms. Nenno’s 3-D Studio Art class clinched 1st Place at the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Recycled Art Show.

“It comes as no surprise that Lexi is now our NAHS Vice President, leading numerous service projects and helping our thriving art department maintain its reputation as an art family,” shared Schulte.

“I see myself being a successful artist in whichever form, but I’m open to evolving and growing along the way,” said Lexi, who is currently interning at Island Ink, gaining insights into the tattoo industry. “I’m being challenged to grow in a new media. I love it all—2-D art, sculpture, clothes, tattoos, my commission work… I’m just a creative person and a perfectionist in everything that I do.”

Lexi recently earned another Honorable Mention and a staggering 7 Scholastic Art Regional Gold Key awards, qualifying her works for the national competition.

She has been accepted to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), UMBC, and Towson University so far, with plans to major in Illustration and Business Management.

“Lexi has loved art since she was a toddler,” shared Lexi’s mother, Teresa. “We have spent many hours painting, drawing, and creating various arts and crafts over the years. I think I first realized Lexi was an extraordinary artist when she won an Honorable Mention at an art gallery when she was just four years old. She sold her first work at age nine and has sold several other works since then. She will often work late into the night to ensure that her creations are exactly how she wants them to be. I am so very proud of Lexi and all that she has accomplished.”

Mrs. Schulte says Lexi’s leadership is something she’s come to rely on.

“She has such a special way about her, and she’s become a magnet for her peers who need advice. She’s the first one to stop what she’s doing to give her full attention to someone who needs another set of eyes. Her feedback is so thoughtful and honest and highly valued among her peers. Lexi is one of those very few once-in-a-lifetime students that you know you’ll look back on and be proud to have had a small role in [helping shape] their future. She’s an even more amazing human than she is an artist, and that’s really saying something.”

Michael Bell, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts for QACPS said, “Lexi has a special gift, and I’ve seen her work grow and evolve under Mrs. Schulte and Ms. Nenno’s mentorship. She has such a unique style that often combines very detailed black and white areas of her work coupled with intense pops of color. She has an extremely bright future ahead in the arts.”

You can see her work showcased at the Annual Mid-Shore Student Art Exhibition at the Academy Art Museum, and her entire portfolio will be on display at ArtScene 2024 on April 25th from 5 – 8 pm at Kent Island High.

Queen Anne’s County Animal Services Launches Promotional Mascot Program to Engage Local Businesses in Animal Adoption Efforts

Queen Anne’s County Animal Services (QACAS) is thrilled to introduce a partnership opportunity for local businesses: the Promotional Mascot Program. This unique initiative invites businesses to join hands with QACAS in promoting adoptable pets and aiding in their quest for forever homes.

The Promotional Mascot Program offers an easy and meaningful way for businesses to contribute to their community while enhancing their brand image. Participating businesses will have the chance to showcase an adoptable pet as their promotional mascot, effectively becoming advocates for pet adoption.

“We are excited to launch the Promotional Mascot Program and engage local businesses in our mission to find loving homes for our animals,” said Sarah Rondeau, Outreach and Volunteer Coordinator at Queen Anne’s County Animal Services. “This program not only benefits our furry friends but also provides businesses with a unique opportunity to make a positive impact in the community.”

By partnering with QACAS, businesses will receive all the necessary materials to display their chosen adoptable pet, from posters to promotional materials. This collaborative effort promises to evoke a sense of fulfillment and community spirit among participants.

“We invite businesses of all sizes to consider joining us in this noble cause,” added Rondeau. “Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of animals in need.”

For more information on how your business can participate in the Promotional Mascot Program, please contact Sarah, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, at srondeau@qac.org.
Join us in spreading love and compassion throughout our community. Together, let’s give these deserving animals the loving homes they deserve.

QACPS Band Programs Shine at Maryland District Band Festival

CENTREVILLE —The music departments of Kent Island High School (KIHS) and Queen Anne’s County High School (QACHS) are thrilled to share their outstanding achievements at the Maryland District V Band Festival.

Both schools delivered exceptional performances that captivated and impressed the judges. QACHS’ Combined Concert Band, under the direction of Mr. Wright, garnered unanimous praise, earning a coveted rating of “Excellent.”

The Buccaneers from KIHS traveled with both their Symphonic Band (comprising 10th-12th graders) and their Concert Band (comprising 9th graders). To the delight of all, each band received “Superior” ratings from every judge, a remarkable feat that showcases their talent, dedication and hard work. This stellar achievement qualifies Mrs. Scully’s Symphonic Band to advance to the prestigious Maryland State Band Festival in May.

Of particular note is the KIHS Concert Band’s accomplishment, as this is the first time in the program’s history that they have earned Superior ratings. This milestone underscores the commitment of both students and educators to excellence in musical performance.

The combined efforts of the Kent Island High and Queen Anne’s County High band programs continue to inspire and uplift both students and audiences alike, demonstrating the power of music to inspire, and transcend boundaries.

To catch a recent interview with both QACPS Band Directors and learn more about their journeys, visit ArtScene | the Podcast on Spotify here, with a bonus 15-minute segment featuring both Band Directors here.

Tidewater Rotary Club Strikes Success at Bowling Fundraiser for Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center

The Tidewater Rotary Club hosted its annual Bowling Fundraiser event on Monday, March 11, at Easton Bowl. This year’s theme, the “World Cup of Bowling,” brought together community members and businesses with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center.
Participants enjoyed an evening filled with strikes, spares, and camaraderie as they bowled for a purpose. Attendees had the opportunity to represent various World Cup countries, donning outfits inspired by their favorite players and nations. The event also featured raffle prizes and awards for top teams, best dressed, and team spirit, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The fundraiser was successful in raising $5000 for the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center (ChesMRC), an organization dedicated to empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to become successful and engaged members of the community. Through lane sponsorships and donations, attendees contributed to ChesMRC’s mission of fostering a multi-culturally vibrant population on the Eastern Shore.
“The support from our community at events like the Bowling Fundraiser is instrumental in furthering ChesMRC’s initiatives,” said ChesMRC Executive Director Matthew Peters. “We are grateful to the Tidewater Rotary Club and all participants for their generosity and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion.”
As part of the Tidewater Rotary Club’s ongoing efforts to uphold its motto of “Service Above Self,” the event exemplified the club’s dedication to supporting local organizations and fostering goodwill within the community.
“We are thrilled with the success of this year’s Bowling Fundraiser,” said Tidewater Rotary Club President Childlene Brooks. “The funds raised will make a meaningful difference in supporting the important work of the Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center.”
The Tidewater Rotary Club extends its gratitude to all sponsors, donors, participants, and volunteers who contributed to the success of the event. Together, they exemplified the spirit of giving back and making a positive impact on the community.
For more information about the Tidewater Rotary Club and upcoming events, please follow the club on Facebook @TidewaterRotary and visit www.tidewaterrotary.org.

Queen Anne’s County Master Gardeners Announce 9th Annual Plant Sale

Queen Anne’s County Master Gardeners are busy getting ready for their 9th Annual Plant Sale slated for Saturday, May 11th at the University of Maryland Extension-Queen Anne’s County Office (505 Railroad Ave, Centreville, MD 21617) from 8:30-11:30, rain or shine.


In addition to mingling with a group of passionate and knowledgeable gardeners, you can buy plants, introduce the kids to pollinator-friendly gardening, or ask questions about your landscape. You are welcome to request advice about flowers, fruits, vegetable beds, and plants that can beautify your yard and provide a friendly habitat for wildlife like songbirds, butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds at our ‘Ask A Master Gardener Plant Clinic.’ Master Gardeners are volunteers who are trained by the University of Maryland Extension and will help you select the perfect plant for your garden. Maybe you’ve been longing to have some herbs by the kitchen door, or finding the most delicious variety of heirloom tomatoes, or try a new kind of pepper but don’t know how or where to find the plant (like the fish pepper or shishito pepper). Master Gardeners will be there to assist you on your gardening journey.
For further information please call or reasonable accommodations to participate in this event email the University of Maryland Extension Queen Anne’s County, Senior Agent Associate for Horticulture and Master Gardener Coordinator, Rachel J. Rhodes, at 410-758-0166 or rjrhodes@umd.edu by Friday, April 26, 2024, or see us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/QueenAnnesCountyMasterGardeners
University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class.

CBMM hosts Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival on April 20-21

CBMM hosts Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival on April 20-21

ST. MICHAELS, Md., March 6, 2024 – The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum will kick off its festival season by hosting the Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival on April 20–21.

The popular celebration of all things sea glass will run 10am–5pm on Saturday and 10am–4pm on Sunday, with all tickets valid for admission on both days. Tickets are on sale now at cbmm.org/seaglassfestival, with discounted pricing for CBMM members.

Now held twice annually on CBMM’s waterfront campus, the Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival offers fun for the whole family with fantastic shopping, great food and drinks, live music on two stages, and more.

This edition will highlight more than 90 exhibitors from around the country. These artisans and craftspeople will be selling an array of unique coastal and sea-glass related goods, including jewelry, home décor, art, and more. A full listing of vendors and more information can be found at seaglassfestival.com.

In addition, sea glass expert Mary McCarthy will be on hand both days to share her expertise with a series of sea-glass focused lectures in the Van Lennep Auditorium and shard identification before and after the talks.

“I’m excited to bring back educational lectures during the upcoming festival,” Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival Founder and Organizer Kim Hannon said. “We have returning and new artisans and musicians who are bringing their unique talents and creations, so if you’re new to the festival or have been coming for years, the festival will have something for everyone to hear, see, and do!”

While enjoying all the Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival vendors and offerings, guests are invited to explore the exhibitions and historic structures spread across CBMM’s campus and experience the new storytelling and amenities in its new Welcome Center. Food and beverages will be available for purchase both days, including craft beer and specialty cocktails.

On Navy Point, the historic Tolchester Beach Bandstand will feature live music from local acts throughout the weekend. Chris Sacks Band (10am–1pm) and The Boh’s Band (1:30-5pm) are set to take the stage on Saturday, while Jeff Washington (10am–1pm) and Anna Burgess (1:30–4pm) will provide Sunday’s entertainment there.

The Fogg’s Landing Stage on the opposite side of campus will spotlight Dave Hawkins (10am-1pm) and Burgess (1:30-5pm) on Saturday and Bobby Reed (10am-1pm) and Jayme D (1:30-4pm) on Sunday.

Both days at 11am, McCarthy will lead programming in the Van Lennep Auditorium. Saturday’s session will cover strategies for protecting and appreciating sea glass as a diminishing resource, while Sunday’s talk will tackle spotting the difference between real and artificial sea glass.

The cruise boat PATRIOT will also be opening its season that weekend. Guests can save on Narrated Historical Cruises at 12:30pm and 2:30pm both days by using code SEAGLASS2024 during checkout at patriotcruises.com to save $10 off adult and senior tickets. (Note: This discount is available online only and cannot be redeemed at the ticket booth.)

The two-day festival ticket is $10 for CBMM member adults and active members of the military; $22 for non-member adults; $19 for seniors (age 65 and up) and college students; $18 for retired military; $7 for non-member children ages 6–17; and free for member children 6–17, and all children 5-and-under. CBMM members at the Family & Friends level and above can also receive the $10 discounted admission for two adult guests.

Guests who purchase their tickets in advance will have a special opportunity to enter the festival 30 minutes early at 9:30am. Ticket sales at the door begin at 10am. No single-day tickets will be sold to this rain-or-shine event.

In addition to discounted special event pricing, CBMM members enjoy free general admission as well as access to exclusive discounts, perks, programming, and CBMM’s virtual portal. For more information on becoming a member, visit cbmm.org/memberships or contact Membership Services Coordinator Debbie Ruzicka at 410-745-4991 or druzicka@cbmm.org.

During the festival, additional free event parking will be available at St. Michaels Middle/High School, with a complimentary shuttle service to and from CBMM running both days.

For safety reasons, non-service dogs need to be kept home during CBMM festivals, including the Eastern Shore Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival. Carry-on alcohol from dock or land is prohibited.

Colorful Quilt Show to Open at Faces

The Fiber Arts Center is pleased to introduce our next quilt exhibitor, Colette Metcalf! Colette has been quilting since the 1980’s and is a prolific and talented quilter and teacher. She loves to make all types of
genres of quilts and is particularly fond of hand embroidery. She is always looking for new techniques to incorporate into her quilting classes. She presently volunteers at Our Refuge of Sinners Catholic
Church and teaches a group called “The Dorchester Samplers”. Her absolute passion is to teach beginner quilters and she enjoys watching her students improve their quilting skills. Come see this lovely Irish
quilter’s wonderful quilt display. You’ll be in for such a treat!

Dates: March 13 through May 11, 2024
Location: The Fiber Arts Center, 7 N. 4th St., Denton, MD. 21639
Hours: Weds., Thurs., Fri. and Saturdays, 12-4:00pm

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