Nationwide Search for Replacement Underway

Charles M. “Skip” Auld, Chief Executive Officer of Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) since 2010, announced that he will retire on February 1, 2027, concluding a career spanning more than five decades in libraries and public service. 

During Auld’s tenure, AACPL expanded programming, digital resources and community partnerships while opening new library facilities across Anne Arundel County and strengthening its role as a welcoming community space for residents. 

“Skip Auld turned Anne Arundel County Public Libraries into community gathering places, social service centers, teen sanctuaries, early childhood education centers and welcoming portals to knowledge of every kind,” said Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. “His passion for the institution and the people who work in it is persistent and pervasive. He will be a hard act to follow.” 

The AACPL Board of Trustees has retained executive search firm June Garcia LLC to conduct a nationwide search for the library system’s next CEO. Under Maryland law, the board has the authority to appoint the library director. 

Board Chair Damita McDonald said the group will seek input from staff, customers, county and community leaders and other partners to help inform the selection process. Information on how to provide input will be announced at a later date. 

“We want to hear from a broad range of stakeholders,” McDonald said. “Their perspectives will help us identify the qualities and experience needed in the new CEO to guide AACPL into its next phase of service and community engagement.”  

She added, “Skip Auld has guided our library system through a period of remarkable growth and innovation. His leadership has strengthened our libraries as essential spaces for learning, connection and opportunity. The Board of Trustees thanks Skip for his years of extraordinary service to AACPL, and we congratulate him on his upcoming retirement.” 

Auld expressed confidence in the leadership transition. “I’m excited that the Board of Trustees is engaging staff, customers and community partners as it recruits my successor,” he said. “I’m confident the next CEO will lead AACPL to even greater levels of service.” 

Auld began his library career as a clerk-typist at Duke University Libraries. After earning a Master’s in Library and Information Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he worked as a reference librarian, branch manager, assistant director, and director of libraries in North Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia. At various times throughout his career, he served in professional positions including treasurer of the Maryland Library Association, co-editor of a column in Public Libraries magazine, and as a board member of the Public Library Association and the Council of the American Library Association.  

During his tenure with AACPL, the library system expanded staffing, programming and facilities, including the construction of the Michael E. Busch Annapolis Library, Riviera Beach Library and Discoveries: The Library at Annapolis Mall. Planning for the new Glen Burnie Library is currently underway. 

The library system also strengthened its commitment to equity and inclusion. In 2017, the board adopted the Urban Libraries Council Statement on Race and Social Equity, and in 2020 AACPL conducted an organizational equity audit and formed an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Team. 

“I’ve loved my lifetime working in libraries,” Auld said. “Libraries spark imagination and expand access to knowledge through books, music, film, digital resources and especially through our knowledgeable staff. It has been a privilege to work with dedicated library trustees and workers in service to our community.” 

Queen Anne’s County has started planning its budget for Fiscal Year 2027, and residents are invited to follow along and take part.

County Administrator Todd Mohn will present the proposed budget to the County Commissioners on March 24. This presentation begins a series of public budget work sessions where County leaders review funding needs, discuss priorities, and discuss how County dollars are spent.

Upcoming Budget Work Sessions at 207 N Liberty Street, Centreville (all start at 5:00 p.m.):

• March 26: Board of Education, Library, Emergency Services, Sheriff’s Office
• March 31: Parks & Recreation, Public Works
• April 9: Outside Agency Grants and other County departments

During these work sessions, Commissioners review revenues and expenses, ask questions, and discuss funding for services residents rely on, such as public safety, parks, roads, and community programs. All sessions are open to the public as part of the County’s commitment to transparency.

A Municipal Tax Set-Off Hearing will be held on April 14 during the Commissioners’ regular meeting.

All budget meetings will broadcast live on Breezeline Channel 7/507, as well as on QACTV’s YouTube and Facebook pages and qac.org/live, where recordings will also be available afterward.

The proposed budget will be released on April 29, posted online at qac.org, and mailed to residents. Public hearings, where residents can share comments and feedback are tentatively scheduled for May 18–20.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and get involved.
For more information and updates, visit qacbudget.org.

The Historic Sites Consortium of Queen Anne’s County invites residents and visitors to explore Kent Island’s rich history through the return of First Saturdays, a free historic tour program running April through November from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The 2026 season begins on Saturday, April 4, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience several of Kent Island’s most significant historic landmarks. Each site will be open to the public with volunteers and interpreters available to share stories about the island’s past.

Visitors can enjoy free tours of the following historic locations:

Historic Christ Church (1880)
With origins dating back to the 1630s at Kent Fort and Broad Creek, Historic Christ Church is one of the most carefully preserved Victorian churches in Maryland.
121 E. Main Street, Stevensville
Contact: 410-758-2502

The Cray House (c. 1809)
The oldest house in Stevensville and one of the few surviving post-and-plank buildings in Maryland. The original section reflects the simple two-room homes common during colonial times.
106 Cockey Lane, Stevensville

Stevensville Train Station (1902)
Originally located in upper Stevensville along the tracks leading to Love Point, the depot served as a busy transportation hub until the Chesapeake Bay Bridge opened in 1952. The station was relocated to Historic Stevensville in 1988, and a 1920s-era caboose was later added to the site.
0 Cockey Lane, Stevensville

Stevensville Bank Building (1909)
The oldest bank building on Kent Island, this structure served as Stevensville’s financial center for more than 50 years. Visitors can still see original features including a pressed-tin ceiling, wood teller counter, and iron vault that reflect early 20th-century banking.
409 Love Point Road, Stevensville

Old Stevensville Post Office (c. 1877)
For generations, this building provided mail services while also serving as a central gathering place where local residents shared news and community updates.
408 Love Point Road, Stevensville

James E. Kirwan House and Store (1889)
This carefully preserved property belonged to State Senator James E. Kirwan, who led the successful effort during World War I to prevent Kent Island from becoming a military weapons testing proving ground.
641 Dominion Road (Route 552), Chester

First Saturdays, highlight the area’s deep colonial, and community heritage while providing residents and visitors with a free and engaging way to learn about the island’s historic landmarks.

For more information about the historic site tours, visit:
https://kentislandheritagesociety.org/historic-site-tours/

All the STARS were out on Saturday, March 14th for our annual Chesterwye Foundation fundraising dinner and auction event. The event hosted an evening of friends, fun, and fundraising for the Chesterwye Foundation. 

Funds raised support the re-building of the Ringgold House. The event’s festivities raised $45,000 in support of the project, and also celebrated many special people connected to the Chesterwye Center! We are now well on our way of raising the $250,000 committed to supporting the project. 

The event announced the dedication of a NEW residential home in honor of Wheeler & Holly Baker, two longtime supporters of the Chesterwye Center. Holly Baker passed away unexpectedly in early 2024.  The dedication of this new home, located in Grasonville, MD will take place on Thursday, April 30th, 2026 beginning at 4pm. SAVE THE DATE! An RSVP to attend will be distributed soon. 

The event also awarded the Thomas J. Ewing DSP of the Year Award to Craig Gibson. Craig shows up daily, advocates for the people he supports, and shows leadership within his role. 

We also took a moment to remember Jerry Pierson, a long-time friend of the Chesterwye Center and helper at the annual dinner and auction. He was always ready to sell you a slice of cake! His wife Bonnie joined us along with his daughter Kim and son-in-law Jason.

The Neighborhood Service Center will hold a Pit Beef & Turkey fundraiser on Friday, April 10, to support its food pantry and other essential services for Talbot County residents facing financial hardship.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Easton VFW, 355 Glebe Road. Meals include a pit beef or turkey sandwich, chips, and a drink for $11. Free delivery within Easton is available for orders of five or more. 

All the cooking is being done by Catering by Jamie, with all proceeds benefiting the neighbors served by the Neighborhood Service Center’s food pantry and more. 

Organizers encourage businesses and community members to place orders in advance by Friday, April 3, via email at eschoene@nsctalbotmd.org or by calling 410-822-5015.

Demand for the organization’s food pantry and support programs has grown significantly in recent months, making community fundraising efforts especially important.

“Funding support right now is absolutely critical for our pantry,” said Neighborhood Service Center Executive Director Andy Hollis. “We’re seeing increased demand this year from families who are struggling with rising costs and economic uncertainty. 

“Events like this help us keep food on the shelves,” he says, “and ensure our neighbors can get the help they need when they need it.”

The Neighborhood Service Center provides food, financial assistance, and other support services to residents across Talbot County.

Cash is preferred; with checks also accepted for the sale. More at www.nsceaston.org. 

Family-friendly two-day event returns June 6–7 to Kent Island Yacht Club with vintage vehicles, waterfront views, and youth activities

The roar of vintage engines, gleaming classic boats, and the thrill of Formula 1 racing will converge on Maryland’s Eastern Shore as the 10th annual Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival returns June 6–7, 2026, to the waterfront lawns of the Kent Island Yacht Club.

Hosted by the Kent Island Yacht Club and presented by Bentley Washington DC, the two-day celebration features antique and classic automobiles, hot rods, sports cars, motorcycles, tractors, and antique and classic boats, while motorsports fans can watch the Monaco Grand Prix festivities live throughout the weekend. Galahad Marine and the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society are sponsoring the event.

Set against the scenic Kent Narrows waterfront, the festival blends automotive and maritime heritage with a relaxed summer atmosphere. Enthusiasts and casual guests alike can stroll the show field, enjoy waterfront dining, and meet collectors from across the Mid-Atlantic. 

This year, the festival will honor the incredible contributions of first responders, veterans, watermen, and our brave fire and police teams. The day will be filled with opportunities to show your appreciation, enjoy community spirit, and hear inspiring stories.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to host the Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival at the Kent Island Yacht Club,” said KIYC Commodore Julie Orsini. “It’s a wonderful way to kick off the summer with cool cars and beautiful boats in a relaxed waterfront setting. Guests can enjoy great food, sweet treats, and a friendly gathering of enthusiasts while taking in the views of the Kent Narrows Waterway.”

A Weekend for All Types of Machines
Participants may enter vehicles or boats for one or both days, and entrants do not need to show both days to be eligible for awards.

The weekend opens Saturday with a lively Cars & Coffee-style gathering welcoming everything from vintage classics and muscle cars to motorcycles and antique tractors.

Sunday concludes with the festival’s popular drive-up awards ceremony, featuring the same lighthearted and unusual award categories that have become a fan favorite.

Racing Takes Center Stage
The festival takes place during Monaco Grand Prix weekend, giving visitors the chance to watch one of the world’s most famous races while enjoying the show.

Televisions in the Kent Island Yacht Club bar will broadcast the race, and a large-screen viewing will take place during the club’s Sunday Champagne Brunch beginning at 9 a.m.

Family-Friendly Fun

Organizers have made this year’s festival especially welcoming for families, with free and discounted admission and youth activities.

Discounted advance online tickets are $20 each and good for both days, providing guests access to the yacht club the entire weekend, with youth ages 15 and under admitted free. Otherwise, admission is $25 good for both days after May 27^th.

Young guests can participate in a spirited Pinewood Derby Grand Prix race, with a special award each day for the winner. Youth and scout groups may bring their own Pinewood Derby racecars or decorate and personalize one provided at the festival before joining the race.

Waterfront Setting

Guests can also enjoy live entertainment, local food vendors, craft beverages, and waterfront views throughout the weekend.

Visitors arriving by boat may inquire about dockage at the Kent Island Yacht Club, though space is limited.

Entrant applications for cars, motorcycles, tractors, and boats, along with advance tickets and more information, are available at www.chesapeakebaymotoringfestival.org.

The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners are currently seeking individuals to fill vacancies on several County boards and commissions. The deadline for applications is April 30, 2026.

Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board
Advises the County governing body regarding the review and approval of agricultural preservation easements purchased by the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation within the County. The board also makes recommendations on lot exclusions, agricultural subdivisions, and farm employee dwellings.

Bay Bridge Airport Advisory Committee
Investigates, reviews, and makes recommendations regarding the current and future use of the Bay Bridge Airport and its facilities. The committee periodically reviews airport operating procedures to ensure compatibility with the welfare of the community and promotes the airport as an economic, recreational, and educational asset while fostering positive community relations.

Board of Electrical Examiners
Examines the qualifications and capabilities of individuals who are engaged in, or wish to engage in, the business of master, journeyperson, or restricted electrician. The board also performs additional functions as outlined under Chapter 11 of the County Code.

Department of Emergency Services Advisory Council
Advises the Department of Emergency Services on matters of policy related to the provision of emergency services within Queen Anne’s County. The council also provides recommendations regarding equipment, standard operating procedures, protocols, medications, and training and education requirements for emergency services personnel. In addition, the council assists with public information and education related to emergency services.

Historic Stevensville Arts & Entertainment District Committee
Supports the development, promotion, and sustainability of the Historic Stevensville Arts & Entertainment District. The committee works to foster diverse artistic and cultural opportunities that preserve the community’s sense of place, attract tourism, and encourage economic revitalization and neighborhood pride.

Housing Authority
Works to provide decent, safe, and affordable housing for residents of Queen Anne’s County. The authority may acquire, own, lease, and operate housing projects; oversee construction or improvements to housing facilities; administer rent subsidy payments for eligible residents; and study and address local housing conditions.

Police Accountability Board
Oversees certain aspects of police accountability under Maryland law, including reviewing matters related to police conduct and disciplinary processes. The board is part of the statewide framework established to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement.

Social Services Board
Serves in an advisory capacity to the Director of Social Services. Board members act as liaisons between the department and the community, bringing forward local concerns and sharing information with residents. The board also participates in the process of selecting the Director of Social Services and completing the Director’s annual performance evaluation in coordination with the Maryland Department of Human Services.

Board of License Commissioners (Liquor Board)
Responsible for reviewing alcoholic beverage license applications, issuing licenses and renewals, enforcing applicable laws, and maintaining and updating local alcoholic beverage regulations.

Individuals interested in serving on a board or commission can access the application online at https://onboard.qac.org/. Applicants may also visit the County’s official website at qac.org and search for the specific board or commission to locate the application page.

Residents of Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot Counties are encouraged to mark their calendars for the Spring 2026 Midshore Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Drop-Off Day.

• Saturday, April 11, 2026
  8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  Queen Anne’s County Public Works
  312 Safety Drive, Centreville, MD 21617

HHW Drop- Off Day will be held rain or shine and is free to Midshore County residents (Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot Counties).

Hosted by the Maryland Environmental Service, this event provides an environmentally responsible way for residents to safely dispose of hazardous household materials.

Acceptable Household Hazardous Waste Items Include:

• Gas, gas/oil mixtures, and automotive fuels
• Empty propane cylinders (#40 size and smaller)
• Acids, cleaners, and solvents
• Chemicals (pool, darkroom, etc.)
• Pesticides, insecticides, and herbicides
• Oil-based paint, paint thinner, stains, turpentine, wood preservatives, and wood strippers
• Fluorescent tubes and lamps (limit 15)
• Mercury thermometers

Acceptable Electronics:

• Computers and peripherals (keyboards, laptops, monitors, mice, printers, cables, modems, etc.)
• TVs, remotes, VCR, CD, and DVD players (limit 4 TVs)
• CB radios, fax machines, answering machines, and copiers

Latex Paint Guidance:

Usable latex paint (pourable, no mold or mildew) will be accepted for recycling. Residents should not bring unusable latex paint to the event. Instead, solidify the paint using an absorbent material such as kitty litter, dirt, or mulch and dispose of it in regular household trash.

Unacceptable Items:

• Household trash
• Explosives and ammunition
• Medical or radioactive waste
• Compressed gas cylinders other than those listed above
• Asbestos
• Smoke detectors
• Appliances
• Power tools and power tool batteries
• Tires
• Household batteries
• Road or marine flares
• Liquid containers larger than 5 gallons

Please note:

• HHW includes household wastes that are toxic, corrosive, ignitable, or reactive.
• Limit of 20 gallons or 250 pounds of acceptable waste per residence.
• No business, commercial, or industrial customers or materials will be accepted.

For questions about the program, contact the Maryland Environmental Service at (443) 685-4073.

Midshore STEM Camp continues to grow its impact across the region, providing underprivileged elementary students with hands-on STEM education while developing leadership skills in local high school students. Entering a new year of programming, the camp now serves four locations: Easton, Denton, Bay Hundred, and newly added Cambridge.

Midshore STEM Camp is unique in both its mission and structure. While students engage in science, technology, engineering, and math activities, they also learn accountability, responsibility, and confidence. These are skills that extend well beyond the classroom. At the same time, the program is entirely high-school-led, under the guidance of Bob DeGour, the camp’s founder and Blue & Gold Officer for the United State Naval Academy. This offers student leaders meaningful, real-world experience in teaching, organization, and community leadership.

“The STEM Camp is not just about academics, it’s about mindset, ” said Hunter Gilroy, 2026 Senior STEM Leader for the Midshore STEM Camp in Easton.

“Students leave with greater confidence and a stronger sense of responsibility, while high school leaders gain leadership opportunities that traditional education often doesn’t provide. After three years with this program, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful that combination can be.”

Since its founding, 10 years ago, Midshore STEM Camp has expanded from one site to four in just three years, reflecting both its success and the growing demand for this Midshore “leadership laboratory.”

Student leadership is a cornerstone of the program’s success. Veronica Pool, a junior at Saints Peter and Paul High School and Finance Chair Leader, plays a key role in securing community support.

“Reaching out to donors has helped me grow as a communicator and leader,” Pool said.

“Because of generous support, we’ve been able to purchase classroom materials and invite guests who help inspire meaningful conversations with students.”

As the program continues to expand, community support from individuals and local businesses is essential. Generous contributions directly fund curriculum development, classroom supplies, meals, and leadership training. With the YMCA of the Chesapeake serving as Midshore STEM

Camp’s fiscal partner, all donations are transparently managed and tax-deductible. Midshore STEM Camp invites donors, sponsors, and community members to help spread the word and invest in a program that strengthens both today’s students and tomorrow’s leaders. About Midshore STEM Camp Midshore STEM Camp is a student-led educational initiative serving underprivileged elementary students across the Midshore region. Through hands-on STEM learning and mentorship, the program fosters academic growth, confidence, and leadership development.

For more information or to support Midshore STEM Camp:

Kaylin Palmer
Journalism Head
kaylinp1411@gmail.com
410-829-3627

ShoreRivers is pleased to announce the return of its highly anticipated State of the Rivers events — a series of free presentations held each spring to inform the public about the current state of our Eastern Shore waterways and what we can all do to protect and restore them. Whether this will be your first or your 15^thState of the Rivers, we invite everyone to attend, learn, sip, and savor — and bring a friend, too! 

Each year, between April­ and October, ShoreRivers’ professional Riverkeepers conduct weekly tidal sampling of more than 60 sites from Cecilton to Cambridge, then test for multiple scientific water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, nutrient pollution, chlorophyll, and clarity. These indicators reveal the overall health of our waterways and our progress toward protecting and restoring our local rivers. ShoreRivers, statewide groups, and national agencies use this information to track trends, develop remediation strategies, advocate for stronger laws and enforcement, alert the public of potential health risks, and inform region-wide efforts toward clean water goals. 

The public is invited to learn more about the results of this testing at this year’s State of the Rivers presentations, hosted around the region by the Riverkeepers themselves. Light refreshments, including local oysters, will be provided. ShoreRivers is grateful for continued partnerships with our host venues, grant sponsorship from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, as well as the support of Donna Callejon & Deborah Whiteside, Happy Chicken Bakery & Catering, Ten Eyck Brewing Company, Choptank Oyster Company, and Total Wine. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

Please save these dates for this year’s State of the Rivers presentations:

Wednesday, April 22, at the Rock Hall Fire Department, from 5:30–7pm | State of the Chester River, hosted by Riverkeeper Annie Richards

Tuesday, April 28, at the Oxford Community Center, from 5:30–7pm | State of the Choptank River, hosted by Riverkeeper Matt Pluta

Thursday, May 7, at the Betterton Fire Hall, from 5:30–7pm | State of the Sassafras River & the Bayside Creeks, hosted by Riverkeeper Zack Kelleher

Tuesday, May 12, at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, from 5:30–7pm | State of the Miles River, Wye River, and Eastern Bay, hosted by Riverkeeper Ben Ford

In addition to analyzing water quality data and communicating this information to the public, Riverkeepers use their weekly sampling trips as an opportunity to monitor changes along shorelines, identify potential indications of illegal discharges, and scout submerged aquatic vegetation beds. These observations, coupled with the quantitative data collected throughout the year, paint a holistic and well-informed picture of the health of each river and its tributaries. Riverkeepers work collaboratively with the community and with ShoreRivers’ other program departments (including education, agriculture and restoration, and community engagement) to increase awareness of the issues, inspire behavior change, and implement practices for healthier river systems. Information on these efforts, plus data from the popular Swimmable ShoreRivers’ bacteria monitoring program, will also be shared during State of the Rivers presentations. 

“ShoreRivers’ tidal and bacteria monitoring programs produce the most comprehensive datasets available for our rivers,” said Matt Pluta, ShoreRivers’ Choptank Riverkeeper and Director of Riverkeeper Programs. “Having our Riverkeepers and volunteers on the water and at public access points lets us combine rigorous data collection with a personal connection to the rivers, giving us a deeper understanding of their health and how to protect them. We invite everyone to join us at our free State of the Rivers events as an opportunity for people who care about these waterways to come together, learn what’s happening in their rivers, and be part of the work to protect them.”

This event series is free — registration is requested but not required. For more, visit shorerivers.org/events.