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 (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.

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.

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 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

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.

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

Queen Anne’s County Commissioners invite you to participate in a Town Hall meeting regarding the US 50/301 Ramp Management Pilot Program on Kent Island. This event will be an opportunity for residents to listen, learn and discuss the program that was implemented this fall, the results of the study and the county’s proposal for the 2024 summer season.

Event Details:

Date & Time:
Thursday, April 10, 2024, at 6:30 PM
Venue:
Bayside Elementary School
301 Church Street, Stevensville
The Town Hall will begin at 6:30 PM with a self-guided presentation regarding the program including results of the study and next steps. A formal presentation will begin at 7:00 PM followed by an opportunity for residents to provide feedback.

There will be representatives from Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, Office of the Sheriff, Emergency Services, Public Works, Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration and the Maryland Transportation Authority.

To review the results from the pilot program and see the proposed plan for the 2024 Summer, please visit https://mdot-sha-us50-kent-iss-traffic-mgmt-study-qa50kitms-maryland.hub.arcgis.com/.

To gain further insights, Queen Anne’s County Commissioners worked with QACTV to address commonly asked questions. The playlist can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FoVMDUC4qSM&list=PL9KU_Pam3GcdeDudC09RCW_Qs1tWCRda5.

For those unable to attend the town hall meeting, public comments are encouraged via email at publiccomment@qac.org. Please include “Pilot Program Town Hall” in the subject line. We also welcome public comment during every County Commissioner meeting, held on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. See www.qac.org for more information.

As the weather warms up in Queen Anne’s County, the annual practice of winterizing boats with single-use shrinkwrap contributes to a significant amount of plastic waste ending up in landfills. With approximately 5,000 recreational boats in the county, and an estimated half using single-use shrinkwrap, this results in 30 tons of waste each year.

In response to this environmental concern, Queen Anne’s County Government has joined forces with Plastic Free QAC and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) to tackle the issue and minimize the ecological impact of single-use shrinkwrap.

Last year, the initiative began by targeting local marinas and businesses, successfully recycling over 1.62 tons of plastic and diverting it from landfills. This year, the focus shifts to residents, urging them to actively participate in reducing plastic waste.

The MTAM recycle bags, sponsored by the County Commissioners, are now available at West Marine in Chester, and Rommel’s Ace Hardware in Stevensville, Refill Goodness in Stevensville, and Town Hall in Centreville for individual boat owners.

County Commissioner, Phil Dumenil said, our county, blessed with natural beauty, is also entrusted with the responsibility of stewardship. By sponsoring the MTAM recycle bags, we want to empower our residents to take an active role in safeguarding our waterways and minimizing the footprint of recreational boating. Together, we can make a lasting impact on our environment and set a precedent for communities across Maryland.

The only shrinkwrap accepted for recycling must be cleaned of any zippers, windows, or ties and packaged in the provided MTAM recycle bags. Residents can drop off their cleaned shrinkwrap at no cost.

A dedicated dumpster for MTAM bagged shrinkwrap is available at the Grasonville Transfer Station, located at 401 Gravel Run Road. The MTAM dumpster will be accessible until late May, providing a convenient and eco-friendly disposal option for boat owners.

For more information, including locations to pick up the MTAM Recycle bags, where to bring them once they are ready to be recycled and the organizations involved, visit https://lnk.bio/RecycleBoatShrinkwrap

Oxford, MD – The Oxford Community Center (OCC) is pleased to announce a special event celebrating the enduring legacy of author Hulbert Footner’s 1944 classic “Rivers of the Eastern Shore.” This beloved narrative offers readers an immersive look at life along Maryland’s rivers in the early 1940s.

To commemorate the recent release of the book’s second edition, the Oxford Community Center will host a tribute on March 19th at 5:30 PM. Granddaughter of the author Karen Footner will provide a personal touch to the event, offering insight into Footner’s life and writing. Dennis Forney, publisher emeritus of the Cape Gazette in Lewes, Delaware, will also be on hand to read excerpts from the book and discuss its lasting impact.

Born in 1879 in Ontario, Canada, Footner built an acclaimed literary career as both a mystery novelist and travel writer before releasing “Rivers of the Eastern Shore” in 1944. The book was an instant regional bestseller, offering readers an insight into the rivers, towns, and people along the Chesapeake Bay’s Eastern Shore. First published by Farrar & Rinehart, the book’s recent second edition was released by Footner’s granddaughter Karen, keeping this beloved title alive for modern audiences.

“We are thrilled to host this event in honor of such an iconic regional book,” said Liza Ledford, Executive Director of the OCC. “‘Rivers of the Eastern Shore’ has transported generations of readers through its rich depiction of local history and culture. We look forward to celebrating the continued significance of Footner’s literary masterpiece.”

The event is free and open to the public. It is presented in partnership with the Oxford Library who celebrates local authors and Mystery Loves Company who will be selling the books onsite.

Doors will open at 5:30 pm. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Donations to support the Oxford Community Center’s ongoing programs and events will be gratefully accepted.