Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Centreville
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Compass will be offering their three-day training session for any individuals interested in becoming a patient care volunteer.
The training session is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 4, 11, and 18th. The training will be held at our Barnette Center’s Conference room located at 255 Comet Dr. Centreville, MD 21617. Volunteers provide company for patients, relieve the primary caregiver for a short period of time, assist with administration duties, or grief services. We are always looking for Veterans to assist with our We Honor Veterans program.
“Most often, patient volunteers give companionship to patients by reading, playing cards, or just watching television with them. They also give caregivers a chance to have a much- needed break to tend to other responsibilities.” said Robyn Affron, volunteer manager at Compass. “Occasionally our patients need some gardening or laundry done, or a quick errand run. Our volunteers provide the added support that our patients and families need during what can be an overwhelming time.”
Topics taught during the training will include an overview of hospice, the process of dying, spiritual care and its place in hospice care, the stages of grief, effective communications techniques, family dynamics, stress management and self-care for caregivers.
Compass relies on more than 200 volunteers of all ages to support its mission, and these individuals volunteer their time in a variety of ways. In addition to patient care volunteers, Compass is currently seeking volunteers for Compass Closet (formerly Estate Treasures), their upscale retail shop whose proceeds help cover uncompensated patient care. Whatever your motivation to volunteer, there is a place for you at Compass.
To register or find out more information about becoming a volunteer for Compass, contact Robyn Affron at 443-262-4112 or [email protected]. Please register no later than September 27.
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The organizing committee of Easton Airport Day is thrilled to announce The Oaks Waterfront Hotel as the title sponsor for this year’s event. After the unfortunate cancellation of the 2023 event due to weather, the highly anticipated 14th annual Easton Airport Day will now take place on October 12, 2024. This event promises to deliver an exciting day for the community to explore their local airfield and dive into the fascinating world of aviation.
Easton Airport Day will feature an impressive array of rare and unique aircraft, military jets, airport equipment, and special vehicles, all available for public viewing. Attendees can look forward to capturing memorable photos, stepping inside select aircraft, and engaging with the skilled pilots who fly them.
“We are honored to have The Oaks Waterfront Hotel as our title sponsor this year,” said Easton Airport Manager Micah Risher. “Their support allows us to present an amazing array of aircraft, host talented pilots, and showcase our fantastic community airport.”
Highlights of the day include formation flyovers by the Warbirds of Easton Airport Day, sponsored by Qlarant. These impressive aerial displays will decorate the skies over Easton. Additionally, the famous Rubber Chicken Drop Contest, sponsored by Bluepoint Hospitality, will entertain the crowd as pilots showcase their precision by aiming at a pickup truck bed from above.
“Being part of Easton Airport Day is a real joy for us,” The Oaks Waterfront Hotel owners Scott and Tracy Wagner said. “The Easton Airport is a valuable community asset, and the success of previous events, marked by incredible participation, thrilling flight displays, and enthusiastic attendees, has been memorable gatherings for all.”
Easton Airport Day is free to the public, with complimentary on-site parking. Attendants will assist visitors find parking, including those needing handicapped spaces near the terminal. As displays and activities are spread out, the public should be ready for extensive walking around the airport.
A full event schedule and site map will be available online in early October. To learn more about Easton Airport Day or explore participation opportunities, please visit the official website at www.eastonairportday.com. Stay updated on event news by following Easton Airport on Facebook and Instagram @EastonAirport.
About Easton Airport Day: Easton Airport Day operates under the auspices of the Mid-Shore Community Foundation. Contributions from generous donors and sponsors contribute to the event’s operational expenses, with remaining proceeds supporting the Aviation Career Education (ACE) programs. These programs afford students the chance to delve into aerospace career paths, offering vital resources and guidance in their vocational pursuits.
About The Oaks Waterfront Hotel: Located on a cove off the Chesapeake Bay, just an hour from Annapolis and minutes from St. Michaels, Easton, and Oxford, MD. The Oaks Waterfront Hotel offers spacious guest rooms and extraordinary waterfront event facilities. Locally owned and managed, The Oaks provides an exclusive retreat with the feeling of home. For more information, visit www.the-oaks.com or contact [email protected].
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
The Upper Shore Regional Council (USRC) is pleased to announce the awarding of over $17,000 in financial assistance to students in Cecil, Kent, and Queen Anne’s Counties through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Student Equipment Scholarship program between 2022 and 2024. This initiative is designed to provide the necessary equipment and resources for vocational and technical education, bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application.
“The CTE Student Equipment Scholarship has profoundly supported many students across our region,” says Susan O’Neill, executive director of USRC. “We are committed to continuing this initiative, aiming to help as many students as possible reach their educational and career goals, thereby enhancing the workforce in the Upper Shore Region for years to come.”
In 2024, the USRC awarded approximately $8,000 in scholarships to 55 students in Cecil, Kent, and Queen Anne’s Counties. Since the program’s inception in 2022, the USRC has granted $17,133 in scholarships to 93 students across these three counties. Scholarships were awarded to welding, culinary, automotive, and nursing students.
“Career and Technical Education is alive in Kent County Public Schools,” shares Tom Porter, coordinator for accountability and career and technical education for Kent County Schools. “In partnership with the Upper Shore Regional Council, we are committed to providing students with the skills and tools needed to be prepared to enter the 21st Century workforce.”
Christa Collison, the Academy of Health Professions instructor at Kent County High School, comments on the program’s impact: “The Academy of Health Professions is a Medical Academy that allows students to obtain Certified Nursing Assistant and their Geriatric Nursing Assistant certifications. To even be able to sit for these classes is an expensive endeavor, to the tune of about $350 per student. While the class can be costly and demanding, it is indispensable. On average, 3 out of every 4 students in the class land Nursing positions when they graduate. We greatly appreciate all the monetary assistance through the Upper Shore Regional Council’s CTE Equipment Scholarship Pilot Program; the funds make it possible for these students to get a running start into their careers.”
For several years, the USRC has championed educational and career advancement initiatives that equip the Upper Shore workforce with the tools necessary for success and contribute to future economic prosperity.
Students interested in applying for the CTE Student Equipment Scholarship can apply online here.
To learn more about the USRC and regional programs, visit the website.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Could there a more iconic image of the Bay than this span, this boat, and another beautiful sunset? “Bridge and Boat” by David Sites.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Modern Healthcare’s recent recognition of Compass as “Best Place to Work 2024” is a shining example of the high regard its employees have for their workplace.
For Human Resources Director Sandi Davis, the positive votes by more than 80 Compass employees exemplify what she experiences daily: a staff dedicated to understanding the profound value of providing care and comfort to individuals in their final stages of life.
Unlike traditional medical care, hospice focuses on enhancing quality of life rather than prolonging it. This work is rooted in compassion, emphasizing the patient’s dignity, and ensuring they are free from pain, surrounded by loved ones, and supported emotionally and spiritually.
“Two things pointed out are that we are a great support team. You know this is very stressful work, so we support each other, and having some work-life balance is important to our staff, especially our nurses and social workers who are out in the field,” Davis says.
One of Davis’ most significant concerns is the nationwide shortage of nurses, which has become even more difficult due to the pandemic. As Director of Human Resources, she is reaching out to the tri-county area to make herself available to anyone considering hospice work as a career path.
“Hospice is a different mindset from traditional healthcare. It’s difficult for people, especially young folks, to understand this difference. Once someone spends time with us talking about what we do and what we provide, they are—I want to say, hooked. I can tell you that a lot of folks who work here now are here because of an experience of loss they had.”
The Spy recently interviewed Sandi Davis to talk about the Modern Healthcare honor, how the hospice teams—from administrators to nurses—work to support each other, and the importance of outreach to attract new employees to their unique and profound “calling.”
For more about Compass, go here.
This video is approximately five minutes in length.
The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.
Delmarva Community Services Inc. (DCS) is a multi-service organization founded in 1974 that serves individuals with developmental disabilities, seniors, and individuals living in poverty, as well as childcare and transportation services. In 2023, the organization assisted more than 6,000 residents and employed more than 250 people. DCS team members believe that all people should be treated with respect, and as advocates for their consumers, the organization assists all individuals toward self-sufficiency and independence.
“Delmarva Community Services has a rich history in providing much-needed services to residents in the region. Our goal moving forward is to continue to grow these services to meet the challenging times within which we live. There is a greater demand today for assistance in all of the areas of services we provide, unfortunately without a related increase in funding. Continuing to look for creative ways to partner with other organizations and find new revenue sources will continue to be the organization’s top priorities as we move forward,” comments Andy Hollis, new President/CEO of Delmarva Community Services.
Since its beginnings, the organization has grown from three employees and a $75,000 budget to almost 300 employees and a $19 million budget today. The organization started with a van and a station wagon to transport disabled individuals to the services they needed in the county. As DCS grew its services for the developmentally disabled, it expanded its day services to 10 residential group homes in Maryland and six residential group homes in Delaware. Over time, the organization added Respite Care for families, Medical Assistance Transportation, local senior centers and senior meal services, and a Community Action Agency serving individuals living in poverty. The organization later acquired an elementary school in Hurlock with 20,000 square feet of space and consolidated its services including a vocational center.
Although DCS has two main sites in Cambridge and Hurlock, its programs extend well beyond Dorchester County’s borders. DCS also oversees Delmarva Community Transit (DCT) which operates 100 vehicles that provide transportation to the general public, as well as the disabled across the Delmarva Peninsula. DCT buses serve Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Talbot, and Wicomico counties connecting with Shore Transit and Queen Anne Rides. The organization recently rebranded its buses for better visibility for patrons and community members.
The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Intergenerational Center in Cambridge, which opened in April 2022, provides services for seniors, children, veterans, persons living in poverty, the medically frail, and individuals with disabilities. This 42,000-square-foot center is located on a 30-acre property adjacent to DCS headquarters at 108 Chesapeake Street in Cambridge and provides space for activities, education, recreation, dining, and for the community to gather. The space consolidates programming for seniors and job placement and vocational services for people with disabilities, as well as a children’s daycare. The building’s community space includes a central dining area with a fireplace and large windows overlooking the woods, as well as a playground and fitness course. The space was designed to foster formal and casual interactions between people. The dining room and catering kitchen, sunroom, and meeting rooms are all available for the general public to rent for a fee for meetings, gatherings, and events. Because of the large size of the property itself, it will also provide for future development opportunities.
“We are thrilled with our new leadership team and the exciting plans they have for the organization. We are an underutilized facility in Dorchester County and making our services known to more people will help to continue to improve the quality of life for residents in the region,” comments Don Satterfield, Chairman of the Board of Directors for DCS.
For further information about renting space in the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Intergenerational Center, contact Brenda Cornish at [email protected]. For more information about services or to donate, contact Hennie Hayden at 410-221-1900, extension 105, or visit https://www.dcsdct.org/. For transportation information, call dispatch at 410-221-1910 for Dorchester County, 410-822-4155 for Talbot County, 410-479-4974 for Caroline County, and 410-778-5187 for Kent County.
At DCS, the staff believes all people should be treated with respect. The services they provide should always embrace the highest integrity and quality. As advocates for their consumers, they assist all individuals towards self-sufficiency and independence.
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