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January 13, 2026

Centreville Spy

Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Centreville

Point of View From and Fuller

From & Fuller on voting

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It turns out our weekly commentators created their own newsletter recently based on popular demand.  Our online discussions in The Spy have been traveling well outside the Eastern Shore.  So, with encouragement from The Spy, the political whisperers now reach out in periodic podcasts and written commentary individually and together.  Of course, our weekly visits will continue.
On occasion, The Spy will share some of their comments. And this week, both wrote about voting and what was running through their minds. In the spirit of encouraging everyone to vote, here is what they had to say:
As election day approaches on Tuesday, November 5th, please take time to vote!

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Crossroads Community, Inc. and Corsica River Mental Health Services, Inc. Announce 5th Annual “True Colors” Mental Health Awareness Art Show

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Crossroads Community, Inc. and Corsica River Mental Health Services, Inc. are thrilled to unveil the 5th Annual “True Colors” Mental Health Awareness Art Show. The event will be hosted at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College from October 8 to October 12, 2024, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Week.

This year’s show invites artists from the Eastern Shore community and beyond to showcase their creative works. A special reception will be held on October 11, 2024, from 4 PM to 7 PM, featuring free admission, live music, and light refreshments. The event aims to celebrate the artistic talents of our clients and the wider community, highlighting the transformative power of creative expression.

Artists of all ages are encouraged to participate, with submissions accepted in various forms including paintings, drawings, photography, sculptures, mosaics, poems, and digital art. Digital works will be showcased on TV screens in the lobby. To ensure proper display, 2D artwork should include a hanging wire, while tables will be provided for 3D pieces. Prizes will be given to artists voted Best in Show. We are also seeking performers for live artistic presentations in the Todd Performing Arts Center theater.

Artists may choose to donate their work or exhibit it for the duration of the show. The deadline for submissions is October 1, 2024. Interested participants must complete the Submission Form available on our website.

For artwork drop-off arrangements, please contact Kyle Willey at [email protected].

Sponsorship Opportunities: To explore sponsorship opportunities, visit Sponsorship Information or contact Kyle Willey at [email protected].

For additional details about the art show, please visit Art Show Information.

View a workshop video here 

 For more information about Crossroads Community’s behavioral health recovery services, please visit www.ccinconline.com or call 410-758-3050. To learn more about the clinical services provided by Corsica River Mental Health Services, visit www.crmhsinc.com or call 410-758-2211.

 

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

County Commissioners Seeking Members for Several Boards and Commissions

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The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners are actively seeking individuals to fill vacancies on several Boards and Commissions.  The deadline for applications is October 18, 2024.

The following boards and commissions have upcoming vacancies:

  • Animal Control Commission
  • Board of Appeals – Zoning
  • Board of Building Appeals
  • Commission on Aging
  • Economic Development Commission
  • Ethics Commission
  • Kent Narrows Development Foundation
  • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
  • Planning Commission
  • Plumbing and HVAC Board

 

The Animal Control Commission advises the Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Animal Services on matters related to animal control and services, including Federal and State regulations, and County ordinances. The Commission also sets the fees and fines for animal licensing and control. Public hearings are held by the Commission on complaints to charges of Code violation by citizens, at the request of an Animal Control Commissioner, or an animal’s designation as vicious or dangerous by the Department of Animal Control.

The Board of Appeals-Zoning has the powers necessary to enable it to fulfill its functions and execute the functions of Md. Land Use Code Ann. § 4-305. The Board holds public hearings on requests for variances, conditional uses and appeals relating the Queen Anne’s County Code.

The Board of Building Appeals was established by both resolution and County Code on June 26, 1984. The Board was established to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official, relative to the application and interpretation of the Building Code.

The Commission on Aging was formed at the inception of the Department of Aging in 1981 as an advisory body as required by the Older Americans Act. It is patterned after the Maryland Commission on Aging. It is organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes.

The purpose of the Economic Development Commission is to develop a vibrant economy with the necessary human and business resources to provide the highest quality of life for all residents, while preserving the County’s distinctive cultural and environmental heritage.

The Ethics Commission devises, receives, and maintains all forms generated under the ethics code for Queen Anne’s County. The also provide published advisory opinions to persons subject to this title as to the applicability of this title to them and processes and makes determinations as to complaints filed by any person alleging a violation of the code. The commission also conducts a public information program regarding the purposes and application of the code.

The Kent Narrows Development Foundation, Inc. facilitates the revitalization of the Kent Narrows, a 995-acre waterfront area which is a strategically important asset to Queen Anne’s County.  The Foundation is a 501c3 organization led by a board of directors who work in cooperation with the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners and other governing bodies to establish objectives and guidelines for development and redevelopment of the Kent Narrows, addressing any other issues that may be deemed critical to the area. The Foundation works to focus local public and private leadership efforts in coordinating an economic development program. It also assists in securing the maximum utilization of funding available from county, state, federal and other sources.

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board advises the Department of Parks and Recreation and the County Commissioners on all questions of general policy relating to parks and public recreation in the County. The Board also advises the department as to matters of general policy and direction and, when appropriate, brings matter of public interest to the attention of the Department and County Administration. This Board also sets fees and charges for all those properties, programs and activities supervised or controlled by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

The Planning Commission has the powers necessary to enable it to fulfill its functions, promote planning and execute the functions of Md. Land Use Code Ann. § 2-101. The Commission makes and approves plans they recommend to the Board of County Commissioners for adoption.

The Plumbing and HVAC Board acts as an adviser to the County Commissioners regarding the administration of the County’s plumbing code and plumbing office. It hears and attempts to resolve complaints, disputes, or questions regarding plumbing matters with property owners or their agents, licensed plumbers or the plumbing inspector.

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

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

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff Addresses Recent Social Media Threats

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 The Queen Anne’s County Office of the  Sheriff is aware of recent social media posts circulating within the Queen Anne’s County  Public School District, threatening potential gun violence at schools.  

This post is the same viral school threat that has been shared at school districts nationally  in recent days. Upon investigation it was determined that the listed schools in the post  were from Marshall County, West Virginia, and not in Queen Anne’s County. Importantly,  there is no substantiated threat to students. Out of an abundance of caution, all  suspicious social media postings have been reported to the Maryland Center for School  Safety for cross-jurisdictional notification and awareness. 

Sheriff Gary Hofmann stated, “The Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff and I are fully  committed to keeping our community informed of any legitimate events that may impact  our schools. It’s equally important to address and dispel unfounded rumors that can  create unnecessary fear and anxiety.” 

Sheriff Hofmann urges parents, staff, students, and community members to verify  information through official channels before sharing it online. “The spread of false  information can create chaos and a sense of insecurity for our students, families, and  school staff. Let’s work together to ensure our schools remain safe and supportive  environments,” he added. 

In the event of a situation that may pose a threat to the safety of any school or student  across Maryland, the Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line is available 24/7. This anonymous  resource allows any member of the community to report concerns related to school or  student safety.  

Reports can be made by visiting the Maryland Safe Schools Tip Line online at  schoolsafety.maryland.gov, by downloading the Safe Schools MD App, or by calling the tip  line at 1-833-MD-B-SAFE (1-833-632-7233). 

It’s important to remember that this tip line is not a substitute for calling 911 in  emergencies; immediate threats should always be reported to local authorities. 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Support Centreville Rotary Club and Win a Crab Feast!

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Once again, its a chance to WIN a Crab Feast!
All proceeds benefit the Centreville Rotary Club and its partnership with local Food Banks.  We distributed almost $5,000 last year in support.
1 ticket is $10, or 3 for $25
Please make the check payable to “Centreville Rotary Club”  And mail to my office.
Let me know you want them by email, as the drawing is in two weeks!
When you WIN, we will let you know and arrange the date of the pick up of the prize.
Thank you for supporting Centreville Rotary!

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Having a Baby in the 21st Century with Shore Health’s Jessica Genrich and Stephanie Blades

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Like almost everything else in healthcare these days, the use of technology has dramatically changed the way in which one gives birth in 2024.  While the steadfast commitment to patient care has not altered since those good old days, the way in which hospitals like UM Shore Health System approach the birthing process is radically different.
From personalized labor and delivery care to advanced tools like remote fetal monitoring, Shore Health has built a unique team of doctors and nurses fully trained to handle even the most challenging deliveries.
Two members of that team, Shore Health’s Jess Genrich, director of Women and Children’s Services, and Stephanie Blades, the program’s clinical educator, have seen the transformation firsthand. With their combined 45 years of experience, they talked about those positive developments in childbirth for all in this special miracle of life in their interview with Spy last month.
This video is approximately eight minutes in length. For more information about UM Shore Regional Health’s women and children’s services please go here.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

County Commissioners Seeking Members for Social Services Advisory Board

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The Queen Anne’s County Commissioners are actively seeking individuals to fill two vacancies on the Social Services Advisory Board.  The deadline for applications is August 30, 2024.

The Social Services Board serves in an advisory capacity to the director and members act as liaisons to bring concerns from their communities and to take back information. Social Services Board members participate in the process to select the Director of Social Services for appointment and complete the Director’s annual performance evaluation with the Department of Human Resources.

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

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

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

QAC Animal Services to Participate in Maryland 3000 Adoption Challenge

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For the month of August, adoption fees will be waived for all participating animal shelters and rescues across Maryland as part of the Maryland 3000 adoption challenge. This successful event, which began over 10 years ago, took a short hiatus during COVID-19, but all participating shelters are excited for its return.

“The goal of this statewide challenge is to adopt out 3,000 animals to new and loving homes,” said Kelly Hamilton, chief of animal services. “The staff at Queen Anne’s County Animal Services is prepared to help you every step of the way through the adoption process and beyond to ensure a smooth transition for you and your new family pet.”

2024 has been a difficult year for animal shelters across the country, with most seeing a sharp increase in the number of animals entering shelters. Queen Anne’s County Animal Services is no exception, experiencing a 50% increase in their cat population from just one year ago. Campaigns such as the Maryland 3000 hope to encourage residents to adopt from their local shelters or rescue organizations.

“We hope everyone looking to adopt an animal this summer takes advantage of this wonderful opportunity to participate in the Maryland 3000,” said Hamilton.

Not ready to adopt? Queen Anne’s County Animal Services is always looking for volunteers and fosters. For more information, please contact the shelter at (410) 827-7178 or visit their website.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Accreditation Assessment Team Invites Public Comment

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Centreville, Maryland (August 5, 2024) Site-based assessor(s) from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), will arrive on August 12, 2024, to examine all aspects of the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff’s policy and procedures, management, operations, and support services.

Verification by the assessor(s) that the Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff meets the Commission’s comprehensive state-of-the-art standards is part of a voluntary process to gain accreditation — a highly prized recognition of public safety professional excellence. As part of the assessment, agency personnel and members of the community are invited to offer comments via a public access portal located at: http://cimrs2.calea.org/410

If for some reason an individual cannot access the portal but would like to provide comments to the assessment team, he/she may do so by writing to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, Inc. (CALEA®), 13575 Heathcote Boulevard, Suite 320 Gainesville, Virginia, 20155, or email [email protected].

A copy of the standards is available by contacting the Queen Anne’s County Office of the

Sheriff’s CALEA Accreditation Coordinator, Eric Wilson, at 410-758-0770, ext. 1923.

The Queen Anne’s County Office of the Sheriff must comply with 184 standards in order to gain accredited status. Sheriff Gary Hofmann added, “Achieving CALEA accreditation is a testament to our commitment to excellence in law enforcement. It demonstrates our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and service to our community. This accreditation not only enhances our operations but also strengthens public trust and confidence in our office.”

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Let’s Talk About It: Helping Our Vets and their Families with PTSD with Beth Anne Dorman

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The Spy continues our special series on Mid-Shore mental health this month with For All Seasons CEO Beth Anne Dorman discussing the unique challenge of helping Mid-Shore military veterans and their families with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

As young men and women return from war zones to assume civilian life again, a growing number of those individuals suffer daily from the consequences of PTSD. Mostly undiagnosed, this condition results far too often in depression, drug and alcohol addiction, domestic abuse, and severe and lasting mental health impacts on an entire family.

In our interview, Beth Anne talks about this major health crisis and what For All Seasons is doing to reach these families for treatment and ongoing support.

This video is approximately six minutes in length. For more information about For All Seasons please go here.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.