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Members of the General Perry Benson Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution recognized longtime Treasure Cove Thrift Shop volunteers Millie Talbott of St. Michaels, Maryland, and Joanne Cooper of Easton, Maryland at their recent 59th-anniversary luncheon at the Miles River Yacht Club. The chapter honored both women for their community service to the broader community through their volunteering with the St. Michaels Community Center’s Treasure Cove Thrift Shop. Talbott was recognized for 30 years of service and Cooper was recognized for 20 years of service. “These delightful women greet customers at the shop, help with their selections and purchases, and enjoy what they do,’” said St. Michaels Community Center Executive Director Patrick Rofe. “They are friendly and helpful and serve at the heart of our Treasure Cove Thrift Shop. And on a broader scale, everything they do helps raise vital funds to ensure we can help more of our neighbors in need.” Rofe says Cooper, Talbott, and SMCC additionally were awarded certificates of appreciation at the Maryland State Society of the DAR Conference held in Ellicott City, Maryland. “Millie and Joanne exhibit the spirit of volunteerism,” said General Perry Benson DAR Chapter Regent Jerry Seiler. “We’re grateful to have the opportunity to help recognize their work and that of the St. Michaels Community Center.” Treasure Cove Thrift Shop is conveniently located in the heart of St. Michaels on the corner of Railroad Ave. and Fremont St., with ample parking and an outdoor area for shopping. The shop includes gently used clothing, shoes, jewelry, household items, furniture, and more, with proceeds from every sale helping to feed neighbors in need through the food distribution and Community Café programs of the nonprofit St. Michaels Community Center.
Treasure Cove is run in part by volunteers and partners with other local non-profits and Talbot County’s Department of Social Services to provide emergency assistance to people in need, including those suffering from the effects of fire, flood, eviction, job loss, or other special circumstances. The St. Michaels Community Center recently returned operations to its newly renovated building across from Treasure Cove Thrift Shop at 103 Railroad Ave., with expanded youth and adult programs and services. Donations to SMCC and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop help the nonprofit ensure children and adults from the Newcomb Bridge to Tilghman Island have the resources they need. More is at www.stmichaelscc.org.  The St. Michaels Community Center is pleased to announce the recent addition of Randei Collins as a communications specialist. Collins brings her extensive marketing and communications expertise to SMCC before attending Loyola University Maryland this Fall in pursuit of a Master of Arts degree in Emerging Media. Collins is a graduate of St. Michaels High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Media Studies from Washington College. She has a robust background in marketing, creative writing, and organizational communication, including serving as a Her experience also includes roles such as a fiction literary screener for Washington College’s literary magazine, Cherry Tree at the Rose O’Neil Literary House, and an integrated analytics & communications intern at the college’s Center for Career Development. “Randei brings a unique blend of creativity and analytical skills to our team, and she deeply understands our local community because she grew up here,” said SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe. “By increasing our social media profiles, she is helping to support our outreach and fundraising efforts as well. We’re really glad to have her with us before she returns to school this fall.” In this role, Collins is leveraging her expertise in various digital communication tools, including Meta Business, Google Business, and Canva to enhance the visibility and outreach of SMCC’s programs and initiatives. Her leadership and active participation in community service projects, such as becoming a group leader for Rotary’s Youth Leadership Awards directed towards high schoolers and meal packing for Meals of Hope, further demonstrate her commitment to fostering a supportive community environment. While at Washington College, Collins served as a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, the Black Student Union, and Cleopatra Sisters. She also took the role of Panhellenic delegate as a sister of Alpha Chi Omega Sorority: Beta Pi Chapter and social media manager/vice president of its Rotaract Club. “I am happy to be able to use my creativity and marketing skills at a place where I can give back to the community for those in need,” said Collins. “Helping others has always been a part of my career goals and being able to use the skills that I have learned to dispense various, informative resources to hundreds of people in a matter of seconds leaves me fulfilled.” The St. Michaels Community Center is dedicated to enriching the lives of the residents of St. Michaels and surrounding areas through educational, recreational, and cultural programs while fostering community spirit and supporting the well-being of neighbors in need through various services and activities.
Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/now. Board Chair Lori Morris: This new facility can and will support not only the enhancement of our existing programs but their expansion as well as the development of a wide array of new programs and activities. Proclaiming that “this new facility can and will support not only the enhancement of our existing programs, but their expansion as well as the development of a wide array of new programs and activities,” St. Michaels Community Center Board Chair Lori Morris led a dramatic, emotional ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the official opening of SMCC’s newly renovated building.
The highlight of the May 20 event was the remarks of SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe, who provided a preview of the expanded programming that will be possible in the new building:
Rofe also emphasized that the new facility will support “far more interaction with the community,” noting that he “looks forward to many other organizations using our building for their programs and projects.” Current and former SMCC Board Members and staff joined local officials, SMCC program participants, and dozens of others in celebrating the conclusion of a three-year-long effort. Immediate Past Board Chair, and SMCC Campaign Committee Chair, Langley Shook recognized and thanked some of the many people and organizations whose contributions made the renovation possible, including the Town of St. Michaels, which was represented by Town Administrator Rob Straebel; key donors such as Tracy and Scott Wagner; Project Architect Mark McInturff, FAIA; the Reverend Steve Mosher and Christ Church, which generously provided working space to SMCC during the renovation; Landscape Designer Jan Kirsh; and the project’s General Contractor Harper & Sons, Inc., which was represented by Vice President Benson Harper. Introducing Shook, Morris noted that the project was “too large for any one person to have carried on their own,” but “at the same time, it is profoundly clear that the renovation would never have been completed without Langley Shook. “Generations of SMCC clients and program participants will have Langley Shook to thank for his efforts to strengthen this vital Center,” Morris said, adding “Every person trained in this Center, educated in this Center, entertained in this Center, and supported by the programs of the Center is in Langley’s debt.” After being introduced by Morris, as “a true champion of this project, and an indispensable trouble-shooter when, well, trouble needed to be shot,” Maryland State Senator Johnny Mautz focused his remarks on the importance of SMCC to the town of St. Michaels. He invited all those in attendance who had gone to St. Michaels Middle or High School to join him, as he presented a formal Senate Proclamation to the SMCC Board. “This is not just an official event, it’s a party,” Senator Mautz said, adding his personal thanks to all who “made this vision a reality.” Both Morris and Shook expressed special gratitude to U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin, who were instrumental in securing $500,000 in direct federal financial support. On the occasion of the ribbon cutting, Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, noted “For more than three decades, St. Michaels Community Center has supported the Bay Hundred community – providing food, job training, after-school programs, and other resources for thousands of local families in need. To help them continue and expand upon this critical work, we fought to deliver $500,000 in federal funding to modernize their World War II-era warehouse into a more welcoming, accessible space. In this newly transformed location, SMCC can better serve the Talbot County community and empower its residents to succeed.” Senator Cardin also issued a statement of support, saying that “The St. Michaels Community Center is at the heart of the effort to advance economic opportunity and support residents from St. Michaels to Tilghman Island. Revitalizing SMCC will expand its already far-reaching impact for Talbot County residents.” Senator Cardin added, “Funding this renovation is just another example of how Team Maryland remains a strong partner in securing federal investments for community-led projects throughout Talbot County and across the state.” At the conclusion of the ceremony, Langley and Karen Shook—a past chair of the SMCC Board who played a critical role in the Capital Campaign—cut a red ribbon formally opening the newly renovated building. About St. Michaels Community Center (SMCC) The St. Michaels Community Center's mission is to serve, empower and connect our community. SMCC enhances the quality of life and serves the needs of our community through programs that enrich the lives of children, teens, seniors, and families; and recreational, social, and educational activities for residents of all ages regardless of ethnicity, gender, or economic status. The St. Michaels Community Center hosted a ribbon cutting on Monday, May 20, 2024 to celebrate the completion of the renovations of our 103 Railroad Avenue location. The program began at 11 a.m. with the crowd gathering out front spilling into the street. Remarks were made before the ribbon-cutting by SMCC Chair Lori Morris, Executive Director Patrick Rofe, Vice-Chair Langley Shook, and Senator Johnny Mautz, followed by a tour of the building with refreshments inside. The St. Michaels Community Center is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m.. to 5 p.m., with the community welcome to take a look inside, and consider volunteering in our bright, new, airy spaces to help more of our neighbors in need. Our Community Café and Pantry have also returned to 103 Railroad Avenue and are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 to 3 p.m., and serve nearly 2,500 weekly meals. Our Café provides freshly-made meals prepared in our new commercial kitchen and pantry bags for our neighbors in need from the Royal Oak Bridge to Tilghman Island. Eat-in, take-out, and delivery are available, Don't forget to stop by our Treasure Cove Thrift Shop while you are in historic St. Michaels, Maryland. We're located on the corner of Railroad Avenue and Fremont Street, and are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Video: Tour with Project Architect Mark McInturff, FAIAVideos: May 20, 2024 Remarks & Ribbon CuttingClick on any video to hear remarks from SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe, Vice-Chair Langley Shook, Senator Johnny Mautz, and Chair Lori Morris. (You can enlarge any video by starting the video first, and then clicking on the arrows in the lower right hand corner of the video.)
Photos: Ribbon Cutting and Tours The St. Michaels Community Center’s Concerts in the Park Series is returning to the waterfront Muskrat Park on Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. beginning May 30 and continuing through Aug. 29. The sounds of summer begin with Junction 33 (JCT33) performing on May 30. The Eastern Shore-based band JCT 33 plays music from artists as diverse as Little Big Town, Bonnie Raitt and Lucinda Williams, to Hall and Oats and Michael Jackson, from the Allman Brothers to Roseanne Cash, from the Grateful Dead to the Beatles to Norah Jones, and more. All 13 performances are listed on the St. Michaels Community Center’s website, with performances including Ampersand, The Comfort Zone Band, Black Dog Alley, Home Brew, and more. Local favorite Three Penny Opera will perform on July 18 followed by a special performance by international jazz saxophonist Anthony ‘Turk’ Cannon, who is from St. Michaels and will be returning to perform on July 24. Muskrat Park features an expansive lawn overlooking St. Michaels Harbor and the Miles River, with limited picnic tables and a covered gazebo for performances. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or chairs, along with friends, family, neighbors, your leashed dog, or just yourself to enjoy the concerts. Picnics are encouraged, with alcohol prohibited. Popcorn, ice pops, bottled water, and other treats will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the neighbors in need served by the St. Michaels Community Center. Plenty of locally owned restaurants and parking are also nearby. The free concert series is made possible through the generous sponsorship of local businesses acknowledged at each concert. The St. Michaels Community Center’s newly renovated building at 103 Railroad Ave. is opening by late May, with expanded programs and services to include a new culinary arts and hospitality workforce training program. The renovations support SMCC’s mission to serve, empower, and connect the community, with year-round programs and activities. More about SMCC’s capital improvements are at www.stmichaelscc.org/future. Donations to SMCC and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels help the nonprofit ensure children and adults from the Newcomb Bridge to Tilghman Island have the resources they need. More is at www.stmichaelscc.org. 
As we approach the completion of the renovations on our building, there's an undeniable sense of excitement in the air. We eagerly anticipate the day when we can once again open our doors and welcome the community back into our newly revitalized space. The journey to this moment has been filled with challenges, but it's also been marked by incredible resilience and unwavering support from individuals like you. Our Community Café and Community Pantry stand as beacons of hope for many in our community who rely on us for nutritious meals and essential resources. The impact of these programs cannot be overstated. They provide not only sustenance but also a sense of dignity and belonging to those who need it most. With your help, we've been able to provide hundreds of meals to our neighbors in need, offering them a lifeline in times of uncertainty. I am particularly moved by the words of one of our dedicated volunteers, Gina Werner, who is also the owner of Gina's Café, who shared her heartfelt experience of serving in our Community Café kitchen. Gina's story is a testament to the transformative power of giving back and the profound impact that each one of us can make when we come together as a community. Gina writes,
What truly struck me during my time at SMCC was the sheer magnitude of the impact your programs have on our neighbors. I hadn't fully grasped the extent of the need in our community until I saw firsthand the faces of those who rely on SMCC's services. It was a humbling realization that many of our neighbors cannot even afford transportation, let alone access to nutritious meals. It's stories like Gina's that remind us of the incredible difference we can make when we join hands in service to others. Your support enables us to continue this vital work and ensures that we can meet the evolving needs of our community with compassion and dedication. As we look ahead to the future, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the possibilities that lie ahead. With the completion of our renovations, we will not only be returning to our beloved building but also launching new and expanded programming to better serve our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone and to be a part of shaping the future of SMCC. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to support our organization, we invite you to consider making a donation today.. Together, we can continue to build a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. On behalf of everyone at SMCC, thank you for your continued support, generosity, and commitment to our shared mission. With heartfelt gratitude, Patrick Rofe P.S. Your support makes a big difference in the lives of our neighbors in need. A gift of just $150 can provide 100 nutritious meals to our neighbors in need, making a tangible difference in their lives Please donate by using the enclosed envelope, or you can stop by our office, give us a call, or visit our website to donate online at www.stmichaelscc.org/donate. Thank you! The St. Michaels Community Center is a 501(C)(3) registered non-profit, with your donations deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Please consider helping our neighbors in need as part of your legacy by including the St. Michaels Community Center in your estate plans.   The April 17 Italian Eats program at the St. Michaels Community Center will include an interactive cooking demonstration of several Italian dishes, like this arugula salad with marinated apricots and bresaola, paired with fine Italian wines. Participants will enjoy the prepared dishes afterward while discussing all things Italian.  Bobbi Parlett, owner of Simpatico Italy's Finest in St. Michaels is one of two instructors leading a culinary arts tour for the Italian Eats Extravaganza cooking program and dinner. Chef Dawn McLaughlin will join Parlett in leading the course Explore the culinary arts with a tour of all things Italian as the St. Michaels Community Center teams up with Chesapeake College to present an Italian Eats Extravaganza cooking program and dinner on Wednesday, April 17 beginning at 6:00 p.m. The course takes place at the St. Michaels Community Center at 207 N. Talbot Street, with instructors Chef Dawn McLaughlin and Bobbi Parlett, owner of Simpatico Italy's Finest in St. Michaels, Maryland. This 3-hour program will include an interactive cooking demonstration on homemade pasta, sauces, and delectable Italian desserts, all paired with fine Italian wines. To cap off this culinary experience, the participants will be served the prepared dishes by the instructors while discussing all things Italian. The program size is very limited, with only a few spots left, with registration made by emailing [email protected], calling 410-745-6073, ext. 101, or going online with Chesapeake College at bit.ly/italianeatsapril17. The St. Michaels Community Center is entering the final stages of its capital campaign, supporting the comprehensive renovation of the nonprofit’s facility at 103 Railroad Ave. This transformation will enable expanded programs and services, including new children's and adult programs and an innovative culinary arts and hospitality workforce training program. More information about the capital improvements can be found at www.stmichaelscc.org/future. Donations to SMCC, as well as proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, play a pivotal role in supporting the nonprofit's initiatives to combat hunger through its weekly Community Café and Pantry and empower community members through innovative programming. Additional details can be found at www.stmichaelscc.org.  The St. Michaels Community Center is thrilled to announce the addition of Vicki Newman to its team as the youth programs coordinator. In her role, Newman plays a key role in developing and overseeing youth programs that enrich the lives of local children. A seasoned educator with a wealth of experience, Newman has a strong background in teaching and school administration. She served as an after-school principal in her hometown of Zanesville, Ohio, and later transitioned to the Eastern Shore, where she became a principal at the VQ Morningstar Youth Academy in Dorchester County. Newman expressed her passion for working with young people and her desire to make a positive impact on their lives. “I needed to find a new purpose in my retirement from full-time work because I can't just sit still,'” she shared. Newman's dedication to education and community engagement aligns seamlessly with the mission of St. Michaels Community Center. SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe expressed enthusiasm about Newman joining the team, stating, “Vicki brings a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for helping kids succeed. We are confident that her energy and commitment will contribute significantly to the success of our youth programs.” Newman—who has a Bachelor of Science degree in history and political science from Ohio University and a master's in educational administration from the same institution—is excited about her new role at SMCC. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, "The team are wonderful people and I admire Patrick’s leadership. I couldn't have asked for anything better."
One of Newman's key initiatives will be the development of a culinary program for middle school children. Drawing inspiration from her own family's background in culinary arts, Newman aims to provide valuable skills and experiences for local youth. St. Michaels Community Center, known for its inclusive and welcoming environment, is confident that Vicki Newman's expertise and passion will enhance its youth programs and contribute to the continued success of the organization. Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.  Christmas in St. Michaels, in its 37th year successfully raised $65,500 to donate to the needs of 19 beneficiaries in the Bay Hundred area. The event takes place annually on the second full weekend in December, with this year's dates set for December 13-15, 2024.
The event includes a House Tour, Breakfast with Santa, a Marketplace, a Saturday morning street parade, a Saturday night boat parade, an Old Fashioned Christmas dinner at Union United Church and to close the weekend gospel music at one of our local churches. This year’s beneficiaries include the St. Michaels Community Center, Bay Hundred Community Volunteers, Classic Motor Museum, Critchlow Adkins Children’s Center, St. Michaels Site, Jr. Achievement, Phillip Wharf Environmental, Pickering Creek, Royal Oak Methodist Church, St. Michaels in Bloom, St. Michaels YMCA, St. Michaels Fire Department, St. Michaels School After Prom Party, St. Michaels High School Athletics, St. Michaels Museum, St. Michaels Parent Teachers, SOS, TAYA, Talbot Community Connections, and the Tilghman Fire Department. Christmas in St. Michaels is grateful for the many volunteers who help pull this annual event together. Planning is underway for 2024 and like all organizations, they welcome volunteers! Please feel free to contact Linda Seemans at 410-829-0163 or Pat Martin at 302-750-7386. You can also find more information at christmasinstmichaels.org  From left: Preston Ford Sales Consultant Earl Wilson, St. Michaels Community Center Vice-Chair Langley Shook, St. Michaels resident Marsha Kacher, Preston Ford Sales Consultant Steven Sensibaugh, Jr., and Preston Ford Sales Consultant Tara Shuler stand in front of the Mazda Miata convertible Ms. Kacher donated in memory of her late husband, Russel. Preston Automotive is facilitating the sale and has written a generous check in support of SMCC’s building renovation project. In a heartwarming gesture of community support, Marsha Kacher, a resident of St. Michaels, Maryland, has ignited a wave of transformation by generously donating her late husband Russel's Mazda Miata convertible to the St. Michaels Community Center. The impactful donation, facilitated in collaboration with Preston Automotive Group, will help to complete the Community Center's ongoing building renovation project. Dr. Russel Kacher, a college professor and admired Commissioner of St. Michaels during the early 2000s, is fondly remembered for his dedication to the community. His legacy lives on through Marsha's thoughtful donation. “Russel would have loved this as SMCC does so much for our community,” she says. “Especially for the kids.” SMCC Vice-Chair Langley Shook, a personal friend of Dr. Kacher, expressed gratitude, stating, “Legacy gifts, including bequests and donations like Marsha’s, go a long way in furthering our mission. And we’re especially grateful for Preston Automotive Group’s partnership in facilitating this donation, which we hope can be the start of more opportunities like this in our future.” The renovations of SMCC's building at 103 Railroad Avenue, slated for completion and reopening in late spring, promise state-of-the-art spaces for children and adult programs, including a groundbreaking culinary and hospitality workforce training program. The revamped Community Center will boast classrooms, a spacious common area with cutting-edge audio-visual technology, and a modern commercial kitchen. This kitchen not only will train individuals for jobs in the hospitality industry but also serve as a hub for providing prepared meals and groceries to those in need. Preston Automotive Group President and CEO David Wilson, Jr., highlighted the significance of community values in their collaboration. “Community is a core value at the Preston Automotive Group, and we are grateful for this opportunity to partner with the St. Michaels Community Center and other organizations that do so much for our local community members in need.” Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center, along with the proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, situated at 200 Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, play a pivotal role in providing essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and the broader Maryland Bay Hundred area.
Learn more about SMCC's initiatives and building renovations at www.stmichaelscc.org and www.stmichaelscc.org/future.  The late Turk Cannon is seen dipping crabs as the sun breaks through a misty summer morning on the Miles River. Troubled Waters: Black Watermen is a program taking place on Saturday, February 17 from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Van Lennep Auditorium. The free program is co-hosted by St. Michaels Community Conversations on Race, the St. Michaels Community Center, and the American Association of American Women in celebration of Black History Month, with limited seating and light lunches provided. Photo by Tracey F. Johns. Troubled Waters: Black Watermen is a program taking place on Saturday, February 17 from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at the Van Lennep Auditorium of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. The free program is in celebration of Black History Month, with limited seating and light lunches provided. The community conversation features four panelists discussing life on the Chesapeake Bay for black watermen, including Edzel Turner, James "Captain Buck" Lynch, Rev. Dr. William Wallace, and Captain Lamont Wright. The program is co-hosted by St. Michaels Community Conversations on Race, the St. Michaels Community Center, and the American Association of American Women, with inquiries taken by Deborah Colborn at 410-310-3125 or Anthony Smith at 410-350-5853. Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center, along with the proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, situated at 200 Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, play a pivotal role in providing essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and the broader Maryland Bay Hundred area. Learn more about SMCC's initiatives and the program's panelists at www.stmichaelscc.org/adultprograms.  Community Center tackles hunger and empowers youth with help from United Fund of Talbot County grant2/7/2024  From left: MSCF Chief Program Officer Robbin Hill, SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe, and MSCF President W.W. “Buck” Duncan. The St. Michaels Community Center recently announced the receipt of a generous grant from the United Fund of Talbot County, a philanthropic organization that provides economic support to local nonprofits serving the health and human services needs of Talbot County residents. Mid-Shore Community Foundation manages the grantmaking process for the United Fund, with the collaboration aiming to amplify community partnerships and donations, expanding impactful programs targeting youth development and addressing food insecurity. “Supporting SMCC’s food support and youth programs is an investment in building strength and resilience in our communities,” stated Robbin Hill, Chief Program Officer of Mid-Shore Community Foundation. SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe expressed gratitude for the Mid-Shore Community Foundation grant, emphasizing its significance in advancing the organization's commitment to empowering futures and nourishing lives. “This partnership exemplifies how private resources, when connected with public needs, can significantly enhance the quality of life for people in the Mid-Shore region,” he said.  Mid-Shore Community Foundation President W.W. “Buck” Duncan, left, and St. Michaels Community Center Executive Director Patrick Rofe take a tour of the Community Center’s renovations at the entrance of the building, SMCC's flagship initiative, "Empowering Futures," is a transformative youth program designed to empower at-risk and underserved youth. The program provides access to entrepreneurial education and STEM learning opportunities, equipping young individuals with essential skills for future success. This initiative disrupts cycles of disadvantage by fostering self-reliance, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of community. “The introduction of STEM concepts prepares participants for careers in high-demand fields, fostering innovation and reducing vulnerability to negative influences,” said Rofe. “Our program will also help open pathways to higher education and employment.” Complementing this initiative is "Nourishing Lives," he says, as part of SMCC’s response to the pressing issue of food insecurity within the community. This comprehensive program provides access to nutritious food and empowers vulnerable populations with essential knowledge and skills for healthy living. Addressing hunger and offering classes on chronic disease and diabetes self-management, smoking cessation, and nutrition, "Nourishing Lives" can directly improve the well-being of community members. The program reduces health disparities by targeting education on self-management and empowers individuals to make informed choices about their health and nutrition. “This program also fosters a sense of community and has the potential to reduce long-term healthcare burdens,” says Rofe.  Mid-Shore Community Foundation President W.W. “Buck” Duncan, left, and St. Michaels Community Center Executive Director Patrick Rofe step inside the commercial kitchen in the under-renovation Community Center. SMCC’s "Nourishing Lives," program is a response to the pressing issue of food insecurity within the community. This comprehensive program provides access to nutritious food and empowers vulnerable populations with essential knowledge and skills for healthy living. Rofe highlighted that these programs represent an expansion of existing initiatives and that SMCC is broadening its food distribution program to reach more people throughout the Bay Hundred area, including offering healthy living classes. The youth program expansion, launching in the renovated building, will now include middle through high school students. “Together, these initiatives create a brighter, more equitable future for all members of our community,” said Rofe. Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center, along with the proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, situated at 200 Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, play a pivotal role in providing essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and the broader Maryland Bay Hundred area.
Learn more about SMCC's initiatives and current building renovations at www.stmichaelscc.org and www.stmichaelscc.org/future. Meet Stephanie Pritchard - Nurturing Community through Dedication and Operations Expertise1/19/2024  In the heart of St. Michaels, Maryland, Stephanie Pritchard, operations manager at the St. Michaels Community Center wears many hats, each contributing to the well-being of the community she calls home. Having joined SMCC in 2021, Stephanie has remained an integral part of the organization's mission to serve, empower, and connect, especially for our neighbors in need.
A Passion Rooted in Personal Experience Stephanie's journey at SMCC began as the office manager and bookkeeper, leveraging her management and financial expertise to support the organization's crucial operations. Her commitment is deep, beginning years back when her now adult children participated in the Community Center’s after-school and summer programs. This personal connection fueled her dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Operations Stewardship and Community Support As the operations maestro of SMCC, Stephanie handles diverse responsibilities, from strategic planning and implementation to overseeing day-to-day operations. She plays a pivotal role in managing and connecting people to resources and ensuring the smooth and efficient operations of the St. Michaels Community Center and Treasure Cove Thrift Shop. A History of Office Excellence Stephanie brings a wealth of experience from her extensive office management background. From her teenage years assisting her father with payroll at his body shop to her roles as an office manager at various organizations, including The Dixon House and Chesapeake Bay Outfitters, Stephanie's journey has been defined by a commitment to organizational excellence. Finding Reward in Making a Difference The most rewarding aspect of Stephanie's work at the St. Michaels Community Center lies in knowing that she contributes to making a difference in the lives of community members. Proud to be part of SMCC, Stephanie is devoted to its mission, finding fulfillment in being a pillar of support for the community. Currently planning the transition of operations into the renovated building in early 2024, Stephanie remains resilient. Despite the hurdles, she sees the incredible outcomes on the horizon, with the potential to provide even more to the community in the future. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of supporting SMCC's work, stating that the organization helps neighbors in ways one might not even realize. She believes in the significance of being there for each other, as circumstances can change, and anyone may need assistance. While Stephanie's role keeps her in the office, her commitment to SMCC's mission shines through. Though she may not have direct client interactions, the mission comes alive in the moments when the impact is tangible, making a difference in someone’s life. A proud resident of St. Michaels, Stephanie hails from Cambridge, Maryland, bringing a deep connection to the region and its community. While Stephanie attended college for a couple of years, her education has been primarily shaped by experience and self-teaching—a testament to her dedication to continuous learning. Currently juggling multiple jobs, Stephanie's dedication extends to volunteering, having served as a Destination Imagination manager for six years when her children were in school. Outside the office, Stephanie finds joy in spending time with her family, camping, tubing, and gardening. Her love for nature and the outdoors aligns with her interests in dancing and crafts. For those wishing to connect with Stephanie or learn more about SMCC, she can be reached at 410-745-6073, ext. 101, or via email at [email protected]. As SMCC continues to navigate transitions, Stephanie's unwavering commitment remains a beacon of stability, ensuring the community's needs are met with care and expertise. Learn more at www.stmichaelscc.org. by Tracey F. Johns, reprinted with permission from Tidewater Times, December 2023 The sun-dappled roads continued to narrow and become canopied with old-forest trees as I traveled to one of the farthest reaches of Bozman, Maryland. Glimmers of Grace Creek and Leadenham Creek hugged my horizons on either side, while the trees carried songbirds and a chilly autumn breeze. I arrived early for a Saturday afternoon garden party and fundraiser for the St. Michaels Community Center’s capital campaign, hosted by landscape designer and sculptor Jan Kirsh at her gardens and studio. For me, the experience felt more like visiting an arboretum as I meandered my way through Kirsh’s gardens and whimsical, brightly colored sculptures. My eyes were wide in a sustained state of awe while taking in every exquisite detail. Everything from the entrance’s chartreuse posts, bright red pepper sculpture, and cerulean blue grape screen to each oversized asparagus spear, artichoke, and tomato tucked in her gardens felt joyful. It was joyful. Stepping inside the beautifully lit studio with my 35mm camera hung over my shoulder, I felt like I had hit nirvana with more of Kirsh’s vegetable and nature-inspired sculptures on display. I unconsciously dropped my bag right in the middle of the entryway of the magical space, overtaken with all the beauty and with an urgency to free my hands to take some photos before the party guests arrived. Kirsh and I would laugh about the quirkiness of my enthusiasm when we later sat under her locust tree, with its falling leaves dancing in the sun as they made their way to serve as a natural mulch—or leaf litter—in her gardens. Seeing me enjoy her art warmed her heart, it turns out. Which was perfect because I came back wanting to know where she found her joy and what inspired her to support the Community Center’s renovations and capital campaign. Gardens aren’t the only thing Kirsh grows. She grows friendships and connections among the people she knows and around the projects she works on. That’s where her joy is found. “I love putting people together and introducing people to each other,” says Kirsh. “I tend to be the catalyst that says, ‘let's go to the play’ or ‘let’s work together.’ It’s all about building connections.” Seeing people connecting with her art—whether it be a client spanning more than 40 years looking over a matured garden that Kirsh designed and has maintained or seeing someone appreciate one of her sculptures—is what makes Kirsh’s heart sing. She says projects that make connections and build communities are especially interesting to her because of the impact and importance of the work. “I think that's why it was easy for me to slip into saying yes to hosting this party,” said Kirsh. “When Community Center Board Chair Langley Shook called me after Mark McInturff, who is a friend and fabulous architect, and they both asked, ‘Would you do this?’ I immediately said yes. I didn't even think about it.” McInturff is the lead architect behind the light-filled, energy-efficient design of the renovated building and is collaborating with Kirsh on the final touches for the gardens, which will include raised garden beds, seating, paved walkways, lighting, irrigation, and more. Kirsh is hosting this garden party to help raise money for the building renovations currently underway at the St. Michaels Community Center. She’s also personally and professionally invested in the project. She is donating her landscaping design services to create a welcoming community garden and courtyard at the Community Center’s renovated building at 103 Railroad Avenue in St. Michaels. The renovations have been underway for the past year and are expected to be completed in early 2024. “I think the front entry is really going to be special,” says Kirsh, noting that the front entry is very small and, from a design standpoint, is not an easy space. “It’s just this little, pie-shaped piece of land squeezed between the front porch and the sidewalk.” She says she’s looking forward to seeing the garden’s hardscapes installed which includes the use of Belgian block in the front garden and brick in the small, enclosed courtyard garden in the rear. The entry’s Corten steel planters with custom ipe wood benches will reflect the striking re-design of the building while anchoring the entry garden. Fabrication and installation will all be locally sourced, with irrigation and lighting a part of the project. Kirsh says the plantings will be informal with a loose, textural quality, including rosemary, lavender, creeping thyme, and native shrubs and grasses. She’ll include a scattering of perennials for a pop of color. The herbs will be included especially for the culinary center’s use, with one of Kirsh’s sculptures in consideration for the overall plan. “I think what will give me great joy is seeing someone sitting on the two benches, whether they’re waiting for a bus or for a program to start, or just eating an ice cream cone from Justine's around the corner. I want it to be a place where neighbors hang out in that little garden and take it all in.” The St. Michaels Community Center’s renovations will provide state-of-the-art spaces for more children and adult programs, including a new culinary and hospitality workforce training program. Several classrooms and a large common area for community gatherings, complete with audio-visual technology for presentations and screenings, are included in the design. The renovations will also house a modern, well-equipped commercial kitchen. “The Community Center serves the community at large with programs and activities for all ages,” says Executive Director Patrick Rofe. “Our modernized building and Jan’s beautifully designed gardens will be welcoming to all our neighbors, including those we help with our food distribution services.” Rofe says the center currently provides more than 2,500 meals each week to help the area’s working poor, homebound individuals, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and families facing emergencies. When the renovated building opens in early 2024, the Community Center expects to double the number of people served through exciting new programs for children, career and workforce training for youth and adults, expanded food distribution, community gatherings, and much more. “Our campaign has raised more than $4 million through the generosity of individual donors, private foundations, and government grants,” says Shook, who is also leading the fundraising committee behind the nonprofit's first capital campaign in its 33-year history. Kirsh is hoping the guests at the garden party will be inspired to support the campaign, and that they will use their own connections to encourage others to make tax-deductible donations to the campaign. “I think giving back is especially important on a personal level and in helping organizations like SMCC, especially when it comes to helping children,” Kirsh says. She realized the importance of giving back to kids and helping boost their self-esteem while teaching art classes at the Academy Art Museum many years ago. Kirsh often bumps into her now-grown students and their comments warm her heart. “They remind me that they knew me when they were eight or nine years old,” she says. “And they’ll remark that something I said or did made a difference in their lives.” Kirsh hopes to make a difference in the lives of children that goes beyond her circle of nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces, the children of friends, and other youth through her work with the gardens of the St. Michaels Community Center. “I hope these spaces will be where children particularly find their own joy and connections,” she says. “When we plan and build spaces like the St. Michaels Community Center to serve the community, we build vitality into a community that will carry over from this generation to the next.” You can learn more about Jan Kirsh at www.jankirshstudio.com. More about the St. Michaels Community Center’s renovations, including renderings and photos of ongoing construction is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.
 Image Courtesy McInturff Architects The public is invited to a waterfront dinner and a presentation about the St. Michaels Community Center’s renovations and programs at the Miles River Yacht Club in St. Michaels, Maryland on Thursday, January 11 beginning at 6:00 p.m. The MRYC’s Sail Committee sponsors the speaker series, with January 11 speakers including St. Michaels Community Center Board Chair Langley Shook, Executive Director Patrick Rofe, and renovation project architect Mark McInturff, FAIA. The panelists will provide updates as they discuss and take questions from the audience about SMCC’s current building renovations and what the future holds for community food distribution, a new culinary and hospitality workforce development program, education, technology, and more. The ticket price for the event is $30 per person, which includes dinner and a cash bar. Reservations are required by Monday, January 8 by calling the MRYC at 410-745-9511, extension 6. The renovations on SMCC’s building at 103 Railroad Avenue are expected to be completed in early 2024 and will provide state-of-the-art spaces for more children and adult programs, including a new culinary and hospitality workforce training program. The renovated Community Center will also provide several classrooms and a large common area for community gatherings, complete with audio-visual technology for presentations and screenings. The renovations also will house a modern, well-equipped commercial kitchen, where SMCC will train people for jobs in restaurants and hotels, and from which the Center can continue to serve and deliver prepared meals as well as tens of thousands of bags of groceries to those in need. “We’re grateful to the Miles River Yacht Club and its Sail Committee for opening this event to the public,” said Rofe. “It will be a great evening out with a delicious dinner, and an informative talk about how we will serve our neighbors from the Oak Creek Bridge in Royal Oak all the way down to Tilghman Island through expanded programs and our renovated building.” Rofe says the Community Center serves the community at large with programs and activities for all ages, and that its food distribution services help provide for the area’s low-income workers, homebound and other senior citizens, those facing disabilities, and families in emergencies. Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.   November 2023 Dear Neighbors, As we approach the end of another year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible moments of connection and support that have defined the work we do at the St. Michaels Community Center. Your partnership has been instrumental in helping us fulfill our mission to serve, empower, and connect our community. Today, I want to share a story that embodies the impact of your generosity, a story that speaks to the heart of why your continued support is vital. A few months ago, we received a heart-wrenching call from a local resident. The voice on the other end belonged to the daughter of elderly parents who had recently moved to St. Michaels. The challenges they faced were immense—her mother was grappling with dementia, making it impossible for her to be left alone. Meanwhile, her father, dealing with his own health issues, couldn't stand on his feet for extended periods, rendering him unable to prepare meals. In their time of need—like so many that we serve—the daughter turned to us. She asked if we could provide meals for her parents, ensuring they had access to healthy and nutritious food. Your support played a crucial role in making this possible. The meals we delivered weren't just sustenance; they were a lifeline, reducing the risk of accidents that could occur if they tried to cook or went without proper sustenance. Your generosity became a safeguard for their well-being.  But it was more than that. It was a moment of connection, a touch of compassion in their lives. Our delivery driver, funded by your support, brought not only sustenance but also a few minutes of social interaction. He offered a friendly smile, a listening ear, and a warm presence in their home. For this family, the meals delivered through your support represented not just nourishment but a lifeline of human connection in their isolated world. This story is a testament to the transformative power of your generosity. It is a living example of the real change you enable through your commitment to our mission. It is the essence of what we do at SMCC – we serve not just meals but hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. Your support ensures that our neighbors have the resources they need, especially during challenging times.  The St. Michaels Community Center’s Community Café and Community Pantry—made possible by your generosity—provide more than 2,500 meals every week. These meals aren't just numbers; they are tangible expressions of care for our community. As we move forward, we are excited about the completion of our building renovation, which will further extend SMCC's impact. This renovated space will not only serve as a hub for our programs but will also be available to our nonprofit partners, broadening our reach and strengthening our ability to serve. We are ready and eager to reunite with our community, offering programs for seniors, youth, after-school initiatives, and adults. Your ongoing support is instrumental in making these programs possible, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of those we serve. In closing, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your partnership. Your support serves as a beacon of kindness and a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when individuals like you join our mission. As we look toward the future, we do so with hope and confidence, knowing that, together, we are creating a brighter, more inclusive future for our community. Thank you for being a vital part of the St. Michaels Community Center family. With heartfelt appreciation, Patrick Rofe Executive Director P.S. Your support makes a big difference in the lives of our neighbors in need. Please donate by using the enclosed envelope, or you can stop by our office, give us a call, or visit our website to donate online at www.stmichaelscc.org/donate. Thank you! The St. Michaels Community Center is a 501(C)(3) registered non-profit, with your donations deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Please consider helping our neighbors in need as part of your legacy by including the St. Michaels Community Center in your estate plans. Watch: 2023 Year in Review Join author Joe Koper this Saturday, November 18 beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Union United Methodist Church in St. Michaels, Maryland for this important community conversation on the Isaiah Fountain case that took place in Talbot County in the early 20th century. Koper's award-winning book, The Isaiah Fountain Case, is the first detailed account of the mostly-forgotten story that outraged Talbot County, Maryland a century ago during the Jim Crow era. His book documents dubious investigative and judicial actions and raises questions about Isaiah Fountain's guilt and the Jim Crow legal system that convicted him. The program is sponsored by the St. Michaels Community Center and the American Association of University Women, with a light lunch provided by the St. Michaels Community Center. Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.   Sewall Cox of St. Michaels, Maryland has joined the St. Michaels Community Center as a part-time bookkeeper. In this new role, Cox is responsible for the day-to-day financial transactions of SMCC and the nonprofit’s Treasure Cove Thrift Shop. Her duties include documenting financial transaction details and monitoring the transactions, preparing and filing financial documents, processing accounts payable and accounts receivable, processing payroll and tracking payroll data, and assisting with tax payments and returns. Cox is a Talbot County native, who spent her childhood sailing on the Tred Avon River and later as crew on the Chesapeake Bay sailing log canoe Island Blossom. She moved away to Annapolis, and then Colorado to be in the mountains for 10 years before returning to the Eastern Shore in 2019. “I am very excited to work with good people doing amazing things for the community that I call home,” says Cox, who recalls visiting her late mother Julie Cox, when her office with the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum was at SMCC’s building on Railroad Avenue, now under renovation. Cox had served in the restaurant industry for nearly 25 years. After the COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to change gears and started working as a contractor in the financial department of a New England-based company, handling accounts receivable and collections. Now, she works with other local businesses in St. Michaels along with SMCC. “Sewall is a great addition to the St. Michaels Community Center’s team,” said SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe. “Her bookkeeping and local knowledge will help us further our mission of helping our neighbors in need while preparing our organization for growth in the number of people we will serve in our renovated building.” Rofe says the addition of Cox on the team also enables SMCC Operations Manager Stephanie Pritchard to focus more on operations, which will be especially important as SMCC relocates its Community Café and Pantry and children and adult programs to its renovated spaces in early 2024. SMCC’s current renovations will provide state-of-the-art spaces for more children and adult programs including a new culinary and hospitality workforce training program. The renovated Community Center will provide several classrooms and a large common area for community gatherings, complete with audio-visual technology for presentations and screenings. The renovations also will house a modern, well-equipped commercial kitchen, where SMCC will train people for jobs in restaurants and hotels, and from which the Center can continue to serve and deliver prepared meals as well as tens of thousands of bags of groceries to those in need. “Our work serves people in need from the Oak Creek Bridge down to Tilghman Island, with more than 2,200 meals provided each week,” said Rofe. “Sewall’s help in bookkeeping will help strengthen our organization and ability to meet the needs of our neighbors.” Rofe says the Community Center serves the community at large with programs and activities for all ages, and that its food distribution services help provide for the area’s low-income workers, homebound and other senior citizens, those facing disabilities, and families in emergencies.
Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.  Anthony Smith of Tilghman, Maryland has been named Community Engagement Coordinator at the St. Michaels Community Center. In this new role, Smith is responsible for fostering meaningful relationships between the Community Center and its stakeholders, including residents, donors, volunteers, and local businesses, and ensuring the services provided are relevant and effective in helping to improve the lives of those in the Bay Hundred and St. Michaels areas. “I’m very much looking forward to fortifying the connections between SMCC and the community in this role,” says Smith. “Serving as a liaison, I will be actively listening to the needs and concerns of community members to help align the center's programs and initiatives with our community needs.” The St. Michaels Community Center’s programs for children and adults have been recently put on pause due to the complete renovations now underway of its building at 103 Railroad Avenue, with a focus on outreach events until the renovations are completed in early 2024. Smith recently retired as St. Michaels Police Chief after more than 40 years serving in law enforcement and has served two terms on the St. Michaels Community Center’s Board of Directors. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Morgan State University and his Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Maryland School of Public Affairs in College Park. “Tony is a great asset to our community and has always been connected with the Community Center through our work with the S.M.Y.L.E program and more,” said SMCC Executive Director Patrick Rofe. “He will keep the pulse on our community's evolving needs to ensure our work has the most impact on people's lives.” SMCC’s current renovations will provide state-of-the-art spaces for more children and adult programs, including a new culinary and hospitality workforce training program. The renovated Community Center will include several classrooms and a large common area for community gatherings, complete with audio-visual technology for presentations and screenings. The renovations also include a modern, well-equipped commercial kitchen, where SMCC will train people for jobs in restaurants and hotels, and from which the Center can continue to serve and deliver prepared meals and tens of thousands of bags of groceries to those in need. “Our Community Café and Food Pantry are core to our mission, and we want to strengthen our relationships with the people we serve, in addition to those in our community at large,” said Rofe. “Tony is a known and respected leader and is already helping us achieve more outreach during his part-time work with us.” Rofe says initiatives that Smith is working on include partnering with S.M.Y.L.E. and the Perkins Family YMCA on a CPR and babysitting training program for middle schoolers. He says Smith has been instrumental in SMCC also joining forces with Union United Methodist Church to introduce a pumpkin painting contest and bring back the pie-making contest for the Fall into St. Michaels festival.
Donations to the St. Michaels Community Center’s annual fund and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop, located on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels, help provide essential human services, programs, and community events for people in St. Michaels and from throughout Maryland’s Bay Hundred area, with more at www.stmichaelscc.org. More about SMCC's building renovations and new programming is at www.stmichaelscc.org/future. |
