Research on Breathing Conducted at Shore Health System

Richard Wales, BS, RRT, Manager of cardiovascular and pulmonary services for Shore Health System, is actively involved in research that helps improve patient safety, locally and around the world.

Wales, who has been involved in three major research projects in the past two years, has presented his findings to researchers, scientists and physicians at international conferences since 2007. He is preparing for international congresses scheduled for the spring of 2009.

In December of 2007, Wales completed research on methods to recognize breathing disorders. Key to this study was an analysis of 20 independent projects. In his study, Wales evaluated devices used to determine cessation of breathing across all health environments, including emergency medical services. The results of the study identified a specific medical tool that can be utilized across all patient populations and environments to monitor ventilation, known as the fifth vital sign. Wales’ study indicated that a product manufactured by Oridion Capnography could be applied to all patients, including those that enter the healthcare system through the emergency room.

His study, which was presented at the American Association for Respiratory Care during its international congress in Orlando, Florida in 2007, has generated worldwide interest. As a result, Wales was invited to a recent think tank with physicians and scientists from Harvard Medical School, University of Alabama – Birmingham, Medical College of Georgia, Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah, Georgia, DEBORAH Heart and Lung, and from Jerusalem, Israel. This group is investigating the use of new discoveries to improve patient care.

During 2008, through the Regional Sleep Disorders Center located at The Memorial Hospital at Easton, Wales worked with polysomnographer Douglas Rousseau, MAT, RRT, RPSGT and Peter Whitesell, MD, a specialist in pulmonology and sleep medicine, to study pressure measurements created during breathing while patients slept. This study indicated that a simple calibration on a pressure transducer captured all breaths while using a “Smart” filter line, the SmartCapnoline Plus by Oridion. This filter line captures exhaled breathing gases and flows them to a device that measures carbon dioxide. The novel application of this technology provides additional information related to the patients’ breathing flow patterns. This is important when seeking information related to breathing in patients at risk for obstructive sleep apnea. The study will be submitted to an international medical conference in the spring of 2009.

Wales is currently conducting research that evaluates the interactions between the heart and lungs. This study, which began with computer generated human data, has evolved into a real device which is undergoing clinical trials in Israel and is pending FDA clearance in the US. The results of this research were presented to the American Society of Anesthesiology in October. This research, which involved more than 30 multinational scientists and physicians, may result in a new measure to warn medical professionals of breathing disorders well before these problems become critical and life-threatening.

The studies Wales conduct do not require any invasive techniques. Rather, the studies measure the air being exhaled from the body and use a simple finger sensor that attaches like a Band-Aid to measure the body’s oxygen levels.

Wales, a resident of Denton, is a graduate of Salibury University and a Registered Respiratory Therapist.

DNR Appoints Three Members to New Somers Cove Marina Commission

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary John R. Griffin appointed three individuals to the Somers Cove Marina Commission. The Commission, established by the Maryland General Assembly in April, will oversee the operations and future development of the marina located in the center of historic Crisfield in Somerset County.

“I am very confident that this new commission will continue providing outstanding service for boaters, and help ensure the marina’s economic vitality,” said Secretary Griffin.

The newly DNR appointed commissioners are:

• Susan Engle, a Somers Cove Marina slip holder and Crisfield resident;
• Mike Grant, Boating Services Facilities Manager for DNR, an avid boater and Past Commodore of the Kent Island Yacht Club; and
• Less Hardy, Director of Operations of Washingtonian Coach and a Somers Cove Marina slip holder.

“Somers Cove Marina is a true gem of Maryland. I’ve long supported doing everything we can to support and enhance the marina,” said Delegate Norm Conway, who chief sponsor of the legislation that created the Commission. “Establishment of this commission begins a new era in the marina’s management that will bring great benefits to Crisfield.”

The marina is a key to the area’s revitalization and requested the legislation to gain a formal voice in its operation and development. The Commission is comprised of 7 individuals; 2 appointed by the Mayor of Crisfield and the Somerset County Commissioners and 3 appointed by DNR. The Commission will meet quarterly and employ a full time Executive Director to oversee the operations of the Commission and marina.

The city and county appointed commissioners include Dr. Mike Atkins, Crisfield City Councilmember; Ladell Dorman, Somerset County public school teacher and Somers Cove Marina slip holder; Jay Tawes of Tawes Insurance Company; and Casey Todd of MeTompkin Seafood Company. The commission expects to hold its first meeting in January 2009.

Somers Cove Marina offers boaters 515 slips within walking distance to some of the Chesapeake Bay’s and Somerset County’s finest restaurants, antique and gift shops, and bed and breakfast accommodations. Daily tours and sightseeing are available for Smith Island, Tangier Island, Janes Island State Park and Crisfield Heritage Museum which includes tours of the Crisfield Seafood industry. For more information about the marina, visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/eastern/somerscove.html.

WATERFOWL FESTIVAL IN EASTON

▪ The 38th annual Waterfowl Festival
takes place in the colonial town of Easton, Maryland. The historic
buildings of Easton serve as venues for galleries and exhibits, while
events and demonstrations are held at the surrounding ponds and scenic
areas.

▪ The Waterfowl Festival is America’s premiere
wildlife art exposition featuring art work from more than 300 artists
recognized world-wide. Hundreds of paintings, sculpture, carvings,
photos, and fine crafts reflect the beauty of the natural world.

▪ Nation-wide dealers offering antique and contemporary decoys at their booths or during two exciting decoy auctions.

▪
The Festival offers fly fishing and retriever dog demonstrations – sure
to entertain the experienced outdoor enthusiast, children and everyone
in between. Also this year will be the DockDogs, an entertaining
competition between dogs to see who can make the longest jump into a
pool.

▪ There are numerous hands-on activities for the entire
family, especially for the little ones, such as nature arts and crafts
activities and up close wildlife education.

▪ Four
world-class calling contests take place at the Festival attracting top
callers from across the country and Canada. Contests: World
Championship Goose Calling Contest® with $10,000 first prize,
Mason-Dixon Regional Duck Calling Contest, World Champion Live Duck
Calling Contest® and World Champion Live Goose Calling Contest™ – all
with cash and gear prizes.

▪ Attendees can checkout the
latest gear, accessories and gadgets for hunting, fishing and marine
sports at the Sportsman’s Pavilion.

▪ Great Eastern shore food, daily music and After Hours concerts add to the festivities.

▪
The Waterfowl Festival is produced annually by Waterfowl Festival Inc.,
a not-for-profit organization dedicated to wildlife conservation, the
promotion of wildlife art and the celebration of life on Maryland’s
Eastern Shore.

▪ In its 37 years, the Festival has become a
leader in the conservation of waterfowl and wildlife habitat. A
milestone of $5 million has been donated to projects throughout the
Atlantic Flyway and in particular the Chesapeake Bay.

▪ The
Waterfowl Festival takes place November 14-16 in downtown Easton,
Maryland, off Route 50. Festival hours are: Friday and Saturday, 10
a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

▪ Admission is $12 for Friday or Saturday, $10 for Sunday or $24 for multi-day ticket – children under 12 free.

▪ For additional information or tickets online, visit http://www.waterfowlfestival.org or call 410/822-4567.

QACAC EVENTS

	Members’ Best Receptions are a great way to meet area artists, make new friends and enjoy the generosity of the downtown Centreville business community. Quarterly receptions are held in most locations and are from 5 to 6:30 pm on the following dates: Sep 25, 2008 through Dec 12, 2008

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September – June: Classes in Visual Arts and Fine Crafts, Music and Movement, Writing and Kids Classes.

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Crop Club Parties – Join paper crafter Cathy Downes on the last Sunday of each month here at the Centre for the Arts from 12-5 PM. Please call Cathy at 410-758-1251 if you plan to attend. Donations appreciated.

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October 11 – “Celebrate Fall” 7 – 8 pm Early Bird Salsa Lesson. Hostess Amanda Showell invites you to an evening of Ballroom and Latin Dancing.
8 – 11 pm Dance Party. $10 members / $12 nonmembers

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November 5 – “Inside & Out: Form and Image” exhibit featuring artists Carole Cascio (ceramics) and Skip Faulkner (photography). Through Nov. 29, T-F 9 am to 5 pm, Sat. 10 am to 2 pm, or by appointment. Fine porcelain and sturdy ceramics are suited for indoor and outdoor use and are contrasted beautifully by artist Carole Cascio.

Photographer Skip Faulkner captures the starkness and subtleness of architectural, natural and human landscapes. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Centre’s Building Fund.

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November 7 – Reception – “Inside & Out: Form and Image” 5:30 – 8 pm. Meet the artists, enjoy light refreshments and find an exhibit favorite to call your own. Centre for the Arts.

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November 8 – “Tango Nights” 7 – 8 pm Early Bird Tango Lesson. Hostess Amanda Showell invites you to an evening of Ballroom and Latin Dancing 8 – 11 pm Dance Party. $10 members / $12 nonmembers

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November 15 – “The Shore Men” 7pm Benefit concert features fantastic Bluegrass by Dave and Marc MacGlashan, Chuck Van Meter and Nate Grower.

Ticket price includes an After Party featuring Bay favorites – oysters, crab cakes, Smith Island Cake and more. Proceeds benefit the Building Fund. $25 advance / $30 door. Advance ticket sales end on November 14.

Only 132 seats, reserve early.

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December 6 – “Heck with the Malls!” 9 am to 2 pm. Holiday shopping at its best. Artists and artisans in two locations: the Centre for the Arts and St. Paul’s Church. Find unique gifts for friends and family and bring home something for yourself. In it’s 12th year, this annual event is a must do! Hand-crafted soaps and lotions, jewelry, mosaics, photography, fashion and home accessories, one-of-a-kind purses, ceramics, wood and metal sculpture, holiday ornaments, watercolors, wildlife carvings, Native American clothing, and book signings by area writers Niambi Davis and Marjorie Lorenz. When you finish shopping with area artists, visit downtown Centreville where merchants will have extra discounts and refreshments for holiday shoppers. Free.

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Dec 12 – Reception, “Members Best” – NEW! Now on Fridays, you’re invited to come to downtown Centreville and see artwork, enjoy refreshments and visit local businesses who will stay open a little later than usual and will have special offers for art lovers. Start at the Arts Council’s Centre for the Arts (4 to 6 pm) for refreshments and to pick up a map of participating exhibitors and merchants. Then head over to Cottage Cuts (4 to 5 pm) to Terrar After the Storm on the Choptank.jpgsee the work of Marion LeMoal. From 5 to 6:30 receptions are at the following locations:
An Optical Galleria – David Terrar
Centreville Bank – Carolyn Councell
Delmarva Financial Group – Sally Clark
PNC Bank – Kurt Plinke
Prudential Premier Properties – Susan Schauer

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December 13 – “Holiday Dance & Showcase” 7 pm Celebrate the holiday season with an evening of Ballroom and Latin dances with hostess Amanda Showell. Performances throughout the evening. Light refreshments. $15 advance / $18 door.

Comments Encouraged on Draft Oyster Environmental Impact Statement

Norfolk, VA – The Norfolk District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Virginia Marine Resources Commission today released a Draft Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement that evaluates oyster restoration alternatives for the Chesapeake Bay.

The study analyzes the direct and indirect ecological, economic, and cultural impacts of introducing a non-native species, the Suminoe oyster, continued efforts to restore the native Eastern oyster, and eight oyster restoration and management strategies.

“The document is the most comprehensive, multi-disciplinary oyster recovery study published to date,” said Norfolk District Commander Colonel Dionysios Anninos, and “involved the work of more than 90 scientists and several reviews by multiple independent panels.”

“The public release of the draft PEIS is a significant milestone for the five-year study,” Anninos added. “The PEIS will lay the foundation for all future oyster recovery actions in the Bay and we look forward to the public’s input on this important topic. The document does not name a preferred alternative; however, we’ve narrowed the alternatives to three basic combinations. Through extensive researched, we determined that no single alternative meets the established purpose and need of restoring the population.”

A preferred strategy will be identified in the final version of the PEIS, which the team expects to publish in late spring 2009, following the public comment period.

The Draft PEIS, prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Potomac River Fisheries Commission and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission, includes an evaluation of the potential outcomes of a range of alternatives for restoring the native Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), as well as the outcomes of an introduction of a nonnative species, the Suminoe oyster (Crassostrea ariakensis).

“This five-year effort built a sound scientific foundation on which to base a decision on whether to introduce a nonnative oyster species to the Chesapeake Bay,” said Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources L. Preston Bryant, Jr. “Many, many scientists worked very hard on this and I thank them for their labors. Their work has been peer reviewed and those peer reviews have been peer reviewed. Exceptional diligence has been exercised. Now is the time for the public to make their voices heard. Public hearings will be held over the next two months and we eagerly await the public’s input. We are at the crossroads of an important decision. Rest assured, it will not be made lightly.”

Maryland officials also recognized the findings of the study and the importance of public feedback during the public comment period, Oct. 17 through Dec. 15.

“Thanks to the work of 90 scientists, we now have a significantly greater understanding of the ecological, economic, and cultural impacts of several different oyster restoration strategies,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary John R. Griffin. “Their work, along with public feedback, will help us decide the best way to re-establish a healthy, sustainable oyster population in the Chesapeake Bay — a goal that we must ultimately accomplish for the future of the bay, our children and grandchildren. We hope that Marylanders will share their ideas and concerns as we work to identify, and begin to implement, the best strategies to achieve our restoration goals.”

In order to facilitate public comment, the lead agencies have scheduled six public meetings, three in Virginia and three in Maryland. The schedule for those meeting is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the following locations:

Maryland:

– Wednesday, Nov. 12, Calvert Marine Museum, 14200 HG Truman Road, Solomons, Md. 20688

– Thurs. November 13: Miller Senate Building, 11 Bladen Street, Annapolis, Md. 21401

– Friday, Nov. 14, Minnette Dick Memorial Hall (St. Mary’s Catholic Church), 2000 Hambrooks Blvd., Cambridge, Md. 21613

Virginia:

– Wednesday, Nov. 5, Potomac River Fisheries Commission, 222 Taylor Street, Colonial Beach, Va. 22443

Friday, Nov. 7, VMRC main office 2600 Washington Avenue, 3rd Floor, Newport News, Va. 23607

Monday, Nov. 10, Nandua High School, 26350 Lankford Highway, Onley, Va. 23418

Comments may be submitted until Dec. 15, 2008 via verbal testimony at the public meetings, mail to Department of the Army, Norfolk District, Corps of Engineers, Attn: Mr. Mark Mansfield, Planning and Policy Branch, Fort Norfolk, 803 Front Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510-1096.
or email to Mark.T.Mansfield@usace.army.mil. Comments should reference the Draft PEIS.

Form more information visit http://www.nao.usace.army.mil/OysterEIS/homepage.asp or the following libraries:

• Anne Arundel Community College – Andrew G. Truxal Library – Arnold, Md.
• Anne Arundel Co. Public Library – Annapolis, Md.
• Calvert Co. Public Library – Prince Frederick, Md.
• Central Rappahannock Regional Library – Fredericksburg, Va.
• Chesapeake College Library – Wye Mills, Md.
• Corbin Memorial Library – Crisfield, Md.
• Dorchester Co. Public Library – Cambridge and Hurlock, Md.
• Eastern Shore Public Library – Accomac, Va
• Enoch Pratt Free Library – Baltimore, Md.
• Fairfax Co. Public Library – Fairfax, Va.
• Federal Maritime Commission Library – Washington, D.C.
• Henrico Co. Public Library – Richmond, Va.
• Kent Co. Public Library – Chestertown, Md.
• Lewis Egerton Smoot Memorial Library – King George, Va.
• Loudoun Co. Public Library – Leesburg, Va.
• MD State Law Library – Annapolis, Md.
• Norfolk Public Library – Norfolk, Va.
• Northumberland Public Library – Heathsville, Va.
• Petersburg Public Library – Petersburg, Va.
• Queen Anne’s Co. Library – Stevensville and Centerville, Md.
• Richmond Public Library – Richmond, Va.
• Somerset Co. Library – Princess Anne and Ewell, Md.
• St. Mary’s Co. Memorial Library – Leonardtown, Md.
• State Dept. of Legislative Reference Library – Annapolis, Md.
• Sudlersville Memorial Library – Sudlersville, Md.
• Talbot Co. Free Library – St. Michaels, Easton and Tilghman (Elementary School), Md.
• Calvert Co. Library – Twin Beaches Branch – Chesapeake Beach, Md.
• Virginia Beach Public Library – Virginia Beach, Va.
• Wicomico Co. Free Library – Salisbury, Md.

Chestertown Show raises funds for Wildlife Curriculum in Schools

The 29th annual Chestertown Wildlife Exhibition and Sale – a showcase of decoys, paintings, photographs, and arts and crafts with a naturalist’s theme, runs through October 19 in the downtown historic district of Chestertown, Maryland.

Proceeds from the 2008 show go to support the development of a wildlife curriculum for elementary and middle schools throughout the Delmarva region.  Earlier in 2008 the organization went through an in-depth strategic planning process that resulted in a revived energy and focus on its mission of wildlife preservation, conservation, and education.

A pre-show fundraising event on Thursday evening, October 16th, 7pm to 9pm at Prince Theatre served as a kickoff to this year’s show.  The premier of “Ribbon of Sand,” the 2007 NonBroadcast Finalist from the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival took place.  The proceeds from the $60 per person event will benefit the Delmarva Wildlife Curriculum Project.

The show’s traditional Preview Party took place  Friday evening, October 17th, from 5pm to 7 p.m.  Donations of $25 per person including  light hors d’oeuvres and open bar at selected venues along with early admission to all venues, provide an opportunity to preview exhibitors prior to the general public.  Patrons may also enter all venues on Saturday.

General admission to the Exhibition itself is $5 per person, and is good  all day Saturday, October 18th.  Children under 12 are admitted free.  Attendees to the Exhibition may  enter for a chance to win one of the many working and decorative decoys that will be raffled at the end of the show.  Chances are available for $1 each and one does not need to be present to win.

Starting in 1965, the Exhibition has become a major event on the Maryland’s Eastern Shore bringing together wildlife enthusiasts from throughout the region.  The event has become known for its high caliber of art and its attraction of extremely talented artists.  Event organizers have endeavored to enhance this year’s Exhibition & Sale with a number of new and exciting additions aimed at creating a different kind of show that to re-attract those who have seen the show in previous years.

The show, entering its 16th year in its current downtown format, has commitments from more than 65 exhibitors.  Because of growing popularity, the show uses a number of venues throughout downtown Chestertown such as the Parish Hall of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Prince Theatre, Chestertown Fire Hall, Town Hall, and Visitors Center.  Other showcases throughout downtown include banks, shops, art galleries, and business offices.

Other interactive workshops were added to this year’s show.  Techniques of Decoy Carving for the Beginner is  offered by Warren Saunders.  Warren Saunders is a loyal participant in Chestertown Wildlife, a well-known and accomplished carver, a teacher, and an Eastern Shore native with stories to tell.  Learn more about him at http://www.saundersdecoys.com.  His one and a half hour class begins at 2pm, Saturday at the Chestertown Firehouse. This is mainly a demonstration but participants will have the opportunity to try their hand at carving.  Cost is $10 and in order to guarantee a spot, reservations can be made in advance.

Another workshop features Lu Fisher’s DVD, in which this accomplished carver and loyal participant in the Wildlife Exhibition demonstrates her techniques.  The filming of Lu at work was done by the Woodworkers Guild of Annapolis. The DVD will be shown at various times at the Chestertown Town Hall on Saturday.  Lu Fisher will be available to take questions after the viewings.  Admission is free.

A more hands-on workshop provides the opportunity to create a natural wildlife feeder.  Volunteer members of the Chestertown Wildlife Decorating Committee will host a workshop that will instruct participants in creating an attractive grapevine wreath full of nature’s bounty for wildlife to enjoy.  The workshop will be held at Town Hall, outside weather permitting.   Time is 11am on Saturday, and the cost is $15.  Make your reservation to guarantee a spot at http://www.chestertownwildlife.org.

Other features of the show include food vendors and live music in the town park area, decoy carving demonstrations, a decoy identification table, a live raptor exhibit, and the always enjoyable autumn soup sampling booth offering a delicious area of tastes from area restaurants.

The primary goal of the Chestertown Wildlife Exhibition and Sale is to raise funds for habitat preservation, wildlife conservation and education.  In 2001 the organization completed a shallow water impoundment in Radcliffe Creek that provides refuge and nesting grounds for ducks and other wetlands species.  During 2005 a three year commitment was undertaken to support the Maryland Wood Duck Initiative.  Future plans include development of a water habitat and nature trail near MD Route 213 in Chestertown.

“The show is a success because we have great exhibitors, volunteers, and board members; without their valuable participation this show would not be one of the premier events on the Eastern Shore,” said Mary Burton, Exhibition board president.

“It’s a great show, and a great weekend.  There’s a lot for people to do,” she said.  To purchase tickets and for detailed information about the Chestertown Wildlife Exhibition and Sale as well as a complete list of participating artists visit http://www.chestertownwildlife.org.

Governor O’Malley Declares Sept. 22-26 as Homegrown School Lunch Week

Takoma Park Middle School students were joined by local, state, and federal officials and farmers on Sept. 23,  to launch Maryland’s first-ever Homegrown School Lunch Week with special educational activities and locally-grown fruits and vegetables for lunch. To draw attention to the connection between healthy food and the local farms that grow it, Governor Martin O’Malley officially designated September 22-26, 2008 as Maryland Homegrown School Lunch Week.

“Many students today do not know where their food comes from and many residents aren’t aware how important a part of Maryland’s environment, economy and quality of life that farms are,” said Governor O’Malley. “The Jane Lawton Farm to School program that we established this spring provides a unique and important opportunity to highlight the connections among farms, the nutritional benefits of fresh foods, and the food served in schools. Our goals are to see more local, fresh food in school lunches, to improve childhood health and the opportunity for them to learn as well as to strengthen our family farms.”

Today, students at the Silver Spring school enjoyed local vegetables on their pizza and in vegetable soup, a melon cup, cucumber and tomato salad, green beans and assorted fresh fruits from Maryland farms. Montgomery County’s own Lewis Orchard provided apples for each of over 800 students to take home, compliments of the county’s Agricultural Services Division. The cucumbers are from farms in Clinton and Severn and the green beans are from a farm in Chestertown.

Prior to lunch students from the Food and Consumer Services Program and the school orchestra who played during the kick-off event, explored educational exhibits including the Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation’s Showcase vehicle showing the many ways agriculture affects our lives, the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s conservation pizza, the University of Maryland Cooperative Extension nutrition and sanitation exhibits, and Montgomery County Agricultural Services Program farmland display.
“The interest this program has garnered in just a few short months is very exciting and promising for the future,” said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Hance. “It is a remarkably complicated endeavor that was started after crops were planted, school contracts were signed with distributors, and in many cases menus were set. Our goal was to get four counties involved this year and we are astounded that almost every county in Maryland is doing some activity at some level. Food for school lunches are coming from at least 30 different Maryland farms.”

“Teaching our children about the connection between farming and food today will ensure that tomorrow they make decisions that are the most beneficial for the farming community, our environment, the economy and the general health of all Marylanders,” said State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Nancy Grasmick. “It is great to see so many schools and school systems participating and hopefully local foods will become the norm in school lunches.”

“Maryland-grown school lunches are nutritious, delicious, environmentally superior, and good for our farmers. I can't even tell you how excited my kids are about this. I'm very proud that we're kicking this great program off in District 20, where people are wildly enthusiastic about it,” said Senator Jamie Raskin.

“The Farm to School program is the right thing to do for our students,” said Dr. Jerry Weast, Montomery County School Superintendent. “I congratulate our county food and nutrition services staff and school leadership, including Takoma Park Middle School Principal Renay C. Johnson who is hosting the kick off event, for their commitment to seeing the effort through and doing everything they can to see it grow in the future.”

So, how can you get children to eat more fruits and vegetables at school? Preliminary findings from a recent study by University of Maryland researchers show that kids will eat fruits and vegetables at school with a little help and that there are actually a number of ways to accomplish that.

The Homegrown School Lunch Week, an element of the Jane Lawton Farm to School Program, was created during the 2008 Session of the Maryland General Assembly when SB 158 Farm-to-School Program - Activities and Promotional Events, sponsored by state Senator Jamie Raskin and state Delegate Sheila Hixson of Montgomery County, was signed into law by Governor Martin O’Malley in May.

More information about the Jane Lawton Farm to School program including educational materials, menus, places to find local products and much more for parents, teachers, and food service staff, is available at http://www.marylandfarmtoschool.org. For more information about the University of Maryland study, contact Dr. Bonnie Braun, 301-405-3581 or 301-335-4335; bbraun@umd.edu
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GOVERNOR MARTIN O’MALLEY STATEMENT ON FEDERAL BLUE CRAB DISASTER DECLARATION

Governor Martin O’Malley commended the support and leadership of Maryland’s Congressional Delegation today and thanked Department of Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez for the federal fishery disaster declaration for the Chesapeake Bay blue crab.

“We are grateful to Senators Mikulski and Cardin, and our congressional delegation for their leadership in working with the Department of Commerce to secure this critical designation for Maryland’s watermen.  Maryland’s blue crab and the traditional fishing industry that it supports face difficult times and the federal funding accompanying the disaster designation will help to preserve the infrastructure of Maryland’s hallmark blue crab fishery, and ensure an active fishery for the future.

This declaration not only helps restore the blue crab population, but it also ensures that the livelihood of our State’s watermen continues to be sustained. While we work with the industry on the State level to rebuild stocks and restructure the fishery, this federal action will help sustain the livelihoods of Maryland’s watermen, whose work is so vital to Maryland’s economy.”

Earlier this year, the O’Malley/Brown Administration coordinated historic action with Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine to rebuild the Chesapeake Bay’s beleaguered blue crab population by reducing the harvest of ecologically valuable female blue crabs by 34 percent in 2008. In May 2008, Governors O’Malley and Kaine requested a disaster assistance evaluation from NOAA‘s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for Chesapeake Bay watermen and women who have suffered economic hardships due to the extremely low and unstable blue crab abundance.  Finding that due to adverse environmental conditions including habitat loss, water quality decline, an overabundance of native and non-native predators, and decimation of key blue crab prey, economic losses to the region’s blue crab fishing industry have accumulated over the last decade, the U.S. Department of Commerce today declared a state of disaster for the fishery.

HARRISON STREET BOOK OFFERS EVENTS

September Book Talk

Londonderry Retirement Community ~ Wednesday, September 17^th at 3:00 p.m.  We will be discussing the book – Big Box Swindle by Stacy Mitchell.

Talbot Women’s Club Book Talk

Harrison Street Books has been invited to give a book talk for the Talbot Women’s Club on Tuesday, September 23^rd at 12:30 p.m.  We will be discussing Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson.

Super Tuesday

Super Tuesday is the always the last Tuesday of the month.  Come on in and save 15% on all books.

Super Tuesday is Tuesday, September 30^th.

AND SPEAKING OF SAVINGS – WE HOPE YOU RECEIVED A FLYER IN LAST FRIDAY’S STAR DEMOCRAT. BRING THE FLYER IN AND RECEIVE 15% OFF ON YOUR NEXT BOOK PURCHASE!

Upcoming Events –  SAVE THE DATES!

Friday, October 3^rd – Judy Center Benefit Sale

On Friday, October 3^rd, Harrison Street Books will celebrate the work of the Judy Center here in Talbot County.  We will donate a percentage of the day’s sales to the Judy Center.   We hope that you’ll come in, find a great read AND support a terrific organization.   Staff from the Judy Center will be here from 12p.m. to 8 p.m. to answer your questions about the Judy Center.

To understand more about the Judy Center and the goals of the program, please access the following website: http://mdk12.org/instruction/ensure/readiness/judy_centers_FAQ.html

Tuesday, October 7^th An Evening with Paolo Gianturco

On Tuesday, October 7^th the Women and Girls Fund will present An Evening with Paolo Gianturco (Acclaimed Photojournalist) at the Todd Performing Arts Center at Chesapeake College.  The program begins at 7:30 p.m.   Tickets are $25 (general admission) or $15 (students).

For the past twelve years, Paola Gianturco has worked as a photojournalist, documenting women’s lives in forty countries.   Her new book, Women Who Light the Dark (September 2007) is her fourth to be published.

Harrison Street Books will have this book for sale along with two other books – Celebrating Women and In Her Hands:  Craftwomen Changing the World. Paola will sign copies of books purchased that evening. Harrison Street Books will donate a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books to the Women and Girls Fund.

For more information about Paola and her work, please access her web-site at www.womenwholightthedark.com.

For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, please contact the Women and Girls Fund at 410.820.8175.

We hope to see you there!

Monday, October 20^th – Girl Talk- Read to Achieve

Girl Talk – Read to Achieve, a book club program that meets twice a week will be launched this fall in the Dorchester County Public Schools.  The mission of Girl Talk, a book club for at-risk adolescent girls, is to empower young women, through the discussion of literature, to become self-aware, active leaders in their communities while also increasing their reading achievement and ability to think critically.

We will be hosting an event at Harrison Street Books this October to help Elizabeth Devlin (founder of Girl Talk – Read to Achieve) introduce this important program to the community.

The event will be held on Monday, October 20th from 6 to 8 p.m. at the bookstore — if you are interested in attending, please contact us at 410.819.0000, or email us at harrisonstreetbooks@verizon.net.  We are excited to be partnering with Elizabeth and we hope you will join us for this special event.

New Fiction Picks of the Month ~

The Turnaround by George Pelecanos

American Wife by Curtis Sittenfeld

Telex from Cuba by Rachel Kushner

Home by Marilynne Robinson (author of Gilead)

The Good Thief by Hannah Tinti

American Savior – A Novel of Divine Politics by Roland Merullo (author of Breakfast with Buddha)

New Non-Fiction Picks of the Month ~

The War Within by Bob Woodward

Hot, Flat and Crowded by Thomas Friedman

Traffic – Why We Drive the Way We Do by Tom Vanderbilt

The Way We’ll by John Zogby

White Heat – The Friendship of Emily Dickinson & Thomas Wentworth Higginson by Brenda Wineapple

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High-tech testing, tolls pondered for Bay Bridge

by Margie Hyslop Staff Writer

The License Plate Recognition News

Transportation officials are looking at removing toll booths from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and adding high tech testing to annual inspections.

The changes are being considered as motorists endure multi-mile backups so workers can repair the older eastbound span where hidden deterioration was discovered after a tractor-trailer ran through the barrier Aug. 10.

Regular inspections are visual and could not have detected the corroded steel components found by radar and ultrasound probes ordered after the fatal accident.

“We are clearly going to revisit and work with the National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Highway [Administration] to see if we should do more non-destructive testing,” said Geoffrey Kohlberg, chief engineer for the Maryland Transportation Authority which operates and maintains the bridge.

Such testing is more expensive, Kohlberg said, but “as far as the authority is concerned, money is not the issue. We are going to do what’s needed ….”

For example, Kohlberg said, ground-penetrating radar tests recently conducted could be done on all the concrete, but he said it makes sense to figure out how to get a reasonable sample – perhaps 5 percent distributed across the spans with different spots checked each year.

But Sen. E.J. Pipkin said he has lost confidence in the agency’s ability to determine what tests are needed.

“If that concrete had not fallen into the Bay they would not have found the corrosion,” said Pipkin (R-Dist. 36) of Stevensville, who has called for the state to begin making plans for another bridge and for a full independent inspection of the bridge.

“This is a significant warning shot — there are no excuses not to take this to the absolute best level,” Pipkin said.

Kohlberg said the authority has checked 700, about half, of the bolts in the 56-year-old eastbound span and found corrosion in 150.

As for ending manual toll collection, and the traffic kinks it causes, that was on the table before the accident, authority spokeswoman Cheryl M. Sparks said.

The move would require motorists to buy an electronic E-Z Pass and place it in their vehicle where it can be read by sensors at toll facilities.

E-Z Pass is used in 12 states and motorists can use their pass at any E-Z Pass facility.

With “open road” or boothless tolling, motorists crossing the bridge without an E-Z pass would have their license plate photographed, said James Crawford, executive director of the E-Z Pass Interagency Group. Using the photograph, the state would send a bill.

Infrequent or one-time users can also pre-register and get billed a lower rate, but administrative and mailing costs are added to the toll for travelers without an E-Z Pass, Crawford said.

Open road tolling is planned for the Intercounty Connector, linking Gaithersburg and Laurel. It also is being used or planned for parts of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and Port Authority facilities in New York and New Jersey, Crawford said.

At the Bay Bridge, traffic flow improves about 22 percent when tolls are not taken.

“If you have statistics that show [that] why not require [removing tolls]” when back-ups are bad, asked Del. Michael D. Smigiel Sr. (R-Dist. 36) of Elkton, who, with Pipkin, left the Republican National Convention early to meet with Queen Anne’s County and state officials about the bridge.

Smigiel has also requested specifics about the ability of bridge barriers to withstand a crash.

“I want to know if we are making bad choices,” he said.