USA Today on O’Brien’s Leadership
Writing about “rising rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation,” USA Today notes Walden Wise, created by its CEO Kathleen O’Brien, as an early leader in the shift of “attention toward prevention and early support rather than crisis response alone.” Walden Wise provides adults with free information and instructions to support well-being in the children in their lives through everyday activities and conversation.
Vets’ Jobless Rate Worsens
Unemployment rates jumped for all veterans in January, up to 4.5% from 3.8% in December. Vets in the post-9/11 generation saw unemployment rise from 5.1% to 5.8%. Military Times. The monthly report jobless rates for veterans exceeding the general population for the second time since January 2025.
Students Can Apply for NAWCAD Workshop
The 2026 Functional Areas of Business summer workshop will be offered at NAS Patuxent River from June 22 to 25 for rising high school juniors, seniors, and 2026 high school graduates to explore a variety of business disciplines supporting the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division.
Federal Funding for YMCA in St. Mary’s
Several Maryland Fifth District projects–including the YMCA under construction on Great Mills Road in Lexington Park–received federal funding this month.
Message from the Cap’n — The Great Clam Rush
There was a time clams in local waters around Piney Point provided a type of Gold Rush for Chesapeake clammers. Back then the clams were plentiful and sparked a rush. Today they’re scare, but their value approaches gold.
Navy Jet Design Contest Accepting Entries
The US Navy calls on students across Southern Maryland to draw on their innovation and creativity to design naval aviation’s next jet in a NAWCAD competition. Designs are due by March 13.
18 Schools Compete in MATHCOUNTS
The region’s annual MATHCOUNTS competition marked its 32nd anniversary on February 7. More than 200 students from 18 schools gathered in Prince Frederick to test their math skills.
Marine Corps Passes DoD Audit for 3rd Year in a Row
For the third year in a row, the US Marine Corps has passed its fiscal 2025 financial audit.
Pax Sets Noise Advisory Feb. 17
Communities surrounding Naval Air Station Patuxent River are advised that noise-generating testing events are scheduled to take place February 17, 2026, from 6 to 9pm.
HSMC to Offer Ms. Story’s Living History Performance
Ms. Story’s Living History, one-woman theatrical performance, will be offered at Historic St. Mary’s City at 6pm Friday, February 20, 2026.
