Farming and Food with Secretary Atticks

Ever wondered what happens when your food leaves the farm? Kevin Atticks, Maryland's Secretary of Agriculture, takes us behind the scenes of our food system with a fresh perspective that might change how you think about farming forever.Unlike his predecessors who typically came from traditional farming backgrounds, Atticks brings expertise in value-added agriculture—helping farmers transform their raw products into profitable goods like locally-distilled whiskey or farm-fresh ice cream. This innovative approach could be the key to saving Maryland's family farms for generations to come.The conversation reveals surprising connections between agriculture and everyday life. Did you know the Department of Agriculture regulates everything from gas pumps to grocery store scales? Or that we're now "four generations away from knowing a farmer"—creating a dangerous knowledge gap about where our food comes from?Atticks shares compelling visions for reconnecting communities with agriculture through innovative education programs where students help process local food for school lunches. He details plans for a Regional Agricultural Center in Anne Arundel County that could provide centralized processing facilities—allowing more farmers to create value-added products without navigating complex regulations individually.Modern farmers face unprecedented challenges: market uncertainties from shifting trade policies, competition for land from solar developers, and regulatory hurdles that can make innovation nearly impossible. But his practical solutions offer hope through creativity and collaboration.Whether you're a farmer seeking new revenue streams, a policy maker concerned about food security, or simply someone who enjoys knowing where your food comes from, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of Maryland agriculture. Listen and discover how supporting local food systems benefits everyone—from field to table.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Modern libraries have transformed far beyond their traditional role as book repositories, evolving into dynamic community hubs that serve diverse needs. During his conversation with County Executive Steuart Pittman, Skip Auld, CEO of Anne Arundel County Public Libraries, shares his 50-year perspective on this evolution.The Anne Arundel library system now offers a "library of things" - fishing poles, museum passes, and sewing machines alongside books, e-books, and audiobooks. Their 16 branches plus mobile outreach vehicles function as vital community centers where people gather, study, meet, and participate in programming that draws hundreds of thousands of attendees annually. The Discoveries Library at Westfield Annapolis Mall exemplifies this innovative approach, drawing visitors from across Maryland with its specialized programming.During challenging times, these libraries have proven themselves essential. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, they distributed masks, test kits, and gun locks as part of broader public health initiatives. When faced with book-banning movements, the Board of Trustees boldly declared the system a "book sanctuary," affirming their commitment to intellectual freedom and diverse materials.The future looks bright with several new branches in development. A state-of-the-art Glen Burnie Library will include a cultural resources lab and local history center. A unique partnership with the YMCA will create a new library in Millersville, while plans for a permanent Mountain Road branch are underway. These expansions reflect the county's recognition of libraries as essential community assets.Behind these services stand approximately 470 dedicated staff members who select materials, develop programming, and ensure libraries remain responsive to community needs. Their kindergarten readiness initiatives are particularly impactful, helping prepare children for school success in partnership with public and private educational institutions.Whether you're seeking knowledge, community connection, or practical resources, today's libraries stand ready to serve. If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

In this conversation, the Annapolis-born muralist Comacell Brown speaks with County Executive Steuart Pittman on how his artistic journey evolved from painting t-shirts in middle school to creating large-scale public art throughout Anne Arundel County and beyond.Brown takes us behind the scenes of the stunning Arundel Center mural, where he collaborated with fellow artist Cindy Fletcher Holden to transform a four-story "Great White Wall" into an interactive celebration of county life. The project's innovative augmented reality component brings elements of the mural to life through smartphone technology, complete with ambient sounds of birds chirping and Blue Angels flying overhead.What makes Brown's approach unique is his commitment to community involvement. Rather than imposing his vision, he conducts "jam sessions" where residents and stakeholders contribute ideas that shape his designs. This collaborative process creates unexpected connections: "Even when I leave, you'll see community members that maybe have lived next door to each other for years and never spoken. And then we get out on an art project, and you all are assisting and helping each other paint a straight line, and now you're talking every day."As creative director for Tunnel Vision and through his work with the Chase Your Dreams Initiative, Brown extends his artistic impact by engaging youth in basketball court renovation projects. These transformative experiences show troubled kids that "they just needed something to keep them active and show them a real role model."Brown's passion for community-building through art offers a powerful reminder that public spaces matter. Whether it's a basketball court in Meade Village or a downtown gathering place, art creates environments where diverse community members connect across generational, economic, and cultural divides. His closing advice to parents of artistic children resonates with anyone who believes in nurturing creative potential: "If you see them drawing, if they're one of the ones getting in trouble in school because they're always drawing – there's a silver lining in that artwork."Ready to see your community through an artist's eyes? Listen now and share this episode with someone who believes in the power of public art to transform neighborhoods and lives.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott joins County Executive Steuart Pittman for a candid conversation about Baltimore's remarkable public safety turnaround. The city is experiencing its lowest homicide rate in 50 years through a comprehensive public health approach to violence prevention. With $50 million invested in community violence intervention programs, Baltimore has expanded from four to ten Safe Streets sites where credible messengers – often those who previously participated in street life – intervene in conflicts before they escalate."When the community steps up to do it in a different way, some folks push back," Mayor Scott notes, addressing the resistance he's faced from traditional power brokers. Despite this opposition, his administration has implemented innovative strategies, including hospital-based violence response teams and a focused deterrence model that combines support services with accountability.The conversation reveals how prevention plays an equally crucial role. Under Scott's leadership, Baltimore has increased its Recreation and Parks budget by 40%, investing $200 million in capital projects, including new pools and recreation centers with extended hours. This summer alone, 12,000 students participated in learning programs while 8,500 young people secured employment through YouthWorks.Mayor Scott also addresses Baltimore's structural challenges, particularly its limited tax base with 25% of property being tax-exempt due to hospitals, universities, and government buildings. His administration has reduced vacant properties from 16,000 to 12,000 through innovative financing approaches, with a $3 billion plan to eliminate vacancies entirely.Ultimately, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott's journey from Park Heights to City Hall represents a profound shift in leadership – one where lived experience meets 18 years of government service to create transformative change. More importantly, his leadership proves that when core cities thrive, entire regions benefit. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in governance, violence prevention, and equitable community development.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Housing is at a crisis point in Maryland, with a shortage of nearly 100,000 units driving up costs and leaving communities struggling. In this eye-opening conversation, County Executive Steuart Pittman sits down with Maryland Housing Secretary Jake Day to unpack not just the problems, but the potential solutions.Secretary Day brings a fascinating background to his role—from small-town Eastern Shore kid to Salisbury mayor to state cabinet secretary. His journey through architecture school, military service, and local government has shaped his perspective on how housing connects to every aspect of community well-being. "I never sought to become the housing mayor," Day explains, "but it became a thing that happened" as he witnessed firsthand how the pandemic accelerated existing housing challenges.What makes this conversation particularly valuable is the candid discussion of policy approaches. Day outlines his "three-legged stool" framework—increasing housing supply through reduced regulations, ensuring affordability through targeted interventions, and implementing renter protections for vulnerable populations. Beyond policy mechanics, the conversation delves into the philosophy of community building. Day reflects on his early work with a land conservation organization, where he learned that thriving towns need both environmental protection and smart development. This balanced approach, respecting local character while acknowledging the urgent need for more housing, offers a distinctly "Maryland solution" to a problem facing communities nationwide.Whether you're a policy wonk, a community advocate, or simply someone concerned about housing affordability, this episode provides valuable insights into one of the most pressing challenges facing our communities today. How can we build more housing without sacrificing the character that makes our neighborhoods special? The answers might surprise you.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Tourism is evolving beyond simple transactions – it's now about creating transformational experiences that benefit both visitors and residents alike. In this enlightening conversation with County Executive Steuart Pittman, Kristen Pironis, CEO of Visit Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, reveals how she revitalized the organization during a challenging transition period to become a dynamic force for community development.Pironis took a leap of faith when she left a comfortable 16-year career at the Naval Academy Alumni Association to lead a tourism organization during a pandemic. That confidence has transformed the organization, which now champions both visitor experiences and community wellbeing across Anne Arundel County.The statistics speak volumes – Anne Arundel County represents 20% of Maryland's tourism while containing just 10% of the state's population. This remarkable impact stems from the county's extraordinary assets: 530 miles of coastline, the internationally recognized Chesapeake Bay, vibrant historic districts, and diverse attractions from BWI Airport to South County's agricultural treasures.Exciting developments include federal funding for electric ferry service connecting Annapolis with Baltimore and across the bay, the transformation of City Dock from parking lot to vibrant public space, and the organization's new role leading international tourism marketing for the entire state of Maryland. Pironis has also established a 501(c)(3) foundation alongside their existing organization to address tourism's broader impacts on workforce housing, transportation, and sustainability.What truly distinguishes Anne Arundel's approach is its commitment to authentic storytelling and inclusive history. From expanding the narrative at historic sites to creating award-winning civil rights guides, the organization ensures visitors connect with the full spectrum of the region's heritage. Programs like Anne Arundel River Days introduce local schoolchildren to their waterways, fostering community pride while building future environmental stewards. You can find out more about all their events and attractions at visitannapolis.org. If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Listen to County Executive Steuart Pittman and Joe Toolan candidly discuss growth, visibility, and the life-saving power of community. Joe Toolan, chair of Annapolis Pride, shares his remarkable journey from feeling isolated as a young gay person of color in Pasadena, Maryland, to leading one of the region's most impactful LGBTQ+ organizations. Born in Guatemala and adopted at three months old, Toolan's early experiences of difference shaped his commitment to ensuring no one feels alone in their identity.The upcoming Annapolis Pride Parade, featuring 250+ organizations and drawing crowds of 10,000+, represents more than just celebration—it's a vital lifeline in a time when LGBTQ+ youth experience disproportionate rates of suicide and mental health challenges. What makes this parade special is its distinctly family-friendly atmosphere, setting it apart from larger city celebrations while creating space for connection across generations.County Executive Steuart Pittman reflects honestly on his own evolution, from first attending Pride to running joyfully with a rainbow flag. This evolution mirrors the organization's approach to advocacy: building bridges through kindness rather than confrontation. Even when meeting with groups holding opposing viewpoints like Moms for Liberty, Annapolis Pride prioritizes human connection over heated rhetoric.Beyond the parade, Annapolis Pride works year-round on advocacy initiatives, intersectional partnerships with groups like Juneteenth organizers, and community education. As the organization grows toward hiring its first executive director and establishing a community center, its core mission remains unchanged: creating visibility that saves lives and communities where everyone can authentically belong.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

What happens when a community decides to embrace rather than reject those returning from incarceration? Anne Arundel County has discovered a powerful answer through an innovative partnership between detention facilities and community organizations.This eye-opening conversation brings together Superintendent of Detention Facilities Chris Klein and Joshua Hatch, Vice President of Community Action Agency's diversion and reentry services. Together, they reveal how their unique collaboration has created a seamless system of support that begins inside detention facilities and continues throughout the reintegration process.At the heart of their approach is the groundbreaking Reentry Hub concept at Ordinance Road Detention Center. Unlike traditional correctional models that discourage former detainees from returning, this hub actually invites justice-involved individuals to access services in a familiar environment. "Come back if you need us," explains Klein. "Come back the right way versus coming back the wrong way."The conversation takes a powerful turn when Hatch shares his own journey from serving 10 years in prison to leading Maryland's statewide task force on reentry services. His personal testimony—"I've worn all the colors: green, blue, orange"—provides unique credibility when working with program participants. This authenticity, combined with practical support like transitional housing, job training, and employment connections, has created remarkable success stories.Perhaps most compelling is how this approach transforms our understanding of public safety. As Hatch explains, investing in reentry isn't just about compassion—it's a "true investment in public safety" that benefits the entire community. In an economy desperately seeking workers, connecting returning citizens with stable employment (particularly through partners like Luminous Health) creates a win-win scenario.Whether you're interested in criminal justice reform, community development, or innovative governance, this conversation offers a masterclass in how collaborative leadership can break cycles of incarceration and create pathways to meaningful second chances.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

 In this revealing conversation with County Executive Steuart Pittman, Chief Awad opens up about the extraordinary path that led her to law enforcement leadership.At just nine years old, following her father's departure, Awad became a co-parent to her six siblings, navigating life in economically challenged neighborhoods while watching her mother struggle to provide. This firsthand experience with adversity shaped her understanding of community needs and cultivated leadership skills that would define her career. Two high school teachers recognized her potential, investing in her development and igniting a passion for public service that eventually led her to a 23-year career with Prince George's County Police before taking the helm in Anne Arundel.Chief Awad offers listeners a rare glimpse into modern policing philosophy, detailing the department's commitment to de-escalation training through the ICAT (Integrating Communications, Assessment and Tactics) program. Rather than focusing on force escalation, officers are trained to slow situations down when dealing with mental health crises—a reflection of how policing has evolved to meet community needs.The conversation delves into technological innovations like the Real-Time Information Center, which coordinates emergency responses using camera systems, helicopter footage, and body-worn cameras to improve officer safety and response effectiveness. But beyond technology and tactics, Awad emphasizes relationships as the cornerstone of effective policing.Speaking during National Police Week, Chief Awad addresses the challenges of recruiting in today's environment, making a heartfelt appeal for service-oriented individuals who understand that behind each badge beats a heart committed to community safety. For those considering careers in law enforcement, her message is clear: this profession offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in people's lives during their most vulnerable moments.If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV

Peek behind the curtain of local government finance with County Executive Steuart Pittman and Budget Officer Chris Trumbauer as they reveal how Anne Arundel County achieves fiscal resilience while expanding essential services.Trumbauer, who initially joined the administration as a Director of Policy and Communications before becoming Budget Officer, brings unique insight into the county's financial strategy. "Budget isn't numbers," he explains. "Budget's about values, budget's about people." This philosophy has guided the county through six budget cycles, creating what Trumbauer calls "a strong fiscal foundation" that protects residents during economic uncertainty.The conversation illuminates Anne Arundel's remarkable financial achievements: maintaining the lowest tax rates in Central Maryland, securing AAA bond ratings from all three major agencies, and building a $170 million rainy day fund—all while delivering record education funding and absorbing $12 million in costs shifted from the state. Trumbauer reveals the "secret sauce" that makes this possible, including conservative revenue projections and strategic long-term planning.Most compelling is their discussion of fiscal responsibility as a moral imperative. When economic windfalls came during real estate booms, the county deliberately avoided spending temporary surges on recurring expenses—unlike many jurisdictions that later faced painful deficits. "We fix our roof when it's sunny," Trumbauer notes, explaining how this approach creates resilience against potential storms on the economic horizon.For anyone interested in how government actually works, this conversation offers a masterclass in responsible governance that balances fiscal discipline with community needs. If you like the stories and insights in Pittman and Friends, be sure to follow the County Executive on social media and sign up for his Weekly Letter using the links below. Weekly Letter: https://www.aacounty.org/county-executive/steuart-pittman/pittmans-pen/weekly-letterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AACoExecX (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/AACoExecInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AACoExec/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArundelTV