CALIFORNIA, Md. — A pivotal forum, the Exchange: A Regional Planning Forum, is set for April 20, 2024, aiming to draw on public engagement for the preservation and celebration of Southern Maryland's rich heritage. The day-long event, running from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., will convene at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland's SMART Building. This gathering marks a significant effort by the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area organizers to outline a decade-long strategy for the region, which includes Calvert, Charles, St. Mary's, and southern Prince George's County.
Lucille Walker, the executive director of the National Heritage Area, highlighted the forum's purpose: "We named this event the 'Exchange' to emphasize that success will result from working together to preserve, commemorate, celebrate and share Southern Maryland's important stories and places." The initiative requires pre-registration by April 18 and promises a blend of discussions facilitated by experts on diverse topics such as youth engagement, historic preservation, and the stewardship of landscapes.
The sessions are designed to be collaborative, with a focus on brainstorming and sharing knowledge to influence the area's future direction. According to Walker, the forum represents a critical opportunity for community members to contribute their insights towards the National Heritage Area's vision and objectives.
The forum's significance is underscored by a keynote address from Rep. Steny Hoyer, who, along with Sen. Ben Cardin and Sen. Chris Van Hollen, played a pivotal role in Congress's 2022 designation of the Southern Maryland National Heritage Area. This legislative support highlights the national recognition of the region's historical and cultural value.
Following the discussions, a reception at Historic Sotterley, a UNESCO Site of Memory for the Routes of Enslaved Peoples and a National Historic Landmark, will provide further opportunity for networking and reflection on the day's insights.
The forum is open to all interested parties, with organizers stressing the importance of community involvement in the heritage area's success. The event, including breakfast and lunch, is offered at no cost to participants, though registration is mandatory.
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