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Tidal Guardian: The Chesapeake Mermaid’s Environmental Quest
Deaf artist goes beyond aesthetics to make a tangible impact on the world
Caption: At the Talbot County Free Library, families learn bay creature sign language from the Chesapeake Mermaid during the Waterfowl Festival. The mobile habitat, featuring a 12-foot oyster reef crafted by volunteers using recycled materials, adds a unique creative element to the interactive program. Credit: The Chesapeake Mermaid, Inc.
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Chesapeake Mermaid, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education. Through programs, books, and activities, they focus on Chesapeake Bay wildlife and habitats, promoting daily environmental stewardship. The unique outreach is designed based on trusted first-hand experiences gained through wildlife rescue and habitat restoration.
Their series of story and activity books has recently expanded its sales offerings to include Page After Page at the Maryland Renaissance Festival, providing even more opportunities for audiences to engage with their captivating tales and support environmental education initiatives. Additionally, the author will be appearing at the Maryland Renaissance Festival, to meet with fans and sign storybooks, creating a personalized and interactive experience for readers.
Originating from a personal blog in 2010, the Chesapeake Mermaid nonprofit evolved through tales contributed by the Mermaid and fellow nature enthusiasts. As their involvement expanded, videos showcased experiences, transitioning to imaginative storytelling on social media in 2013. By 2015, live shows, including the interactive storytime “The Last Bivalvian,” took shape.
In 2017, the Chesapeake Mermaid faced an unforeseen challenge, going deaf overnight from a rare bacterial infection. Undeterred, she created “The Last Bivalvian” storybook in those first three months, determined to continue engaging with audiences. Over the next couple of years, the organization navigated the challenge of integrating deaf programming into their shows.
Their hour-long programs include sign language, movement, storytelling, song, and environmental preservation contributions. They cater to schools, parks, museums, festivals, and more, engaging up to 30,000 individuals annually. The organization is independent and unaffiliated with their calendar often set a year in advance.
Caption: Explore enchanting storybooks with two maps, magical illustrations, interesting science facts, environmental tips, and a delightful song available for purchase at Page After Page during the bustling Maryland Renaissance Festival. Credit: The Chesapeake Mermaid, Inc.
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The Chesapeake Mermaid offers high-quality picture books that delve into the history and challenges of the Chesapeake Bay. These books can be purchased at events and select retail outlets. All funds donated to the organization are used for developing and presenting more environmental education programs.
During the pandemic, they adapted by creating The Studio at Mermaid Grove, a permanent setup for virtual programs catering to the needs of the deaf community. Construction began in 2020, with the first virtual shows in 2021. Construction continues while balancing their support of nature and performance schedule.
Caption: During 2023, the Chesapeake Mermaid team dedicated over 188 hours and covered a distance exceeding 6,256 miles to contribute to wildlife rescue efforts along the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. Credit: The Chesapeake Mermaid, Inc.
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While the nonprofit balanced growth, artistry, and environmental commitments, they encountered brand confusion as some cosplayers and influencers portrayed environmental stewardship merely as an aesthetic under similar themes. Despite encountering theft, damage, and bullying, their books gained attention and grew in demand, leading to appearances for American Sign Language Day at the bookshop Page After Page at the Maryland Renaissance Festival in 2023. The inviting atmosphere during this event resulted in a complete sell-out of their latest coloring and activity books, which highlight 120 Chesapeake native plants and wildlife along with their corresponding sign language spellings.
The Chesapeake Mermaid team eagerly anticipates continued expansion, creating innovative programs infused with art and storytelling. They are excited about returning to the Maryland Renaissance Festival on Sunday, October 6, 2024 for American Sign Language Day and continuing to support the needs of the deaf community. As they embrace the journey of learning sign language and lip reading, they invite everyone to come up and say hello in whatever means of communication feels comfortable to them.
Visit ChesapeakeMermaid.com for more information. Follow Facebook.com/ChesapeakeMermaid https://www.facebook.com/ChesapeakeMermaid for the latest news and updates.
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Author’s Note: This interview was provided by Chesapeake Mermaid. This article was by The Chesapeake Mermaid.
