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January 17, 2026

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

1C Commerce

Chesapeake Fire & Ice is Back For 2026

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The Easton EDC is thrilled to announce Chesapeake Fire & Ice, presented by Preston Automotive Group, a two-day spectacular family-friendly ice carving festival on Friday, February 20th & Saturday, February 21st, 2026.

This free event will feature interactive, larger-than-life ice sculptures, live music, seasonal sales, restaurant specials, lodging specials, and more entertainment. Cascading Carlos will also return to wow audiences with fire juggling and other tricks on Friday night and Saturday afternoon at Thompson Park. The fire trail will be a tasty trek filled with delicious bites, warm drinks, tasting sessions, and shopping. For more details and maps, visit the festival’s webpage at www.discovereaston.com/fireandice or stop by the Easton Visitors Center at 11 South Harrison Street, Easton, MD.

“Chesapeake Fire & Ice is a fantastic event that showcases downtown at its winter best,” stated Tom Maglio, the Marketing & Events Manager of the Easton EDC. “So many people come together to make this event better and better each year, and we are excited to celebrate artistry and community.”

For details on all activities, please visit: www.DiscoverEaston.com or email [email protected]. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or participating in this event, please contact [email protected].

Easton EDC fosters economic vitality and community development by encouraging investment, promoting tourism, and positioning Easton, Maryland, as a premier destination to live, work, visit, and do business.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Taste of Easton Announced for Spring 2026

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The Easton Economic Development Corporation is proud to announce the first Taste of Easton and Easton Restaurant Week coming in Spring 2026. The two events are designed to celebrate all of the diverse culinary excellence that Easton has to offer.

Things kick off with the Taste of Easton on April 26th at the Tidewater Inn.  A wide variety of restaurants from all over Easton will offer tastes of their culinary expertise.  This ticketed event will offer music, cocktails, and an afternoon of dining adventure.  Following the kick-off event, we launched Restaurant Week, April 27th to May 2nd, a six-day culinary event featuring curated menus, restaurant specials, and specials all over Easton.

“Easton has an incredible culinary scene that is bursting with variety,” said Holly DeKarske, Executive Director of the Easton EDC. “The local flavor here includes a lot, from local seafood and lively bistros and bars to creative cuisine by James Beard award-winning chefs. This event is our opportunity to showcase the very best the town has to offer.”

 

Easton Economic Development invites all restaurants with an Easton address to participate and to contact them directly with inquiries. Sponsorship opportunities are available to help make this event as successful as possible, and any interested parties should reach out to Tom Maglio, Easton EDC’s Marketing and Events Manager, directly at [email protected].
 

About Easton Economic Development Corporation:

The Easton EDC fosters economic vitality and community development by encouraging investment, promoting tourism, and positioning Easton, Maryland, as a premier destination to live, work, visit, and do business.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton Prepares For Shop Small Saturday 2025

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The holiday season kicks off in Easton with Shop Small Saturday! On November 29th, locals can show their support for the backbone of the state’s economy – small businesses.

During Shop Small Saturday, downtown shops will showcase the latest styles and gifts for the season. This day is the perfect time to find great holiday presents and invites residents and visitors to explore Easton, uncover hidden gems, and connect with the business owners who make Easton’s local shops and eateries special. DJ E-Shore will also be downtown, keeping the festive spirit alive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“It is more important than ever to encourage locals and visitors to support local business,” stated Holly DeKarske, Executive Director of Easton Economic Development Corporation. “Easton’s businesses thrive because our business owners love their community and love sharing that passion with anyone who walks through their door. That community spirit is something we love for everyone to experience during the holidays.”

For more information on all of the great downtown Easton holiday events, please visit our website www.DiscoverEaston.com and click on the Holiday in Easton tab.

The Easton EDC fosters economic vitality and community development by encouraging investment, promoting tourism, and positioning Easton, Maryland, as a premier destination to live, work, visit, and do business.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton Residents Invited to Shape the Future of Public Art with Creative Placemaking Workshop

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Easton is taking its first major step toward creating a public art master plan — with the community at its core. On Saturday, October 18th, residents and stakeholders are invited to The Market at Dover Station (500 Dover Road) from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. to explore the power of Creative Placemaking and see how sparks of creativity can lead to lasting change.

The focus will start in the East End Neighborhood, with our consultant – and new East End artist resident – Deborah Patterson leading the effort to transform Dover Road and the Rail Trail into a vibrant gateway to Easton through public art. While she will facilitate the discussion, the true vision will come from the community.

“The process is about more than art – it’s about the community,” says Patterson. “We want every voice to be heard, and every idea has the power to shape what comes next.”

The Creative Placemaking process is an organic, bottom-up, inclusive opportunity for residents and stakeholders to reimagine their neighborhood spaces through their own original ideas and imagination.

This event is free and open to all. 

About Easton Economic Development Corporation:

Easton Economic Development Corporation was launched in 2013 to drive economic vitality, smart redevelopment, and business creation in the historic Town of Easton, Maryland, to foster a healthy quality of life for all generations. The Easton EDC works to catalyze Greater Easton’s continued prosperity as a diverse and healthy “smart town,” leading innovation where the land and water meet.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton’s Holiday Parade Returns for the 2025 Holiday Season

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Join the holiday cheer downtown for the annual Easton Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 6th, at 6:30 pm. Enjoy over 60 decked-out vehicles, floats, and novelties ready to spread the festive holiday spirit to all. Registration will be open from September 15th to October 17th, or until capacity is reached, allowing businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups to sign up and join this well-loved community tradition.

The evening will begin with a visit from Santa at 5:30 pm in Thompson Park and the tree lighting at 6 pm. The parade will then start at 6:30 pm.  The parade route will run from Talbot Town, south on Harrison Street, loop on South Street, and head north on Washington Street, past our panel of judges at the courthouse.

Entries will be judged on Best Nonprofit, Best Business, and Best Marching Band.

The Parade sign-up form will be online at discovereaston.com/christmas-in-easton/ on September 15th, 2025, and will close once capacity is reached. Late entries will be added to a waitlist. Please note that there is limited capacity and parade registration always fills up long before the closing date, so do not delay in registering.

For more information, email Tom Maglio at [email protected].

About Easton Economic Development Corporation:

Easton Economic Development Corporation was launched in 2013 to drive economic vitality, smart redevelopment, and business creation in the historic Town of Easton, Maryland, to foster a healthy quality of life for all generations. The Easton EDC works to catalyze Greater Easton’s continued prosperity as a diverse and healthy “smart town,” leading innovation where the land and water meet.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton’s Fall Kickoff Returns For 2025

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Carve out some time for Easton’s Fall Kickoff on October 3rd and 4th, 2025!

Shop, dine, and stroll the giant pumpkin trail in downtown Easton on Friday and Saturday, with shops and galleries open and ready to help you get ready for the fall season. Visitors will have a chance to see the artists from Icelab work their magic as giant gourds transform into stunning works of art. The live carvings will be happening throughout downtown Easton on Friday evening and Saturday morning. Friday night also features live outdoor music from 5 pm to 7 pm, and many downtown restaurants will offer autumn-inspired specials and cocktails.

October’s First Friday Gallery Walk is also a great opportunity to discover incredible, vibrant pieces from many talented artists. The Working Artists Forum and special guests invite you to attend Pretty in Pink, a fine art sale on Friday, October 3rd, from 4 pm to 8 pm, and Saturday, October 4th, from 11 am to 4 pm in the Waterfowl Building, 40 South Harrison Street. This free event honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with proceeds benefiting the Clark Comprehensive Breast Center.

There will also be free pumpkin painting and a free movie night with an outdoor screening of Monster House downtown on Friday evening.

On Saturday between 10 am and 2 pm, Easton EDC is partnering with the Talbot County Free Library to host a kids and family activity center during the festivities.

“The fall season always highlights the beauty of our town,” said Holly DeKarske, Executive Director of the Easton EDC. “With pumpkin carving demos, our stores and restaurants dressed in their autumn best, and our always lively art scene, Easton truly celebrates the season in the best way.”

There are so many ways to kick off fall in downtown Easton! For more info on this activity-packed weekend and a map of the event, click the link below:

https://discovereaston.com/fallkickoff/

For more information, email Tom Maglio at [email protected].

About Easton Economic Development Corporation:

Easton Economic Development Corporation was launched in 2013 to drive economic vitality, smart redevelopment, and business creation in the historic Town of Easton, Maryland, to foster a healthy quality of life for all generations. The Easton EDC works to catalyze Greater Easton’s continued prosperity as a diverse and healthy “smart town,” leading innovation where the land and water meet.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton EDC Announces New Board Leadership

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Easton Economic Development Corporation (Easton EDC) is pleased to announce the appointment of new Board Officers. The Easton EDC has appointed Tom Klein as Chairman of the Board, Anthony Kern as Vice Chair, Frank Gunsallus III as Treasurer, Jessica Mumbulo as Secretary, and Vince Dongarra as a new member of the board. Each new appointee brings valuable insights and experience to the Easton EDC’s leadership team.

 

Tom Klein had a 30-year career with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  Since that time, he has volunteered in numerous capacities, currently serving on the Town of Easton’s Planning Commission, Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, and as the Town’s representative to Talbot County Parks Advisory Board. Tom has served on the Easton EDC Board for the past 4 years.

Anthony Kern joined the board of the Easton EDC shortly after its inception. He is a strong believer in maintaining and improving a thriving, vibrant historic downtown. Anthony is a retired senior managing partner with Deloitte, the largest of the global consulting and accounting firms. He is also Chair of Qlarant, Vice Chair of the Waterfowl Festival, Chair of the Talbot County Ethics Commission, and President of the Board of the Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship Center.

Frank Gunsallus III is the general manager of Konsyl Pharmaceuticals, whom he joined in 2012.   He earned his B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy, an M.B.A. from National University, and an M.A. in National Security and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. After graduating from the Naval Academy, Frank served in the U.S. Navy for over 20 years, retiring at the rank of Commander. Following his retirement, Frank returned to Easton as Chief Operations Officer and Senior Vice President of the Japan Spectroscopic Corporation (JASCO) for five years.

Jessica Mumbulo serves as the Business Development Manager at Willow Construction, LLC, where she plays a pivotal role in generating leads and promoting the firm. Jessica is very active in the business community on the Delmarva Peninsula, working with developers, contractors, and business leaders from all industries.

Vincent Dongarra specializes in business, commercial, administrative, and healthcare law at McAllister, DeTar, Showalter & Walker LLC. He provides counsel to both large and small companies, including nonprofit organizations, to help them achieve their business and charitable goals while ensuring compliance with intricate federal and state regulations. He advises clients on various business transactions, including the sale and restructuring of facilities and operations, entity conversions, compliance with policies and procedures, and licensing transitions.

Easton Economic Development Corporation was launched in 2013 to drive economic vitality, smart redevelopment, and business creation in the historic Town of Easton, Maryland, to foster a healthy quality of life for all generations. The Easton EDC works to catalyze Greater Easton’s continued prosperity as a diverse and healthy “smart town,” leading innovation where the land and water meet.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Talbot County launches series of open houses to shape new economic development strategic plan

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The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism is inviting business leaders, elected officials, and community members to attend a series of public open houses designed to help shape the county’s economic future.
As part of the effort to develop a new economic development strategic plan, the department has partnered with nationally recognized consulting firm Camoin Associates to lead the planning process. Community input will play a vital role in identifying priorities, challenges, and opportunities for growth.
“These conversations are critical to the future of Talbot County,” said Cassandra Vanhooser, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “We’re looking to our residents, our businesses, and our civic leaders to help us create a roadmap that reflects the values, needs, and aspirations of our community.”
The come-and-go open houses are designed to be relaxed, informal gatherings where participants can share insights, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue. Representatives from Camoin Associates will be present at each session to gather input directly from stakeholders.
Open House schedule is as follows:
  • Tuesday, May 6 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Trappe Fire House
  • Wednesday, May 7 | 7–10 a.m. – St. Michaels Community Center
  • Wednesday, May 7 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Tilghman Fire House
  • Thursday, May 8 | 7–10 a.m. – Oxford Community Center
  • Thursday, May 8 | 4:30–7:30 p.m. – Cordova Fire House
  • Friday, May 9 | 7–10 a.m. – Talbot County Free Library, Easton Branch
Participants may pick the location that is most convenient to their schedule. Those who stop by will be invited to share their thoughts on a variety of topics, including barriers to economic prosperity, untapped opportunities, and strategies for supporting and attracting businesses.
“We really want to hear what people think,” Vanhooser says. “What we do now will help create a thriving future for generations to come. Let’s build a stronger Talbot County—together.”
For more information, visit www.TalbotWorks.org or contact the Department of Economic Development and Tourism at 410-770-8000.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Talbot County Business Academy announces 14 new graduates

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The Talbot County Council recognized Talbot Works Business Academy Cohort III graduates at a recent meeting. Pictured front row, from left: Cassandra Vanhooser, Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism; Councilwoman Keasha Haythe; Maria Bowser, In Vein Phlebotomy; Dr. Kristen Lysett, Phillips Wharf Environmental Center; Ann Casamento, Easton Advanced Aesthetics; Nolan Laguna, Laguna Floor Care; Olamide Adejumo, Motivar Consulting. Back Row: Lamont Powell, The Powell’s Trash Removal; Johanna Duke, Jo’s Southern Kitchen & Bar; Jen Wagner, Jen Wagner Mosaics; Pam Limberry, Care Partner Perfection; Jeffrey Mathias, Mathias Marine Services; Michelle Haynes, Care Partner Perfection; Jair Devereaux, JustJai2; Demar Mundy, DM Trucking; Amanda Cook, Tilghman Island Baking Company; and Monika Mraz, Doehrn Tea Co.

The Talbot County Council awarded graduation certificates to 14 participants of the Talbot Works Business Academy on Tuesday, April 8, at their regular meeting. The business owners recently completed an 8-week entrepreneurship course sponsored by the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
Business Academy Cohort III graduates include Olamide O. Adejumo, Motivar Consulting; Maria R. Bowser, In Vein Phlebotomy, LLC; Ann M. Casamento, Easton Advanced Aesthetics, LLC; Amanda J. Cook, Tilghman Island Baking Company, LLC; Jair A. Devereaux, JusJai2, LLC; Johanna G. Duke, Southern Jo’s Kitchen and Bar; Nolan D. Laguna, Laguna Floor Care, LLC; Pamela N. Limberry, Care Partner Perfection, LLC; Kristen A. Lycett, Phillips Wharf Environmental Center, Inc.; Jeffrey Mathias, Mathias Marine Services, LLC; Monika Mraz, Doehrn Tea Company, LLC; Demar L. Mundy, DM Trucking, LLC; Lamont T. Powell, The Powell’s Trash Removal Service, LLC; and Jen E. Wagner, Jen Wagner Mosaics.
The program was made possible through funding from the Mid-Shore Regional Council and the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund. The course was developed and conducted by WHC, a Baltimore-based consulting firm that offers business capital, coaching, and operational solutions to emerging companies.
“This has been important in helping me examine some aspects of the business and establish a better foundation for it,” says Mathias Marine owner Jeffrey Mathias. “I look forward to seeing what we can do going forward now.”
Each cohort member was required to meet the program’s guidelines for inclusion in the class, including demonstrating the ability to scale their operations, hire people, and have a positive impact on their community.
“This program has helped me prepare for my business’s future by reassessing outdated practices and embracing smarter strategies,” Jen Wagner adds. “It shifted my mindset on using loans and working capital. It really gave me clarity on my next 12 months, allowing me to actively seek new jobs and opportunities, increase my revenue, and drive my growth.”
Class members were also required to attend and participate in each class, meet with senior advisors specializing in law, accounting, human resources, and marketing, create cash flow projections, and give a final 15-minute presentation detailing their plans for business growth.
“The program absolutely helped us to refocus our attention on not letting our business be just a hobby, but an actual functioning business,” says Pamela Limberry, who remarked that the cash flow projection tools were especially beneficial for her business.
Amanda Cook, owner of Tilghman Island Baking Co., agrees. “For me, this class was a great perspective to take a step back and really look at my business and focus on the parts that need to be focused on,” Cook notes. “It gives you a different thought process on how to creatively solve problems.”
At the graduation, Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism, reflected on the program’s impact on all three cohorts of graduates. She noted the successes of several of the business owners, including those who have expanded and hired new employees.
“This is what your investment is doing in this community,” Vanhooser told the Council in her closing remarks. “And this is why we asked you to support this program.”
Vanhooser says each graduate receives a certificate and a $2,000 grant to reinvest in their business. All cohorts are required to report on their business growth over the coming years, including increased revenue and the number of jobs they’ve added.
Program facilitator Will Holmes joined the graduates at Scossa Restaurant for a reception and thanked the Talbot County Council and the Economic Development team for their support in bringing the program to the County.
“The program is eight weeks long,” says Holmes. “We focus heavily on cash flow projections as a foundation of the program to ensure that people understand their numbers, so they can plan ahead on when to hire people, when to expand, and how much it will cost. It helps them understand how to access capital and how to build the team that they need so they can really grow and be successful.”
The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s mission is to enhance and promote a business-friendly environment for current and prospective enterprises and to advocate for policies that support and strengthen the economic vitality of Talbot County. The department’s vision for Talbot County is built on the principles of strong communities, empowered businesses, and innovative solutions.
Business owners and managers are encouraged to receive the department’s Talbot Works newsletter and breaking business news by subscribing at www.talbotworks.org. The department can also be reached at 410-770-8058 or by visiting their office at 215 Bay Street, Easton, Md.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Easton’s First Friday Gallery Walk kickoff and Arts & Entertainment district branding

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Easton EDC is pleased to announce the beginning of this year’s First Friday Gallery Walk on April 4th, 2025.

Hosting renowned galleries, studios, and performances that showcase the town’s rich artistic heritage, Easton, Maryland offers a unique and diverse cultural experience. The art scene in Easton is vibrant with 18 venues, including 14 art galleries in the historic Arts & Entertainment District. The First Friday Gallery Walk features all the art galleries extending their hours from 5 pm to 7 pm with special exhibits, artist talks, new works of art, and unparalleled hospitality.

Easton EDC is also excited to unveil the new branding and marketing for the Arts & Entertainment District. The Arts & Entertainment District is designated by the Maryland State Arts Council. To enhance the visitor experience in Easton, the branding highlights the many artistic establishments in the historic district. More information can be found on the DiscoverEaston.com Arts and Entertainment landing page, printed materials, and light pole banners.

For more information about all Easton EDC programs and initiatives, contact Holly DeKarske, Executive Director of Easton Economic Development Corporation, via email at  [email protected] or call (410) 690-7348.

About Easton Economic Development Corporation:

Easton Economic Development Corporation was launched in 2013 to drive economic vitality, smart redevelopment, and business creation in the historic Town of Easton, Maryland, to foster a healthy quality of life for all generations. The EEDC works to catalyze Greater Easton’s continued prosperity as a diverse and healthy “smart town,” leading innovation where the land and water meet.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.