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July 18, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

1C Commerce

Free Business Seminar at BAAM Academic Center on June 28

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Local business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to attend Solid Foundations, Limitless Futures: Building a Sustainable Business, a free business seminar designed to help companies establish strong operational foundations and discover essential tools for long-term success.
The seminar will take place on Saturday, June 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Building African American Minds (BAAM) Academic Center in Easton. Registration is free and open to the public, though space is limited to 80 participants.
This one-day event is presented by Building African American Minds (BAAM) in partnership with the Rural Maryland Council and the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism. The conference is a part of BAAM’s ongoing workforce development initiative.
Participants will benefit from expert-led sessions by Will Holmes Consulting, a renowned Baltimore-based business advisory firm. The agenda will feature practical strategies and insights on key topics including Artificial Intelligence (AI) in business, effective marketing strategies, legal essentials for small businesses, and human resources management.
“This conference is reflective of our ongoing partnership with the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism,” says Dr. James Bell, director of instruction, academic support, and community well-being at BAAM. “We are especially thankful to the Rural Maryland Council for providing financial support that allows us to bring in experts to share strategies with business owners that will help their business thrive even in times of uncertainty.”
Cassandra Vanhooser, director of economic development and tourism, says helping businesses build strong foundations is good business.
“Our goal is to equip entrepreneurs with tools to build resilient businesses that grow and thrive,” Vanhooser says. “What’s good for businesses is good for Talbot County.”
For more information, call (443) 496-3034 or email Dr. James Bell at [email protected]. To register, visit whcusa.com/solid.

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Connect and Serve Program Addresses Workforce Development, Civic Service

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Learn how Maryland Corps/Serve Year Option Members are making significant impacts in Maryland communities and find out how you or your organization can be part of this powerful movement by attending a Connect and Serve presentation.
The informational meeting will take place in the main meeting room of the Talbot County Free Library’s Easton branch on Wednesday, March 26, from noon to 1 p.m. The free event includes lunch, with limited seating, and pre-registration required.
Program attendees will come away with a better understanding of the benefits of becoming a Maryland Corps/Service Year Option Member, including paid service roles, professional development, access to apprenticeships, a Service Success Coach, mentorships, and a $6,000 completion award.
Hosted by the Talbot Family Network and the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism, the presentation will provide insights to potential host site partners and those who engage with potential Maryland Corps/Service Year Option applicants.
“This program is especially important for nonprofits, government agencies, community-based organizations, and businesses interested in serving as a host site partner with the program,” says Nancy Andrew, executive director of Talbot Family Network.
“The March 26 program is also important for organizations that interact with young adults,” she says. “Representatives from educational institutions, workforce development programs, and other community-based organizations are encouraged to attend.”
Representatives from the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation will share key insights into program requirements, application details, exclusive benefits, and more. The department also works to expand legacy service programs through AmeriCorps, with more information at serve.maryland.gov.
“Supporting workforce development is a big part of how Talbot County works,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. “The Maryland Corps and Service Year Option offer great resources for organizations that want to grow their teams while also providing on-the-job training for new employees. It’s a win for everyone involved.”
Pre-registration is needed for the Wednesday, March 26 program at bit.ly/connectserve or by emailing director@talbotfamilynetwork.org.
 
About Talbot Family Network
The Talbot Family Network’s mission is to identify and develop support systems for a safe, healthy, caring, and equitable community for all Talbot County children and families through collaboration with public and private entities. Talbot Family Network is the Local Management Board for Talbot County and receives an annual allocation of funding from Maryland’s Children’s Cabinet. More is at www.talbotfamilynetwork.org.
About Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism
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 subscribe to the Talbot Works monthly newsletter at www.talbotworks.org. The department can be also reached at 410-770-8058 or by visiting their offices at 215 Bay Street, Easton, Md.

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Oxford Bellevue Ferry welcomes new Owner

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When it opens for its 343rd season in early April, the Oxford Bellevue Ferry will have a new captain at the helm.
Jim Andrews, who holds a 1,600-ton captain’s license and is owner of the Galveston-based  company JettyLight, has purchased the ferry business from Captains Judy and Tom Bixler, who have been the keepers of the ferry for the past 23 years. The search for the ideal successor has taken more than two years.
“We knew it would not be easy to find the right person for this business,” says Captain Tom. “It takes a special person to own and operate a ferry with a legacy this strong. We’re confident that Jim, who is a professional mariner and successful entrepreneur, has the personality and commitment to shepherd the ferry business into the future.”
America’s oldest privately-owned ferry route has been a vital link across the Tred Avon River since its establishment in 1683. As its name implies, the ferry provides transportation service for vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles and passengers connecting the incorporated town of Oxford and the historic working community of Bellevue.
The Talbot offers a scenic and efficient route that enhances local tourism and provides residents and visitors alike with a unique and memorable experience. Its operation supports local businesses, contributes to the area’s charm, and serves as a tangible link to the region’s past.
“The Oxford Bellevue Ferry is much more than just a means to cross the Tred Avon ,” says Captain Judy. “It’s a cornerstone of the community’s identity, often referred to as the crown jewel of Talbot County. People tell us that the sound of the ferry’s diesel engines, as they fire up after a long winter, is the true sign that spring has arrived in Oxford.”
In their years as captains, the Bixlers have ensured the continuous operation of the ferry route and have worked to preserve its rich legacy. Now, it’s Captain Jim’s turn to protect and nurture  this community icon and sail it into the future.
Owner of JettyLight, LLC, a marine operations management consultancy based in Galveston, Texas, Captain Jim and his family will split time between Maryland and Texas. A graduate of the US Coast Guard Academy and 20-year Coast Guard career veteran, he held command positions on the Coast Guard cutters Thunder Bay and Dauntless, has an MS in oceanography from the University of Rhode Island and an MBA from Rice University.
In his new venture, Captain Jim plans to maintain the ferry’s historical integrity while exploring opportunities to enhance its services. He acknowledges the ferry’s role as a living testament to the area’s history and is committed to preserving its legacy for future generations.
“This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for both the Oxford Bellevue Ferry and JettyLight,” Captain Jim says. “We have been impressed to our core by the way Captains Judy and Tom Bixler have developed this business and maintained the Talbot.
We are honored to continue this heritage in historic Oxford,” he continues. “Our commitment to maintaining the ferry’s iconic charm will have a very familiar feel to our employees, customers, partners and stakeholders.”
The Bixlers assure fans of the ferry that they are not planning to leave the area and will be actively involved in the transition of the business to its new owner. Occasionally, you may even find one of them at the helm of the ferry. They have conveyed their excitement about passing the torch to Captain Jim, confident that his experience, passion, and innovative ideas will usher in a new era for the ferry.
The Bixlers praise the support from the Town of Oxford, Talbot County, and the Maryland State Highway Department along with the many vendors and other business partners who have worked with the ferry company.
“It would be impossible to mention everyone who has helped to make our tenure as ‘keepers of the ferry’ so special,” says Captain Judy. “We have created lasting friendships and numerous ties to this special place we call home.
We must, however, single out our predecessors, Captains David and Valerie Bittner, who offered an opportunity for us to follow in their footsteps and provided their invaluable support and friendship,” Captain Tom adds. “We also must acknowledge all of the devoted crewmembers, captains and customers who, without a doubt, made our job fun.”
As the Oxford Bellevue Ferry embarks on this new chapter, the community watches with anticipation. The transition marks a significant moment in the ferry’s long history, promising to blend tradition with innovation and ensuring that this iconic vessel remains a beloved fixture of Talbot County’s landscape.
The Oxford Bellevue Ferry will open for the season on April 5, with weekend crossings and the Blessing of the Fleet takes place on Friday evening, April 4. The ferry will begin seven day a week operation on Oxford Day, April 26.
For more information on how to join the Oxford Bellevue Ferry team, email Captain Jim Andrews at [email protected].

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Nominations accepted for Talbot County’s Community Impact awards

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The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism and the Economic Development Commission are now accepting online nominations for the 2025 Community Impact Awards.
These awards are presented each year to recognize outstanding businesses, nonprofits, community projects, and individuals who have made a significant impact in Talbot County. Winners will be announced at the annual Talbot County Business Appreciation Summit to be held this April at the Tidewater Inn in Easton.
The Summit is hosted each year by the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism in partnership with the Talbot County Economic Development Commission.
“Your nominations shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and businesses driving Talbot County’s economy,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. “This is an opportunity to celebrate the people and enterprises that make our community thrive, and we are proud to honor their achievements through this event and the nomination process.”
Last year’s winners included the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Welcome Center, Willow Construction, Tilghman Island Seafood, The Oxford Mews project, and Easton Utilities President and CEO Hugh Grunden.
“Successful businesses are the power source that fires the twin engines of prosperity and philanthropy,” says Vanhooser. “It’s important to pause and recognize the businesses and individuals who are significantly impacting the community.”
Nominations for the 2025 awards are being accepted until Friday, January 17, 2025, with the online nomination form at www.talbotworks.org.
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.

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Business Academy offers free training for Talbot County’s small and minority-owned businesses

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The Talbot Works Business Academy’s inaugural graduates gather on the courthouse lawn to celebrate their graduation, with program facilitator Will Holmes taking a selfie. The third cohort of the Talbot Works Business Academy begins February 4, with limited participation for Talbot County small and minority business owners. Online applications are at www.talbotworks.org and are due by December 31.

The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism will launch its third cohort of the Talbot Works Business Academy this winter, with the free program limited to 15 participants and online applications due by December 31, 2024. The 8-week online entrepreneurial training program helps Talbot County’s small and minority businesses succeed and grow.
The Talbot Works Business Academy launched in early 2024 through a partnership with the Mid-Shore Regional Council. Cohorts 1 and 2 were funded by the Rural Maryland Economic Development Fund through a grant from the Maryland Department of Commerce to the Mid-Shore Regional Council. The Rural Maryland Council-administered Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund is funding Cohort 3.
“The Business Academy emphasizes our commitment to the development of small businesses in our community,” said Talbot County Councilwoman Keasha Haythe. “This is also an investment by the Talbot County Council, the Mid-Shore Regional Council, and the State of Maryland that will help stimulate economic growth and stability for the future.”
The 8-week program begins on Tuesday, February 4, and meets via Zoom each Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. with graduation scheduled for Tuesday, March 25. Small business owners who have operated for at least two years and have a revenue of less than $1.5 million are eligible to apply.
“The Talbot Works Business Academy focuses on timeless business principles,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism. “Participants learn how to increase revenue and sales, manage their expenses, hire more people, create a sustainable business model, and prepare to access capital.”
The program was developed by business management and technology consulting firm Will Holmes Consulting, a Baltimore-based company that offers business capital, coaching, and operational solutions to emerging companies. It has been implemented successfully at Johns Hopkins University, Morgan State University, and the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as Anne Arundel and Charles counties. Caroline and Dorchester also will offer the program in 2025.
Session topics include building sustainable organizational infrastructure; leading people and planning for growth; marketing and selling B2G, B2B, and B2C; accounting, human resources, legal, taxes, and insurance; and preparing for capital and essential financial documentation.
To qualify for the program, participants must own a business in Talbot County and have the ability to scale their operations, hire people, and have a positive impact on their community. Applicants who are selected for this cohort will be invited to a short interview via Zoom.
“I’ve spent tens of thousands of dollars on business courses, all of which told me what I had to do to run my business their way,” remarked Kiersten Mueller, owner of Another Level Fitness during her graduation ceremony as part of the second Academy cohort. “Never once did they say, ‘Here are the tools to run it the way you want to do it,’ and you have done that. That’s a beautiful thing. Thank you.”
To graduate from the program, participants must attend and participate in class; submit weekly homework assignments; meet with senior advisors in law, accounting, human resources, and marketing; present cash flow projections; and give a final 15-minute PowerPoint presentation.
Vanhooser says graduates can expect to have a better understanding of their financial reports, a budget for their growth, and a plan to pursue opportunities to attract new clients and access capital from lenders and investors. “The Talbot County economy is built on the success of our small businesses,” Vanhooser says. “We are looking for those business owners who are primed for growth and have a sincere desire to succeed.”
Applications by business owners can be made online at www.talbotworks.org.
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.

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Money Maryland Announces Panelists, Resource Partners for Sept. 14 Expo

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This Saturday’s Money Maryland event in Easton brings together expert panelists and resource partners to help small businesses prosper and grow. The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the BAAM Athletic Center at 31 Jowite Street. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., with advanced registration suggested at moneymaryland.com.
The Money Maryland program connects participants to important local and state resources. The event includes free learning sessions, interactive panel discussions, and connections to free business resources, workforce training, loans, grants, and support for small businesses.
Attendees will learn more about marketing and branding for small businesses; profitably pricing products, services, and contracts; and funding options for startups and growing companies.
Panelists include Meshelle Howard, director of small business programs for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA); Dawn Foster, CEO of D. Foster Marketing; Myah Koepfer and Mackenzy Perkins, account managers at iFrog Marketing Solutions; Dr. Rhonda Farrell, CEO of Global Innovation Strategies; Amy Keller, owner of Aging at Home Solution; Jed Anthony, commercial relationships manager at Shore United Bank; Nick Rudolph, Baltimore regional director for Maryland Capital Enterprises, Inc.; Richard Ojuri, vice president business banking at M&T Bank; and Eric Stewart, vice president of sales at EMS Commercial.
The Money Maryland event also includes opportunities for face-to-face connections with Chesapeake College’s business and industry navigator, and representatives from the Comptroller of Maryland, Eastern Shore Entrepreneurship, Maryland Capital Enterprises, Maryland Department of Commerce, Maryland Health Connection, Maryland Small Business Development Center, PNC Bank, Shore United Bank, Talbot County Free Library, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Small Business Administration’s rural development office.
“Talbot County’s small business leaders will not want to miss this program,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. “Attendees can network while gaining a deeper understanding of Maryland’s small business resources, including funding and grant opportunities.”
Free parking and refreshments will be available for Money Maryland attendees. Lunch also will be provided.
The Money Maryland (TM) series was developed by Will Holmes Consulting (WHC) and is produced in partnership with the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
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.

Money Maryland Comes to Talbot County Sept. 14

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The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism is presenting a Money Maryland Expo in partnership with Will Holmes of Will Holmes Consulting (WHC), shown here, on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the BAAM Athletic Center in Easton, Md. Participation is limited, with advanced registration required at www.moneymaryland.com.

Join Talbot County small business leaders for the free Money Maryland Expo on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the BAAM Athletic Center at 31 Jowite Street in Easton, Maryland. Participation is limited, with advanced registration required at www.moneymaryland.com.

The Money Maryland program connects Maryland residents to important local and state resources. The event includes free learning sessions, interactive panel discussions, and connections to free business resources, workforce training, loans, grants, and support for small businesses.

“We’re excited to be able to offer this free program in Talbot County,” said Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. “Small business owners will come away with a better understanding of financing opportunities and will gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate the small business resources Maryland has to offer, including funding and grant opportunities.”

Featured topics include marketing and branding for small businesses; business basics for entrepreneurs; profitably pricing products, services, and contracts; and funding options for startups and growing companies. The event will also feature a business resource fair and networking opportunities.

Free parking and refreshments will be available for Money Maryland attendees. Lunch also will be provided.

The Money Maryland (TM) series was developed by Will Holmes Consulting (WHC) and is produced in partnership with the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

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.

Step Back in Time at May 24 Talbot Resolves Celebration

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The 250th anniversary of the Talbot Resolves—shown represented here at the Talbot County Courthouse with this Talbot Historical Society marker—will be celebrated at the Talbot County Courthouse on Friday, May 24 beginning at noon. The free rain or shine event kicks off at noon, with a brief program and light refreshments served. Photo courtesy Talbot County Government.

The sounds of an old-fashioned Town Crier will resonate at the Talbot County Courthouse on Friday, May 24 as the community takes a step back in time to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Talbot Resolves. The free public event kicks off at noon, rain or shine, with light refreshments served.

The program is sponsored by the Talbot Historical Society, the Talbot County Government and Department of Economic Development and Tourism, and the Colonel Tench Tilghman Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR).

“Talbot County acted boldly in declaring our rights, a course of action that later led to American Independence,” said Talbot County Council Vice President Pete Lesher. “We’re grateful to be able to celebrate this 250th anniversary of the Talbot Resolves and to share its messages that still resonate today with the public in a meaningful way.”

The Talbot Resolves was a proclamation made in front of the Talbot Courthouse on May 24, 1774, by several citizens. The patriots declared they would act “as friends to liberty, and the general interests of mankind” in support of their brethren in Boston, Massachusetts. Great Britain was preparing to shut down the Port of Boston in response to the Boston Tea Party that had occurred the year before on December 16, 1773.

For the commemoration, Richard Culotta will be dressed as the Town Crier while copies of the Talbot Resolves are distributed by a Talbot County Historical Society member also dressed in colonial attire.

Lesher, a direct descendant of Col. Tench Tilghman, will provide an overview of this important historical event. SAR member Wes Hagood will talk about the actions taken by Matthew Tilghman, who was Col. Tench Tilghman’s uncle.

For more information, contact the Talbot Historical Society at 410-822-0773.

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Talbot County Announces Business Academy Graduates

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Talbot Works Business Academy participants were presented graduation certificates from the Talbot County Council on Tuesday, April 9, at their regular meeting. The cohort of business owners recently completed an 8-week entrepreneurship course that was sponsored by the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism. A second cohort will begin in the fall starting on Tuesday, September 10, with up to 15 candidates chosen, and more at www.talbotworks.org.

The Talbot County Council awarded graduation certificates to 15 participants in the inaugural Talbot Works Business Academy on Tuesday, April 9, at their regular meeting. The cohort of business owners recently completed an 8-week entrepreneurship course that was sponsored by the Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

The program was made possible by a grant from the Maryland Rural Economic Development Fund through the Mid-Shore Regional Council and developed by consulting firm WHC, a Baltimore-based consulting company that offers business capital, coaching, and operational solutions to emerging companies.

The 15-member cohort was required to meet the program’s guidelines for inclusion in the class, including having the ability to scale their operations, hire people, and have a positive impact on their community.

“These graduates now have a better understanding of their financial reports, a budget for their growth, and a plan to pursue opportunities to attract new clients and access capital from lenders and investors,” says Talbot County Councilwoman Keasha Haythe. “They serve as positive examples to other individuals seeking to grow their businesses in Talbot County and are fine examples of how our collective investments pay high dividends in the way of more jobs and empowered businesses.

“We know that this program works. It does expand businesses, and it does produce jobs,” she says. “Certainly, economic development is one of my priorities and I am happy to have been part of initiating the program. I commend my County Council colleagues for supporting this initiative. I am elated to see this program come to fruition and for the first cohort to complete this program.”

Participants were required to attend and participate in each class; submit weekly homework assignments; meet with senior advisors; meet two times each with the program’s law, accounting, and human resources mentors; present cash flow projections; and give a final 15-minute PowerPoint presentation detailing their plans for business growth.

“I am proud of the work this class of business owners put into the Talbot Works Business Academy,” says Cassandra Vanhooser, director of Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism. “This program links the latest ideas with timeless business principles to show participants how to increase revenue and sales, manage expenses, add jobs, create a sustainable business model, and prepare to access capital.”

The Academy’s inaugural graduates are Dr. James Bell Jr., Bell Education Solutions, LLC; Tamara Foote, Total Body Wellness; Kimberly Hardesty, Salon Inspire; Gregory Harris, Harris Event Security; Amy and Dave Keller, Aging at Home Solution; Andre Gibson Jr., Shore Awareness Self-Defense; Tyvon Horsey and Tina Skinner, Royal “T” Catering; Alan Lynch, Portside Grille Caterers; Michelle Moaney, Every Voice Counts Rehabilitation Services; Brandon Morgan, East Coast Poly Solutions; Anna Miller, Trade Whims; Dontele Pinder, Helen and Rae’s Kitchen for the Soul; Barbara Ranson, Oxford Vintage & Trade; Tam Vu, Helen’s Nail Salon; and Jaime Windon, Windon Distilling // Lyon Rum.

Each graduate also will receive a $2,000 grant to reinvest in their business, with the funding coming from an anonymous donor. They’ll report on their business growth over the coming years, including increased revenue and the number of jobs they’ve added.

A second cohort will begin in the fall starting on Tuesday, September 10, with up to 15 candidates chosen. Session topics include building sustainable organizational infrastructure; leading people and planning for growth; marketing and selling B2G, B2B, and B2C; accounting, human resources, legal, taxes, and insurance; and preparing for capital and essential financial documentation.

Talbot County business owners who are selected for the second cohort will be invited to a 15-minute interview via Zoom, with registration to be announced at www.talbotworks.org.

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.

Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism Recognizes 40th Anniversary of National Travel & Tourism Week

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The Talbot County Council recognized the week of May 7-13, 2023, as Travel and Tourism Week in Talbot County at its regularly scheduled meeting on May 9.

The week is also National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual event designated by the U.S. Travel Association to celebrate the contributions of the U.S. travel industry. NTTW spotlights the essential role that travel plays in driving economic growth and innovation, powering the U.S. Economy.

This year’s theme, #TravelForward, highlights the idea that travel and tourism continues to be the leader in moving the economy forward after the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

More than 662,000 people visited Talbot County in 2021 to enjoy outdoor recreation, shopping, dining and festivals such as the annual Plein Air Easton held each July.

“We join our colleagues around the country in celebrating the travel industry,” says Talbot County Director of Economic Development and Tourism Cassandra M. Vanhooser. “Hospitality is one of the top economic drivers in Talbot County and throughout the Eastern Shore. Visitor spending directly supports nearly 2,000 jobs in Talbot County alone.”

Established in 1983, NTTW is an annual tradition to mark the U.S. travel industry’s role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, stimulating business activity, and elevating the quality of life for everyday Americans.

Travel serves as a catalyst for a productive U.S. economy and helps power the success of other industries. The U.S. travel industry generated a $2.6 trillion economic output in 2022 and supported 15 million jobs, fueling communities, small businesses and working families across the country.

Visitor spending also generated nearly $160 billion in federal, state, and local taxes in 2022 — revenue that helped fund critical public services while saving each U.S. household an average of $1,270 in taxes.

The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism recognizes the power that travel has on the local economy. Tourism is one of Talbot County’s leading industry sectors, with post-pandemic numbers being at their highest point in history, with more than 662,000 visiting the county.

Talbot Tourism leaders receive proclamation from the Talbot County Council during their May 9, 2023 meeting. From left: Krista Boothby, Talbot County Tourism Manager, Council Member Keasha Haythe, Judy Bixler, Tourism Board Chair, and Cassandra Vanhooser, Director of the Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism.

According to a study by Tourism Economics, visitors spent $303 million and directly supported 1,986 jobs in Talbot County in 2021. The industry generated $64.3 million in federal, state, and local taxes.

“Travel is at the heart of Talbot County, powering our strong economy, creating jobs, and strengthening our community’s culture and identity,” Vanhooser says. “We are proud to celebrate all that travel does for our community now, and all that it will contribute in the future.”

To learn more about all that’s happening in Talbot County, visit TourTalbot.org. Follow Talbot County Tourism on Facebook @escapetotalbotcounty and Instagram @talbotcountymd for social media posts spotlighting Talbot County tourism attractions. 

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