MENU

Sections

More

June 21, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

6 Arts Notes

Bayside Quilters Installation at Talbot County Free Library

by 1 Comment

The Talbot County Free Library and Bayside Quilters of the Eastern Shore are proud to present a special installation of quilts to celebrate TCFL’s 100th Anniversary. The installation will be displayed at the Easton Branch of the Talbot County Free Library from May 29 to October 3, 2025. 

The installation features 64 beautifully designed and constructed quilts created by Bayside Quilters guild members and hung throughout the library. The quilts display a range of styles – including traditional, contemporary, modern, appliqué, hand and machine quilting and art. 

From the exuberant swirls of a modern appliqué quilt to traditional quilts honoring the Eastern Shore and the natural world – visitors are sure to be dazzled by the array of colors, patterns and themes on display.

The collaboration is a part of the library’s year-long Centennial Celebrations – a brochure with information on the Bayside Quilters and the quilts displayed will be available at the Circulation Desk for the duration of the installation. 

The Bayside Quilters of the Eastern Shore is a guild committed to the creation, study, and sharing of quilts and quilt making, and have been proudly serving the community for over 30 years. 

“Outreach is core to our mission statement … We are honored to help celebrate the Talbot County Free Library’s 100th Anniversary. The art and craft of quilting goes hand in hand with reading” reports a Guild representative. “Whether it’s learning how to quilt through How-to books, getting inspired by reading fiction or nonfiction or just taking a break. Audible books can be checked out through Hoopla. Listening to a book while stitching is another way quilters use the library services.”

Bayside Quilters meet on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 9a.m. to about noon at the Trappe Volunteer Fire Company, 4001 Powell Ave, Trappe, MD. Visitors are welcome, and everyone is invited to join. For more information visit, baysidequilters.com, or check out on Facebook at Bayside Quilters of the Eastern Shore.

For more information about the installation and the Talbot County Free Library, visit www.tcfl.org, or call (410) 822-1626. \

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

The 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival

by

The Talbot County Free Library is gearing up to celebrate the 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival (CCBF), on Saturday, June 7th, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Easton Branch on 100 W Dover Street. 

The festival is a free, one-day event that celebrates early literacy, community, and the joy of reading — rain or shine. It’s also the launch of the Talbot County Free Library’s popular Summer Reading Program. Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities for the entire family, including author readings, crafts, games, giveaways, music, and more.

Children who sign up at the Festival for Summer Reading will receive a voucher for one free book from one of the 20 visiting authors and get a free cookie (both while supplies last). This year, the special sugar cookie will showcase CCBF’s beloved blue crab mascot in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

In keeping with the festival’s fun spirit, there’s a new twist this year! Aligned with the “Color Our World!” theme of the Summer Reading Program, children attending the festival can submit their name suggestions for the CCBF blue crab. The winner will earn a special prize—and, of course, bragging rights!

“I enjoy seeing the look of wonder on the children’s faces when they peer into the meeting room, which is full of children’s authors and the books they brought to share” said Senior Youth Services Librarian, Laura Powell. “Noticing how they move from room to room, participating in the many literacy-based activities and seeing their friends from school, hearing them say: “This is such a fun party!” 

This year’s festival will feature 20 of the nation’s top children’s book authors and illustrators, including several whose work has been nationally celebrated. Among the guests will be a designer who helped bring Jim Henson’s Muppets to life, a Maryland disability advocate, and a New York Times bestselling author.

Many of these writers have earned prestigious awards for their work, and all were carefully chosen in a thorough selection process. As always, they’re excited to meet and interact with their young fans. Throughout the day of the festival, authors and illustrators will be available to discuss their books, and several of the authors will be giving readings.

This year’s festival will also include an appearance from the beloved Opera Bears, Maryland Opera’s talent trio of performers and their bear puppets who dazzle children with spectacular singing and storytelling. The trio will perform at 12:00 p.m. in the Children’s Area. 

Funding for the festival has been provided in part by grants from the Friends of the Talbot County Free Library, Easton Utilities, Maryland Opera, the Talbot County Government, and Talbot Arts (with revenues provided by the Maryland State Arts Council). Maryland Public Television (MPT) is the media partner for the festival.

The following partner organizations will help us celebrate CCBF 10: The Friends of the Library, the Judy Center, Imagination Library, Raising a Reader, The Radcliffe Creek School, Master Gardeners, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and MPT.

For more information about the 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival, including a biography of each participating author and illustrator and a schedule of the day’s events, please visit https://chesapeakechildrensbookfestival.com/ or call 410-822-1626.

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

The 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival

by

The Talbot County Free Library is gearing up to celebrate the 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival (CCBF), on Saturday, June 7th, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the Easton Branch on 100 W Dover Street. 

The festival is a free, one-day event that celebrates early literacy, community, and the joy of reading — rain or shine. It’s also the launch of the Talbot County Free Library’s popular Summer Reading Program. Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities for the entire family, including author readings, crafts, games, giveaways, music, and more.

Children who sign up at the Festival for Summer Reading will receive a voucher for one free book from one of the 23 visiting authors and get a free cookie (both while supplies last). This year, the special sugar cookie will showcase CCBF’s beloved blue crab mascot in celebration of its 10th anniversary.

In keeping with the festival’s fun spirit, there’s a new twist this year! Aligned with the “Color Our World!” theme of the Summer Reading Program, children attending the festival can submit their name suggestions for the CCBF blue crab. The winner will earn a special prize—and, of course, bragging rights!

“I enjoy seeing the look of wonder on the children’s faces when they peer into the meeting room, which is full of children’s authors and the books they brought to share” said Senior Youth Services Librarian, Laura Powell. “Noticing how they move from room to room, participating in the many literacy-based activities and seeing their friends from school, hearing them say: “This is such a fun party!” 

This year’s festival will feature 23 of the nation’s top children’s book authors and illustrators, including several whose work has been nationally celebrated. Among the guests will be a designer who helped bring Jim Henson’s Muppets to life, a Maryland disability advocate, and a New York Times bestselling author.

Many of these writers have earned prestigious awards for their work, and all were carefully chosen in a thorough selection process. As always, they’re excited to meet and interact with their young fans. Throughout the day of the festival, authors and illustrators will be available to discuss their books, and several of the authors will be giving readings.

This year’s festival will also include an appearance from the beloved Opera Bears, Maryland Opera’s talent trio of performers and their bear puppets who dazzle children with spectacular singing and storytelling. The trio will perform at 12:00 p.m. in the Children’s Area. 

Funding for the festival has been provided in part by grants from the Friends of the Talbot County Free Library, Easton Utilities, Maryland Opera, the Talbot County Government, and Talbot Arts (with revenues provided by Maryland State Arts Council). Maryland Public Television (MPT) is the media partner for the festival.

The following partner organizations will help us celebrate CCBF 10; The Friends of the Library, the Judy Center, Imagination Library, Raising a Reader, The Radcliffe Creek School, Master Gardeners, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and MPT.

For more information about the 10th Annual Chesapeake Children’s Book Festival, including a biography of each participating author and illustrator and a schedule of the day’s events, please visit https://chesapeakechildrensbookfestival.com/ or call 410-822-1626.

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

Tech CEO to speak about AI technology for seniors at the Library

by

Sze Wong, CEO of Zerion Software, will speak at the Easton Branch of the Talbot County Free Library (TCFL) on Monday, March 17th, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. as part of the ongoing MY Tech series presented by TCFL and the Apollo’s Dream Foundation.

As uses for Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology continue to develop, many are left wondering how this technology can be applied to their own lives. Wong’s talk, AI and Everyday Life: How Artificial Intelligence is Shaping the Future for Seniors, aims to provide answers to these questions and more.  

Diving into the ways in which AI can be accessible, useful, and personalized for senior citizens, Wong will discuss how the use of AI can bridge the digital gap and empower older adults to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

“Through this partnership program, we aim to educate Seniors about the opportunities, tools and resources available through AI technologies” said Dana Newman, TCFL Director. “Seniors will begin to understand how to leverage the new technology to assist with everyday tasks.” 

Apollo’s Dream Foundation is a local non-profit organization dedicated to bridging the digital divide within Talbot County and the greater community through their popular MY Tech clinics, which are volunteer-based and free to the public. From drop-in computer help to broaching topics around AI software and usage, the foundation aims to provide a human touch to technology education. 

“It’s about enhancing human connection through and because of technology,” reports the Foundation’s website. “In a world where Artificial Intelligence can seem to make anything look and sound more perfect, we cherish the authenticity when we are touched by another human being’s life and wisdom.”

Wong is the CEO of Zerion Software and creator of the iFormBuilder mobile platform. He is an entrepreneur, inventor, educator, and author of the book Craft Your World. Wong also serves as a board member of Apollo’s Dream Foundation. 

All Talbot County Free Library programs are free and open to the public. For additional information visit www.tcfl.org, or call (410) 822-1626. 

About Talbot County Free Library

 It is the mission of the Talbot County Free Library to enrich and renew the lives of the people it serves. There are two locations: The main library in Easton is located at 100 W. Dover St.; and the temporary St. Michael branch is at 1013 S. Talbot Street, Suite 11. The Maryland Room in the Easton branch holds a voluminous collection of genealogical resources and historical documents. Services at both locations include the circulation of books, DVDs, digital devices, and free Wi-Fi, public computers, exhibits, and programs for children and adults. Many of the Talbot County Free Library’s programs are made possible by the generous support of the local community. For more information, please visit www.tcfl.org. Be sure to like the library on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @Talbotcountyfreelibrary

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

Chesapeake Film Festival and Talbot County Free Library launch new monthly film series

by

The Chesapeake Film Festival (CFF) and the Talbot County Free Library are thrilled to announce an exciting new monthly film series, celebrating the library’s 100th Anniversary and CFF’s 18th Season of Our Bay, Our World, Our Festival. This collaborative kick-off event features a captivating lineup of films showcased on select Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Talbot County Free Library’s Main Branch in Easton. Screenings will begin at 6PM for the first three screenings and at 2PM for the June Saturday date, offering perfect midweek & weekend cultural escapes with a wonderful film for younger audiences in June. All films are free and open to the public. No reservations are required.

Upcoming Film Highlights & Key Dates:  

  • March 19: Taste of Things — Celebrate Women’s History Month with this exquisite film starring Juliette Binoche, a tribute to culinary artistry and female empowerment.
  • April 30: River — In honor of Earth Day, experience this breathtaking documentary narrated by Willem Dafoe, exploring the vital role of rivers in our ecosystem and culture.
  • May 21: Conclave — Dive into the intrigue of this Oscar-nominated film starring Ralph Fiennes and Isabella Rossellini, a gripping narrative of power and secrecy.
  • June 21: Wicked — Get ready for a wild and wonderful cinematic journey with this theatrical masterpiece starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jeff Goldblum. 

“We are delighted to partner with the Talbot County Free Library to bring this diverse and dynamic film series to our community,” said Irene Magafan, President of the Chesapeake Film Festival. “It’s a celebration of storytelling, history, and the shared joy of cinema.”

Join us for these unforgettable evenings of film, community, and celebration. Mark your calendars and don’t miss this opportunity to experience world-class cinema right in Talbot County.  This programming is brought to you by our generous sponsors Maryland State Arts Council, Talbot County Free Library, Maryland Humanities Council, The Artistic Insights Fund, The William Lucks Professional Group powered by Keller Williams Realty and Laser Letters.

All screenings are at the Easton Branch of the Talbot Library and are free and open to the public. Films start at 6PM in March, April and May & 2PM in June.  

For more information, please visit www.chesapeakefilmfestival.com. Or call the library at
410-822-1626.

Chesapeake Film Festival Now OPEN FOR SUBMISSIONS on FilmFreeway

Submissions are now OPEN on FilmFreeway!! Filmmakers from around the world are invited to showcase their work and become part of the fastest-growing, prestigious film festival on the Eastern Shore.

Film Categories Include:

  • Environmental Features and Shorts
  • International Features and Documentaries
  • Narrative Features
  • Documentaries
  • Spotlight on Maryland
  • Student Shorts
  • Animations

Key Dates to Remember:

  • Regular Submission Deadline: June 1, 2025
  • Extended Submission Deadline: June 21, 2025
  • Notification Date: July 7, 2025

Festival Dates: October 10, 11, and 12, 2025 Venues: Ebenezer Theater, Academy Art Museum, and Talbot County Free Library

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your film at one of the most dynamic cultural events on the Eastern Shore. Submit your film today and be part of an inspiring celebration of cinema.

For more information and to submit your film, please visit  https://filmfreeway.com/chesapeakefilmfestival

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

Smithsonian author to talk about Julia Child’s Kitchen at the library

by

On Monday, March 3, at 6 p.m., in the Easton branch of the Talbot County Free Library, library guy Bill Peak will interview Paula Johnson about her newest book, “Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space.”       

Johnson is a distinguished curator at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.  Among her many curatorial triumphs, she and co-curator Rayna Green brought Julia Child’s kitchen to the museum in 2001.  Almost a quarter of a century later, it remains one of that institution’s most popular exhibits.  

Johnson’s new book tells the story of the home kitchen from which so many of Julia Child’s television shows originated.  We learn the tales behind the famous Garland range, the parties that occurred at the kitchen table, and the myriad pots, pans, and gadgets that Julia collected over her long culinary career.  

But the book also brings to life the people that populated that kitchen: Julia’s adoring husband Paul Child, writers like Alex Prud’homme and Nora Ephron, fellow cooks like Jacques Pépin and Martha Stewart, and, best of all, Julia herself.

In his February column in The Star Democrat, Peak wrote, “The book itself is like a party at Julia’s house.  You meet fascinating people, hear terrific stories, experience a magical place, and, at the very least, get to imagine yourself enjoying extraordinary meals.”

Finally, Johnson’s book tells the surprisingly exciting story of how the Smithsonian’s Museum of American History convinced Julia to donate the kitchen and then managed to carefully and delicately disassemble it, catalog each appliance, tool, and doo-dad, and then transfer the kit and caboodle to the museum, where it would all be reassembled once more in its own gallery.  

In addition to being an excellent curator and writer, Johnson is a renowned storyteller.  Her program at the library will be both informative and entertaining.  Copies of “Julia Child’s Kitchen: The Design, Tools, Stories, and Legacy of an Iconic Space” will be available for purchase and autographing.   

All library programs are free and open to the public.  For more information, please call the library at 410-822-1626, or visit www.tcfl.org.

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

St. Michaels Library Branch temporarily closes in preparation for renovations

by

The St. Michaels Branch of the Talbot County Free Library is currently closed, with staff including Branch Manager Shauna Beulah, left, and Library Associate Amy Wise packing books and more for the branch’s temporary relocation at the St. Michaels Village shopping center at 1013 S. Talbot Street, expected to open mid-November. The temporary closure and move are made while a $6.3 million expansion and renovation project gets underway, with new features including a large meeting room, exhibit and interactive outside spaces, quiet technology spaces, an early literacy children’s area, and ADA-compliant features.

The St. Michaels Branch of the Talbot County Free Library has temporarily closed its doors while staff pack and prepare to open a temporary space in the St. Michaels Village shopping center at 1013 S. Talbot Street this November.

The temporary closure and move are being made in preparation for a $6.3 million expansion and renovation project that includes a large meeting room, exhibit and interactive outside spaces, quiet technology spaces, an early-literacy children’s area, and ADA-compliant features.

“We are thrilled to begin this new chapter for the St. Michaels Library,” said Shauna Beulah, St. Michaels Branch Manager. “While the renovations will enhance the library for the future, it’s important to us that our patrons continue to have access to the resources they rely on. Our temporary location will allow us to do just that.”

She says the renovations will bring the community an expanded facility, modernized design, and creative new spaces for the community. During the interim, the library remains committed to serving the community’s needs beyond books, offering essential services such as free internet access, children’s programming, and community events.

“Libraries are a cornerstone of our community, providing a safe and welcoming space for people of all ages,” said Dana Newman, director of the Talbot County Free Library. “As we prepare for this exciting transformation, we are determined to continue supporting our patrons by offering access to technology, learning opportunities, and more.”

In preparation for the move, all items checked out from the St. Michaels branch before October 5 have been given a due date of December 16, 2024. Patrons are encouraged to return these items at the temporary location once it opens in November. The book drop at the St. Michaels Library will be closed during this time, though materials can also be returned to the Easton branch of the Talbot County Free Library.

For assistance during the temporary closure, patrons can call 410-822-1626 or visit the Library’s Easton location. Updates on the project and services will be available on the Talbot County Free Library’s website at www.tcfl.org.

About Talbot County Free Library

The Talbot County Free Library has been serving the community for decades, providing access to information, technology, and community programs that enrich the lives of its patrons. The St. Michaels branch is a hub of activity and a vital resource for the St. Michaels and Bay Hundred communities, with more at www.tcfl.org.

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 Social Services Offers Empower Me! Child Safety Presentations

by

The Talbot County Department of Social Services is partnering with Talbot County Free Library on September 30 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. to offer the Empower Me! Child Safety Presentations. Pictured left to right are Debbe Fairbank, Paris Quillet, and Leah Borkowski, Empower Me trainers.

The Talbot County Department of Social Services is partnering with the Talbot County Free Library to offer free Empower Me! Child Safety presentations on September 30 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the library in Easton. Empower Me! teaches children, ages three through 12, and adults about personal safety. There will be two simultaneous presentations – one for children ages three to 12 and one for adults. Dinner will be provided free of charge from 5:30 to 6 p.m., followed by the presentations between 6 and 7 p.m.

The program is in response to Erin’s Law which has been passed in 35 states mandating child sexual abuse prevention. Talbot County Child Protective Services receives approximately 400 reports alleging child physical abuse, sexual abuse or neglect annually. Most occurrences of sexual abuse are perpetrated by a family member or close family friend.

“This program can help reduce sexual abuse for our youngest and most vulnerable students. Children learn safety rules and how to develop a safety net of trusted adults,” Paris Quillet, Special Project Coordinator for the Talbot County Department of Social Services, explains.

Among the standards addressed through the program’s lessons are identifying how familiar people or people in authority can help or harm children; demonstrating refusal skills and other ways to take action if someone is making you feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespected; and explaining the importance of sharing all information with parents/guardians/trusted adults.

For further information about the Empower Me program, contact Paris Quillet at 410-770-5870 or email [email protected].

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

St. Michaels Branch final Lunch & Learn features Eastern Shore Native

by

Matt LaMotte, from Kent County, will be the guest speaker for the final Lunch & Learn at the St. Michaels Branch of the Talbot County Free Library on Monday, August 5, 2024, at noon.

LaMotte will share his love for Eastern Shore history with his talk about The Shore’s Role in the War of 1812. The Eastern Shore of Maryland played a significant role in the War of 1812, contributing both manpower and resources to the American efforts against British forces. 

Situated along the Chesapeake Bay, this region was strategically important due to its proximity to key waterways and its agricultural output. He will highlight key events, notable figures, and the impact of the conflict on the region.

LaMotte spent his youth between Baltimore, Chestertown, and Easton. After college, he delved in the world of insurance and finance, raising his two sons while honing his passion for history and lacrosse. He spent two decades teaching and coaching at independent schools across Virginia, New Hampshire and Ohio. 

In 2018, he headed the History Department at Saints Peter and Paul High School, Easton, until retirement in 2021. A reformed duck hunter, now bird enthusiast and conservationist, LaMotte is currently engaged in various outdoor education and community services organizations.

Friends of the Talbot County Free Library sponsor the Lunch & Learn Speakers Program at the St. Michaels Branch. The program is free but for this final Lunch & Learn, the Friends are raising funds to provide books and materials for the new St. Michaels library once the renovations and expansion are complete. Donations are greatly appreciated. 

About Talbot County Free Library

It is the mission of the Talbot County Free Library to enrich and renew the lives of the people it serves. There are two locations: The main library in Easton is located at 100 W. Dover St.; and the St. Michael branch is at 106 Fremont St. The Maryland Room in the Easton branch holds a voluminous collection of genealogical resources and historical documents. Services at both locations include the circulation of books, DVDs, and digital devices, as well as free Wi-Fi, public computers, exhibits, and programs for both children and adults. Many of the Talbot County Free Library’s programs are made possible by the generous support of the local community.  For more information, please visit www.tcfl.org. Be sure to like the library on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @Talbotcountyfreelibrary.

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

St. Michaels Library Presents Fremont Street -St. Michaels Exhibit

by

St. Michaels Library has announced that The Fremont Street-St. Michaels Exhibit will officially open on Thursday, July 18 at noon. 

Fremont Street was the center of St. Michaels’ African-American Community from the 1850s well into the 20th century.  Located there was the first Union United Methodist Sunday School in 1852, the first African American School, and the first Odd Fellows lodge.  It was a commercial center for African American businesses as well as a residential center.

 Kate Fones, St. Michaels Museum curator, will give a presentation about the community from its first days when Samuel Alexander Harrison created a new street and lots to the west of Talbot Street out of his Canton Farm in the late 1840s.   

“We are fortunate and excited to exhibit a detailed model of the wide range of buildings located on the west side of Fremont Street created by local resident Leonard Palmer,” said Fones. “Many of these buildings are no longer there but thanks to Palmer, we can visualize what the street looked like in the latter years of the 19th century and the 1950s.  This model has never been exhibited publicly before. We invite and welcome all those to come and share your memories of Fremont Street and any photographs you may have of the Street.”

Refreshments will be served during the official opening.

About Talbot County Free Library

It is the mission of the Talbot County Free Library to enrich and renew the lives of the people it serves. There are two locations: The main library in Easton is located at 100 W. Dover St., and the St. Michael branch is at 106 Fremont St. The Maryland Room in the Easton branch holds a voluminous collection of genealogical resources and historical documents. Services at both locations include the circulation of books, DVDs, and digital devices, as well as free Wi-Fi, public computers, exhibits, and programs for both children and adults. Many of the Talbot County Free Library’s programs are made possible by the generous support of the local community.  For more information, please visit www.tcfl.org. Be sure to like the library on Facebook and follow us on Instagram @Talbotcountyfreelibrary.

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