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May 30, 2025

Talbot Spy

Nonpartisan Education-based News for Talbot County Community

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Talbot County Named a “Sanctuary Jurisdiction” by Trump Administration

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Talbot County has unexpectedly been named one of several Maryland jurisdictions designated as a “sanctuary” by the Trump administration—a move that could put federal funding at risk and place the county in the middle of a national immigration debate.

The announcement came Thursday as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to pressure local governments into supporting federal immigration enforcement. The list includes Baltimore County, Montgomery County, Queen Anne’s County, and the cities of Annapolis, Rockville, and Takoma Park, among others.

The designation follows an executive order directing Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to identify localities that, in the administration’s view, do not fully cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The purpose is to cut off federal funds to jurisdictions that limit their involvement in immigration enforcement.

Talbot County’s inclusion raises questions. The county has not adopted any formal policy that restricts cooperation with ICE, and immigration issues have rarely been a topic of discussion in local government or public debate. Still, the Trump administration appears to be interpreting “non-cooperation” broadly, and Talbot was swept in.

The designation carries potential consequences. Talbot, like many rural counties, relies on federal grants for programs ranging from public safety and infrastructure to housing and health services. Even the threat of losing those funds could complicate budget planning and long-term community investments.

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

County Council Highlights: FY2026 Budget Approved

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The Talbot County Council has approved the Fiscal Year 2026 budget this week, totaling approximately $161 million, with a focus on education and public safety.

A significant portion of the budget—43%—is allocated to Talbot County Public Schools, including a $55.1 million appropriation and an additional $260,500 for capital projects.

Councilman Pete Lesher introduced an amendment aimed at reducing capital outlays by over $1 million, reallocating funds to support teacher salaries and critical educational positions. Despite his advocacy, the amendment failed by a 2-3 vote (yes: Lesher and Haythe, no: Callahan, Mielke, Stepp), reflecting differing opinions on budget priorities within the council.

The approved budget, with a second amendment proposed by President Callahan, includes a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment and a performance-based step increase for county employees, while maintaining current staffing levels.

Investments in public safety also remained a priority, with 24% of the operating budget dedicated to this sector. The budget also incorporates a one-cent property tax increase dedicated to public safety, as authorized by Talbot County voters in 2020 and 2024.

Here are some key highlights from the Council’s discussion on the budget.

This video is approximately five minutes in length.

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

Remembering the Claiborne Ferry at 102 years old: A Chat with Londonderry’s Margaret Bryan

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In this remarkable Spy interview, Londonderry resident Margaret Bryan, 102 years old, of Claiborne, Maryland, shares vivid memories from a century of life on the Eastern Shore. Born in 1923 and having just celebrated her 102nd birthday, Ms. Bryan recalls a time before the Bay Bridge, when ferries and steamboats connected communities, and Claiborne was a vital transportation hub. Her father managed the ferry line that once carried passengers and vehicles across the Chesapeake Bay, a lifeline between the shore and Annapolis. Raised in a one-room schoolhouse and later bused to St. Michaels, she offers a rare, firsthand perspective on rural life, early education, and community values in a bygone era.

With great warmth and clarity, Ms. Bryan reflects on the astonishing changes she’s witnessed—from radios to televisions, from steamboats to airplanes, and from typewriters to computers. Her stories include colorful anecdotes about wooden-sided school buses, floating theaters, and even an operator-assisted long-distance call that feels like an early version of today’s smart tech.

This video is approximately nine minutes in length. For information about Londonderry on the Tred Avon, please go here.

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

Easton Council Highlights: A Changing of the Guard

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At last night’s Easton Town Council meeting, a significant transition in leadership took place as newly elected Council President Don Abbatiello, Ward 4 Councilmember Rev. Elmer Davis Jr., and Ward 2 Councilmember Robert Rankin were officially sworn into office. Outgoing President Frank Gunsallus offered gracious remarks reflecting on his tenure, followed by Mayor Megan Cook, who extended her congratulations to the incoming council leadership. The meeting concluded with comments from councilmembers and closing remarks by President Abbatiello.

This video is approximately 13 minutes in length.

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

This Summer at the Avalon: Something Old, Something New for Mid-Shore Kids

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The Avalon Foundation is excited to announce a dynamic mix of tradition and innovation in its 2025 Summer Programming. As always, you can count on the classic experiences families know and love—but this year, they are expanding with even more to explore.

The Spy asked program director Christina King and teacher Rene Masaracchia, the delightful Mrs M, to come by the Spy studio last week to give some background and updates on this remarkable program for young children.

From returning favorites to fresh new opportunities, this summer’s lineup offers more depth, variety, and ways for kids to get involved, be inspired, and make lasting memories.

As they note, and due to popular demand, as determined from their waitlists of years past, they are expanding this year’s offerings to 3 sessions of Curtain Call Junior! Your young person can be enrolled for all three weeks since each week will offer a different script and show.

In addition, Short Week Big Show is back for the 4th of July week, minus Friday, July 4th, for campers entering grades 2-8!

The Avalon was also excited to announce Passport Around the World & Mini Monets sessions of our new Early Childhood Arts Exploration Program! Aimed to serve our youngest campers, those entering grades K-2, this week starts with a beloved children’s book, and it incorporates literacy, routine, and experiences in visual and performing arts, along with some of our traditional games and activities.  The campers then present a Friday performance to showcase the week. Your young person will have fun, be immersed in the arts, and combat summer slide while at the Avalon Theatre.

Taking part in theatrical productions at all ages has true literacy benefits. The new Early Childhood Arts Exploration Programs are designed and led by the fabulous early childhood educator, Renee Masarachia. She has over 20 years of experience enriching the education and lives of all she touches. Affectionately known as “Ms. M”, she will make every week sparkle for your young artists while incorporating her knowledge and expertise in the early childhood sector.

This video is approximately five minutes in length. For information and to sign up, please go here.

 

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

Honoring 95 Years of Service: The Women’s Club of Talbot County

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In a recent conversation, Lisa Birou, Natalie Stamerro (current President), and Gail Newell (incoming President) reflected on the rich legacy and continued purpose of the Talbot County Women’s Club. Founded in 1930 at the height of the Great Depression, the club began with a small group of women in Easton sewing garments for local children in need. It quickly grew, enrolling nearly 200 women and establishing a mission rooted in service, community, and friendship.

The Club’s historic house—originally built in the late 18th century with bricks matching those of Easton’s courthouse—has been a gathering place since 1947. Today, the Club remains a vital nonprofit organization, fostering civic engagement and supporting other local causes. For many women, especially newcomers, it offers a meaningful way to connect, give back, and build lasting relationships.

As the Club approaches its 95th anniversary, its leaders hope to grow membership and restore the house to its former beauty, inviting the community to join in celebrating this enduring institution at an open house on Sunday, May 18, from 2 to 5 p.m.

This video is approximately five minutes in length. For more information about the Talbot County Women’s Club please go here.

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

Let’s Talk About It with Beth Anne Dorman: Mental Health, Parents and Adolescence

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This month, Beth Anne Dorman, CEO of For All Seasons, explores the profound challenges parents face as their children enter adolescence. While parenting is never easy, the teenage years often present the most demanding and emotionally charged phase, particularly when mental health concerns emerge unexpectedly. In this two-part series, Beth Anne offers thoughtful insight into how parents can support their children through this turbulent stage of development. In part two, she reflects on the recent Netflix drama Adolescence, which portrays a family grappling with the unthinkable trauma of a child in crisis.

This video is approximately eight minutes in length. For more information about For All Seasons please go here. To read more about Adolescence on Netflix please go here. 

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

It’s All Happening at the Talbot County Senior Fair May 21

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The Talbot County Commission on Aging recently announced the return of its highly successful Senior Resource Fair! After an incredible turnout and overwhelmingly positive feedback in 2024, the Commission will host the 2025 Senior Resource Fair on May 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Easton Volunteer Fire Department. As always, admission and parking are free, ensuring this community-focused event is accessible to all.

Commission members Grace Lyons and Megan Murray stopped by the Spy studio last week to talk about the event and getting the word out to local elders to take advantage of the unique opportunity to meet with so many service providers.

This video is approximately two minutes in length. For more information, please go here.

 

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

Growing a Special Tree at BAAM: A Check in with Director Dina Daly and Dr. James Bell

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In the Spy’s regular check-in with BAAM—Building African American Minds—we sit down again with co-founder and director Dina Daly and director of instruction Dr. James Bell to discuss the latest developments in one of Mid-Shore’s most transformative education and afterschool programs.

From the long-anticipated opening of BAAM’s new facility to the expansion of its summer enrichment offerings and an inspiring investment in its girls’ program, Daly and Bell reflect on the vision, the momentum, and the deep community partnerships that continue to drive BAAM forward. They also share stories behind the building’s symbolic tree mural and announce a community summit to help shape the future of girls’ programming at BAAM.

This ongoing series highlights the people and programs shaping opportunity for the next generation.

This video is approximately six minutes long. For more information or to make a donation to BAAM, please go here.

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

Spy Profile: A Chat with St. Michaels Community Center Director Amy Horne

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Amy Horne, the newly appointed Executive Director of the St. Michaels Community Center, brings deep personal and professional ties to Talbot County. A native of the area, Horne says she feels grateful to be “back home” and inspired by the chance to lead an organization with such an expansive mission. In a recent interview with The Spy, she described how the Center offers programming for children, adults, and seniors, including a weekly senior lunch and an active adult speaker series.

She highlighted the Center’s robust food distribution program as one of its most essential services. “We’re the only non-age-specific facility in Talbot County that offers all three food programs: hot congregate meals, delivered meals, and a pantry,” she said. With growing food insecurity even in one of the wealthiest counties in the country, Horne said she’s working to expand pantry hours and explore long-term funding solutions.

Looking ahead, Horne envisions workforce development initiatives and more youth programming, including a middle school dance this June. She’s also planning a strategic needs assessment for the Bay Hundred area. “A community center doesn’t tell people what they need—we ask,” she said. The Center celebrates its 35th anniversary this August.

This video is approximately five minutes in length. For more information about the St. Michaels Community Center and make a donation please go here.

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