Easton Utilities is proud to announce their newest commissioner Cheryl Palumbo who was sworn-in by Mayor Megan Cook at the Town Council meeting today. 

“Cheryl’s expertise and background will help us improve our financial flexibility as we continue to deliver on our promise to provide safe, reliable, and affordable utility and broadband services,” stated John J. Horner, President and CEO of Easton Utilities.

Palumbo is a Senior Vice President and Financial Advisor with Baird specializing in financial planning, risk management and asset allocation. She is proficient in providing in-depth financial analysis to help clients with wealth management and financial planning to achieve their goals. Palumbo received her bachelor’s in business administration from Texas Tech University. 

“I am honored to serve Easton Utilities in this role, and I look forward to prioritizing the importance of  affordability for our customers,” said Palumbo. “I am eager to learn about all aspects of the essential services Easton Utilities provides including the complexities of their critical infrastructure and the growing demands for renewable energy sources.”

Palumbo is active in the community and currently serves on the Saints Peter and Paul Finance Council. She has also served as Treasurer and Member of the Soroptimist International of Talbot County and the Treasurer and member of the Saints Peter and Paul Parent Association. Palumbo has lived in Easton with her husband Wes and two daughters for more than 25 years.

Collectively, the commissioners are charged with governance responsibilities for the organization. Palumbo replaces Lee Gordon who previously served as a commissioner. “We are grateful for Lee’s service and support during her time on the commission,” added Horner. 

Easton Utilities is a community-owned, not-for-profit utility and telecommunications company operating the Electric, Natural Gas, Water, Wastewater, Cable Television, and Internet services for the Town of Easton and portions of the surrounding area. Please visit www.eastonutilities.com or call 410-822-6110 to learn more.

L to R: Darian Sump, Anna Fichtner, Mark Dickinson

Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, a cornerstone of quality, financially accessible childcare in our community is thrilled to announce the addition of three amazing new members to its Board of Directors.  Each of them brings unique experience and a strong dedication to our educational mission.  Join us in welcoming Mark, Anna and Darian to the Critchlow Adkins family. 

Meet the New Board Members:

Mark Dickinson
Originally from Washington County and now residing in Trappe, Mark Dickinson brings a wealth of nonprofit experience to the Board. With a B.S. in Commerce from Washington and Lee University and a law degree from the University of Maryland, Mark has previously served on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washington County, San Mar Children’s Home, and Preservation Maryland. His real estate and legal expertise, as well as experience in grounds and maintenance will be invaluable to Critchlow Adkins. 

Anna Fichtner

Anna Fichtner has served on the Critchlow Adkins Board of Directors before, and the organization is thrilled that she is returning to serve another term.  Originally from Kansas, Anna and her husband Chip were drawn to the water and small-town atmosphere of Easton and moved to the area to raise their kids.  While the children are now grown, the Fichtners remained to the benefit of the local community!  Anna has served on the boards of many local nonprofits, including the Academy Art Museum, the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, the Talbot County Historical Society, the Women & Girls Fund of the Mid-Shore, and the Country School.  Anna’s background in education and leadership experience make her a natural fit for Critchlow Adkins.  She currently serves on the Development and Governance Committees and co-chairs the Events Subcommittee.

Darian Sump
Darian Sump owns the highly respected local accounting firm Sump & Associates.  He earned his B.S. in accounting from Salisbury University. As an experienced community leader, he has served on the boards of Londonderry on the Tred Avon, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, and CASA of the Mid Shore.  Darian has a special connection with Critchlow Adkins, as his children attend the organization’s Cordova Site, located within Chapel District Elementary School.   Sump & Associates is also a proud Critchlow Adkins Silver Star Business Partner.

Critchlow Adkins Board President, Julie Crocker shared her excitement, “These individuals, along with all of our Board members, bring a unique variety of invaluable experiences that are crucial in shaping the future of our organization. We are honored to have them as Critchlow Adkins champions as we begin building our expanded childcare center at our Cordova site to better serve the needs in this rural area. I look forward to working closely with them as we Build Brighter Futures for children and families in our community.”

Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers is a nonprofit childcare program that serves families across the Mid-Shore with year-round preschool, Pre-K through 5th grade before—and after-school care, and summer camp programs. Our mission is to support families and foster a love of learning in children through innovative educational and literacy programs that promote critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.   

Thanks to the financial support of individuals, businesses, and foundations on the Mid-Shore, Critchlow Adkins offers tuition assistance to qualifying families. To learn more about Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, enroll your child, or make a donation, please visit www.cacckids.org or call 410-822-8061.

“This was one of the hardest decisions I have had to make over the last four years but I know deep down it is time for us to grow and move forward.” That was part of the surprising message 20-year-old Victoria “Tori” Swann posted for her thousands of social media followers on July 29. She was announcing that Free Spirit Threads, her clothing store on Poplar Street in Downtown Cambridge, would be closing on August 25. The business will go online-only in September.

She tried to sound upbeat and optimistic about the future, stating that she is “excited to grow beyond Cambridge.” And she will be concentrating on changes in her personal life over the next year. But there are also other reasons for the closing of the business she started as a 16-year-old high-school senior, and they’re not all positive.

Swann began selling high-quality thrifted clothes online when she was 14. She was successful at it but decided she wanted to get into the new-clothing line. Her inspiration to open her own store was the perceived lack of local shopping options for teenagers. Using her savings, an inheritance from her late father, and money that would have paid for college, she opened her “modern boutique with vintage charm,” Free Spirit Threads, on October 17, 2020. Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting on the 20th.

“The ribbon cutting, that was amazing,” said Swann. “That was great to meet a bunch of people.” She remembered that the store was busy all that day, selling more than 200 pieces of clothing.

The young owner has always handpicked every clothing item or accessory offered, many of which are significant brands such as Free People and Sun Bum. She credits her high-quality brands for the clientele she’s attracted from Talbot County. Free Spirit Threads has won area awards for Best Women’s Clothing Store.

Part of Swann’s success can be attributed to her marketing savvy, including her online ads featuring young women modeling the clothes. She called on her friends from school and dancing for help but also conducted social media outreach to bring in more models from places like Easton and St. Michael’s. Additionally she organized and participated in local events such as the Holiday Market that was cosponsored by Blue Ruin.

“We had several people, vendors last year at our event and the year before, and multiple of them made so much money,” said Swann.

In fact, 2023 was the best year of business for Free Spirit Threads. But 2024 has seen foot traffic decrease so much that sales are about half of what they were last year. Swann cites the economy, local crime, and the fact that it’s an election year for her store’s downturn. She also blames the negativity of Cambridge citizens and business owners on social media.

“I have multiple tourists that come in here and say things like, ‘Oh, I read about this on Facebook, and it’s really not as bad as it seems,’” she recalled. “But I mean, yeah, we have some issues and they could be fixed, but instead, like, everybody was worrying about arguing with each other on Facebook. So, that’s part of our issue. I really believe social media has really killed a lot of business down here.”

Swann also bemoans the lack of support from the community and the Cambridge Main Street group, which used to be very helpful. Beyond that, she has tried several times to organize community events like the Holiday Market.

“Just imagine what that would have been like if we could have gotten a street closure with vendors filling the streets,” said Swann. “But we could never do that because they just don’t want it.”

So, she is transitioning to an online-only business. It’s not that great a change, because many of her sales are online now anyway. She’ll be able to work out of the new house in Hurlock she’s moving into with her fiancé, Nathan, next month. And she won’t have to keep the racks full or pay a lot of overhead.

Will Swann every open another brick-and-mortar shop? “Maybe one day. I don’t know about here again, unless something seriously changed. We need a lot of help down here, and that’s not by building new stuff. It’s by fixing what’s already broken.”

On Thursday, August 22nd, the Town of Easton Department of Planning and Zoning will be hosting a public event to showcase an economic potency analysis of Easton development conducted by Urban3, a community financial development firm. The Event will take place at 6pm in the Town Council Chambers located on the second floor of Easton’s Town Hall, at 14 S. Harrison Street. Joe Minicozzi, founder and Principal of Urban3 will be leading the event, publicly presenting the results of their work and answering questions related to those findings.

Seating for this event will be limited. For anyone who is unable to attend, this presentation will also be live streamed and recorded at the Town of Easton website here: eastonmd.gov/129/Agendas-Minutes.

Urban3, a unique economic consulting firm, was hired by The Town of Easton Department of Planning and Zoning to conduct revenue modeling of Easton on a value per acre basis based on existing land use typologies of commercial, residential, and mixed-use development. Urban3 then models the potential revenue implications of various development scenarios based on these typologies and their densities.

Their work will result in comparing the economic productivity of varying property types within the Town of Easton, compared to Talbot County and the region, and will also include the economic potency of Easton’s downtown. Urban3’s 2D and 3D visualizations of this analysis will give the community a simple, data-driven understanding of the revenue impacts of development.

Town of Easton Planning and Zoning Director MIguel Salinas said, “This analysis will be very useful in Easton comprehensive planning efforts as it models the potential revenue capture of conceptual development scenarios to determine future optimal growth and redevelopment scenarios. The analysis can also help us to achieve targeted densities and public revenue impacts.”

Urban3’s approach to land use planning includes consideration of the impact of smarter growth and better planning on land value economics and revenue generation which can then be compared to the cost of services. You can read more about Urban3, the services they provide, and case studies of projects they have completed at www.urbanthree.com.

Formally recognized in 1710 by the Province of Maryland, Easton is the county seat of Talbot County. Encompassing over 11 square miles including almost two dozen public parks and open spaces, the town has a growing population of over 17,000 residents. For more information please visit: eastonmd.gov.

Londonderry on the Tred Avon CEO, Christine Harrington, and Director of Sales and Marketing, Rachel Smith, were named “The Faces of Retirement on the Eastern Shore by Baltimore Magazine” in its July 2024 issue.

“Londonderry continues to shine as a premiere retirement destination across the region,” said Christine Harrington, Londonderry CEO. “This is the direct result of the collaborative efforts of our residents and team to create a thriving and vibrant community. Our beautiful waterfront campus is the perfect place to enjoy our resort-style amenities and activities all while being a short drive away from the Eastern Shore’s charming small towns and landscapes. I am so proud to work with such a dedicated team that is committed to excellence and always finding ways to make life at Londonderry extraordinary.”

Harrington and Smith were recognized for their success and contributions at Londonderry and in their respective fields. From Baltimore Magazine:

“Christine Harrington, CEO, began her role at Londonderry in the fall of 2023. Harrington brings more than 15 years of expertise to the role and a wealth of knowledge, ensuring that every aspect of Londonderry reflects the highest standards of excellence. Rachel Smith, Director of Sales and Marketing, has been with Londonderry since 2013, and has extensive experience in the senior housing and marketing field. Harrington and her entire team take pride in showcasing what makes Londonderry special.”

About Londonderry on the Tred Avon

Londonderry on the Tred Avon is a vibrant, independent living cooperative community for adults ages 62+ that promotes wellness of mind and body. Londonderry offers a variety of housing options from convenient apartments to spacious cottages among 29 acres, including 1500 feet of waterfront shoreline. For more information, visit www.londonderrytredavon.com.

Maryland State House

A senior official under former Gov. Larry Hogan (R) is starting a lobbying and consulting firm.

Jeanne Haddaway-Riccio joins forces with Robert Rauch to form R & R Solutions, a lobbying and consulting firm. The new firm will be led by four principals: Haddaway-Riccio, Rauch, Ryan Snow, and Jennifer Williams.

Haddaway-Riccio is a Republican former state delegate from the Eastern Shore who served three years as deputy chief of staff to Hogan. She was later appointed secretary of the Department of Natural Resources by Hogan in 2019, a position that she held until Hogan left office in 2023.

Rauch, a civil engineer, is chair of Rauch Inc.’s board and served on the University System of Maryland Board of Regents.

Snow also held roles in the Hogan administration, including director of intergovernmental affairs. He was also a project manager for Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism. He is currently a consultant specializing in economic development and infrastructure.

Williams, a former president of the Talbot County Council, is an attorney and real estate broker.

In a statement, Haddaway-Ricco said the firm will focus on legislative advocacy, regulatory affairs, grassroots mobilization, strategic consulting and grant writing.

“Our team’s deep-rooted knowledge of local, state, and federal issues, combined with our strategic approach to advocacy, uniquely positions us to effect real change,” Haddaway-Riccio said in her statement. “We are committed to driving meaningful policy advancements for the betterment of our state and our nation.”

Chamber hires Wiggins for government affairs role

The Maryland Chamber of Commerce announced it has named Grason Wiggins as its new vice president of government affairs.

Wiggins joins the 7,000-member organization from the lobbying firm of Harris Jones & Malone, where the chamber said he worked closely with legislators and the Moore administration on policies affecting the state’s economy. Before that, he was senior manager of government affairs for the Maryland Multi-housing Association and director of legislative and regulatory affairs at the Maryland Department of Labor.

Wiggins holds a law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law.

“His understanding of Maryland’s legislative landscape makes him an ideal advocate for our members,” Chamber President and CEO Mary D. Kane said in a prepared statement. “Grason’s work will be crucial in shaping policies that strengthen our state’s economy and improve our communities.”

Wiggins replaces Andrew Griffin, who served the last five years as the chamber’s senior vice president government relations, before leaving last week to join the lobbying firm Providence Strategies.

by Bryan P. Sears, Maryland Matters
August 8, 2024

Maryland Matters is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Maryland Matters maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Steve Crane for questions: [email protected]. Follow Maryland Matters on Facebook and X.

The Cambridge Waterfront Development Incorporated (CWDI) and Matt Leonard have mutually agreed to terminate the contract for his services as the Executive Director of CWDI, effective immediately. Leonard chose to retire to Cambridge 5 years ago after falling in love with city.

In Leonard’s own words, “I answered the call to help my chosen forever home by joining the CWDI team. All of the CWDI Board Members I worked with are talented professionals dedicated to CWDI’s community-first mission. I’m proud of what we accomplished together. I wish them all the best going forward and look forward to enjoying the fruits of their efforts for a long time to come.”

“The Board thanks Matt for his tireless efforts and commitment to the organization and its mission”, said Angie Hengst, CWDI board president. “He has played a significant role in the success of the project to date. We enjoyed our time working together and we wish him well in his future endeavors.”

CWDI will continue with its active projects, including the Promenade expansion, and working with all their partners – the City, County and State, as they look to advance the Cambridge Harbor project.

In the interim, Frank Narr, Board Secretary-Treasurer, will serve as CWDI’s day-to-day contact. He can be reached at [email protected].

Join the holiday cheer downtown for the annual Easton Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 7th, at 6:30 pm. Enjoy over 60 decked-out vehicles, floats, and novelties ready to spread the festive spirit to all. Registration is open for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups to sign up and join this well-loved community tradition. Registration will be open on September 16th and will remain open until October 17th.

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, head north on Washington Street, and pass the panel of judges at the Talbot County 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 16th and close once capacity is reached. Late entries will be added to a waitlist. Please note that there will be limited capacity and parade registration always fills up long before the closing date.

For more information, email Lance Morris 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.

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.

Easton Economic Development Corporation (Easton EDC) has recently received funds from Project Restore to help with ongoing projects in downtown Easton. The funds originate from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, which awarded over $16.2 million to assist small businesses and support local revitalization projects on the Eastern Shore. The Grants from the Business Boost Microgrant Program, the Main Street Improvement Grant, and Project Restore 2.0 will facilitate community revitalization by attracting, retaining, and expanding small businesses, along with cultural attractions and events.

One of the local projects that will receive funding is Dover Station. The ongoing project involves revitalizing a former roofing supply center on Dover Street along the path of Rails-to-Trails. Dover Station is an exciting historical redevelopment in the heart of Easton. This local destination will feature a retail market showcasing a variety of local vendors, craftsmen, designers, and artists, all individually curated to provide a unique experience. The project is currently in phase one of planning and is a significant piece of the East End Small Area Plan for Easton.

Another project that will receive funding will be the future installation of a museum/visitor center that will show and tell the history of Talbot County’s native son, Frederick Douglass. Dock Street Foundation will take the lead role in the management and operation of the center. In addition to rotating displays and exhibits, the space will house the Bear Me Into Freedom project, a Frederick Douglass photography and film initiative created by Jeff McGuiness. The center will be the first of its kind in Talbot County. The funds will help with renovating a former downtown department store into a future museum space.

Holly DeKarske, Executive Director of the Easton EDC, shared her excitement for the development of both ventures and the positive effect they will have on the community going forward “The Easton EDC is thrilled to have received a fully funded Project Restore award. We are excited for our developers and their projects, both of which will have huge impacts on the Main Street and Arts & Entertainment Districts of Easton and its residents.”

For more information, email Lance Morris 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.