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October 5, 2022

The Talbot Spy

The nonprofit e-newspaper for the Talbot County Community

Commerce

Easton Holiday Parade

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With Fall finally here, the holidays are just around the corner.  Join us downtown for the Easton Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 3rd, at 6:30 pm.  Registration is open for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community groups to sign up and be a part of this well-loved community tradition.  Registration is open until October 15th unless it fills up before then.

The tree lighting at Thompson Park will start the evening at 6 pm, followed by the parade at 6:30 pm.  The parade route will run from Talbot Town, south on Harrison Street, loop on South Street, and head north on Washington Street, past our panel of judges at the courthouse.  Entries will be judged on Best Nonprofit, Best Business, and Best Marching Band.

Easton Utilities bucket truck in Holiday Parade.

Please sign up via our online form at www.EastonEDC.com under the Easton Downtown tab. Signups are first come, first served, limited, and fill up quickly.  We will create a waiting list once registration closes.

We need YOU to help make this parade a success! Needed are Staging Coordinators working with parade organizers to help direct and line up the participants (shifts 4-6:30 pm) and Logistics Attendants to help with crowd and traffic control at intersections (shifts 6-8:30 pm). Adult Volunteers Only! To sign up, send a message to info@eastonedc.com.

Easton Utilities Recognizes Public Power & Gas Week

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Easton Utilities will recognize Public Power and Gas Week, October 2-8, along with more than 2,700 other community-powered electric and gas utilities. This annual nationwide event is intended to build public awareness about the value of having community-owned power and natural gas utilities. “As we all continue to feel the economic impact of rising energy costs, this is an ideal time to remind our customers of the many benefits of public power and gas including lower rates, increased reliability and exceptional customer service through local employees,” said John Hines, Easton Utilities Electric Department Manager.

Having a public power and natural gas utility is good for the community for many reasons including:

  • Customer Service: As a not-for-profit entity, public power and gas utilities focus on service, rather than profits.
  • Competitive Costs: In order to offer fair and competitive rates, public power and natural gas systems operate as a not-for-profit entity. These systems do not face pressure to pay dividends to stockholders.
  • Economic Benefits: Public utilities play a valuable role in helping communities broaden the tax base, and in turn improve the local economy and increase jobs. Public power and natural gas systems ensure that local dollars stay at home.
  • Local Control: Decisions are made through local citizen participation instead of being made from a distant location by people who do not understand local issues and who are primarily focused on profits instead of service.

To mark Public Power and Gas Week, Easton Utilities will be sharing tips on how to save energy and money in your home. “The importance of conservation can’t be emphasized enough, especially as we head into the winter months and face higher utility bills due to rising energy costs,” stated Tucker G. Bullock, Gas and Meter Department Manager for Easton Utilities.

Easton Utilities is a member of the American Public Power Association and the American Public Gas Association. These associations advocate and advise on various policy, trends, training and operations. They provide benchmarks and standards for all member utilities to use for measurement and accountability.

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. For more information, visit www.eastonutilities.com or call 410-822-6110.

Chesapeake Neighbors Creates Affordable Housing in Historic Downtown Easton

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Chesapeake Neighbors, an Arc Central Chesapeake Region committed to providing safe, accessible, and affordable housing in Maryland, is pleased to announce the purchase of Primrose House in Historic Easton, Maryland.

“There is nowhere in Maryland that has enough affordable housing,” said Judi Olinger, Executive Director, Chesapeake Neighbors. “We are excited to be able to offer this resource to the community, and to be a part of the solution to the housing crisis.”

This purchase is the first of several new development and housing opportunities that Chesapeake Neighbors plans to unveil over the next year on the Mid-shore. Chesapeake Neighbors currently owns and operates over 60 units throughout Maryland, with a goal of operating over 160 units by 2025.

“We are actively growing the number of affordable units we offer to the community. While we’re proud to support Easton with these 10-units of affordable housing, we need to do more,” said Olinger. “Over the next two years, we plan to bring an additional 40 units to market on the Mid-Shore. Primrose House is the first critical step in making that happen.”

Primrose House holds historical significance and is minutes from Downtown Easton, giving tenants access to all the community has to offer—shopping, dining and attractions. The property currently offers 10-units of affordable housing in a historic, market-rate neighborhood, and has room for further expansion to include additional units over time. Chesapeake Neighbors is committed to ensuring the integrity and historical value of the building(s) are maintained over time.

As Chesapeake Neighbors continues to develop properties throughout the region, they are prioritizing opportunities in the heart of the community, close to public transportation and amenities.

About Chesapeake Neighbors
Chesapeake Neighbors was founded in 2007 by The Arc Central Chesapeake Region to provide, promote and support safe, affordable, and accessible housing for people and families in need. What started with one house in Anne Arundel County has grown to over 50 owned and managed, affordable, accessible single and multifamily units across Anne Arundel County and the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Learn more at https://chesapeakeneighbors.org/.

MDA Reminds Rural Marylanders to Expect an Increase in Low-Flying Planes Due to Fall Cover Crop Planting

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The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) is reminding citizens in rural areas to expect an increase in low-flying airplanes or helicopters through Oct. 10, 2022 due to aerial seeding of small grains. Farmers enrolled in Maryland’s Cover Crop Program use this method of seeding in their fields to help protect water quality in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. 

“Maryland’s Cover Crop Program is our most popular conservation practice,” said Maryland Agriculture Secretary Joe Bartenfelder. “In the fall, participating farmers plant wheat, rye, and other small grains on newly harvested fields to recover any leftover nutrients from summer crops. This helps protect water quality in local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay while building and maintaining soil health. People living in rural Maryland should expect an increase in low-flying aircraft over the next several weeks while seeding occurs.”

Farmers enrolled in the Cover Crop Program may plant small grains and other qualifying species by incorporating seeds into newly harvested fields or aerially seeding them into standing corn, soybeans, or sorghum. Once established, cover crops work all winter long to provide a living, protective cover against erosion and nutrient runoff while building the soil’s organic matter for the next year’s crop. No pesticides or fertilizers are applied to cover crops. For aerial seeding, small planes will take off from local airports serving the county or region.

Maryland’s Cover Crop Program is funded by the Bay Restoration Fund and the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund. The program is administered by MDA and the state’s 24 soil conservation districts through the Conservation Grants Program. For more information, please contact your local soil conservation district. 

Increasing Cost of Energy Impacts Utility Bills

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President and CEO Hugh E. Grunden

At the Easton Town Council meeting on Monday evening, Easton Utilities presented the national economic realities behind the increasing energy costs, the strategies the company uses to dampen the impact, and what residents can do to keep their utility bills as low as possible.

President and CEO Hugh E. Grunden explained the various components of the electric bill and how the Energy Chargeportion is the line item being affected by the escalating costs. This charge is passed through to the customer at no markup – it is exactly what Easton Utilities pays to purchase energy on the customers’ behalf. The dramatic increase is a direct result of inflation and is a national issue affecting all utilities. “Geopolitical events and US energy policy have conspired to cause a dramatic increase in energy costs,” Grunden shared. “There remains upward pressure on energy prices as we move into the winter period.”

Grunden shared a comparison of an average Easton Utilities residential bill which reflected a 28% increase from August 2021 to August 2022. Under the Energy Risk Management Oversight Committee (ERMOC) policy, the company utilizes a variety of strategies to dampen the impact of volatile prices through advance purchasing over time and using a mix of fuel sources. In addition, when energy prices are high on the market, the ability to generate power onsite helps offset the higher prices.

Although fall weather in our region may result in lower bills due to less usage, the energy costs for electric and natural gas continue to increase. Easton Utilities encourages customers to be prepared for higher bills as the temperature starts to drop and we head into winter. Grunden provided several tips aimed at reducing consumption including the use of efficient appliances, checking for and repairing leaks, upgrading HVAC equipment, and adjusting thermostats. “Every two degrees can result in a 1% – 3% savings off your bill,” he said. For those struggling to pay bills, there are a variety of assistance programs and resources available.

As the Town of Easton’s municipal utility, Easton Utilitiesemploys a workforce of 169, the majority of which not only work but also live in or around Easton. In addition to the ongoing messaging to educate customers about the importance of conservation and the rising energy costs, Easton Utilities reminds customers that their bills include the numerous services they provide.“It is important to keep in mind our bill covers electric, gas, water, wastewater, internet, cable tv, and phone services, especially if you are comparing to an electric only provider,” added Grunden.

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. Visit eastonutilities.com or call 410-822-6110 for more information including conservation tips and assistance programs and resources.

Scott and Tracy Wagner Announced as Presenting Sponsors of Easton Airport Day 2022

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Tracy Wagner, Scott Wagner, and their beloved dog Burry.

The Easton Airport Day event committee is excited to announce Scott and Tracy Wagner as the presenting sponsors of Easton Airport Day. The 13th annual event takes flight on October 8, offering the entire family an opportunity to visit the local airfield and see what flying is all about.

Easton Airport Day features rare and unique aircraft, military jets, airport equipment, and interesting vehicles on display to the public. Photo-ops will be available with chances for families to sit inside select aircraft and meet the pilots that fly them.

Formation flyovers with rare “Warbirds” flying patterns over the skies of Easton highlights the festivities. The world-famous Rubber Chicken Drop Contest will delight the crowd as pilots skillfully attempt to hit the bed of a pickup truck while flying over the airport.

“We are thrilled to have Scott and Tracy Wagner’s sponsorship once again,” Easton Airport Manager Micah Risher said. “Their ongoing support helps us attract interesting aircraft, great pilots, and put on a special event at the community airfield.”

Scott and Tracy Wagner stepped up to sponsor the Easton Airport Day 2021, helping the event return after a two-year hiatus with more planes and a larger attendance than ever before.

“It is our honor to be a part of Easton Airport Day again this year,” Scott and Tracy Wagner said in a joint statement. “The Easton Airport is a huge asset to our community. Last year’s event was a great success. Thousands of people were able to attend the event. Between the formation flying, the pilots who participated, organizers, volunteers, and the people who attended, we witnessed a fun-filled day for all.”

Easton Airport Day is free to attend and there is no fee for parking. Parking attendants will be onsite to help attendees find appropriate parking spaces on airport property. Additional handicapped parking near the terminal building will be provided. Be prepared to traverse long distances, as displays and activities are located all over the airport grounds.

A full schedule of activities and an event map will be available online in late September. For more information about Easton Airport Day, or to become a sponsor, visit www.eastonairportday.com. Follow Easton Airport on Facebook @EastonAirport for event updates.

About Easton Airport Day: Easton Airport Day is a component fund of the Mid-Shore Community Foundation. Proceeds from donors and sponsors support the cost of the event with remaining funds supporting Aviation Career Education (ACE) programs – provide students the opportunity to explore careers in the aerospace industry, and provide resources and support to aid their vocational pursuit.

About Scott and Tracy Wagner: Scott and Tracy believe that it is critical to support the local community. Tracy is a licensed realtor with Meredith Fine Properties. Scott has spent thirty-five years in the waste and recycling business in South Central Pennsylvania and has developed industrial buildings for almost three decades. His most recent real estate project is the development and construction of industrial buildings in the Easton Technology Center directly across from Easton Airport.

Harris Announces DOT Grant To Extend Easton Newman Field Airport Runway

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Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), the Acting Ranking Member of House Appropriations Agriculture Subcommittee, is pleased to announce that the Department of Transportation issued a discretionary grant award in the amount of $1,546,734.00 to construct and extend the Easton Newman Field Airport runway in Talbot County. Extending the Easton Newman Field Airport runway will also provide an added measure of safety for both inbound and outbound air traffic as well as the runway maintenance crew. As one of only 84 National level airports, Easton Airport connects the First District as well as many local and statewide communities with access to national travel in multiple states.

Congressman Harris issued the following the statement:

“I am very pleased to see that the Department of Transportation issued this discretionary grant award to improve and extend the Easton Newman Airport runway. This funding is necessary especially at a time when air travel has increased significantly due people traveling more as our lives get back to normal. Extending the Easton Airport runway will also improve the general safety of all runway staff and I look forward to seeing the final completion of this project.”

Sparks Appointed as Talbot County Finance Director

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Martha Darling Sparks

The Talbot County Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Martha Darling Sparks as Talbot County Finance Director.  Sparks began work with the county in July 2022 and brings a wealth of experience working for local government.

Sparks received an MBA from Wilmington University and a B.S. Degree in Accounting from Wesley College.  Additionally Sparks is a graduate of the Academy of Excellence in Local Governance from the University of Maryland, School of Public Policy.  She has worked in local government for the past eight years and has furthered her government knowledge by working with the Maryland Municipal League and Maryland Association of Counties.  Sparks and her family have lived in Talbot County for 24 years. Sparks stated, “I love the community I live in and I’m excited to bring my professional knowledge and skills to work for my home county as its new Finance Director.”

“We are so fortunate to have found an ideal candidate for this position who is not only passionate about working for local government, but who has lived in our county for many years and has raised her family here.  Martha is a welcome addition to the Talbot County team,” stated Chuck Callahan, President, Talbot County Council.

Clay Stamp, Talbot County Manager, commented “Martha’s years of experience working in local government are a true asset to the county.  She will bring many skills to our management team.”

ShiAnn Steele Joins Mid-Shore Pro Bono

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ShiAnn Steele

ShiAnn Steele of Smyrna, Del. has recently joined the Salisbury office of the non-profit Mid-Shore Pro Bono as the Lower Shore Intake and Outreach Coordinator.

In the position, Steele is responsible for initiating services with clients in Wicomico, Worcester, and Somerset counties, along with outreach activities that cultivate public awareness, charitable donations, and volunteer recruitment for the nonprofit organization. Johannah Cooper previously served in the position and is now off to pursue a graduate degree in social work at Boston University this fall.

Steele is the fourth internship alumni hired onto Mid-Shore Pro Bono’s staff and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Salisbury University, where she is named to the Dean’s List. She is a Smyrna High School graduate, with her academic merits earning her membership to the National Honor Society.

“ShiAnn was one of our summer interns in 2021, and she never stopped her internship—she just kept on volunteering because she enjoyed the work so much,” said Mid-Shore Pro Bono Executive Director Meredith Lathbury Girard, Esq.

“Our theory of workforce development is working,” said Girard. “Which is ultimately a double-win for the people who need our services the most, because they have a larger, compassionate team working for them, while we bring more students into rewarding careers in civic engagement and civil justice.”

“I am very passionate about giving back to the community, especially in legal services because I firmly believe everyone has a right to justice,” says Steele. “As a philosophy and law and justice advocacy student a large portion of my studies involves deepening my understanding of what is morally just for people.”

MSPB’s Sandy Brown Public Interest Internship was established in 2021 to honor MSPB’s previous executive director Sandy Brown—and is supported by the Rural Maryland Council and the Maryland Bar Foundation. The donor-funded program provides undergraduate and law school students with a stipend while learning in the areas of public interest law, non-profit management, community service, and basic work experience.

Mid-Shore Pro Bono delivers a mission of helping Maryland’s Eastern Shore residents obtain access to legal assistance through a network of volunteers, with offices in Easton, Chestertown, and Salisbury. Donations to the Sandy Brown Public Interest Internship Fund can be made online using the donate button at www.midshoreprobono.org.

Easton Utilities Announces Two Senior Executive Promotions

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Easton Utilities recently promoted senior executives John J. Horner, Jr. and Vicki L. Petro. Horner will serve as the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer and Petro as Vice President of Human Resources. “At this time of significant growth and transition for our organization, these two individuals bring stability along with the strategic vision needed for Easton Utilities to flourish,” stated Hugh E. Grunden, President and CEO of Easton Utilities.

These two integral positions reflect Easton Utilities’ unwavering commitment toward operational excellence by recognizing the importance of safety, people, and service reliability. As the organization continues to evolve and expand, especially considering the countywide broadband project, Connect Talbot, these promotions enable us to continue our focus on Easton Utilities’ strategy, culture, and mission.

John J. Horner, Jr. and Vicki L. Petro

John J. Horner, Jr.

John is responsible for implementing policies and spearheading the overall operational plan for Easton Utilities. His leadership guides the daily operational activities by ensuring the safe delivery of reliable utility and broadband services. John provides organizational stability through the oversight and constant evaluation of regulations, policies and procedures. Prior to joining Easton Utilities in 2016, John held various senior level positions with Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE). He graduated from The Johns Hopkins University with a BS in Electrical & Computer Engineering and holds an MBA from Loyola College. John is active in the community serving as a board member for the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Hospice, and Tidewater Rotary. He is a 2018 graduate of  Shore Leadership and 2021 graduate of Leadership Maryland.

Vicki L. Petro

Since joining Easton Utilities in 1993, Vicki has been responsible for benefits, compensation, training and development, employee relations, performance management, company policy, management practices, recruitment and staffing, and employee wellness at Easton Utilities. She was instrumental in creating a “Deliberate Development” program focused on expanding the capacity of individuals to perform in leadership roles. Vicki continues to build and modify various programs including Emerging Leaders, Mentoring, Wellness, and Leadership Development. She is a SHRM Certified Professional and holds a Professional Human Resource Certificate from the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) and a Human Resource Management Certification through Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Vicki earned her BA from Washington State University and is an alumna of Shore Leadership, Class of 2004. She is currently involved with the Mid Shore Health Improvement Coalition Diabetes Awareness Campaign and serves on the board of directors for Talbot Humane.

About Easton Utilities

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. Visit eastonutilities.com for more information.