The Talbot Spy

Bay Country Chorus Welcomes New Members

April 1, 2023 by Spy Desk Leave a Comment

L to R: Joey Frankos (Baritone), Laverne Crabson (Tenor), Olivia Fleischfresser (Lead) and Sandy Ryder (Tenor). Back row Lesley Aaron (Director) and Bob Worsthorn (Lead).

The Bay Country Chorus is the Easton Maryland chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Founded in 1995 the chorus has performed in the four mid-shore counties at senior living communities, and venues where folks are in rehab or dealing with dementia. Many of these special citizens cannot get out to enjoy live music. Quite simply we bring the music to them.

Starting in 1995 the chorus has been an all-male group. Recently the Barbershop Harmony Society invited ladies to become full-time members. The chorus grasped that opportunity, and we now have four new female singers and one new male singer as well. On the male side we could use a bass or two.

Ladies or men who would like to take a look at the chorus are invited to attend one of our rehearsals. We meet at the Talbot County Senior Center at 400 Brooklets Ave. in Easton beginning at 6 pm on Monday evenings For further information on the chorus or to book a performance please call John Crovo 410-820-4761.

April is National Safe Digging Month

April 1, 2023 by Spy Desk Leave a Comment

April is National Safe Digging Month and Easton Utilities reminds contractors and homeowners to call 811, which begins the process of marking underground utility lines. “This free resource is a proactive measure which helps eliminate the risk of striking an underground utility line,” stated Andrew Ober, Safety Specialist for Easton Utilities. To prevent injuries, property damage and outages, residents must call 811 approximately 48 – 72 hours prior to work beginning.

The is a free service that notifies affected utilities of a person’s intent to dig. Within a few days, Easton Utilities will mark the locations of the utility-owned lines with paint or flags. The depth of utility lines can vary for a number of reasons, such as erosion, previous digging projects and uneven surfaces. Utility lines need to be properly marked because even when digging only a few inches, the risk of striking an underground utility line still exists. Call before you dig. It’s the law.

To learn more about Easton Utilities, call the Customer Service Center at 410-822-6110 or visit www.eastonutilities.com.

TIS Lip Sync Battle Goes Live Once Again In Its 7th Year

March 31, 2023 by Talbot Interfaith Shelter Leave a Comment

During the year-end holiday season, one might walk into a store or turn on the radio and hear various singers proclaiming, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” The staff and supporters of Talbot Interfaith Shelter (TIS), however, have that refrain stuck in their heads throughout what they affectionately refer to as ‘Lip Sync Season’ – the weeks leading up to and including TIS’ highly-anticipated annual Lip Sync Battle fundraiser.

After taking the competition online for two years and a hybrid event last year, Lip Sync Battle 2023 – presented by Sun Management Rising Technologies – is returning to its roots with a full live show on April 29^th at the Waterfowl Building (former Armory) in Easton. Doors open at 6:00 pm for light fare, cocktails, mixing, mingling, and photo booth fun. Showtime is at 7:00 pm.

Talbot Interfaith Shelter’s Lip Sync Battle is a can’t-miss evening filled with joy from start to finish. Hands will be clapping, toes will be tapping, and laughter will fill the air as teams from across our community come together to entertain and inspire the audience in hopes of earning votes for the title of 2023 Lip Sync Champion. This event makes for a perfect date night experience, a memorable evening of family fun, or a friends’ night out!

There are three competition categories this year: Live Performance, Videos Presented at the Live Show, and Online-Only Videos. Every team is competing to raise the most money in support of TIS’ mission to provide Shelter, Stability, Support, and a path to Success for local families and individuals in need. The winners in each group will be announced at the end of the show, as will the “People’s Choice” award, which is decided by audience applause.

“We are so excited to bring everyone back together once again this year,” says TIS Executive Director Julie Lowe. “There is absolutely nothing like the energy in the room during Lip Sync Battle. To look out and see a beautiful cross-section of our community and watch them share laughter and joy together… It is truly magical, and we just cannot wait!”

The competition has already begun, and the community can visit https://talbotinterfaithshelter.org/lsb to purchase tickets and/or vote for their favorite team(s) from now through the end of the show on April 29^th.

Those interested in becoming a Lip Sync Battle sponsor or volunteering during the event should contact TIS Development Director Laura Richeson at 443-786-6962 or lauraricheson@talbotinterfaithshelter.org.

Talbot Interfaith Shelter is a homeless shelter and transitional housing program based in Easton, MD and serving the five counties of the Mid-Shore (Talbot, Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Annes). They have developed the innovative and comprehensive S4 Program (Shelter, Stability, Support, Success), which is designed to guide local families and individuals from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

Guests begin at one of TIS’ two neighboring shelter homes – Easton’s Promise for families and Evelyn’s Place for single men and women – where they receive rigorous case management and attend life skills training while they work to attain financial stability. Once they are ready, guests move into one of TIS’ 15 off-site transitional apartments, where they continue to receive case management while their portion of rent gradually increases until they are able to sustain all of their expenses.

To learn more about Talbot Interfaith Shelter and how to help, visit https://talbotinterfaithshelter.org or contact Julie Lowe at 410-310-2316 or julielowe@talbotinterfaithshelter.org.

St. Michaels Community Center Hosts New Culinary and Hospitality Courses

March 30, 2023 by St. Michaels Community Center Leave a Comment

The St. Michaels Community Center has recently partnered with Chesapeake College to offer culinary and hospitality classes this spring.

“Spark a Flame Making Crème Brûlée” takes place on Tuesday, April 25 from 6-9 p.m. at SMCC, with participants learning the art of the most perfect custard topped with a flamed, most decadent crackly sugar top. In this 3-hour course, SMCC Executive Chef Kerri Clear and Chef Jordan Lloyd from Hambleton House Events and Catering will lead you through the process of mastering the tricks of preparing Crème Brûlée as only trained chefs know.

Topics include proper techniques, ingredients, and temperatures for preparing and finishing off this decadent dessert. Participants will leave this class with recipes and skills to impress your next dinner guests.

“The Art of Gracious Hospitality” takes place on Tuesday, May 23 from 6-9 p.m. at SMCC with participants learning the art of exceptional guest and customer service from the legendary Inn at Perry Cabin luxury resort.

Topics include the differences between service and gracious hospitality, what it takes to make it happen every day, how to master the finer points of “Presence & Presentation,” and how to turn your guest or customer into a passionate admirer of your brand.

Course fees are $90 per participant, per class. Class sizes are limited, with links for advanced registration with Chesapeake College at www.stmichaelscc.org/culinary.

The St. Michaels Community Center is currently campaigning for donations supporting the renovations of its building at 103 Railroad Ave., with expanded programs and services to include a new culinary and hospitality workforce training program. The renovations support SMCC’s mission to serve, empower, and connect the community, with year-round programs and activities. Architectural renderings of the new building and more about SMCC’s capital improvements are at www.stmichaelscc.org/future.

Donations to SMCC and proceeds from its Treasure Cove Thrift Shop on Railroad Ave. in St. Michaels help the nonprofit ensure children and adults from the Newcomb bridge to Tilghman Island have the resources they need. More is at www.stmichaelscc.org.

Oxford Museum Exhibit

March 24, 2023 by Spy Desk Leave a Comment

The Oxford Museum opens its 2023 season with a look at commerce: From Colonial Port to Present, Oxford in Business.

From the mid-1800s to the 1930’s Oxford was a thriving port town fueled by tourism and the oyster boom, enabled by easy access to and from the town to other major cities by water and rail. The population grew to 1,200, almost evenly divided between black and white residents, and their needs for goods and services grew exponentially.

Interior of Thompson’s Store

This new exhibit looks at Oxford in those glory days, when over 68 businesses were operating in the village including 11 grocery stores, a bank, carpenters, dentists, doctors, milliners, livery stables and more. In comparison, the exhibit also presents a look at Oxford today, a town of nearly 800 full and part-time residents. A number of Oxford Business Association members have made contributions to the exhibit, sharing their stories including how their businesses connected to Oxford’s history.

The Oxford Museum opens on Oxford Day, Saturday, April 22, and will continue through the early fall. Hours are 10 am – 4 pm, Friday through Monday. Admission is free.

For more information, or to become a member, volunteer or docent, please email us. theoxfordmuseum@gmail.com.

Talbot County Announces Speaker for Business Appreciation Summit on May 3

March 24, 2023 by Talbot County Office of Economic Development & Tourism Leave a Comment

Mark C. Perna

Generational expert, author, and speaker Mark C. Perna, author of Answering Why: Unleashing Passion, Purpose & Performance in Younger Generations, will headline both sessions of the Talbot County Business Appreciation Summit on Wednesday, May 3.

The Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism hosts the summit in partnership with the Talbot County Economic Development Commission. The annual event celebrates the local business community and honors businesses, projects, and individuals who have made a significant impact in the community.

The day will begin at 8 a.m. at the historic Tidewater Inn with Talbot County’s annual breakfast and awards ceremony, an event that draws more than 175 leaders who come together to celebrate the businesses, projects, and individuals who have made a significant impact on the community in the past year.

The summit continues at 3 p.m. with a regional keynote address at the historic Avalon Theatre with Mark C. Perna, who will offer a fresh take on engaging the workforce of tomorrow.

“This event has always celebrated the strength and resiliency of the local business community,” said Talbot County Economic Development and Tourism Director Cassandra Vanhooser. “This year’s event is especially exciting. Mark is so engaging and highly regarded that we have decided to expand the summit to include a keynote address for the entire region in the afternoon.”

Perna is a weekly contributor at Forbes.com and has published many articles in national publications as a recognized voice in student engagement and success. Every weekday, he hosts the 90-second Perna Syndicate podcast with listeners in more than 60 countries.

His multi-award-winning bestseller, Answering Why: Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations, was written to help educators, employers, and parents understand the millennial and Z generations and inspire them to greater performance in all areas of life. Perna lives in Cleveland, Ohio.

Perna’s keynote address is presented by Talbot County in partnership with the Mid-Shore Regional Council, Upper Shore Workforce Investment Board, Caroline County Economic Development and Tourism, and Dorchester County Economic Development.

Tickets for the breakfast are $45 per person and include a complimentary ticket to the afternoon session at the Avalon Theatre. Advance purchase is required. Tickets for the afternoon session are $25 per person, with tickets and reservations for both events made 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 may register to receive the Department of Economic Development and Tourism’s monthly newsletter and breaking news at www.talbotworks.org. The department can also be reached at 410-770-8000 or by visiting the department at 11. S. Harrison Street, Easton, Md.

Talbot Hospice Memorial Walk Returns to Oxford Day

March 23, 2023 by Talbot Hospice Leave a Comment

The Talbot Hospice Memorial Walk will return to Oxford this Spring as part of the annual Oxford Day tradition on Saturday, April 22^nd, at 1:00pm.

“We are so excited that the Memorial Walk is returning to Oxford Day,” said Mia Cranford, Director of Development. “The entire community is invited to join us to celebrate the lasting memories of their loved ones while raising funds to ensure that our programs and services are readily available to everyone in Talbot County.”

Participants may register as individuals or as part of a team, and everyone will have the option of launching their own crowd-funding campaign to reach their fundraising goals for Talbot Hospice.

The Talbot Hospice Memorial Walk will return to Oxford this Spring as part of the annual Oxford Day tradition on Saturday, April 22nd, at 1:00pm.

In addition to the group walk in Oxford, a virtual walk will also be available. Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the virtual walk has continued by popular demand to allow out-of-town family and friends to participate. It also provides another way to enjoy the walk for those who would prefer solitude or their favorite reflecting space.

Check-in for the in-person walk will begin at 12:30pm. Participants are encouraged to park at the Oxford Community Center and then walk or ride the shuttle to Bachelor’sPoint for the start of the walk, which will begin promptly at 1:00pm with opening ceremonies and the beloved dove release.

Participants may either walk with the group from Bachelor’s point back to the Oxford Community Center, or continue on to enjoy the Oxford Community Park before returning to the Community Center for music, food and celebration.

2023 Talbot Hospice Memorial Walk sponsors include: Blue Point Hospitality, Spurry Tire and Auto and Bay Imprint.

Additional sponsors are welcome, and interested individuals and businesses should contact Mia Cranford, Development Director, at mcranford@talbothospice.org.

Registration is $45/adults and Children 12 and free. To register for the walk, please visit www.talbotshopice.org.

About Talbot Hospice

Talbot Hospice provides compassionate care, comfort and support for patients and their families and caregivers wherever they call home. Talbot Hospice serves patients facing life-limiting illnesses through Hospice and Palliative Care as well as its Pathways and Bereavement programs. Services are available to patients and caregivers regardless of ability to pay. Learn more at www.talbothospice.org.

Maryland Day Celebration with The Dan Meyer Choir

March 23, 2023 by Talbot Historical Society Leave a Comment

The Dan Meyer Choir is Baltimore’s most original community choir, performing all original compositions and arrangements. They have performed for Artscape, the Star-Spangled Spectacular and many other events.

Most recently they sold out Baltimore’s Creative Alliance with an uproarious Presidents Day performance of The Love Songs of the Presidents: original settings of love poetry by former US Presidents.

This summer the Dan Meyer Choir will be making history as the first choir to provide live music for a community water ballet performance when they take to the stage with Baltimore’s Fluid Movement.

Dan Meyer Choir

Choral music creates a unique bond between people and we hope that celebrating Maryland Day with music from all across the state will bring joy and friendship among fellow Marylanders on both sides of the Bay.

The event will be held Saturday, March 25^th at 2pm outside in the Gardens at the Talbot Historical Society, 25 S. Washington Street, Easton, Maryland. PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN CHAIR AS SEATING IS NOT PROVIDED.

If bad weather is forecasted, please check our Facebook page for an update on the event and where it will be held.

Please call 410-822-0773 or email kaylaw@talbothistory.org with questions or additional information.

Radial Engines 101 to be held at Easton Airport on March 27

March 22, 2023 by Spy Desk Leave a Comment

Lycoming R-680-13 reciprocating 9 cylinder, air-cooled, 300 HP radial aircraft engine.

Students with a growing interest for aviation and engineering are in for a treat as Captain Hunter H. Harris of FlyAloft.com presents Radial Engines 101 on March 27 at Easton Airport. The event will be 5:30-7:00 p.m. and will be a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of a dismantled Lycoming R-680-13 reciprocating 9 cylinder, air-cooled, 300 HP radial aircraft engine.

Participants will get an up-close look at the engine parts during a classroom-style session led by Harris. The group will then take a short walking tour to Harris’ hangar, where they can see the complete power plant installed in his beautifully restored 1942 Stearman “Silver Queen.” If weather conditions permit, attendees will have the chance to see the mechanical marvel come to life.

“We are really excited to partner with Captain Harris and offer students a chance to learn about the inner workings of his radial aircraft engine,” Easton Airport Marketing & Business Coordinator Jeff Lankford said. “Hunters’ presentation will be engaging for students that we hope become future pilots, aircraft mechanics, and engineers.”

This event is free to attend and is open to all aviation enthusiasts. Younger students should be accompanied by an adult during the event. Students who participate will earn an “ACE Stamp” as part of the 2023 ACE Passport Program, which features spring and summer events designed to incentivize local students to expand their knowledge of aviation by providing structured activities with professionals at Easton Airport. By the end of the program, participants will be awarded an introductory flight-training scholarship.

For more information on the event and upcoming Easton Airport ACE programs, visit www.eastonairport.com.

Every Town Needs a Spy: A New Model for Community News

March 21, 2023 by Talbot County Free Library 3 Comments

Dave Wheelan, publisher and executive editor of The Talbot Spy, will speak at the St. Michaels Library on Thursday, April 20 at 11:00 am.

Wheelan will talk about the 13-year history of the Spy Newspapers in Talbot, Kent and Dorchester Counties. He will also go into detail about their impact on the communities they serve; and whether the Spy template might prove to be a successful template for other regions in the country that have lost their legacy newspapers.

Dave Wheelan

Wheelan was born and raised in Winnetka, IL. Over the last thirty years, he has worked in the fields of communications, institutional development, and strategic planning with the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Foundation, Washington College, The Nature Conservancy, Trust for Public Land, and the University of California, Berkeley.

He founded Spy in 2009, which currently supports three e-newspapers on the Eastern Shore.

For more information, call 410 745-5877 or visit the Events Calendar on the website: www.tcfl.org.

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.

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