Cover Photo by Alan Lowrey, Acting Town Manager/ EPD Chief
SPOOKY SEASON
October is here, and I am here for it!
Last month we celebrated our first responders and paid homage to those who lost their lives 23 years ago on 9/11/2001, we saw a visit from Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld, and we welcomed in several new hires to our team.
We have some exciting things to look forward to in the coming weeks, including an employee appreciation breakfast, a Stay and Play Pickleball Event, and a newly observed holiday (Columbus Day/ Indigenous People’s Day/Canadian Thanksgiving) to enjoy some time off.
We’re cresting nicely into the Holiday season, and I couldn’t be more proud of all that we have accomplished so far. I have no doubt that our team will make 2024 a year to remember for the Town of Easton. Thank you all, and keep up the good work!
Click HERE to see Scott’s video interview!
Employee Spotlight
SCOTT MESSICK | IT DIRECTOR
Meet Scott Messick! Scott serves as the Director of IT for the Town of Easton. Scott has worked with the Town of Easton (and Easton Utilities) for the better part of 40 years!
Scott is responsible for all hardware and software items for the Town. This includes the maintenance and upkeep of servers, computers and printers, software management, networking, cybersecurity, data storage, and much, much more.
In his free time, Scott enjoys photographing the environment around him. Even when he is out camping or fishing, you’re likely to see a camera in Scott’s hand as he surveys the nearby landscapes and wildlife for an interesting shot.
Megan
9/11 Day of Remembrance
NEVER FORGET
Talbot County hosts 9/11 Day of Remembrance event
Talbot County held a free, outdoor 9/11 Day of Remembrance Ceremony on September 11, 2024 at 8:30 AM in downtown Easton at the memorial on the corner of West and Dover Streets.
The ceremony included speeches from local dignitaries such as Mayor Megan Cook and County Council Member Pete Lesher honoring the memories of those who lost their lives on September 11,
2001, and offering support and encouragement to the first responders in the community.
Several Town of Easton Employees attended the event. Town Planner Lynn Thomas said, “I thought the event was very well done and moving. It felt appropriate to attend and to take some time to remember and reflect on the events that occured that day.”
MAYOR COOK’S 9/11 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE REMARKS
This year marks 23 years that have passed since that day when our world was altered. 23 years.
In these two decades much has changed, and yet the memory of September 11, 2001 remains as vivid as ever for most of us. For others, particularly those born after that day, it is history, but we are here today to ensure that its lessons — of courage, of loss, and of unity — are never forgotten.
Let us forever honor the bravery of the first responders who, without hesitation, ran toward danger when others fled.
And let us always be thankful to the soldiers, in the years since, who took up the mantle of defending our freedom. Their sacrifices are a solemn reminder of the true cost of liberty.
As a nation, we faced profound sorrow, grief, and hardship, but we also discovered resilience and an unbreakable strength. Communities came together, strangers became friends, and compassion prevailed in the face of adversity.
Historical events like 9/11 challenge us, but they also strengthen us. The lessons learned and the values gained, are the foundation of what it means to be an American, a good neighbor, and a good human being.
So how do we, as community members, parents, teachers, and leaders, ensure that the values we learned are passed on to future generations? The answer is simple: we must live each day as a testament to the unity, kindness, and goodwill that emerged in the aftermath of that day. It is through our actions that we keep those lessons alive, honoring the past by shaping a better future.
23 years later — It remains our duty to carry these lessons forward, to show resilience and to care for others. Even small gestures can shape our nation and the world for the better.
True progress comes from strengthening our connections with one another and fostering a sense of community. By carrying forward the values of togetherness and support, we honor those who have been lost and work towards a future where their sacrifices are remembered.
Be prepared. Be vigilant. Be strong. And be the change you wish to see. If we collectively commit ourselves to those principles, we will not only work towards a brighter tomorrow but also honor the legacy of those who perished 23 years ago.
Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld listens to Talbot County Councilman and Vice President Pete Lesher during an event in Easton to announce landmark action plan to improve and expand trail connectivity in Maryland.
TWO STEPS FORWARD
Maryland Transportation Secretary Wiedefeld Announces Development Of New Statewide Transportation Trails Plan
Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld today announced the Department is developing a landmark action plan to improve and expand trail connectivity in Maryland. The plan will guide future investment in shared-use paths across the state, helping to advance efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, boost alternatives to driving and prioritize the safety of all road users across the transportation network.
Updated for the first time in more than a decade, the new statewide strategic plan will focus on strengthening the connectivity of shared-use paths that are open to bicycle and pedestrian traffic. As part of the process, the Maryland Department of Transportation will create an inventory of shared-use trails, study existing conditions and make recommendations for improvements. The initiative aims to leverage the use of available federal and
(Photo by David Trozzo)
state dollars to further the Department’s goal of building a connected network of trails across the state.
At a Friday morning event in the Town of Easton, Talbot County, Secretary Wiedefeld was joined by residents, advocates and elected leaders and participated in a trail walk to kick off the statewide trails initiative.
“Shared-use paths are a critical piece of Maryland’s transportation system and contribute to the Maryland Department of Transportation’s goals of enhancing accessibility and connectivity, growing the economy, and expanding safe routes for pedestrians and bicyclists,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “Walking along the rail-trail in downtown Easton, I know this is just one of many paths that will further connect communities and support tourism on the Eastern Shore.”
The new Maryland State Transportation Trails Strategic Plan, to be completed next year, will align with existing bicycle and pedestrian efforts such as the new department-wide Complete Streets Policy and the State Highway Administration’s datadriven Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, both of which aim to improve access and safety for all road users by requiring the addition of safety features such as bike lanes and pedestrian crossings in road projects across the state.
The new trails initiative will also build on the foundation of MDOT’s 2009 Trails Plan and the 2050 Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan to meet state sustainability goals and address growing demand for an integrated transportation trail system.
MDOT is partnering with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and other state and local agencies to develop the strategic plan, working collaboratively to increase access to a larger network of trails that benefit all Marylanders.
“From the Cross Island Trail to the Western Maryland Rail Trail, we know shared use trails are popular across our state,” said Sandi Olek, Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. “We look forward to working with MDOT to create better connections between existing shared trails, state lands, and points of interest. Providing safe shared trails that connect with places that
people want to visit is a proven way to boost economic opportunities and improve public health.”
This fall, MDOT will begin to take an inventory of the existing trail infrastructure, identifying the shared-use path network, missing trail links and unused rail corridors that can be turned into shared-used paths.
Upon completion next year, the plan will provide a blueprint for prioritizing missing links and crossings and will deliver a
“Walking along the rail-trail in downtown Easton, I know this is just one of many paths that will further connect communities and support tourism on the Eastern Shore .
Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld
toolkit for localities and other partners to complete trail projects. MDOT will seek public input through webinars and a trails survey and will provide progress reports to the Maryland Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee.
Earlier this week, Governor Wes Moore announced $16 million in funding for bicycle, pedestrian and trail projects across Maryland, including $13.9 million in federal funding awarded through the Transportation Alternatives Program and the Recreational Trails Program, and $2.1 million in state funding through the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program.
Among the 36 projects receiving support are trail improvements in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Caroline County and the campus of Mount St. Mary’s University. Funds will also help cover the cost of design and construction of shared-used paths in the Town of St. Michaels, along MD 611 in Worcester County and in College Park, Prince George’s County.
Click here to see video footage of the event (scroll to the 48:30 minute mark)
WHAT’S NEW AT EASTON PD
To kick things off, congratulations to our newly promoted corporals: Corporal Gregory Hall and Corporal Cody Bland!
Cpl. Hall and Cpl. Bland were both promoted at the September 16 Town Council Meeting and had their new badges pinned by close family members (Hall’s son and Bland’s wife). We applaud them for their hard work and dedication in achieving this rank, and are proud to have them both on our team!
On September 30, we welcomed a new recruit to the team: Josiah Wal -
ters-Parker. When asked about why he chose to serve here, Josiah said, “I’m not exactly local, but I visited Easton during the Waterfowl Festival last year and the town really left an impression on me. I knew that I wanted to start a career in law enforcement, but I wasn’t sure where that would be. That visit to Easton sealed the deal.” Welcome aboard, Josiah!
Lastly, we got a unique look at the new police cruisers all finished and parked together. Click the image of the cruisers in the top right to see the video.
Click this image to see footage of EPD’s new cruisers.
A SIMPLE GESTURE
Chief Human Resource Officer Rick Farr sets up Missing Man Table
On Friday, September 20, Rick Farr, Retired USAF war veteran and Chief Human Resource Officer for the Town of Easton set up the Missing Man Table in honor of POW/MIA Recognition Day.
The table was set up near a front facing window at Town Hall, so that employees and even passers by could stop and take some time to honor our soldiers who have either been held prisoner, or who have never returned home from battle.
THE MEANING BEHIND THE POW/MIA TABLE SETTING:
The table that stands before you is a place of honor. In setting this table, we acknowledge those missing from our celebrations. And we remember them.
The table is small and set for one — Symbolizing the vulnerability of a lone prisoner against his captors.
The tablecloth is white — Symbolizing purity of intention in responding to the nation’s call to arms.
The chair is empty, for they are not here.
The wine glass is inverted — They cannot toast with us.
The slices of lemon — Reminding us of their bitter suffering.
The grains of salt — Representing the
countless tears of the families.
The single red rose with a red ribbon — Reminding us of loved ones who keep the faith awaiting their return.
The burning candle — Symbolizing everlasting hope of a reunion with the missing.
— All who have served alongside them; we who have donned the same proud uniform, being sworn to the same faith and allegiance — We will never forget their sacrifice.
— Until the day they return home, or find eternal peace, we will remember.
Talbot Thrive Rolling Rodeo
Join us on October 19 at Easton Elementary School for Easton’s first-ever Rolling Rodeo where kids will have an opportunity to learn basic bike-riding skills, safe riding/rolling practices, and the importance of wearing a helmet!
COST: FREE
ADDRESS: 307 Glenwood Ave. Easton, MD
TIME: 10/19/24 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (volunteers report at 9 a.m.)
Free helmets and water bottles, while supplies last
Sign up in advance, and learn more about the event on the Talbot Thrive website by CLICKING HERE.
Click the image to sign up for the Potluck!
WE HAVE A WINNER!
Congratulations to Kathy Ruf, Town Clerk, for winning the Employee Newsletter Cover Photo Contest!
Kathy now has a $25 gift card to Chic Fil-A for her submission that landed on the September cover of the Town of Easton Employee Newsletter.
You could be the next winner by submitting your potential cover photos to gmueller@ eastonmd.gov. If your submission is chosen, you too will win a $25 gift card!
Employee Benefits
OCTOBER Human Resources
Birthdays
Jeffrey Olds
Charles Connolly
Shelby Ruf
Marvin Jenkins
Lorraine Gould
Scott Finch
Autumn Hayden
Dawn Hutchison
Kyle Hardy
Greg Mueller
Jennifer Kellner
Michael Epstein
Carol Callahan
Rick Farr
Anniversaries
OCTOBER
Lynn Thomas - 21 years
Lorraine Gould - 19 years
Thomas Diem - 14 years
Michael Whitby - 14 years
Dustin Otto - 14 years
Christopher Westerfield - 11 years
Ronald Hayman - 11 years
Garey Fike - 7 years
Nicholas Ewing - 1 year
Michael Duenas - 1 year
PIER-OGI DOKIE
Celebrate Cozy Season with a Creamy, Comforting Pumpkin Meal
(Family Features) A snug sweater, a crackling fire and a meal that warms you from the inside out are perfect ways to spend a cool autumn evening with the people you love.
Gather around the table for a hearty meal featuring some of the most comforting flavors of fall and this comforting version of Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Mini Pierogies.
CREAMY PUMPKIN SOUP WITH MINI PIEROGIES
Prep time: 5 minutes, Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
1 large shallot
1 large Honeycrisp apple (or 1 1/2 cups)
5 garlic cloves
Olive oil
2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, divided
2 cups canned pumpkin puree
2 teaspoons maple syrup
Pepper, to taste
Salt, to taste
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons heavy cream
Fresh thyme, to taste
1 box Mini 4 Cheese Medley Mrs. T’s Pierogies
Slice shallot, peel and cube apple and crush garlic.
In pot over medium-low heat, add drizzle of olive oil and saute shallots, garlic and apple 20 minutes, covered. Let mixture slightly cool then add to blender with 1/2 cup broth and blend until fully combined.
In pot, add pumpkin puree; blended shallot mixture; maple syrup; salt, to taste; pepper, to taste; nutmeg; cinnamon; remaining broth; heavy cream; and thyme, to taste. Bring to low boil then add frozen pierogies. Boil 3 minutes.
