EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER | OCTOBER 2025
Cover Photo by Samatha Smith, Administrative Specialist
FALL-ING INTO PLACE
With the arrival of fall, our community enters a season of reflection and change. The turning of the leaves reminds us to pause, take stock, and appreciate both where we’ve been and where we’re headed.
In this month’s newsletter, we look back on the 9/11 Day of Remembrance Ceremony, where neighbors and community members came together to honor the lives lost, the resilience that carries us forward, and the first responders who continue to protect and serve our community every day. We also mark new beginnings with the groundbreaking of Vetagro, a project that represents growth and opportunity for our town.
Closer to home, renovations at the Visitor Center are moving ahead, with important updates to both the building and the parking lot. A special thank-you goes to our Public Works team, whose hard work on the outside improvements helped set the stage for the project’s success. And on a lighter, heartwarming note, we share the story of Officer Roberts and his quick action in rescuing a kitten — a small but meaningful reminder of the everyday acts of service that make Easton such a special place.
Click HERE to see Carolinne’s video interview!
Employee Spotlight
CAROLINNE KAHANE | ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST
Meet Carolinne Kahane! Carolinne works as an Administrative Specialist for the Town of Easton’s Finance Department. Carolinne has been working here for over 5 years now.
Carolinne works at the Town Hall’s front office, which is the first point of contact for most people reaching out to the Town of Easton. She helps to handle finance operations, as well as answering phone calls and taking questions from people who come to the building. Additionally, Carolinne uses her ability to speak Spanish to help translate information for other departments when needed.
In her free time, Carolinne enjoys crafting, crocheting, and spending time with her family. They love taking trips together to watch Philadelphia-Area sporting events (Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, etc.) and concerts in the area.
Megan Cook
A SOLEMN REMEMBRANCE
Talbot County hosts 9/11 Day of Remembrance
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 event honored the lives lost in the 2001 tragedy and pays tribute to first responders and community members who responded and those who continue to serve.
The program included remarks from local leaders, patriotic music, a presentation of the flags, and a moment of silence with the tolling of the bells. A wreath was laid in remembrance of the lives lost, followed by a benediction.
The event saw a good turnout, and was a successful reminder of the unity and comaraderie that our country embraced in the aftermath of 9/11/2001.
MAYOR COOK’S 9/11 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE REMARKS
We come together today to remember a tragedy that forever changed our nation. 24 years ago, on the morning of September 11, we saw unprecedented terrorist attacks on our country unfold before our eyes. These attacks resulted in nearly three thousand American lives lost, and saw the complete destruction of the World Trade Centers in New York City. Even now, 24 years later, images of these attacks endure, both preserved to film and tape, and marked on our minds.
The images from that day also remain etched in our hearts - powerful and profound — changing our lives and outlooks forever. While many of those defining images are of destruction and loss, the ones that stand out most to me reveal the very best in humanity.
For every image of the Towers being struck, there are others of police officers and firefighters pressing forward through smoke and rubble, fighting not only for their own survival but for the lives of others.
For every memory of the Towers falling, there is the memory of men and women who ran toward the chaos rather than away from it — willing to risk everything to help those in need.
The days that followed this tragic event reminded us that not all heroes wear capes, or in this instance, fire hats and police badges. Across the country, unity and selflessness became a powerful force for good, with extensive volunteer efforts, widespread donations of money and supplies, and in the countess young Americans inspired to serve in our country’s armed forces.
The impact and importance of 9/11 can not be overstated — we are still feeling it today. Yet, as time moves on, the
unity and solidarity we experienced tends to fade. Not disappearing, but settling in the same way that our lives and daily routines do.
One of the most important takeaways, and one of the reasons this event and other programs of remembrance are so crucial, is that it helps to remind us of all the good that we are capable of. In times of tragedy, we have seen how neighbors can lift one another up.
In times of peace we must remember that same strength lives within us. Every day offers us the chance to support, encourage and serve one another, making our towns, our communities, and our country a better place.
Our greatness as a nation has always come from unity - our ability to come together as a sum greater than our parts.
United, we have faced disasters, wars and challenges that once seemed insurmountable. And that same spirit of unity lives here at home. Every day, on the streets of our community, we see it in the dedication of our firefighters, our police officers and all those who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Their service reminds us that standing united is not only something we do in times of national crisis, but a responsibility we carry with us each and every day.
May we honor the memory of 9/11 not only with our words today, but with our actions every day - standing united, supporting one another and building a community that reflects the very best of who we are.
State and local officials joined leaders of Vetagro to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Italian animal nutrition company’s new manufacturing facility in Easton, Md., marking the first business to begin construction at Mistletoe Hall Commerce-Business Park. The Easton location will serve as Vetagro’s first full-scale U.S. manufacturing facility.
A NEW START
Italian Firm Vetagro Expands U.S. Operations with Groundbreaking in Easton
Vetagro marked a new chapter in its global story on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. A global leader in precision animal nutrition, the Italian company broke ground on September 16, 2025, on a new production and distribution facility at Mistletoe Hall Commerce-Business Park in Easton, Maryland.
Expected to open in July 2026, the Easton facility will serve as Vetagro’s first full-scale U.S. manufacturing facility. While the company maintains a European presence in Italy, the new Easton plant will expand capacity and significantly strengthen Vetagro’s ability to serve North American customers and international markets.
Andrea Piva, president of Vetagro, describes the decision as both strategic and deeply intentional. “As an Italian company, we have built our reputation on scientific excellence,” Piva said. “Expanding our presence with a fully integrated production and distribution facility in the United States is a natural next step in our strategy.
“Easton offered more than logistical advantages,” he continues. “We discovered here a collaborative business climate, proximity to research centers and government agencies, and a welcoming community. Those qualities convinced us this was the right place to grow.”
A Welcome Investment for Maryland and Talbot County
The company’s journey to Easton was supported by the Maryland Department of Commerce, which worked with Vetagro to identify suitable sites and connect with developers. By locating within one of Maryland’s Enterprise Zones, the company will also qualify for property and state income tax credits tied to job creation and investment.
Maryland Commerce Secretary Harry Coker, Jr. calls the groundbreaking a milestone for the state’s growing biotech and agricultural technology sectors.
“
Easton
offered more than logistical advantages . . .We discovered here a collaborative business climate, proximity to research centers and government agencies, and a welcoming community. Those qualities convinced us
this was the right place to grow.”
Andrea Pivea, Vetagro President
“I am thrilled to welcome Vetagro to Maryland’s beautiful Eastern Shore and its thriving business community,” Coker says. “Their dedication to research, innovation, and biotechnology engineering makes them a perfect fit for Maryland. We are proud to have them join our state’s diverse and innovative economy.”
For Talbot County, the company’s arrival signals new opportunities for economic growth and innovation.
“Vetagro’s decision to invest here is a big win for our community, and we’re excited about a company that shares our values of innovation, hard work, and commitment to quality,” says Talbot County Council President Chuck Callahan. “We look forward to a strong partnership as Vetagro grows here in Easton.”
A Global Vision Rooted Locally
Vetagro’s decision to build in Easton underscores the region’s growing reputation as a place where global companies can find both opportunity and community. The facility is expected not only to expand Vetagro’s operational capacity but also to create jobs, strengthen the local economy, and expand Maryland’s role in advancing animal nutrition worldwide.
Visitor Center
EASTON VISITOR CENTER RENOVATION UPDATES
Take a quick look at the Visitor Center renovations, as Public Works finished up work on the Parking Lot and brick sidewalks, and as our Buildings and Facilities team oversees an indoor renovation that is nearly complete!
Click to see a video walk-through!
CENTER UPDATES
COFFEE HYDRATE WITH A COP
EPD hosts Coffee With a Cop at the Hearthstone Gym
The latest Coffee With a Cop was more of a “hydrate with cop” as it took place at Hearthstone Easton gym. EPD passed out Gatorade, energy bars, and water bottles instead of coffee and pastries — but they still had a great turnout and enjoyed their time conversing with everyone who passed through.
Chief Alan Lowrey, Lt. Milton Orellana, Sgt. Megan Coxon, Pfc. Blair Barstar, and Ptl. Calvin Parker all came out to chat with the local community.
Thanks to Hearthstone for hosting, and thanks to everyone who stopped by and shared some Gatorade with us!
A PURR-FECT SITUATION
Earlier in September, Officer Andrew Roberts of Easton Police Department was praised for his work in helping to rescue a kitten in need by Talbot Humane. Talbot Humane shared this message on their social media page to recognize Officer Roberts:
“We want to send a heartfelt thank you to Officer Roberts of the Easton Police Department. A few weeks ago, he came across two tiny kittens in the road. Sadly, one had already been struck by a car, but the other was sickly and needed urgent help.
Thanks to his quick action, that little survivor made it safely to us. We named her “Officer Judy,” and tomorrow she will be heading to her forever home.
Because of Officer Roberts’ compassion and fast response, a life was saved. Our community is stronger when we work together for those who cannot speak for themselves.
Thank you, Officer Roberts, for being a true hero for the animals.”
ROLL ON!
Easton Parks and Recreation, Talbot Thrive team up for Rolling Rodeo
Whether rolling around town, on trails, or out on the county’s country roads, it’s important that kids know the rules of the road and how to keep themselves safe when riding, skateboarding, or skating around traffic.
Through a series of fun, interactive activities on a protected obstacle course, participants will learn how to navigate roadways, understand traffic signals, and practice safe biking techniques. With expert guidance and plenty of encouragement, kids will gain confidence on their wheels and discover the excitement of riding, rolling, and exploring the world around them.
Participants in the event will receive an official Certificate of Completion and a Rolling Rodeo sticker for their helmet or rolling device.
Water and Snacks: Refreshments will be available during the event.
Helmet Giveaway and Fitting: Proper helmet use is crucial for bike safety. Participating kids will be given a FREE,
custom-fitted helmet to take home.
Bike Repair and Check Up: Experts will be available to make sure participants’ bikes are in good operating condition and that tires are properly inflated. Our youngest riders will be helped with learning to balance on a bike.
Community Engagement: Talbot Thrive’s Rolling Rodeo is made possible through the generous support and participation of many community volunteers, including Talbot County Public Schools, the Maryland Highway Safety Office, Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, Easton Utilities, and Building African American Minds.
We invite all Talbot County families to join the festivities and take advantage of this valuable opportunity to enhance their children’s biking skills and safety awareness.
The first Rolling Rodeo will happen on October 18, 2025 at Easton Elementary School from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the Talbot County Resource Fair.
WE HAVE A WINNER!
Congratulations to Christy Spindler for winning the Employee Newsletter Cover Photo Contest!
Christy now has a $25 gift card to Gander’s Car Wash 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!
Rec
Town of Easton partners with Talbot Thrive, YMCA for Run/Walk Club
Talbot Thrive is excited to partner with the Town of Easton Parks and Recreation and the YMCA of the Chesapeake to launch a new Running and Walking Club – a community-driven initiative designed to bring people together in a fun and supportive environment to improve their physical and mental health!
Join us every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Idlewild Park in Easton and walk or run the trail for about an hour to accommodate all fitness levels. Whether you’re looking to start your fitness journey, improve your endurance, or connect with like-minded individuals, this meetup will provide an inclusive space where everyone can THRIVE at their own pace.
Learn more at https://talbotthrive.org/runwalkclub/
Birthdays
OCTOBER
Carol Callahan
Charles Connolly
Elaina Hutchison
Jeffrey Olds
Jennifer Kellner
Greg Mueller
Kyle Hardy
Lorraine Gould
Marvin Jenkins
Michael Epstein
Richard Farr
Robert Rankin
Scott Finch
Shelby Ruf
Anniversaries
OCTOBER
Christopher Westerfield - 12 years
Dustin Otto - 15 years
Garey Fike - 8 years
Lorraine Gould - 20 years
Lynn Thomas - 22 years
Mark Turner - 1 year
Michael Whitby - 15 years
Michael Duenas - 2 years
Nicholas Ewing - 2 years
Ronald Hayman - 12 years
Thomas Diem - 15 years
ZUCCHINI CHICKEN BAKE
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6
2 medium zucchinis
2-3 tomatoes
2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon minced onion
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons smoked paprika avocado oil
1-1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Heat oven to 375 F.
Cut zucchinis, tomatoes and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place in 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle with minced onion, Italian seasoning and paprika then drizzle with avocado oil. Mix well with spoon.
Cover with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes.
ZUCCHIN-EASY Recipe
Summer Veggies Meet Fall Flavor
(Family Features) When September arrives, it’s finally time to dust off those fall recipes. This Zucchini Chicken Bake is a perfect blend of summer veggies and warm, fall flavor, ideal for those hot days that turn into chilly evenings. Visit Culinary.net to find more family recipe inspiration.