Cover Photo by Dawn Hutchison, Purchasing and Grants Clerk.
DANCING TO THE TUNE OF JUNE
Don’t blink now — we’re halfway to 2027!
As the summer sun settles in and temperatures steadily rise, it’s a good excuse to stay inside, put on some tunes, and enjoy your monthly employee newsletter! Buckle up though, at 36 pages this is the largest newsletter we’ve ever had! That means there’s a lot going on around Town, and a lot to be proud of!
We had a healthy dose of recognition this month, with our first responders getting their time to shine at Bluepoint Hospitality’s First Responders Celebration, Public Works Week put a spotlight on the hard work done by our Sanitation, Maintenance, Construction, and Engineering crews, Kathy Ruf, Town Clerk, was celebrated during Municipal Clerks Week, and of course the entire ToE team got to enjoy our employee appreciation breakfast.
Additionally, we saw some major accomplishments, with a ribbon cutting to acknowledge the new play equipment installed at Golton Park, two EPD officers being recognized by local media, and our friends at Easton Utilities accomplishing 100% broadband coverage of Talbot County. There’s impressive work being done almost everywhere you look, and our teams have a hand in almost all of it.
I hope you all stay safe, and keep doing such amazing work throughout the summer. I can’t wait to try and capture it all; hopefully I will remember my sunscreen before heading out.
Greg Mueller
Click HERE to see Billy’s video interview!
Employee Spotlight
BILLY MURDOCH | MAINTENANCE DIVISION MANAGER
Meet Billy Murdoch! Billy serves as a Maintenance Division Manager at our Public Works Department. Billy has been with us for over 3 years now!
In his role as Maintenance Division Manager, Billy is tasked with keeping the Town’s infrastructure and amenities properly maintained throughout the year. This covers everything from keeping up with storm drains, to planting and caring for trees, to caring for the ball fields and play equipment at our parks, and more!
In his free time, Billy enjoys helping out on his friend’s charter fishing boat, as well as playing and coaching lacrosse. Most of all, Billy enjoys spending time with his two daughters — and his youngest just graduated high school!
Town Office
Celebrating all of the on Mother’s Day
MOMS
Town of Easton mothers gathered for a group shot in advance of Mother’s Day.
Pictured (left to right): Christy Spindler, Morgan Christenson, Megan Cook, Lorraine Gould, Jill Sherwood, Michele Bradley, Carolinne Kahane, Laura Diem, Carol Callahan, Bev Williamson, Lauren Dorsch, Dawn Hutchison.
PAR FOR THE COURSE
Disc Golf tees off in Easton with the Ford Park Frenzy
Just last month, John F. Ford Park came alive with excitement, competition, and community spirit during the inaugural Ford Park Frenzy Disc Golf Tournament at John F. Ford Park.
Hosted by Off Course Disc Golf in partnership with the Town of Easton Parks and Recreation Department, the two-day event welcomed players, supporters, and first-time spectators to experience
the growing sport of Disc Golf.
Held on May 2nd and 3rd, the tournament featured a variety of course layouts that challenged players of all skill levels. Competitors tackled combinations of short and long pin placements throughout the weekend, creating a dynamic and competitive atmosphere while showcasing the potential of the future permanent course.
More than just a tournament, the Ford Park Frenzy represented a major step forward in bringing a permanent disc golf course to Easton. Registration fees, sponsorships, and donations throughout the event helped support fundraising efforts for the new course project. Community members and local businesses rallied behind the initiative, helping to make the dream a reality.
A special thank you goes out to Off Course Disc Golf for organizing and hosting such a successful event.
Their team worked tirelessly throughout the weekend to ensure everything ran smoothly while also creating a welcoming environment for new players interested in learning more about the sport. Their passion for disc golf and commitment to community engagement were evident in every aspect of the tournament.
From seasoned competitors to newcomers discovering the sport for the first time, the weekend highlighted the power of recreation to bring people together.
FOR YOUR SERVICE
Bluepoint Hospitality Hosts 6th annual First Responders Celebration
This past month, Bluepoint Hospitality Group hosted its 6th Annual First Responders Celebration in Easton, honoring the men and women who serve and protect communities across Talbot County and the surrounding region.
The ceremony took place at the Service Memorial at Dover and West Streets and recognized representatives from local police, fire, and emergency services agencies for their dedication and sacrifice. Community leaders, public officials, and residents gathered to show their appreciation for the vital role first responders play in keeping the region safe.
The event featured remarks from host Paul Prager,,
Town Council President and Easton Volunteer Fire Department member Don Abbatiello, and keynote speaker Governor Wes Moore. Speakers highlighted the courage, commitment, and selfless service demonstrated daily by first responders throughout the area.
Following the ceremony, attendees enjoyed complimentary Roma Alla Pala pizza and fellowship as part of the celebration and tribute.
We appreciate Bluepoint Hospitality Group for continuing the annual tradition, which has become a meaningful way for the community to recognize and support local first responders whose service and sacrifice often go unseen.
RECREATION CELEBRATION
ToE Hosts Ribbon Cutting for Revitalized Golton Park Playground
Community members, local leaders, and Town staff gathered earlier this week to celebrate the official ribbon cutting for the newly improved playground at Golton Park. The event marked the completion of a significant Parks and Recreation enhancement project designed to provide families and children with a modern, engaging space to play and connect.
The playground improvements were made possible through a $155, 901 Community Parks and Playgrounds Program Grant awarded by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. The upgraded park now features brand-new swings, benches, climbing structures, monkey bars, slides, and interactive play equipment
that will serve residents for years to come.
Town officials expressed their appreciation to everyone who attended the celebration and supported the project throughout its development.
Special recognition was given to Carrie Lhotsky, Associate Director of Land Acquisition and Planning with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources; Michael McQuarrie, Local Grant Administrator with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources; and Kimberly Kratovil, Eastern Shore Regional Director for Senator Alsobrooks, for attending the ribbon cutting ceremony and showing their support for the project.
TEAM PLAYER
“Indispensable” Kathy Ruf celebrated during Municipal Clerks Week
As part of Municipal Clerks Week, celebrated May 3–9, the Town of Easton recognized Town Clerk Kathy Ruf for her outstanding service and dedication to the community.
Kathy has served with the Town of Easton for more than 35 years and remains an essential part of daily municipal operations. In her role as appointed Town Clerk, she manages agendas and records for official Town meetings, attends council meetings, oversees voting procedures, responds to public records requests, prepares legal notices and filings, assists with elections, and much more.
Kathy is an indispensable member of the team whose professionalism and commitment help to keep town operations running smoothly.
Municipal Clerks Week was established in 1969 by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC) to highlight the vital role clerks play in local government. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan officially proclaimed the first full week of May as Municipal Clerks Week.
Thank you, Kathy Ruf, for your hard work, dedication, and continued service to the community!
NOW PRESENTING . . .
Mayor Cook presents FY27 budget to Council
At the May 4 Town Council Meeting, Mayor Cook presented her “State of the Town/FY27 Budget Presentation” to the council and the public. The 40-minute presentation covered all of the “pieces” that come together to make the town successfully operate year after year, highlighting major successes and changes along the way, and looking towards the future.
Several departments were highlighted, and key expenses were discussed to show the costs associated with the important work being done around town. Additionally, partner organizations such as EVFD, Easton EDC, and Easton Utilities were discussed, including how the Town supports, and is supported by them.
Click the image above to see the full presentation, and get a better understanding of how much is happening in Easton!
CONSTRUCTION • MAINTENANCE • SANITATION • ENGINEERING
PUBLIC WORKS Thank you!
PUTTING PUBLIC
Town of Easton
The Town of Easton and dedication of its during National Public the employees who running every day.
The department’s Maintenance, and Sanitation vital role in maintaining and public spaces. Their maintaining streets, collecting garbage and during winter storms,
Public Works
PUTTING THE “WORK” IN PUBLIC WORKS
Easton Public Works Team Shines Bright During National Public Works Week
is recognizing the hard work its Public Works Department Public Works Week, honoring help keep the community
Engineering, Construction, Sanitation Divisions play a maintaining the town’s infrastructure Their responsibilities include sidewalks, and parking lots, and recyclables, clearing snow storms, and supporting beauti -
fication projects throughout Easton, including improvements to parks and the Rails to Trails initiative.
Town Engineer and Director of Public Works Rick Van Emburgh praised the team for their commitment to the community.
“Our Public Works team, including our Engineering, Construction, Maintenance, and Sanitation Divisions, keeps Easton moving every single day,” Van Emburgh said. “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone on this team for their hard work,
dedication, and the pride they take in making Easton better.”
Town officials noted that Public Works employees often work in difficult weather conditions to ensure roads remain safe, public spaces are maintained, and essential services continue uninterrupted.
The Town thanked the entire Public Works staff for their ongoing service and commitment to keeping Easton clean, safe, accessible, and beautiful for residents and visitors alike.
MAKING THEIR MARK
COMPLETING ANOTHER SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION
Our Public Works Construction Team is continuing progress on installing pedestrian push-button crossings at all signalized intersections throughout town. Over the past few weeks, they have been hard at work at the intersection of Harrison and Washington Streets.
In addition to the traffic, the downhill grade and underground utilities have made for some tricky work in this location. Thankfully, our team of Matt Cordrey, Colton Insley, Jake Towers, and Supervisor Justin Conaway has risen to the challenge! They’ve gone underground, pulled the necessary wiring through, and are laying the historic brick sidewalks and ramps back down in accordance with ADA standards.
Great work from this team, and stay tuned for more information on this project!
Things are looking a little more colorful ahead of the First Responders Celebration. the rain earlier that week to bring this space
MARK ALL ACROSS TOWN
THE SERVICE MEMORIAL
behind the Service Memorial at the intersection of Dover and West Streets Celebration. Thank you to our team of Juan Sanchez and Sam Pearson for braving space to life. Great work!
MOSQUITO SPRAYING
Our Public Works team is set to begin its mosquito control measures for 2026. Mosquito control occurs once per week (typically on Fridays) from May until October, ensuring their population stays reasonably low throughout the season.
Each week our teams take a landing count, and if the numbers are high enough they go out and spray late night/early morning (between 11pm and 6am) if the weather and wind conditions permit. We also have a larvicide program to treat catch basins and small ponds to prevent the larvae from becoming adult mosquitos.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
For a detailed explanation of the processes we use, please visit our website at eastonmd.gov/609/Mosquito-Control.
Shout out to Tim Streckfus for handling this program, and keeping it both safe and effective so that we can enjoy our summers mosquito-bite free!
PUBLIC DISCOURSE
Last month, the Easton Town Council hosted a series of Town Hall Discussions at the Easton Firehouse, providing residents with an opportunity to learn more about current and upcoming town initiatives while sharing feedback directly with council leadership.
Held at the Easton Firehouse on Leonard Rieck Drive, the meetings brought together residents from all four wards for open discussions focused on Easton’s future, including topics such as the town’s comprehensive plan, annual budget, and other community projects.
Each ward representative hosted a dedicated session throughout the week discussing topics such as Disc Golf, Road Safety, the Comprehensive Plan, the Town Budget, and more.
Council President Don Abbatiello emphasized the
importance of community participation during the series of meetings.
“There are many decisions facing Easton that will impact the town’s future,” Abbatiello said. “Town hall meetings for each ward help to keep residents informed and receive their input on important issues like the comprehensive plan and the annual budget.”
The town hall format encouraged open dialogue between residents and elected officials, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, voice concerns, and discuss priorities for the community. Officials said the sessions were designed to strengthen communication between the Town Council and Easton residents while ensuring the public remains engaged in local decision-making.
All meetings were free and open to the public.
Easton Town Council Hosts Ward Town Hall Discussions at Easton Firehouse
Easton Police
TESTING THE LIMITS
EPD/Town of Easton Seek Community Input on Trail and Sidewalk Safety
The Easton Police Department and the Town of Easton are asking residents to help shape the future of local trails, sidewalks, and pedestrian safety through a new community survey.
The “Trails & Sidewalks Travel Survey” gives residents an opportunity to share their thoughts and experiences regarding how people move throughout town — whether walking, biking, using scooters, or traveling by e-bike.
Town officials say the feedback gathered will help guide future improvements aimed at making Easton’s streets, sidewalks, and trails safer and more accessible for everyone.
The survey includes questions about a variety of transportation and safety topics, includ -
ing: Safe bike usage, Speed limits, E-bikes, E-scooters, Pedestrian safety, Trail and sidewalk accessibility, and more.
Community participation is encouraged, as officials hope to gather broad input from residents of all ages and travel habits.
Public feedback is an essential piece as we continue working to improve safety and connectivity throughout Easton.
Interested parties can take the survey online at: https://engage.eastonmd.gov/trails-and-sidewalks-travel
The Town encourages everyone to participate and help shape the future of Easton’s pedestrian and trail systems.
Easton Utilities
FULLY CONNECTED
MD DHCD Announces Talbot County Reaches 100% High-Speed Internet Access through Easton Utilities’ Connect Talbot Program
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development announced today that Talbot County has become the first county in Maryland where 100% of locations now have access to highspeed internet.
The milestone was achieved through the completion of the Connect Talbot project by Easton Utilities, which expanded broadband access to more than 2,700 eligible locations across the county using a fiber-to-the-home network.
“This achievement by Talbot County and Easton Utilities signals major progress towards the MooreMiller Administration’s objective to connect all Marylanders to high-speed Internet by 2030,” said Secretary Jake Day. “Through sustained, coordinated investment and strong intergovernmental partnerships, the Office of Statewide Broadband is delivering results that make a real difference in the daily lives of Marylanders.”
Since 2021, Easton Utilities and Talbot County have received more than $10 million in federal and state funding through Maryland’s Office of Statewide Broadband to support broadband expansion.
“We are so proud to be part of this project and to support Easton Utilities as they continue to go above and beyond for our community,” said Easton Mayor Megan Cook. “Connect Talbot extends the vital resource of broadband access throughout our region, connecting our rural neighbors across the county to a faster network and enriching their quality of life.”
Maryland’s Connect Maryland initiative works with local governments and private providers to expand broadband infrastructure statewide. Since 2017, the Office of Statewide Broadband has invested more than $270 million to bring high-speed Internet access to more than 180,000 previously unserved homes and businesses.
BALANCED BREAKFAST
HR hosts quarterly Employee Appreciation Breakfast
The Town of Easton recently hosted another successful quarterly employee appreciation breakfast, recognizing the dedication and teamwork of employees across the organization.
“Today’s quarterly employee appreciation breakfast again celebrates the dedication, teamwork, and commitment that drives our success every day,” said Chief Human Resource Officer Rick Farr. “The hard work, positive attitude, and willingness to go above and beyond continue to make a meaningful impact to the Town of Easton and the people we serve. This event is a small token of gratitude for our employees’ contributions, professionalism, and for helping
create a culture of excellence. We are very proud to recognize and appreciate our dedicated staff.”
Employees enjoyed a delicious breakfast prepared by The Omelette Guys, featuring made-to-order omelets, Belgian waffles, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, and fresh coffee.
The event also provided an opportunity for employees from departments across the organization to connect and interact with one another in a relaxed setting. Town officials extended special thanks to the Human Resources team for organizing another memorable and well-received event.
ALL PART OF THE PLAN
Stakeholders Meeting Highlights Progress on Easton’s Complete Streets Manual
The Town of Easton recently hosted a stakeholder meeting to showcase the progress being made on its Complete Streets Manual and Safety Action Plan, an important initiative aimed at creating safer and more accessible transportation networks throughout the community.
The meeting was led by Town Engineer Rick Van Emburgh and Larry Marcus of Forward Progress. Attendees were given an overview of the project, including the goals of the Complete Streets Manual, the planning process, and the key steps involved in developing the final document.
In addition to the presentation, participants engaged in a series of interactive workshop scenarios designed to encourage discussion and collaboration. Small groups reviewed real-world street and intersection examples, identified potential safety concerns, and explored improvements that could make these areas safer for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists.
The stakeholder ductive event, providing help strengthen building local support
The insights gathered as the Town continues another significant important project.
The event brought together a diverse group of local stakeholders representing organizations such as Talbot County Public Schools (TCPS), Talbot Thrive, Talbot County Department of Police Department,
PLAN
and Safety Action Plan
NOMINATION CONGRATULATIONS
Chief Lowrey, PFC Proctor Nominated for “Best of Awards” Emergency Services (DES), the Easton Department, and other community partners.
stakeholder meeting was a successful and proproviding valuable feedback that will strengthen the Complete Streets Manual while support for its implementation.
gathered will play an important role continues moving forward and takes significant step toward completing this project.
Congratulations to EPD Chief Alan Lowrey and PFC Cordero Proctor for being nominated for Coastal Style Magazine’s “Best of Dorchester/Talbot 2026” awards!
Chief Lowrey has been nominated for “Public Safety Official of the Year,” and Officer Proctor has been nominated for “Officer of the Year.”
We’re grateful to see both of them receive this well-earned recognition, and hope they take home top honors in their categories.
Voting on the contest has wrapped up, and winners for each category will be announced on September 1. Best of luck Officer Proctor and Chief Lowrey!
Congratulations to Dustin Otto for winning the Employee Newsletter Cover Photo Contest!
Dustin now has a $25 gift card to Doc’s Downtown Grille for his submission that landed on the May 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
Human Resources
Birthdays
JUNE
Michele Bradley
Andrew Griffith
Ronald Hayman
Ryan Heckler
Alan Lowrey
Joshua Merrick
Scott Messick
Billy Murdoch
Samuel Pearson
Nancy Pinkney
Justin Reibly
Ray Rodgers
Kathy Ruf
Timothy Tarrant
Craig Tatum
Bushy Thomas
Anniversaries
JUNE
Marleni Baltazar-Aguilar - 3 years
Cody Bland - 8 years
Michele Bradley - 1 year
Frank Creegan - 25 years
Ronald Dixon - 18 years
Joseph Faulkner - 11 years
Susan Filbird - 27 years
Heather Hanson - 18 years
Justin Jones - 12 years
Carolinne Kahane - 6 years
Jon Mcdougald - 18 years
Christopher Mueller - 3 years
Harry Murphy - 18 years
Tyrell Pierce - 19 years
Cordero Proctor - 4 years
Kaylan Rinehimer - 10 years
Aaron Sadberry - 4 years
Michael Salinas - 4 years
Joseph Schinault - 14 years
Renthia Thomas - 12 years
Joshua Turner - 2 years
Michael Young - 16 years
STRIPPED DOWN PERFECTION
A succulently seared staple to serve the family
A seared strip loin with linguini is the kind of dish that brings together comfort and refinement in one plate. Perfectly seared steak delivers rich, savory flavor while tender linguini provides a smooth, satisfying base that pairs beautifully with garlic, butter, herbs, or a light cream sauce. The contrast between the hearty beef and delicate pasta creates a balanced entrée that feels both elegant and approachable.
Whether served for a date night dinner, special occasion, or elevated weeknight meal, this recipe highlights simple ingredients prepared with care. A golden crust on the strip loin adds depth and texture, while the linguini absorbs the flavors of the sauce for a cohesive, restaurant-style experience. The result is a flavorful, satisfying dish that is sure to impress without being overly complicated to prepare.
SEARED STRIP LOIN WITH LINGUINI
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
1 Strip Loin Steak (6-8 ounces)
1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus additional to taste, divided 1 box (16 ounces) linguini
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups chopped fennel
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/3 cup chopped Castelvetrano (green) olives
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 orange, zest and juice only
1 goat cheese log (4 ounces)
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish pepper, to taste
Pat steak dry and season generously with kosher salt. Heat grill pan or grill to medium-high heat. Grill steak until medium-rare (135-140 F), turning halfway through cooking, about 8 minutes total. Set aside.
Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguini according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining linguini in colander.
In same pasta pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook fennel, red pepper flakes and 1 teaspoon kosher salt over medium heat, stirring, until fennel is tender, 5-6 minutes. Add chopped olives, garlic and orange zest. Stir in orange juice and stir to combine. Set aside.
Return drained linguini to pot. Crumble goat cheese on top and add reserved pasta water. Stir until pasta is evenly coated.
Serve with slices of steak on top and garnish with fresh parsley.