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May 8, 2025

Chestertown Spy

Nonpartisan and Education-based News for Chestertown

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Kent Attainable Housing Celebrates Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New Homeowners, the Duncan Family

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Kent Attainable Housing, Inc. (KAH) proudly welcomed the Duncan family to their new home at a joyful ribbon cutting ceremony held on Sunday, April 27th at 204 N. College Avenue, Chestertown, MD.

The event marked a major milestone for both KAH’s Future Homeowners Program and the Duncan family, who are now first-time homeowners thanks to the organization’s mission to make affordable homeownership a reality for working families. Volunteers, partners, and supporters attended the celebration to honor the hard work and dedication that made this dream possible.

In an emotional moment, a member of the Duncan family shared:

“I would have never become a homeowner if it weren’t for Kent Attainable Housing. My mother and I are so happy now.”

The ribbon cutting highlighted the life-changing impact of affordable homeownership and the incredible collaboration between community members, donors, and KAH’s team.

“The Duncan Family turned this house into a home”, mentioned Terwana Brown, Director of Programs at Kent Attainable Housing. “Heather worked very hard to achieve this goal. Their warm welcome and invitation to tour the house were filled with gratitude. Their story of life hurdles is speckled with tough times, but they hung in there and never gave up.”

In addition to celebrating this milestone, Kent Attainable Housing is excited to announce that site preparations have begun for two future homes on Prospect Street. These modular homes are expected to be delivered and set within the month. More details will be shared soon on KAH’s social media channels and through the organization’s newsletter. To stay updated on these upcoming projects and other news, sign up for the Kent Attainable Housing newsletter at kentattainablehousing.org.

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Kent County and Main Street Chestertown Awarded Grants to Support America’s 250th Semiquincentennial Planning

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The Kent County Department of Economic and Tourism Development and Main Street Chestertown are proud to announce that they have been selected as recipients of two planning grants and one staffing grant from MDTwoFifty, Maryland’s State agency commissioned to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026.

These grants will enable Kent County and Chestertown to begin early-stage planning, community engagement, and program development for the Semiquincentennial — a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reflect on the nation’s founding.

Two grant awards are strategically directed to community engagement activities and will be administered by the Kent County Department of Economic and Tourism Development. The third will support personnel at Main Street Chestertown to help coordinate and plan a year-long local celebration of the roles Kent County and Chestertown played in our nation’s history.

“Receiving these grants marks an exciting step toward building inclusive, meaningful programs that highlight our community’s unique contributions to the American story,” said Jamie Williams, Director of Kent County Economic and Tourism Development. “We’re thrilled to work in collaboration with Main Street Chestertown and partners across the County to celebrate this significant milestone in America’s story.

Sonia Huntzinger, Executive Director of Main Street Chestertown added, “The 250th offers a powerful moment to celebrate our historic downtown and share the stories that define our local identity. With this grant, we can start planning events, exhibits, and placemaking efforts that will bring residents and visitors together.”

The Semiquincentennial, also known as America 250, will be celebrated nationwide in 2026. The initiative encourages communities to reflect on the nation’s past, honor diverse histories, and imagine a vibrant future for generations to come.

The Kent County Department of Economic and Tourism Development and Main Street Chestertown encourage community members, historians, artists, educators, and local leaders to get involved as planning moves forward.

Stay connected to America’s 250th Celebration by visiting www.KentMD250.org often.

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Kent County Local Management Board Seeks New Board Members

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The Kent County Local Management Board brings public agencies, non-profits, and residents together to create goals for supporting children and families and to decide on funding priorities in our county.

Invest in Kids

KCLMB’s work prioritizes student mental health, family economic mobility, and school attendance. To address our priorities, the Board funds Minary’s Dream Academy after school program at KCMS, the Beyond Your Mental peer mentoring program at KCHS, Healthy Families, a home visiting program for new parents, and Hip-Hop Time Capsule, a paid summer internship with Washington College. The next five-year plan will be tied to specific neighborhoods and communities and is currently under development. Also new in 2025, KCLMB will be seeking proposals and awarding funds from the County’s share of Maryland’s adult-use cannabis tax revenue.

Serving on the Board

Simply fill out the on-line form (www.kentcounty.com/committees/interestform) or call 410-810-2673 to apply. Board members serve three-year terms for two total terms. All applications are reviewed by the Board and approved by the Kent County Commissioners.

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Chamber Hosts Post-Legislative Session Discussion with 36th District Lawmakers

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Pictured from left to right: Moderator Tom Eleuterio, Senator Steve Hershey, Delegate Steve Arentz, Executive Director Sarah King, Delegate Jeff Ghrist, and Delegate Jay Jacobs.

On Wednesday, April 23, the Kent County Chamber of Commerce welcomed legislators from Maryland’s 36th District for a Post-Legislative Session Discussion at Heron Point in Chestertown. The event provided local residents, business owners, and community leaders an opportunity to engage directly with elected officials about the outcomes of the 2025 Maryland General Assembly session.

Chamber Executive Director Sarah King opened the forum with a recap of several issues relevant to Kent County, including the 18-month delay of the Maryland Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program, the status of the Kent County Middle School cost-sharing bill (which passed the Senate but stalled in the House), and the projected local financial impact of The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future (Kirwan).

Tom Eleuterio moderated a robust panel discussion with Senator Steve Hershey, Delegate Jay Jacobs, Delegate Steve Arentz, and Delegate Jeff Ghrist, who shared legislative updates and fielded questions from attendees. Topics included:

  • Expanding the Sales Tax on Services: Legislators discussed a new 3% sales tax on select technology-related services aimed at addressing the state’s $3.3 billion budget shortfall. The expansion could directly affect over 15,000 employers and 99,000 jobs statewide, with broader implications across Maryland’s economy.
  • Energy Legislation: A trio of bills—the Renewable Energy Certainty Act, the Next Generation Energy Act, and the Energy Resource Adequacy and Planning Act—were passed to fast-track renewable energy infrastructure, particularly solar. These laws mandate local governments to approve compliant solar projects and incentivize battery storage and nuclear Residential electric customers may see rebates of up to $80 next year.
  • State Budget Update: Lawmakers reflected on the FY2026 budget, and the difficulties they experienced this year trying to create a balanced budget. The Legislators noted growing uncertainty in the state’s fiscal landscape, while potential cuts in federal education funding are emerging adding pressure to already strained state resources.

“The conversation was insightful, informative, and vital for anyone doing business or living in Kent County,” said Sarah King. “We thank our legislators for their continued engagement and leadership, and Heron Point for providing such a welcoming venue.”

The Kent County Chamber of Commerce remains committed to keeping members informed and connected on matters of policy and progress that affect the local business community.

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2025‐2026 Rock Hall Lions Marine Trades offers $1500 Scholarship

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Purpose: To provide tuition assistance to individuals seeking a career in Marine Trades in Kent County, Maryland in conjunction with:

  1. Chesapeake Community College
  2. American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) in person or online technical training
  3. A marine trade school, college, or courses for the marine trades as approved by the Scholarship Committee

This scholarship program is aimed at individuals who reflect a true commitment to converting their talents by working with their hands into a career as a professional in the marine trades industry.

This scholarship program is available to all residents of Kent County, Maryland, who are currently enrolled and set to graduate in the 2025 academic year from a Kent County public or private school, or who previously graduated from a Kent County public or private school. It is also open to Kent County, Maryland residents who previously obtained or are set to obtain a GED in 2025.

Applicants must meet all admissions requirements for their chosen trade school or college, in addition to the criteria outlined below in to be eligible to apply. Requirements include:

  • Be able to show proof of residency in Kent County,
  • Be able to redeem the scholarship and start classes prior to May 31,
  • Is committed to employment at a Kent County, Maryland marina or marine business for one
  • Successfully complete the Rock Hall Lions Club Application and Interview

During your interview please be prepared to answer questions such as the following:

  • What has inspired you to seek a career in the marine trades industry?
  • Why have you chosen a marine trade as your career?
  • How will attending your chosen courses help you achieve your specific career goals?

This scholarship program is available to applicants starting April 1, 2025 through May 31, 2025. Students must complete an application and submit it to the Rock Hall Lions Scholarship Committee. For all applicants, the deadline for receipt of the application by the Rock Hall Lions Scholarship Committee is Wednesday, May 31, 2025.

All eligible applications and interviews will be reviewed by the Rock Hall Lions Scholarship Committee, and one (1) scholarship will be awarded no later than June 13, 2025.

This scholarship is ONLY available to students who attend or have attended a public or private school in Kent County, Maryland or are residents of Kent County, Maryland who are obtaining or have obtained a GED.

Only one scholarship will be awarded. Residents who apply and meet all requirements will be considered for this scholarship. Of those viable applications, the scholarship will be awarded to the applicant who most clearly expresses commitment to success in the marine trades industry through a personal interview with the Scholarship Committee. All applications will be reviewed by the Rock Hall Lions Scholarship Committee.

The scholarship awarded is not transferable to any other person. This award is considered an internal tuition reduction and has no cash value. All internal tuition reductions are pro‐rated over the time a student is in school. If a student chooses to withdraw prior to the deadline or, after beginning their program chooses to leave for any reason (withdrawal, suspended, terminated), they will forfeit any unused portion of the award. Scholarship monies will be disbursed directly to approved schools/courses and not to the individual student.

The Rock Hall Lions, part of the global Lions Clubs International (LCI), are committed to educational and work communities that are free from prohibited discrimination and harassment. The LCI prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation/gender identity or expression, genetic information, and any other legally protected status in the provision of its courses, programs, services, or activities.

Admissions Representatives may not provide any guidance beyond general information about the availability of this scholarship and must refer prospective students to the Rock Hall Lions for more detailed information on the application process and qualifying criteria.

Funding for this program is limited, and the program may be suspended at any time at the Rock Hall Lions’ discretion. Such a suspension will not affect awards to students who are awarded a scholarship under this program prior to the suspension date.

Scholarship Application Request:

  • Email [email protected]and request a 2025 Rock Hall Lions Marine Trades Scholarship
  • Visit https://bit.ly/4ch0awJ to download the application documents or use the QR code
  • Email completed application to [email protected]
  • Submitcompleted application to:

Rock Hall Lions Club Scholarship Committee PO Box 285

Rock Hall, Maryland 21661

The deadline for receipt of the application by the Rock Hall Lions Scholarship Committee is May 31, 2025.

 

 

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Kent County’s META Program Welcomes New Cohort of Entrepreneurs

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The Upper Shore Community Development Partners (USCDP), in partnership with the Town of Chestertown, proudly welcomes the newest cohort of entrepreneurs to the Minority Entrepreneurship Training Accelerator (META) program. This transformative initiative, hosted at Washington College’s Starr Center for the Study of the American Experience and Innovation Plant, empowers local business owners with the skills, resources, and connections to grow and sustain their ventures.

The 2025 cohort represents a diverse range of businesses, each bringing unique products and services to Kent County and beyond:

  • Jayne Barrett-Freeman, Jab Cab, LLC – A transportation service focused on accessibility and convenience.

  • Taccorra Rena Graves, Crafteebabe Kreationz – A creative brand specializing in handcrafted goods.

  • Danielle Latricia Barrett, Bee Well Apothecary – A holistic wellness business offering natural remedies and self-care products.

  • Rashawn Donté Bennett, Food Truck – A mobile eatery bringing flavorful, on-the-go dining experiences.

  • Vanessa Holloway-Truxon, Agribusiness – A venture dedicated to sustainable farming and agricultural innovation.

  • Carlene Louise Wilson, C and M Décor and Design, LLC – A home décor and design company crafting beautiful living spaces.

  • Kay L Brown, K’s Hot Dogs– A mobile food service offering quick and delicious bites.

The META program provides participants with expert-led training, mentorship, and access to essential business resources. META is thrilled to welcome Deayna Ewell, an experienced entrepreneur, the owner of Onyx Beauty Supply, and member of the inaugural META cohort in Queen Anne’s county, as a co-facilitator, to share her experiences and provide insights to the cohort.

“We are excited to support this talented group of business owners,” said Rebecca Murphy, Lead Consultant at USCDP. “META is designed to provide a solid foundation for entrepreneurs to thrive, and we are grateful to the Town of Chestertown and Washington College’s Starr Center and Innovation Plant for generously supporting this impactful program.”

“The Starr Center and Innovation Plant are incredibly proud to support this important initiative and to have partnered with USCDP and the Town of Chestertown,” said Patrick Nugent, the Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. Director of Civic Engagement at Washington College. “We seek to catalyze economic and educational opportunities in our region, and this is a perfect example of how we partner with others to make that happen.”

META is a key initiative in strengthening economic development and fostering business success in Kent County. Through strategic partnerships and community support, this program continues to be a catalyst for minority-owned businesses in the region.

For more information about the META program or to learn how to support local entrepreneurs, contact [email protected].

About Upper Shore Community Development Partners (USCDP)

Upper Shore Community Development Partners (USCDP) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit community development corporation whose mission is to advance equity in housing, entrepreneurship, and job placement for the underrepresented on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

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National Vietnam War Veterans Day March 29

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National Vietnam War Veterans Day will be commemorated on Saturday, March 29 from 2-3pm in Memorial Park.

Veterans who served on active duty anywhere in the world from 1955 to 1975 are invited to be recognized for their service and sacrifice.

 

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Employment: Kent County Chamber Deputy Executive Director sought

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JOB DESCRIPTION

The role of this position is to ensure the effective operation of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce office. This individual must be both detail-oriented and customer service focused in order to ensure the effective internal operations of the Kent Chamber. As the first contact for members and the community, the Deputy Executive Director will work to maintain a welcoming environment both in person and through electronic communication.

This role is a part-time, salaried position – $34,000 per year at 28 hours per week.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Responsible for all incoming phone calls, postal, and electronic
  • Answer general and specific questions regarding the Chamber, staff, board/executive, events, and
  • Maintain the membership database and online directory to ensure all information is accurate and
  • Bill and process monthly membership payments within the membership management
  • Provide support to the executive director when asked for
  • Create and manage email communications in Constant
  • Prepare sales and new member kits and ensure all materials are current and
  • Coordinate all aspects of meetings and in-house events—set up, tear down, table arrangement,
  • Perform administrative function at Board of Directors meetings by maintaining meeting minutes and distributing to the board of directors prior to
  • Maintain an excellent working relationship with members and
  • Promote the Chamber and be a positive brand
  • Manage Chamber website, marketing and social media
  • Attend community events/meetings on behalf of the Chamber

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Excellent public relations/customer service skills,
  • Professional demeanor and presentation of self,
  • Ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people and organizations,
  • Self-motivated and driven with the ability to execute at a high level with minimal supervision,
  • Advanced proficiency in Canva, marketing, and social media platforms,
  • Expertise in QuickBooks,
  • Experience with CRM software preferred,
  • Experience with Squarespace preferred,
  • Must have/maintain a dependable vehicle

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Submit resume and cover letter to [email protected] by 5 pm on March 31, 2025.

ABOUT THE KENT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 The mission of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce is to strengthen, support and promote the economic vitality of our member businesses and the community of Kent County through positive connections, business growth, community engagement, and collaborative advocacy.

 

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KC Democratic Central Committee seeks membership applicants

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The Kent County Democratic Central Committee will appoint two members to reach its full membership of five men and five women, pursuant to articles III and X of the Maryland Democratic Party by-laws. To achieve gender balance, one of the appointees will be female and one will be male. Qualified applicants will be residents of Kent County Maryland, registered Democrats, and willing to volunteer considerable time to support the Party and its candidates. Appointed members are afforded equal status to elected members.

The Kent County Democratic Central Committee meets on the first Tuesday of each month at our headquarters, 357 High Street, Chestertown. In addition to regular meeting attendance, members are expected to participate in campaign, outreach, and fundraising activities, and attend quarterly meetings of the Maryland Democratic Party. Members serve a four-year term ending November 2, 2026 and are periodically required to fill vacancies in elected and appointed offices.

Interested applicants should submit their resume and a brief statement of why they are interested in joining the Central Committee to Mel Rapelyea, Chair, at [email protected], no later than March 31, 2025. The Committee will review all applications and vote on nominees on April 1, 2025.

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Chestertown Earth Day Festival April 26

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This year Chestertown Environmental Club (CEC) on April 26 will be hosting its15th Anniversary of Chestertown Earth Day!  This event has grown in popularity each year and this year we expect the largest attendance ever.

Events planned for this year include live entertainment, a volunteer trashwalk, children’s activities, along with a large EV vehicle and EV bike section.

The festival will be held from 9am to 1pm at park Row,  downt0wn Chestertown.

Last year we had 26 vendor booths setup and we expect more this year. Many of the vendors are local restaurants and shops. Chestertown Natural Food Store, Modern Stone Age Kitchen, Unity Nursery and Twigs & Teacups, just to name a few will be displaying their environmental merchandise and discussing best practices.

DNR Forest Service, Eastern Neck Wildlife Refuge, Center for the Environment & Society, ShoreRivers, Sultana Foundation and Shore Soils (local composting collection) will be there to educate the public on what they are doing to help the environment.

There will also be a number of solar, geothermal, and energy companies in attendance.

Last year Capital Electric gave away hundreds of LED light bulbs.  Bartlett Trees and DNR also gave away hundreds of tree starters (I have 15 of their river birch trees growing in my backyard).  The Master Gardeners will be giving away seeds and Ford Schumann (previously head of Infinity Recycling) will be teaching people how to compost and giving away a backyard composter.

One of the WC fraternities is hosting a pancake breakfast at nearby at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, so there will be food available to purchase.  Donations go to WC.

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