June 4, 2026 – 6:00 PM
Town Hall, East New Market, Maryland
Call to Order
Chairman and Mayor Gary Lucks called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM and welcomed committee members and guests. The meeting focused on preparations for the Fourth of July Celebration, Summer Movie Nights, Farmers Market operations, and updates on community improvement projects.
Approval of Previous Minutes
A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to accept the previous meeting minutes as presented.
Treasurer’s Report
Michelle Jackson reported that the May Treasurer’s Report was pending due to a missing bank statement. Once received, the report will be finalized and distributed electronically to committee members for review.
Fourth of July Celebration Planning
Mayor Lucks reported that the Maryland State Police Aviation Unit and Color Guard have confirmed participation. The Color Guard will present the colors promptly at 11:00 a.m. Buddy Bloom will provide music, perform the National Anthem, and announce parade winners. A five-member Civil War reenactment group with an operational cannon has committed to attend. The East New Market Volunteer Fire Department has confirmed participation and is assisting with overflow parking planning. Representatives from the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center will provide an educational exhibit. Pending confirmations include participation from the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, final helicopter arrival schedules, water slide setup timing, and additional overflow parking arrangements.
The committee discussed transportation options for visitors and agreed to explore the use of golf carts from Preston Ford to shuttle attendees from parking areas to Friendship Park, with particular consideration for senior citizens and those with mobility limitations.
Youth Parade Planning
The committee continued planning for the inaugural Youth Parade. Participants will be encouraged to decorate bicycles, golf carts, Gators, and four-wheelers. The parade will stage at the Train Station and begin immediately after the Color Guard presentation at approximately 11:10–11:15 a.m. The committee agreed that all registration forms and promotional materials should include safety expectations and behavior standards. Organizers reserve the right to remove participants displaying unsafe operation of vehicles or inappropriate behavior.
Shelly will finalize the parade flyer and include a QR code linking to a Google registration form. Registration opportunities will also be available through physical sign-up sheets at the Post Office and other community bulletin boards.
Potential award categories include Best Bicycle, Best Golf Cart, Best Four-Wheeler, Most Patriotic, Most Creative, Most Colorful, and Funniest Entry. Bonnie Powell agreed to research trophies and medal options. Awards will be presented near the bleachers immediately following the parade.
Food Vendors and Concessions
The committee reviewed outreach efforts to TD Fusion, Mad Hatter, Jahi’s, Jelly Belly Ice Cream, pit beef vendors, and additional food truck operators. Members discussed the need for stronger vendor communication and attendance expectations. If food truck participation is limited, the committee may operate a concession stand offering bottled water, chips, candy, and pre-packaged snacks. Complimentary bottled water for attendees was also discussed.
Decorations and Community Beautification
Mayor Lucks reported that Jeff from Johnny’s Tavern donated approximately 120 American flags and poles. The committee plans to install flags on approximately 110 light poles throughout town.
Brackets will be painted black before installation, and the project is expected to be completed by July 1. Members agreed that Jeff and Johnny’s Tavern should receive public recognition for their generous contribution.
The committee also discussed patriotic goodie bags for children, event tent improvements, and the possibility of securing an Uncle Sam character for public interaction and photographs. Town Hall exterior painting is scheduled before the holiday celebration.
Summer Movie Nights
The first movie night attracted approximately eighteen families despite cold and windy weather conditions. Concession sales exceeded $180, and glow products were particularly popular. A malfunction with the projector’s built-in DVD player required use of an external DVD player. Thecommittee agreed to test all equipment before future events and maintain backup systems. The next movie night is scheduled for June 13 featuring Lilo & Stitch with a rain date of June 19.
Farmers Market Update
Several new craft vendors are expected to participate in upcoming markets. Reliable produce vendors continue to include Triangle Acres, Marblehead Farms, and Brett’s Produce. The bakery vendor continues to sell out consistently. Members reported that relocating vendors closer to the front of the market significantly improved visibility, attendance, and sales. The committee reaffirmed its preference for locally grown produce and locally sourced products.
Town Projects and Infrastructure Updates
The amphitheater grant application remains under review with no negative feedback received to date. The walking trail project has received preliminary approval pending additional state reviews. Members agreed to begin gathering paving estimates for the trail, parking lot, and driveways. Construction is not expected before September 2026.
The committee discussed a low-hanging Delmarva Power line and overgrown vegetation located on nearby gas company property. Letters have been sent requesting corrective action. Committee members thanked Edwin Ramos for coordinating follow-up efforts.
AdjournmentThere being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:25 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Michelle Jackson, Clerk-Treasurer
Approved By:
Gary R. Lucks, Mayor and Chairman, Events Committee