What started out as a hobby of flying drones and taking photos has now become Chestertown resident Sam Shoge’s new business: Shore Studios.

The newly-formed Talbot County Department of Economic Development and Tourism has announced Sam Shoge of Chestertown will be its economic development coordinator.

Talbot County has merged its offices of economic development and tourism to form a single department, and with the realignment, two new county staffers are coming on board under the new Department of Economic Development and Tourism. Samuel Shoge joined the department as economic development coordinator on Wednesday, Nov. 16.

“Just say ‘Hi.’” Those simple words can be the key to breaking down barriers, Chestertown Councilman Sam Shoge said at the annual Janes Church Black History program Saturday, Feb. 13.

Sam Shoge’s presentation, “Liberal Arts Transcending,” focused on how a powerful education is lifelong and can show someone how to best give back to the community.

The Chestertown council, meeting Tuesday, Feb. 18, discussed plans to meet with merchants in the C1 commercial zones, including the two shopping centers. Mayor Chris Cerino has announced several such meetings, each with a group of merchants who are under the same zoning designation. The C1 meeting is the first.

Ward 3 Councilman Sam Shoge says Chestertown’s elected officials need to connect with the black community — and not just when they’re stumping for votes.

The Diversity Dialogue Group, meeting Monday, Jan. 13, discussed ways to promote the African American walking tour of Chestertown created by members of the group in cooperation with the Historical Society of Kent County.

Vince and Viv of Vandam are more than bandmates — they’re twin siblings. We talked to them about what it’s like to work with family.