Easton, Md. –February 19, 2025 Waterfowl Festival Inc. proudly welcomes longstanding volunteer and carver Ernie Burns to the Board of Directors.
Ernie Burns was born into an Eastern Shore farming family. As a child he explored the land and water, hunted and fished, and learned the art of wildfowl carving from his parents, Ed and Esther Burns. With them he visited the very first Waterfowl Festival and has attended and/or volunteered at every Festival since.
“Tradition, art, and family are values that we celebrate at the Waterfowl Festival.” remarked Executive Director Deena Kilmon. “Burns, with his life-long passion and mulit-generational family volunteer history will bring a deep passion and solid understanding of the festival’s mission and vision. We are excited to have him take a leadership role and help shape the festival’s future.”
Burns has worked as an educator for over two decades with Talbot County Public Schools and is a graduate of the University of Maryland College Park and Johns Hopkins University. Burns lives on West Sherwood Farms, his family farm, located outside Bozman, Maryland. Ernie continues to create bird and duck sculptures in the studio that inspires him and serves on the scholarship and carving committees for the Waterfowl Festival.
Easton, Md. –February 19, 2025 Waterfowl Festival Inc. have recently welcomed Austin Durrer to their Boards of Directors.
“As our organization continues to grow, we are pleased to announce the addition of Austin to our team. Austin was a key member of our volunteer core last fall, chairing two separate committees and supporting our operations downtown.” remarked executive director Deena Kilmon. “The magic of the festival and its longevity depend on enthusiastic and committed volunteers like Austin.”
Over his 20 years working in the federal government and in national politics, Austin has served as Chief of Staff for multiple Congressmembers on Capitol Hill, in the Executive Branch, and as campaign manager for a major statewide campaign. Through this experience, Austin has developed exceptional relationships, knowledge, political expertise and the ability to develop and communicate complex issues designed to advance client interests at the federal, state and local levels. As a partner at Moran Global Strategies, a leading government relations consulting firm, Austin is an expert on the appropriations process, focused on the defense technology sector.
Austin splits his time between Washington D.C. and the Eastern Shore of Maryland, where he raises his daughter Campbell. In his spare time, he trains for triathlons, is a member of the local C3 Cycling Club, an avid outdoorsman, nonfiction fan, and pulls for his alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also was awarded an MBA from Johns Hopkins University.
Image: Austin Durrer
About Waterfowl Festival Inc.
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
The 54th annual festival will be held November 14-16, 2025. For more information on being an exhibitor, volunteer, or corporate partner, please contact executive director Deena Kilmon, or call 410-822-4567. Website: waterfowlfestival.org
Easton, MD – February 1, 2025 – The Waterfowl Festival and the Maryland State Arts Council, is pleased to announce that ten volunteers were recognized this year at the annual volunteer appreciation party as follows:
Richard Allison – For Music Direction at the 2024 Festival
Daniel Ketelsen – Artifacts Support Chairman – 2023 and 2024
Dennis Cassidy & Archie Tinelli – Bus and Logistics Chairman – 2024
Jon Walzack – Calling Contest Support Chairman, 2024
Christine Spears & Carrie Spears – Special recognition for year-round festival administration and office support, 2024-2025
Eric Milhollan – President, 2024
“For over fifty years, the Waterfowl Festival counts on the support of hundreds of volunteers to help us create an incredible event for the community.” remarked Deena Kilmon, Executive Director. “These ten outstanding individuals were honored this year in recognition of their passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our organization.”
The Waterfowl Festival Award was presented this year along with a custom sterling silver goose pendant provided by community partner, Nelson Coleman. The event, held at the iconic Waterfowl Festival building in historic downtown Easton, was catered by 4 Dogs Brewing Co. and attended by well over two hundred volunteers. The event was sponsored in part by PNC, The Ward Foundation, Guyette & Deeter, Ducks Unlimited, Pella, Eastern Shore Tents and Events, The Tidewater Inn, and Coastal Style.
Interested community members are encouraged to reach out to find out how to volunteer for this year’s event, being held November 14-16, 2025, by emailing or calling 410-822-4567. Student volunteers will receive service hours and may be eligible for the William A. Perry Scholarship after completing specific requirements. The fund has awarded over $100,000 in grants to college students since 2015.
Images: Outgoing President Eric Milhollan and 2025 President Julie Susman; Katie Ewers, Julie Susman and Louise Perry.
About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy. Website: waterfowlfestival.org
Easton, MD — Waterfowl Festival 2025: Call for Artists and Exhibitors
Easton, Maryland – January 21, 2025 – The Waterfowl Festival is excited to announce that applications for artists and exhibitors are now open for the 2025 event, scheduled for November 14-16, 2025.
We invite painters, sculptors, carvers, and photographers specializing in waterfowl, wildlife, landscapes, sporting art, and maritime subjects to apply. All displayed work must be available for sale. New artist applications should include 5 to 10 digital images representative of the artwork intended for exhibition. Artwork for sale must have been created within two years of the festival date. Please ensure high-quality images, as they are crucial for the jurying process.
Notification of Acceptance: Artists will begin to be notified by the end of April if they are accepted into the exhibition.
For information about the application process, please reach out to our office via email or call 410-822-4567.
Image: Art Gallery at Waterfowl Festival/Courtesy Ron Haddaway
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About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
[Easton, MD] – December 9, 2024 – Waterfowl Festival Donates 53 Years of Festival Guidebooks to Talbot County Free Library
Easton, MD — In celebration of over five decades of community involvement and environmental stewardship, the Waterfowl Festival is excited to announce a significant donation to the Talbot County Free Library: a complete collection of guidebooks from the festival’s 53-year history. These guidebooks, available for public use, chronicle the rich heritage, artistry, and conservation efforts that have made the Waterfowl Festival a beloved tradition in the Chesapeake Bay region.
The guidebooks serve as a historical archive, showcasing the evolution of the festival, the talented artists and craftsmen who have participated, and the vital role the event has played in promoting wildlife conservation. Spanning from the inaugural 1971 guide to the most recent edition, this collection is a treasure trove for researchers, historians, and festival enthusiasts alike.
“Preserving our cultural history and making it accessible to the community has always been a priority for the Waterfowl Festival,” said Deena Kilmon, Executive Director of the Waterfowl Festival. “We’re proud to partner with the Talbot County Free Library to ensure that future generations can explore the stories and milestones that have shaped our festival, the town of Easton, and our extended community over the years.”
The Talbot County Free Library welcomes this valuable addition to its collection. Library Director Dana Newman shared their enthusiasm, stating, “This donation enriches our local history archives and provides a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to engage with the history of an event that has had such a profound impact on our community.”
The donated guidebooks will be housed in the library’s Maryland Room, where they will be available for in-library use. Patrons can explore the artistic and cultural legacy of the festival while gaining a deeper understanding of its commitment to waterfowl conservation and the Eastern Shore way of life.
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About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
About the Talbot County Free Library The Talbot County Free Library provides resources, services, and programs that enhance the lives of all Talbot County residents. Through its commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement, the library preserves and shares the region’s rich history for future generations.
Easton, Md. –January 15, 2025 Waterfowl Festival Inc. have recently welcomed new additions to their Boards of Directors in January. Jonathan Rondeau, Kim Newcomb, and Amy Horne have joined the organization this month.
“As we enter into the New Year, we are pleased to have three new board members that have a diverse array of skills and capabilities, each one uniquely important to the continued success of our historic festival, “ remarked Deena Kilmon, Executive Director. “Rondeau and Horne will bring fresh ideas and new energy. Newcomb, a thirty-year chairman and returning board member, will offer a wealth of knowledge and historical perspective.”
Jonathon Rondeau is President & CEO of the Arc Central Chesapeake Region. He partners with The Arc’s board of directors to set the strategic vision and direction of The Arc to make a lasting impact on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Anne Arundel County and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Over the last 6 years, Jonathon has championed transformational change and growth by expanding services, increasing The Arc’s regional presence, and developing leadership at every level of the organization. His past roles include President & CEO of Family League of Baltimore; Vice President, Community Services and then Chief Program Officer of Melwood; and Director of Camping & Therapeutic Recreation, Autism Services & Transportation for The League for People with Disabilities. He is a 2013 graduate of Leadership Maryland and Baltimore’s The Leadership 2017 program.
Rondeau holds a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Notre Dame of Maryland University and a bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation counseling and disability studies from Springfield College. Jonathon resides in Catonsville with his husband, Matt and their son.
A native of Easton, Amy Horne is a life-long participant in the festival, having begun her journey as a youth volunteer or “Ducksitter” while still in high school. Horne currently serves as the Executive Director of the St. Michaels Community Center. Her recent past role as the Executive Director of Casa of Caroline showcased her substantial talent in creating a positive impact in the community, an ability to successfully create multi-dimensional fundraising and awareness campaigns for the organization, and a strong ability to create opportunities for volunteers and community partners to participate in the organization’s work.
Horne holds a Master of Social Work degree from Salisbury University. She has served as the President of Denton Rotary and the Shireton Condominium Association. Past board experience includes the Domestic Violence Center of Greater New Haven and the Friends of Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital. She lives in Easton with her husband Ernie Rowe.
Kim Newcomb returns to the board after a few year’s hiatus. She is a native of Talbot County and has a deep love and appreciation for the waterfowling traditions and Eastern Shore lifestyle. Newcomb brings a wealth of industry experience, having worked for many years at Safariland Hunting Corporation. Currently she is the owner of Terry k & Associates, a real estate appraisal office.
Since 1996 she has been the Waterfowl Festival Artifacts Chairman, spearheading and designing each year’s educational exhibit which has delighted thousands of visitors over the years. Newcomb and her husband Ronnie were inducted into the Waterfowl Festival Hall of Fame in 2016. Her past experiences also include serving on the board and as the interim Deputy Director of the acclaimed Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art in Salisbury, MD. She has served on the Dorchester County Historical Society Board of Directors (2012-2016) and the Dorchester County Sanitation Board of Trustees (2014-current), serving as President of the Board from 2015-2020. Kim and Ronnie reside in Church Creek, Maryland.
About Waterfowl Festival Inc.
Waterfowl Festival Inc., a partner of Waterfowl Chesapeake Inc., is dedicated to wildlife conservation, the promotion of wildlife art, and the celebration of life on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The 54th Festival will be held November 14-16, 2025 in historic Easton, Md. General admission tickets are $25 for all three days and VIP packages are also available. For more information, to volunteer, or donate, email or call 410-822-4567.
Waterfowl Festival, Inc Appoints Julie Susman President for 2025 Festival
[Easton, MD] – January 1,2025 – The Waterfowl Festival, Inc is pleased to announce that Julie Susman has been selected as its 2025 Board of Directors President.
Julie Susman is the former President, CEO and owner of Jefferson Consulting Group, a small, woman-owned, Washington, DC professional service firm. Susman’s career spanned 41 years in Washington working both on Capitol Hill and in Business. She is an expert in federal business development, government relations, and government procurement, with a focus on health care, information technology, and improving how the government buys, operates and executes its mission.
She is a nationally recognized expert in federal health care programs, including veterans’ and military health care programs. Prior to heading Jefferson Consulting Group, she managed the Washington operations of McDonnell Douglas’ Health Information Systems Company, and previously served as Deputy Staff Director, Legislative Director, and Deputy Chief Counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Susman also serves as the President of the Talbot Preservation Alliance (TPA) and as a Board Member of the Mid Shore Council on Family Violence.
Susman holds a master’s degree in psychological counseling from The George Washington University, and a bachelor’s degree from Sarah Lawrence College. She lives in Royal Oak, Md, and has three children and seven grandchildren.
The 54th annual Waterfowl Festival is planned for Nov. 14-16, 2025. For volunteer, vendor or corporate partner opportunities, please contact: .
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About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen.
Easton, MD – January 7, 2025 – The Ward Foundation, in collaboration with the Waterfowl Festival and the Maryland State Arts Council, is pleased to announce the Folklife Apprentice Film Series event, scheduled for January 23, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Waterfowl Festival Building, located at 40 S. Harrison St, Easton, MD.
This engaging evening will feature a selection of short films from the Maryland State Arts Council’s Folklife Apprenticeship program, showcasing diverse cultural traditions and artistic practices.
“Going into 2025, we are thrilled to be offering such an engaging and meaningful program featuring films from all across the artistic landscape. We are excited to engage a larger audience by offering diverse educational opportunities along with our partners at the Maryland State Arts Council and the Ward Foundation,” remarked Deena Kilmon, executive director of the Waterfowl Festival. “We encourage the community to take advantage of this wonderful free arts program.”
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to participate in a hands-on activity, painting a bufflehead silhouette under the guidance of Master Carver, Waterfowl Festival Hall of Fame honoree and National Heritage Award Winner, Rich Smoker.
Admission to the event is free; however, registration is required.
Location: Waterfowl Festival Building, 40 S. Harrison St, Easton, MD
Admission: Free (Registration required)
For more information about the event and other programs, please visit the Ward Foundation’s website athttps://wardfdn.org/. Ward Foundation PO Box 2132 Salisbury, Maryland 21802 Phone: 410-339-0668 Email: .
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
About the Ward Foundation:
The Ward Foundation is dedicated to promoting and preserving the legacy of the Ward Brothers, artistic traditions, community heritage, and connections to the natural environment.
Through various events, programs, and educational initiatives, the foundation supports and interprets the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Waterfowl Festival Announces 2024 Hall of Fame Members
[Easton, MD] – November 18, 2024 – Each year since 1992, the Waterfowl Festival Hall of Fame Awards have been given in recognition of the commitment and impact that individuals have made on the Festival and in turn our community. We proudly honor these people who have had a significant hand in shaping our event into one of the premiere wildlife and waterfowl art shows in the country. On November 13, 2024, three new honorees were inducted during the 53rd Annual Premier Night ceremonies in the iconic Crystal Room at the Tidewater Inn.
Hall of Fame members have offered at least 10 years of significant support as a community volunteer, Festival leader, collector, artist or innovator. Over the years, these individuals have poured their heart and soul into our community and we are deeply grateful for their contributions.
This year, we proudly honor Blenda Armistead, Ron Flohr, and Butch Townsend, all of Talbot County, MD.
Blenda Armistead has been a Waterfowl Festival volunteer for over 37 years. She began as a cashier and ultimately was named to her current role as an Art Committee chairman, focusing her efforts on the iconic Armory art exhibition each fall. She has served two terms on the board, including one year as Vice-President. Her husband Bruce is also a Hall of Fame honoree.
Ron Flohr was a ducksitter in his youth, helping the festival during his high school years. As an adult, Flohr served five years on the Board of Directors, ultimately being elected to two terms as president. Ron is committed to his family, his community, and is well known for his passion for the Waterfowl Festival.
Samuel “Butch” Townsend began volunteering in 1999 in the Buy, Sell, Swap market, a favorite of long-time festival attendees. He co-chaired the Sportsman’s pavilion multiple times, and was a board member in 2009, 2012-2019 and again in 2020-2022. Townsend served as treasurer and was instrumental in helping the festival weather the financial landscape of the Covid-19 pandemic, ultimately helping establish a strong foundation and the ability to return to full operations by the fall of 2021.
“We are thrilled to recognize Ron, Blenda, and Butch for their extraordinary contributions to the Waterfowl Festival,” said president Eric Millhollan. “Their passion, dedication, and vision have not only strengthened our Festival but have created opportunities for people in our community to understand and appreciate the cultural and natural heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region.”
The 54th annual Waterfowl Festival is planned for Nov. 14-16, 2025. For vendor or sponsor inquiries, please contact: .
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About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen.
The 54th annual Waterfowl Festival is planned for Nov. 14-16, 2025. For vendor or sponsor inquiries, please contact: .
Waterfowl Festival and Burnish Brewing announce “In Flight” Beer release
[Easton, MD] – October 18, 2024– Waterfowl Festival Inc. and Burnish Beer Co. announce the limited edition release of “In Flight” a fall brew produced in collaboration with Bird Nickel Brewing of Easton, MD. This spiced winter lager will complement delicious fall food pairings and evoke warm memories of a crackling fire, good friends, and brisk outdoor fun – the perfect companion to help celebrate Waterfowl weekend!
The beer’s concept was developed with Doug Greene of Bird Nickel Brewing, who grew up in Easton and has a deep passion for the mission and vision of the Waterfowl Festival. Greene approached the festival in spring 2024 and the collaboration with Burnish soon followed. The beer’s eye-catching label is designed by Maggii Sarfaty, an Easton-based artist who also painted the background for this year’s festival map.
During the festival, the beer will be available at Premier Night on Nov. 7 in all of the art pavilions, free to all VIP ticket holders while supplies last. Through the weekend, VIP ticket holders can request the beer in the VIP hospitality suite. “In Flight” can be purchased at the new Duck Blind Bar located within the Avalon Theatre. This venue will also feature seasonal craft beers from RAR, Big Truck, and Burley Oak. Festival participants will also be able to sample the beer in the tasting pavilion located on Dover Street with the purchase of a tasting pavilion ticket.
Parking and Transportation – Enjoy free parking and bus transportation with a festival ticket. Ample accessible parking, ticket booths, and bus stops will be located at Easton High School, Easton Elementary School, and Easton Middle School. Transportation and parking are available free with the support of Londonderry on the Tred Avon, The Arc Central Chesapeake Region, Benson and Mangold, and the Talbot County Public School System. Four bus routes this year will get your where you need to go, fast!
Questions? Please contact us at the Waterfowl Festival office, Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00PM. Volunteers are needed for all venues and will earn a free ticket good for all three days of the festival!
For tickets please visit: https://waterfowlfestival.org/festival-tickets/
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About the Waterfowl Festival
Since 1971, the Waterfowl Festival has raised nearly six million dollars for conservation and education efforts. Proceeds from the festival support various environmental, art, student scholarships, and cultural initiatives, ensuring that future generations can understand and enjoy the beauty and diversity of waterfowl and their environments. The festival also plays a vital role in supporting the local community, drawing visitors from around the country and boosting the regional economy.
The Waterfowl Festival gratefully acknowledges the support of the Maryland State Arts Council, the Maryland Historic Trust, the Town of Easton, Talbot County Government, and all of our incredible community partners including the hundreds of volunteers that make all the magic happen. We gratefully acknowledge the support of our 2024 Legacy Conservation Partners – PNC Bank, Guyette and Deeter, Ducks Unlimited, and the Maryland State Arts Council.
For more information about the Waterfowl Festival, including ticket sales and a full schedule of events, please visitwww.waterfowlfestival.org.
