By Laura WalterTo celebrate Dorchester County’s economic prowess and potential, the 2025 “Water Moves Us” economic profile was released this month, a glossy magazine that shows off business potential, success stories and overall quality of life.
Community leaders were invited to a Jan. 22 magazine release at Suicide Bridge Restaurant in Hurlock. The annual magazine is published by the Dorchester Banner / BayToBayNews.com in partnership with Dorchester County Economic Development Office.
“This publication was designed to feature the county’s successes, while also inspiring new businesses to consider our region,” said Tonda Parks, associate publisher of the Banner. The annual magazine and event are part of the company’s mission to “strengthen the communities that we serve by publishing unbiased journalism and helping businesses grow.”
The title “Water Moves Us” references the County’s marketing slogan and culture: “Home to industrious, innovative and creative individuals, Dorchester County’s landscape defines not only where—but who—we are.”
“It’s a way we can showcase our strengths, our community and our region,” said Susan Banks, Economic Development Director.
The magazine inspires businesses to either build or expand in Dorchester, while educating the public on interesting projects here. It will be distributed to the public this spring. Contact or visit the Economic Development Office for copies. Or, read the “Water Moves Us” magazine online at https://sections.iniusa.org.
This year’s articles include: creative business at Vintage Family Farms; regional research at the Horn Point Laboratory; entrepreneur training and space at the Four Eleven Kitchen; the next generation at Dorchester Career & Technology Center; a new “Dorchester Dreams” county song; manufacturing; local activities; and much more.
Agriculture plays a major role, both in the economy and the 2025 cover photo, courtesy of Vintage Family Farms. The colorful flower bouquet shows the vibrant abundance of Dorchester produce.
Katelin Frase’s family owns Vintage Family Farms, so she was a guest speaker at the Jan. 22 luncheon. This cut-flower farm is a place for people to make core memories, exploring the fields, flowers and natural beauty. “We’re trying to inspire people to go out to the farm,” said Frase. “That flower will ultimately wilt, but those memories last … it’s not a splurge. It’s literally a pick-me-up and brings you joy.” Plus, giving flowers builds a connection between the givers and recipients. “Flowertainment” is just one farm-related activity in a region that has wine, gourmet beef and more. Plus, Dorchester attracts both local and long-distance guests, so people are paying attention.
Frase also owns a part of Delmarva Beach Grass, LLC, making creative use of the farm’s rather sandy soil. “I’m a big dreamer—which I think everyone in this room is,” Frase said.
The event capped off with a special debut performance of “Dorchester Dreams,” an indie song that just released in January, by singer-songwriter Jayla Elise.
“I wanted it to be about the people who live here and why it’s special to live in Dorchester County,” said Holly Gilpin, Director of Tourism, who commissioned the song. So the lyrics paint broad strokes of the towns, the water and the feeling of being here.
“Winding roads, they lead me home down by the shore, where the marsh runs with the tides … where the river runs free,” Jayla Elise sings in “Dorchester Dreams.”
After the crowd’s enthusiastic applause, Jayla Elise spoke for herself and her music management group, Barzini Family: “Thank you everybody. We truly believe that the Eastern Shore will be the next music hotspot.”
Find the “Dorchester Dreams” music download at JaylaElise.com and major streaming services.
