The front lawn of the Courthouse was abundant with purple and silver ballons and streamers, and the Courthouse donned a banner that read “Celebrate Talbot County” high above the front doorsteps. On any other Thursday, people may be making their way home from work ready to enjoy their evening– but on this April 25th, individuals instead began to gather with friends, family, and officials in downtown Easton to celebrate Talbot Day and the birthday of Talbot County.
Under the evening sun, the County Courthouse hummed with excitement. Around 5 p.m., the crowd grew quiet and settled in quickly as Allegro Academy began to sing, creating a tapestry of sound that enveloped the audience.
Following the choir’s beautiful renditions of “In Meeting We Are Blessed” and “Connected”, the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office Color Guard provided the Presentation of the Colors and Council Member Dave Stepp offered the Prayer of Hope, invoking a sense of unity and gratitude.
Council President Chuck Callahan and Easton Mayor Megan Cook extended warm greetings to all before Council Members Keasha Haythe and Lynn Mielke introduced the nominees for the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards.
Formerly known as the “Maryland You Are Beautiful” program, the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards program aims to honor local heroes whose selfless volunteer contributions help make Talbot County a better place to live, work, and visit. Council Member Keasha Haythe emphasized the program’s continuation as a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism and goodwill within the community.
“The program generated enormous state pride and fostered volunteerism, goodwill, and community support. When the State program ended, the Talbot County Council chose to continue the local aspect of the program, renaming it the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards, and incorporating it as part of Talbot Day,” said Council Member Keasha Haythe.
Council Member Lynn Mielke underscored the impact of these individuals, highlighting their invaluable contributions across various sectors of the community. The nominees were: Dr. Judi Gieske, Lizette Hannegan, Laura Hiekes, Diana Mautz (posthumously), Michelle Moaney, Dana Newman, Syrinthia Ann-Foster Johnson, Sherye Nickerson, Krisa Paquin, James Redman, Susan Roecker, Susan Sherman, and Angeline Sturgis.
The ceremony included a stirring recitation of Useni Eugene Perkins’ poem, “Hey, Black Child” and an excerpt from “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass” read by students from Building African American Minds (BAAM). Additionally, the winners of the Talbot County Poster Contest were recognized for their artistic talents and creativity. Each winning poster will be displayed on pole banners in downtown Easton around the Courthouse.
Poster contest winners were: Division 1 (Age 0-11), Paige Smith with her poster entitled “Lighthouse and Heron”; Division 2 (Age 11-18), Makayla Moore with her poster entitled “Bay to Beach” and Josephine Shaw with her poster entitled “Home”; and Division 3 (Age 19+), Lisa Ghezzi with her poster entitled “Buzzing Bees”.
The highlight of the evening came with the announcement of the “Citizen of the Year” award, the honor posthumously bestowed upon Diana Mautz for her exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the Talbot County community. In a touching tribute, Diana’s children, Johnny and Danny Mautz, accepted the award on her behalf from the County Council and Delegate Chris Adams.
The ceremony concluded with a performance by the Easton High School Jazz Band, followed by birthday cake adorned with the County’s red lion, a symbol of Talbot County’s heritage.
“Talbot Day is here to stay, and I pray it continues to both grow and celebrate everything that makes Talbot County great!,” said Council Member Dave Stepp.
HISTORY OF TALBOT DAY
Established in 1983 by unanimous proclamation of the County Council, April 25th has been recognized as the official birthday of Talbot County. In 2023, the tradition was revitalized with the designation of “Talbot Day,” aimed at fostering community engagement and celebration of the county’s rich heritage.
In April 2024, the County Council, in collaboration with County staff and partners, curated a diverse program to highlight the county’s cultural landmarks, organizations, and events. Leading up to the anniversary celebration, residents had the opportunity to participate in engaging activities such as Talbot Trivia and Bingo, promoting a deeper appreciation for their home.
Additionally, the introduction of the Talbot Citizen and Service Awards, formerly known as “Maryland You Are Beautiful,” highlights the County’s commitment to recognizing and honoring local champions of community service and volunteerism, further enhancing the spirit of Talbot Day.
Event photo highlights can be found here: https://adobe.ly/3wotLng This set of photos can be attributed to Town of Easton, Greg Mueller. Thank you for capturing this occasion.
