The Talbot Partnership for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Prevention recently hosted its Annual Awards Reception at the River House in Easton, MD. Six awards were presented to recognize both individual and organizational contributions toward raising safe and healthy youth. Award recipients for 2012 were Amy Steward, St. Michaels Police Chief Miguel Dennis, Trappe Police Chief George Ball, Dajwan Emory, and Elks Lodge No 1622 and Boy Scout Troop 532.

Don Cook, Talbot Partnership Board President welcomed nearly 70 attendees. In attendance were St. Michaels Commissioners JoAnn Clark and Joyce Harrod, Easton Mayor Bob Willey, Easton Town Council members Kelly Malone and Len Wendowski, and Circuit Court Judge The Honorable Bo Earnest. Gary Pearce, executive director, advised “We gather to celebrate the individuals and organizations that are the real solutions to substance abuse and other problems – they work to make Talbot County a safe and healthier community. “He further noted that “Over 21 years, Talbot Partnership has recognized over 110 individuals, businesses and organizations.“

Amy Steward is a past Board member and President of Talbot Partnership. In addition to her work with numerous community organizations, Amy has been a vocal advocate in the community for responsible parenting and healthy behaviors.

St. Michaels Police Chief Miguel Dennis has been an active participant in the community. Chief Dennis is a Character Counts Coach, a mentor for Talbot Mentors and an organizer of the SMYLE program (St. Michaels Youth and Law Enforcement program). SMYLE was established almost three years ago by Chief Miguel Dennis, who set up the organization as a grassroots program, which often works in collaboration with other local organizations.

Trappe Police Chief George Ball has been an active and vocal leader in the law enforcement community with a passion for protecting our youth against underage drinking and drugs. Delegate Eckardt commended Chief Ball for his efforts to keep the community informed about new information and threats to the community.

Dajwan Emory was a four-year member of the Youth Coalition and was the Youth Award recipient. Dajwan has consistently been a leader in promoting the Youth Coalition for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention activities and a courageous leader in terms of his willingness to be identified with youth who have taken a stand against drugs and alcohol.

The Easton Lodge No. 1622, B.P.O. Elks was instituted on June 5, 1939. Throughout history of the Easton Lodge 1622 the Elk members have been vital and active in the Easton community and have given generously of their time, efforts and donations, not only within the community, but also within the county and statewide. Accepting the award on behalf of the Elks were Mac Brittingham and Dave Wolcott.

Boy Scout Troup 532 was formed in November 2004 by Ernie Smith. Troop 532 has strived to keep kids active and adventurous, while teaching character and values. They are active in the community with charity and community events including the Waterfowl Festival, river and community cleanup efforts, parking for the Hospice Festival of Homes, Christmas caroling at local nursing and assisted living homes, helping with First Night Talbot, July 4 and Flag Day ceremonies, and more.

In addition, Talbot Partnership recognized three scholarship award winners. Dajwan Emory from Easton High School, Alexandra Woodard from St. Michaels High School and Christine Nolan from Sts. Peter and Paul High School were presented $250 scholarships by Aric Rosenbach of the Michael Marcel Memorial Foundation.

Talbot Partnership has a long history of activities and programs in Talbot County of building strong community norms through education and advertising, helping families through programs such as Guiding Good Choices and Safe Homes, serving as fiscal agents for organizations providing community youth outreach and services, making it hard for youth to get alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, and working with youth to encourage healthy choices. For further information on substance abuse in our community, please call Talbot Partnership at 410-819-8067.