By Laura Walter

The County Times brought together some of the people who make the community a better place, through their excellence in business and in volunteerism. Winners from the 2024 Stars of Somerset readers’ poll were honored at a public celebration on Aug. 15 at Somers Cove Marina in Crisfield.

Readers voted this summer in the Stars poll, to honor the businesses, organizations, nonprofits and people who go above and beyond. The contest has over 100 categories, like favorite pizza, parks, plumbers, principals and more.

“These people are working hard every day and are finally getting attention,” said Karen Riggin, County Times marketing consultant. “It’s exciting for these people … for someone to call up and say, ‘The whole community has voted for the best in business, and you’re one of them!’”

The evening celebration in Crisfield included live music by Endless Ember duo, door prizes, photo ops, scrumptious barbecue vendors and more.

A special part of the program was the Person of the Year award, presented each year for excellence in community service.

Brian Laird Sr. was named the 2024 Person of the Year for his love and personal dedication to youth athletics in Somerset County. A longtime coach, Laird hopes to teach his players that “There’s a code of ethics in everything you do, and baseball’s no exception,” Laird has said. “You gotta know how to act in this world, and if you can act like that on a baseball field … and in school, then I think you’re going to become a better person.”

Billie Jo Chandler was a Person of the Year finalist for her longtime volunteerism and consistency to keep showing up.

Caitlin Kilby was a Person of the Year finalist for her dedication to Somerset arts and overall nonprofit organizations.

This evening under the stars was sponsored by Chesapeake Utilities, Somerset County Arts Council and T And T Automotive.

For the full list of Stars finalists and winners, plus Person of the Year interviews, read the “Stars of Somerset” publication at BayToBayNews.com/Somerset/SpecialSections.