Howard County has officially raised its new flag, a design by local resident Esen Paradiso, marking a significant moment in the county’s history. The flag, selected from 209 entries in a year-long competition, symbolizes the county’s blend of agricultural heritage and forward-looking vision. County Executive Calvin Ball praised the design for its uniqueness and its ability to inspire the community, highlighting its representation of Howard County’s natural and human resources.

The new flag features an arch symbolizing the county’s past and future, stripes representing its agricultural and natural resources, and a golden circle embodying the sun’s energy and the community’s diversity. The colors blue and green were chosen to reflect optimism, natural preservation, and cultural appreciation. This design replaces the old flag, which had historical connections to Maryland’s Civil War era, specifically the red-and-white bottony cross linked to Confederate sympathies.

The old flag’s symbolism, rooted in a divisive period of Maryland’s history, contrasts with the new flag’s message of unity and progress. The transition to the new flag represents a step towards embracing a more inclusive and forward-thinking identity for Howard County. The flag-raising ceremony, attended by county officials and residents, signifies the community’s commitment to honoring its past while looking ahead to a bright and inclusive future.

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