In the heart of Rockville City Hall, a gathering of community leaders and residents came together on July 8, 2024, to honor the legacy of peace and celebrate the importance of parks and recreation. The meeting began with a heartfelt proclamation recognizing July 17 as JT Stepanek Peace Day, a tribute to the late Maddie J. T. Stepanek, a young poet and advocate for peace whose messages continue to resonate two decades after his passing.

Mayor and council members expressed their gratitude to Jenny Stepanek, Maddie's mother, for her tireless efforts to promote her son's vision of peace. The proclamation highlighted Maddie's profound impact, noting how his "heart songs" reached people across the globe, transcending age, race, and nationality. The upcoming Peace Day event, scheduled for July 14 at Maddie J. T. Stepanek Park, promises a day filled with activities aimed at fostering community spirit and promoting peace, including arts and crafts, entertainment, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new labyrinth symbolizing pathways to peace.

As the meeting transitioned, the focus shifted to the significance of parks and recreation in the community. Councilman Van Grack proclaimed July as Parks and Recreation Month, emphasizing the vital role these spaces play in enhancing physical and mental well-being. The council recognized the contributions of local organizations and individuals who have enriched Rockville's recreational offerings, underscoring the connection between parks and community health.

The discussions underscored a shared commitment to nurturing a peaceful and vibrant community, reminding attendees that the pursuit of peace and the appreciation of nature are intertwined. As the meeting concluded, the council members encouraged residents to engage with both the Peace Day event and the city's parks, fostering a sense of unity and well-being that echoes Maddie's enduring legacy.