Allen County Commissioner Linda Bloom hands retired County Extension Director Mike Talbott a proclamation honoring him for his service during Friday's legislative session. Also pictured are Commissioners Therese Brown and Nelson Peters.

The Allen County Board of Commissioners today recognized the work of retired County Extension Director Mike Talbott.

The Commissioners presented Talbott with a special proclamation honoring him for his 31-year career with the Purdue Extension Service.

Talbott began as 4-H Youth Development Educator in Whitley County in 1980 and transferred to Allen County in the same position in 1988.  He took on the additional role of Extension Director in 2003.  Talbott retired on December 31.

“Mike’s work was instrumental in transforming many young people into caring and responsible young adults,” the proclamation states.  “Mike’s loyalty and enthusiasm influenced a number of those same 4-H members to remain active within the program as volunteers.”

The Commissioners also recognized Talbott’s involvement in several projects for Allen County government, including the County’s Strategic Planning Initiative and the Allen County Community Organizations Active in Disaster.