For more than a decade, state lawmakers passed laws to protect and uplift Maryland’s LGBTQ+ community – from marriage equality for same-sex couples to boosting health care access for transgender individuals. The second Trump administration is likely to put those protections to the test.

President Donald Trump (R) has signaled from day one of his administration that it was going to be an adversary to transgender people, signing an executive order on the first day of his second term that prohibited gender ideology in federal policy, defined sex according to biological factors at conception and rescinded 15 federal policies and guidelines on transgender equality.

In the days and weeks that followed, Trump signed orders banning transgender individuals from girl’s and women’s sports and from military service, prohibiting federal funding or support for gender-affirming care for youth, and more. Congress is also looking to prohibit federal dollars going towards transgender health care.

As they begin Pride month, a time when the LGBTQ+ community comes together to celebrate progress and reflect on setbacks for the gay and transgender community, some Maryland transgender advocates fear current state protections may not be enough to counter federal efforts.

“Maryland is in a better position than most,” said Ruth Carlock with Trans Rights Advocacy Coalition. “Now that we’re in the Trump administration, a lot of those things might not be as strong as we’d hope, and we might need more legislation in the future.

“One thing I’ve been saying a lot over the past six months,” Carlock said, “I’m feeling very proud to be a Marylander, while feeling less proud of being an American in this current state of politics.”

Lee Blinder, a nonbinary official who chairs the Maryland Commission on LGBTQIA+ Affairs in the Governor’s Office and works with advocacy group Trans Maryland, has mixed feelings about the state’s progress this year.

“We really are in an excellent place compared to so many of our sibling in other states like Florida and Texas,” they said. “However, we have not seen the kind of movement that we would want to see from Maryland that we’ve been able to accomplish previously.”

Blinder is particularly disappointed that the Birth Certificate Modernization Act, did not pass. The bill would have made it easier for transgender people to make changes to their birth certificates, among other measures, relieving administrative headaches that can occur when gender markers do not align on various documents. Transgender advocates have been pushing that bill for the last few years.

Blinder feels transgender people were not prioritized this past session, and publicly brought those concerns to Gov. Wes Moore (D) during an event at the State House recognizing Transgender Day of Visibility. Blinder criticized what they called the administration’s lack of support to protect the community amid federal measures to diminish the presence of transgender people in day-to-day life.

“We know who you, Governor Moore, can be for us, and I am here begging you to do it,” Blinder said, while standing next to Moore.

“It will not get easier to support trans people. It will not get easier to commit to this community, it will only get harder in the days that come,” Blinder said at the time.

They hold those concerns to this day.

“We’re facing a state of emergency for the trans community — the same message I had before on Trans Day of Visibility. That still applies,” Blinder said in a recent interview.

There were some successes for gay and transgender people this legislative session. In May, Moore signed House Bill 1045 into law, which tweaks the state’s shield laws on legally protected health care that prohibits physicians from turning over patient information regarding “sensitive health services.” In Maryland, that includes gender-affirming care as well as abortions.

Del. Kris Fair (D-Frederick), who chairs the Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus, noted some other wins for the LGBTQ+ community. House Bill 39 and Senate Bill 356 were signed into law, removing a criminal penalty for intentionally transferring HIV to another person, which advocates say was antiquated and discriminatory.

But Fair noted that the state budget was a major hurdle to progress across issues this session, as the state grappled with a $3 billion deficit, resulting in widespread program cuts and limited dollars available for new initiatives in general.

Del. Kris Fair (D-Frederick) said budget woes this session made it difficult for many bills to move, including some on transgender issues. (Photo by Danielle J. Brown/Maryland Matters).

 “We had an overarching deficit budget that we were dealing with, that was unavoidable and sucked all of the oxygen out of the room,” Fair said. “Every conversation was buried under this question of the budget.”

Despite the slowed progress this session, Fair believes that Maryland is “light years ahead” of other states when it comes to LGBTQ+ protections.

“It is the incredible wisdom of the legislature over the last 13 years that has truly saved us, starting with the Maryland (Marriage) Equality vote in 2012 and moving forward from there,” he said.

During his term, Moore has approved a handful of bills creating transgender protections that advocates say will be crucial in the coming years.

One of those is the Trans Health Equity Act signed in 2023, which requires Maryland Medicaid to cover medically-necessary gender-affirming care.

Congress is debating whether to prohibit federal Medicaid dollars from funding gender-affirming care. If that prohibition becomes law, the state may have to backfill any federal matching dollars currently supporting gender-affirming care under Maryland Medicaid to align with the Trans Health Equity Act, if funds are available.

Advocates are also thankful that the state’s shield law for legally protected health care was expanded in 2024 to include gender-affirming care. The intent is to protect the medical information of persons who seek gender-affirming care in Maryland from being shared across state lines, and potentially into the hands of law enforcement in states that are more hostile to transgender people.

“The Moore-Miller Administration will continue to protect the civil rights and livelihoods of LGBTQIA+ Marylanders by working with the state legislature, local leaders, and community advocates to deliver results for this community uniquely targeted by the Trump Administration,” a Moore spokesperson said in a written statement.

Due to these and other policies, Maryland is largely recognized a “safe haven” for gay and transgender people. The Movement Advancement Project, which assesses states based on laws that protect or harm transgender residents, ranks Maryland as seventh in protections on gender identity, and sixth for LGBTQ+ protections overall.

Blinder and Carlock say that Pride month is important, now more than ever, for building community supports to take care of one another even if state protections don’t stand up to anti-transgender federal policies.

“It’s so easy for the practical needs that are so urgent to take over and to overshadow the very real need for us to be able to find joy and to celebrate,” Blinder said. “Because it’s not possible to survive these kinds of attacks without experiencing joy and experiencing the community connections and bonds that we have with one another.”

Carlock said that some advocates have even been more active in the community since Trump took office.

“That’s been one of the nice things about the last few months is this sense of community that has slowly been – you know, it’s always there, but it’s nice seeing that expand in the face of danger,” she said. “But also recognizing that that positive turn is coming from an existential threat and big fear of legislation to come.”

by Danielle J. Brown, Maryland Matters
June 6, 2025

Maryland Matters is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Maryland Matters maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Steve Crane for questions: [email protected].

After two large concrete pours over the past couple weeks, Cambridge Waterfront  Development, Inc. (CWDI) is happy to announce that the Waterfront Promenade is over 65%  complete. 

“We’re excited to be another step closer in providing this first public amenity of Cambridge  Harbor” says Angie Hengst, CWDI’s President. “We encourage the community to come down  and have a look at the progress.”  

The concrete provides a strong base for emergency vehicle access along the waterfront. Brick  pavers will be laid on top of the concrete with bioretention planters between the promenade  and riprap along the water’s edge. Earth Movers out of Hurlock is the General Contractor on  the project and they are using various Eastern Shore subcontractors to complete the work.

The project, which broke ground last September, is scheduled for completion by mid to late  summer and is funded by a Federal Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant of  $2.4 Million for which CWDI successfully competed in partnership with the Chesapeake  Conservancy in 2022. The project includes a $600,000 match from CWDI for a total project  cost of 3.0 million. The MidShore Regional Council Executive Director, Scott Warner, has  been an invaluable partner over the past several months in helping to facilitate the flow of  reimbursements funds from the grant. 

CWDI is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit development corporation and public-private partnership  made up the State of Maryland, Dorchester County, City of Cambridge, and CWDI. Each  appoints members to CWDI’s seven-member all volunteer Board of Directors. CWDI is charged  with developing the Cambridge waterfront through a community-first approach consistent  with the community’s long-term vision. 

For more information about CWDI or Cambridge Harbor, use  www.cambridgeharbor.org.

The Delmarva Pride Center is excited to announce its upcoming event, “A  Night in New Orleans,” a vibrant fundraiser celebrating Pride Month and supporting the ongoing efforts to  promote equality and inclusivity in the community. The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, with a  VIP Cocktail Hour starting at 6:00 PM and Concert and Dance starting at 7:00 PM at the historic Garfield  Center for the Arts in Chestertown, Maryland. 

Attendees will be transported to the heart of New Orleans with an evening filled with live jazz music, Cajun  cuisine, and festive dancing reminiscent of the French Quarter. The event aims to bring together community  members, local leaders, and supporters to honor the spirit of Pride and raise funds for Delmarva Pride Center’s  initiatives. 

Highlights of the evening include: 

Live Entertainment: Performances by the Ryan Asprion Jazz Combo capturing the soulful sounds of New  Orleans. VIP ticket holders will be treated to dance lessons with special guest Jackie Moreland. 

Culinary Delights: A menu featuring New Orleans inspired dishes prepared by Happy Chicken. Silent Auction: Guests can bid on a variety of items and experiences donated by local businesses and artisans. 

“We are thrilled to host ‘A Night in New Orleans’ as a celebration of diversity, love, and unity,” said Francoise  Sullivan, Chair of the Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center. “This event not only honors Pride  Month but also reinforces our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where everyone feels valued  and supported.” 

Tickets for the event are available for purchase on the Delmarva Pride Center website at https://www.delmarvapridecenter.com/festival. All proceeds will benefit the Delmarva Pride Centers programs  and initiatives aimed at creating a positive environment inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities. 

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate Pride, community, and the vibrant culture of New Orleans! Special thanks to our sponsors Trax Advantage Driving Academy, Envision Wealth Planning and Barbi Bedell. 

For more information about the Kent County Chapter of the Delmarva Pride Center, please visit  www.dpckentcounty.org or contact Francoise Sullivan at [email protected]. 

About the Delmarva Pride Center: 

The Delmarva Pride Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the 

LGBTQIA+ community throughout the Delmarva Peninsula. Through educational programs, outreach  initiatives, and social events, the Center strives to create a more inclusive and affirming society for all. 

For more information about the Delmarva Pride Center, please visit www.delmarvapridecenter.com or email  [email protected].

This year’s Tour de Talbot, a fully-supported bike ride offering three distances, will take place on June 14, 2025 and will be the main fundraiser for Talbot Thrive, a non-profit dedicated to safe to healthy and safe outdoor mobility for everyone who lives and visits Talbot County. Riders will leave from the Easton Firehall location on Leonard Rieck Drive in Easton and enjoy the day, taking in the beautiful farmland and water views of Talbot County. In 2024, Tour de Talbot had over 450 riders participating and organizers expect even more riders from up and down the East Coast. The ride costs $75 per rider and includes SAG support, multiple rest stops, a ride on the historic Oxford Ferry and lunch with beverages after the ride provided by local favorite Eat Sprout.   

Easton Cycle and Sport, will assist riders with tire air pressure checks in the morning. Additional sponsors include Out of the Fire Restaurant, Chesapeake Inspired, The Oxford Ferry, Chesapeake Bay Outfitters, East Sprout, Dock Street Foundation, Carrion Electricians, Terrapin Security, Preston Cares,  Friel Lumber Company, Shore United Bank, Book Hounds, Parvilla Travel and Easton Utilities.  

“We’re thrilled to embark on our fourth annual Tour de Talbot, building upon the successes of the past three years,” said Heather Grant, the ride organizer and Executive Director of Talbot Thrive. “Our aim remains steadfast: to elevate this event to new heights, accentuating the beauty of the route while promoting healthy and safer outdoor mobility. While offering a fantastic day of riding, we aspire to show off all that Talbot County has to offer, enhancing its appeal as a vibrant place to visit and explore – all the while promoting the initiatives of Talbot Thrive.” 

Rest stops with water and snacks will be available approximately every 15 miles, but will close at 2 p.m. All routes will be crossing the Oxford Ferry. 

About Talbot Thrive: Talbot Thrive is a 501C3 established to advocate for safer alternative modes of transportation in Talbot County, with a focus on walking, running, and biking. Initiatives this year include expanding Bike Rodeos for educating children on proper and safe bike riding skills, advocating for the design and construction of the Frederick Douglass Rail Trail from Easton to Queen Anne and promoting design and construction of the Oxford Parks Connector Trail which would be the first step in the eventual Oxford to Easton “Oyster Trail”.  Volunteers and corporate sponsors are needed! Organizations who wish to participate can learn more at tourdetalbot.org or email [email protected].   

Register and learn more at http://www.tourdetalbot.org

In 2017, Talbot Interfaith Shelter (TIS) was hoping to create a fundraising event that would bring the community together and help them stand out among all of the worthy local nonprofit organizations.  That year, TIS hosted its first Lip Sync Battle fundraiser, and all involved were over the moon when this out-of-the-box idea raised $10,000.

Now a local phenomenon involving neighbors from all corners of the Mid-Shore, the 9th Annual Lip Sync Battle was held on Saturday, April 26th at the Waterfowl Building in Easton.  By the time the last note rang out, TIS and the Lip Sync participants had raised more than $125,000 to support the organization’s mission of fighting homelessness by providing Shelter, Stability, Support, and a path to Success for local families and individuals in need.

“We are beyond overjoyed,” says TIS Executive Director Julie Lowe.  “Last year’s event raised more than $112,000, and we decided to raise the bar a bit higher this year, but it was certainly a bit of a gamble.  That our community not only helped us reach this goal, but actually surpass it, has filled our hearts to the brim!  Many of our guests were also in the audience for the event, from baby to senior citizen, and they had the opportunity to see hundreds of people come together on their behalf, share joy, and cheer them on.  Witnessing all the love in that room has a profound effect on them and gives them energy and inspiration to keep going and work hard in our program.”

More than 100 neighbors participated in Lip Sync 2025, performing on stage or recording lip sync videos and raising money to support the guests at TIS’ two shelter homes (Easton’s Promise for families and Evelyn’s Place for single adults) and 17 transitional apartments.

6 teams competed live on stage, all of whom have joined in previously – a testament to their ongoing commitment to TIS and its mission.  The audience sang along, danced, and cheered for The AKAs (the Kappa Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.), Black Wizard, The Cash Queens (from Shore United Bank), The Country School Faculty, The Happy Hour Honies, and students from the Saints Peter and Paul School.

There were also 10 competitors who bowled over the audience with their creative Video Submissions.  Many veterans returned to the competition, including Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers, Easton Family Dental, The Factory, Father Nash from Saints Peter and Paul, the Latin Honors “SLAYciety” from Easton High School, and Team TIS, comprised of staff and board members from Talbot Interfaith Shelter.  They were joined by several newcomers: BAAM (Building African American Minds, who competed live in 2019, but submitted their first video this year), The Mighty Ducks from the Waterfowl Festival, The Morning DJs from WCEI Radio and WINX FM, and Rhythm and Blueprints from Rauch, Inc.

The teams competed for two awards in each category.  The Best Fundraiser awards went to Black Wizard in the Live Category and Team TIS in the Video Category.  TIS also welcomed judges Childlene Brooks, Director of the Brookletts Place Senior Center, Ben Brunner, host of All Things Considered on WHCP Radio, and Lonnelle Green, owner of Cardinal Construction, who determined the winners of the Best Performance awards in each category.  Black Wizard earned the Best Live Performance award for their uncanny impression of KISS, and the Best Video Performance trophy was awarded to Father Nash, who broke out his disco shoes and wig and recruited the whole Saints Peter and Paul community to boogie down for TIS.

Lip Sync Battle was made possible by an astounding 48 sponsor businesses, organizations, and individuals who donated talent and treasure to create a magical evening for all who attended.  TIS would like to express its deepest gratitude to Presenting Sponsor, Sun Management Rising Technologies, whose owner Jim Vanderzon delivered an inspiring speech during the event, spurring the audience on to reach the fundraising goal.  In addition, the organization would like to give special acknowledgement to Rock Star Sponsors On Your Mark Lighting and Design for their incredible transformation of the Waterfowl Building space.  The event was produced by Katie Parks Events and Jayme Dingler of What’s Good, LLC.  Learn more about Lip Sync Battle 2025, meet the teams, see a full list of sponsors, and watch a live recording of the event at talbotinterfaithshelter.org/lsb

To learn more about Talbot Interfaith Shelter, its mission, and how you can help neighbors overcome homelessness, visit talbotinterfaithshelter.org or contact TIS Director of Development and Marketing, Laura Richeson, at [email protected]

Queen Anne’s County, in partnership with the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA), will continue the US 50/301 (Blue Star Memorial Highway) Ramp Management Program on Kent Island this summer. The initiative aims to encourage westbound travelers to stay on US 50/301 and help relieve congestion on MD 18 (Main Street) for local residents and emergency responders.

Beginning Sunday, May 18, ramp access onto westbound US 50/301 will be restricted each Saturday, Sunday, and holiday Monday (Memorial Day and Labor Day) at the following locations:

• Duke Street (Exit 38A)
• MD 8 (Business Parkway/Romancoke Road, Exit 37)

Restrictions will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on these days. Drivers will still be able to exit westbound US 50/301 onto MD 8 and MD 18 but will not be able to enter westbound US 50/301 from these two points during the restriction window.

Detour signs will direct motorists to use MD 18 eastbound to Castle Marina Road south, where access to westbound US 50 will be available.

Overhead and portable message signs will alert motorists of these changes. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead by checking live traffic conditions at chart.maryland.gov.

Impact in 2024

The pilot project showed promising results:

• MD 18 Westbound from Castle Marina Road to MD 8 saw a 55% decrease in traffic travel time compared to summer 2023.
• Delays from Piney Narrows Road to Castle Marina Road were reduced by 20%.
• Detour travel time averaged 13 minutes during summer weekends, with minimal delay when Bay Bridge traffic was flowing.
• Despite an increase in westbound traffic volume (46,500 in 2023 vs. 47,400 in 2024), maximum travel time on US 50 westbound decreased from 52.4 to 43.9 minutes.

Community members are encouraged to share feedback. Public comment is welcomed at any County Commissioners meeting, held on the second and fourth Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, with in-person and virtual options available. Comments can also be emailed to [email protected].

For more information on the Ramp Management Program, visit www.qac.org and click “Bay Bridge Traffic Info,” or explore the project website:
https://mdot-sha-us50-kent-iss-traffic-mgmt-study-qa50kitms-maryland.hub.arcgis.com

Car and boat enthusiasts will gather on Maryland’s Eastern Shore this summer and fall as two premier motoring events take place at the waterfront Kent Island Yacht Club.

The 9th annual Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival returns on June 7–8, 2025, followed by the 18th annual St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on the Chesapeake Bay, scheduled for September 26–28, 2025. St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance Inc. and the Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society are presenting both events in partnership with Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina.

The yacht club’s expansive waterfront lawn will transform into an open-air museum, featuring a dazzling lineup of antique, classic, hot rod, and sports cars, along with a curated collection of classic boats and grand motor yachts.

Free online applications for vehicle and boat entries are now open and can be for one or two days. Event sponsors include Red Horse Motoring Club, Fred Frederick Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Easton, Prestige Auto Vault, Preston Automotive Group, Shore United Bank, and Treasured Motorcar Services. Advance discounted tickets are good for both days and can be purchased online at  www.chesapeakebaymotoringfestival.org.

Start your Engines in June

The Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival kicks off Saturday, June 7, with a lively Cars & Coffee gathering featuring car clubs, hot rods, muscle cars, and elegant vintage vehicles. All types of vehicles are welcome to participate. The weekend concludes Sunday afternoon with a whimsical awards ceremony along the waterfront. Categories include “Best Car to Take Your Momma to Church” and “Car Most Inclined to Stop for Gas.”

The festival’s People’s Choice Award winner will earn a featured spot in September’s Concours d’Elegance.

Spotlight on Elegance in September

The September 26–28 Concours d’Elegance on Chesapeake Bay will showcase Rolls-Royce as the Grand Marque, highlighting a grand celebration of the 100^th Anniversary of the Phantom. An invitational class of racing Corvettes will be on display, along with a Winner’s Circle featuring previous best of show winners from other Concours d’Elegance events, including Greenwich, Radnor Hunt, and Amelia Island.

The weekend will also include a spotlight on Chesapeake Bay yachting, along with classic motor yachts and wooden speedboats on display. Sponsored by the Dwight Schaubach Collection, a unique grouping of fabulous examples from Suffolk, Virginia, will be showcased.

Entries for the Concours d’Elegance are now open and available online through a brief application process.

Concours Chair Luke L. Phipps says the Kent Island Yacht Club offers the ideal setting for both events, bringing together fine motoring, local flavors, scenic waterfront views, and the unique charm of the Eastern Shore.

“Each weekend is a celebration of craftsmanship and community,” Phipps said. “With locally sourced food, craft beverages, live music, vendors, and a festive atmosphere, it’s a complete experience for both car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.”

Arrive by Land—or Water

Both events are ticketed and open to the public, with dockage available for guests arriving by boat at the Kent Island Yacht Club or Hyatt Place Marina. Slip space is limited, and advance reservations are recommended by contacting [email protected].

Entrant applications, early-bird tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more information can be found at www.chesapeakebaymotoringfestival.org or www.smcde.org.

About the Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival

Held each June at the Kent Island Yacht Club, the Chesapeake Bay Motoring Festival is a two-day celebration of all types of automobiles, tractors and boats, offering a scenic, family-friendly experience for gearheads and maritime enthusiasts alike.

About the St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance on the Chesapeake Bay

Now in its 18th year, the St. Michaels Concours d’Elegance is one of the Mid-Atlantic’s most prestigious automotive events. Set along the Chesapeake Bay waterfront, the Concours features a curated collection of rare classic cars and vintage yachts, celebrating the art and elegance of motoring.

The family of former assistant keeper Harold Messick recently gathered at the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse on the campus of the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum to learn more about lighthouse life and remember their ancestor.

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is thrilled to share its 60th-anniversary celebration with its expansive community in 2025.

Throughout the year, CBMM will look back on its six decades through a series of mission-focused videos to be released at cbmm.org/60thAnniversary and its YouTube channel. The anniversary festivities also include a “Celebrating 60 Years of CBMM” logo, social media highlights, an exclusive CBMM Member Night program, and more milestone moments woven into its annual festivals and programming.

The fun culminates with CBMM’s annual Boating Party Fundraising Gala on Saturday, Sept. 6, which will mark the diamond anniversary with a glamorous evening of celebration to benefit the organization’s mission.

“We are proud to celebrate 60 years with everyone who has helped make this milestone possible,” CBMM’s President & CEO Kristen Greenaway said. “With the help of our community, we are excited to use this occasion to spotlight the ways that we have fulfilled our mission through the years and continue to share the Chesapeake story with new audiences.”

Located on Navy Point along the Miles River in historic St. Michaels, CBMM officially opened its doors on May 22, 1965, as a project of the Historical Society of Talbot County amid a still-bustling complex of workboats, docks, and seafood packing houses.

Over the past six decades, CBMM has blossomed into a world-class maritime museum and vital community partner serving more than 80,000 guests per year on its 18-acre campus in fulfillment of its mission to preserve and explore the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and make this resource accessible to all.

Today, CBMM is the only museum devoted to interpreting the entire maritime region of the Chesapeake, sharing the stories of Chesapeake people across time through historic structures, purpose-built exhibition buildings, a floating fleet of traditional vessels, and a working Shipyard.

CBMM will share the journey through its video series highlighting key themes across the 60 years. The initial installment, available now, delves into CBMM’s collections and how it cares for more than 90,000 artifacts while spotlighting the storytelling about the 1879 Hooper Strait Lighthouse through the eyes of the family of former assistant keeper Harold Messick.

Future chapters will celebrate 60 years of education, exploration, preservation, tradition, and community building. The monthly features will highlight CBMM’s historical archives and introduce community members to share their stories.

“It’s great to reflect on our progress in collecting and interpreting the culture of this place while some of our original supporters are still with us,” CBMM’s Chief Historian Pete Lesher said. “The museum itself, the number of lives we touch, and the tourism economy that we anchor have grown beyond anything they could have imagined 60 years ago.”

CBMM members become a part of the Chesapeake story, joining CBMM’s mission as stewards of the region’s rich cultural heritage. To discover all the terrific benefits of membership and join today, visit cbmm.org/memberships or contact Membership Services Coordinator Debbie Ruzicka at 410-745-4991 or [email protected].

To learn more about CBMM’s 60th anniversary celebration, visit cbmm.org/60thAnniversary.

Representatives from eighteen Mid-Shore non-profits will accept checks totaling $64,970 at the Women & Girls Fund’s 22nd Annual Grants & Awards Luncheon on April 28.  That will bring the Fund’s overall grant total to $967,006 awarded to 118 distinct organizations whose programs benefit women and girls in one or more of the five Mid-Shore counties of Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and Talbot.

The grants will go to 6 new organizations and 12 non-profits that have been awarded Women & Girls Fund grants at least once before.  New this year are: Allegro Academy; Building African American Minds; Chester Valley Ministers Association; Garfield Center for the Performing Arts; Hurlock Elementary School Girls on the Run; and, Tides of Grace.

Previous grant recipients receiving awards are: Aaron’s Place; Compass Hospice; Critchlow Adkins Children’s Centers; For All Seasons; Horizons of Kent and Queen Anne’s; Imagination Library of Talbot County; Mid-Shore Council on Family Violence; Open Doors Partners in Education; Pine Street Committee; Talbot Hospice; Talbot Interfaith Shelter; and, Tilghman Area Youth Association.

“The programs offered by our grant recipients focus on the significant issues facing women and girls,” said Allie Prell, Grants Committee chair.  “From education to developing healthy relationships to supporting families in crisis, they have the potential to create a positive change in our community and we are proud to be able to support their efforts.” 

In addition to bestowing the grants checks at the luncheon, the Women & Girls Fund Award and Sheryl V. Kerr Award will be presented to two extraordinary local women in recognition of their leadership, vision, integrity, and remarkable accomplishments benefitting Mid-Shore residents.

The Women & Girls Fund Award for 2025 will be presented to Kathy Deoudes, of Queenstown. A 30-year resident of Queen Anne’s County and past Board President of the Women & Girls Fund, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership through her professional career and extensive community service.  In her professional capacity, her decade of service as a legislative aide to State Senator E.J. Pipkin contributed to bringing the Shore Health Queen Anne’s Emergency Center to the county in 2007.  As the current Chair of the Board of Directors for UMMS/Shore Regional Health and through her volunteer work with numerous organizations, including the Mid-Shore Community Foundation and Compass Hospice, Deoudes has been a driving force in improving healthcare access and community development across the Mid-Shore. 

The 2025 recipient of the Sheryl V. Kerr Award is Beth Anne Dorman, of St. Michaels, President  & CEO of For All Seasons.  Under her leadership since 2014, For All Seasons has grown from a $1.4M operation with 24 employees to a vital behavioral health agency and rape crisis center with a $10,000,000 budget and nearly 100 employees, with 60,000 services a year to 3,500 people. Her work establishing sexual assault response programs, developing mental health resources, and expanding access to mental health services has transformed the landscape of healthcare services on the Eastern Shore.

“Our award recipients are tireless advocates for Mid-Shore women and children through their professional careers and volunteer service.  Our grant recipients address a wide variety of critical needs facing women and girls,” said Beth Spurry, president of the Women & Girls Fund Board of Directors.  “We are pleased to bring our donors and friends together with this year’s recipients at the annual luncheon so they can see their dollars are going to real people doing great things.”  

The Grants & Awards Luncheon will be held on Monday, April 28, 11:30am, at The Tidewater Inn Gold Room in Easton.  Ticket price is $65 per person.  The event is open to the public.  Space limited.  Registration deadline is April 14.  To make a reservation or for more information, call 410-770-8347, email [email protected] or visit www.womenandgirlsfund.org.