The Benedictine Foundation’s Chrome City Fundraiser, which took place on Sunday, July 30^th, raised over $100,000 to support the children and adults living with developmental disabilities that Benedictine serves.

“Chrome City continues to be a much anticipated event for Benedictine every summer. Our supported adults, students at the Benedictine School, staff members, and families look forward to a day of comradery and fun that includes watching the cars and motorcycles roll down the mile-long lane on our Ridgely campus. Couple that with the opportunity for the community to join us and support Benedictine’s mission makes for a perfect day – and this year’s weather really did make it a perfect day!” stated Benedictine Executive Director Scott Evans.

Hundreds of motorcycles, hot rods, classic, custom and vintage cars and over 600 people attended the 21^st annual Chrome City Fundraiser. Marking its 21^st year, the event continues to provide an opportunity to support Benedictine and its critical services and visit the campus all while enjoying a vast collection of cars and motorcycles.

“This year’s Chrome City supporters were blessed with a perfect day and a wonderful crowd of participants, supporters and Benedictine friends and family members. As in past years, the cars, street rods and motorcycles were awesome and continue to bring so much excitement to the Benedictine campus. Thank you to everyone for their support and attendance,” commented Spud Blake, founder and past committee chair.

Sponsors of this year’s Chrome City include:  Draper Media, Spicer Brothers, Brandon Becker, A. H. Hatcher, Inc., Bette Kenzie, The Marshall Family, Mark Burkhalter, American Legion Post 29 – Denton, The Mallas Family, Clark Associates Financial Planning, Inc., Grimm + Parker Architects, Preston Automotive, The Jetty Restaurant, M&T Bank, Marasun Roofing, Marty Mows, R&M Performance, Tri Gas and Oil, Hilb Group Mid-Atlantic, Blanchett Concrete, Mooney Builds, Outback Steakhouse, PRS Guitar, Pepsi Bottling, Association of Maryland Pilots, Chris Dorr Photography. Chrome City was also supported by numerous families, friends and staff.

“The generosity of Benedictine’s Chrome City sponsors and donors demonstrates the importance of the work our organization does to support developmentally disabled children and adults,” commented Claudia Cunningham, Chief Advancement Officer. “Everything about this special day is uplifting and touches lives in profound ways.”

For more information about Benedictine and how you can support this organization, please contact Claudia Cunningham, Chief Advancement Officer at [email protected] or call 410. 634.2292. Visit Benedictine at www.benschool.org.

In a heartwarming celebration of unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership, Wye River Upper School takes immense pride in honoring three distinguished individuals who have left an indelible mark on our institution. We extend our deepest gratitude to Clay Railey, former Secretary; Elizabeth Hackett, Chair of the Development Committee; and Addie Eckardt, for their invaluable years of service on the Board of Trustees.

Throughout their tenures, Clay, Elizabeth, and Addie have been instrumental in driving Wye River Upper School’s mission forward and elevating the educational experience of our students. Their passion, dedication, and unyielding support have been pivotal in helping us fulfill our commitment to empowering bright minds and fostering an inclusive learning environment. Their combined expertise and unyielding belief in the power of education have set an unparalleled standard for board service. The impact of their collective efforts can be witnessed in the lives of countless students who have graduated from Wye River Upper School with newfound confidence, knowledge, and a sense of purpose.

As our former Secretary, Clay Railey demonstrated exemplary leadership and an unparalleled commitment to advancing our institution’s values. His steadfast advocacy for accessible education and innovative initiatives has laid the groundwork for Wye River Upper School’s continued growth and success.

As Chair of the Development Committee, Elizabeth Hackett has been the driving force behind numerous transformative projects that have strengthened our school’s foundation. Her profound understanding of philanthropy and passion for educational excellence has fueled our ability to create a lasting impact within our community.

Addie Eckardt’s invaluable contributions as a dedicated member of the Board have been a beacon of inspiration for all. Her dedication to the betterment of education and the welfare of our students has been evident in every decision she made. Addie’s leadership has guided us through challenges and triumphs, strengthening our institution and making it more resilient.

On behalf of the entire Wye River Upper School community, we sincerely thank Clay Railey, Elizabeth Hackett, and Addie Eckardt. As you step down from your positions on the Board of Trustees, know that your legacy will endure in the lives of our students, faculty, and staff and the continued success of our institution.

About Wye River Upper School: Wye River Upper School, located in Centerville, MD, is a premier independent preparatory 8th – 12th-grade school dedicated to serving bright students who learn differently. Through individualized instruction, comprehensive support, and a nurturing community, the school empowers students with learning differences to achieve their full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. Wye River Upper School is recognized for its commitment to providing an inclusive environment fostering growth, resilience, and success.

For media inquiries, please contact Katie Lillard, Dir. of Enrollment and Communications, [email protected], 443.262.8267.

Would you like to learn about artificial intelligence or how to protect yourself from fraud and identity theft? Perhaps you would like to join a book club, a fitness class or a walking group. If you are interested in science and the environment, you can learn about coral reefs or the history of Poplar Island. Or you can participate in discussions about current events, or choose from a large variety of hands-on crafting projects.  

The Institute for Adult Learning, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide learning experiences and social events which enrich the lives of the age 50+ community in the Mid-Shore area, will hold a Showcase of Classes for the fall semester on Wednesday, August 9, at the Kennard Cultural Center, located at 410 Little Kidwell Avenue in Centreville, Md. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 2:00 p.m.  

The Showcase will provide an overview of 46 courses to be offered during the fall semester, which runs from September 6 through December 15, in categories such as brain, body and soul; history and current events; local environment and science; literature, arts and crafts; and culinary arts. All classes are held during the day, Monday through Friday, and range from one to six sessions.

The membership fee of $90 per person per semester entitles participants to sign up for an unlimited number of courses. Members are also invited to participate in monthly happy hours and various field trips throughout the semester. Trips planned for the fall semester include a cruise on the Miles River in St. Michaels, points of interest in Annapolis history and politics, and Mount Harmon Plantation.

“Our organization strives to cultivate a culture of connection which is vitally important to aging well, as documented by numerous studies,” says Janet Crutchley, curriculum chairperson. “Our members appreciate the opportunities we provide to socialize with like-minded people as much as they enjoy learning about a wide range of topics.”

Attendees may join the IAL and enroll in classes either at the Showcase or on the organization’s website after the event. Registration to attend the event is not required but is recommended by sending an email to info@instituteforadultlearning.org.

For more information about the IAL, visit the IAL website at www.instituteforadultlearning.org.