Friends of The Jones Falls gathered on Sep. 7th to honor the legendary Sen. Ben Cardin— the Inaugural Champion of the Jones Falls. WYPR “Midday” show host, Tom Hall, enthusiastically offered insight into the Senator’s dedication and persistence.
Delegate Regina T. Boyce (District 43A), Ex Officio FTJF Board Member, then formally introduced the Senator: “As he turns the page on this chapter of his life, we all wonder what he will do next.” His wife of 60 years, Myrna, could be heard retorting, “Yeah, I’d like to know too.” Laughter spread. Boyce continued, “Celebrating this effective, long-suffering, dedicated leader, especially a leader that supports and fights for our waterways, the environment, our natural resources, and our beloved Chesapeake Bay, we say a big thank you!”
Over 100 well-wishers offered Sen. Cardin a hearty round of applause for his decades of legislative service dedicated to clean water and environment protections, from the Maryland State House to the U. S. Senate. He reflected on the critical role of his home, the Jones Falls Valley, to the well-being of Baltimore, and the recent progress in environmental initiatives and funding by the Biden Administration. In presenting the first Champion of the Jones Falls award, Friends of The Jones Falls President Sandy Sparks recalled Sen. Cardin 20 years ago winning $1.5 million in Federal funding for Baltimore City to construct the first segment of the Jones Falls Trail from Penn Station along Falls Road to Wyman Park Drive.
The evening at Whitehall Mill’s Penguin Room was a huge success with everyone enjoying the raw oyster bar and other tasty hors d’oeuvres catered by True Chesapeake Oyster Co., the restaurant just a few steps down the hall. The bar featured a Sen. Cardin margarita welcome cocktail and beer and wine donated by Union Craft and area spirits shops.
Many thanks to our generous Whitehall Mill host, David Tufaro, and many Business Sponsors for their strong financial support. And, kudos to the Steering Committee: Chair Maggie McIntosh, Co-Chair Nan Rohrer, Dawna Cobb, Ethan Cohen, Carol Gram Davis, Kate Foster, Phil Lee, Mary Page Michel, Salem Reiner, Sandy Sparks and Matt Stegman.
Please link to great event photos for viewing and purchase here. Thanks to all who bought tickets and made contributions!
-Sandy Sparks, FTJF President
Friends of The Jones Falls 