Message from Acting Secretary Ross Cohen:

Dear Friends, I have been traveling the state the last few weeks, meeting with many of you and learning from you about issues of importance to Veterans and military families in Maryland. Yesterday we observed Women Veterans Recognition Day which recognizes the anniversary of the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act. I was pleased to attend the DVMF celebration for Women Veterans on June 5th at American Legion Post 136 in Greenbelt and honor women who served. Earlier this week, I visited the Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) facility along with Secretary Roques from the Maryland Department of Aging and Secretary Beatty from the Maryland Department of Disabilities to learn more about the work CRAB does with recovering warriors and other Maryland citizens. This is also the time of year when many of the Veteran Service Organizations hold their annual conventions, and I attended both the Disabled American Veterans and the Veterans of Foreign Wars gatherings.  It was a privilege to meet with so many who have served. These are just a few of the opportunities I have had to hear from you and your military-connected colleagues across Maryland, as we continue to grow the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families. Sincerely, Ross

Acting Secretary Ross Cohen addresses those attending the DVMF Women Veterans Recognition event in the top photo. In the middle photo are: DVMF Acting Secretary Cohen, Maryland Delegate Mike Rogers, Roslyn Jones, DVMF Women Veteran/Inclusion Program Manager, Major General Birckhead, Maryland National Guard and Ms. Jacquelyn Hayes-Byrd, Executive Director of the VA Center for Women Veterans. The final photo is of Women Veterans networking and enjoying the event.

Thank you to Maryland Veterans Commissioner Mike Moore and the members of American Legion Post 136 in Greenbelt for hosting the event.

In this photo taken at Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating are from left to right: Secretary Beatty, MD Department of Disabilities, Paul Bollinger, CRAB President & CEO, Beth Rossman, CRAB Board Member, Will Crump, CRAB Board Member, Secretary Roques, MD Department of Aging and DVMF Acting Secretary Cohen.

DVMF Acting Secretary Ross Cohen attended the 105th VFW Department of Maryland Annual Convention.  In this photo, he is presenting Governor's Citations to outgoing Department of Maryland Commander Joe Cicchillo and outgoing Auxiliary President Debbie Sturgis.

DVMF Service and Benefits staff worked with the United States Department of Veterans Affairs staff this week at a claims clinic. The claims clinic was held at Anne Arundel Community College and provided an opportunity for Veterans to file their claims at the event, as well as talk with resource providers. 

If you need assistance with your benefits or have questions regarding your eligibility, please contact one of the DVMF offices to schedule an appointment.

Representatives of Warrior Canine Connection and DVMF both attended a Baltimore Veterans Treatment Court session.  In this photo are Rick Yount, Warrior Canine Connection (WCC), Toni Gianforti, DVMF Grant Specialist, Heather Giraldes, Executive Director, DVMF Veterans Trust Fund, and Jennifer Wilder, WCC Director of Development.  Warrior Canine Connection received a grant from the DVMF MD Veterans Service Animal Program.

DVMF IN THE NEWS

DVMF stories and articles from around the state:

AARP and DVMF Brain Health Broadcast

For more news and DVMF Press Releases

DVMF Website

Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and DVMF Secretary Ross Cohen toured two Veteran-owned businesses in St. Mary's County recently as part of the Comptroller's economic tour of the county.  Both Platform Aerospace and Tobacco Barn Distillery are owned by Veterans.  Other stops on the tour included the St. Mary's County Chamber of Commerce, College of Southern Maryland and other businesses.

News from the Maryland Department of Aging:

June is Alzheimer's Awareness Month. As Alzheimer’s and other dementias affect more older adults in Maryland, it’s essential to strengthen policies and resources for comprehensive care and support. Early detection is key, and the free AD8: Washington University Dementia Screening Test is now available on Maryland Access Point (MAP) to help identify signs of cognitive decline. Individuals, caregivers, and health care providers can access AD8 at marylandaccesspoint.211md.org, with trained MAP counselors ready to assist. Maryland’s Caregiver Navigation Grant initiative further supports families by improving access to resources, guiding care decisions, and providing essential dementia care information. Visit MDOA's Brain Health page for more details at aging.maryland.gov. Loneliness Awareness Week Loneliness Awareness Week, from June 9-15, 2025, reminds us that loneliness can be particularly challenging for older adults who may be isolated, leading to physical and mental health risks, like depression, cognitive decline, and increased vulnerability to chronic illnesses. During the 2025 legislative session, legislation was passed that expands the methods of communication that can be used as part of MDOA's Senior Call Check service. The renamed Senior Call Check and Social Connections Program is expected to increase participation, reduce social isolation, and enhance well-being for more older Marylanders. Visit SeniorCallCheck.Maryland.gov for more information.

Brigadier General Craig Hunter of the Maryland National Guard (right) presents Governor Moore's Army 250th Birthday Proclamation to Harford County Executive Robert Cassilly (left).  This event kicked off a week long celebration which concludes with the Army 250th Birthday Dinner Dance tomorrow night.

Pikesville Armory Update:

The renovation of the historic NCO Club at the Pikesville Armory has been completed! The Pikesville Armory will continue to be a home for veterans! As the Pikesville Armory Foundation moves forward with the next phases in the transformation of this historic decommissioned military site in the heart of northwest Baltimore, reimagining it as an art infused intergenerational community space for all; eight veterans' groups that have met here for decades will be coming back to meet here again. 

We have fun family-friendly events coming up at the Pikesville Armory: 

Jazz at the Pikesville Armory (June 18, July 2 and July 16):

https://transformpikesvillearmory.org/jazz

Music for All Minds (June 29):

https://transformpikesvillearmory.org/musicforallminds

Taste of Northwest (August 10):

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-northwest-2025-tickets-1246683065609?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

News from Maryland Department of Natural Resources:

The ‘Free State’ Offers Opportunities for Low- or No-Cost Fishing

Whether someone is just dipping a line for the first time or ready to jump back into the hobby of fishing, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the chance to enjoy the thrill of a catch without spending a lot of money. In addition to license free fishing days June 7 and 14 and July 4, DNR provides numerous opportunities to fish for free or borrow gear. Read more.

Maryland Park Service Reinstates Maryland Conservation Corps After Federal Cuts Threatened Program

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Maryland Park Service have reactivated 17 members of the Maryland Conservation Corps, who were demobilized in late April after a sudden termination of grant funds by the federal program supporting it. The department reinstated the MCC program with state funding.  Read more.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Rolling out New Licensing System, MD Outdoors

MD Outdoors will go live on June 24. This upgraded, centralized system offers access to all Maryland hunting and fishing licenses and associated stamps and permits, boat and off-road vehicle renewal registration, and other services. Read more. 

Now in its 13th year, the state’s official Ice Cream Trail features 14 dairies that produce and serve farm-fresh ice cream. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has identified recommended trails near each creamery. Visitors can win prizes by checking in at the various locations, with the chance to win a grand prize if they hit all of them. This year’s Ice Cream Trail features new creameries, a fresh lineup of trails (including a biking route and adventure course!), exciting prizes, and, of course, lots of farm-fresh ice cream!  Read more on our Hike the Ice Cream Trail webpage.

Ft. George G. Meade celebrated the Community Covenant signing and the Army's 250th birthday at a ceremony recently.  This photo includes many of the elected officials and community group representatives who support the mission of Ft. George G. Meade.  DVMF Acting Secretary Ross Cohen (not shown in this photo) was a signer of the Community Covenant.

Federal News

Healthy eating can improve mental health

Digital solutions for Veterans with limb loss

Breaking the link between homelessness and suicide

Suicide Prevention: Veterans Crisis Line

June is PTSD Awareness Month: Learn the PTSD Basics

Live Whole Health #275: Connecting with balance

Live Whole Health #276: At your fingertips

How VA is advancing health care for women Veterans

Recording of VA Maryland Health Care System Women Veterans Public Forum

VA to award $16 million in grant funding for adaptive sports and equine therapy for disabled Veterans

June 15th: World Elder Abuse Day

June 18th: Wellness Wednesday, Your Social Security Benefits

Find your outdoor adventure

Blue Star Families: Participate in the 2025 Military Family Lifestyle Survey

Beware of Medicare Scams

National Resource Directory

Veterans invited to celebrate U.S. Army's 250th birthday

For Your Information

The Maryland Department of Veterans & Military Families does not endorse the organizations sponsoring these events, and we do not endorse the views they express or the products/services they offer.  The views and opinions expressed in any referenced document do not necessarily state or reflect those of DVMF.  The information provided is intended for your general knowledge only, and serves solely as a DVMF community outreach effort.

Community Calendar

June 13, 2025

Ft. Meade: Army's 250th Birthday Red, White & Blue Celebration

June 14, 2025

U.S. Army Birthday Ball at Ft. Meade

2025 PVA Colonial Pickleball Tournament, Perry Point VAMC, continues on June 15th

Joint Veterans Committee Veteran of the Year Recognition, Annapolis

Platoon 22 Salute & Serve Family Event, Sabillasville, Register

101.5 Bob Rocks .1K Run for Veterans benefitting Platoon 22, Hagerstown

Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Family Paddle, Chancellor's Point Park, St. Mary's City, Register

Casting Hope: NAS Patuxent River Suicide Prevention Awareness Fishing Event, Lexington Park

June 16, 2025

Veterans Medicare 101, Severn Library

June 17, 2025

Help, Healing and Hope Summit 2025, Arnold, Register

Doing Business with Maryland Casinos, Hanover

June 17 & 18, 2025

Maryland Defense Forum, Linthicum

Serving Together Caregiver Connect, Virtual

June 18, 2025

IN WAVES AND WAR, Navy Seal Film Screening, Annapolis

Veteran Employment & Resource Day, White Plains

Veterans Advisory Council Public Meeting, Frederick

Women Veteran Wednesday offered by Easterseals, Virtual, Register

June 20, 2025

Veterans Medicare 101, Severn Library

Golf Tournament to benefit Platoon 22, Thurmont

June 21, 2025

VA Disability Claims Seminar, Bowie, Register

Team River Runner: Kayaking for Veterans Family Paddle, Smallwood State Park, Marbury, Register

Veteran Family Fun Day, Burkittsville

Wellness Clinic, Platoon 22, Frederick

June 23, 2025

At Ease - Healing Through Yoga, Mediation and Community, Chestertown

Veteran & Community Mini Job Fair, Randallstown

June 24, 2025

Silver Spring Vet Center Open House, Silver Spring

Strategies for Digital Marketing for Small, Minority, Women and Veteran Owned Businesses, Virtual

Maryland Cyber/T Recruitment Event, Annapolis

June 25, 2025

Prince George's County Base Camp, Virtual

June 26, 2025

DC Employment Connect, U.S. Navy Memorial, Washington, DC

June 27, 2025

Serving Together offering Mental Health First Aid training, Frederick, Flier

Start your next career- employment workshop for Veterans and spouses, Silver Spring

June 28, 2025

CRAB: Military Sailing Days, Annapolis

Community News

Community rallies to preserve Knoxville African American Cemetery in Frederick County, Unheard Voices article

Soldiers' Angels is opening a monthly military and Veteran food event in Washington DC, serving those in the DMV area.

IN WAVES AND WAR, a Navy Seal film is coming to Annapolis, Tuesday, June 18th. 

Press Release, Trailer, Tickets

Three Navy SEALs leave their tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan with treatment-resistant,

unrelenting psychological pain. They find themselves at the cutting edge of a different frontline:

a lifesaving psychedelic therapy that brings healing to a community in urgent need.

Women Veteran Wednesday Virtual Info Session, happening on Wednesday, June 18th from 10:00-11:00 AM (ET). This virtual session will highlight Easterseals' support services for women veterans and will feature a guest speaker from Operation Second Chance, offering practical resources and insight. Event Details:  

Date: Wednesday, June 18th  

Time: 10:00-11:00 AM (Eastern Time)  

Location: Virtual (Teams link will be shared after registration)  

Registration

News from Community Building Art Works:

Visual Art Programs - Wednesdays 7pm EST (Virtual) Interested in visual art? Every Wednesday, join Veterans and Artists, Valerie Acosta, Shaun Smith and Joe Merritt to learn something new. This month, with the help of the Rockville Maryland Plaza Art, we have a special guest artist from Liquitex, Brandy Antonio. Join us on Wednesday, February 12th at 7pm EST where participants will be introduced to the acrylic brand, Liquitex, who has been at the forefront of innovation for 70 years. The Liquitex mediums range offers a host of innovative possibilities to meet the aesthetic needs of every artist. This demo with Brandy Antonio is all about getting people excited about the endless possibilities of acrylic mediums so they can go right into the studio with tons of new ideas. Attendees will learn what mediums are, how they can change the inherent characteristics of acrylic color to meet each artist's vision, and which mediums are a must-have in Brandy’s practice. Come with all of your acrylic mediums questions for an exciting demo with an incredibly fun artist/educator. Check out Plaza’s website to purchase some mediums to explore with. Learn more about Visual Art Programs and register HERE.

Writing Workshop with Seema Reza - Fridays at 12pm EST (Virtual) Join CBAW CEO/Founder and poet, Seema Reza, every Friday at 12pm EST for to learn a tool for communication, expression, and relief from holding it all together. No experience needed! Register HERE.

More Than One Story - Next Virtual Orientations - Feb 11th & Mar 11th (Virtual)

Join Community Building Art Works in a virtual orientation session to learn more about our program for women and non-binary military (Active Duty and Veterans), More Than One Story. This monthly program uses live, interactive online art and creative writing workshops to create a “Virtual Community Center” where women and non-binary military members gather and experience belonging in a healthy, safe, and connected environment. Individuals interested in participating in MTOS are required to attend one Orientation Session. Additional Orientation dates are forthcoming. Visit www.cbaw.org/mtos for more details. This program is partially funded by the SSG Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program through the VA.

Visit www.cbaw.org to learn more about Community Building Art Works. For more information, email info@cbaw.org

Blue Star Families, a recipient of the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program from the VA, provides community-based suicide preventions efforts to meet the needs of Veterans, service members, and their families and caregivers.

Blue Star Support Circles | Upstream Solutions to Crisis offers facilitated, non-clinical closed-group cohorts for supporters of Veterans and service members. Over eight weeks, participants engage in virtual sessions designed to foster peer-based connections, deliver evidence-based training, and provide resources and referrals. The program empowers participants to effectively support their Veterans or service members. Read More Here

Register now for JTCC’s free summer adaptive tennis programming! Classes are filling quickly and kick off soon, so don’t miss your chance to get on court this season.

Register Now: https://jtccregister.org/adaptive 

Whether you're new to tennis or training for competition, there’s something for everyone:

• Para Standing Tennis– Skills & Drills(Saturdays) and Matchplay & Strategy (Sundays)
• Wheelchair Tennis– Classes for juniors, beginners, and tournament-level players
• Special Olympics Tennis– Beginner and advanced sessions with new summer times
• ACEing Autism– Saturday morning classes for youth with autism
• Veterans Tennis Corps– Skill-building and social play for active duty & retired service members
• Intermediate & Advanced Adaptive Matchplay– Mondays for players ready to level up

Registered players will receive calendar invites to keep things organized. If you’re not sure which class is the best fit, just reach out and we’ll help you find your match!

Let’s make this the best summer yet – bring a friend and join us on court!

Register Now: https://jtccregister.org/adaptive 

Future Events: Save the Date

July 18, 2025: Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic, Platoon 22, Frederick, Call 240-651-8897 to make your appointment

July 19, 2025: 2nd Annual Veterans Appreciation Day, Frederick, Watch video

July 24, 2025: National Hire a Veteran Day event, Arundel Mills, Flier, Register

July 30, 2025: CRAB: Military Sailing Days, Annapolis

September 17, 2025: Ft. Meade Community Job Fair, Ft. Meade

September 27, 2025: A Day at Ease, Union Bridge

September 27, 2025: Veteran Owned Small Business Expo, Columbia

Message for New Subscribers:

Is this your first edition of the DVMF newsletter?  If so, welcome!  You are receiving this newsletter because you signed up to receive it from our website or you gave permission to an DVMF program, the MD Motor Vehicle Administration or MD Department of Labor to receive information on VA benefits and resources.  We at DVMF respect your privacy and DO NOT share your email address.  We hope you enjoy receiving our bi-weekly newsletter and find it both educational and engaging.  If you have questions about our Department, our Programs, or your VA benefits, please visit veterans.maryland.gov or call 410-260-3838.