Maryland's circuit courts are set to commemorate National Adoption Day on November 19, 2022, with a series of in-person and virtual events aimed at honoring adoptive families and raising awareness about the need for permanent homes for children in foster care. Media representatives are invited to attend these events either physically or through Zoom for Government.
In Anne Arundel County, Administrative Judge Glenn L. Klavans will preside over an adoption hearing on November 17 at 9 a.m. in Courtroom 4C, followed by a small celebration for the family involved. Andrea Parks is the contact person for media RSVPs.
Baltimore City will hold its 16th National Adoption Day ceremony on November 19 at 10 a.m. in Courtroom 400 of the Mitchell Courthouse. The event will be led by Administrative Judge Audrey J.S. Carriόn, Judge Emanuel Brown, and Judge Michael DiPietro, with ten families adopting fifteen children. Judge Myshala M. Middleton will serve as guest speaker, and Karen Fast is the media contact.
In Baltimore County, six families will finalize adoptions for eight children during a ceremony on November 19 at 11 a.m., hosted by the Baltimore County Bar Association alongside the Circuit Court and Department of Social Services. Judges Sherrie Bailey and retired Judge John Hennegan will officiate, with Rachel Ruocco handling media inquiries.
Harford County's first National Adoption Day celebration takes place on November 17 at 9 a.m., presided over by Administrative Judge Yolanda L. Curtin and Senior Judge William O. Carr. The event includes various stakeholders from social services to community leaders and is followed by a reception organized by the Department of Social Services. Debbie Bliss is available for media RSVPs.
Montgomery County's proceedings on November 18 involve nine children across seven families. Administrative Judge James A. Bonifant and Judge Joan E. Ryon will lead public ceremonies, while private ceremonies throughout the day feature Senior Judge Katherine D. Savage and Judge Harry C. Storm upon request from participating families. Angela Yoo is coordinating media attendance.
These events collectively aim to highlight adoption efforts within Maryland's judicial system while celebrating new family formations.