CCAN’s first annual MD Climate Champions Awards Ceremony was a resounding success. The highlight of the night may have been when House Majority Leader Kumar Barve, upon receiving his award, thanked CCAN Director Mike Tidwell by jokingly describing him as a “warm and fuzzy zealot.” Nearly 200 people turned out on a rainy Tuesday to eat, drink, celebrate Maryland’s many clean energy victories, and honor those who made those victories possible.

Betsy Taylor received the first award. Betsy has dedicated her remarkable career to promoting social justice and environmental stewardship. She founded and served as director of The Center for a New American Dream. In 2007 she founded and now serves on the board of 1Sky. She’s also an author and has worked with a wide range of philanthropies to guide resources to good causes, especially climate protection.

Jennifer Stanley accepted the next award on behalf of both her and her husband, Ted. The Stanleys have for many years been leading supporters of environmental protection – including strong action on climate change – through their philanthropy. Their foundation, the Town Creek Foundation located in Easton, Maryland, funds much of CCAN’s work, including Earthbeat Radio.

George Leventhal came next. As a Mongtomery County Councilmember, George has achieved many clean energy successes in the past six years. He pioneered the campaign to switch county government buildings