Malachowski Family

Alison, Jim, and Jimmy Malachowski have been integral to the Bear Branch Nature Center (BBNC) community since its inception, playing significant roles in shaping the center’s educational and natural exhibits. Their collective passion and dedication to environmental education, wildlife, and community engagement have left a lasting legacy.

Jimmy’s journey with BBNC began at a young age, with his love for insects and spiders inspiring him to start volunteering at the age of 8. His deep knowledge of entomology quickly became an asset to the staff, who frequently relied on him for species identification. Jimmy’s passion led him to pilot various entomology programs, such as representing BBNC at AG Day, teaching at Envirothon, and delivering the popular Arachnophobia class at BBNC. His Maryland State Fair Grand Champion entomology collection remains on display at the center, a testament to his dedication. Tragically, in March 2011, Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Jimmy Malachowski was killed in action in Afghanistan. In his honor, the Blacksmiths Guild at the Farm Museum, led by Ted McNett, forged a Luna Moth Memorial in 2017, which stands where Jimmy once held his nighttime moth-catching class.

Their longstanding involvement and contributions to BBNC and HEC demonstrate their unwavering commitment to environmental education and community service, making Alison, Jim, and Jimmy Malachowski truly deserving of Hall of Fame recognition.

Toni Chiavacci

Tony Chiavacci has been an invaluable volunteer with the Westminster Area Recreation Council (WARC) for over two decades, dedicating his time and leadership to enhancing the organization and its programs. His commitment to the community, particularly through his involvement in lacrosse, has left a lasting impact on countless athletes and families.

As an instrumental leader of the Westminster Area Lacrosse program, which he helped establish over 20 years ago, Tony has been a driving force in the development of the sport in the area. His leadership extended to the role of president of WARC, a position he held for more than 12 years. In this capacity, he mento red numerous program presidents and coordinators, guiding them in building strong, sustainable youth programs.

Even after stepping down as president, Tony continues to serve on the WARC board as a member-at-large, providing valuable insights and support to the organization. His dedication to the community also extends to Gina’s Warriors Lacrosse Play Day, an event supported by the Gina Maria Barnes Warriors Foundation. Established in 2014, the foundation provides scholarships to female senior lacrosse players in Carroll County who plan to continue playing in college.

Tony Chiavacci’s decades of service and leadership have helped shape the Westminster Area Recreation Council into a thriving organization. His contributions, mentorship, and support for young athletes make him a deserving candidate for Hall of Fame recognition.

Brad Rockwood

Brad Rockwood has dedicated over 33 years to serving the Carroll County recreation community, making a significant impact through his leadership, coaching, and program development. His commitment to local sports and recreation councils has shaped numerous programs and left a lasting legacy.

As a coach, Brad guided both baseball and softball teams, nurturing young athletes and instilling in them the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. In 1995, he founded the rugby program with the New Windsor Recreation Council, a groundbreaking initiative that has since expanded to national and international involvement, elevating the sport in the community and beyond.

Brad’s contributions also include his work to improve and maintain the fields at Bark Hill Park, ensuring they remain a quality space for youth sports. His dedication to field maintenance has supported countless games and practices over the years.

In addition to his work on the field, Brad played a key role in the formation of the West Carroll Recreation Council and has spent many years serving on their board, helping to shape the direction of youth and community programs. His leadership extended to his service on the Carroll County Department of Recreation and Parks Advisory Board, where his insights and experience helped guide important decisions for the county’s recreation initiatives.

Brad Rockwood’s decades-long dedication to recreation and youth sports have made him a pillar of the community, and his contributions make him a deserving candidate for Hall of Fame recognition.