There is always something new and different taking place in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay. You can help pass the word along to you readers, listeners and viewers by visiting this page often, or by signing up for News Updates via email! 

 

Fall / Winter 2011
 

New Events

Haunted Ghost Tours—Historic Annapolis Foundation (HAF) and Watermark Tours. Charters. Cruises. have teamed up to offer Haunted Ghost Tours through historic Annapolis on Friday and Saturday evenings from September 2 through October 29. Special Halloween tours will also be held on Sunday and Monday, October 30 and 31. The two-hour tours depart at 7:30 p.m. from the HAF Museum Store at 77 Main Street. 410-268-7601, ext. 100, www.watermarkjourney.com.

U.S. Naval Academy Commissioning—The U.S. Naval Academy Commissioning ceremonies for the 2012 graduating class will be held May 29, the Tuesday after Memorial Day. This is a departure from the traditional Friday before Memorial Day commissioning. The Blue Angels will not be performing in Annapolis during the 2012 commissioning week, due to previous commitments. 410-293-1520, www.usna.edu.
 

What’s New with Attractions

Annapolis Food Tours—In January 2011, Annapolis Food Tours purchased Capital City Colonials, and took food tours to a new level with their Annapolis Food and History Tours. Tour participants can now enjoy specially created small plate dishes as they stroll from restaurant to restaurant. The tours connect the cuisine with the chefs, restaurants, history, and culture of the area. In June, the company launched an Evening Dine Around, a fully customizable tour that features a six-course progressive meal at three different restaurants. The company soon will be offering a food tour that ties in with War of 1812 and Civil War commemorations. 202-683-8847, www.FoodTourCorp.com.

Annapolis Sailing Cruises: Schooner Woodwind and Woodwind II—In the summer of 2011, the Schooner Woodwind partnered with Historic Annapolis Foundation (HAF) to bring a bit of history to some of its Monday evening cruises. Every other Monday through September, a guest speaker from Historic Annapolis Foundation brings the history, lore, and intrigue of Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay alive for individuals taking a sunset sail aboard the 74’ wooden schooner. For guests who aren’t able to make one of the HAF cruises, every other Monday features Woodwind’s own Miss Pat, an 18th-century working woman in full period costume. 410-263-7837, www.schoonerwoodwind.com.

Ballet Theatre of Maryland—Maryland’s only professional ballet company is scheduled to officially open its new Merrit Annex at 1981 Moreland Parkway, Bay 4, in Annapolis on Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. Annapolis Mayor Joshua Cohen and Councilperson Classie Hoyle have been invited to speak and participate in a ribbon cutting for the 5,400 square foot studio that has been in operation since April 2011. Founded as the Ballet Theatre of Annapolis in 1978, The Ballet Theatre of Maryland has additional facilities at the Chesapeake Arts Center in Brooklyn Park and at the Academy Art Museum in Easton. 410-224-5644, www.balletmaryland.org.

Compass Rose Studio Theater—The non-profit professional acting studio and theater company opened in Eastport in the spring of 2011. It offers professional performances and theater education for all ages. Compass Rose offers after-school residencies and arts integrated programming in schools throughout Anne Arundel County. It partners with Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts and the Chesapeake Arts Center in its quest to bring the joy of theater to all. The first show of the theater’s fall season, Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon, opens October 21, 2011. 410-980-6662, www.compassrosetheater.org.

GreenPedals—Renting an electric bike in Annapolis just got easier. In the summer of 2011, Green Pedals moved from McGukian Street in Annapolis to 105-B Annapolis Street in West Annapolis. Visitors can rent bikes in the cycle-friendly neighborhood for as little as two hours. In addition to repairing bikes, the West Annapolis shop also sells a variety of light electric vehicles including bikes, scooters, and skateboards. The store is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. 410-280-5005, www.green-pedals.com.

Infinity Theatre Company—Founded in 2010 by theatre professionals Anna Roberts Ostroff and Alan Ostroff, the company brought its first full summer season of professional New York City theatre to Annapolis in 2011. Infinity brings together a high quality team of directors, designers, actors, and technicians from New York City. Its performances are held at the Children's Theatre of Annapolis at 1661 Bay Head Road. 877-501-8499, www.infinitytheatrecompany.com

Maryland Live!—The first phase of Maryland Live! Casino at Arundel Mills is scheduled for completion in June 2012. The largest gaming facility in Maryland will feature 4,750 slot and electric table games, including black jack, roulette, craps and poker. The second phase of construction will include several upscale dining establishments and an intimate live music venue. It is slated for completion by October 2012. The approximately 300,000 square foot casino is expected to enhance the Arundel Mills Commercial District, which is already the #1 tourist destination in Maryland. 410-572-5444, www.ppecasinoresortsmd.com.

Memories and Mementos—The Captain Salem Avery Museum, a National Historic Landmark that collects, preserves and shares local Chesapeake history, has a new major exhibit, Memories and Mementos: The History of Shady Side Schools from 1868 to 1978. Opened in April 2011, the free exhibit researched by the Shady Side Rural Heritage Society can be viewed during the museum’s regular operating hours: Sundays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 410-867-4486, www.shadysidemuseum.org.

Thanksgiving Farm Winery—Southern Anne Arundel County’s first winery opened in spring 2011. Its wines are made exclusively from grapes that are hand picked from the 58-acre vineyard. Owned and operated by Maureen and Doug Heimbuch, the winery focuses on producing a single, premium red wine made from a blend of Bordeaux – their Meritage wine. Visitors are invited to sample the wines in their tasting room on Sundays from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. 410-630-1511, www.thanksgivingfarm.com.
 

What’s New with Restaurants

Annapolis Grill—Located at the Westin Annapolis Hotel at 100 Westgate Circle, Annapolis Grill opened in summer 2011. It features a wide selection of classic American cuisine in an inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers a Champagne Brunch on Sundays. 410-216-6030, www.annapolisgrill.net.

Annapolis Towne Centre—Two new restaurants opened at the Annapolis Towne Centre in the summer of 2011. Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop and Zoe’s Kitchen, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, are part of the third phase of construction at the Towne Centre. Saladworks is slated to open in October 2011. It will offer made-to-order salads, soups and sandwiches. Also scheduled to open in the near future are: Flat Top Grill, a stir fry restaurant, and Qdoba Mexican Grill. These new restaurants add fast casual options to Annapolis Towne Centre’s dining scene. 410-573-9050, www.visitatc.com.

Chick & Ruth’s Delly—No matter where they might be in the country, individuals with a craving for Chick & Ruth’s jumbo lump crab cakes are never more than a day away from satisfying their taste buds. That’s because the restaurant has begun daily shipments of their half-pound crab cakes via UPS. Individuals can place their orders online or contact owner Ted Levitt between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily. Each crab cake is individually packaged and shipped uncooked, so they arrive at their destination fresh and ready to be enjoyed. 410-269-6737, www.ChickandRuths.com.

Crush Restaurant and Winehouse now offers a Girls’ Night Out special on the first Tuesdays of the month. Women enjoy half-price bottles of select wines all night. In May, Crush introduced new dinner and happy hour menus. 410-216-9444, www.crushwinehouse.com.

Factors Row—After being closed for nearly four years, the space once occupied by Riordan’s Saloon at 26 Market Space in Annapolis is expected to open as Factors Row restaurant by year’s end. The three-story restaurant will have approximately 169 seats. The building is the last remaining part of the original three-story Wallace, Davidson and Johnson Building, which was known as Factors Row. In Colonial days, British merchants, called factors, used it as a warehouse for storing produce before shipping it to England and Scotland. http://factorsrow.com.

Green Plate Special—In July 2011, the City of Annapolis launched a program that makes it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy locally sourced food while supporting local businesses. Participating restaurants use a Green Plate Special logo to identify dishes made with nearby ingredients. To be so designated, more than 50-percent of a menu item’s main ingredients must be locally sourced within 300 miles. The description of the dish must also include the source(s) of the ingredients. 410-263-7946, www.SustainableAnnapolis.com.

Grapes Wine Bar—Adjacent to Wine Cellars of Annapolis, Grapes Wine Bar, opened in April 2011. Handcrafted and boutique wines from all over the world can be enjoyed alongside creative small plates and bites made with fresh local ingredients. 410-571-5378, www.grapeswinebarannapolis.com.

Historic Kent Manor Inn—In May 2011, Chef William Lackey designed a casual bistro-style lunch menu that patrons are invited to enjoy on Saturday afternoons beginning at 11:00 a.m. with the last seating at 3:00 p.m. The menu changes weekly, enabling the chef to take advantage of the freshest local ingredients. Kent Manor’s long standing Sunday Brunch Buffet features an ever-changing selection of fresh cuisine beginning at 10:00 a.m., with the last seating at 2:00 p.m. 410-643-7716, www.kentmanor.com.

Honey’s Harvest Market & Deli—Honey’s Harvest opened at the Herrington Harbour South Marina Resort in July 2011. In addition to featuring locally harvested honey from local beekeepers and gluten-free breads and muffins, the store carries a wide selection of beers and wines and a variety of healthy groceries and sundries for the convenience of boaters and visitors. As much as possible, Honey’s Harvest features locally sourced products, including select seasonal produce, dairy, and artisan gifts. The market also hosts wine tastings on Monday evenings at 5:00 p.m. 410-257-7757, www.honeysharvest.com.

Jake’ s Wayback Burgers—A Delaware-based chain of old school burger diners is expected to open its second Maryland location in the fall of 2011 at the Annapolis Technology Park at the intersection of Riva Road and Harry S. Truman Parkway. The chain sells made-to-order hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and salads. www.waybackburgers.com.

Jamba Juice—Located in the concourse A/B food court at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, Jamba Juice opened in July 2011. With more than 700 locations around the country, it is a favorite stop for individuals seeking better-for-you beverages and foods. 410-859-7002, www.jambajuice.com.

Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop—Opened in spring 2011 at 139 Main Street in Annapolis, the shop specializes in 8” subs and giant club sandwiches on bread that is baked in-house. Their vegetables and additive-free meats are sliced fresh in-house daily. 410-280-3561, www.jimmyjohns.com.

Kahve Café and Catering opened in the South River Colony Shopping Center in Edgewater in June 2011. The new café offers a full line of coffee and espresso drinks, pastries and breakfast sandwiches, gourmet sandwiches and Paninis, and tasty desserts. Kahve also caters – from light breakfasts, to complete office lunches, to hors d’oeuvres for evening events. 443-837-6977, www.facebook.com/KahveCafe.

Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge—An August 2011 ribbon cutting marked the official opening of the bistro at 169 West Street in Annapolis. Each of the three floors has its own personality. Sophistication, cocktails and conversation can be found on the first floor; music and an upbeat atmosphere greet patrons on the second floor; and relaxation with open air dining awaits individuals on the third floor. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Metropolitan specializes in farm-to-table cooking. It strives to source ingredients from local farms and purveyors. 410-280-5160, www.metropolitanannapolis.com.

Pit Boys—In summer 2011, the local carry-out restaurant and caterer began operating the café at Quiet Waters Park. Specializing in pit beef, turkey, and ham, the company provides service at the café and for special events at the park. It is open from 11:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. daily, except Tuesday, when the park is closed. 410-222-1777, http://www.aacounty.org/RecParks/parks/quietwaters/visitorcenter.cfm

Portico Sangria Garden—In the summer of 2011, State House Inn and Ristorante la Piccola Roma owner Marc Lucas opened the Portico Sangria Garden on the front porch and courtyard of the State House Inn. Weather-permitting, patrons can enjoy open-air dining with magnificent views of the Maryland State House dome. Diners can choose menu favorites from la Piccola Roma as well as dishes exclusive to Portico. A special half-price happy hour menu is available Monday through Thursday from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. 410-268-7898, www.piccolaromaannapolis.com.

Red Red Wine Bar—Opened on Main Street in Annapolis in the summer of 2011, their mantra is: “Snatching that elusive thrill of discovery away from wine snobs and putting it back into the glasses of the people, one customer at a time.” Owner Brian Bolter’s eclectic, funky, 18th-century/rock star vibe wine bar is designed to break down the stereotypes of wine bars and create an approachable, authentic experience. Red Red Wine Bar features live music, full gourmet lunch and dinner menus, and a wide selection of spirits and hops. They offer 40 wines by the glass, 120 wines by the bottle, and a full bar. 410-990-1144, www.redRedWineBar.com.

Ristorante la Piccola Roma—Beginning in September 2011, Ristorante la Piccola Roma will begin offering Third Thursday Barolo by the Glass Night. Barolo is a red wine produced in the northern Italian region of Piedmont. It typically costs more than $100 a bottle, and is rarely offered by the glass. On the Third Thursday of each month, la Piccola Roma patrons will be invited to try a $20 to $30 glass of the featured Barolo that has been opened, proven uncorked, and aerated properly earlier in the afternoon. 410-268-7898, www.piccolaromaannapolis.com.

Ristorante la Piccola Roma—In August 2011 la Piccola Roma began teaming up with the Maryland Federation of Art to feature a different artist’s work at the restaurant each month, concluding with a Meet the Artist reception at month’s end. 410-268-7898, www.piccolaromaannapolis.com.

Roundz Gourmet Market—Scheduled to open in Gambrills in the Hopkins Place shopping center in October 2011, Roundz Gourmet Market will offer prepared hot and cold gourmet foods for carry-out or café dining. The market also provides Chef Zachary Pope with a location for his growing catering business as well as a community presence that will allow him to connect with people, serve great meals, and raise food awareness. 443-841-6032, www.roundz.com.

Vin 909—The Eastport restaurant opened in April 2011 at the former site of the Wild Orchid Café. It is committed to using fresh, local, organic, and sustainable products wherever possible. A joint venture of father and son, Alex and Chuck Manfredoni, the restaurant offers a unique and diversified wine and craft beer selection. The New American cuisine created by chef Justin Moore changes seasonally with choices ranging from comfortable (hearth-baked pizzas) to unique (wild-boar meatballs). The owners believe that dining at Vin 909 is not only about having fun and enjoying good food, but about being responsible and healthy as well. 410-990-1846, www.vin909.com.
 

What’s New with Services

Airspace Lounge—The new-generation airport lounge network opened its first location at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport in May 2011. Located on concourse D, which serves AirTran, Cape Air, Continental, United, and U.S. Airways, the lounge is available to customers flying on any airline. Admission to the lounge, starting at $17.50 per day, entitles passengers to complimentary food and beverages. A full service bar is available for an extra fee. The lounge provides Wi-Fi access, power outlets at every seat, MacBooks, and Windows computers. Airspace is open from 5:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. daily. 410-859-7111, www.airspacelounge.com.

AirTran Airways is scheduled to begin offering nonstop service from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport to Aruba on December 17, 2011. The airline will be celebrating the new route with a special one-way fare of $159 for travel from December 17 through March 14, 2012. In order to take advantage of the special low fare, customers must book their flight by September 16. www.airtran.com.

Amtrak—Individuals who book their plans for travel to and/or from BWI Rail Station at http://www.visitannapolis.org/getting-here/trains/index.aspx or www.Amtrak.com/VisitAnnapolis can take advantage of a 30-percent companion rail fare discount on Amtrak. The first passenger travels at the lowest applicable Northeast Regional Coach Class fare, and the travel companion receives a 30-percent discount off the fare. Seats are limited and may not be available on all trains at all times. A three-day advance booking is required, and holiday blackout dates apply. www.Amtrak.com/VisitAnnapolis.

Annapolis Carriage—New this season, individuals who wish to arrive at the Maryland Renaissance Festival gates in period style can take advantage of a horse-drawn carriage ride from the parking area to the entrance. Annapolis Carriage is providing the transportation at a cost of $5 per person. Children six and under ride for free. This year’s Renaissance Festival takes place Saturdays and Sundays, August 27-28 through Sunday, October 23. 410-349-1660, www.AnnapolisCarriage.com.

Annapolis Circulator—Visitors are finding it easier than ever to get around downtown Annapolis thanks to the new City Circulator. Introduced in July 2011, the circulator transports individuals from the city’s four public parking garages to shops, restaurants, and businesses in Annapolis’ central business district. For complimentary rides all day long, passengers need only show their garage parking stub. The cost per ride for all others is $1. To make the service even more appealing, the City has reduced the cost of parking in its Knighton and Park Place garages to $5 a day. Parking rates at the Gott’s Court and Hillman garages remain at $12 and $16 a day respectively. To hop aboard the circulator at locations other than the parking garages, individuals need simply hail the trolley as they would a taxi-cab.

The Annapolis Circulator operates along two different routes. The City Side Route starts at the Westin Annapolis Hotel, travels down West Street to Church Circle and turns onto Duke of Gloucester Street. From there, it turns onto St. Mary’s Street, then onto Compromise Street and up Main Street back to Church Circle and out West Street. It operates from 7:30 a.m. to midnight Sundays through Thursdays and from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The State Side Route begins at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, runs down Rowe Boulevard past the State office buildings and Lawyers Mall. It turns around at Bladen and Calvert Streets and heads back up Rowe Boulevard to the stadium. The State Side Route runs from 6:30 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Circulators run every ten minutes, with an average wait time of 6.5 to 7 minutes. 410-263-7964, www.annapolis.gov/NewsDetails/11-06-30/Annapolis_Circulator_Starts_July_1_-_Get_in_the_Loop.aspx.

Annapolis Urban Adventures—In July 2011, Annapolis Urban Adventures and eCruisers teamed up to create a one-of-a-kind walking tour on wheels. An Annapolis Urban Adventures guide leads up to five individuals per vehicle on a personalized tour of downtown Annapolis in an open-air, 100-percent electric eCruiser. The two-hour daily tours combine walking and riding along the streets in and around Annapolis and Eastport to take in the sites, shops, and history of the area. The final stop is a snack at a local restaurant. Tours begin at the Loews Annapolis Hotel or at a mutually agreed upon site. 240-602-7132, www.annapolisurbanadventures.com.

Atami Day Spa—Celebrating its first anniversary in September 2011, The Atami Day Spa at 31 Maryland Avenue offers a complete line of relaxing and rejuvenating spa and salon services. They use only organic, paraben-free, green and eco-friendly products. 410-263-3646, www.atamidayspa.com.

Be Relax Spa—Offering manicures, pedicures and massages, Be Relax spa opened two locations at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport – at concourses A and D – in July 2011. 410-859-7002, www.berelax.com.

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport Introduces Electric Vehicle Charging Stations—In the spring of 2011, BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport installed eight new electric vehicle charging stations. The stations are part of Maryland’s effort to build up electric vehicle infrastructure in the region. 410-859-7111, www.bwiairport.com.

BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport—The Anne Arundel County-based airport saw a record number of passengers pass through its gates during the first half of 2011. During the first six months, passenger traffic increased to 10.9 million, up 5.3 percent from the same period last year. In June 2011, passenger traffic increased to more than 2.1 million, a two percent increase over the same month last year. Traffic at BWI has grown for 16 straight months and in 24 of the past 25 months. In the last year, BWI traffic grew 5.5 percent to nearly 22.5 million passengers, a new 12-month record. 410-859-7027, www.bwiairport.com.

Capistrano Barbershop—Master barber Faraj Capistrano from Nazareth opened his old fashioned barbershop at 54 Maryland Avenue in Annapolis in June 2011. Complete with a red and white-striped pole outside, the shop offers the nostalgia of yesteryear. Capistrano provides traditional and short hair cuts as well as contemporary men’s hairstyles and straight edge shaves. He also hosts groomsmen’s shaving parties. The barbershop is open Tuesday through Saturday. 410-697-5727, www.capistranobarbershop.com.

Market House—Individuals in search of information about what to do and see in Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay are invited to stop by the Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Conference and Visitors Bureau’s new satellite information center at the Market House. AAACCVB volunteer information specialists have been providing information and assistance to individuals at the satellite center since Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen officially reopened the Market House at 25 Market Space on July 11. Along with nine other vendors, the AAACCVB has signed a short-term lease with the City to operate at the downtown landmark until January 2, 2012. At that time, the City will reevaluate and determine what the long-term future holds for the building. The information center is open from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. seven days a week. The seasonal information booth that the AAACCVB has traditionally operated next to the Harbor Master’s office is closed during this time. 410-280-0445, www.VisitAnnapolis.org.

Port of Baltimore—In April 2011, the Port of Baltimore unveiled a state-of-the-art passenger boarding bridge that allows cruise passengers to board their ship via an enclosed climate controlled walkway between the cruise terminal and the ship. The boarding bridge is mobile and flexible enough to accommodate cruise ships of varying sizes. 410-385-4480, www.cruisemaryland.gov.

Superior Sitters LLC makes it easy for individuals who are traveling with their families for business or pleasure to find a babysitter. In August 2011, Linda Elben-Adams purchased the company from its former owner – after four years with the company. The company’s CPR/first aid-certified, background-checked sitters provide professional child sitting services for a visitor’s temporary childcare needs. 410-924-2948.
 

What’s New with Accommodations

Courtyard by Marriott Annapolis held a grand re-opening in June 2011. The property’s recently completed changes include a fully renovated lobby featuring new places to eat, connect, work and relax. A new interactive GoBoard makes it easy for guests to find restaurants, maps, and more. New Media Pods are an office and social space all in one, and The Bistro offers fresh food choices throughout the day, Starbucks’ coffee, and evening cocktails. 410-266-1555, www.CourtyardAnnapolis.com

DoubleTree by Hilton Baltimore BWI Airport—After 38 years and a $12 million renovation, the Holiday Inn BWI at 890 Elkridge Landing Road in Linthicum has been rebranded a DoubleTree by Hilton. The 260-room hotel provides the Sweet Dreams by DoubleTree sleep experience, complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access, 24-hour fitness and business centers, and complimentary shuttle service to BWI Airport, among other things. The change was officially celebrated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April 2011. 410-859-8400, www.doubletreebwiairporthotel.com.

Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott BWI—Marriott opened the 105-room Fairfield Inn & Suites in August 2011 at 1020 Andover Road in Linthicum Heights, just one mile from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. The property’s public space features an innovative, contemporary design that is flexible and functional. Guest rooms offer a flat-panel HDTV, and the bed features plush mattresses, down blankets, and crisp linens. A complimentary continental breakfast is available each morning. The hotel also offers an indoor swimming pool, exercise room, free high-speed Internet and fax. The property has 672 square feet of meeting space to accommodate meetings and functions of up to 50 people. The Marriott franchise is owned by BWI Hospitality, LLC and managed by Baywood Hotels of Greenbelt, Maryland. 410-691-1001, www.fairfieldinn.com/bwiaf.

Hampton Inn and Suites Annapolis is now a pet-friendly hotel. Since August 15, 2011, guests are being invited to bring their dogs and cats to stay with them at the hotel at no additional charge. Pets receive a welcome pet amenity when they arrive. 410-571-0200, www.annapolissuites.hamptoninn.com.

Hampton Inn and Suites Annapolis—In March 2011, High Hotels Ltd. which owns and operates the Hampton Inn & Suites Annapolis, received the Institute for Sustainable Development’s highest level of recognition – Green Plus certification. The Green Plus program recognizes dedication to triple-bottom-line sustainability – People, Planet, and Performance – by measuring business and environmental as well as co-worker and community practices. 410-571-0200, www.annapolishampton.com.

The Hotel at Arundel Preserve—The Southern Management Hotel opened in summer 2011 next to Arundel Mills Mall in Hanover. It features 150 guest rooms and suites and more than 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor flexible meeting and banquet space, including a grand ballroom that accommodates groups of up to 500 people. The certified LEED silver property is also the home of George Martin’s Grillfire, a sophisticated American bistro. 410-796-9830, www.thehotelarundel.com.

Inn at Herrington Harbour—In May 2011, the Inn at Herrington Harbour in southern Anne Arundel County announced the opening of its newly expanded private East Beach. The owners used natural Chesapeake Bay sand to double the size of the original beach, giving Inn and/or marina guests more space to play. Kayaks are complimentary to guests who want to spend time on the water viewing ospreys, gulls, terns, cow nose rays, and darting fish. 410-741-5100, www.herringtonharbour.com.

Peninsula House Bed and Breakfast—In spring 2011, Maryland Green Travel certified the bed and breakfast at 11 Chester Avenue in Eastport as an environmentally friendly property for its efforts at recycling, waste reduction, water conservation, and energy conservation. 410-267-8796, www.peninsulahousemd.com.
 

What’s New with Retail

Annapolis Harbour Center—Nordstrom Rack opened its doors at the Annapolis Harbour Center in May 2011. A 23,284 square foot Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW) is slated to open right next door in fall 2011. This will be the Designer Shoe Warehouse’s 12th location in Maryland and the first in Anne Arundel County. DSW Inc. is a leading footwear specialty retailer that offers a wide selection of brand name and designer dress, casual, and athletic footwear for women and men. 410-266-5857, www.annapolisharbourcenter.com.

Fire & Ice—Located at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport’s A/B concourse, Fire & Ice features collections that are as varied as what is found in open air markets around the world. Their inventory includes jewelry, art glass, fossils, crystal formations and carvings. 410-850-4293, www.fireandice.com.

Maria’s Picture Place and Custom Framing—Just in time for the Annapolis Art Walk in August 2011, Maria’s Picture Place began carrying the artwork of local graphic designer Joe Barsin at its Maryland Avenue gallery. A graphic designer by trade, Barsin’s true passion is illustration. While running a successful design business for 15 years, he has managed to produce many works on his own. His dramatic, graphic illustrations of Annapolis Sailboats, the U.S. Naval Academy, Washington, D.C., and several opera-themed pieces are now on sale at Maria’s. Individuals can also order his work online at www.barsinart.com. 410-263-8282, www.mariaspictureplace.biz.

Market House—On July 11, the City of Annapolis reopened the iconic Market House at 25 Market Space for a six-month period. Nine area vendors have signed short-term leases to operate at the 5,000 square foot market through January 1, 2012. The lineup provides area residents and visitors with a mix of food options as well as maps and artwork. The vendors include: b.b. Bistro, providing affordable, quick lunches or dinners made with high quality local ingredients; Chick & Ruth’s Delly, serving crab cakes, deli sandwiches, and their famous milkshakes; Firenze’s Coffee and Gelato, serving gelato, and hot beverages including coffee, espresso, cappuccino, and latte; Jerrie’s on the Shore – freshly prepared curly fries, wings, onion rings, hot dogs, and shave ice; Maryland Table – a sophisticated grocery experience including original take home foods and ready-to-eat offerings; Myra’s Popcorn Kitchen – gourmet popcorn, caramel apples, cotton candy, and glazed nuts; Pit Boys Oyster & Raw Bar – traditional oyster bar featuring Maryland oysters and clams, crabmeat, and soft-shell crabs sourced from local watermen; Wimsey Cove – historic maps of Annapolis and nearby areas, artwork produced by Anne Arundel County artists, high quality giftware as souvenirs of Annapolis; Wok Your Way – fresh, healthy, customized fried rice. 410-263-1183, www.annapolis.gov.

Maryland Table—The local and sustainable agriculture-focused supplier of farm-to-table goods added Chapel Country Creamery to its partner list in July 2011. The Creamery brings fresh, hand-crafted cheeses to the lineup. Chapel Creamery is known for its grass-fed, raw milk artisanal cheese. Their milk is all natural and contains no synthetic hormones, antibiotics, or chemical compounds. Maryland Table is a partnership between local chef Craig Sewell and an Annapolis-based social innovation firm. They have teamed up with partner farms in Maryland that provide sustainably grown produce, bison, grass-fed ground beef, whole milk and yogurt, beef, pork, veal, poultry, and hand-crafted cheeses. 410-266-1511, www.marylandtable.com.

Spice & Tea Exchange of Annapolis—A ribbon cutting in June 2011 marked the official opening of the Spice & Tea Exchange franchise at 155 Main Street in Annapolis. The store is dedicated to bringing to market a huge selection of gourmet spices, including a wide variety of chili, cheese, and smoked powders. 410-280-2088, www.spiceandtea.com.

Tilly’s—This leading specialty retailer opened in Neighborhood 2 at Arundel Mills Mall in May 2011. The store features the latest fashions from top brands in skate, surf, motocross, street and action sports lifestyle apparel. Headquartered in southern California, Tilly’s operates 125 stores across the country. www.tillys.com and www.arundelmills.com.

Zachary’s Jewelers—Opened in November 2010, Zachary’s Jewelers second location in Severna Park features an onsite, state-of-the-art manufacturing center. Their watch designers and jewelry experts can create original custom designs in platinum, palladium or a combination of metals and gemstones to offer each customer the opportunity to enjoy a piece created especially for them. 410-544-4005, www.zacharysjewelers.com.
 

New Kudos

The September 2011 issue of Money Magazine named Anne Arundel County’s Crofton, Maryland one of the Top 100 Best Small Towns in which to Live. The town ranked 82.

The September 2011 issue of Southern Living Magazine named Annapolis as one of The South’s Best College Towns.

Certified Environmental Stewards—In July 2011, the City of Annapolis added three more Annapolis restaurants to its list of Certified Environmental Stewards in recognition of their sustainable practices: The Westin Annapolis Hotel and its Azure restaurant, Metropolitan Kitchen and Lounge, and Vin 909.
The Westin Annapolis at 100 Westgate Circle is one of only two Westin Hotels worldwide that has fostered relationships with local farmers to provide meat and produce. Executive chef James Barrett flavors his recipes with honey from two bee hives that he tends on the second floor roof. The Metropolitan at 169 West Street specializes in farm-to-table dining, sourcing its ingredients from local farms and purveyors. It incorporates sustainable, earth-friendly, grass-fed meats and healthy food into its philosophy. Vine 909 at 909 Bay Ridge Avenue uses its own organic herbs and vegetables grown in the back garden.

The Environmental Stewardship Certification Program allows restaurants to earn points from a checklist of categories including: serving local food, energy efficiency improvements, water conservation, and environmental education efforts. One hundred out of nine hundred available points must be earned to qualify for the initial two-year certification. Thus far, sixteen Annapolis-area restaurants have been certified as Environmental Stewards. 410-263-7946, www.SustainableAnnapolis.com.
 

Significant Anniversaries

Amtrak kicked off its 40th anniversary year in May 2011 with National Train Day celebrations in major markets including D.C., Philadelphia, Chicago, and Los Angeles. National Train Day commemorates the 142nd anniversary of when construction began on the transcontinental railroad. 1-800-USA-RAIL, www.amtrak.com.

Annapolis, London Town & South County Heritage Area will be holding its 10th anniversary celebration at 4:30 p.m. on October 27, 2011 in the Blue Heron Room at Quiet Waters Park. Since 2002, the Four Rivers Heritage Area has received 50 MHAA grants and has awarded 71 mini-grants, totaling $2.75 million in fully-matched funds for projects that have stimulated preservation and economic development in the region by supporting and promoting its natural, historic, and cultural resources. 410-222-1805, www.fourriversheritage.org.

Annapolis Performance Sailing at 104 Severn Avenue in Annapolis celebrated 20 years of outfitting performance sailors in July 2011. Kyle Gross opened the doors of his one-stop-shop for sailors in 1991. In 1992, he distributed the first Annapolis Performance Sailing (APS) mail order catalog. Over the years, APS has grown from a one-man operation into a thriving international company run by a team of 30 racing sailors stocking more than 10,000 sailing products. APS is the world leader in outfitting performance sailors. 800-729-9767 or 410-268-3676, www.apsltd.com.

Annapolis Symphony Orchestra—During its 50th anniversary year 2011-2012 season, the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra will highlight the past, present, and future of the organization with a full series of concerts led by Music Director Jose-Luis Novo. The yearlong festivities will wrap up the weekend of May 4-6, 2012 with performances by pianist Rachel Franklin at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts and on May 4 and a Gala Concert celebration at the University of Maryland College Park’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center on May 6 featuring world-renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves. 410-263-0907, www.annapolissymphony.org.

Anne Arundel Community College—The Anne Arundel Community College Foundation will kick off the college’s 50th anniversary with a Still Golden black tie gala at the Roger W. “Pip” Moyer Community Center at Truxton Park in Annapolis on Saturday, October 15, from 6:00 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. The Anne Arundel County Board of Education established Anne Arundel Community College as a comprehensive community center of higher learning on January 2, 1961. On September 18, 1961, the community college opened with 270 students who were taking late-afternoon and evening classes in temporary quarters at Severna Park High School. 410-777-2222, www.aacc.edu.

Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival celebrated its 10th anniversary in May. The event started in 1998, with a few breaks over the years. The festival is recognized as one of the premier blues festivals in the world. All proceeds of the event go to charity. Among the charities that have benefited from the festival are: Make a Wish of the Mid-Atlantic, the U.S.O., Special Olympics of Maryland, Johns Hopkins Cleft and Cranial Facial Children’s Camp Face, We Care and Friends, and Camp Fantastic, a camp for children with cancer. 410-257-7413, www.bayblues.org.

Chesapeake Beach Resort & Spa is celebrating its 65th anniversary throughout 2011. It started in 1946 as the Rod ‘N’ Reel Restaurant and Marina. Over the years, it has grown to become a waterfront destination for both land lovers and boaters. The resort is celebrating its anniversary with new restaurant menus and specials, hotel and marina anniversary rates, and events, including a Bridal Show that made its debut in March. 410-257-2735, www.cbresortspa.com.

Maryland Renaissance Festival—The region’s premier outdoor event is celebrating its 35th season at Revel Grove in Crownsville in 2011. The second largest Renaissance Festival in the country is a 22-acre re-creation of a 16th-century English village. This year’s festival runs on Saturdays and Sundays from August 27 through October 23. It features food, fun, fine crafts, five pubs, ten major stages, and a jousting arena. 800-296-7304, www.rennfest.com.

Paint Annapolis—Come watch artists paint the town as this annual outdoor painting event celebrates its tenth year! Thirty-five of the nation's finest plein air artists paint outdoors in historic Annapolis Thursday through Saturday, September 29 through October 1, before thousands of art lovers, tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and curiosity seekers. Prizes are awarded to the artists who best capture the spirit of Annapolis. Maryland Hall will host several exhibitions of work completed by juried, non-juried and student artists from October 2-30. Plein air painters of all skill levels are invited to set up their equipment and paint alongside the official competing artists throughout the city. 410-263-5544, ext. 10, www.paintannapolis.com.

Patuxent Wildlife Research Center and Refuge—Throughout 2011, the facility is celebrating 75 years of wildlife conservation research. Highlights of the celebration include a two-day workshop on the refuge’s history presented by a number of scientists and conservationists on October 13 and 14 and the Patuxent Wildlife Festival on Saturday, October 15, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The free event will feature live animals, kids’ crafts, tram tours ($), and behind-the-scenes research tours of the U.S.G.S. Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. There, attendees will get to see where endangered whooping cranes and sea ducks are raised and studied. 301-497-5766, http://patuxent.fws.gov.

Southwest Airlines—This major carrier at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport is celebrating 40 years of service with a host of promotions involving free vacation packages throughout 2011. www.southwest.com.