Lil’ Margaret’s Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival

Come out to Goddard Farm in Leonardtown for down-home music, home-cooked food and fun for the whole family!

The 24th annual Lil’ Margaret’s Bluegrass & Old Time Music Festival will be held August 9, 10 and 11, with a total of 27 hours of live music on the stage and plenty of pickin’ in the parking lot all weekend long.

Hours and Bands:
Thursday: 3 PM until 10:30 PM
Bands: Remington Ride, The Travelers, Bill Yates and the Country Gentlemen Tribute Band, Recycled Bluegrass Band

Friday: 1 PM until 10 PM
Bands: Remington Ride, Goldwing Express, The Travelers, Mark Templeton & Pocket Change, Aspen Run

Saturday: 11 AM until 9:30 PM
Bands: Mark Templeton & Pocket Change, Charley Thompson & Bottom County Bluegrass, Dark Hollow Bluegrass Band, Little Roy and the Lizzy Show, Aspen Run

For more information see the Events Calendar listing.

River Concert Series

Join Maestro Jeffery Silberschlag and the Chesapeake Orchestra for world class outdoor concerts at St. Mary's College of Maryland.

Friday in June and July come with the beautiful sounds of jazz, concertos, marches, waltzs and more at St. Mary's College of Maryland, thanks to the River Concert Series. Each summer Maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag and the Chesapeake Orchestra set up on the Townhouse Green along the St. Mary's River to entertain serious music lovers and casual listeners alike.

The free concerts start at 8 PM, with seating and food and art vendors opening at 5 PM.

July 13 – Come Ye Sons of Art

The College’s own Larry Vote will be guest conductor and Jeffrey Silverschlag will play trumpet in the night’s salute to Handel. The River Concert Series Festival Choir, made up of talented area high school students and members of St. Mary’s College’s Choir, Chamber Singers, and St. Marie’s Musica will be featured in many pieces.



July 20 – A Wagnerian Finale for 2012 (in case the Mayans are right)

At least the world will go out with a bang – this performance features the compositions of Wagner and Debussy, the latter of which will be accompanied by a sixteen-woman chorus and electronics. Piano soloist Brian Ganz will perform Grieg’s energetic Concerto for Piano.



July 27 – Firebird, “Bird” and the Stars in our Constellation

The Grand Finale will feature a profusion of regional jazz, blues and folk artists, including Don Stapleson, Rick Humphries and others. Charlie Parker’s “Super Sax” jazz piece and Stravinsky’s ballet hit, Firebird Suite 1919, will end the River Concert Series with a flourish.

Find more great events happening in St. Mary's at http://www.visitstmarysmd.com/events-entertainment/
For more information on the River Concert Series, visit http://www.smcm.edu/riverconcert/

DISCOVER St. Mary’s: Celebrate Earth Day & Learn How to “Go Green” this Weekend in Leonardtown

Find out how being green can save environmental resources and your hard-earned dollars at the Go Green Expo at the Forrest Career & Technology Center on Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Local and regional companies and experts will be on hand to share information on environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices.

Celebrate Earth Day in Leonardtown on Sunday April 22, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Talk to experts in soil and water conservation, animal rescue, solar energy, gardening and recycling. Watch painting and yarn spinning demonstrations, and visit live animal exhibits. Relax with a massage in the Square, or stroll around and find Earth Day specials at local shops and restaurants. Walk to the Wharf for free kayak and canoe rides, or bring your mat and join in a yoga class. Kids can jump around in a moon bounce, sing along at the puppet show and make earth-friendly crafts to take home.

 

SAVOR St. Mary’s: Farm to Table Freshness at the Good Earth

Get fresh grown produce and organic goodness right off the Leonardtown Square at The Good Earth Natural Foods Co. You can find farm fresh fruits and veggies – including local strawberries from Southern Comfort Berry Farm and greens from Even’ Star Organic Farm. The store also hosts events to help inspire healthy living and stocks all natural health products, gluten free and vegan food options and even natural treats for your pets. To find out more about all the Good Earth has to offer, visit http://www.goodearthnaturals.com/.



UPCOMING EVENTS:

Going Green Expo
April 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Forrest Career & Technology Center, Leonardtown
For more information, call (301) 475-4200 Ext.1505

Earth Day Celebration
April 22, 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Leonardtown Square
For more information, call (301) 475-9791

Plant Sale & Free Exchange
April 28, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
April 29, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Sotterley Plantation, Hollywood
For more information, visit: http://www.sotterley.org/

500 Years of Music for Guitar
April 28, 7 p.m.
Christ Episcopal Church, Chaptico
For more information, visit: http://www.christepiscopalchaptico.org/ or www.myspace.com/petergriggsnyc

SoMD Kids Expo & Women's Show
April 28, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
So. Maryland Higher Ed. Center, Hollywood
For more information, visit: http://www.somdexpos.com/

Spring Fling Classic Car Show
April 29, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Leonardtown Square
For more information, visit: stmarysrodandclassic.com

DISCOVER St. Mary’s The Barnwood and Beach Glass Trail


Uncover many surprising stops throughout St. Mary’s as you traveling along “the long, lazy loop” that makes up the Barnwood & Beach Glass Trail, part of Southern Maryland Trails. Explore the county to find friendly farms (including Southern Comfort Berry Farm), pristine parks and beautiful beaches. Uncover treasures when you stop at boutique and antique shops. Sample local cuisine, including fresh seafood caught in the waters that surround St. Mary’s county - the Potomac, the Patuxent and the Chesapeake Bay. Visit artists’ studios and galleries for original works and country stores for original personalities. Discover “a thousand small delights” along the trail in St. Mary’s Count.

Southern Maryland Trails is a guidebook produced by the Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission, for more information, visit: http://www.somdtrails.com/, http://www.somarylandsogood.com/ and http://www.smadc.com/.

SAVOR St. Mary’s Pick-Your-Own Strawberries

Pick and eat delicious strawberries ripe off the vine at Southern Comfort Berry Farm in Bushwood. The farm offers strawberries in spring, watermelons in summer and pumpkins in fall. Southern Comfort Berry Farm will be opening to the public early this year. While the strawberry harvest generally isn’t ready until May, the mild winter in Southern Maryland has lead to early berries and an April opening. The farm has already starting supplying strawberries to the Good Earth in Leonardtown and will be opening to the public on April 18. Pick-Your-Own hours are Monday - Friday 10a.m. to 5p.m., Saturday 8a.m. to 5p.m. and Sunday noon to 5p.m. Check the farm’s Facebook page for the latest updates. Savor spring in St. Mary’s as you enjoy strawberries from Southern Comfort Berry Farm.

UPCOMING EVENTS in St. Mary’s

Cabaret
April 13, 5:30p.m. - 9:00p.m.
Mechanicsville Moose Lodge
For tickets or more information, call (301) 475-4200 ext. 1073

Second Saturday at Sotterley "From the Ground Up"
April 14, 9:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.
Sotterley Plantation, Hollywood
For more information, visit: http://www.sotterley.org/

Autism Awareness Day
April 14, 12:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.
Olde Town Pub, Leonardtown
For more information, call (301) 862-2505 or visit: www.facebook.com//AutSupGroupSoMd/

Free Comedy Night
April 19, 8:30p.m.
DB McMillan’s, California
For more information, call (301) 866-0777 or visit: dbmcmillans.com

Going Green Expo
April 21, 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.m.
Forrest Career & Technology Center, Leonardtown
For more information, call (301) 475-4200 Ext.1505

Earth Day Celebration
April 22, 12:30p.m. - 4:30p.m.
Leonardtown Square
For more information, call (301) 475-9791

Celebrate Black History in St. Mary's County

What’s Featured, What’s Fun – Discover wonderful reasons to visit St. Mary’s County! 

Mathias de Sousa – From Servant to Merchant to the Maryland Assembly

    Visit Historic St. Mary’s City where Mathias de Sousa, the first free person of African decent in Maryland, rose from being an indentured servant to voting in the Maryland Assembly. Discover more about de Sousa and others who founded Maryland by visiting the St. John’s Site Museum. The museum features exhibits on de Sousa and the history of St. Mary’s City.  Winter hours for the St. John’s Site Museum and more information can be found at www.stmaryscity.org.

     While his exact origins are unknown, it is thought that de Sousa was of Portuguese and African ancestry. Mathias de Sousa came to Maryland with Father Andrew White as an indentured servant on the first voyage to settle Maryland in 1634. De Sousa was a free man by 1639. He lived in St. Mary’s City, where he worked as a fur trader and lead an expedition up the Chesapeake to trade with the Susquehannocks. In March of 1641, de Sousa took part in the Maryland General Assembly. The St. John’s Site Museum in Historic St. Mary’s City is a replica of that building where the assembly met and is built on the foundations of the original building. 

Savor the Season, Savor St. Mary’s – Taste the flavors of St. Mary’s County!

St. Mary’s County Stuffed Ham is a Southern Maryland institution. Come on down to St. Mary’s, and taste some of this county treat for yourself. Stuffed ham can be found at several country markets and restaurants, such as Chaptico Market (301-884-3308), St. Mary’s Landing Restaurant in Charlotte Hall (301-884-3287), and McKay’s (301-475-2531).  At Lenny’s Restaurant, a local landmark, Chef Dan offers stuffed ham cooking classes. Visit www.lennys.net for more information. 

While it is traditionally served for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, Stuffed Ham can be enjoyed anytime. The ham, stuffed with greens, onions, and spices, can be found at most county festivals and fairs throughout the year. It is eaten with eggs for breakfast and as a sandwich for lunch and makes an excellent main course for dinner. There are several local legends about the origins of this St. Mary’s original. One version is that slaves working on plantations in St. Mary’s used greens and onions from their gardens to add some flavor to the parts of the hog they were given. Others believe a cook for the Jesuit Priest at St. Inigoes Manor made the first stuffed ham as a special treat to celebrate Easter and the end of Lenten fasting. Another theory is that an English farmwife was the first to use cabbage, onions, and watercress to dress up her Easter ham. Regardless of its origin, St. Mary’s is proud of its stuffed ham!

What’s New and of Note – Keep up-to-date on what’s up-and-coming in St. Mary’s!

Lancaster Park on Willows Road in Lexington Park will soon be home to new monument honoring the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought in the Civil War. This monument will be unveiled and dedicated at this year’s Juneteenth Celebration on June 16 and will feature a sculpture by nationally recognized sculptor Gary Casteel. The monument will specifically honor three Civil War Medal of Honor recipients from St. Mary’s County: Sgt. James H. Harris (USCT), Pvt. William H. Barnes (USCT), and Joseph Hayden (USS Ticonderoga). This monument, only the fourth in the country dedicated to the USCT, is the result of years of hard work by the United Committee for Afro-American Contributions (UCAC), a local volunteer group who’s mission is to make known the role African Americans play in shaping St. Mary’s County. Groundbreaking Ceremony for the St. Mary’s County USCT Memorial Monument will be 2pm on March 4 at Lancaster Park. For more information, visit www.ucaconline.com.

Upcoming Events – Be a part of what’s happening in St. Mary’s County!

Wine and Food Pairings

Port of Leonardtown Winery 

Thursday, Feb. 23, 5:00pm to 8:00pm          

Enjoy wine tasting and food pairings by local chefs. Learn about pairing food and great local wines. Cost is $12 at the door. Port of Leonardtown Winery will also be offering all their wines 10% on Saturday, Feb. 25. For more information, visit portofleonardtown.com or call 301-690-2192.

Jazz After-Hours at Café des Artistes

Leonardtown

Saturday, Feb. 25, 7:30pm-10:30pm

Dance and Dine the Night Away! The Café will lay out their dance floor, and the Gretchen Richie Jazz Cabaret will perform danceable tunes, including jazz, swing, pop, rhythm & blues, plus those dreamy slow songs. Reservations recommended. No cover. The kitchen will remain open until 9:30 pm. For more information, visit cafedesartistes.ws.

The Free State – Enjoy St. Mary’s without spending a dime!

Interpreting Slavery Lecture

Thursday, March 1, 7:00pm

Historic St. Mary’s City Visitor Center Auditorium

Consider the many ways the enslaved experience has been interpreted through exhibits and by costumed interpreters. Historian Nicole Moore, from Historic Brattonsville, S.C., will discuss her experience portraying slave life on a South Carolina plantation and offer a behind-the-scenes look at the research, politics and presentations involved with bringing an electrifying subject to the public. Visit www.stmaryscity.org for more information. 

Jazz Concert

Friday, Feb. 24, 8:00pm

St. Mary’s College of Maryland, Montgomery Hall, Room 25

The St. Mary’s College of Maryland Jazz Band and Combo present an annual salute to the Golden Era of the Big Band. The concert, titled “Thank You, Uncle Ted,” will feature the music of the great Duke Ellington. The concert will also feature the vocal skills of Camilla Rangel with the big band and Leah Klump with the combo.  Because seating is limited for this free event, early arrival is recommended. For more information, call 240-895-4498 or visit www.smcm.edu/calendar/events/. 

Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration

Leonardtown Library

Saturday, Feb. 25, 10:30am

Celebrate Dr. Seuss’s Birthday with the Leonardtown Library! Dr. Seuss stories, crafts and fun for children of all ages. Registration required. 301-475-2846 or www.stmalib.org.

Explore the County this Presidents’ Day Weekend, and Fill Up on Food and Friendship at Church Dinners

What’s Featured, What’s Fun – Discover wonderful reasons to Visit St. Mary’s County!

     Discover the birthplace of religious freedom in the United States. Long before the Constitution or the Bill of Rights, in April 1649, the Maryland General Assembly decided the “No Person or Persons…shall henceforth be in any ways troubled, molested or discountenanced for or in respect of his or her Religion nor in the free exercise therof…” Immerse yourself in the places, history and culture that shaped Religious Freedom in America. Blue skies or gray make beautiful backdrops for viewing the historic and architecturally unique churches from the comfort of your car. Many of the churches along the trail are still active, and if you’d like to get a feel of the present day community, church dinners are a great way to meet the locals and get a good meal. To download a copy of the Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway, go to http://www.visitstmarysmd.com/Cultural%20Trails%20.asp.

Savor the Season, Savor St. Mary’s – Taste the flavors of St. Mary’s County!
Come down to St. Mary’s County for a Church dinner, and get a real meal and real sense of community! Church dinners are a great way to get to know the people and flavors of county. From seafood dinners to pancake suppers, St. Mary’s churches serve up great home-style fare and down-home hospitality! February, March and April are great times for church dinners. Many parishes celebrate Shrove Tuesday (also known as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras) with a pancake feast. Throughout Lent, seafood dinners on Fridays can be found all throughout St. Mary’s. To view all the upcoming church dinners in St. Mary’s, visit http://www.visitstmarysmd.com/Church%20Dinners%20.asp.

What’s New and of Note – Keep up-to-date on what’s up-and-coming in St. Mary’s!
What better way to celebrate Presidents’ Day then to explore the area that lured our leaders from the White House during the 1800s and into the early 20th century?
Piney Point, on the Potomac, was once the go-to vacation spot for presidents and high society. The beautiful beaches, abundant wildlife and dining on fresh seafood at the water’s edges attracted many politicos and socialites to make the short trip down from DC to St. Mary’s. James Monroe, Franklin Pierce and Theodore Roosevelt, among others, all stayed along Piney Point. You can enjoy all these, too, by staying at one of the great unique lodging Piney Point and nearby St. George’s Island have to offer. Visit the Piney Point Lighthouse to see first hand what life was like during the years Piney Point served as a get-a-way destination for Washington’s elite. For more information on where to stay, go to lodging at http://www.visitstmarysmd.com/. For more information on Piney Point Lighthouse, visit http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/PPL.asp.

Upcoming Events – Be a part of what’s happening in St. Mary’s County!

Mid-Winter Feast at Trinity Church
Friday, February 17, 6:00p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
The menu includes hearty local favorites: Fried Oysters, Fried Shrimp, Steamship Round of Beef, Baked Chicken, Side Dishes, and Desserts. Price is $30 per person, and reservations are required. For more information, please call 301-862-4597 or email: parishadmin@olg.com.

Fat Tuesday Dinner
Tuesday, February 21, 5:00p.m. to 7:00p.m.
Join St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in California in celebrating Fat Tuesday! They will be cooking up traditional Southern Maryland and New Orleans favorites - Pancakes & Sausage or Jambalaya & Bread Pudding. Either way, there will be something for everyone. Cost is $8 for adults, $5 for children, free for 2 years and younger. Carry-outs are available. Please call the parish office with questions 301-862-2247.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
Tuesday, February 21, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
All Saints Episcopal Church in Avenue is having a traditional St. Mary's County Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. The prices are: Adult $7; children ages 12 and under $5; children 4 and under free. Please visit All Saints website or contact Mrs. Lynn Burton at 301-769-2920, for further information.

The Free State – Enjoy St. Mary’s without spending a dime!

Meet Frederick Douglass
Travel back in time and meet Frederick Douglass, portrayed by professional storyteller Walter Jones, Jr. at the Lexington Park Library, on Saturday, February 18. Discover how a motherless slave child taught himself to read and write, as he walked the streets of Baltimore. Join in the Adventure as this daring young man risks life and limb as he plots his escape to freedom. Free family program. Light refreshments. The program will begin at 1:00p.m. Co-sponsored by NAACP and UCAC. Call 301-863-8188 or visit http://www.stmalib.org/ for more information.

Travel the Religious Freedom National Scenic Byway
Download the brochure and hop in the car for a day of discovery! Visit historic churches, learn about our nation’s beginnings and explore St. Mary’s County! To download the brochure, visit http://www.visitstmarysmd.com/Cultural%20Trails%20.asp.

Visit Piney Point Lighthouse and Historic Park
Explore the oldest lighthouse on the Potomac River, constructed in 1836. Even during a windy weekend, you can make a day of discovering all the six-acre park has to offer, including a picnic area, kayak launch, boardwalk, pier and beautiful sandy beach. Keep an eye out for osprey, among other marine birds, riding the air currents along the Point. Enjoying this park doesn’t cost a thing! Be sure to bring your camera to capture all the great views! Grounds are open sunrise to sunset seven days a week. Museum and lighthouse tours are available during seasonal operation hours. Visit http://www.co.saint-marys.md.us/recreate/PPL.asp for more information.

This week in St. Mary's County

St. Mary’s County has so many great ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day and everyday! Find out what’s happening this week in St. Mary’s County!

What’s Featured, What’s Fun - Discover wonderful reasons to visit St. Mary’s County!

Valentine’s Dinner Deals

Tequila Grill and Sixty-Six Beans Valentine's Dinner & Dessert

Don't miss these great deals in Charlotte Hall! Enjoy a mouthwatering Mexican dinner for two at Tequila Grill for under $30, followed up by decadent desserts and coffee for $10 at Sixty-Six Beans. Visit tequilagrillmd.com or http://www.66beans.com/ for more information.

The Willows Valentine's Day Dinner

Join the Willows in celebrating Valentine's Day with a 5-course dinner for two for $65 per couple. Add a bottle of wine from the Willows' collection to complete your romantic meal! To find out more, or to make reservations, call 301-690-2019.

Celebrate Valentine's Day with Wine and Chocolate
Treat your Valentine to local wines paired with gourmet European chocolates! Visit Port of Leonardtown Winery on February 11th and 12th to sample their wines and chocolate truffles from Chez Nous. For more information call 301-690-2192 or go to http://portofleonardtownwinery.com/.

Fine Dinning for Valentine’s
The Island Bar and Crab House will be offering their Valentine's Dinner on Saturday Feb 11 and Tuesday Feb 14. Treat your Valentine and yourself to a filet and lobster dinner, while enjoying the beautiful views of the Potomac. Special is $100 per couple. Call 301-994-1234 or visit www.stgeorgeislandinnandsuites.com for more information.

Savor the Season, Savor St. Mary’s - Taste the flavors of St. Mary’s County!

        Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a glass of local wine and some gourmet chocolates! St. Mary’s is home to two award winning wineries, Port of Leonardtown Winery and Slack Wines and Vineyards. Slack produces its grapes and wines with food in mind. Try Slack’s dessert wine, Danny Boy Danny, which makes “a perfectly sweet end to a perfectly sweet evening.” Port of Leonardtown Winery offers a great line up of reds, whites and rosés, to complement any meal. Sweeten up your Valentine’s Day with a glass of Autumn Frost, Port of Leonardtown’s Vidal Blanc dessert wine.

        Looking for the perfect companion for local dessert wines? How about some scrumptious sweets? Chez Nous, in downtown Leonardtown, has delectable, handcrafted chocolates that you can take home to share with your Valentine, if you can keep from eating them all yourself!

What’s New and of Note – Keep up-to-date on what’s up-and-coming in St. Mary’s!

        Visit Leonardtown's Chez Nous for ultimate indulgences! - Jeweler Balbina Meyer recently moved her shop "Art In Wire," from Park Avenue to Fenwick Street, reopening as Chez Nous. In addition to her line of fine custom jewelry, Chez Nous offers European-style chocolates produced by Baltimore-based chocolatier Albert Kirchmayr. 240-538-4571

 

Upcoming Events – Be a part of what’s happening in St. Mary’s County!

2nd Saturday at Sotterley
This Saturday, February 11, in honor of Black History Month and as part of the Second Saturday Series, Sotterley Plantation is offering specialty tours entitled, "To Live Enslaved." These specialty tours will run at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. Hear the voices of the past and visit the places where African Americans lived and labored. Call 301-373-2280 or visit http://www.sotterley.org/ for more information.

Dance, Dance, Dance!

Dance a Virginia Reel!
Contra Dance -The Southern MD Traditional Music and Dance Association will host a Contra Dance on Saturday, February 11, 2011, at the St. Andrews Episcopal Church Hall, 44078 St. Andrews Church Road, California, MD 20619. The dance will begin at 7:30. Contra is a fun, traditional American style of social dance. Beginners are more than welcome and are encouraged to come early for friendly instructions and advice. Admission is $8. For more information, go to www.smtmd.org.

Dance the Cha-cha!
Ballroom and Swing Dance Party - Hosts Donna and Brian Jordan welcome you to a special Valentine's Day Dance this Saturday, February 11th. Enjoy an evening of dancing the Foxtrot, Waltz, Tango, Cha-Cha, and more at The House of Dance at 24620 Three Notch Road in Hollywood! Dance lessons will be followed by an evening of open dancing. Doors open at 6:45p.m. with dancing until 11p.m. Admission is $12 per person in advance and $15 at the door. For more information call 301-373-6330 or visit www.thehouseofdance.org.

Dance for Relay for Life!
Valentine's Day Dance Fundraiser for Relay for Life - On Sunday, February 12, Always There Companion Care will be holding a Valentine’s Day Dance to support Relay for Life, from 2 p.m. until 6:00p.m at the Mechanicsville Firehouse Hall. Tickets are $15.00 a couple. There will a raffle and door prizes from local restaurants. For further information or tickets call Colleen Morgan 240-431-1902.

Dance for Vets!
Southern Maryland Vacations for Vets Sweetheart Dance - On Saturday, February 11, a Sweetheart Dance will be held at the Brass Rail in Great Mills from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. to benefit Southern Maryland Vacations for Vets. Admission is $7.00 per adult, children under 12 are free. Vacations for Vets provides free of charge weekend retreats for our recovering troops from military treatment centers. For more information, contact Connie Pennington at 301-904-0707.

The Free State – Enjoy St. Mary’s without spending a dime!

Poetry Open Mic Night
Wednesday, February 08, 2012, 6:30 p.m.
Share a favorite poem or one of your own, or just come to listen! Call 301-475-2846 or visit www.stmalib.org for more information.

Artist Opening Reception
Thursday, February 09, 5p.m.-8p.m.
The public invited to meet artist Willy Yowiski, at the Lexington Park Library Art Gallery. His work, which includes acrylic on canvas, collage, and spray paint on glass and canvas, will be on display. Call 301-863-8188 or visit www.stmalib.org for more information.

Nature Walk at Myrtle Point Park
Sunday, February 12, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day early with a heart healthy hike around the park! Join Bob Boxwell, Sunday afternoon in front of the gates at Myrtle Point Park. Look for signs of winter activities, including the return of the great blue herons to their rookery. For more information call Bob at 410-394-1300 or Dudley at 301-475-1858 E-mail: dlindsley@verizon.net

Savor Rockfish during the Monster Rockfish Festival

The 2nd Annual Monster Rockfish Festival is almost here! The festival is Sunday, October 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Greenwell State Park and this year, there will be even more to enjoy including more rockfish, more food, more fun, more crafters, more vendors, more of just about everything!


New this year is Monster Rockfish Drag Racing! Greenwell's camp counselors tried it out during the summer and it's a lot of fun. Take part in this not-to-be-missed activity, or watch from the sidelines and cheer on the racers! Not sure what Monster Rockfish Drag Racing is? Well, you'll just have to come to the Festival to see it in action.

The 2nd Annual Monster Rockfish Festival offers something for everyone:

• Rockfish tastings and other seasonal culinary delights
• The People's Choice Award for best rockfish dish
• Beer and local wine
• Live music with Hydra FX
• Tours of historic Rosedale Manor
• Awards ceremony for Monster Rockfish Tournament (held the day prior on Saturday, October 29)
• Pony rides
• Horseback riding demos
• Kayaking demos and rides (weather permitting)
• Children's activities
• Artists and crafters and outdoor outfitter vendors

The Festival is also a designated safe Trick-Or-Treat zone. Greenwell will offer candy and other treats to children.

All proceeds benefit the Greenwell Foundation's inclusive programs including horseback riding lessons, kayaking, summer camps and Nature Time. Proceeds also help Greenwell serve as a host site for Southern Maryland Vacations for Vets, a respite program for our nation's wounded servicemen and women.
The Monster Rockfish Tournament takes place the day before on Saturday, October 29. It's the Chesapeake Bay's biggest open rockfish tournament with $130,000 in prizes. And, the Greenwell Foundation receives a portion of the proceeds from the tournament. Click here to learn more about participating in the tournament.

For more information, visit http://www.greenwellfoundation.org/ or call 301-373-9775.

"1878: After the Storm" - Take a Ghost Tour at Sotterley

This year’s Ghosts of Sotterley Tour will take guests back in time to the year 1878, when Sotterley was owned by Dr. Walter Hanson Stone Briscoe and his wife, Emeline. The family’s enjoyment of prosperity, good friends, county notoriety, and living the good life has been interrupted. A vicious hurricane has swept up the East Coast causing a shipwreck at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. Dr. Briscoe has been called upon to treat the survivors. The plantation is reeling from the disaster and teeming with uninvited visitors - the restless spirits of the newly departed as well as the spirits of those long past who have been unsettled by the upheaval. Prepare to encounter both the earthly inhabitants of the time and those not of this earth on this historical and spooky walking tour!

New for 2011 – Additional Tour Nights! This year’s tours will run on October 13, 14, and 15th AND October 21 and 22nd.

Advance reservations are required. Sotterley Plantation cannot accommodate walk-ins. Tour times will begin at 7 p.m. and run every ten minutes. The tours may not be suitable for young children. Please dress appropriately for this spooky outdoor walking tour / production.

Tickets are $13 per person and may be purchased online at http://www.sotterley.org/. Group rates are available by calling Sotterley Plantation's office at 301-373-2280.

Web Design Firm Chosen for New Tourism Website

The web design firm CDF Web Solutions of Rockville, Maryland has been selected as the developer of the new St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism Web site.  The Web site will be developed as a partnership between the St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism, CDF Web Solutions and the St. Mary’s County Department of Information Technology.

CDF Web Solutions designed the Montgomery County Conference and Visitors Bureau Web site, which was the recipient of the Maryland Tourism Council’s 2010 Best Electronic Marketing Award.  The Division of Tourism is excited to be working with CDF and their project partner Enten Marketing.  Together, the firms bring impressive strategic and marketing capabilities that will help refine the county’s tourism message, attract more visitors and increase business within the industry.

The St. Mary’s County Division of Tourism website, www.visitstmarysmd.com, promotes St. Mary’s County as a visitor destination and tourism and hospitality-related businesses in St. Mary’s County. 

History Underground: Archaeology Weekend at HSMC

Get the scoop on what’s underground at Historic St. Mary’s City during Tidewater Archaeology Weekend, July 23 and 24! Discover what it’s like to be an archaeologist exploring one of the nation’s best-preserved colonial archaeology sites.

Take a tour of excavations at the home of Maryland’s first governor site and discover what stains in the soil reveal about Maryland’s history. Work alongside the pros as they recover artifacts, bits of Maryland’s past, by screening excavated soil. An exhibit of artifacts recovered from the site will be on display. Those who follow the chief archaeologist’s blog about this year’s findings may see some of the pieces they’ve been reading about. Check out the blog at (www.stmaryscity.org/Archaeology/Dispatch.html).

Sign up for a tour of the Archaeology Laboratory when you arrive at the Visitor Center (18751 Hogaboom Lane), and discover what happens to artifacts after they are recovered. This is the only time the lab is open to the public and space is limited. Tours begin at 11:00, 1:00, 2:30, or 4:00.

At 2 p.m., meet Historic St. Mary's City’s director of research, Dr. Henry Miller, at the Margaret Brent Gazebo for a one-hour walking tour. Find out how Historic St. Mary’s City has reconstructed buildings that stood some 375 years ago using scant clues assembled by archaeologists and historians.

This summer’s excavations focus on the back yard of the Calvert House, built by Maryland’s first governor, Leonard Calvert, in the first few years of the settlement. The Calvert House served as the first state house and the largest inn in St. Mary’s. In 1645, the house was the headquarters for a rebellion against Lord Baltimore and a fort, named “Mr. Pope’s Fort,” was built around it. When Governor Calvert retook the colony in 1646, he regained the house and filled in the fort ditch. Calvert died in the house in 1647.

The site is open between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on each day of the event. Special activities are included in museum admission ($10 adults; $9 seniors; and $6 youth. Children 5 years and under visit free.) Food and beverages will be available for purchase from vendors.

For more information about the museum, archaeology, or this event, visit http://www.stmaryscity.org/ or call 240-895-4990 or 800-SMC-1634.

Fitzmaurice to Perform at CSM's Twilight Performance Series

Returning to the College of Southern Maryland’s fifth anniversary Twilight Performance Series will be local band, Fitzmaurice! Formed in 2006 by identical twins Maria and Sarah Fitzmaurice, Brandon Snelling and Mike Simms, Fitzmaurice has a unique style with influences from bluegrass, country, jazz, classical, international folk and classic rock.


In addition to providing vocals for the group, Maria Fitzmaurice plays the guitar and Sarah Fitzmaurice plays the bass. Snelling plays the mandolin, with Simms on the banjo and Aaron Malone on the fiddle. Newly added to the ensemble are drums played by multi-instrumentalist, producer, Grammy-nominated recording engineer, singer and song writer, Jeff Covert.

Fitzmaurice is currently No. 29 on the Roots Music Report nationwide for bluegrass and No. 2 in the state of Maryland for all genres. They recently signed with Infindel Records, a record label based in Hoboken, NJ.

For the College of Southern Maryland’s fifth Twilight Performance Series, Fitzmaurice performs July 12 at the Leonardtown Campus. For more information on Fitzmaurice visit their website at http://www.reverbnation.com/fitzmauriceband or their facebook fanpage at http://www.facebook.com/fitzmaurice.band.

Other bands to perform in July at Twilight will be Adrian Duke’s Jazztet and Another Level. Performances take place at the Leonardtown Campus on Tuesdays, July 12, 19 and 26. All performances will begin at 6:45 p.m.

In the event of inclement weather, performances will move indoors. On the Leonardtown Campus, performances will move to Building A in the Auditorium.

Food and beverages will be available to purchase from Chick-fil-A on the Leonardtown campus. For menu and pricing visit www.csmd.edu/arts/TwilightSeries.

In its fifth season the Twilight Performance Series is a free, family-friendly evening of entertainment held on each campus. For information on the Twilight Performance Series, call 301-934-7703 or visit www.csmd.edu/arts.

CSM’s campuses are accessible to patrons with disabilities. Audio description for the visually impaired and sign language interpretation for the hearing impaired are available with a minimum two week advanced notice. If you are interested in these services, please contact the academic support/ADA coordinator at 301-934-7614.

Joseph McGill to Speak at Sotterley Plantation - "Slave Cabin Project"



Historian Joseph McGill, Program
Officer for the National Trust for
Historic Preservation, adds Sotterley
Plantation's original 1830's Slave
Cabin to his "Slave Cabin Project",
as he continues his journey
throughout the Southeast.



Sotterley Plantation is presenting Joseph McGill's "Slave Cabin Project" on Sunday, July 10, 2011 at 1:00 p.m., as part of the 2011 Speaker Series at Sotterley.

The night prior to Joseph McGill's Sunday presentation, he will spend the evening in our original 1830's Slave Cabin. For the last year, he has been making his way throughout the Southeast sleeping in these historic structures in order to honor the memory of all the people who lived in these cabins and to bring much-needed attention and resources to slave cabin restoration. In a recent interview with NPR, McGill said, "You get inside these walls and you think about that time of slavery and wonder what went through these people's minds, because within these walls was probably the easiest time of their lives. We know that beyond those walls there was a lot of hard work and toil."

The Sotterley Speaker Series events are free to the public. Please call for reservations, as seating is limited: 301-373-2280. 

For more information, visit the links below:

http://mtairy.patch.com/articles/cliveden-opens-its-servants-quarters-for-the-first-time-in-its-history

http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20110514/ARTICLES/110519748/1005/sports?Title=-No-heading-
http://articles.boston.com/2011-05-26/travel/29587103_1_slave-quarters-urban-slave-property-owners

http://www.fox8live.com/content/news/heartoflouisiana/story/Heart-of-Louisiana-Evergreen-Plantation/y2Z0NCfdtkeWfzK06l0GDw.cspx

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=129281290

http://www.presnc.org/Preservation-News-Roundup/Slave-Cabin-Project

http://www.visitlexingtonmo.com/images/file/SlaveCabinProject.pdf

http://www.wvpubcast.org/newsarticle.aspx?id=18850

4th of July Festivities in St. Mary's County

St. Mary's County has a number of events over the 4th of July weekend where you can enjoy live music, fireworks, and time with family and friends.

Independence Day Weekend: Thomas Jefferson in his own words - River Concert Series

The Chesapeake Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag will offer readings from Thomas Jefferson set to music and lots of festive, patriotic music, plus a salute to Naval Aviation's 100th Anniversary during the River Concert Series on July 1!  There will also be fireworks at the end of the concert.  The concert begins at 7 p.m. at St. Mary's College of Maryland on the lawn of the Townhouse Green.  Food and beverages will be available for purchase.  For more information, call 240-895-4107 or visit http://www.riverconcertseries.org/.  

Independence Day Celebration - Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department

On July 2, the Hollywood Volunteer Fire Department will be holding it's Independence Day Celebration from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.!  There will be a variety of food vendors; a car, truck and bike show; kids games; live music by The Craze and HydraFX; and fireworks.  The cost is $5 per vehicle for spectators parking all day.  For more information, call 301-373-2900 or click here to view the flyer.

An Independence Day Celebration Concert - Sotterley Plantation

Sotterley Plantation is holding its annual Independence Day Celebration Concert on July 3 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.!  The event features the patriotic music renditions of the Chesapeake Orchestra Brass Quintet led by Maestro Jeffrey Silberschlag of St. Mary's College of Maryland.  Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch, lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a wonderful afternoon of music on the Portico amidst the breathtaking view of the Patuxent River.  Bruster's Real Ice Cream, "On A Roll," and Sir Pops A Lots will be selling concessions.  There will also be a brown bag raffle, silent auction, and childrens activities.  All those with Military ID and their families are invited to celebrate this event free of charge.  General admission is $10 per vehicle.  For more information, call 301-373-2280 or visit http://www.sotterley.org/.

Experience Military Life at a Confederate Encampment at Cecil's Old Mill

Historian John Griffin wrote, "It is said that the first casualty of war is truth and that the victors write and perpetuate the history. There are two sides to every story, two sides to a conflict, and while it would seem simple to record and report history, it has always been open to different interpretations. Somewhere along the line the Southern perspective has been obscured." The Sons of Confederate Veterans is an organization dedicated preserving and presenting the Southern perspective to the War Between The States.


On Saturday, June 18th at the Cecil's Historic District in Great Mills, Maryland, the life of the Southern soldier in 1861 will be recreated during the SCV Camp #1359, Captain Vincent Camalier Encampment. Members of SCV Camp #1359 will faithfully recreate an encampment of 10 canvas tents, authentically furnished in 19th century military style. Using their historically accurate uniforms, weapons, and equipment, camp members will educate visitors on the history of the war as experienced by the Southern soldier.

The day will begin with the Striking of the Colors by the SCV Honor Guard. Throughout the day there will be black powder firing demonstrations, campfire cooking exhibits, and tours of the soldiers sleeping quarters. There will also be an opportunity for kids to play some of the popular children's games from that time. Folksinger Bob Simmons will perform many of his original songs about the history of St. Mary's. There will be live bluegrass music from 1-3 p.m. on the front porch of Cecil's Country Store, and storyteller/historian, J.B. Couch will be on hand to delight visitors with his talents. Tasty food and cool drinks will be available for sale by the Optimist Club, with ice cream across the street at the Old Mill.

While at the encampment, visitors can also tour Cecil's Old Mill. Located in one of Maryland’s first Industrial Districts, Cecil's Mill was originally built as a cotton/ textile factory in the 1800's. It was later transformed into a grist mill and saw mill. After restoration in the late 70's, Cecil's Old Mill became a National Landmark in Historic St. Mary's County. Today, the mill exhibits artifacts including its working water wheel, and is home to some of the finest local arts and handmade crafts for sale. The historic district also includes Cecil’s Country Store and Post Office.

Cecil's Old Mill is located at 20854 Indian Bridge Road, Great Mills, MD. The encampment will be open to the public between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 18th, 2011. For more information on Cecil's Old Mill, call 301-994-1510 or visit their Facebook page.

For additional information, contact Dawna Wible at 301-994-9622. Questions may be e-mailed to Dawna at dmwible@md.metrocast.net.

Family Fun with St. Clement's Island Heritage

St. Clement’s Island Heritage Day is this Saturday, June 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.! Take a free boat ride on the St. Clement’s Island Museum’s water taxi or the Mildred Belle, an historic oyster buy boat used by the Living Classrooms of the National Capital region.

Discover St. Clement’s Island State Park and its history as the site of Maryland’s first colonial landing in 1634. Kids will enjoy playing heritage games and listening to the folk tunes of Joe Norris from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Other participants include Frank Maio with information and gear of the colonial militia, Cathy Gallagher from Historic St. Mary’s City with hands-on learning about the Native Americans, and reenactors portraying the island’s first colonial owner Dr. Thomas Gerard and his little daughter, Elizabeth.

Enjoy the scenic and natural beauty of the island, Potomac River, and waterfowl with a walk along the hiking trail with Greg Kerns from Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro, an Osprey expert. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the pavilion or any of the tables dotting the island shore. The recreated Blackistone Lighthouse will be open and available for tours. Wear comfortable walking shoes, sun screen, and bring the camera, binoculars and plenty of water (available for sale on the island and in the museum store). Children may enjoy making sandcastles on the beach area, but no swimming is allowed.

In addition, the St. Clement's Island Museum will be open with free admission from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is handicap accessible (the island is not handicap accessible). A 13-minute orientation film gives the visitor a comprehensive history of the island and the building of the Blackistone Lighthouse replica. Local photographer Bill Conway will offer an exhibit of St. Clement’s Island photos. The Crab Claw Museum Store will be open with an array of unique gifts, souvenirs, home decor, clothing, jewelry, books, and so much more.

Located on the museum grounds will be the St. Mary’s County Master Gardeners with free Black-eyed Susan seed packets and abundant information about how to raise and maintain Maryland’s official state flower.

The St. Clement’s Island Museum is located at 38370 Point Breeze Road in Colton’s Point, MD. For more information please call the St. Mary's County Museum Division at 301-769-2222 or visit www.stmarysmd.com/recreate/museums. In the event of rain or high wind boat service will be canceled and exhibitors and elements of the program will be moved inside the museum.

Sample Craft Brews during BeerFest this Sunday

The Beer Festival is this Sunday, May 22, at Historic St. Mary’s City from noon until 6 p.m.!  Activities include music by GeeZer and 25th Hour Band; special tours of the Van Sweringen’s Ordinary exhibit (one of the first taverns of the colony); and a beer-making demonstration by local home brewers, the Hollywood Hopheads. There will also be a demonstration of a cider press with information on the history of cider in the colony.

Visitors will have the opportunity to sample local cuisine (provided by Bear Creek Barbeque and Canards) while tasting the offerings of craft brewers, including Redhook, Widmer Bros., Kona, Goose Island, Fordham, Dominion and Star Hill.

Craft and artist vendors will also be on hand throughout the day, including: Custom Tees; the Happy Turner in Owings; My Cause Water; Sarah Houde Pottery; the Shoppes of Southern Maryland; Tidewater Artist; the Weekend Woodshop; Whiskey Creek Woodworks; and Wood Goodies.

All proceeds from this event will go toward the education and research programs at the museum. Admission is $20 for tasters, $10 for designated drivers, and free for children ages 12 and under. A Kid’s Tent will also be available for our young visitors. Parking is free.

The event is being sponsored by the Historic St. Mary’s City Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the museum.

For more information call the Historic St. Mary’s City Foundation at 240-895-4977, email support@stmaryscity.org, or visit the website at http://www.stmaryscitybeerfest.org/.

The Newtowne Players Win Acting, Prop Awards at Eastern States Theatre Association Regional Festival

The Newtowne Players’ production of woman: revised won acting and prop creativity awards at the Eastern States Theatre Association Regional Festival on April 16 in Pottstown, PA, the first time the troupe has advanced to this festival!  The Eastern States Theatre Association represents New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. The Newtowne Players represented the state of Maryland after winning the 2011 Maryland Community Theatre Festival.

Actress Valarie Green was recognized for outstanding achievement in acting for her performance in the lead role of “woman,” and the play also received an award for prop creativity for its wombat.

Woman: revised is an original one-act play by local author Trish Cole, which puts a comedic face on the mundane act of revising the dictionary definition of the word “woman.” Over the course of the play, the woman discovers she is no longer the classic feminine sweetheart she once was and learns to accept that her 21st century definition is more inclusive than she wanted. Besides Green, other cast members include Tina Fratantuono, Amie Gilligan, Andy Pollard, Gloria Ranta, and director Bill Scarafia.

Cole also wrote Butterfly, which represented The Newtowne Players at the 2010 Maryland Community Theatre Festival.

For more information, call 301-737-5447 or visit http://www.newtowneplayers.org/.

Dig into Gardening this May in St. Mary's County

May is a great time to hone your gardening skills and enjoy being out in your garden.  There are two upcoming events that offer the opportunity for both: Summerseat's Annual Plant Sale and The Garden Fair at Sotterley Plantation!

9th Annual Summerseat Plant Sale

The 9th Annual Plant Sale, hosted by Summerseat Farm, will be on Saturday, May 7, 2011 (rain or shine) from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.! Choose from many annual and perennial plants, plus herb and vegetable plants, assorted shrubs, trees, hanging baskets, planted pots, crafts, and gifts for Mothers Day. There will be educational opportunities to hone your gardening skills as well. Plus, take a tour of the 1884 Manor House, walk the lovely grounds with the gardens in bloom, and check out the herd of American buffalo. The kids will enjoy fun activities and a petting zoo.

Summerseat Farm is located at 26655 Three Notch Road in Mechanicsville. Admission is free! For more information, call 301-373-6607 or 301-373-5858, visit http://www.summerseat.org/, or email info@summerseat.org.

The Garden Fair at Sotterley Plantation

The Third Annual Garden Fair at Sotterley Plantation will take place the weekend of May 14 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering something for everyone!  Abounding with beauty and activity, guests are invited to enjoy presentations, demonstrations, and exhibits on a variety of garden and environmental topics by local experts and University of Maryland Extension - St. Mary’s County Master Gardeners. Take a tour through the magnificent Colonial Revival Gardens.  Pick up lovely additions for your garden at the Sotterley Garden Guild Plant Sale.  There will be children’s programs and activities too, including a petting zoo and kite flying.

The new Plantation House Tour will be offered at half-price for $5 per person on both days as well!

Admission is $7 for one day; $10 for a two day pass (Sotterley Members free the second day); Children under 12 are free.  For more information, call 301-373-2280 or visit http://www.sotterley.org/.

Celebrate the Earth with Woodlawn

Woodlawn Farm and Slack Winery invite you to join them in celebrating Earth Day 2011 on April 22 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Woodlawn Farm on Wynne Road in Ridge, Maryland.  Get into the spirit of Spring with the Blessing the Grapes in the Woodlawn vineyard, barrel sampling of young red wines from Slack Winery, egg coloring, an environmental scavenger hunt, a reading of the Lorax for children, and --- for adults only --- the release of Slack Tide Blanc.

Several friends from the local community of sustainable industries will also be on hand to share their knowledge and home-grown products.  Participants and vendors include:

• Dr. Stacey Dent from The Good Earth Natural Foods Company
• Shannon Schmidt from Solar Tech Inc.
• Dan Sweeney from BluHaven Piers
• Rich Pelz from Circle C Oyster Ranch
• Dan Shade from Dan Shade Custom Sawmill
• Christina Allen from Corn Crib Studio
• Elizabeth Ayres (writer)
• Tucker Grube-O'Brien from Slack Winery to offer barrel tastings
• Jim Grube, Master Gardener from Woodlawn Farm
• Terrapin Salad Boxes

Admission to the event is free!  For more information, call 301-872-5175.