There is a full schedule of events around Baltimore's Inner Harbor and at the Maryland State Fair. Navy Week runs through September 6th. Navy Bands will be playing music -- from ceremonial to jazz and swing -- at various locations.
Talk about networking opportunities! In Baltimore, it doesn't get better than this.
On behalf of the Michael Phelps Foundation, you and three friends are invited to be part of a truly memorable day that that will help raise money for remarkable philanthropic initiatives.
You will be joined by one of the greatest Olympians of all time, Michael Phelps, along with many of his friends and business partners, in the inaugural Michael Phelps Foundation Golf Classic to benefit the Michael Phelps Foundation, plus hotel accommodations at the Baltimore Hilton (2 rooms for 4 guests).
Fourteen-time Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps established the Foundation with the $1,000,000 bonus he received from longtime partner Speedo for capturing eight gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Games.
This one-of-a-kind golf tournament hosted in his hometown of Baltimore, MD, will feature a meet and greet with Michael and supporting his philanthropic efforts while playing golf on one of Maryland’s finest courses, Hayfields Country Club, Baltimore.
The Hayfields Country Club is a championship golf course that has challenged such famed golfers as Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson,Hale Irwin, Lee Trevino, Tom Kite and many more. The Club, developed on the historic Hayfields Mansion site that utilizes buildings predating 1800, offers a stunning test of golf that stretches out over 7,000 yards complete with bent grass from tee to green, 68 bunkers and 6 ponds, and ample fairways framed by native grass areas that harkens back to the Timothy Hay cultivated on the site’s original farm.
Founded in 1960, Baltimore Heritage, Inc. is Baltimore’s nonprofit historic and architectural preservation organization.
Join Baltimore Heritage on their next Behind the Scenes tour. The Cylburn Arboretum Association is hosting a tour of the historic Cylburn Mansion, a stroll through the grounds to view some less visited historic sites, and a peek at their new visitors center.
Oh yes, and a glass of wine on the mansion veranda.
From Baltimore Heritage:
Cylburn began as the private estate of Jesse Tyson, president of the Baltimore Chrome Works Company and a successful businessman. Tyson began building the mansion in 1863 as a summer home for himself and his mother. He completed it in 1888 at age 61 and after marrying the 19 year old debutante, Edyth Johns. (Tyson is said to have remarked at this time, “"I have the fairest wife, the fastest horses, and the finest house in Maryland.")
With its Italianate design, stone from Tyson’s own Bare Hills quarry (in Baltimore County), and interior of hardwood, grand fireplaces, and ornate plasterwork, he was at least correct about the quality of his house. After Ms. Johns’ death in 1942, Baltimore City purchased the estate for $42,300.
In 1954, the property became the “Cylburn Wildflower Preserve and Garden Center,” and a group of volunteers designed trails and gardens for the park. The named officially changed to “Cylburn Arboretum” in 1984, and the property now covers over 200 acres of grounds with many historic sites.
Please join us and our hosts from the Cylburn Arboretum Association on a tour of the mansion and other historic sites. We’ll meet at the arboretum’s new visitor’s center, the Vollmer Center, which was dedicated earlier this year to get a taste of the new along with a tour of the historic.
There will be two identical tours on the same evening. Please sign up for only one.
Date: Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Time: Tour 1 -- 5:15 p.m. to 6:15, with reception to follow
We've been doing some deep house cleaning and I keep running across things that just don't make sense to keep. Either they've been in boxes for decades or haven't been used in well over a year. And, some things are simply mystery items.
Take the case of our little cloisonné box. We only see it from time to time, when we move from one place to another. Otherwise, it's been housed in a carton with other stuff for decades.
I decided to do a bit of research on the little box. I approached is as if I were working on a copywriting project for a product I knew little about and a project that came with no creative brief. It was a fascinating and educational few hours of research.
The cloisonné box is apparently Russian, from the very early 20th-century, and it has a portrait of Dobrynya Nikitich on the hinged lid. (Nikitich was the second most popular of the Bogatyrs, you know.)
The back is intricate and clearly hallmarked in three places. The inside of the lid is marked in three places, also. I knew nothing about Russian silver hallmarks, but I learned. I learned a lot. Again, fascinating.
Stage two of the process: What to do with the little box now?
I didn't think the market would be very strong in Baltimore and it might be difficult to list and it didn't seem to be a Craig's List type of item...
Until the current house cleaning I'd only purchased some things from eBay. I'd never sold there. I made my seller account active -- another learning experience -- and I listed the box.
It's getting a couple of bids from the Russian Federation. And, I've learned that, yes, I can ship there.
The whole project is fun and you can tag me as a life-long-learner. The listing is here.
UPDATE 9/7/2010:
Well, this research and writing project turned out nicely! By way of actively promoting the auction on Twitter and, on this blog (take a deep breath)...
The little Russian Box sold on eBay for $14,101.
Kudos to my partner, Jacob, for finding the original painting of Nikitich that was used as the portrait on the lid of the box. That seemed to make a big difference in the sale price.
He was writing to let us all know about the new, interactive, online exhibit featuring the "MLK Construction Cam" with a gallery of archived images of the construction site, a dramatic virtual tour designed by their artists and graphic designers, a photo gallery, video testimonials and more.
All combined, this will give you a first-hand look at exactly how much progress the foundation is making, and how beautiful this national memorial to Dr Martin Luther King will all be once it's finished and installed on our National Mall.
While I fully support the MLK Memorial, I wonder why the architectural stand-ins in the virtual tour look like the largest Blue Man Group in the universe.
If you aren't familiar with the MLK Memorial project, you should be. Here's the mission statement and vision:
Mission: To commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by leading a collaborative funding, design, and construction process in the creation of a memorial to honor his national and international contributions to world peace through non-violent social change.
Vision: Dr. King championed a movement that draws fully from the deep well of America's potential for freedom, opportunity, and justice. His vision of America is captured in his message of hope and possibility for a future anchored in dignity, sensitivity, and mutual respect; a message that challenges each of us to recognize that America's true strength lies in its diversity of talents. The vision of a memorial in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that captures the essence of his message, a message in which he so eloquently affirms the commanding tenants of the American Dream — Freedom, Democracy and Opportunity for All; a noble quest that gained him the Nobel Peace Prize and one that continues to influence people and societies throughout the world. Upon reflection, we are reminded that Dr. King's lifelong dedication to the idea of achieving human dignity through global relationships of well being has served to instill a broader and deeper sense of duty within each of us— a duty to be both responsible citizens and conscientious stewards of freedom and democracy.
I know the economy and the times are tough right now. That said, it would be wonderful if you'd consider sending a few dollars to support the project. If you can't, please take some time to learn more about the project and tell your friends. It's important that you do.
Here are the most recent project updates:
Foundation for the Stone of Hope has been poured,
The support structure for the inscription wall has been erected,
The 300 piles to support the Memorial as a whole have been laid,
In September the Stone of Hope and Mountain of Despair will be on the site,
Over 200 Cherry Blossom trees are being cultivated, and the foundation plans to dedicate the memorial in late 2011.
Think about what this memorial means... Do what you can to promote it.
Once upon a time I didn't think I liked Riesling wines. But then again, I'd never tasted a really good one. If you are not familiar with the variety you should do yourself a favor and let a wine expert guide you on your early purchases. Prices for good Rieslings are generally on the low end of the wine scale price chart, however the bottle above is $180. from K&L Wine Merchants in San Francisco.
Locally, some of the best wine advice I've ever received comes from the folks at The Wine Source at 3601 Elm Avenue in the Hampden neighborhood.
From Baltimore's very own Wine Source:
No other grape variety in the world is as noble and versatile as Riesling, and no other land is better suited for it than the many fine regions of Germany. Whether from the Mosel, Rheingau, Nahe or any of the numerous other regions, Germany is, arguably, home to the purest, most complex Rieslings in the world. This weekend, we are pleased to offer four very different examples from across Germany that range from the bone dry to the subtly sweet. I strongly encourage Riesling lovers, and doubters alike, to taste this terrific line-up.
Eliza Benedict cherishes her peaceful, ordinary suburban life with her successful husband and children, thirteen-year-old Iso and eight-year-old Albie. But her tranquillity is shattered when she receives a letter from the last person she ever expects—or wants—to hear from: Walter Bowman. There was your photo, in a magazine. Of course, you are older now. Still, I'd know you anywhere.
In the summer of 1985, when she was fifteen, Eliza was kidnapped by Walter and held hostage for almost six weeks. He had killed at least one girl and Eliza always suspected he had other victims as well. Now on death row in Virginia for the rape and murder of his final victim, Walter seems to be making a heartfelt act of contrition as his execution nears. Though Eliza wants nothing to do with him, she's never forgotten that Walter was most unpredictable when ignored. Desperate to shelter her children from this undisclosed trauma in her past, she cautiously makes contact with Walter. She's always wondered why Walter let her live, and perhaps now he'll tell her—and share the truth about his other victims.
Yet as Walter presses her for more and deeper contact, it becomes clear that he is after something greater than forgiveness. He wants Eliza to remember what really happened that long-ago summer. He wants her to save his life. And Eliza, who has worked hard for her comfortable, cocooned life, will do anything to protect it—even if it means finally facing the events of that horrifying summer and the terrible truth she's kept buried inside.
An edgy, utterly gripping tale of psychological manipulation that will leave readers racing to the final page, I'd Know You Anywhere is a virtuoso performance from acclaimed, award-winning author Laura Lippman that is sure to be her biggest hit yet.
Announcing the Nineteenth Annual Washington D.C. Collectible Fountain Pen Supershow, the world's largest pen show. The preshow is August 12th, 13th, open to the public August 14th and 15th, 2010. The Sheraton Premiere at Tysons Corner is hosting the event and there is a free limo from Dulles Airport.
Easy access from National or Dulles - High Profile Retail Area - Free Parking.
Reduced Pen Show Room Rates: $109 (1-800-325-3535 or 1-703-448-1234).
There is also a free limo to both Tysons Malls, the Metro Subway, Dulles Airport, and to local restaurants.
I just received a note from the folks at Fell's Point Corner Theatre. They are casting for their production of Mauritius, the extraordinary play by TV crime and drama writer, Theresa Rebeck.
There are some savory, get-your-teeth-into-them parts in this Rebeck script. It's a beauty. If you are a male actor between 50 and 60 years of age, the role of Philip is what you've been waiting for. Philip is terribly obdurate. It's fun role.
Here's the notice:
Fells Point Corner Theatre will be holding auditions for MAURITIUS by Theresa Rebeck on Monday, August 23, and Tuesday, August 24 at 7:30 PM (both days) at the theater, 251 South Ann Street, Baltimore, MD. All roles are non-equity, and all roles are open. Headshots and resumes are appreciated, but not required. Rehearsing a monologue will not be necessary; prepare to read from the script.
SYNOPSIS
Jackie and Mary are half-sisters who inherit a book of rare stamps that may contain the "crown jewel" of the stamp-collecting world. As the sisters quarrel over ownership and try to determine authenticity, they attract the attention of three characters who take a keen interest in the collection and whose desire for the stamps grows increasingly sinister. Which of the three men can be trusted with the sale, which could be worth megabucks? Mauritius is a gripping blend of sharp comedy and heart-pounding drama that simmers with constant surprise.
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Jackie- mid twenties Philip- 50-60 years old Dennis- 35-40 years old Sterling- 40-50 years old Mary- 35 to 40 years old
Rehearsals will begin in mid October and run through the end of 2010 with breaks for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Performance dates are January 14 to February 13, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 PM, and Sunday matinees at 2 PM. There will also be two Thursday night performances at 8 PM.
For more information please email Mark Steckbeck, the director, at steck57@verizon.net
If I could commit to the rehearsal and production schedule I would be there auditioning. I play obdurate very well. I kid you not.
There's going to be a crab cake rumble at the Inner Harbor on Friday, August 6th 2010 at 1:30PM.
The Food Network's Food Feuds show is coming to Baltimore. Food Network chef Michael Symon is pitting Gertrude's crab cakes against Faidley's. Head down to Rash Field for the fun and the taping.
Gertrude's will be providing snacks and drinks.
Come on down and cheer for your favorite Baltimore Crab Cake! And, who knows... you just might get some face time on Food Feuds!
Why is the Francis Scott Key Monument on Eutaw Place sometimes called the monument that cigars built?
Who was Baltimore’s great hero in the Mexican War of 1846-7 and how is he connected to the Maryland State Song, James Ryder Randall’s poem “Maryland My Maryland”?
Please join us for stroll through historic Bolton Hill and an evening of Baltimore history as told through these and other stories of our public monuments. Our tour guides will be Cindy Kelly, author of a soon-to-be-published book on Baltimore’s monuments, and monument preservation leader Sandy Sparks.
Tour Information
Date: Tuesday, August 10, 2010 Time: 6:00 to 7:15 p.m.
Place: Meet at the Francis Scott Key Monument at Eutaw Place and Lanvale St. Park along the street Cost: $10 for members / $20 for non-members (Cold water is included!)
Baltimore was dubbed the “Monumental City” by John Quincy Adams in 1827 when we had all of two public monuments (can you guess which two?).
Today Baltimore has over 300 monuments dotting parks, medians, sidewalks, and other locations throughout the city. Our tour will focus on a cluster of monuments in the historic Bolton Hill neighborhood.
In addition to the Key monument (by noted French sculptor Jean Marius Antonin Mercie) and the Civil War memorial on Mt. Royal Avenue, we’ll learn an array of Baltimore history, including: how Baltimore successfully recycled an old bridge sculpture from 1880 into four separate pieces that dot the neighborhood; why Baltimore’s Revolutionary War monument is called the “Maryland Line Monument,” why it is dedicated to the “Bayonets of the Continental Army,” and even where Maryland got its nickname “The Old Line State”; and about the earliest history of the Rinehart School at MICA through pieces that remain on Mount Royal Avenue from a centennial celebration in 1996.
Please join us and our hosts Cindy Kelly and Sandy Sparks for an evening of Baltimore stories and a stroll through historic Bolton Hill. The tour is the long-overdue sequel to a tour of monuments our guides hosted in 2008 in Wyman Park, and is in anticipation of the publication of a book by Ms. Kelly on the city’s public monuments due out this winter.
Robin Budish is the new Executive Director of Fell's Point Main Street. The announcement was made by FPMS President, Janette Barth.
I had the pleasure of working with Robin for several years when she was Executive Director of The Historic Charles Street Association. I hope the folks at FPMS know how lucky they are to have such a dedicated, talented, and creative new team member.
And, don't forget that there are still 4 films remaining in Fell's Point's Films on the Pier series for 2010.
The movies begin at 8:45PM on the Broadway Pier. Bring you own chair. Oh yes, they are free.
