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Nominees Now Being Accepted for Marylands Most Beautiful People Volunteer Awards
A nominee can be a tour guide at a museum or historic landmark, the person who organizes a local fair or parade, or someone who generously gives their time to community support services. Nomination forms are available at the downtown Visitor Welcome Center in Hagerstown, by contacting the Maryland You are Beautiful Program at (410) 347-2270 or by visiting the Maryland You are Beautiful Program's web site at www.dnr.state.md.us/myab. All local nominees
will be honored at the annual Washington County's Most Wonderful Citizens
ceremony held in Hagerstown. One nominee from each county and Baltimore
City will be chosen to represent the nominees from their area at the November
statewide awards ceremony in Annapolis hosted by Governor Robert L. Ehrlich,
Jr., Lt. Governor Michael S. Steele, and other dignitaries. The Maryland
You are Beautiful Program was developed to foster pride and economic progress
in our State. Over the years, this program has generated tremendous State
pride by recognizing thousands of unsung heroes whose volunteer service
makes Maryland a better place to live, work and visit.
Washington County Board of County Commissioners Recognize Tourism Week
Riford told the Board that the annual financial audit of the organization has been completed, and that the tourism industry has recovered in Washington County with local hotel occupancies up significantly in 2004. Visitation to local attractions also increased. More than 5,300 county citizens are employed in tourism, Washington County's 4th largest industry. According to the Maryland Office of Tourism Development, last year 1.2 million visitors spent over $176 million in Washington County. That figure does not include visits to the local retail malls, Riford said. The CVB's financial situation has improved during the last fourteen months, and new events, attractions, and museums are working closely with the organization. Riford thanked the Commissioners for forgiveness of a $20,000 loan that helped erase a $180,000 deficit the bureau faced at the time he became CEO. Revenue for 2004 was about $770,000; expenses were lower but advertising increased. Loans have been repaid and the Bureau's line of credit balance was cut by two-thirds in 2004. The Bureau has taken an active role in assisting local groups and their tourism marketing efforts. Public relations efforts have brought positive attention to Washington County.
CVB Releases Annual Report
CVB President Tom Riford says, "There's been a 13-percent jump in people staying at hotels, a 25-percent increase in people using the campgrounds in our county, and a big jump in convention business -- it's up 40-percent." Riford also points out that the citizens of Washington County benefit from taxes collected from tourism. "Washington County received more than 1.3-million dollars from hotel taxes. The increased figures mean money coming into the county is staying here and also helping to bring additional jobs." Riford says, "We're very lucky that Washington County has a significant number of visitors that come here but what that also means is a large number of people who work in tourism. Over 5,300 employees work in Washington County in the leisure and hospitality class." The CVB expects tourism to increase in 2005.
Hagerstown-Washington County 2005-2006 Visitors Guide Now Available
This year's guide
expands on the award-winning design of earlier Visitors Guides and is
a handy reference for special events, golf, outdoor activities, attractions,
dining, shopping and more. The cover image of Burnside Bridge was taken
by award-winning photographer Don Cooper who worked as a National Geographic
photographer for 28 years.
Washington County Attractions Featured on National Geographic Map
The ARC recognizes the economic potential of tourism for the region and hopes to spur economic growth by drawing tourist dollars to the area. "This map delivers a taste of Appalachia's distinctive culture and heritage to a wide audience, exposing this 'undiscovered national treasure' to many first-time visitors," the ARC said in a news release. Attractions on the map range from the well known to the more obscure. Local sites featured are Antietam National Battlefield, the C&O Canal National Park, Sideling Hill Exhibit Center, and more. Events from throughout Maryland's part of the ARC are also listed. The Appalachian region covers all of West Virginia and parts of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, South Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia. The ARC made a grant of $85,000 to the National Geographic Society for development of the map. It was distributed as an insert in the April issue of National Geographic Traveler magazine, which has about 900,000 subscribers, and can also be purchased from National Geographic. The Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau submitted sites and events for the project. Tourism offices throughout Appalachia will distribute another 300,000 copies. The ARC also plans to make the map available to schools, libraries and civic groups. An Internet version of the map, which has information on about 130 attractions, is available at www.nationalgeographic.com/appalachia. It contains links to both the individual attractions and local tourism offices. Additional attractions will be added every three months. The Web site got 50,000 hits during its first month.
Free Copies of 2005 Hagerstown Almanack Available At The CVB
The Almanack is an annual publication serving as a source for regional weather predictions, useful household and farm information, and insights into everyday living. It also is the home of the famous annual "woolly bear caterpillar contest." The Almanack has a long history and is known as the second oldest almanac in the United States and the longest published family-owned almanac. At 208 years old, it's one of the most talked about almanacs around the nation. News organizations such as USA Today, U.S. News and World Report, and NBC-TV have described the Hagerstown Almanack as "out forecasting" the National Weather Service, and being more accurate than most other weather almanacs. Published by The Gruber Almanack Company, The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanac remains family owned and operated by the heirs of John Gruber. The Almanack is available at the Hagerstown Visitor Center, the I-70 East and West Visitor Welcome Centers, and the Sideling Hill Visitor Welcome Center. The CVB is also distributing the Almanack to convention attendees coming to Washington County throughout the remainder of the year.
Hagerstown Considers a Large Meeting Facility
"The baseball team wants improved facilities to play in, whether it's a refurbished stadium or a new one," says Dick Phoebus of CHIEF, who has worked on a new stadium for the Suns since 1997. "For the first time, this is a professional sports organization that has owned the Suns, not a single owner. Mandalay Sports owns five teams, and they want to stay because they believe Hagerstown is a viable baseball town. They are the best ownership we've had of the Suns."
WBAL - TV 11 Films News Segment at Jellystone Park
Owners Ron and Vicki Vitkun showed the crew many of the Jellystone attractions, including over 90 acres of camping facilities, miniature golf, a pool arcade/game room, bike rentals, and countless daily activities. WBAL - TV's sky team has already done filming in Washington County at Fort Frederick for the "Discover Maryland" series and the crew has plans to return in the near future. WBAL-TV 11 is an NBC affiliate in Baltimore, MD.
Maryland Life Magazine Social at Historic Rockland Residence
Rockland is the residence of Mike Moreland and Jason Daisey, Maryland Life subscribers, and Rockland is one of Washington County's most historic homes. Rockland was built in 1803 by Frisby Tilghman, and at one time consisted of 10,000 acres. The farm is also the birthplace of William Pennington, widely acknowledged as America's first published African-American and author of The Fugitive Blacksmith. Entertainment at the social was provided by The Maryland Symphony Orchestras string quartet and Maryland wines from various wineries in the state were served. Maryland Board members from Washington County include: Tom Riford, President of the Washington County Convention & Visitors Bureau; Art Callaham, Greater Hagerstown Committee; and Paul Giannaris, Nick's Airport Inn. Visit www.maryland-life.com, or call 301-696-1060.
Discovery Station Museum Opens One of the areas newest attractions is designed for children and actually encourages them to touch most of what is on display. Discovery Station at Hagerstown Inc., located in downtown Hagerstown, is an interactive, educational environment housing 43 exhibits from the Maryland Science Center.
The museum's mission statement reads in part, "... an exciting learning experience to stimulate in all people, especially children, a curiosity for discovery ..." Discovery Station will have both static and changing exhibits. Saturdays will feature special programs for families and children. Funding for the museum will be provided through donations and entrance fees.
Pry House Field Hospital Museum Opens at Antietam Battlefield
This museum can teach visitors how lives were saved by modern medical concepts pioneered at the Civil War site. Triage and efficient systems for sorting and transporting patients and managing medical supplies can be traced to a red-brick farmhouse at the battlefield's eastern edge where Union surgeon Jonathan Letterman oversaw the care of thousands of soldiers wounded on what's known as America's single bloodiest day. "What Dr. Letterman set up as a medical system here in 1862 still affects military medical care and civilian medical care to this day," said George Wunderlich, executive director of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. New Pry House Field Hospital Museum exhibits include displays and artifacts such as medicine bottles and amputation kits. Wunderlich said the museum aims to debunk myths about Civil War medicine, including that anesthesia didn't exist, for example, and that military surgeons were too quick to amputate. The museum is open Wed.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Fifteen Washington County Museums Open Doors For 2nd Annual Museum Ramble
Washington County Fine Arts Exhibit - Through August 28th
Thomas (1837-1926) is the most famous in the family for his paintings of the American West. In 1871 he took his first expedition to Yellowstone country and in 1873, he took a similar expedition, making sketches for his two great works, "The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone," which is on view and "The Chasm of the Colorado." This exhibit is sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. Pitzer of Hagerstown, Maryland.
Hagerstown Railroad Museum Now Open at City Park
The Hagerstown Railroad Museum is located at 525 Highland Way, opposite the Mansion House Arts Center. Individuals who want more information on the Hagerstown Railroad Museum can call (301) 739-8393.
Second Annual Chili Cook-off & Music Festival at Hagerstowns Municipal Stadium
The planning committee includes Suns GM Kurt Landes, Washington County Arts Council Executive Director Kevin Moriarty, Hagerstown-Washington County CVB President Tom Riford, South Mountain Recreational Area Superintendent Dan Spedden, City of Hagerstown Public Information Director Karen Giffin, Suns Assistant GM Will Smith, OSI's Toni Rinehart-Sullivan, American Radiology's Shelley Elwood, Sullivan Production's Brian Sullivan, and BP Lesky's Gregg Delauney. More than $15,000 has been raised by this fun September 24th event. The committee is finalizing sponsors, the band schedules, and other activities. Registration for cook teams ends on September 2nd, so get your cook teams registered as soon as possible. The best overall chili will win $1,000! The event will again feature live music from local bands, a KidsZone, interactive events and, of course, chili tasting. Other prizes will be awarded for Best Booth Display and the Peoples Choice Award. For more information, contact the Hagerstown Suns at 301-791-6266. Or see the link from the Suns' website: www.hagerstownsuns.com.
Hagerstown Skate Park Open for 2005 Season
The fee is $5 per participant on weekends and $3 on weeknights. All skaters are required to wear a helmet as well as elbow and knee pads which are available for rent at $1 per hour. Also, all participants are required to sign a release form. A guardian or parent must sign the form, if the skater is under 18. Individuals who would like more information can call the City of Hagerstown's Department of Parks and Recreation at 301-739-8577 ext. 169.
CVB Member - Segway of Hagerstown LLC Named Areas First Segway HT® Sales and Service Dealer
The Segway® HT is the first self-balancing, electric-powered transportation device. It requires no special skills (it automatically takes care of balancing-on-two-wheels), and virtually anyone can use one. It's compact, yet powerful and easily rechargeable from any wall outlet. The Segway HT is changing the way people think about transportation. With dimensions no larger than the average adult body and the ability to emulate human balance, the Segway HT uses the same space as a pedestrian, and can go wherever a person can walk. The Segway HT allows people at home and at work to go farther, move more quickly, and increase the amount they can carry anywhere they currently walk. Segway i180 series machines have a top speed of 12.5 mph, the ability to turn 360º in place and, when using the new state-of-the-art Saphion" lithium-ion batteries, have a range of up to 24 miles on a single charge. Segways produce no emissions, can be used indoors and outdoors, and get the dollar equivalent of 450 miles to the gallon. In addition to fun, smart personal transportation, the Segway HT is a highly adaptable productivity tool for companies and government. A small cross section of current Segways users include the City of Seattle, the Chicago Police Department, the US Postal Service, Washington Hospital Center, Duke University, Crown Equipment Corp. and Washington Area Metro Transit Authority. For additional information or to schedule a demonstration, call Segway of Hagerstown at 301-766-0488 (Mon-Fri, 10 am to 6 pm).
Western Maryland Rail Trail Expands
The entire paved Rail Trail - used for biking, hiking and walking - runs for more than 22 miles along the C&O Canal and Potomac River from Big Pool through Hancock to Pearre Station. Phase 3 cost $796,000 and had been in the works for about two years. Hancocks Chamber of Commerce is currently working with local officials to find funding for a fourth phase, which would extend the trail 10 miles to Little Orleans, Md. The Rail Trail opened in 1998 with a 10-mile segment running from Big Pool to Hancock. The second phase, 10.3 miles, was completed in 2002 and runs from Hancock to the southern slope of Tonoloway Ridge. The Department of Natural Resources manages the trail.
Information About Antietam Dead Posted On Western Maryland Library Web Site
Today there are few
copies of the book in existence, which is why it has been made available
online. Go to http://www.whilbr.org/antietamNationalCemetery/index.aspx. Robert McCauley Historical Lecture Series
Summer Music Series Brings Lunchtime Entertainment to Hagerstowns City Square
Each week offers a different band and a different style including steel drum bands, jazz, big band sounds, bluegrass, country, pop and folk, best-of-Broadway, strings, patriotic Americana, classic rock and more. The free Thursday lunchtime performances last for two hours from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Hagerstown Suns Plan Special Promotions for 25th Anniversary Season
Other promotional features include the following Suns daily promotions:
The Hagerstown Suns, of the South Atlantic League, are the new Class A affiliate of the New York Mets. The Suns playing season is currently underway and runs through September 5th. Ticket packages and sponsorships are available by calling 301-791-6266. The Suns are owned by Los Angeles based Mandalay Baseball Properties.
Hagerstown Railroad Heritage Days Celebrated
Model train displays were laid out on both floors of the Roundhouse building. The first floor 12-foot-by-14-foot display provided the opportunity for visitors to operate the switches activating four train lines and a trolley. In the same room, children circled two small tracks on tot-sized, riding trains. The second floor featured several additional large operational model train layouts of both HO and O scale. The unique part of the weekend was the chance to explore the real thing -- railroad equipment stationed in the rail yard. Visitors got to climb aboard the dark green Hagerstown and Frederick trolley No. 168 with its classy red and cream trim. Western Maryland's No. 132, a massive Baldwin diesel locomotive made in 1945 was also there. The smaller "40 and 8" World War I-era locomotive, so-called because it pulled boxcars that held 40 men or 8 horses, was on display courtesy of the Morris Frock Post of the American Legion. Railroad historian Dwight Jones was on hand to sign his books on the Western Maryland Railway, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, and Maryland cabooses. He also demonstrated how the names and numbers of cabooses were stenciled on the side using Western Maryland's caboose No. 1863 as a model. Railroad safety programs featured the "Operation Lifesaver" caboose and fire and rescue personnel staged a mock rescue. A variety of other vehicles were on display, from military equipment to antique fire trucks.
Portions of History Channels "Battlefield Detectives" Filmed in Washington County A black powder trained Artillery Crew from South Mountain State Park, under strict Maryland Park Service black powder safety guidelines, fired the park's 12-pound Napoleon Cannon for a History Channel film production crew on April 18. Several cannon shells were fired during the day at the Fort Frederick State Park Range. Shells pulverized through the thick wooden targets, and penetrated more than six feet into the firing range's dirt berm.
Each "Battlefield Detective" episode uses scientific and technological lines of enquiry to forensically analyze a particular battle. The British TV production crew, working on behalf of the History Channel, came to Fort Frederick especially to film the cannon ballistics episode. The filming was under ideal sunny conditions and the TV crew had great praise for the assistance provided by Civil War Medical Museum Director George Wunderlich, and the Maryland State Park Service cannon crew, led by South Mountain Battlefield's Al Preston. The State Park Service cannon crew was in authentic uniforms, and performed with military precision.
CVB Welcomed Gateway Gettysburg's film production "Fields of Freedom"
Posing on the movie set are Greystone Television and Film's top management team, and the CVB's Tom Riford. Pictured left to right - Shinaan Krakowski, Greystone's Chief Operating Officer; Seth Isler, Fields of Freedom producer; Craig Haffner, Greystone's Chief Executive Officer; Frederick Brookwell, Greystone's Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Counsel; and Tom Riford, President and CEO of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Fields Of Freedom, a $3.5-million film project has completed filming outside of Hagerstown, MD . The project is being financed by the Monahan Group as part of the Gateway Gettysburg project. Emmy Award-winning studio Greystone Television & Films, of Hollywood, California, is producing the destination feature, directed by filmmaker David deVries from his original screenplay. The film will be shown on a new three-and-one-half stories tall, 60-feet wide screen, state-of-the-art digital movie theatre in Gettysburg. The movie will focus on the military aspects of the battle, and will be the first of several films to be produced by Greystone for exclusive exhibition at the complex, according to Monahan. The CVB worked to bring the production to Washington County, which positively impacted the local economy. Fields of Freedom provides a unique distinction to the ambitious Gateway Gettysburg project, which broke ground in January 2004 and is the largest business development to occur in Adams County, Pennsylvania, home of the historic Gettysburg National Military Park. At 100 acres, the $250 million multi-facility project will be of major economic importance to Gettysburg and South Central Pennsylvania, totally redefining accommodations accessible to its 1.9 million yearly influx of tourists. Gateway Gettysburg will also impact the 22 million visitors a year to the Washington, DC-Baltimore metro region and be a major attraction to trade associations, government and corporate business. Upon completion, Gateway Gettysburg will include four hotels; a business conference center with an array of facilities that will include a ball room accommodating 1500 guests; an eight-movie theatre complex for first run features; as well as two state of the art large format digital theatres, food and beverage facilities; historic retail facilities which will include site appropriate books and DVDs, antiques, art, artifacts, sculpture and local and regional visitor information and reservation services. The first hotel, a Marriott Courtyard, and the theatres, managed by RC Theatres, will open in November 2005, followed by a Wyndham Hotel Conference in the summer of 2006.
Washington County Rural Heritage Museum Celebrates Its 5th Season
The annual old-fashioned potato planting, featuring horse-drawn equipment, was April 16. The grown spuds will be harvested and used for making homemade chips at the Annual Spudfest on August 27. The Century Farm Exhibit opened on April 30 at the museum. Century Farms are recognized by the state when they show evidence of being continuously worked by the same family for at least one hundred years. A reception to honor those eight families was held on May 15, with refreshments and stories about life on the farm. On May 1, the CVB joined with the museum to sponsor Rural Heritage Day at the Hagerstown Suns' Ballpark. Children visited with farm animals provided by local 4-H members, and a cow milking contest took place at home plate. After the game was the first National Egg Toss Competition. Sauders Eggs, of Lititz, PA, provided the eggs for the first-ever event.
Pictorial History Book About Pen Mar Now Available
The book is a visual collection of photos, concert programs, advertisements and post cards relating to Pen Mar Park. The park was started in 1877 by Col. John Hood, the president of Western Maryland Railroad. His vision came from the incredible view he had from High Rock a view that, with binoculars, included the town clock in Chambersburg, 24 miles away. Blue Ridge Summit was already a resort town for wealthy industrialists when the summertime amusement park began. Weekend visitors came by train from Baltimore, Philadelphia and other east coast cities, and local residents arrived by trolley. The park had a Ferris wheel, a large merry-go-round, a roller coaster and a host of other afternoon amusements. The park had been dismantled after closing in 1942. It became a Washington County Park in 1977, and thousands of visitors annually enjoy Sunday concerts. A museum is at the park, which is open from May through October. The Pen Mar book is available at the downtown Visitors Center, and also at Borders, Books and Things, and Waldenbooks.
Antietam's Maryland Monument Being Repaired
The Maryland Monument, constructed in 1889, had been one of the most popular attractions at the battlefield until it was closed for safety reasons. Prior to being closed, people could walk into the middle of the monument, under the dome and statue, and read informational bronze plaques inside of it. It is the only monument on the field dedicated to both North and South four Union Maryland regiments and two Confederate Maryland regiments.
Annual 18th Century Market Fair Held At Fort Frederick April 21-24 The Maryland Park Service and the Friends of Fort Frederick State Park hosted the 11th Annual 18th Century Market Fair at Fort Frederick State Park April 21-24. Hundreds of visitors to Fort Frederick State Park enjoyed more than 150 talented artisans, craftspeople and vendors selling reproductions of 18th-century items, including furniture, clothing, guns, powder horns and hunting bags. Most of the goods for sale were handmade by the vendors themselves, and many of those individuals demonstrated their crafts.
Historians say that Fort Frederick is the only remaining original French and Indian War stone fort in the United States.
Women's Motorcycle Club Holds 65th Anniversary Convention in Hagerstown Motor Maids, North America's oldest women's motorcycle riding club, rolled into Hagerstown on July 4, 2005, for its 65th Anniversary Convention. More than 225 attendees, consisting of Motor Maids and their spouses, stayed at the Clarion Hotel & Convention Center for the three-day gathering. Though much of the
convention involved business meetings at the hotel, the Motor Maids had
several opportunities to get out and enjoy Washington County during their
stay. Soon after their arrival on July 4th, they attended the patriotic
fireworks display at Fairgrounds Park. The convention schedule allowed
for them to have some free time for sightseeing, at which time they visited
Fort Frederick State Park and Antietam National Battlefield, as well as
the Harley Davidson dealership in Williamsport. The Motor Maids have a Convention each July in a different part of the country. This year's convention was awarded to Hagerstown over a community in New Mexico. It has previously been held in Staunton, Virginia, and York, Pennsylvania, but this was the Motor Maids' first stay in Hagerstown. Members of the Motor Maids may only attend convention on a motorcycle. It is a formal group, founded in 1940, and many of the women that joined were motorcycle couriers in World War II. The Motor Maids have "districts" that meet throughout the United States and Canada. More than fifty events are held annually each year. The founding premise of the Motor Maids was to unite women motorcyclists in promoting motorcycle safety and interest. The original requirement for membership still stands strong today: women who legally own and operate their own motorcycle or one belonging to a family member.
National Pygmy Goat Association Holds National Convention In Hagerstown, MD The National Pygmy Goat Association held its national convention from June 16-21 at the Washington County Agricultural Center. The convention's host hotel was the Four Points by Sheraton Inn - Hagerstown. More than 200 attendees and hundreds of goats participated in this year's national convention. The theme of this year's annual event was "Pygmies On Parade." Convention attendees participated in training sessions, the organization's board meetings, and other administrative business. Ag Center events included the naming of the National Champion pygmy goats (in the doe, buck, and wether categories) and other judged contests. More than 83,000 pygmy goats are registered in the National Pygmy Goat Association. Members of the association are located in all fifty states. Goats from across the United States were entered in the various competitions. Some goats were flown in from California farms, while other goats entered the competition from states such as Louisiana and Kentucky.
Lutheran Convention Held in Hagerstown About 600 Lutherans from the Delaware-Maryland Synod of Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) congregations gathered in Hagerstown for their annual convention June 9-11. The Clarion Conference Center at Antietam Creek hosted the three-day convention that included business sessions, speeches, worship, learning and fellowship. The Delaware-Maryland Synod is just one of 65 geographic groupings of the ELCA, a large, mainline Protestant denomination of about 5-million members from the United States and the Caribbean. Locally, the synod consists of about 92,000 Lutherans in 186 congregations in the two-state area. Some 21 of those congregations are located in Washington County, Md., and many of the event's organizers and leaders were from the area. The theme of the event, called the Delaware-Maryland Synod Assembly, was "Marked with the Cross of Christ Forever, We Are Gathered." It provided an emphasis on the people of God coming together in worship as the ELCA debuts a series of new materials called "Renewing Worship." The assembly's keynote speaker, Mr. Wayne Wold, was a member of the editorial committees for both the "Renewing Worship Songbook" and the new ELCA hymnal and has made presentations about the Renewing Worship materials in five states. A composer, organist, author and teacher, he is currently assistant professor of music, college organist, and chair of the music department at Hood College, Frederick, Md.; and instructor of composition at Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, W.Va.
Statewide Aviation Convention Held in Hagerstown More than 100 aviation experts and airport managers from private and public sectors gathered in Hagerstown during June 21-23, 2005, as the city hosted its first annual convention of the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA) and the Maryland Airport Managers Association (MAMA). It was also the first time the convention was held as a three day event. The convention allowed for aviation-related education and discussion of ideas, concepts and issues regarding the operation of airports, economic viability, and environmental stewardship. It included educational sessions, exhibits, and networking opportunities as well as a tour of the construction site at the Hagerstown Regional Airport. The Hagerstown Airport's current runway lengthening project is the largest civil engineering project to occur in Washington County in decades, and is expected to be completed in 2007. The convention concluded with its annual awards banquet featuring guest speaker and renowned aviation-comedian Ralph Hood who writes for Airport Business Magazine and other publications. The MAA fosters the vitality of aviation statewide and promotes safe and efficient operations, economic viability and environmental stewardship. Responsible for the operation of Baltimore/Washington International and Martin State airports, the MAA provides friendly, convenient facilities and customer services and develops enhanced domestic and international passenger and cargo opportunities through intermodalism and state-of-the-art technology. The purpose of the MAMA is to provide a medium for the exchange of ideas related to airport management, to encourage legislation advantageous to airports, and to work with the MAA, as well as other aviation organizations, to address and resolve airport issues. In 1999, the Association was incorporated as a non-profit organization.
Sons of the American Legion Holds Annual Convention In Hagerstown The American Legion Department of Maryland held its annual state-wide Sons of the American Legion Convention in Hagerstown, June 24 - 26, 2005. The convention's host hotel was the Four Points by Sheraton Inn. Approximately 300 people attended this year's convention and all Maryland counties were represented. Business sessions and a variety of social events filled the agenda. Awards were presented for the past year's events and a variety of special guest speakers were on hand for the convention. Convention attendees enjoyed many things Washington County has to offer in terms of recreational and social activities -- such as bowling, golf, shopping, touring historic sites, and more. The Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau worked to secure Hagerstown as the selection for this year's convention because the area is a great fit for hosting veterans groups, military reunions, and state-wide conventions. The Sons of the American Legion are the descendants of veterans of the Great Wars. Members are made up of boys and men of all ages who associate together for the purpose of preserving American traditions and values, improving the quality of life of children, caring for veterans and their families, and promoting and teaching the fundamentals and importance of good membership. The American Legion Department of Maryland was chartered in 1919 as a patriotic, mutual-help, wartime veterans' organization. This community-service organization has nearly 81-thousand members, with over three million members nationally. The American Legion is the largest veterans group in the United States. Eligibility of membership is determined by honorable, federal active duty with the United States Armed forces.
Let Us Promote Specials For You! Want to get the word out about special offers and packages? Let us know about it, and we'll add your business to our web site's pages promoting savings and specials! Contact Jolene today at jolenet@marylandmemories.com
Jellystone Park stipulated that reservations would be on a first-come, first-serve basis. All RV sites and tent sites were free of charge, and cabin rentals were discounted 50-percent. The campground was about 90 percent full for the appreciation event. More than half of those reserving space said they had never been to Washington County before. The appreciation event began last year for educators from across Maryland, and it was very successful. The Vitkuns plan to continue it next year, honoring another group of public servants. Ron Vitkun said he is leaning toward honoring firefighters. Hosting a weekend for health-care workers and nonprofit agency employees also has been discussed.
Calendar of Events Visit the CVB's online Calendar or Events for a complete list of events being held in Washington County. If you would like to receive a supply of the brochure-version, contact the Visitor Center at 301-791-3246. Click Here For the Calendar.
Take a Step Back Into History at Antietam This Summer
One of the most popular annual special event weekends at Antietam is the Technology of War weekend. The Civil War was fought with weapons that were ahead of the tactics the soldiers used in battle. Colonel Vince Armstrong will display his gun collection to show the rapid change in firearms technology before and during the Civil War. Throughout the day historians will present a program entitled "Why Did They Fight That Way?" followed by a weapons and tactics demonstration performed by Berdan's Sharp Shooters and the 6th New Hampshire Infantry. For a complete list of program dates and times, see the park website at www.nps.gov/anti.
Come See the Wild West at Antietam Recreation
Pen Mar Summer Concert Schedule Announced The Summer concert
schedule at Pen Mar Park has been announced. A different band performs
in the big band style from 2-5 p.m. Sundays, in seasonable weather, in
the pavilion at Pen Mar Park. All concerts are free. This summer's schedule is:
Upcoming Community Festivals
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The Board of County Commissioners congratulated
the CVB on its tourism efforts, and recognized Washington County Tourism
Week the week of May 7-15, 2005. CVB President Tom Riford accepted a proclamation
from Commissioner Bill Wivell designating the week as Tourism Week in
Washington County, in concert with Maryland and National Tourism Week.
Washington County, Maryland, is one
of 410 counties represented by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC)
which has helped local communities build roads and other infrastructure,
and provide high-speed access to the Internet. Recently, the ARC has turned
its attention to another economic development tool -- tourism -- by partnering
with the National Geographic Society. Together the two have developed
a "geotourism" map promoting an eclectic mix of more than 350
attractions reflecting the diversity of the 13-state Appalachian region.
The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack
is being distributed free of charge at local visitor and welcome centers,
courtesy of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau,
and The Gruber Almanack Company headquartered in Hagerstown.
Hagerstown is still pursuing
a convention center, but this time officials are hoping to link a scaled
down version and exhibit hall with a refurbished or new minor league baseball
stadium. The area includes about 150 acres of underutilized properties
between U.S. 40 (the Dual Highway) and the baseball stadium. CVB President
Tom Riford says there is synergy between a convention center and stadium,
as Baltimore has found out, although it is a much larger city than Hagerstown.
He cites a book on minor league baseball and local economies, in which
author Arthur Johnson said some localities have prospered when the stadium
was part of a larger project. 
Yogi Bears Jellystone Park
Camp-Resort welcomed Captain Roy Taylor and a WBAL-TVcamera crew on Monday,
June 27, 2005. The crew filmed a segment of the Discover Maryland series
that will air on the station three times and will be available on the
WBAL website.
Maryland Life magazine, the new statewide publication
for Maryland from Great State Publishing, LLC, recently hosted the latest
in a series of statewide socials in Washington County. The social, designed
to familiarize readers and advertisers with the new magazine was held
June 25, 2005, at the historic Rockland residence near Hagerstown. The
event gave Washington County residents a chance to meet the Maryland Life
staff and regional advisory board members, and provide input on issues
of content and style.
Discovery Station opened its doors
on April 23, 2005 in 17,000 square feet of leased space in the former
Nicodemus Bank building at 101 W. Washington St. The grand opening culminated
13 years of planning since the idea surfaced in 1992. Most of Discovery
Stations exhibits are on loan from the Maryland Science Center because
the science center has more exhibits that it can display at one time.
Exhibits will also have a local theme. The Hagerstown Aviation Museum,
the Hagerstown Railroad Museum, and the Washington County Historical Society
have exhibit space at the station.
The Pry House Field Hospital Museum opened its
doors at Antietam Battlefield on April 28, 2005 with a grand opening event.
The Pry House now holds exhibits and displays, and an information center
and gift shop. The historic barn on the property will provide conference
space for groups too large for the National Museum of Civil War Medicine
in downtown Frederick, about 20 miles east of Antietam.
Washington County is home to many museums, all
which celebrate the historical heritage of Washington County. Fifteen
of them participated with special events and exhibits in the second annual
Museum Ramble May 7-8, 2005. This years participating museums included:
The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Fort Frederick State Park,
the Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum, the Washington County Rural Heritage
Museum, the Pry House Field Hospital Museum, and the Miller House among
others.
The Washington County Museum
of Fine Arts presents The Moran Family of Painters, on view through August
28, 2005. An exhibition of the works of Edward, Leon, Thomas, Mary and
Peter - The Morans - a nineteenth century family of painter-etchers -
will be on view. Twenty-three of the works are on loan from the Worth
B. Stottlemyer Collection of Juniata College Museum of Art and the remainder
is from the Museum's Permanent Collection, Yellowstone National Park,
other museums, galleries and private collectors.
The City of Hagerstown
has proudly unveiled its new "Hagerstown Railroad Museum at City
Park" which features hundreds of railroad artifacts, many used by
the Western Maryland Railroad Company. The new facility celebrated its
grand opening on May 21, 2005.
The City of Hagerstown's
Skate Park opened for the 2005 season on Saturday, April 30, 2005. The
Skate Park, which is located in the Fairgrounds Park lower grandstand
area, is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and
Wednesdays and Fridays 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Participants should use
the North Cannon Avenue entrance and are asked to park at the Upper Lot
of Fairgrounds Park using the stairs between the Grandstands and PAL building.
Segway of Hagerstown is proud to announce
that it has been named the areas first Segway® HT Human Transporter
Sales and Service Dealer. Owner Steve Colby says, "In addition to
sales and service, our dealership is looking into offering guided tours
on Segways in partnership with local nonprofits." Colby said that
the local company would provide sales and service to an area within a
50 mile radius of Hagerstown.
Phase 3 of the Western
Maryland Rail Trail opened on May 19, 2005, extending the trail another
2.1 miles. The new section runs from Tonoloway Ridge to Pearre Station,
a former railroad station west of Hancock. The extension project included
a parking lot at Pearre Station.
The Summer Music Series, sponsored
by the City of Hagerstown and the Washington County Arts Council, is well
underway. Just steps from the City Square, downtown workers and shoppers
have the opportunity to relax in the sunshine and hear a variety of regional
performers while enjoying lunch from any of the downtown restaurants.
The Hagerstown Suns 25th Anniversary
season, which began April 7, promises excitement at every home ballgame.
Highlighting this years promotional calendar are 14 fireworks shows and
a team record 22 premium giveaway nights, including 4 new bobblehead giveaways
featuring Uncle Sam (July 2nd), Willie Mays (July 17th), North High School
Hubs (Sept 3rd) and South High School Rebels (Sept 4th). The Suns 25th
Anniversary giveaway series (3 commemorative caps, silver anniversary
baseballs and collectors t-shirts) also accents this seasons promotional
calendar. On Labor Day the Suns will be distributing Municipal Stadium
replicas in honor of the historic ballparks 75th Anniversary
Hagerstown Celebrated Railroad
Heritage Days at the Roundhouse Museum June 11-12. It was the 15th year
for the event and the 15th anniversary of the museum. The event has grown
into a major attraction, attracting the young and young-at-heart, while
showing the importance of trains to Hagerstown.
A film production company that works
for the History Channel "Battlefield Detectives" has been working
with the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, MD, over
the past year on a number of projects involving ballistics. The TV production
crew recently worked on a project involving a naval battle during the
War of 1812. The TV episode will show on film what a cannon ball does
when it strikes wood. The simulation shows how the splintering of the
hull caused significant injuries to the ships' crews, and caused tremendous
damage to the wooden ships.
The
Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau welcomes Gateway
Gettysburg's film production: "Fields of Freedom."
To
celebrate the beginning of its 5th season, the Washington County Rural
Heritage Museum held a gala open house on the weekend of April 2-3. Visitors
sampled the museum's exhibits and an assortment of homemade cookies. In
addition to the permanent exhibits, nearly a hundred works of art by Washington
County school students were on display and judged.
A
new pictorial history book about Pen Mar is now available. Written by
Frank and Suanne Woodring, the book is a wonderful collection of memories
of the popular east coast summer resort that once rested in Franklin County
and Washington County. The authors are former Washington County teachers
who also publish the Maryland Cracker Barrel magazine. The Woodrings re-visited
the park by interviewing people who lived its heyday before World War
II. After being invited to a reunion of former park employees last summer
the idea for the Pen Mar history book was born.
Visitors
to Antietam National Battlefield are finding something they have not seen
on the grounds before the Maryland Monument without its domed top and
bronze statue. Repairs to the Maryland State Monument are currently underway.
The monument has been closed since 2003 because the iron frame inside
the dome is rotting in many areas, which has also caused visible damage
to parts of its dome. Efforts to fund the project began immediately, though
federal grant money, which supplemented private donations and state grants,
was not awarded for the $300,000 project until last year.
The
Market Fair highlighted what the fort would have been like between 1730
and 1790. To give this event the flair of an 18th-century fair, there
were magic shows, puppet shows, music and balancing acts that were popular
diversions of the time. An encampment of 18th-century reenactors conducted
live firing demonstrations of period weapons as well as demonstrations
of 18th-century life in the fort amidst a 1730-90 encampment. Interpreters
presented living history programs within the historic fort walls.
Members Spotlight
Nearly
600 policemen and law enforcement workers from across the state of Maryland
enjoyed a two-day stay at Washington County's Yogi Bear Jellystone Resort
the weekend of April 16-17. Campground owners Ron and Vicki Vitkun decided
that because of the public service and hard work that law enforcement
workers do, they deserved something nice in return.
Antietam
Recreation is back on their summer schedule with daily Wild West shows
at 11:00 a.m. New this year, the Cowboy Chuckwagon Dinner Show is open
to the public every Friday and Saturday night in June, July, August. Don't
miss out on this exciting adventure in the Old West! The dinner includes
"vittles that are the finest on this side of the Mississippi".
Shows feature ropin' ridin', whip crackin', and pistol spinnin' Guiness
Record holder Andy Rotz. For more info, contact Mary Rotz at 301-797-3733.