By Molly Winans “What Do Cool People Do! Why Frostbite Racing Is Cool. It’s 34 degrees outside. The water temperature measures in the upper 30s. It might get gusty out. It might snow. What would you rather do: lounge on the couch or go sailing? Hundreds of sailors on the Chesapeake Bay choose the latter. Every winter, we like to reach out to a few of them to learn their reasoning, their expert winter gear tips, and suggestions for curious would-be winter sailors. What’s the appeal? Warren Richter races his J/22 Committed with his partner in racing and wife, Tracey. Richter says, “I enjoy frostbite to keep our skills sharp during the so called ‘off-season.’ It’s great to get out, get some sunshine, and have fun racing. Makes dusting off the rust in the springtime much easier and also allows for racing that is less boat-handling-intensive. It is a great time to train new crew and practice.” Tracy adds, “We’re not sure what we’d do with our time if we didn’t have a reason to be on the water. Also racing with just a main and jib as required by frostbites gives us an opportunity to work on our fleet management without having to worry so much about boat handling. Also, there is usually significantly more wind than during the rest of the year, so we get to practice in different conditions.’ The Committed frostbite team includes Mary Howser, Koralina and James McKenna, Amanda Gates, and Bryan Stout. Richter notes, “They are all fantastic sailors. We appreciate everything they do to come racing with us.” Gavin O’Hare, who races ILCA class dinghies (formerly Laser) out of Severn Sailing Association on Sundays, says, “Because the winter is cold, it puts a damper on doing most things outside. Dinghy frostbiting is different….
Courtesy Visit St. Mary’s From unique local events that capture the spirit of the season to charming boutiques and markets offering one-of-a-kind gifts, there is something for everyone to enjoy in St. Mary’s County this holiday season. As the holiday season approaches, our region transforms into a vibrant hub of festivities, holiday markets and signature events. So, bundle up, grab your loved ones, and embark on a holiday adventure in St. Mary’s County that you’ll cherish for years to come. Here is our guide to the special events, markets and festivals that make St. Mary’s County your holiday happy place. Special Events There are countless events that will brighten your holidays with all the small-town charm you expect in St. Mary’s County. Here is just a taste of events around the county, for a full list visit the Events Calendar. On Dec 6, Historic St. Mary’s city (HSMC) will host its Frost Fair! Between 1607 and 1814, the river Thames would freeze for months at a time. Beginning in 1607, there were seven total Frost Fairs held over the years when the Thames froze, allowing vendors to set up booths on the ice. HSMC is modernizing this idea with a holiday village featuring artisans, warm beverages, live music, and holiday light displays. Enjoy a day filled with family fun, live entertainment, and holiday cheer. From Dec 6-7, the Lexington Park Business Association will host its annual Holly Days Extravaganza. On Dec 6, come for a Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. Then, on Dec 7 from 1-4 p.m., the Extravaganza will feature pictures with Santa, arts and crafts for all ages, a vendor shopping experience, and display featuring the various holidays celebrated this time of year. All events take place in and around the Lexington Park Library. On Dec 7,…
By Makayla Cropper November in Annapolis is filled with creativity, culture, and coastal holiday spirit. From vineyard tastings in Davidsonville to lantern-lit tours in historic Downtown, every corner of Anne Arundel County has something happening this month. November in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County is that perfect blend of cozy, coastal charm and early holiday excitement. Here’s your guide to things to do in Annapolis this November, sprinkled with holiday magic toward the end. Collectors Tour & Tasting at The Vineyards at Dodon November 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29, 30 The Vineyards at Dodon, Davidsonville Enjoy an immersive vineyard experience with a guided tour through the cellar and barrel room. End the visit with a seated tasting of Dodon’s limited-edition wines paired with local cheeses and charcuterie all finished with their signature fortified wine, Salute the Truth. CP Presents Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors November 1–15 College Parkway Playhouse, Anne Arundel County Laugh your way through the Transylvanian darkness with this witty, horror-comedy twist on the classic vampire tale. Evening and matinee shows available. Painting with Nature: Art Workshop November 2 Davidsonville Family Recreation Center, Davidsonville Hosted by the Muddy Creek Artist Guild, this hands-on art workshop invites you to create nature-inspired stamps and paint with acrylics. No art experience required, just creativity! First Sunday Arts Festival November 2 West Street & Calvert Street, Downtown Annapolis Explore 125+ vendors featuring fine art, jewelry, photography, pottery, and more in the heart of the Annapolis Arts District. Local food, live music, and good vibes included. Mr. Paca’s Garden Storytime: “Federico and the Wolf” November 4 William Paca House & Garden, Annapolis Perfect for families! Kids ages 3–7 can enjoy story time, crafts, and garden adventures in this charming Colonial garden tucked into the Historic District. Fall into the Holidays Sip n Shop with Thyme + Stain November 6 Thyme…
By Ryan Gullang The Annapolis Sailboat Show, October 9th‑12th, is charting a bold course for 2025 with a lineup that’s bigger, more dynamic, and more engaging than ever. From world premieres and a record‑setting multihull fleet to fresh programs and a reimagined layout, this year’s show offers more boats, more action, and more reasons to dock in Annapolis. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy at America’s premier international sailing event. Refit My Ride Annapolis Boat Shows is partnering with Oakcliff Sailing to bring attendees a multi‑day hardware installation demonstration. In true “Pimp My Ride” fashion—but with far more fiberglass and fewer fuzzy dice—”Refit My Ride” will showcase the transformation of a well‑worn Farr 40 into a race‑ready showpiece, right in the middle of the Annapolis Sailboat Show. Led by Oakcliff Sailing’s team of rising stars and marine experts, this live, interactive demo will spotlight real‑world refits using products donated by Annapolis Boat Show exhibitors. Upgrades include everything from Harken hardware to a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet with social media coverage and on‑site presentations throughout the weekend. Blue, one of Oakcliff’s hardworking training boats, has sailed thousands of offshore miles with dozens of future captains and marine pros aboard. Its revitalization represents not just a cosmetic makeover, but a commitment to education, marine careers, and the sustainability of existing fleets. Attendees can stop by throughout the show to see the project in action, meet the team, and collect tips for refitting their own ride. Whether you’re a cruiser, racer, or serial DIY‑er, this activation promises hands‑on inspiration—and a few good laughs along the way. Boat Show Brew The Annapolis Boat Shows are proud to welcome Boat Show Brew as the official beer of both the 2025 Annapolis Powerboat Show and the 2025 Annapolis Sailboat Show. Brewed in collaboration with local favorite Pherm Brewing Company,…
By Lani Gering As an intro to this column, I want to fork over that I utilized the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence aka AI in pulling this information together. I ran into a time crunch at deadline and our usual band of “From the Bay” contributors were unavailable this month. While I personally am very wary of the consequences of using AI, having spent a lot of time in the Bay area over the last 32 years, I know the following info to be true and have merit. September is an excellent month for the Chesapeake Bay, with pleasant temperatures, decreasing crowds, and diverse fishing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating, kayaking, and fishing for species such as striped bass, bluefish, and red drum. The cooler weather is ideal for wine tasting at the region’s many vineyards, and you can also explore nature and enjoy waterfront accommodations for a relaxing late-summer experience. Activities & Vibe Boating and Kayaking: September offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a perfect month for boating and kayaking on the Bay and its rivers. Wine Tasting: The Chesapeake Bay Region boasts numerous vineyards, many on the Eastern Shore, making it a great time to explore and enjoy local wines. Scenic Beauty: Enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets, explore diverse wildlife, and experience the natural beauty of the Bay and its surrounding marshes and creeks. Relaxation: With the summer crowds thinning out, September is a great time to find serene waterfront accommodations and a more relaxed pace. Fishing Targeted Species: Anglers can target a variety of fish, with popular choices including striped bass (rockfish), bluefish, mackerel, and red drum. Fishing Locations: Look for breaking fish in channel edges, near bird activity, and in tributaries like the Rappahannock and Piankatank rivers. Effective Techniques: Anglers are successful with trolled spoons…
Pictured above: TPSL with Jimmy Buffet’s Last Mango By John Potvin The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, an iconic maritime landmark that has guided mariners and recreational boaters to safety for more than a century, celebrates its 150th Anniversary in 2025. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this last surviving screwpile lighthouse, still active as an aide to navigation and in its original location in North America, has played a vital role in the history of Annapolis and stands as a symbol of pride for the State of Maryland. The Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse is a local and national treasure that is inextricably entwined with the history of the Chesapeake Bay, the City of Annapolis, and Maryland. The 150th Anniversary not only celebrates its storied past, it also served as a wake-up call to raise the necessary funds to ensure its legacy is maintained for future generations. The threats to the lighthouse’s future came into sharp focus last year when Hurricane Debby barreled through taking with it the entire landing dock and its beloved static mascot Drew. Drew and the dock recovered but the threats are real. An assessment of future sea levels indicates the lighthouse faces further rising seas which will affect the structural steel underneath by inundating it with brackish bay water and putting the base of the cottage in peril with elevated wave action. A sea level study conducted by EA Engineering in 2024 to assess the future needs of the lighthouse estimates that by 2100 sea levels will rise by approximately 6 feet, requiring radical interventions to protect this vital piece of maritime history. We are seeking funds to retain engineers who can determine the proper course of action to elevate the lighthouse to ensure that this historic structure will remain for our grandchildren and great grandchildren…
By Julia Fluke 🦀 We hope you’re feeling crabby! 🦀 The time-honored summer tradition of feasting on Maryland blue crabs comes alive in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, with a plethora of fantastic crab houses scattered along the coast of the Chesapeake Bay. From small family-owned restaurants to bustling establishments, these ten crab houses guarantee the quintessential Maryland tradition of indulging in fresh blue crabs under the warmth of the summer sun. Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs In the heart of City Dock, Buddy’s Crabs & Ribs is a family-owned and operated restaurant serving a gigantic menu starring their famous steamed blue crabs. Sit inside their air-conditioned dining room overlooking the Chesapeake Bay or embrace the summer weather by sitting outdoors. Cantler’s Riverside Inn Cantler’s Riverside Inn is situated along the shore of Mill Creek and has been serving fresh seafood for nearly four decades. Open for lunch and dinner, Cantler’s proudly serves Maryland blue crabs, crab cakes, crab imperial, clams, oysters, fish, scallops, shrimp, lobsters, and other delicious platters. Crabtowne USA Go from feasting on crabs to playing old-school arcade games all in one place! At Crabtowne USA, they pride themselves on providing excellent seafood, drinks, and arcade games such as Galaga, Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros, and more. Specializing in steamed crabs and shrimp, the seafood is steamed fresh for each customer. Mike’s Crab House Riva and Mike’s North Whichever Mike’s location you choose, you will be met with an impressive array of top-notch seafood and waterside views from the South River. Perfect for summertime crab cracking, outdoor seating is also available with live music on select dates. Pit Boys While Pit Boys is known for their huge portions of bbq and pit beef, the restaurant now serves Maryland blue crabs. Steamed to order or live, visitors can indulge in this Maryland tradition by dining in or…
By Jennifer Blake Annmarie Sculpture Garden & Arts Center (ASGAC) invites adults to unwind, create, and connect this summer! Located ASGAC is excited to announce a dynamic lineup of upcoming adult-focused events and workshops designed to inspire creativity, connection, and a little carefree fun. From casual evening socials to hands-on creative workshops, there’s something for every grown-up looking to relax and recharge in a beautiful, artistic setting. Annmarie After Hours: Exhibit Opening Celebration Friday, June 13 | 5:00–7:00 pm $5 per adult | FREE for AMG Members | Adults Only Join us in celebration of a new exhibit in the Main Gallery: Submerged: Sea Life and Aquatic Art. Meet the artists, grab a glass of wine, enjoy beautiful art and lively music and conversation! Food and Drink: DF 26 Mexican Food, Annmarie Cash Bar. Food Truck Friday Friday, June 13 | 5:00–7:00 pm Extended garden hours with food trucks on site. Perfect for a date night. Experience the glow of the sculpture garden as the sun sets, grab a bite to eat, make a picnic of it, or stroll our wooded paths. Also, fairy houses are still on display throughout the garden – see how many you can find! Adult Workshops & Learning Opportunities Hester’s Houseplant Prop & Swap Saturday, June 7 | 10:00 am–12:30 pm Bring your own houseplants or garden plants (or propagatable parts) to share for the plant swap. Participants are also encouraged to bring a decorative pot for the pot swap, and seeds for a seed swap! Learn how simple it is to propagate various houseplants – It’s a potluck of plants! Planned Giving Seminar with Wells Fargo Wednesday, June 18 | 6:30–8:30 pm Join us for an informational planned giving seminar presented by Ken Barkman & Debra Rankin of Wells Fargo. This is a free financial seminar hosted…
Pictured above: Dave Linthicum paddles along Cocktown Creek, a tributary of the Patuxent River, at Kings Landing Park in Calvert County, MD. Photo by Dave Harp By Jeremy Cox, Chesapeake Bay Journal It wasn’t until I got home that the full measure of what I had experienced came into focus. I was unstrapping the kayak from the top of my car when I noticed hues of brown, beige and gold standing out against its white hull. It was sand scoured up from the Patuxent River’s shoreline. More than likely, it had gotten slathered there when I ran the plastic vessel aground upon my return to the launch site. I wiped some off with my fingertips. And for a few moments, I had some deep thoughts about grit. This was more than a mess to be washed away with a garden hose. This was a metaphor for what happens to us when we travel, especially outdoors: We end up carrying back things we don’t expect. Sure, it can be sand. But it’s often something ineffable. The day took us — Bay Journal photographer Dave Harp, paddling enthusiast Dave Linthicum and I — to Kings Landing Park in Southern Maryland. The Calvert County Department of Parks & Recreation manages the 260-acre suburban getaway in partnership with the Calvert Nature Society. Our expedition took place on the last day of winter, but hints of spring were in the air. Temperatures had climbed from the 30s in the predawn hours to 70 degrees by the afternoon. Most of the deciduous trees were bereft of leaves, but buds on the red maples were flashing their trademark color. “It’s my favorite month of the year,” Linthicum said, gazing into the distance. “You can just see so far out into the woods.” There was certainly no lack of nature…
By Lani Gering In fact, according to the old adage “R Months Rule”, April is the last month we should consume our bivalve favorites until September rolls around. While this “rule” has some merit since oysters are at their best during the cooler months and warm weather has the potential to raise some food safety concerns with shell fish, modern day refrigeration and the advent of oyster farming/gardening assures us that they are available year-round. One of the reasons oysters are at their best during cooler months is they are spawning during the summer months and this can affect their taste and texture and make them less plump and flavorful. The key is to make sure you are purchasing oysters from outlets – including restaurants – that are known for adherence to maintaining quality specimens from known sources. Two local restaurants – Landini Brothers Fish Market (Rex Platinums from Hooper Island Oyster Company) and Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub (Back Creek Beauties from their Back Creek Oyster Company) carry oysters from their respective farms. The Old Town Crier has been a big supporter of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) since 1988 and continues to support their Oyster Restoration effort. We have published information regarding this effort in the past but thought it would be a good idea to let you know what YOU can do to participate in the effort. I contacted Kenny Fletcher, the CBF Director of Communications and Media to garner some specifics. The following information is directly from the CBF site: How Can You Help? The Chesapeake Bay Foundation recognizes that saving the Bay is uniquely tied to restoring the native oyster, Crassostrea virginica. Historically, Chesapeake oysters were the Bay’s most valuable fishery. Ecologically, native oysters are equally important: they filter algae, sediment, and other pollutants. Oyster reefs also…
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