Out and About Loving Annapolis
Each spring since 1998 Annapolis has burst into bloom with beautiful hanging flower baskets and overflowing flower pots. This urban beautification project was the brainchild of local and downtown business owners including Don Riddle of Homestead Gardens and Steve Samaras of Zachary Jewelers. Over the years it has expanded to include Maryland Ave, West Street and over into Eastport along the Spa Creek Bridge. These beautiful hanging baskets have made Annapolis a role model for other cities and municipalities across the nation. And it's safe to say that these flowers have had a huge part in the City of Annapolis being selected by Forbes Travel Magazine as one of America's prettiest towns for 2 years in a row.
But did you know that every night from May to October between the hours of 3am and 6am a two person team waters, weeds and cares for these baskets and pots. And with over 200 hanging baskets and oversized flower pots adorning our City streets and Spa Bridge thats a lot of watering and weeding. Over the years funding for the Bloomin Annapolis Flower Program has been a private- public joint venture between the City of Annapolis, its businesses and the community. But alas like many programs during the last few years the economy has forced many contributors to scale down their yearly donations
This year to help raise donations for the care and upkeep of these beautiful baskets and pots the First Annual Chesapeake Chili Cook Off will be held at Homestead Gardens ( Corner of Rt. 214 and Birdsville Rd in Davidsonville) during their 2nd Annual Tomato Festival on August 28th 2010 from noon to 6pm. The proceeds from the Chili Cook Off will go to the Annapolis Flower Program to help pay for the hanging flower baskets and pots in downtown Annapolis we have all come to love and cherish each spring and summer. 
But wait....there is more. The 2nd Annual Salsa Contest and a Pizza Eating Contest featuring Ledo Pizza of Edgewater will be taking place as well. And...there will be tomato tastings, cooking demonstrations, kids activities, and local vendors too. Plus live music performed by the Andy Poxon Band. I had the pleasure of hearing this 16 year old Crofton native play at 'Eastport A Rockin' and he is sensational.
This fun filled family event will certainly be the place to be. I know I will.
Tickets:
$10 each
Family of 4: $25
Children under 10 free
Tickets may be purchased at Homestead Gardens or call 410.798.5000 for more information.
So mark your calendar for August 28th and plan to attend a fun filled day. To find out more about the hanging baskets and pots and to make a donation visit Bloomin Annapolis. For more information on the festivities visit Homestead Gardens.
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