Nov - Federal Hill Neighborhood Association

Federal
Hillsider
The Monthly Newsletter of the Federal Hill Neighborhood Association
November 2012
Support Our Advertisers, They
Support You!
Baltimore Grand Prix Funds
Given to FHNA
We wanted to expand on Ryan Hada’s statement from last month’s
Hillsider “The generosity of the area businesses that choose to
advertise in the Hillsider make it possible for FHNA to fund
community events.”
On October 18th several of our neighbors attended a meeting with
Race On Baltimore. At that meeting, they heard stories of how the
various neighborhood associations used the money from the 2011
BGP Neighborhood Impact Funds. Our neighbors Walt Saxon and
Kathy McCleskey, two of our grant recipients, joined FHNA Acting
President Eric Costello and fellow grant recipient, Bill Romani. At
that meeting the affected neighborhoods received checks from the
2012 Baltimore Grand Prix. Ours was $6,250. Baltimore Race On
CEO J.P. Grant III offered an additional $2,500 to each impacted
neighborhood, including ours, out of his own pocket
by Jeannie Malkiewicz, Editor
When you’re reading the Hillsider, please take the time to read the
ads and remember those advertisers when you are spending your
money. You see, although many of our advertisers have been loyal
supporters for many years, others may have just started. But the
main reason for them all to advertise in the Hillsider isn’t what you
might think. Yes, it does get their name and information out to our
residents, which hopefully, results in increased business – although
if that were there only goal, they have lots of other places to spend
their advertising dollar$. The main reason our advertisers continue
to support the Hillsider with their ads, is their commitment to our
residents and our community!
Without advertisers, the Hillsider would cease to exist along with
countless other projects FHNA supports like the upcoming Tree
Lighting with Federal Hill Main Street, clean and green projects that
you may have noticed springing up all around the Hill, and helping to
sponsor neighborhood events like the 4th of July parade.
And if you need any more reason to shop locally, don’t forget –
Saturday, November 24 is Small Business Saturday. By supporting
our area businesses, you are not only helping the owners grow their
business (many of whom are Federal Hill residents) but they, in turn,
will be able to offer more jobs locally, which will better all of our
communities.
Reminder: As announced at the Oct 16th FHNA General
Membership Mtg, there will be an election at the Nov
20th FHNA General Membership Mtg for the positions
of President and Vice President. The Board has named
Eric Costello as Acting President and Gayle McClure
as Acting Vice President. Mr. Costello is seeking the
position of President, while Ms. McClure is not seeking
the position of Vice President and is Acting until the
election. One nomination has been submitted, former
Treasurer Lamberto Camacho has submitted his
name for the position of Vice President. Additional
nominations are welcome and should be emailed to
[email protected] or mailed to FHNA, PO Box 27112,
Baltimore MD 21230. All nominations must be made by
two voting members of FHNA in good standing.
by Gayle McClure
Some of the great projects that were made possible by the 2011 BGP
Neighborhood Impact funds:
Bike racks for Federal Hill Park and Cross Street Market.
10 additional trash cans for the neighborhood.
Gators to water our trees.
Money to plant floors and clean up along a single block.
The weeding, mulching and general sprucing up of Robert
Baker Park.
● Stenciling of all of our street drains to remind us that what goes
down the drain goes to The Bay.
● Repairs and painting of the park benches at Federal Hill Park.
●
●
●
●
●
It’s time to start thinking about projects for the spring!!!
November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Federal Hillsider - Page 2
INFORMATION PAGE
FHNA Committees
Consider Getting Involved
Federal Hill Neighborhood Association
Board of Directors
Officers
Acting President:
Eric Costello 410.528.1514
ActingVice President:Gayle McClure 410.230.9419
Treasurer: Gayle McClure 410.230.9419
Secretary: Bob Merbler 443.629.0162
Board Members at Large
Board Member: Bob O’Donoghue 410.783.0174
Board Member: Ginny Gerhart 443.271.3218
Board Member: Jody Martin 410.332.0539
Board Member:
Jennifer Nelson 410.727.038
Board Member:
Mellisa Colimore 443.743.9290
Bulk Item Pick Up
You may place up to three items out for collection. One day per
month is set aside for this collection. All citizens have to do is call
311 and give the following information:
Your address
Your telephone #
What 3 items
Call 3 or more working days before your scheduled date. If you do
not know your day, please call 311.
You may also schedule a collection at 311 Online.
To Request City Services
Call 311 6am to 10pm
or Online 24 hours at
www.baltimore.customerservicerequest.org
Please contact any of the Board members listed nearby
and express your interest. You will be welcomed.
Beautification/Green:
Walt Saxon
Block Captains:
Kelly Sheehan
Business Affairs:
Jody Martin
Hillsider:Jeannie Malkiewicz
Gayle McClure
Bob O’Donoghue
Nicole Quinn
Liquor/Live Entertainment: Eric Costello
Membership:
Eric Costello
Bob Merbler
Parking: Eric Costello
Preservation:
John Thompson
Public Safety:
Melissa Colimore
Schools Liaison:
Jessica Damen
Social:Nicole Quinn
Paul Quinn
Technology:
Jennifer Nelson
Trees:Rich Polan
Debris, Bulk Trash, Recycling &
eCycling Drop-off Location:
Western Sanitation Yard
701 Reedbird Avenue, 410-396-3367,
Mon. – Sat., 9 am – 5 pm (Labor Day/Memorial Day)
& 9 am – 7 pm (Memorial Day/Labor Day)
For additional locations go to: baltimorecity.gov/Government/
AgenciesDepartments/PublicWorks/BureauofSolidWaste
Recycling and Trash Schedule:
Set out by 6 a.m.
Trash on Wednesday (in cans with tight-fitting lids)
Recycling on Friday
REMINDER!! Please put your recyclable materials in paper bags, cardboard boxes, City recycle bins or any container clearly
marked “recycle”; at the same location as your regular trash. DO NOT USE PLASTIC BAGS.
With single stream recycling, we send our materials to a processing facility which uses an automated system to sort and bale
recyclables.
Federal Hillsider
FederalHillBaltimore.org
November 2012 - Page 3
Federal Hill’s
Premier Jeweler
Since 1898
Your Engagement and
Wedding Band Headquarters
Appraisal • Custom Design
Restringing
Expert Repair of Fine Jewelry
Buying Gold & Diamonds
1114 Light St. Federal Hill
410-727-3232
Lic. No. 136
Sending a big “Thank You” for the amazing job
by the FHHA and FHBA for putting together a
great event for “Hill-o-ween”. Hundreds of kids
and parents joined in for treats and tricks (hot
dogs and hamburgers too!) Despite the weather
difficulties leftover from Hurricane Sandy,
everyone had a great time!
HILL STREET
IN HISTORIC OTTERBEIN
Next COP Walk
221 Hill Street
Baltimore, Md. 21230
Well designed, bright and airy
space ticks all the boxes on your
list. Park your cars in the 2 car
garage & walk to your favorite
restaurants and entertainment.
Well proportioned bedrooms with
en-suite baths. Sparkling kitchen
renovation with generous counter
& storage spaces. Dining/kitchen
area leads to private yard for
summer bbqs. Flexible lower level
with 1/2 bath for media, office or
guest room.
Thursday, November 29, 7 p.m.
Meet in front of Porter’s
Meet up with your neighbors after at
Porter’s for refreshments.
Offered for $399,900
JUST REDUCED!
Randee Askin and James Baldwin
26 Years of dedicated service to buyers and sellers
[email protected] [email protected]
office: 410.727.0606
office: 410.727.0606
cell: 410.615.5313
cell: 443.255.2502
Page 4 -
November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Federal Hillsider
Upcoming Events - compiled by Nicole Quinn
Ravens HOME Schedule:
Sun, Nov 11 vs Raiders at 1:00 PM
Sun, Dec 02 vs Pittsburgh at 4:25 PM
Nov 3, 10, 17: Historic Federal Hill Ghost Tour!! Take an approximate one hour guided tour through the ages in this historic
journey, where the spirits of the past commune with the explorers
of the present. Hear tales of murder, mystery and legend. Discover
the techniques and the science behind ghost hunting while walking the old cobble stones and modern paved streets of this wonderful neighborhood filled with taverns, shops and restaurants,
situated just 2 blocks from the Inner Harbor. Tours on Sat nights
6pm, 830pm at Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast, 801 South
Charles Street. For more info and Tickets: http://federalhillghosttour.ticketleap.com/
Nov 9: FEDERAL HILL CHURCH TO HOST PASTA DINNER
FUNDRAISER
Light Street Presbyterian Church, 809 Light Street, will host a
Pasta Dinner Fundraiser on Friday, November 9, from 5:00 to
8:00 p.m. Dinner will include pasta with choice of sauce, tossed
salad, bread, beverages, and dessert. Tickets: $8 for adults, $5 for
children (ages 3-12), “Dine-In” or “Carry-Out.” For more info.,
contact 410-539-0125 or [email protected]
Nov 15: Federal Hill is open late on 3rd Thursdays! Many shops
and galleries are open 6- 8 with specials & fun. NEW SHOP
AND DINE MAKES FEDERAL HILL THE PLACE TO BE
ON THIRD THURSDAYS EXCITING NEWS!!!!, Visit four 3rd
Thursday businesses and receive a Shop & Dine Card... good for
a 10% discount at Federal Hill participating restaurants. www.
shopfedhill.com
Nov. 15: 3rd Thursday - Wine & Cheese tasting @ Big Jim’s Deli
- cheese by Cheese Galore & More 5-7pm
Nov 21: Federal Hill Stitch ‘n Bitch – every 3rd Wednesday at
6:30 pm. – for location check out the Facebook group Federal
Hill Stitch ‘n Bitch or contact Gayle at mcclure21230@gmail.
com or 410-230-9419. A Stitch ‘n Bitch is a group of knitters,
crocheters (or any kind of stitching) who get together on a regular
basis to stitch and, well, you know. It is open to the public and free
of charge. All skill levels are welcome from complete beginner to
expert. You can work on individual projects or a group project.
Those with more experience pass on their knowledge to others.
Dec 4: 17th Annual Festive Flavors (a tasty tour of Federal Hill)
on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 6-10. Contact Federal Hill Main Street for
Tickets and Info.
Dec 1, 15: Salem Lutheran Church announces “Winter Wonderland”, an annual neighborhood favorite! The Christmas season
brings the annual tradition of Salem Lutheran Church’s celebration of Winter Wonderland. The dazzling array of trees, lights and
decorations are sure to put you in the Christmas spirit. Dinners,
children’s crafts, baked goods, basket raffles and a visit from the
Jolly Man himself! Friday 11/30 Spaghetti Dinner: 4 to 7 pm $10
adults, $5 children. Saturday 12/1 Open Grill and Soups: 12 to
3 pm, Prices Vary. Saturday 12/1 Hot Beef Dinner: 3 to 6 pm,
$12 adults, $5 children. Saturday 12/15 Lunch with Santa 12 to
2 pm, Prices vary. Hot Dogs, Chili, Grilled Cheese, Pizza. Visit
our website at salemsouthbaltimore.org or call church office, 410576-0487. Salem is located at 1530 Battery Avenue at E. Randall
across from Riverside Park. Free parking available with permit
obtainable at the door.
Federal Hillsider
FederalHillBaltimore.orgNovember 2012 - Page 5
Farewell but not
goodbye…
smiling or willing to talk with you and truly
listen to your concerns. And for that, we will
sorely miss her in this role. Here are some of
the things that the block captains mentioned
when she let them know she was stepping
down:
By Jeannie Malkiewicz and Eric Costello
On behalf of FHNA and the Hillsider staff, we
would like to take this opportunity to thank
Ryan Hada for his hard work and dedication
as President of our Neighborhood Association. Ryan is one of those people whose enthusiasm is contagious and inspired so many
new people to volunteer for the Hillsider and
the FHNA Board. He is a “big picture” thinker
and would always remind you of the ultimate
goal when the going got tough. He helped
bring our neighborhood together, knowing
that this was the only way things would get
accomplished. We wish him well in his new
endeavors, and look forward to seeing him
around the Hill.
Also on behalf of FHNA and the block captains, we’d also like to thank Kelly Sheehan
for the amazing job she did as Chair of the
block captains. Kelly’s warm personality,
outgoing nature, and ability to work with our
neighbors were instrumental in our efforts to
help bolster a true sense of community in this
neighborhood. Anyone who knows her will
tell you that you could never catch her not
“Thank you so much for everything that you
have done to help make our neighborhood a
wonderful place to live.”
“It has been a pleasure to work with you and
I am grateful for everything I have learned
from you.”
“I want to thank you for all your time, effort
and leadership skills. You have made being
a block captain rewarding and enjoyable
(not an easy accomplishment). Please know
that you are appreciated by everyone on our
street (and beyond).”
“Thank you for your dedication and boundless enthusiasm. You have been a breath of
fresh air.”
We will definitely miss you!
We wish Kelly the best of luck and happiness
and look forward to seeing her in the ‘hood!
The real estate market is always changing...
Our team has made improvements and now has expanded
to include new agents to serve your real estate needs.
We now offer members of the team who reside not only in
Federal Hill, Locust Point and Canton. We offer complete
real estate services in Anne Arundel and a majority of
Baltimore County.
This expansion adds more meaning to our motto
“Your next home is our priority.”
BACK FROM LEFT:
Jim Gunsiorowski, Tim Klempa, Kevin Cooke, Jeff Washo and Steven Murphy
FRONT FROM LEFT: Beth Leety, Jody Buck, Leslie Gibbons and Shannon Crook
Contact the team for more information on how we can help
you sell your home or help you find your next one!
Patrick Marsiglia
410-292-1660
www.accesscap.com
office: 410-547-5710
www.live21230.com
Joe Key
443-415-6742
Page 6 - November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Federal Hillsider
PHONE: 410-539-7757
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Federal Hillsider
KVML Baltimore Chapter
Launches Third Season
with October Party
About four dozen chapter veterans, new
members, friends, and supporters of the
Baltimore Chapter of the Kurt Vonnegut
Memorial Library gathered at The Book
Escape-Tradestone Gallery in historic
Federal Hill on Friday night, October 12,
to celebrate the official start of the group’s
third year. The party was hosted by chapter
founder and president Jane Wehrle and
chapter member Al Wehrle and made
possible by Andrew Stonebarger, owner
of the
the two quaint Baltimore landmarks. Sideby-side , these two locations offer an array
of new and used books and remarkable
Russian art treasures and jewelry, and with
their lovely connecting open garden patio,
made the perfect setting for a fun filled
evening of reconnecting and introductions.
The Book Escape carries Vonnegut books
and other Vonnegut Memorial Library
items throughout the year.
FederalHillBaltimore.org
In addition to the Wehrles, several of the
original chapter organizers were on hand
to toast the new season, including Helen
Huriaux and husband Richard, Kathie
McCleskey, Lane Berk, George Patton and
wife Eileen Ambrose,
and Steve Cole and
wife Jane Seebold.
Americans for the
Arts’ Roger Vacovsky
also attended from the
DC area. The night
featured an assortment
of lite fair, including
outstanding
catering
from “Cheese Galore
and More.” Owner
Sharon Johnson was
there
to
celebrate
the evening and is
currently
reading
Vonnegut. An open bar
and gorgeous desserts
provided
by
the
Indianapolis
mother
ship made everything wonderful.
The Baltimore Chapter was still glowing
from its recent experience at The Baltimore
Mortgages without obstacles.
Matt Colimore
Mortgage Banker
410.308.87 2 2
[email protected]
NMLS: 194963
Apply online at your convenience:
www.mattcolimore.com
© 2012 PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company. Trade/service marks are the property of PlainsCapital Corporation, PlainsCapital Bank, or their
respective affiliates and/or subsidiaries. Some products may not be available in all states. This is not a commitment to lend. Restrictions apply. All rights
reserved. PrimeLending, A PlainsCapital Company (NMLS no: 13649) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of a state-chartered bank. MD Dept. of Labor,
Licensing & Regulation- lender lic no. 11058. 1954 Greenspring Drive, Suite 625, Timonium, Maryland 21093.
November 2012 - Page 7
Book Festival in late September where
the group for a second year welcomed
Vonnegut enthusiasts and introduced
others to his work, sold books, T-shirts and
other accessories, and added to its growing
regional
mailing
list . Several of the
most active and
talented members
were recruited there
last year, including
Wayne
Laufert,
Imania
Price,
Okechi Hamilton,
Tori Lejewski, and
Howard Lewitt.
The Kurt Vonnegut
Baltimore Chapter
Book Club meets
monthly at The
Federal Hill Main
Street office
or
chapter
members’ homes,
beginning this year on October 25, when
the group will discuss SLAPSTICK and
selections from WAMPETERS, FOMA,
and GRANFALLOONS.
Page 8 - November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Mayor’s Cleanup Day A Rousing Success!!
by Walt Saxon
With unexpected, great pre-hurricane weather, fantastic participation by neighbors and
residents, on-time delivery and pickup of the scheduled City-supplied container, and help
from all the volunteers who pitched in at Robert Baker Park, Federal Hill Park, and the
dumpster itself, we produced another record turnout in both trash and recycled items. A
big thank you to everyone who cleaned, spruced, planted, pulled (weeds, etc.) or just plain
showed up—every one of you made a difference!! As a matter of record, the City container
at William and Warren was completely filled by the time we wrapped things up. Thanks
for all your contributions to make it happen!
Special thanks to Gayle for the coffee and donuts; Kathy for setting up Robert Baker
activities; Michael, James, Joe, Phil and Cindy, Mark, Ginny, Richard, Kyle, and all those
of you who I may have missed. If you weren’t able to make it this fall, remember to check
it out next spring—we do this twice a year!
Here’s to a safe and happy Halloween and a great Thanksgiving to all our friends, neighbors,
and business from everyone on the Beautification and Green committee. If you want to
volunteer, have questions, etc. please contact me at 410-703-9133. All are welcome.
Federal Hillsider
Federal Hillsider
The Hill Street News
By Jane Wehrle
I have lived on E Wheeling Street for
over twenty years. The last few weeks
have been among the most challenging
in many ways. Of course, I still contend
it is the best street in the region, but
recently it might remind a daytime
observer of a weird combination
of The Dust Bowl meets Extreme
Home Makeover meets Demolition
Derby meets The Dating Game. The
medium-sized apartment and retail
complex that spans the block on Light
Street between E Hamburg and E
Wheeling Streets has been undergoing
major renovations, including the
restructuring of 10 apartments and
several storefronts.
Meanwhile, a private residence next
door on E Wheeling has added a new
floor, and both projects have included
not only pounding and nailing and
sawing but also extensive stucco
work. With stucco work comes noisy
generators and sand, and with sand
comes DUST! Concurrently, two other
homes halfway down the block are
being completely gutted, presumably to
be rehabbed. Both were covered outside
with formstone, and that covering
had to go. So, speaking of dust…It
is everywhere, from the removal of
substances from both inside and out.
Another added feature has been the
reappearance of little friends not seen
on E Wheeling Street for a long, long
time. Let us call them the members
of the rodent species, relocating as
their long-time undisturbed habitats
are being destroyed, Thankfully, the
vast majority seem--so far--to be tiny
mice. I am keeping my fingers crossed
and am even fonder of my humongous
Tibu Fat Cat than before. The amazing
process continues. How long, we ask?
As for The Dating Game
reference, many of us who are
sometimes home during the daytime
note it is difficult to ignore the loud
FederalHillBaltimore.org
conversations that take place during
some work shifts when the hardworking fellows share stories about
their love lives. Oh, my. I will say no
more about that.
Speaking on a quite different outdoor
theme, Federal Hill resident and
songster JENNY LEIGH (aka Jenny
Leigh Freeman) told me recently that
she especially enjoys summer and fall
because there are outdoor festivals in
the city almost every weekend. She
loves the tight-knit music community
here that spans across many genres.
Jenny was born in DC and grew up in
Frederick , Maryland, but a marketing
job with Under Armour brought her to
Baltimore five years ago. In the past
few years, she built a band around
her original music, her love of guitar,
and her ever-evolving style. She cites
the influences of performing in the
capella group Twisted Measure while
attending Elon College, listening
to her favorite Motown greats, The
Eagles, and Sheryl Crow, and the
powerful explosive vocals of female
recording artists like Martina McBride
and Carrie Underwood. Jenny was
prominently featured at the recent
Federal Hill Main Street “Street Beat”
Festival and is enjoying great success
throughout the region. She also gained
national recognition with her recent
appearance as a contestant on CW’s
“The Next,” and says “I learned a lot
from this experience. I was able to
perform on national television and
represent Baltimore while working
with celebrity mentors throughout the
filming and performing.” We wish our
talented neighbor all the best!
Let me introduce you to The Federal
Hill Four—although at times they and
their fellow pedalers number as many
as ten. They are a very active group
of business owners in our area who
are really into cycling. The original
FF4 are SONNY MORSTEIN, DR.
BILL LEBOE, TOM HAMPER, and
RET. OFFICER KEN LIPMAN, but
November 2012 - Page 9
they have been joined by many other
intrepid riders over the years. Recently,
as summer changed to early fall, six of
them braved a 124 mile trip over The
Great Appalachian Passage for a two
–days of cycling. Morstein, Leboe,
Hamper, STEVE
FRIEDMAN,
STEVEN
KIRK,
and DAVE REAMER set off
from Cumberland on a lovely
Day and peddled 62 miles on the
crushed limestone trail, some of
it on a steady uphill incline, past
Frostburg,Meyersdale,
Rockwood,
and on to their nightly lodging at
Confluence. They returned on Sunday
and, of course, also crossed the
Eastern Continental Divide both ways.
Not to be outdone, the sportswoman
RANDI MORSTEIN enjoyed herself
playing golf at Rocky Gap while the
guys sweated their way across the
western part of the region. I am greatly
impressed by the entire effort of these
youngsters.
Everyone’s favorite gad-about LANE
BERK has been busier than almost
anyone in the area, as usual. She is
always into at least a dozen projects
at any given time. She is asking for
responses from the community on
two different topics. She is calling for
support in her efforts in a program that
would minimize bullying in schools
and in another which will help people
become aware of their subconscious
biases and prejudices. Anyone
interested in either of these or who
has questions (Lane says: her favorite
thought process) should contact her at
410-727-1880.
Have a great November, everybody.
And keep sending me your interesting
stories to [email protected] for “The
Hill Street News.”
Page 10 - November 2012
Great News! And More
Tree Advice…
FHNA Tree Stewardship 2012-13
FHNA has teamed up with the Federal Hill
Business Association (FHBA) in our effort
to maintain and supplement our valuable
street tree inventory. We have also made
parallel arrangements with Federal Hill
Main Street to cut in 129 new tree pits
creating “homes” for additional street
trees. Federal Hill Hospitality Association
is also participating to match funds from
FHNA, FHBA and MainStreet for this
worthy cause…
We have contacted Parks & People
Foundation as well at City Forestry to avoid
duplicating efforts. These City and nonprofit agencies have limited resources. We
are hoping to coordinate and supplement
their efforts with high goals to enhance
and increase current and ongoing tree
stewardship. Block pruning for example
would lengthen street tree life, allow and
promote improved street lighting and
create a better sense of security in the
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Federal Hillsider
neighborhood. Fall and spring planting
each year partly depends on grinding
stumps from dead trees that have been cut
down at the ground line. This process is
costly and involves coordination parking
restrictions at the impact area. Having the
cars out of the way during stump grinding
alone requires an inordinate amount of
attention. Advance posting of the grinding
machine’s scheduled arrival is not always
effective warning to unsuspecting parked
cars. Several trips are often required until
there is sufficient clearance for grinding
machine access. Sometimes the incoming
balled-and-burlapped tree specimens
are diverted to other, more accessible
neighborhoods. So remember to obey No
Parking signs if they appear in front of a
potential stump grinding location.
trunk. The mulch provides frost protection
during the cold months. Those tree beds
deserve a blanket to get rest for the coming
spring.
With Autumn and Fall upon us, Winter is
just around the corner so don’t forget tree
pit maintenance. Mulch is a wonderful
thing! It holds in moisture, adds nutrients
and acts like a warm blanket on those cold
days and nights. Remember to sweep up
leaves, aerate the soil and mulch around
the tree without piling it up against the
Did you see FHNA’s Federal Hill
Thinking Green (FHTG) booth at the
recent Halloween block party staged by
the Federal Hill Hospitality Association?
Let’s not forget that those timber, brick
or cobblestone borders of any type limit
the potential for our street tree’s success.
Elevated tree pits guarantee in most cases
a shortened life span for our trees. They
keep water from entering the tree pits, they
promote unwanted root growth above the
water line, they are not friendly to car doors
and the resulting elevation of soil around
the tree trunk creates fungus-causing
girdling. Let’s all continue to maintain
a zero-tolerance profile in protecting our
valuable street trees and just SAY NO to
elevated tree pits and infill pavers.
Ricj Polan
[email protected]
Federal Hillsider
FederalHillBaltimore.org
DIGITAL HARBOR SWIM CLUB
November 2012 - Page 11
THAI YUM
AT
DIGITAL HARBOR HIGH SCHOOL
ADULT LAP SWIM SESSIONS
FALL and WINTER/SPRING SEASONS
“Baltimore’s Best
Thai Restaurant”
Baltimore Sun, Oct., 2010
FALL 4 September - 21 December $120
WINTER/SPRING 3 January - 11 June $150
Sign up for both - $240
10-swim Punch Cards - $55
www.thaiyum.com
1006 Light St., Federal Hill
5 Sessions/week
410.528.2146
Contact [email protected] for more information
Give Yourself the
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Page 12 - November 2012
Remembering Rash
By John Ginovsky
The existence of Rash Field, that last major
public interface between Federal Hill and
the Inner Harbor, brings up an interesting
question: How could such a tract of immensely valuable land end up (at least for
now) a vast beach volleyball venue?
Don’t get me wrong. I am all for the volleyball courts. They bring wonderful, healthy
energy to most warm evenings and weekends throughout the year. In the same vein,
not too long ago Rash Field hosted an ice
skating rink which brought similar fun and
picturesque vitality in the cooler months. I
particularly remember an imaginative and
brilliant event somebody brought about
in which the skating rink was the site of
a Sunday Strawberry Shortcake Skating
Festival. Another reason why this is such a
great neighborhood.
But all that is relatively recent history. The
sign on the low building at Key Highway
and Battery Avenue, right across the street
from Rash Field, indicates that a branch of
Susquehanna State Bank will soon open
there. The building itself, as modest as can
be, nevertheless is at least 138 years old
and can be imagined to have witnessed a
remarkable and repeated transformation
of the waterfront where people now strike
balls over nets.
Similarly, generational changes can be discerned at other Key Highway intersections,
such as at Light Street where an ironically
old-school traffic circle is on the drawing
board; at William Street, where Key Highway originally cut north to Light Street;
and at Covington Street, now home to the
acclaimed American Visionary Art Museum.
First, though, Rash Field—what’s up with
that? One source says that it is named after Joseph Rash, a nonBaltimorean who,
as vice president of Safeway Stores in the
1950s, headed the city’s Park Board. He
presumably championed the then-cleared
space to serve as the athletic field for
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Southern High School, then situated a few
blocks up in the neighborhood and which
now serves as condos and apartments. In
any case, that explains the cast-cement
football scoreboard that still stands in one
corner of the field.
Back to the soon-to-open bank branch. A
political map from 1876 shows this building clearly and is labeled “Oyster Packing.”
Right across the street (then-Hughes Street,
extended from the current much-moremodest Hughes Street) stood the Ramsey
Harte Vulcan Steam Engine Works. Behind
that was the E. Stabler Coal Yard—approximately where the water taxi picks up
and drops off now. Across Johnson Street
(which was what this part of Battery Avenue then was known as) loomed the huge
Reeder Boiler Works.
Fast forward to 1951 and the Sanborn Insurance Map of Baltimore. Clearly marked
at Key and Battery is a huge building that
housed the “Hertz Driv-Ur-Self Truck
Rental Garage” and nothing about Reeder.
Of course, this begs the question of what
happened in the intervening 75 years, but
that is something for another time.
Over at Light and Key Highway, pictures
from 1954 in “Federal Hill” by William
Clark and Maria Sosa show an Esso gas
station about where Robert Baker Park is
now. Across the street stood a Sinclair garage. Right at the corner where the Lutheran Center is now stood Mary’s Bar, a onceinfamous sailor’s hangout. Warehouses for
the Red Ball Transit Company and Fred
Crebbins Inc., a purveyor of boat engines
and equipment, stood where the Maryland
Federal Hillsider
Science Center is now.
Back eastward on Key/Hughes, on the 1876
map, one can see at Covington Street the
entrance to what’s labeled as a plaster mill,
and not much more. The 1951 map and
other pictures show considerable development at this site, most notably a huge Pepsi
Cola bottling and shipping plant. Next to
it, at where the Rusty Scupper parking lot
is now, the Chesapeake Marine Railway
operated a drydock/ship repair facility. The
AVAM building was the site of the Baltimore Copper Paint Co., still with an association with the Reeder family, this one
owned by Oliver Reeder and Son.
Speaking of AVAM, its other building, a
little further down Key, was home to the
large F.V. Goldsborough Distilling Corp.
The Sanborn map shows in detail where
raw material was held, the still facility,
boilers for energy, and a major warehouse
where the final barreled whiskey was aged
in a bonded warehouse. (There is a little
display about this at AVAM.)
One last vestige of the past remains, and
anybody who’s had their teeth chattered in
their car knows about them—the steel railroad tracks that persist on Key Highway.
The 1951 map clearly marks them as belonging to the B and O Railroad, and likely
were still much in use then and for years
afterward. They once connected to sidings that ran up Light Street, as well as all
the way down to Locust Point. Judging by
the herculean and pain-in-the-neck effort
it took to get the ones on Light Street removed, don’t expect these to go anywhere
any time soon.
Classified Ad
Babysitter with 27 years experience in Federal Hill looking for a new
family. Prefer mornings until 1PM, but flexible. References include
two pediatricians and other lovely parents. Call Patty at 410-5253506.
Federal Hillsider FederalHillBaltimore.orgNovember 2012 - Page 13
National Federation of
the Blind Holiday Open
House
Join the country’s oldest and largest organization of the blind at a holiday open house
on Saturday, December 8, 2012 from 12:00
p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the National Federation
of the Blind’s (NFB) headquarters at 200
East Wells Street at Jernigan Place. Come
for a tour of the beautiful NFB building and
see what new technologies are emerging
and helping blind people across the world.
Explore the kids zone with your little ones
to learn about the many fun educational
tools and games NFB offers to children
of all ages. Enjoy a festive holiday atmosphere with a special visit from Santa Claus,
and raffle items from local restaurants and
shops.
Come visit your neighbors on Wells Street
and see what the NFB is all about!
1 1/4 lb. Alaskin King Crab dinner
$39.95
Help change what it means to be blind. For
more information or to make an online donation to the NFB programs, please visit
www.nfb.org/make-gift.
The Hillsider is
Growing - We Need
Your Help
BALTIMORE’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY EVENT OF THE SEASON
THE ANNUAL LOOP HOLIDAY GALA
A Joyous Gathering of Revelry and Generosity
If you would like to help
with the publication
or have an article or
picture you would like to
contribute - write to us at
[email protected]
Our practice has been
to print submissions
intact - only editing for
grammar, spelling and space
considerations
No politics or personal
attacks, of course
YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO ENHANCE YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON & HELP YOUR COMMUNITY
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
COME ONE COME ALL
Come Meet The Zillions of Loopsters and Bring Your Friends
Free Wonderful Holiday Fare Buffet, Amazing Drink Specials, Cocktail Samples,
Large Silent Auction, Holiday Carols, Singing, Karaoke, MS.Santa,
BE THERE: Friday, December 7th, 2012
TIME: 7 PM until...
WHERE:
THE ROWAN TREE TAVERN
1633 S. CHARLES ST, FEDERAL HILL (410-468-0550)
BENEFITTING
Federal Hill Main Street Small Business Fund, The American Rescue Workers Food Bank,
The Allen Center for Seniors, Dog Rescue of Maryland
Your Sponsors:
Jane Wehrle C/O THE LOOP
RON ZIMMERMAN REALTORS®
WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
ADMISSION FEE: ONE OR MORE Non-Perishable Food Items
ALSO ACCEPTING GRATEFULLY: NEW TOYS FOR CHILDREN-PEDIATRICS AIDS FOUNDATION
Page 14 -
November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
Federal Hillsider
SAVE THE DATE
Friday, Dec 14 7-11pm
Tree Lighting at Rec Center Park
(corner of Light & Cross)
Followed by Main Street’s
Moonlight Madness
Details to follow in December’s
Hillsider
Put a Little Wellness
into Your Holiday
No Lines, No Wait…Purchase your Gift Card Online
Today. Apothecary-Wellness.com
Give the gift of wellness this holiday season.
Our gift certificates are a great way to celebrate the
holidays with a variety of holistic services from custom
massages to organic skin care to acupuncture..
1200 Light Street
Baltimore. MD 21230
443 540 4022
apothecary-wellness.com
Federal HillsiderFederalHillBaltimore.orgNovember 2012 - Page 15
FHHA TRIVIA:
Q:
Ready to be the first know about upcoming specials and
events happening at your favorite Federal Hill bars and
restaurants? Then you are ready for the FHHA TEXT CLUB!
To join scan the icon above or TEXT “fedhill” to 34681
FHHA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT :
The FHHA is thrilled to
welcome SOBO café and Best of Baltimore
winner Anna Leventis ( best new owner) into its
ranks!
The café’s tagline “Contemporary.
Comfort. Food.” couldn't be better stated.
Well, we might suggest they add Forward
Thinking, Seasonally Inspired and Downright
Delicious to their slogan...but hey, that gets a
little wordy!
From the moment you step through the cafes
door, taking in the happy hues, local art, and
delicious aromas, you know you will be a
return customer!
Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30 AM - 2 PM
Dinner: Monday – Saturday 5 PM – 10 PM
Sunday 5 PM – 9 PM
Phone: (410) 752-1518
6 W Cross Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
Which FHHA
establishment
hosts the Charm
City “Burger
War” and “Wing
Wars”?
A:
First five to
correctly post
the answer on
our Twitter /
Facebook page
will WIN a
$10 Gift Card
Redeemable
at that mystery
location!
Check in each
issue of SoBo Voice
for a new FHHA
Trivia
Giveaway!
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DRINKING AND DINING DELIGHTS IN HISTORIC FEDERAL HILL BY FOLLOWING THE FHHA ONLINE.
TWITTER @FHHA21230
FACEBOOK.COM/FEDHILL
Page 16 -
November 2012
FederalHillBaltimore.org
STILL LOCALLy OwNEd.
NOw NATIONALLy kNOwN.
234 E mONTGOmERy ST
Federal Hillsider
Scan with any smartphone
3423 WOODBERRy avE
509 HaRBORvIEW DR
OvERLOOk CLIPPER mILL
$599,500
FEDERaL HILL
$599,500
221 WEST HILL ST
66 mURDOCk RD
2041 E. LOmBaRD ST
OTTERBEIN
$399,900
RODGERS FORGE
$289,000
BUTCHERS HILL
$405,000
FEDERaL
HILL
$699,000
AGENT SPOTLIGHT
“Heather has an wide area of expertise. She knew what she was doing at all times. It was very
reassuring to know she was in our corner. Heather rapidly earned our total respect and trust.”
-Martin and Kimberly Lodge.
“Heather is a savvy real estate agent who never forgets her first commitment,
her clients. She represents the best of the best and continues to impress me
with her commitment to excellence.”
-Paul Fenn
Heather C. Perkins
443-928-9613 cell
email: [email protected]
A RETROSPECTIvE
Opening Reception ~ Artwork by Joe Halperin
November 14th from 5:30-7:30 pm
Wine & Cheese
Sponsored by:
Federal Hill Office • 1011 Light Street
410.727.0606 ywgcrealty.com
©2012 BRER Affiliates Inc. An independently owned and operated broker member of
BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential logo and the Rock symbol are registered
service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many
jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license with no other affiliation of Prudential.
Equal Housing Opportunity.