According to the USNA’s “A Brief History of USNA,” the impetus for the inception of the Navy Academy started around 1842. At this time, those who belonged to the Navy were tasked with furthering their education by their own means in conditions not suitable for learning. In December of that year, what was assumed to be a mutiny involving midshipmen and their captain kick started the need for a better, more structured learning environment. Finally, three years subsequent to the perceived mutiny, newly appointed Secretary of the Navy George Bancroft established the Naval Academy in Annapolis. The school started out with programs in English, math and navigation, philosophy, French, gunnery and steam, and chemistry but has grown to offer much more. What started out as the site to educate 50 men in the Navy increased as the esteemed place of education and service preparation for thousands by the time 1850 rolled around. Fast forward to 1976, the Naval Academy continued to grow and during that year, allowed women to study at the academy for the first time. The information here is simply an overview from what’s offered on USNA’s site. You can learn much more about the timeline on the following link: http://www.usna.edu/USNAHistory/history.htm.

As far as Commissioning Week goes, it exists to graduate the men and women who have worked hard and upheld standards; however, it also speaks to the progress the Naval Academy has made from 1845 until now. From a time where education was not nearly as privileged as it is now, it is clear that the Naval Academy has made major strides and in turn, has improved the lives of countless men and women.

Though the Blue Angels demo and fly-by have been cancelled, the show proudly goes on. There are concerts, showcases of research projects, receptions, and more that the families of graduating midshipmen can experience. See the full schedule on this link: http://www.usna.edu/CommissioningWeek/_files/documents/2013_CommWkScheduleOfEvents.pdf. Though the majority of these events are not open to the public, the multiple museums and restaurants on the Naval Academy property will be open for all the enjoy. Here’s a list of the Naval Academy locations you can go to:

•The Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center and Naval Academy Gift Shop: This is the official visitor center located at 250 King George Street. Tours of the premises are given from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and 12 noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday. If you happen to be a midshipmen or are the parent of one, you receive 10% off items at the Gift Shop. To contact the gift shop, call 410-293-4483. To contact the visitor center, call 410-293-8687. Or, head to the website: www.navyonline.com. Maps for the other buildings on the property are available at the visitor center.

•The Naval Academy Museum is open from Monday through Saturday. The hours for these days are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday’s hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum houses exactly what it sounds like: navy history. During Commissioning Week, the museum displays an exhibit for the War of 1812 in the Mahan Hall Hart Room. This exhibit is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Peruse the museum and revel in the history of your city. Contact 410-293-2108 to learn about the museum.

•Dahlgren Hall’s Drydock Restaurant is also open during Commissioning Week, serving breakfast, lunch, and snack foods like pizzas and sandwiches. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The restaurant can be reached at 410-293-2873.

Some more Commissioning Week activities include music concerts and religious services. Wednesday at two in the afternoon, there is a Commissioning Week Music Festival scheduled with music by Crabtown Stompers and the Electric Brigade at Ingram Track. There are no tickets required and the dress is casual. As far as religious services go, St. Andrews Church hosts mass on Wednesday at 12:50 p.m. and on Thursday at the same time. For a schedule of more Commissioning Week events, head to http://www.usna.edu/CommissioningWeek/Schedule/index.php.

Bear in mind that parking will be limited and thus, taking a bus, carpooling, or even walking is encouraged.

If the above message (about parking) is enough to deter you from driving into the city to witness the graduation, tune into Navy’s All Access channel (http://www.navysports.com/allaccess/?media=384382) at 9 a.m. or watch the graduation on the Pentagon Channel at 10 a.m. (http://www.PentagonChannel.mil/).

After Commissioning Week, there are more noteworthy events headed your way from Navy. June marks the month of I-Day, another exciting event that brings in a new batch of midshipmen. Several musical performances are scheduled for June as well, like the National Music Festival on June 2. Plebe Summer also begins. Head to www.usna.edu to learn about these events and more. The final piece left to say: Go Navy!

-  Big Joe Turner

It was the kitchen battle that changed Kevin Relf from a kid who liked to cook into a young man who knew he was going to be a chef: duplicating his grandfather’s braised Blue Crab dish so perfectly that no one could tell the difference.

“That’s the dish that made me want to be a chef,” said Relf, 26, a Long Island, N.Y., native with degrees in cooking and hotel administration  from the Culinary Institute of America and Cornell University. “My Mom freaked out when I told her, but I just love food. I love everything about it.”

            That love, combined with hard work and nostalgia for his mother’s Italian heritage led Relf to his first big-league gig: executive chef at West Kitchen & Tavern, the restaurant that opened in July 2012 at Loews Hotel in downtown Annapolis, Maryland.

            With their kitchen on view – “I like an open kitchen,” said Relf, “you’re not hiding anything and everybody can see the action” – and a menu emphasizing seafood, West was built inside the hotel’s former lobby and replaces a restaurant called Breeze.

The action: jumbo lump crab cakes for $14; a very popular baby kale salad – with candied pecans and goat cheese – for $8; a $15 artisan board of cured meats and cheeses; rockfish; salmon; local bison short ribs from herds raised in Monkton; tavern steak smeared with garlic and herbs; hearth oven pizza (“We’re striving for the Neapolitan style,” said Relf); and daily selections of local oysters, clams on the half-shell, grilled whole lobster and a lot of crab meat on everything from green salads to bowls of bisque.

“My goal is to use the best ingredients perfectly and not to complicate the flavors,” said Relf, who will be tweaking the menu this Memorial Day weekend. “The food should speak for itself.”

The menu was designed by Relf, who earned the top job in the spring of 2012 during a New York City audition in which he set up a nine-course “sampling” and presentation of the West “concept” for Loews CEO Jonathan M. Tisch. The sampling turned into a dining experience, a meal (Tisch ate and enjoyed) and Relf got the job.

“I cooked my heart out,” said Relf, as he did earlier this month when West served more than 250 parties for Mother’s Day brunch and dinner.

So far, Grandpa Pollio’s Secret Blue Claw Special – perfected in East Quogue, N.Y. – isn’t on the menu in the blue crab capital of the mid-Atlantic. Back in Relf’s Long Island hometown, the meal begins with catching the crabs at the end of the dock.

“We peel off the shell [of the live crab] and clean out the guts,” said Relf. The shells are boiled in water for stock.  And then the crabs are braised in the stock with butter, lots of butter, bread crumbs and herbs. You let them braise for maybe 20 or 30 minutes. That’s really it.”

Garlic? Lemon?

BREAD CRUMBS?

On fresh water hard crabs?

“He never told anybody exactly how he made it,” said Relf, who, before moving to Annapolis, had not enjoyed blue crabs the Maryland: steamed way with Old Bay and kosher salt and black pepper, cracked tableside and eaten with your fingers.

Relf’s girlfriend, Brianna Sucik, a nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital in Baltimore, took him to Cantler’s on Forest Beach Road, for the experience. He ordered the a

ll-you-can-eat and when they arrived was puzzled that the shells were on.

“I’m used to the other way,” he said, though he did enjoy the “mustard” – which the Long Islanders scrub away before cooking.

[What Marylander’s call the crab’s mustard is the creature’s hepatopancreas, part of its digestive system. Relf liked the flavor the yellow goo made when mixed with the Old Bay seasoning and tiny cups of vinegar and drawn butter some restaurants serve with steamed crabs.]

Grandpa’s way – the work Anthony Pollio, age 80 – was harder for young Relf to crack than a big Jimmy steamed orange and waiting on newspaper for the mallet.

“I was about 14 and he told me some of the basic ingredients when I was just starting to apply to culinary schools,” said Relf. “It took me about five times to get it right. I knew it was about the garlic. The garlic and the bread crumbs coat the crab. But finally I figured out his secret ingredient – Cajun spice, just a little.”

Grandpa’s Crabs have been codified in a Pollio family cookbook that Relf has put together [he keeps a copy in the West kitchen] but so far is not available to the public.

“I love fresh seafood and appreciate distinct cultures,” said Relf, who isn’t sure how the East Quogue approach would go over here in Crabtown, USA. “Crabs are a Maryland thing.”

-o-

West is offering frequent diners specials to reward repeat customers year-round. The program is called “Hey Neighbor” with free goodies available simply by showing a membership card to your server.

The month of May highlights patio pitchers of sangria, draft beer or spiked lemonade – with a shared plate of appetizers like grilled artichokes – for $13. A new menu also debuts in late May with offerings like aged pork T-bone served with beets and sweet peas with tarragon.

June features a $2 local draft beer and $1 oyster combo with July bringing members a free Cobblestone soda – spiked or virgin – with any other purchase.

If Chef Relf happens by (he enjoys greeting customers near the pizza hearth) ask him about Grandpa’s crabs and the dessert his grandmother Eleanor is famous for: coffee cake with three times the tasty “crumbs” on top than cake on the bottom.

And he’ll likely tell you what’s good that day in the kitchen at 126 West Street in historic Annapolis, Maryland.

“The whole idea of this restaurant is that it’s for the locals as much as the people staying here,” said Relf of the 216-room, regatta themed hotel. “If it’s in season and it’s local, we’re using it.”

Annapolis Entertainment

Even if you do not know a soon-to-be graduate of the US Naval Academy, the graduation on Friday, May 24, is still important to recognize. The once-plebes will be graduates of the academy and willing servicemen and women of the nation. Stroll around downtown, hear the music at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, or if you do know a graduate, congratulate him or her. The wind ensemble begins at 10 a.m.

Also at Navy, the USNA Zimmerman Bandstand hosts a Ceremonial Unit at 12:15 p.m. on Monday to mark the start of commissioning week. The musical will be from the Trident Brass. Head to www.usna.edu/USNABand/events.htm to read more.

Women’s Glee Club at Navy will also celebrate commissioning week on Tuesday, May 21 with a concert at Mahan Hall. The performance is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. Tickets are required for this event.

Mr. Monte Maxwell and Navy’s Gospel Choir also perform for commissioning week, though not together. Maxwell performs on the organ on Wednesday at 4 p.m. The Gospel Choir performs at 4 p.m. on Thursday. The location for both events is the USNA Main Chapel. For more on these commissioning week events, look to www.usna/Music.html.

You know summer is closely approaching when the first performance from Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre begins. The opener for the season is a whimsical, marvelous musical with tunes that not only drive the exciting dances on stage, but will make you want to jive in your seat. Swing! is the title of the musical, a show that revels in the boom of diversified dance in America some decades ago. The musical kicks off on May 23 and ends June 15. It seems appropriate to encourage you to boogie on down to 143 Compromise Street as soon as you can. The contact is http://www.summergarden.com.

At Schooner Woodwind, the jam-packed season of water tours are just beginning. This Tuesday, join the crew for a Lighthouse Cruise around the Chesapeake Bay. The price is $79 per person. The cruise departs at 11 a.m. and returns at 3:30 p.m. Go to http://www.schoonerwoodwind.com to read more about this cruise and other upcoming ones.

Another magnificent summer activity is watching the Wednesday Night Sailboat Races from the Annapolis Harbor. Annapolis Yacht Club puts this weekly races on, which are free to the public and begin the afternoon. Join the Annapolis tradition!

Annapolis History

Perhaps the warmer weather has inspired you to seek outdoor entertainment. If so, partake in one of Watermark’s land tours (they also have water tours). This Monday, there is a “Colonial Stroll” and a few days after that, “Four Centuries Walking Tour[s]” are scheduled. The departure times for most tours are 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. However, the later tours, like the “Historic Ghost Walk” on Friday, May 24, begin at 7:30 p.m. to aid in the spook factor. Head to http://annapolistours.com to book yours!

Annapolis Green

Though this next entry isn’t necessarily an “event,” it’s still important. On Thursday, May 23, Whole Foods at 200 Harker Place will donate 5% of its profits to Severn Riverkeeper. As the name of the organization states, Severn Riverkeeper will benefit from donations as it fights to raise awareness about the watershed and keep it clean. Buy some delicious bakery items, make yourself a fresh salad, or stock up on all kinds of groceries from Whole Foods and help area waters too.

Here’s a true green event: canoeing at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Edgewater. Join some seasoned guides and locate native fish, turtles, and various other animals in Muddy Creek and Rhode River. The cost for this event is $16 for adults and $8 for children. For these two green events and more, go to http://www.annapolisgreen.com.

Annapolis Entertainment

If you deem entertainment as relaxing and singing along to varied genres of music at a local spot, you are in luck. 49 West Coffeehouse provides a weeklong session of great music for relatively cheap. Monday, four singer/songwriters hit the stage on West Street and perform their own tunes. See these originals for $10 on Monday from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday, Unified Jazz Ensemble performs at 8:30 p.m. This show is acoustic jazz at its finest, done by friends. See this group for $6. Wednesday, Starr’s Jazz Jam returns with Joe Byrd and some others at 7 p.m. The show is jazzy and costs a cool $10. Thursday, The Fred Hughes Trio is scheduled for a jazz performance at 8 p.m. Come see this acclaimed group for $10. Friday, guitar-playing, part-indie-sounding, incredibly-talented Bob Sima performs at 8 p.m. for $20. Saturday, The Jazz Update brings harmonized music from saxophones, bass, and pianos to the stage. This group plays at 8 and 10 p.m. for $20 each. Sunday, round out the week with the Swing Brothers at 4 p.m. for free; Sue Matthews and Steve Abshire for jazz at 7 for $20; and Jonathan Stone for free coffeehouse tunes at 10 a.m. Learn more about these events at http://49westcoffeehouse.com.

Now that the weather is a bit more spring-like, partake in area cruises! There are several cruise lines and areas that these cruises travel to. Watermark cruises depart every Saturday and Sunday from now until June 23 when the season really picks up. It depends which cruise you choose, but most last 90 minutes, and all are enjoyable. The price and reservation policy is dependent on the cruise you would like to enjoy. Pencil one in on your busy calendar; visit http://cruisesonthebay.com to do so. If you’re a Schooner Woodwind guy or gal, the same things go for this popular cruising company: price, place, and reservations are dependent. View http://www.schoonerwoodwind.com to learn more.

The Colonial Players end this week on a high note with the final curtain performance of their hysterical (pun intended) yet historical play. In the Next Room, in case you haven’t heard, revolves around a young wife’s interest in her husband’s new invention: the vibrator. Meant to cure hysterics, the wife is both stounded and perplexed by her husband’s invention at the same time. Come see this 1880 performance either Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday before the play ends. Look to www.thecolonialplayers.org to purchase your tickets.

Annapolis Green

It’s another round of Green Drinks this Tuesday. The location is Brian Boru Restaurant off Route 2. Enjoy the ambiance and learn about green area practices from 5:30 p.m. This event is free though there is a cash bar.

City Dock is the place to be this Friday for a celebration of National Bike to Work Day. There will be prizes, shirts, snacks, and info circulating the very green event from 7 a.m. to 8:45 a.m.

Saturday, there are several family-friendly events from which to choose: one at Quiet Waters, one at Smithsonian Research Center, and one at Cabin Branch off the Severn River. Hike, learn, and participate in making the Earth a better place. Find out the details for these family-friendly events and the others listed under “Annapolis Green” here: www.annapolisgreen.com.

Annapolis Art

The Annapolis Collection Gallery is known for its unique, lovely, and local art. This weekend (May 18-20), head out to the gallery for a meet and greet with DC artist Maggie O’Neill. O’Neill
is of course talented, but has a special ability to capture Americana via paint. See what inspires her at the show from 6 to 9 p.m. Look to http://www.annapoliscollectiongallery.com to read more.

Annapolis Entertainment

Davy DeArmond, a trumpet player at the Naval Academy, performs in a recital this Sunday at the Christ Episcopal Church in Columbia. Support local performers, art, and the USNA. The recital begins at 3 p.m. Head to http://www.usna.edu/USNABand/events.htm to learn more about the event.

The Price, a performance put on by the talented Bay Theatre Company, continues this week. If you haven’t heard about the play or seen it yet, here’s the synopsis: two brothers meet up again after years of distance. The meeting place: the family’s attic. Stakes are high and so are emotions. The play continues until Sunday, May 12. Look to http://www.baytheatre.org to read more about the play.

Another play (though a bit raunchier than the last) by The Colonial Players, is also available for viewing this week. The play, entitled In the Next Room, features the wife of a doctor who invents the vibrator, and some other integral characters who bring comedy, mystery, and curiosity to the 1880 setting. For more information, head to http://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org.

The Annapolis Wine Expo is certainly an event this Saturday you don’t want to let slip away. The event, which is held at the Navy stadium in the “N” room, features tastings of all sorts of wines, food,and the sounds of local music. You must pre-register at www.annapoliswineexpo.com. Wine will be flowing around noon.

St. John’s College continues their “Community Art Exhibition” through the end of this week. This eclectic art show features a range of textures, colors, patterns, and formats that are all cultivated by community artists. See what local people can do by attending this exhibit. Click on the following link to read more: http://www.stjohnscollege.edu.

Friday, May 10, Schooner Woodwind encourages Annapolitan lovers and friends to join them for a cruise around area waters set to the intimate sounds of Tony Lucca. Lucca will perform acoustic music that’s oh-so harmonious with the pace and sentiment of the lapping water. Friday, enjoy a sunset sail with Lucca. If Friday is too hectic, try for a brunch sail with Lucca on Saturday, May 11. Or, if Mother’s Day is the focus of your weekend, try a brunch cruise on Sunday, May 12. Each sail–including the ones with Lucca–feature delicious, freshly prepared food and drinks with the ticket. The Mother’s Day sail departs at 11 a.m. Book your sail here: http://www.schoonerwoodwind.com.

Annapolis Green

The Philip Merrill Environmental Center in Annapolis hosts the “Free Bike Commuter Safety Workshop” on Wednesday, May 8. This commuter safety workshop is for the bikers around Annapolis–those who currently bike and want to know more or those who haven’t tried commuting via bikes. Learn about safe biking from 6 to 9 p.m.

At the classy and lovely Annapolis Marriott Waterfront Hotel, you can celebrate the 15th Annual “Treasure the Chesapeake” by eating of the Chesapeake. There will be oysters, other fresh seafood, live music, casino games, cocktails, and much more. Truly, this is an Annapolitan celebration! Tickets cost $100 and more, depending on a few factors. This event starts on Friday at 7 p.m. Additional information pertaining to these two green events can be found at http://www.annapolisgreen.com.

Annapolis History

It’s another week of entertainment at the William Paca House on Prince George Street. This week, the entertainment comes in the form of a cocktail party/garden tour/silent auction. Ken’s Creative Kitchen, Annapolis Historic Foundation, and the great folks at the William Paca House team up to bring you an auction chock full of intricate garden art, plants, and more. The price is $100 per person, but this comes with the beauty of the Paca property and promise of delicious food, cocktails, and lots of enjoyment. The event is scheduled for Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. Look to http://www.annapolis.org for tickets.

A May basket with photos and tulips for May Day in Annapolis

May Day is one of the most beautiful days in Annapolis and is one of the most spectacular celebrations of Spring anywhere in the area. On May 1 and throughout the week that follows, the doors of homes and businesses in our centuries old city are adorned with baskets full of fresh cut flowers and colorful ribbons.  This year, the flowers should be particularly beautiful for an extended period because the temperatures remain cool.  If you haven’t yet treated yourself to a stroll along the streets of Annapolis’s Historic District on this day of days, this is the year to indulge.

What began as a Garden Club of Old Annapolis Towne beautification project in 1956 has grown into a 57 year old tradition in which residents and business owners compete for winning ribbons and an invitation to the Garden Club’s Annual Tea on May 3.

Colorful doors become even more spectacular with flowers and ribbons on May Day in Annapolis

If you start your day bright and early, you’ll catch the flowers at their best. To be considered in the judging, all baskets must be hung by 10:00 a.m. That’s when the 25-strong Garden Club membership takes to the streets of the Historic District and Murray Hill to begin the annual judging. With a 57 year track record, they have it down to a system. After enjoying a judges’ coffee at a member’s home (this year it’s on Market Street), Club members divide into eight groups and begin their work, often with guest judges in tow. They’ll be carrying baskets of flowers decorated with streamers as they walk around awarding blue, pink, yellow, and – new this year – purple ribbons.

Gibson’s Lodging adorns an old washing machine for May Day in Annapolis

Blue ribbons are pinned to winning baskets arranged by adults. Pink ribbons and Tootsie Roll Pops go to outstanding children’s arrangements, and yellow ribbons adorn winning baskets in the “special buildings” category. Some of Annapolis’s most well-known architectural gems vie for the yellow – including the William Paca House and Garden, St. Anne’s Church, St. Mary’s Church, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the Admissions’ Office at St. John’s College. You’ll also see a few purple ribbons this year – reserved for florist shops. All of the lucky winners will be invited to an old time tea at the home of a Garden Club member. The special occasion makes all of the hours that go into creating a stunning floral display well worth it.

Winners who attend the 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. tea will feast on traditional tea sandwiches, cookies, and petit fours, some made from the same recipes of 57 years ago. The setting will be as elegant as the tea party itself – with a festive May Pole in the backyard and no less than a dozen Garden Club-created floral arrangements on display throughout the house.

Don’t miss this once a year rain or shine opportunity to see Annapolis in all of its spring glory. Inspired by this annual tradition, West Annapolis businesses will be participating in a May Day contest of their own this year. Regardless of whether they capture a ribbon, all of the baskets are winners, and if you take the time to walk our streets and take in the beauty of our May Day flowers, you’ll be the lucky grand prize winner!

Annapolis Entertainment

May not only brings flowers (according to the old “April showers bring May flowers” adage), but this spring month also brings an old European tradition to downtown Annapolis businesses. May Day returns again for the year on the first of the month. Walk around downtown and see the gorgeous arrangements hanging on doors. This is completely free entertainment that adds to the beauty of downtown Annapolis–embrace it!

Fresh Farm Markets, a regional movement, is founded on the idea that we should eat and live healthfully and joyfully. In the vein of this belief, Fresh Farm Markets visits Annapolis this week with music by Queen Earth. See her perform live this Sunday, May 5. Contact Fresh Farm Market at 202-362-8889 for the location and additional information.

United States Naval Academy’s Band kicks off the entertainment this week with a saxophone recital performed by the ever-talented Doug O’Connor, Musician First Class. Enjoy classical renditions by Bach, Green, and more. There are no tickets required for this free event–it’s open to all who want a treat of classical sounds. The recital takes place at St. Anne’s Church at 6 p.m. This is a Thursday night performance. Head to www.usna.edu/USNABand/events.htm.

Over at Bay Theatre, The Price, a play about two estranged brothers who reconvene one day much to their surprise, continues on this week. The show runs until May 19. Head to www.baytheatre.org to purchase tickets for this emoitionally charged, situationally driven performance.

The Colonial Players opens a new performance that’s sure to shock, inspire, and entertain you to the fullest. In the Next Room, or The Vibrator Play, as its been dubbed, opens on Friday, May 3. This play is about a doctor who invents the vibrator, and his wife Catherine, who becomes enthralled with her husband’s naughty new contraption. See this play with all the twists and turns opening night! Tickets are available via The Colonial Players’ site: http://tickets.thecolonialplayers.org.

Ram’s Head brings the famous and fantastically entertaining Steve Tyrell to their downtown venue this week. Tyrell, a man of jazz and pop, performs on Saturday, May 4. The show begins at 8 p.m. and costs $39.50. Obtain your ticket on http://tickets.ramsheadonstage.com.

On the artsy side of things, there is an eclectic art exhibit housed at St. John’s College from now until May 12. The show is termed the “Community Art Exhibition” and features a diversity of styles of art made, sculpted, and painted by the public. Explore the talent of your area in perusing the exhibit. Go to http://www.stjohnscollege.edu/events to learn more.

This Sunday, Schooner Woodwind hosts the first of their specialty cruises for the season. The cruise takes passengers to a few area lighthouses for picture-taking and educating on their beauty and role in Annapolis’s history. The tour begins at 10:30 a.m. and lasts until 2:30 p.m. The price for adults is $89 and for children, the cost is $56. Look to http://www.schoonerwoodwind.com.

Annapolis Green

Captain Avery Museum, located in Shady Side, needs your help in retaining its green image. Join the beloved Annapolis-area staple to decorative and native plants on the grounds. This is a volunteer opportunity. The museum requests you bring planting tools like a shovel and gloves. The planting starts at 9 a.m. Join them for as long as you feel compelled. Head to www.annapolisgreen.com to read more about this event.

Annapolis Families

Chesapeake Children’s Museum hosts a special event this Sunday, May 5 that puts kids in touch with their wild, imaginative side. “Dinosaur Day” allows kids and adults the opportunity to learn about the wild creatures that once roamed nearby areas. Founder of Dinosaur Park in Laurel, Dr. Peter Kranz will be facilitating the lecture with interesting visuals to engage the kids. In addition to the lecture, there will be hands-on activities post-discussion. The cost for this event is $6. Learn more about Dinosaur Day on http://www.theccm.org.

Annapolis History

The William Paca House provides another week of historically minded fun. This Tuesday, April 30, the Paca House hosts “The Paca Family and Their Pleasure Garden,” best described as a garden tour of the lovely mansion’s grounds. The Paca family treasured their garden, and this Tuesday, join horticulturist Mollie Ridout for a tour and lecture on how the Paca’s maintained and used their yard. This event is scheduled for two times: noon and 7 at night. The cost for most will be $10. Look to www.annapolis.org to provide you with more information.

Annapolis Entertainment

With another springy week underway, United States Naval Academy’s Music Department puts on a spring concert to commemorate the season and celebrate music. The genre of music is instrumental–pipes and drums. The concert takes place on Friday, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. The location is the USNA’s Mahan Hall.

Also from USNA’s Music Department, the midshipmen put on a classical recital worth seeing and definitely worth listening to. The Brigade’s talented musicians will perform at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 28. The concert takes place at the USNA Main Chapel. For more on these events, head to http://www.usna.edu/Music/index.html.

The Price, a performance with plot twists and interesting familial drama, continues this week. Bay Theatre puts on this one from now until May 19. Haven’t heard of it yet? The Price focuses on two brothers who meet again after decades of separation in an unlikely place. There are a range of emotions and the prospect of a reunited family involved. To find out about showtimes and ticket costs, head to www.baytheatre.org.

Ram’s Head brings a tribute band to their stage that is sure to please a range of generations. “Hotel California,” a song that seems to have remained significant even today, is the name of the band that salutes The Eagles. Join Ram’s Head in re-living the hype around The Eagles on Friday, April 26 at 8 p.m. The show costs $23.50. Look to http://tickets.ramsheadonstage.com for more information.

Filmmaker Sam Green is celebrated this Tuesday, April 23, at Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts. The venue will host an evening of films and documentaries by Green. His films cover a range of subjects, but most notably, Green created a film about a murder by the Hells Angels. Not only can you watch the films, but you can pose questions at the pre-film lecture. The screenings begin at 7 p.m. and cost $10 to see.

Also at Maryland Hall, indie rocker Aimee Mann performs with Ted Leo. Mann is known for her thoughtful lyrics and folky-rocker voice. The performance takes place on Thursday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. The cost of the show is $43 for the general public.

On Friday, April 26 at Maryland Hall, Defending the Caveman, a Broadway performance comes to the Annapolis stage. The comical yet didactic show benefits the Anne Arundel Conflict Resolution Center. Tickets cost $48. The performance begins at 8 p.m.

Lastly, Maryland Hall features a vocal competition put on by the Annapolis Opera. Listen to the contestants work their way from the semi-finals to the finals. The semi-finals take place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Finals are on Sunday at 3 p.m. Both of these performances are free and open to all. For more on these events at Maryland Hall, head to http://tickets.marylandhall.org.

This Saturday, April 27, marks the opening of Watermark Cruises for weekends until they pick up their daily schedule in the summer. Partake in a short or long tour around area waters. See the tour schedule on www.watermarkcruises.com.

Annapolis Green

‘Tis the season for getting outdoors and becoming more invested in the Earth. Learn about eco-friendly local businesses, practices, and what you can do to improve your go-green attitude at Green Drinks this Monday, April 22 at The Rockfish. The eco party begins at 5:30 p.m. and is free. There is a cash bar. See what it’s all about!

Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay hosts a two-day class that focuses on spirituality and becoming in tune with nature called “Deepening your Spirituality.” This class helps you discover the connection between the natural and spiritual world. Thursday is the date of the first class and Saturday rounds out the workshop. You must register.

Saturday, enjoy and participate in Global Youth Service Day in partnership with Save the Bay Day. Volunteer to help plant, rake, and make a difference in the area’s landscape. In addition to the volunteering, learn about issues with the Watershed–true motivation to help! Clean-up begins at 9 a.m. at Lake Waterford Park in Pasadena.

In the same vein as the Save the Day cleanup, Saturday marks Earth Day and thus, the Earth Day Festival at Quiet Waters Park (pictured above). Join the green festivities at the park with free admission from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can plant, enjoy nature walks, and learn about things in the park like the Butterfly Garden. For these green events, head to www.annapolisgreen.com to find out more.

Annapolis Families

Chesapeake Children’s Museum joins a springtime festival this Saturday, April 27, called Earth Day. This celebration is a twenty-year event that takes place at Quiet Waters Park. There will be fun information about the Earth, recycling, and programs that preserve the planet as well as music, food, and hand-on activities. The event is free and open to all from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Head to http://www.theccm.org to learn more.

Annapolis History

William Paca House at 186 Prince George Street frequently entertains with a fusion of history and modern-day fun. This Tuesday, April 23, the historic landmark continues this entertainment with “The End of a Conservation Journey: The Shaw/Chisholm/Faris Tall Case Clock.” This lecture tells the tale of three architects who crafted a special clock that’s now housed in the Paca House. There are two times scheduled for the lecture: noon and 7 p.m. The general public must pay $10. More information can be found at http://www.annapolis.org.

Annapolis Entertainment

USNA continues their springtime concert this week with a wind ensemble that’s part of the Annapolis Music Festival. The location is the USNA Chapel in Annapolis. The performance begins at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 19. Acquire tickets and more information on http://www.usna.edu/USNABand/events.htm.

Not to be outshined by the wind ensemble, the USNA Music Department teams up with Annapolis Symphony to put on Verdi: Requiem. This show, performed by the symphony and USNA’s Glee Club, takes place on Sunday, April 21, at 7:30 p.m. The Navy’s Alumni Hall hosts this event. For more on this event, head to http://www.usna.edu/Music/index.html.

This week, Navy stuns with an exciting sport rooted in tradition. USNA plays a croquet match against St. John’s College this Saturday, April 20 at 1 p.m. on the front lawn of the St. John’s College. You can bring picnic food, blankets, and partake in an old tradition. Learn more on www.stjohnscollege.edu/events.

It’s springtime on Maryland Avenue. Enjoy the Spring Fling on the popular downtown street that will be full of art, antique, fashion, and food vendors for the event. The event takes place on Sunday, April 21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is free and open to all. Go to www.marylandave.com to find out more.

As far as kid-friendly entertainment goes, few are as affordable and varied as Children’s Theatre of Annapolis. This week, the Annapolis venue continues their musical, The Little Mermaid, Jr. This whimsical tale closely follows the Walt Disney classic, but includes a few twists along the way. See local young stars carry out the plot. The show continues until Sunday, April 21. Catch the under-the-sea action before it’s gone! Head to http://www.childrenstheatreofannapolis.com to purchase tickets and read more about the event.

From kid-friendly to adult-friendly, Annapolis live entertainment is the way to go. Bay Theatre puts on a winner this week, entitled The Price. This play features family relationships and requires an air of mystery about it. Follow the plot of two estranged brothers who meet up again in an unlikely place. The play continues this week through mid-May. Head to http://www.baytheatre.org for additional information.

Speaking of adult fun, The Colonial Players once again provides their historically minded play, 1776, this week. Join the excitement centered around the founding fathers, seminal documents, and drama true of the time. Look to http://www.thecolonialplayers.org for tickets, info, and more.

At Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts, there are a few events this week worth repeating. On Wednesday, April 17, The Other Band performs bluegrass tunes. See this local Annapolitan group at 7:30 p.m. Live Arts Maryland teams up with Maryland Hall this Friday and Saturday for a show entitled “Light and Life.” This musical performance is ideal for youth, college-age students, and adults. The show begins on Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, the performance starts at 8 p.m. The Maryland Hall website includes more information about these events: http://tickets.marylandhall.org.

The Boatyard Bar and Grill puts on a marvelous seafood festival this weekend that marries the water with competition. Partake in and cheer on the competitors in the Spring Fishing Tournament this April 20. There are prizes to be won, music to be heard, and plenty more fun things to enjoy. Look to www.boatyardbarandgrill.com for more information.

Annapolis Green

Going green has never been so easy thanks to the accessible events and resources in Annapolis. This Wednesday, April 17, there is a bird educational event at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. There will be lectures, information, and valuable things to learn about the birds all around you. The event lasts from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

This weekend, you can enjoy the great outdoors in a different, outdoorsy way. Connect with this area’s beautiful landscape by walking a trail at the Bacon Ridge Natural Area in Crownsville. Enjoy observing birds, small animals, and walking in the wilderness.

On Saturday, the GreenScape, an annual local event, kicks off at various locations in the city. This is a volunteer opportunity that awards all who participate to plant and maintain foliage throughout the city. The city provides the planting materials needed. All you have to do is connect with your inner green thumb. A similar volunteer opportunity presents itself at the Captain Avery Museum in Shady Side. To help plant and keep the museum alluring, bring your green spirit, gloves, and a towel. This volunteer opportunity takes place on Saturday at 9 a.m.

Also on Saturday, there is a Earth Day Festival at Severna Park High School. You can learn about local green efforts and practices. There will be over 500 exhibits at the high school with information and plants for sale. You can also adopt animals at the festival. For more on any of these green events, you can learn more information on http://www.annapolisgreen.com.

Annapolis Families

At the Chesapeake Children’s Museum, the weekend brings animal awareness to area families. Learn about endangered species and some fascinating feats animals have performed. The cost is only $5 per child. Saturday and Sunday, the event lasts from 2 to 4 p.m. Head to http://www.theccm.org to learn more about this kid-friendly, animal-lovin’ fun.

Annapolis History

William Paca was somewhat of a local historical celebrity. Lucky for us, his memory is preserved at the William Paca House in downtown Annapolis. This Tuesday, April 16, partake in learning about reconstructing the bathhouse and hygiene that was foundational at the Paca House. There will be a lecture from a historical researcher too. The lecture is given at both noon and 7 p.m. The cost is $10 for the public.

On Sunday, April 21, historical figures speak on the relationship between Frederick Douglass and President Lincoln. The lecture takes place at the First Presbyterian Church on Duke of Gloucester Street. The cost is $25 per person. Learn about a friendship most history texts overlook from 6 to 7 p.m. For this event and the previous one, look to http://www.annapolis.org to see more.