FYI: Federal Hill Main Street Is Here To Stay!

The Baltimore Sun reported that the city's budget shortfall may result in Federal Hill Main Street's "graduation" from the city's Main Street program. This consideration is made in large part because of Federal Hill Main Street's financial stability and award-winning neighborhood initiatives. Despite this potential cut in city funding, Federal Hill Main Street is stronger than ever and remains committed to support the Federal Hill community.

The 2010 street festivals will go on as planned along with other special events and activities designed to promote and strengthen our local businesses and neighborhood. We look forward to working with our strong network of volunteers to help us raise funds to enable us to remain an active part of historic Federal Hill for a long time.

Don't miss the Spring Block Party on April 25, 11 am to 7 pm!

Bands Announced for Spring Block Party, April 25

Federal Hill's annual Spring Block Party is just a month away: Sunday, April 25, from 11 am to 7 pm. It's our first street festival of the year on E. Cross Street along the south side of the historic Cross Street Market.

In addition to great food & drink and arts & crafts, we have a lot of music lined up. The bands playing this year are: Psycho Killers, Pasadena, Nelly's Echo, Blue Miracle, The Reserves, Stones Throw, The Lombards, Bottom's Up, Willie's Light, and the School of Rock All Stars.

For more info, call 410-727-4500.

Food Network "Throwdown" Challenges Federal Hill's Favorite Pie Maker

On Tuesday, March 9, what started as a taping for a special Food Network segment featuring Rodney Henry (above, in hat) from Dangerously Delicious Pies (1036 Light St.), quickly turned into something much more … a throwdown! While Rodney captivated the audience at Luckie’s Tavern (10 Market Pl.) rockin’ out on his guitar and answering questions from the crowd, chef and well-known Food Network personality Bobby Flay was in hiding, waiting to make a special appearance.

Appearing from out of nowhere, Flay challenged Rodney to a “throwdown.” The dish at hand? Quiche! That’s right, Bobby and Rodney went head-to-head in a quiche competition. Rodney made his savory Cowboy Quiche, filled with bacon, ham, potatoes, jalapenos and various cheeses. Bobby’s quiche featured plenty of jalapenos, chorizo sausage and goat cheese, finished with a dollop of pesto on top.

Two judges were picked from Baltimore: Chef Cindy Wolf and a Baltimore firefighter. Although Bobby technically went home the winner, it’s safe to say that Rodney won over the city of Baltimore with both his sweet and savory pies and quiches.

Several Federal Hill residents were on hand for the action, including Main Street volunteer Erin Hopkins and Board member Cathy Strodel. "It was lots of fun and Rodney was great," said Strodel.

“Throwdown with Bobby Flay” airs on Wednesday nights at 9pm on the Food Network. Tune in each week to see Bobby challenge the best of the best when it comes to unique and popular dishes from around the country. -- Story by Courtney Luxon, photo by Erin Hopkins

New Issue of "Main Street News" Is Out

The March-April 2010 issue of Federal Hill Main Street News is full of interesting items about our business district. Check it out!

Print issues are available at the Main Street office (42 E. Cross St.), Cross Street Market, Spoons, and businesses throughout the commercial district. Pick one up today.

Welcome These New Federal Hill Businesses ...

The Rowhouse Grille (1400 Light St.) is housed in a beautifully renovated building and features an attractive bar and dining room. Coming soon: a full kitchen to allow an expanded menu, and opening of the upstairs dining room. Phone: 443-438-7289.

Ruben's Crepes (1043 S. Charles St.) features a wide variety of sweet and savory crepes with interesting ingredients. You may have seen Ruben at farmers' markets around town. Phone: 443-756-0667.

Save the Date: Spring Block Party, April 25

Spring is almost here and Federal Hill will be ready to celebrate on Sunday, April 25, with our first street festival of the year: Spring Block Party. The fun starts at 11am and runs till 7pm. Two stages on E. Cross St. with great music, food & drink, arts & crafts. Are you ready?

Would you like to volunteer this year? Give us a call: 410-727-4500.

New Federal Hill Main Street Board Elected

“The Federal Hill Main Street program continues to be a valuable asset to our business owners, their customers, and our neighborhoods,” said Patrick Mutch, newly elected President of the Board of Directors. The FHMS membership voted in some new faces and some familiar ones during the Feb. 3 annual meeting.

Returning Board members are:
Cathy Hammond (Secretary), Riverside area resident
Dave Rather, Mother’s Federal Hill Grill
Corey Robey (Treasurer), SunTrust Bank
Bill Romani (Vice President), Organization Committee chair
Mike Schollaert, Business Development Committee chair
Julie Tice, Design Committee chair

New Board members are:
Christine Cochrum, Apothecary Wellness
Crystal Ryan, Promotions Committee Chair
Cathy Strodel, Federal Hill South resident
Barry Werner, Scarborough Fair Bed & Breakfast

Also serving is former President AMY Grace, who agreed to stay on in an ex-officio capacity.