www.mdstad.com - Press Room

When Talking Trash, Stadium Authority Leads League in Responsible Disposal

As the Ravens prepare for the beginning of another successful NFL season, so does the Maryland Stadium Authority in operating their roost. And, like the Ravens, MSA is going for an NFL title of sorts.

According to Jeff Provenzano, Director of Football Operations, MSA partnered with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Stadium Managers Association in a program called NFL Bragging Rights. All participating teams will maintain a spreadsheet account of recyclables according to category (cardboard, glass, plastic, metals, etc.) and a winner will be determined by the stats they achieve.
Without relying on draft picks and off-season trades, the MSA team has been implementing policies and applying resources to make M&T Bank Stadium and its grounds the greenest facility in the league. And, like the team, MSA is a preseason favorite because of its ongoing commitment to excellence.

2009 was a banner year for recycling at M&T. The target was 100 tons total, averaging at least 8 tons a game. The season’s total of 111 tons exceeded the annual goal, even with the December blizzard reducing operations on the last game of the season which reduced the average to 7.5 tons per game.
Since 2006, when the program was revamped, the yearly totals have increased by 300%.
The ambitious goal for this year is 200 tons total, averaging 12 tons per regular season game. Beginning with the August 28th preseason outing against the Giants, the tailgate lots will be fitted for recycling -- with an anticipated 3-6 tons to be gathered there.

More than game day trash is recycled at M&T. Cooking grease, scrap steel (an average of 20 tons annually,) electronic equipment, batteries and light bulbs are all responsibly reused.
M&T Bank Stadium has been a “zero landfill facility” since 2007. What can’’t be recycled is carted to the nearby Resco plant and converted to steam energy.

Other environmental improvements have taken place in recent years. By changing operations, MSA has managed to reduce water usage by 40 - 47% from 2005. Annual water consumption has been reduced from 15 million gallons to 8-9 million.

Since 2005 MSA has reduced electricity usage by 2 million kWh. A major savings came with installation of new high definition video boards. The old boards required four 24-ton air conditioning units in each end zone to keep them operational. The new energy-efficient system does not need climate control, greatly reducing energy consumption on game day. All screen and electrical components of the old video boards were recycled.

On the north end of Camden Yards, Oriole Park has consistently increased recycled tonnage over the past three years. In 2008, one ton of refuse was recycled for every 25,000 fans. In 2009, those numbers increased to one ton for every 22,000 fans, with 68 total tons recycled.

In 2010, the amount took a dramatic leap to one ton per 16,000 fans, with nearly 100 tons projected for the season. In 2009, the list of acceptable recyclables was expanded to include cans, bottles, cups, plastic tubs for cotton candy, and clean paperboard trays. These all contribute to the increased tonnage. In 2010, Oriole Park is on pace to exceed last year’s recycling tonnage by 30%.

Recycling comes from three major sources –– materials collected after the game in the seating bowl, those generated from recycling containers located throughout the stadium concourse, and those generated by concessionaires.

In addition to the game day recycling, Oriole Park at Camden Yards recycles the following:
• Pallets
• Fluorescent lights
• Cardboard boxes from shipments
• White paper from offices
• Newspaper, books and magazines
• Auto batteries
• Electronics
• Grease

“The Maryland Stadium Authority is committed to leading by example in implementing Governor O’Malley’s ambitious environmental goals,” said John Morton, III, Chairman. “We regard our stewardship as an opportunity to showcase these efforts and educate the millions who visit each year to share this commitment to recycling and resource conservation.”

MSA, Teammates Battle Elements in Hometown Win

For Immediate Release, December 22,2009Contact: Michael Frenz, (410) 333-1560 In addition to managing and maintaining some of the finest sports facilities in the country, the Maryland Stadium Authority is prepared to respond to any emergency, doing whatever necessary for fans to access the stadiums and enjoy the game. This commitment was demonstrated the weekend of December 18-20, when the stadium complex was ready for the Ravens home game after one of the most intense snowstorms in city history. “Preparation and ongoing communication were crucial to this successful effort,” said Executive Director Michael Frenz. “Starting Thursday, our Director of Football Operations, Jeff Provenzano, and Director of Security and Public Safety, Jim Slusser, met regularly with Roy Sommerhof, Ravens' vice president of stadium operations, to cover every contingency, from providing transportation to the stadium to clearing away tons of snow to maintaining safe pedestrian access.” Stadium Authority Buildings and Grounds personnel, as well as the HVAC and electrical shops, assisted in all operations. Once in place Friday, they stayed onsite until after the game Sunday, working with Day and Sons, the contractor responsible for pretreatment of paved surfaces and snow removal. All MSA lots were cleared before the scheduled opening time of 11:15 AM, Sunday. When plowing was completed, salt was applied to all of the lots and sidewalks to prevent slip and falls. Maryland Department of Corrections provided 128 inmates and officers who worked in the seating bowl from early Saturday until after the snow stopped late that night. They were replaced by 60 more inmates who shoveled until noon. MSA security personnel Walt Schmidbauer, Greg Cook and Walt Dacuycuy worked with the corrections officers and inmates. The Ravens provided gloves, socks, cold weather coats and a rest area for breaks. “Removing 18 to 22 inches of snow in a 72,000 capacity stadium during a blizzard is a significant challenge,” Jim Slusser said. “The Department of Corrections was not required to take this on, but with commitment to the community and team spirit, they put forth a great effort.” Aramark, the stadium caterer, provided 15,000 hot dogs and 400 dozen donuts --plus coffee, hot chocolate and chicken broth -- to the work force during their breaks. “I could not be more proud of this group,” said Jeff Provenzano. “They knew what was required to play football and maintain a safe perimeter, and they did it.” “This was a three day ordeal, much of it spent in the elements” Provenzano continued. “Their efforts resulted in success, on and off the field.” Stadium Authority officials regularly work with state and local transportation officials, and their joint efforts made public access to the complex possible. The Baltimore City Department of Transportation ensured that routes around the stadium were open. The Baltimore-Washington Parkway was maintained throughout the entire blizzard. Maryland Transportation Authority highway crews and staff kept Interstate 395, 695 and 95 open through the storm. Maryland Department of Transportation also deserves credit for plowing the runway at BWI that allowed the Chicago Bears to arrive safely. The following is a list of staff, contractors and partners who stepped up to help Maryland Stadium Authority and the Ravens provide a safe, successful Sunday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium: Assistant Operations Manager Bart Shifler; Jimmy Bell, John Brooks, Mike Andryzcek, Chip Linsebigler, James Archer, Rick Pack, Gilbert Cooper and Davon Fink, who worked Friday through Sunday night. CHIMESStaffing SpecialistUNISOURCE CONTRACTINGNEXT DAY STAFFINGPOTTS AND CALLAHANCLASSIC LAWN AND LANDSCAPINGLMC LANDSCAPINGWhiting and TurnerDay and Son ContractingAramarkCentral ParkingSafe ManagementDepartment of CorrectionsBaltimore office of Emergency Management Oriole Park facilities staff who volunteered for the team: Alonzo AndrewsVola LintonMary BuckinghamJohn MckinneyBill SchierHugh McClurkin Matt Kastel Audio visual professionals Vince Steier and Al Ringham spent Saturday night at the stadium to make sure the systems were all operational. In all, about 1,750 people , many of whom slept on the floors of the club level, made this remarkable feat possible. “Just like the action on the field, these operations require teamwork,” Stadium Authority Chairman John Morton concluded. “This weekend, millions of spectators and viewers witnessed the professionalism and resourcefulness of Stadium Authority employees and their teammates. They made it possible for fans and players at M&T Bank Stadium to have a safe and enjoyable experience.”

2010, 2011 NCAA Lacrosse National Championships Awarded to Baltimore

For Immediate Release
Contact: Michael Frenz, Maryland Stadium Authority (410) 333-1560
Terry Hasseltine, Director of Sports Marketing (410) 767-3373

The National Collegiate Athletic Association announced February 6, 2009 that the Lacrosse National Championships, a three day event held over Memorial Day Weekend, will return to M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore for 2010 and 2011.

“We are elated the NCAA Lacrosse National Championships will be returning to Maryland,” said Governor Martin O’Malley of the announcement. “Our state is recognized nationally as the cradle of lacrosse with its storied history, perennial powerhouse teams and loyal fan base. Attendance in Baltimore set records each of three years this event was held here previously. The proximity of M&T Bank Stadium to downtown and the Inner Harbor will provide an enjoyable experience for the tens of thousands who come here over Memorial Day weekend in 2010 and 2011.”

The Baltimore bid was submitted by the Baltimore Ravens, with a consortium of four local NCAA members -- Johns Hopkins, Towson, Loyola and UMBC – as host schools. The City of Baltimore, Maryland Stadium Authority and Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development also partnered with the Ravens for services and support necessary for staging the event. The newly created Office of Sports Marketing, and its director, Terry Hasseltine, played a major part in coordinating the successful effort.

“This is the first example of the synergy we’ve created with the Office of Sports Marketing,” commented John Morton, Chairman of the Maryland Stadium Authority. “When MSA partnered with Department of Business and Economic Development on this initiative, it was to coordinate the resources and facilities necessary to attract major sports events and the revenue they generate to Maryland.”

“MSA’s and the Office of Sports Marketing’s efforts in the NCAA bid proves that when we support our partners, we win.” Morton added. ““Maryland is here to play.”

Director of Sports marketing Terry Hasseltine echoed his confidence in the success of the new initiative. “The State of Maryland is proud to have worked with our partners in Baltimore City and the Ravens organization to aggressively go after these premier sporting events and bring the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse National Championships back to Maryland,” Hasseltine said. “Winning this bid has given our new statewide Sports Marketing Initiative a significant boost, and we look forward to once again working with event organizers and making the 2010 and 2011 NCAA Championships a success.”

Since hosting the first tournaments held in an NFL stadium in 2003-2004, Baltimore has been the site one additional time, in 2007. Other events were held in Philadelphia, 2005-2006, and most recently in Foxboro, where it will also occur in 2009.

Bidding for this popular series, which includes the championships for Division I, II, and III Men’s Lacrosse, has been spirited. In addition to Baltimore, the finalists included the Meadowlands in New Jersey and Foxboro Massachusetts.

Baltimore enjoys a number of advantages in attracting the NCAA tournament. Maryland is a lacrosse epicenter, where it is recognized as the state team sport. Baltimore houses the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and US Lacrosse, the sport’s governing body. Lacrosse is popular in collegiate, prep, and rec leagues throughout the state and enjoys an enthusiastic fan base. Maryland schools are also consistent contenders in all NCAA divisions.

The location of the stadium is also a favorable factor, with access to interstate highways a light rail system that connects the airport and Amtrak stations. Numerous hotels and restaurants are nearby and along the airport corridor.

The weekend event is very family and youth oriented. Because the stadium complex is within walking distance of the Inner Harbor and downtown Baltimore, museums and other attractions offer a multitude of activities for visitors between games.

Baltimore enjoys an extensive sports network which provides volunteers and ticket sales support through local lacrosse leagues, city boosters, and corporate sponsors. These are all crucial to making the event a success.

“Being awarded the bid to host the NCAA Lacrosse championships represents a source of civic pride and an opportunity to showcase our city, region, and state,” observed Donald Fry, chairman of the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Commission.

“It is critically important that the business and civic community demonstrate its commitment to attracting major sporting attractions through the purchase of tickets and sponsorships. The Camden Yards Sports & Entertainment Commission will work with our partners to achieve attendance and sponsorship levels that meet or exceed expectations and result in a first class NCAA championship weekend.”

Since the practice of holding the championship series in non-collegiate facilities began in 2003, Baltimore has set attendance records each time it hosted.

STADIUM AUTHORITY RELEASES OCEAN CITY CONVENTION CENTER STUDY

December 9, 2008

Contact: David Raith, Maryland Stadium Authority
(410) 333-1560
Mike Noah, Town of Ocean City
(410) 7289-8311

The Maryland Stadium Authority and the Town of Ocean City released a feasibility study for a proposed expansion of the Ocean City Convention Center at a work session of the City Council on December 9, 2008. The study, prepared by Crossroads Consulting Services and HOK Venue, evaluated the proposed expansion with a market analysis, provided cost estimates for several building options, and made recommendations for a short range plan to address the facility’s most pressing needs.

The study also considered the market for an auditorium or performing arts facility at the convention center complex.

“The Maryland Stadium Authority is again happy to work with the Town of Ocean City on their Convention Center plans, “ MSA Chairman John Morton stated. “This feasibility study provides a development strategy for long range expansion options, and also recommends capital improvements for more immediate enhancements.”

The study confirmed that the original expansion of the convention center in 1997 fulfilled its mission to extend the resort town’s season by attracting year round visitors while serving the local community. Of the estimated 110 events held annually in the facility, 35 - 40 are conventions and trade shows, comprising the largest portion of attendance.

Based on many factors, the study recommends a moderate expansion and remodeling to the convention center to modernize audio-visual and technical amenities, provide more function space to accommodate multiple events, increase prime exhibit space now limited by obstructions in Exhibit Hall C, and building a parking garage to replace lost surface space.

Distance from the airport, lack of an onsite hotel, and the number of regional residents participating in events are all factors generating more drive-in attendees. Parking at the existing facility is currently a challenge, and should be addressed in any expansion.

While the convention center attracts events that draw from outside Maryland, its current size is cited as a significant constraint by many other meeting planners and event organizers. The existing facility does not compare favorably with other comparable facilities in available exhibit space, and the study suggests that if improvements do not take place, its utilization will be limited to state and local activities.

A survey of this market determined that more than 80% would consider hosting their events at an expanded, modernized convention center. Survey respondents indicated that these attendees would be likely to extend their stay in Ocean City for one to three days beyond the length of the event, creating greater economic impact for the hospitality industry.

Based on their research, the consultants recommend that an increase of approximately 50,000 square feet of exhibit space would make the facility more attractive to convention, trade show, meeting and sporting events. A new garage with 1,000 - 1,500 spaces would be needed due to the loss of surface parking.

The site analysis and cost estimate evaluated four potential expansion options which, if implemented, could increase the use of the facility to 177 - 195 events per year.. Direct spending generated by an expanded convention center is estimated to range from $164.4 - $187.8 million in 2011 dollars. Total spending is estimated at $230.2 - $252.8 million annually in 2011 dollars, creating an additional 880-1320 total full-time equivalent jobs.

Tax revenues are estimated to increase by approximately $4 - $6 million annually.

The expansion is estimated to cost $60 - $75 million. In summarizing their development strategy, the consultants acknowledge that this expansion, although viable from a market perspective, may not be achievable at this time given current economic conditions. Therefore, after discussions with convention center management, they delivered some short term recommendations to enhance utilization and minimize expenses prior to implementing expansion plans. These include:

• continuing to provide the highest standards of customer service for the existing market
• improving energy efficiency to limit rising costs of energy consumption
• modifying Hall C and the western outdoor deck
• upgrading technical amenities, such as wireless access
• developing an on-site parking garage to meet the need of current users, and generate revenue.

As part of the study, Crossroads and HOK Venue were asked by the Town of Ocean City to analyze the feasibility of a performing arts center, seating between 1,000 and 2,000, either attached to or separate from the existing facility.

Based on the market analysis, they determined that a multi-purpose auditorium with seating capacity of 1,000 - 1,300 would be more complementary to the convention center than a dedicated performing arts center. It would also be more appropriate for the kind of event related activities associated with convention center uses. The versatility of such a facility would give Ocean City a competitive edge over similar destinations.

"This study will serve as the blueprint for Ocean City as we plan for the continued future success of the Roland E. Powell Convention Center,” said City Engineer Terence McGean. “The cooperation and assistance from the Maryland Stadium Authority was instrumental in guiding us through the study process."

Ocean City Tourism and Community Relations Director Mike Noah added his thoughts on the study findings and the decisions facing city officials.

"If the recommendation is not to fully expand at this time, we need to update the facility to continue to make it competitive," Noah said.

Governor O'Malley Names New Chairman, Executive Director at Maryland Stadium Authority

November 7, 2008

John Morton III, a prominent national business and financial services director, has been selected by Governor Martin O’Malley to chair the Maryland Stadium Authority Board of Directors. Mr. Morton, a member of the board since July, 2008, succeeds Frederick W. Puddester, who has been chairman since July, 2007. Mr. Puddester, who will remain on the Stadium Authority’s seven person board, resigned as Chairman in a letter to Governor O’Malley dated November 4th.

In his eighteen months as Chairman, Mr. Puddester, a one-time state budget director who is currently Senior Associate Dean for Finance and Administration of the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences at Johns Hopkins University, initiated a number of improvements to the facilities managed by the agency, including a new state of the art audio visual system for Oriole Park and a five year capital plan for further upgrades of the Camden Yards complex. During his tenure, he also implemented a number of policy and management changes, such as the adoption of the “living wage” standard for day workers employed at the complex, and the development of a statewide sports marking initiative in conjunction with the Department of Business and Economic Development.

In his letter to the Governor, Mr. Puddester indicated his appreciation for the “phenomenal group” of MSA board members, as well as his commitment to continuing his service on the volunteer commission.

In selecting John Morton, III to succeed him, Governor O’Malley turned to a longtime activist with an extensive background in financial management. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy and a director of the USNA Athletic and Scholarship Programs, Mr. Morton has been CEO and President of three major financial institutions, is currently a board member on four corporations, and a leader in business, professional, educational and civic organizations.

From 1996 to 2006, Mr. Morton served in various capacities with the Bank of America/NationsBank, including his role as President of the Mid-Atlantic Region from 1997 to 2001, and as President of Premier Bank from 2001 to 2005.

Prior to his service with Bank of America, Mr. Morton was Chairman, CEO and President of the Boatmen's National Bank of St. Louis, Missouri, the Farm and Home Financial Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri and with the Perpetual Financial Corporation of McLean, Virginia.

Mr. Morton also has served as Chairman of the Greater Baltimore Committee, as Director of the University of Maryland College Park Foundation, and as Committee Chairman of the effort to bring the 2012 Olympics to the Washington/Baltimore region.

Now retired and living in Annapolis, Mr. Morton looks forward to playing an active role as chairman of the agency in the management of the facilities and development of future projects.

“I deeply appreciate the opportunity Governor O’Malley is giving me to serve the citizens of Maryland at the Stadium Authority,” Mr. Morton said upon his appointment. “I am honored to follow Fred Puddester, who set a high bar as Chairman.”

In outlining his vision for the agency’s future, Mr. Morton cited his commitment to maintain the high standards of the internationally recognized “crown jewels” – the Camden Yards sports complex. He also intends to continue the agency’s practice of assisting local governments throughout the state evaluate potential projects, and to increase the use of existing facilities for events and activities enjoyed by all Marylanders.

“Nothing brings people together with a sense of pride and community like sports events,” he noted. “I want to continue to support the teams and events we already enjoy here, and explore additional ways for our citizens to experience the wonderful facilities in our region and our state.”

In making the announcements, Governor O’Malley said “I want to thank Fred Puddester for serving as Chair of the Maryland Stadium Authority Board.”

“Fred did a great job on behalf of the people of Maryland, “ he continued. “Fred worked to resolve some long-standing issues at MSA, including providing a living wage to the day workers at Maryland stadiums and working with the Baltimore Orioles to deliver a new state of the art scoreboard and information system at Camden Yards in time for the 2007 season.”

On the recommendation of both Chairman Puddester and incoming Chairman Morton, Governor O’Malley also announced the appointment of a new Executive Director.

Michael J. Frenz, Chief Operating Officer of the federally owned insurer Ginnie Mae. Mr. Frenz, a graduate of Yale University with an MBA from Syracuse University, and is the holder of a CFA charter. Responsible for the first strategic plan in the history of Ginnie Mae, Mr. Frenz has held senior positions with the government insurer since 2002. Prior to joining the agency in Washington, he held a community housing position at the Department of Housing and Urban Development in Salt Lake City, where he worked on media housing for the 2002 Winter Olympics, and redeveloping a Brownsfield site at the city’s gateway into $300 million mixed use development. Before joining HUD, Mr. Frenz worked for a real estate developer and as a portfolio manager in his hometown of Syracuse, New York.

“I am very pleased to have been chosen to work with the MSA board and its dedicated employees,” Mr. Frenz stated. “I look forward to serving the citizens of Maryland in safeguarding and maximizing the value of the state’s athletic and entertainment facilities.”

Regarding the new appointments, Governor O’Malley said “I look forward to continuing to work with Fred on the Board, and incoming Chair, John Morton. Mr. Morton has an extensive background in financial management and will continue to move the Stadium Authority forward.”

“I also want to welcome incoming Executive Director Michael Frenz to the Maryland Stadium Authority,” the Governor added.

In a related development, Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon appointed her Chief of Staff, Demaune Millard, as the City’s representative on the Maryland Stadium Authority Board.

Mr. Millard will fill the unexpired term of Thomas Corey, who recently left the city government to return to the private sector.

Stadium Authority Releases Market Study for Possible Prince George's Soccer Facility

September 23, 2008
Contact: Gary McGuigan, Project Executive
Maryland Stadium Authority
(410) 333-1560

Contact: John Erzen
Prince George’s County Press Information Officer
(301) 952-2657 or (240) 508-4491
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Maryland Stadium Authority has released the market and economic study to determine the benefits of locating a soccer stadium for DC United in Prince George’s County.

The study was commissioned at the request of Prince George’s County after the team approached them about the possibility of relocating there. DC United has used RFK Stadium, constructed in 1961 to accommodate professional baseball and football, since its inception in 1996. DC United, at the urging of Major League Soccer, is determined to develop a new soccer-specific stadium consistent with standards established by other teams in the league. The $75,000 study, conducted by Crossroads Consulting Services, was authorized by the Maryland General Assembly to determine the extent that Prince George’s County and the State of Maryland would benefit from locating the team there. The study is not site-specific.

The study determined that soccer is an evolving sport, boosted in recent years by television contracts, major sponsorships, and investment in soccer-specific stadiums around the country that have hosted international events. Factors cited for the success of a soccer-specific facility in Prince George’s county include the existing loyal fan base, the ethnic diversity and other demographic characteristics present in successful franchise bases, and access via mass transit and highways. These are some of the same factors that make Prince George’s County attractive for other uses of the facility, such as concerts and festivals.

A possible concern expressed after an analysis of other facilities is that a new stadium could compete against existing Maryland venues for events, sponsors, and suite leases.

Other attractions in the area, such as Six Flags and the new National Harbor, plus proximity to airports and hotel availability, would make a stadium in Prince George’s County a contender for hosting national and international tournaments. The size and layout of such a stadium would also be compatible for lacrosse, which enjoys great popularity in the Mid-Atlantic region.

GBC's Donald C. Fry Selected to Head Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Commission

Maryland Stadium Authority Chairman Frederick W. Puddester elevated Donald C. Fry, longtime commission member and President and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee, as the new chairman of the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Commission. Fry will replace Paul A. Tiburzi, who recently stepped down.

In accepting Tiburzi’s resignation, Puddester expressed his thanks and noted "Paul's enthusiasm for sports is legendary, and his efforts to promote Baltimore and Camden Yards unparalleled. I have benefitted greatly from his advice over the past year, and the success of events at the complex over the last year is due in large measure to his efforts."

In appointing Fry as his successor, Puddester cited his tireless support of the Baltimore region, great love of sports, and belief in sporting events and activities as an economic catalyst.

"Don has been supportive of Camden Yards since his days in the legislature," noted Puddester, the one time Maryland budget director. "He understands the economic impact of world class events held at our stadium complex."

Puddester also addressed the ongoing role of the commission in his letter to members, notifying them of Fry’s appointment.

"The work of the Commission continues," he wrote. "We have Navy-Norte Dame and the Baltimore Marathon this fall, and lacrosse tournaments and Dew Tour next spring. We need continued support to help promote these, and hopefully other, events at Camden Yards."

The Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment commission consists of State and City economic development officials, members of the hospitality, media, and corporate sectors, and representatives of the Orioles, Ravens and Stadium Authority.

Their mission is to promote community, media, and corporate support for activities at the Complex through ticket sales and event sponsorships.

"I am honored to have been asked to chair the Camden Yards Sports and Entertainment Commission, " Fry said in accepting the chairmanship. "Considerable strides have been made to promote the Camden Yards facilities under the leadership of Fred Puddester and Paul Tiburzi."

"I look forward to working with the Commission to bring world class sports and entertainment activities to Baltimore and to realize the true potential of Camden Yards and the economic impact that it can generate for the citizens of the city, region and state."

Maryland Stadium Authority Unveils National Sailing Hall of Fame Study

December 10, 2007

Contact: Frederick W. Puddester, or

Jan Hardesty, (410) 333-1560

The Maryland Stadium Authority has released the feasibility study for a permanent “National Sailing Hall of Fame,” envisioned for the Annapolis City Dock near the United States Naval Academy.

The role of the Stadium Authority, which has coordinated the development of public use facilities throughout Maryland for the past twenty years, is limited to studying the scope of the project, evaluating the existing state property and determining how the facility can best be structured.

Efforts to establish and finance such an attraction began two years ago with the formation of a non-profit. National Sailing Hall of Fame and Museum, Inc. includes sailing enthusiasts, community leaders, local maritime business interests, and ESPN commentator and sailing great Gary Jobson. Their goal is to promote U.S. sailing achievements, educate the public about the sport in “America’s Sailing Capital,” and preserve America’s sailing legacy.

In December 2005, NSHOF signed a memorandum of understanding with the Department of Natural Resources and the City of Annapolis to locate the museum complex on state property at the end of Prince George Street. In August, 2006, the Maryland Stadium Authority was asked to perform a feasibility study evaluating the National Sailing Hall of Fame as an appropriate fit for the property based on site suitability, engineering, economic impact, preliminary programmatic and design requirements.

In requesting the Stadium Authority’s participation with the Department of Natural Resources and the City of Annapolis, National Sailing Hall of Fame president Dick Franyo said “Your experience with complicated economic development projects such as this will provide the team with a valuable resource and roadmap to further implementation.”

MSA contracted a multi-disciplinary team led by RCG Architects. The team included Lord Cultural Resources, who evaluated exhibit content, Sage Policy Group, who provided the economic study, and various civil and structural engineers, surveyors and environmental engineers who studied the site and its surrounds.

The team met with a long list of stakeholders, including the Maryland Historical Trust, United States Naval Academy, Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Conference and Visitors Bureau, state and local elected officials, and various community and business groups.

The study determined the National Sailing Hall of Fame at the Department of Natural Resources site on City Dock is a feasible venture, can leverage additional tourism, and enhance downtown Annapolis. The vision of the project fits well with the waterfront location and the maritime history of the City of Annapolis.

The study recommends that the board continue working with the Maryland Historic Trust and the City of Annapolis for guidance in design and scope of the building. It also suggests they continue meetings with community and business groups to keep them informed and gain the support necessary to secure funding for the design phase.

The study is posted on the Maryland Stadium Authority website on this page:

http://www.mdstad.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=67&Itemid=110

Volley and Thunder!! Baltimore Musters Heavy Artillery for Army-Navy Celebration

November 28, 2007

Football games at the US Naval Academy and US Military Academy are known for their pageantry and tradition. It is customary at both Annapolis and West Point to fire vintage cannons when the home team scores. Like march-ons, fly-overs and push-ups, the thundering volleys are part of what makes football at the military academies a memorable experience.

Alas, the bowl construction of M&T Bank Stadium makes it impossible to accommodate cannons. Not only is sideline space very limited, but the blast would resonate in the stands like a sonic boom.

So to carry out the tradition, and alert greater Baltimore to the gridiron glories taking place at M&T, the Maryland Stadium Authority has recruited some equally storied local artillery (and their very partisan gunnery crews) to step in and provide sound effects for the citywide Army-Navy celebration.

When Navy scores on Saturday, the cannon on the foredeck of the USS Constellation, berthed at the Inner Harbor, will fire.

The Constellation has a special place in Naval Academy history. For 22 years, during the late 19^th century, the tall ship served as a training vessel for midshipmen in Annapolis. Today, the living museum is one of the most popular attractions in Baltimore.

When Army scores, the garrison at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine will alert the harbor, much as they did when the British came calling during the War of 1812. It was the gallant defense of Fort McHenry during a 25-hour British bombardment in September 1814 that inspired Francis Scott Key to pen "The Star-Spangled Banner." It was designated as the only national monument and historic shrine in the country in 1939.

MSA Urges"Game Plan" For December 1st Army-Navy Classic at M&T Bank Stadium

BALTIMORE, MD – In anticipation of heavy traffic in Baltimore City for the 108th Army-Navy

game at M&T Bank Stadium on December 1st, the Maryland Stadium Authority is asking all fans

attending the game to arrive early and have a plan for getting to the stadium prior to

leaving for the event. A crowd of over 71,000 is expected. Many are unfamiliar with the

streets and parking facilities, which could lead to increased congestion around the stadium.

A guide entitled “What is your Game Plan? Getting to M&T Bank Stadium” has been distributed

to all ticket purchasers by the academies and the Baltimore Ravens. All ticket holders are

urged to read the guide carefully to understand all available transportation and parking

options and make their plans in advance. The guide outlines public transportation options,

driving directions, downtown parking locations and even tips for walking to the game.

This information, and links to public transportation locations and schedules, has been

posted on www.baltimoreravens.com. This can be accessed, along with other Army-Navy

information, from the Stadium Authority homepage (“What’s Happening at Camden Yards”) at