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Maryland Launches Green Travel Program

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As an extension of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing agenda, the Office of Tourism – in partnership with the Maryland Department of the Environment and the Maryland Tourism Council – is launching Maryland Green Travel. The new initiative will encourage environmentally-friendly practices throughout the state’s tourism industry and promote Maryland as a “green” destination to eco-minded travelers.

The initial stage of the program will create an online, self-certification application for the lodging sector that uses environmental guidelines adopted by the American Hotel and Lodging Association and the best practices of MDE’s Green Registry. A similar process will be implemented for restaurants, attractions and other tourism businesses during 2010.

“We believe Maryland Green Travel will prove to have great marketing value for individual properties and for the state’s tourism industry overall,” said Gov. O’Malley. “Most properties will see cost savings through waste reduction, recycling and innovative approaches to energy and water conservation.”

As a voluntary program, Maryland Green Travel will encourage certified properties to share their environmental practices in order to promote themselves as “green” properties and to encourage others to similarly reduce their impacts on Maryland’s environment.

The Office of Tourism has designed a “green” micro site on its visitmaryland.org web site that promotes the state’s eco-friendly businesses and attractions to environmentally-conscious consumers. The site, www.visitmaryland.org/green , will also include an online application and provide tips and resources on best practices for environmental management and leadership, waste reduction, energy and water conservation, and transportation.

“Increasingly, travelers are making travel plans based on sustainable practices that reduce our carbon footprint. Maryland Green Travel will promote those businesses that undergo self-certification, said Margot Amelia, executive director of the Maryland Office of Tourism. “We would like this program to be a collaborative effort. Industry participation is needed for the program to be beneficial for both the tourism industry and the environment.”

Properties that are part of the program will be identified as Maryland Green Travel partners on the official state tourism site, visitmaryland.org, which receives nearly 2 million unique visitors a year. Additionally, participating businesses will be certified for and promoted on the Maryland Department of the Environment’s Maryland Green Registry.

“I was greatly impressed with how quickly the Office of Tourism has ramped up the Maryland Green Travel program,” said Paul Bales, owner The Crossings at Casey Jones and Culinary Concepts, LLC. “The Office of Tourism truly has its finger on the pulse of Green initiatives. It was not surprising to hear that Maryland Green Travel program is way ahead on the implementation curve.”

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Sustainable Travel & Ecotourism in Maryland

Marylanders and Delawareans are recycling their bottles and paper. They're choosing locally produced foods and choosing "green" products.

But if you visit either state, you are going to have a difficult time recycling your own waste, as there are few recycling containers at local attractions and hotels.

There are a few steps visitors can take to protect the fragile Chesapeake Bay, ocean, beach, or mountain environments you've come to enjoy.

Most hotels now ask if you want your linens changed every day. Politely decline. (Now, you don't change your own sheets every day, do you?) Use them twice, and save gallons of hot water and energy.

Take the bus, the Light Rail, or the train. Public transportation is the way to go, especially in downtown Baltimore and at the beach. Baltimore's public buses are one option. Another is the new Charm City Circulator, which offers free transportation all around the business district. In fact, it's the cool way to go at the beach, both in Maryland and Delaware. All-day passes are available and inexpensive.

Bike paths are everywhere. If you want to leave your car alone for a day or two, you can take a bike ride from Cumberland to Washington. Or along the Allegheny Passage into Pennsylvania. Or at the beach between Lewes and Rehoboth. Or along the Underground Railroad Trail on the Eastern Shore. Even Baltimore has a bike path from north Baltimore into downtown.

The farm-to-table movement has made it into local restaurants. Look for local produce and seafood where you dine. Some shout it out loud in their menus. Others not so much.

For more ideas, go to www.ecodelaware.com. You'll find a list of earth-friendly ideas for where to travel, and when and how to tread lightly when you get there.

General Resources for Green Travel

In addition to the resources for Maryland and Delaware listed above, the following websites provide valuable wide-ranging information on sustainable travel. For a list of even more sustainable resources, as well as tips and explanations on how to travel greener, visit www.frommers.com/planning.

• Responsible Travel (www.responsibletravel.com) is a great source of sustainable travel ideas; the site is run by a spokesperson for ethical tourism in the travel industry. Sustainable Travel International (www.sustainabletravelinternational.org) promotes ethical tourism practices, and manages an extensive directory of sustainable properties and tour operators around the world.
• In the U.K., Tourism Concern (www.tourismconcern.org.uk) works to reduce social and environmental problems connected to tourism. The Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO; www.aito.co.uk) is a group of specialist operators leading the field in making holidays sustainable.
• In Canada, Green Living (www.greenlivingonline.com) offers extensive content on how to travel sustainably, including a travel and transport section and profiles of the best green shops and services in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
• In Australia, the national body that sets guidelines and standards for eco-tourism is Ecotourism Australia (www.ecotourism.org.au). The Green Directory (www.thegreendirectory.com.au), Green Pages (www.thegreenpages.com.au), and EcoDirectory (www.ecodirectory.com.au) offer sustainable travel tips and directories of green businesses.
• Carbonfund (www.carbonfund.org), TerraPass (www.terrapass.org), and CoolClimate (http://coolclimate.berkeley.edu) provide info on carbon-offsetting, or offsetting the levels of greenhouse gas emitted during flights.
• "Green" Hotels Association (www.greenhotels.com) recommends green-rated member hotels around the world that fulfill the company's stringent environmental requirements. Environmentally Friendly Hotels (www.environmentallyfriendlyhotels.com) offers more green accommodations ratings. The Hotel Association of Canada has a Green Key Eco-Rating Program (www.greenkeyglobal.com), which audits the environmental performance of Canadian hotels, motels, and resorts.
• Sustain Lane (www.sustainlane.com) lists sustainable eating and drinking choices around the U.S.; also visit www.eatwellguide.org for tips on eating sustainably in the U.S. and Canada.
• For information on animal-friendly issues throughout the world, visit Tread Lightly (www.treadlightly.org). For information about the ethics of swimming with dolphins, visit the Whale and Dolphin Conservation Society (www.wdcs.org).
• International Volunteer Programs Association ( IVPA; www.volunteerinternational.org) has a list of questions to help you determine the intentions and the nature of a volunteer program. For general info on volunteer travel, visit www.volunteerabroad.org and www.idealist.org .

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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A different shade of green

Annapolis Green brings together environmental movers and shakers, individuals and families, local businesses, government agencies and nonprofits to create a healthy, thriving community and planet.

Rather than focus on a single issue, we tackle a variety of challenges plaguing our communities, motivating people to stand up for nature with programs that connect, inform, inspire and incite meaningful change.

In addition to launching effective community initiatives, Annapolis Green consolidates the myriad efforts and resources of other local environmental organizations under one website, providing easy access to leading-edge knowledge, best practices, opportunities for hands-on experiences and events.

Annapolis Green was formed in 2006 by Lynne Forsman and Elvia Thompson, two friends struggling to grasp the big picture of local Green initiatives. Today, the organization serves as the hub of the city’s environmental movement, uniting and inspiring the Greater Annapolis community.

Hear our interview on the Eye on Annapolis Legacy Business Spotlight.

Don’t miss our 2020 Accomplishments video: “It’s a Rap!” on our YouTube channel.

A NEW CHAPTER OPENS FOR ANNAPOLIS GREEN

Annapolis Green Celebrates 15 Amazing Years!

Our mission is to connect, inform and inspire Annapolis area residents, organizations and businesses to care for the environment, live more responsibly and create a more beautiful and thriving community.

A greater annapolis community that shares responsibly for a healthy environment and works together for positive change..

Tilly Coyle, Executive Director

Tilly Coyle has worked at several notable Bay-serving organizations, such as the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network and the Oyster Recovery Partnership. She began her restoration career as an EPA Fellow at the Chesapeake Research Consortium in the Chesapeake Bay Program Office, facilitating communication among scientists and resource managers to support conservation initiatives. As an educator, Tilly led the development of the International Baccalaureate curriculum and World School authorization at two Anne Arundel County public school system schools, most recently, Monarch Academy Annapolis.

Tilly has a Master of Science Degree in Educational Psychology from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from James Madison University. She is an active member of several philanthropic organizations for causes close to her heart such as enriching the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities through the Joey Pizzano Memorial Fund and serving on the National Board of the Foundation for Community Betterment, which provides fundraising and support to Annapolis families confronted with sudden loss. She resides in Annapolis with her three sons and enjoys live music, skiing, and time on the water.

Lynne Forsman, Co-founder

Lynne Forsman’s background is in hospitality and tourism sales, and marketing. From Boston to San Francisco, Lynne has fine-tuned her knowledge with an iconic, established hotel company (Marriott), as well as with start-ups (Portman Hotel Group and By Design Meetings & Incentives). Once in Annapolis, she founded and operated Nautical Destinations, a small, women-owned group yacht charter and special event company for 13 years. With a keen interest in the Chesapeake Bay, Lynne initiated Green Drinks Annapolis and helped start and consult with the state’s Maryland Green Travel Program. Lynne has participated in many hospitality organizations including Meeting Planners International and the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association, as well as serving as Membership Director for the Green Meetings Industry Council. She served on the Board of Visit Annapolis for four years as its Marketing Committee Chair, then served as Membership Director for the Eastport Business Association, and is currently participating on the Four Rivers Heritage Coordinating Council.

Lynne is a constant volunteer with Downtown Annapolis Partnership and Maryland Avenue & State Circle Association. Lynne is recipient of the TWIN Award and Businesses for the Bay Environmental Excellence Award. She received her Bachelor of Science from Purdue University. Lynne lives “on the woods” in Davidsonville with her husband, Mark, and Golden Retriever, Adi. She is passionate about the Bay, the outdoors, sports—especially boating—and can be seen regularly jogging with a recycling bag.

Elvia Hernández Thompson, Interim Director Co-founder & President Emerita

Elvia Thompson served as President of Annapolis Green through 2021 and serves as advisor to the organization as needed. She has over 25 years of government experience at the Departments of Commerce and Defense, the Defense Intelligence Agency and NASA, as an analyst specializing in translating technical information into language understandable by the general public. A public relations professional, graphic artist and web designer, she ran a successful web and print design business, and she is author of numerous public interest articles, blogs and op-ed pieces. She produced and hosted a weekly, hour-long radio program in Annapolis, Living Green, from 2012 to 2017 and is an experienced public speaker comfortable on stage and before a camera. She has experience as a grant writer and grant administrator. Elvia has served on the boards of several organizations including the Annapolis Maritime Museum, the League of Conservation Voters Anne Arundel Chapter, the Back Creek Conservancy and the Spa Creek Conservancy. She is currently Board secretary of the Electric Vehicle Association of Greater DC and serves on the State of Maryland’s Zero Emission Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Council (ZEEVIC) and on the City of Annapolis’ Small Business Recovery Task Force. Elvia is a graduate of Leadership Anne Arundel and is a Master Watershed Steward. Her Master’s Degree is in Public Administration from Florida International University. Her undergraduate degree in Latin American Studies and Broadcast Journalism is from the University of Miami. Elvia is is recipient of the TWIN Award. She is a community activist who advocates for sustainable living with state and local governments, private organizations and the public. She is fluent in several languages and is an avid sailor.

Meet Our Board of Directors

Our location.

The Annapolis Green House was Annapolis’ first Green community resource center–and our offices! Designed as a gathering place for small business meetings, social receptions, group discussions, workshops and more, our former office was conveniently located on the corner of historic Maryland Avenue and State Circle (92 Maryland Avenue).

We also maintained  a pollinator garden, certified by Bee City USA , and a “foodscaping” garden where we demonstrated how to grow vegetables and herbs among the flowers. Read more .

We are currently searching for a charming, well-appointed location that offers a small meeting room and adjoining flexible-use space, preferable with a garden and workstations for individual use, and event space for up to 50 guests.

RECOGNITIONS & AWARDS

• Best Eco Business, What’s Up Media, 2019
• The Maryland General Assembly recognizing the 5 th  anniversary of Green Drinks, 2011
• Anne Arundel County Maryland, The County Council Citation, 2011
• City of Annapolis Proclamation commending  Annapolis Green’s 5 th  anniversary, 2011
• The Keith Campbell Foundation for the Environment Tribute to Women and INdustry (TWIN) Award presented to Lynne Forsman, 2010
• City of Annapolis Green Star Award for Green Networking, 2009
• Severn Riverkeeper: Severn River Champion for Public Outreach, 2009

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WELCOME TO THE Maryland Green Registry

Working toward a sustainable maryland.

The Maryland Green Registry is a free, voluntary program offering tips and resources to help businesses and other organizations set and meet their own goals on the path to sustainability. Collectively, Maryland Green Registry members have reported saving $106​ million annually through the proven, practical measures they have shared in their online member profiles.

Become a member in three easy steps!

• Go to the Join Here page to download the member profile form.
• Share information on at least five environmental practices in place at your facility (e.g. voluntary actions to reduce energy and water usage ​or reduce waste).
• Provide a measurable result related to at least  one of these practices.

 Collect your membership benefits:

• Increased visibility of your organization’s environmental efforts through the Maryland Green Registry website and use of the Maryland Green Registry logo.
• Free information and technical assistance on implementing new environmental best practices.
• Information on webinars and conferences to help you continue your greening efforts.
• Recognition and eligibility for the annual Maryland Green Registry Leadership Awards.

Whether you’re just getting started in greening your facility or are looking to push your environmental program to the next level, join the Maryland Green Registry to demonstrate your commitment to a strong, proactive approach to environmental management.

The Mar​yland Green Registry is...

• Free: There is no cost to join. Simply create a member profile sharing your environmental best practices.
• Flexible: You choose the activities that make the most sense for your organization.
• Inclusive: The Maryland Green Registry is open to organizations and facilities of all types and sizes in both owned and leased space.
• Interactive: Learn here​ what other Maryland Green Registry members are doing to reduce their environmental impacts and receive staff support on checklist measures.

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Maryland Department of the Environment

Governor moore celebrates earth day, signs executive order creating the maryland outdoor learning partnership.

Published: 4/22/2024 ANNAPOLIS, MD – Governor Wes Moore today visited the Maryland Department of the Environment’s headquarters in Baltimore in celebration of Earth Day. During the visit, the governor discussed the agency’s work to combat climate change, reduce pollution, and promote environmental stewardship. Governor Moore also participated in a ceremonial tree planting and signed an executive order establishing the Maryland Outdoor Learning Partnership—a new group of state agencies, educators, and nonprofits tasked with ensuring Maryland students have meaningful access to outdoor education about the environment, climate, and the natural world. “We owe it to the people of Maryland to keep our drinking water clean, keep our air safe, and preserve our natural treasures – from the Western Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay,” said Gov. Moore . “The hard-charging team at the Maryland Department of the Environment is helping us lead the way in environmental stewardship and climate action — while also creating good-paying jobs. Together, we will continue our work to build a Maryland that is cleaner, greener, and thriving.”

The Outdoor Learning Partnership, which will absorb the Project Green Classrooms program, will be an interagency collaboration including state agencies, federal partners, non-profit environmental and outdoor education organizations and formal education partners. More than two dozen organizations will be invited to join the partnership, including the Living Classrooms Foundation, the Chesapeake Bay Trust, the National Aquarium, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, and the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education.

“We all have the power to make a difference when it comes to environmental stewardship, and I thank Governor Moore for his leadership on fighting pollution to make Maryland a healthier place to live,” said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain . “Young people are already our greatest asset in tackling our climate challenges because they understand the threat. Now we are giving them the tools.” The goal of the partnership is to develop Maryland students as environmental caretakers by providing structured, outdoor educational opportunities where they can learn how to access, conserve, and restore the state’s natural resources. The partnership will also recommend ways for school systems to lessen the impacts their buildings and grounds have on local waterways and the environment, such as by reforesting unused land or developing renewable energy sources.

“Students can learn about the environment in a classroom, but taking them outside to experience those concepts in a forest, on the Chesapeake Bay, or in their own backyards brings those lessons to life,” said Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz . “These outdoor experiences also help improve students’ overall well-being. Studies have shown that today’s students are spending more time indoors and less time in nature. This partnership can help reduce that trend by educating students about the unique natural places throughout Maryland and how students can help us conserve them.”

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Great getaways to Maryland’s mountain panhandle.

By marty legrand, september 2021.

ABOVE : PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOELLE HERMAN.

hat’s roughly 90 miles long but less than two at its narrowest, over 3,000 feet at its tallest, and has the same nickname as the appendages of eight other states? Maryland’s panhandle, whose deep forests and mountain vistas rival Florida’s northwestern corner or Texas’ top hat for visitor appeal and hardscrabble history. That’s right, Maryland has a panhandle, too. West of Maryland’s wasp-waist at Hancock, the woods get denser, the elevation higher, the population sparser. If you’re still craving elbow room after the coronavirus lockdown, our panhandle boasts four state forests, 13 state parks, a federally protected historic waterway, miles of trails, and inviting mountain towns to boot. Visit now, when the cool autumn air begins to set in, and perishing leaves will soon render vivid shades of yellow, orange, and red. This is a land of breathing room and beauty.

Trail Town, The Towpath, and a Tunnel Of Darkness

The largest contiguous section of state forestland, Green Ridge State Forest lies just west of Hancock. Its 48,000 lush acres touch the Pennsylvania border and hug the panhandle’s undulating southeastern boundary, the Potomac River.

LODGING : Popular with cyclists, the historic Town Hill B&B in Little Orleans sits along the National Pike across from the Town Hill Overlook and its sweeping three-state view. The inn’s hearty breakfast will get your day started.

Photography by JODY SPERTZEL ARNESON

PHOTO WORTHY

Don’t miss two of the Green Ridge driving tour’s most breathtaking vistas. Banner’s Overlook , atop Town Hill Mountain, offers views of the Potomac River, plus West Virginia on the opposite shore. Zumbrun Overlook , on Polish Mountain, looks west to Warrior Mountain and the town of Flintstone.

MOUNTAIN TOWN

Stagecoaches, canal boats, and locomotives once threaded through this Potomac River town in Washington County, where the borders of Pennsylvania and West Virginia nearly pinch Maryland in half. Today, much of the traffic arrives on foot or two wheels; travelers on the C&O Canal Towpath , the Western Maryland Rail Trail , and the north-south Tuscarora Trail —not to mention interstate highways that barely skirt town—find Hancock a convenient, hospitable stop.

UNWIND : Pet-friendly and delightfully cheeky, Buddylou’s is a favorite for all travelers. From a deck overlooking the trails, eat elevated comfort food like a BLT whose “B” stands for crispy pork belly and ultracreamy mac-and-cheese, washed down with a beer or house lemonade while marveling at the eclectic retro décor. Treat yourself to a slice of “mile-high” lemon meringue pie at Weaver’s , a family restaurant and bakery known for its righteous cream pies.

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE

Chesapeake & ohio canal towpath.

Scenic Vistas, Savage Beauty, and the Best of Appalachian Arts

Heading west, Dans Mountain , between Cumberland and Frostburg in Allegany County, gives way in Garrett County to Big Savage Mountain and then the scenic ridges, trout-filled rivers, and sprawling reservoir in Savage River State Forest, which covers almost 56,000 acres.

Photography by Bill Merlavage

TRAINING WHEELS : Want to savor the Great Allegheny Passage’s scenery without bike traffic or uphill climbs? Tracks and Yaks now offers railbiking tours on the old Western Maryland Railroad tracks that parallel the Great Allegheny Passage (aka the GAP) between Frostburg and Cumberland. Seated on a lightweight, four-wheeled chassis (the railway version of a pedal boat), railbikers pedal slowly downhill from Frostburg to Cash Valley, rounding the railroad’s famous horseshoe bend, Helmstetter's Curve. A trolley returns riders to Frostburg’s train depot.

Photography by Megan Skopec.

Looking for panoramas of fall color? Maryland Park Service trail manager Dan Hudson recommends Meadow Mountain Overlook in Savage River State Forest and Dan's Rock , Allegany County’s highest peak. Wildlife photographers should focus on Savage River Reservoir to spot bald eagles, says Savage River State Forest manager Sean Nolan.

UNWIND : Try local favorite Ristorante Ottaviani for pasta, The Crabby Pig for cakes and pork, and Dig Deep Brewery for craft beers, like a house pilsner honoring the C&O Canal.

Photography by Sam Demartino

UNWIND : The Princess Restaurant , family-run since 1939, serves comfort food as down to earth as its most famous patron, President Harry Truman. Enjoy puffy pancakes, creamy milkshakes, and hot turkey sandwiches at the counter or a table, including the very booth the then POTUS occupied in the 1950s. At the modern end of Frostburg’s dining spectrum, Clatter Café earns raves for its lattes, locally roasted coffee, and creative ways with bagels, salads, and soups.

Water, Woods, and Autumn Glory

Maryland’s largest lake (Deep Creek), highest waterfall (Muddy Creek), Olympic-caliber whitewater (Youghiogheny River), tallest mountain (Backbone), and dual state forests (Potomac-Garrett) fill the panhandle’s western end—a lot of wilderness in one corner of the U.S.'s fifth most densely populated state.

TRAILS : Renovated three years ago, Deep Creek Lake State Park trails now include a top-notch loop trail for mountain biking in Garrett County. “Bring your A-game,” advises state park trail manager Dan Hudson, “the routes are rough and rocky.” Potomac-Garrett State Forest offers 80-plus miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails. Hike between craggy boulders past gnarled tree roots at Garrett State Forest’s otherworldly Rock Maze Trail . In Potomac State Forest , families love the far less challenging Lostland Run Trail with its waterfall views, suspension bridge, and Potomac River overlook. Clear, cold Lostland Run also offers excellent wild brook trout fishing, says Potomac-Garrett Forest manager Scott Campbell.

Photo courtesy of Dan Galsstetter

Photography by Williams Johns

DETOUR : In Sang Run State Park, visit recently restored Sang Run Election House , a modest wooden polling place built nearly 150 years ago. Emancipated slaves and, decades later, newly enfranchised women cast ballots here.

UNWIND : Two newcomers diversify Oakland’s traditional food scene. Known for a bevy of craft beers, Vagabond Taproom serves sandwiches, salads, and tasty appetizers like blistered green beans with “comeback sauce.” Relax with a craft cocktail or glass of wine on Sipside Lounge’s patio, warmed by a towering stone fireplace. The lounge features live music and house charcuterie.

Canyon Loop Trail at Swallow Falls State Park winds through old-growth hemlocks to Muddy Creek , a 53-foot plunge, and three other spectacular Youghiogheny River waterfalls. Enjoy sweeping views from Hoye-Crest on Backbone Mountain —at 3,360 feet, it's the state’s highest point. The trailhead is located nearby in Silver Lake, West Virginia.

The Catoctins

In nearby Thurmont (home of Colorfest , Oct. 9-10), satisfy hiker-sized appetites with Thurmont Kountry Kitchen’s “broasted” (battered and pressure-fried) chicken dinner followed by a “Death by Chocolate” cupcake. Pick apples or buy a fresh-baked pie at Catoctin Mountain Orchard and Bakery .

Photography by Ty Drew Photo

Local flavors, western maryland handcrafted lemonade, caporale’s pepperoni rolls, steyer brothers maple syrup.

The Steyer family has been tapping Garrett County maple trees for over 110 years. Today, Steyer Brothers Maple collects sap from 30-plus acres of trees to make syrup, candies, and granulated maple sugar. At the family’s “sugar camp” near Oakland, a traditional wood-fired evaporator boils sap into the delicious syrup locals love on their buckwheat pancakes.

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Green resources and programs, new green certified businesses to be featured on ride on buses; businesses must apply by august 1, the green business certification.

Montgomery County Maryland’s Green Business Certification Program is designed to recognize businesses and other entities that have taken voluntary steps to protect, preserve, and improve the environment. Certified green businesses operate in a manner that demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship, and conserve energy and water, reduce their carbon footprint, and generate less waste and recycle more.

Businesses that are interested in making their operations more sustainable can use the resources offered through the Green Business Certification Program to achieve this goal.

Current Adopt A Road Participants that are Green Business Certified:

If you would like your company to be Green Certified - visit  www.mygreenbiz.org  for more information!

Green Business Incentives Programs

Maryland green ribbon schools.

The Green Ribbon Schools award is given to select schools across the nation that The U.S. Department of Education (USED) recognizes as schools that save energy, reduce costs, feature environmentally sustainable learning spaces, protect health, foster wellness, and offer environmental education to boost academic achievement and community engagement. Inspiring schools to achieve 21st Century excellence, the Green Ribbon Schools award will recognize schools that have achieved, or are making demonstrable progress toward:

• having a net-zero environmental impact;
• improving the health and performance of students and staff; and,
• ensuring the environmental and sustainability literacy of all the students

GREEN SCHOOLS

The Center for Green Schools was established to drive the transformation of all schools into sustainable and healthy places to live, learn, work and play. We believe that everyone, from the kindergartner entering the classroom to the Ph.D. student performing research in a lab, should have the ability to learn in green buildings.

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If you have other questions or concerns email  [email protected]  or call our hotline at 240-777-7155 (make sure to speak clearly when leaving a message).

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NHS Pharmacy First Scotland is an NHS service provided by M&D Green Pharmacies.

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Vitamin B12 Injections

We want to ensure that those following a plant based diet aren’t missing out on vital Vitamin B12 that’s found in animal based foods. By providing people with a supplementary dose of B12 on a regular basis we can help to safeguard their long term health and promote wellness & vitality.

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We provide twice daily collection from all local GP surgeries and we can also deliver the medication directly to your door, free of charge, at a time that suits you. We also provide a repeat prescription re-order service and can assist you with managing your medication re-orders.

Welcome to M&D Green

Established in 1996, the M & D Green Group is a family owned, independent pharmacy chain which incorporates M & D Green Dispensing Chemists, Penmans Pharmacy and T. McLean & Sons. With 33 pharmacies throughout Glasgow, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Inverclyde, Forth Valley, Lothian and Inverness-shire, we are ideally positioned to provide an extensive and personalised service to patients in central Scotland. Managing Director, Martin Green, who opened the first pharmacy in the south of Glasgow, is still at the helm today. Using his vast knowledge and experience, he ensures the highest level of professional service and pharmaceutical care on a daily basis. "We are very proud of the services we offer as they provide a multitude of benefits to patients in the community. We pride ourselves on providing the highest possible level of care, because at the M & D green group, we deliver."

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Our repeat prescription services make handling your medication as simple as possible. Please speak to the staff at your local branch about our range of services and they will happily assist you in signing up for them.

Branch Locator

With 32 branches throughout Glasgow, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Inverclyde, Forth Valley, Lothian and Inverness-shire, we are ideally positioned to provide an extensive and personalised service to patients in central Scotland. Please have a look at the map to find your local branch.

At every branch of M & D Green our friendly pharmacists are on hand to offer expert advice on a broad range of health matters.

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WELCOME TO THE Maryland Green Registry

Working toward a sustainable maryland.

The Maryland Green Registry is a free, voluntary program offering tips and resources to help businesses and other organizations set and meet their own goals on the path to sustainability. Collectively, Maryland Green Registry members have reported saving $106​ million annually through the proven, practical measures they have shared in their online member profiles.

Become a member in three easy steps!

• Go to the Join Here page to download the member profile form.
• Share information on at least five environmental practices in place at your facility (e.g. voluntary actions to reduce energy and water usage ​or reduce waste).
• Provide a measurable result related to at least  one of these practices.

 Collect your membership benefits:

• Increased visibility of your organization’s environmental efforts through the Maryland Green Registry website and use of the Maryland Green Registry logo.
• Free information and technical assistance on implementing new environmental best practices.
• Information on webinars and conferences to help you continue your greening efforts.
• Recognition and eligibility for the annual Maryland Green Registry Leadership Awards.

Whether you’re just getting started in greening your facility or are looking to push your environmental program to the next level, join the Maryland Green Registry to demonstrate your commitment to a strong, proactive approach to environmental management.

The Mar​yland Green Registry is...

• Free: There is no cost to join. Simply create a member profile sharing your environmental best practices.
• Flexible: You choose the activities that make the most sense for your organization.
• Inclusive: The Maryland Green Registry is open to organizations and facilities of all types and sizes in both owned and leased space.
• Interactive: Learn here​ what other Maryland Green Registry members are doing to reduce their environmental impacts and receive staff support on checklist measures.

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Greenbelt Travel Services

Your passport to travel since 1974.

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Greenbelt Travel Services is a travel agency dedicated to serving you and your needs with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.  We have been in the travel industry since 1974.  We can assist you with Destination Weddings, Honeymoons, Family Groups, Cruises, Travel Insurance, Europe Packages, River Cruises, Australia, United States, All-Inclusive packages, and more. We can get you to almost anywhere in the world as we work with trusted suppliers.

Our staff is not only very knowledgeable, we are highly trained specialists as indicated by our certifications such as CTA, Master Cruise Counselor, Sandals Resorts Specialist, Australia Specialist, Crystal Cruise Specialist, and Cunard Cruise Specialist, just to name a few. As a Certified Travel Associate (CTC), we have gone through extensive training to ensure that we can offer an even higher level of expertise and professionalism. 

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Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

201 Waterfront St, National Harbor, MD, 20745

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heated indoor

on-site (fee) and valet

Dining & Entertainment

4 restaurants, full bar, nightclub

Room Amenities

refrigerators, coffeemakers, safes. Fee: high-speed Internet, wireless Internet

Sports & Recreation

sauna, hot tub, steamroom, marina, game room, exercise room, spa

Guest Services

valet laundry, boarding pass kiosk, rental car service, room service, area transportation-MGM and Tanger outlets

check-in 4 pm, pet friendly (call for restrictions/fees.)

AAA Diamond Program

Upscale style and amenities enhanced with the right touch of service.

Spacious, Bedding Furniture, Seating, Television, Amenities, Technology, Style, Comfort

Layout, Vanity Area, Shower, Fixtures, Illumination, Amenities

Exterior, Facilities, Layout, Vibe, Food and Drink, Technology, Recreation

AAA Diamond Inspector Notes

O n the banks Potomac River this hotel features a soaring atrium housing multiple shops and restaurants and a nightly illuminated dancing fountains show. Smoke free premises. 1996 units. 19 stories, interior corridors. Accessibility (Call).

AAA Verified Reviews ( 2 )

Thank you for your review.

It's a great venue that my children and I always love to visit. A nice getaway.

Hello, We are pleased to hear you had a 5-star stay! Your feedback is valuable to us and we appreciate your review. Kind Regards, AAA Travel

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5 teens injured in shooting at senior skip day gathering in Maryland park: Police

Five teenagers were injured after gunfire rang out at a large gathering of high school students taking part in a senior skip day in Maryland , police said.

Officers from several law enforcement agencies were responding to help control a crowd of 500 to 600 students who had gathered in Schrom Hills Park in Greenbelt Friday afternoon when they heard multiple shots ring out, according to Greenbelt Police Chief Richard Bowers.

Five male victims ranging between the ages of 16 and 18 were located with gunshot wounds, Bowers said. All five victims were transported to local hospitals.

Three victims were released from the hospital and the sole victim listed as critical has been upgraded to stable condition, Greenbelt Police said Saturday.

A suspect in the shooting is believed to have fled the park when the crowd dispersed following the gunfire and has not been located at this time, Bowers said. Police believe there was only one shooter, he said.

The police chief called the shooting a "horrible, tragic, senseless act."

"These were kids on senior skip day who were looking to have a good time in a local park, and to have something like this occur is just maddening," Bowers said.

The students had initially gathered in Bowie, Maryland, for senior skip day and were asked to disperse by local law enforcement, a Greenbelt Police Department spokesperson told ABC News. Many of those students then moved to Schrom Hills Park, where they participated in a large water gun fight prior to the shooting, police said.

Greenbelt Mayor Emmett Jordan said the gathering was "informally organized" on social media.

"We don't condone skipping school, but it's the senior skip day," Bowers said. "It's just a tragedy."

Students from multiple high schools in the area are believed to have been at the park, the chief said.

A motive remains unclear.

The shooting remains under investigation. Bowers urged anyone with footage from the incident to reach out to police. Investigators will also be looking over body-worn camera footage, he said.

"We know that the person involved is definitely on a camera somewhere," Bowers said.

Former Green Bay player Kayla Karius leaves South Dakota to return to her alma mater as coach

The Associated Press

April 23, 2024, 12:01 PM

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GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Former Green Bay player Kayla Karius is returning to her alma mater to take over for Kevin Borseth, who retired two weeks ago.

Karius played for Green Bay from 2007-11, when she was known as Kayla Tetschlag. She coached South Dakota the last two seasons and posted a 37-29 record, including a 23-13 mark this year that included a WNIT appearance.

She will be introduced at a Thursday news conference.

“This is the premier women’s basketball program in our state and is located in one of the most innovative and booming communities,” Karius said Tuesday in a statement released by the school. “I look forward to carrying on a strong tradition of championships on the court and excellence in the classroom.”

During her playing career, Karius helped Green Bay earn three NCAA Tournament berths and reach the Sweet 16 her senior season. She was named the 2011 Horizon League player of the year.

Before becoming South Dakota’s head coach in 2022, Karius had stints as an assistant at South Dakota (2016-18), Wisconsin (2018-21) and Drake (2021-22).

“Kayla epitomized the Green Bay way as a player, and she is a rising star as a coach,” athletic director Josh Moon said in a statement. “She will take this program to even greater heights. It’s so special for our team to be able to be led by someone who has been in their shoes and believes to her core of the power of Green Bay basketball.”

Karius takes over a Green Bay program that went 27-7 and reached the NCAA Tournament this season in Borseth’s final year. Borseth went 821-316 in a 37-year head coaching career that included two stints at Green Bay as well as stops at Michigan Tech and Michigan. He ranks 16th among all Division I women’s basketball coaches in total wins.

Borseth went 509-146 at Green Bay from 1998-2007 and 2012-24. Green Bay made 13 NCAA Tournament appearances under him.

AP women’s college basketball: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-womens-college-basketball-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/womens-college-basketball

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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