The Pasadena Business Association had the opportunity to attend a Legislative session at the House of Delegates on February 14^th.  This is always a fun and educational adult “field trip”.  We started the day meeting with Delegates Nic Kipke and Brian Chisholm in addition to Senator Bryan Simonaire.  They reviewed some of the important legislation affecting small businesses as well as asking for input from the attendees on issues that are important to them.  We are very lucky to have such interactive and open elected officials in our district to look out for the best interests of Pasadena small businesses.  After an introduction in the House of Delegates we toured the Maryland State house to learn about the rich history of Annapolis, our former nation’s capital.  The exhibits were educational and informative.  Everyone enjoyed seeing the silver from 1906 that was recovered from the U.S.S. Maryland.  Each piece represented a county in Maryland and had many intricate details for each area, especially when you consider it was made by hand.

Our next stop was Government House, otherwise known as the Governor’s mansion.  We were able to view the many ornately decorated rooms with elegant chandelier’s and striking paintings of the first ladies.  There was even a hot tub in the outdoor courtyard!

No trip to the State House is complete without a trip to The Dome!  We climbed over 150 narrow spiral steps to get to the top of the dome of the state house for a spectacular view of the city of Annapolis, the Severn River, the Bay Bridge and the Naval Academy.  We also enjoyed a photo op with Delegate Chisholm at the top of the dome.  

All of the stair climbing really worked up our appetite.  Harry Browne’s served a delicious lunch before we boarded the Atlantic Coast Charter bus to head back to Pasadena.  We want to thank Ron Dillon for donating the Charter Bus to transport us to and from Annapolis, Sue our tour guide, and Emily, Delegate Kipke’s assistant for the delicious breakfast and arranging the tours for us.  We look forward to continuing this special outing each year.