Annapolis, MD (October 31, 2024) – Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman and the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks, in collaboration with the Chase Your Dreams Initiative, will unveil a new Mural at Bacontown Park on Saturday, Nov. 2.
The mural, painted across the park’s newly refurbished basketball courts, honors the legacy of Maria Bacon, a historic pioneer who deeded the Bacontown property shortly after gaining her freedom from slavery in 1860. Named the “Neighborhood Rebound Project,” the initiative reflects the spirit of perseverance and opportunity embodied by Bacon’s legacy while promoting social connection and active living through sports.
“Once again, superstar local artist Comacell Brown and Chase Your Dreams Initiative are breathing good energy into the parts of our county where we need it most,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “Bacontown founder Maria Bacon and her family are no doubt smiling down upon this land today.”
The Neighborhood Rebound Project was led by Kyle Williams, CEO of Tunnel Vision and President & Co-Founder of the Chase Your Dreams Initiative. His team partnered with local businesses, volunteers, and muralists, including the well-known artist Comacell Brown, to transform the park’s courts into a visual masterpiece that reflects the community’s heritage.
The mural project is also supported by partners such as DTLR, Arundel Community Development Services, Inc. (ACDS), the Laurel Race Course Impact Fund, and County Councilwoman Julie Hummer. The collaborative effort extends beyond art, aiming to address broader social and economic challenges while enhancing safe, creative spaces for youth and families in Bacontown.
“We are thrilled to be part of a project that not only revitalizes a public space but also tells the powerful story of Maria Bacon,” said Jessica Leys, Director of Anne Arundel County Recreation & Parks. “This partnership demonstrates how local government, nonprofits, and businesses can come together to inspire community pride and provide opportunities for both youth and adults to thrive.”
DTLR, an urban streetwear and sportswear brand, contributed volunteers through its Dare to Live Right outreach program, emphasizing its mission to engage and uplift underserved communities. The company’s involvement reflects a growing commitment to using sports as a tool for empowerment.
“It’s with great honor to complete this project for the community of Bacontown in dedication to the late great historic African American pioneer, Maria Bacon,” said Kyle Williams, CEO of Tunnel Vision and President & Co-Founder of The Chase Your Dreams Initiative. “We look to continue to partner with Recreation & Parks on projects like this that continue to further our efforts to impact social and economic issues that ultimately affect our youth. We want to continue to revitalize and invest in communities while breaking barriers to improve the quality of life of our youth and residents of Anne Arundel County.”
The unveiling event will take place at Bacontown Park at 11:00 AM. It will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, community games, and opportunities to engage with the artists and partners who brought the project to life.
Event Details:
What: Unveiling of the Neighborhood Rebound Project mural
Where: Bacontown Park, Laurel, MD
When: Saturday, November 2, 2024 | 11:00 AM
The media is invited to attend for coverage, interviews, and visuals. This event represents an ongoing commitment by Anne Arundel County to support initiatives that foster community engagement and celebrate local heritage.