The tug is on! The Maritime Republic of Eastport is now planning the 2021 MRE vs. Annapolis Tug of War. Billed as the “Slaughter across the Water,” the annual event pits the neighborhood of Eastport against the city of Annapolis in the longest over-water tug of war in the world. Last year, the tug was canceled for safety concerns over COVID-19. This year’s event will be November 6th at the crack of noon at the end of Second Street. The idea was originally conceived 23 years ago when the city announced a public works project to close the bridge over the Spa Creek that leads from Eastport to downtown Annapolis. A group of residents declared their “independence” from the city and established the Maritime Republic of Eastport,or MRE, and, each year, re-affirms its independence in a proclamation to the mayor challenging Annapolis to a tug of war across Spa Creek. MRE Premier Harry Lockley said, “The Tug of War has become a tradition in Eastport; one that we all missed last year. Now that we can hold it safely, we’re looking forward to getting together once again to have fun, raise money for local charities and continue to define the distinctive character of our neighborhood and our city.” All funds raised by the Tug and other MRE events are distributed to various charitable organizations in the Annapolis area. To date, the all-volunteer organization has raised more than $500,000.00.