20070822 Westminster Eagle Week in Review

Westminster Eagle Week in Review

Posted Saturday, August 25, 2007

2007 Carroll County Public Schools School Bus Schedules

Kevin E. Dayhoff

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County fair emerged with Carroll's agricultural awareness
In researching the predecessor to what we now know as the Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair -- which began in Taneytown in 1897 -- some folks have suggested that there was once a "fairground" at the site of the current Carroll County Regional Airport.

Well, perhaps they are partially right. Historic... [Read full story]

Local News

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Carroll County fair ambassador heads to state stage
As the 2007 Carroll County Farm Bureau Ambassador, Sarah Rawlings handed out ribbons to all the livestock winners at this month's 4-H and FFA Fair and posed in all the photos during the livestock auction.

Now that the fair is over, the 17-year-old will represent the farm bureau on a larger stage, ... [Read full story]

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City parks, trail earn POS funds

A ramp replacement, a new playground and an extension to Wakefield Valley Trail are all projects in Westminster that have been approved to receive Program Open Space money from the state.

The projects are approved for a total of $209,893 from POS, designated to Westminster through Carroll ... [Read full story]

Business Briefs

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Taking a dive in Carroll

It may seem odd to some people that scuba divers from all over the state come to Carroll County to dive.

George Carter doesn't find it curious at all.

In fact, he counts on it.

Carter has been diving professionally for more than 20 years and is co-owner of Undersea Outfitters located in Finksburg. What is it about Carroll County that attracts divers from all over the state?

One draw is Hyde's Quarry, located between Westminster and New Windsor off of Route 31. The quarry has been a staple of the diving scene for years, presenting a training ground for fledgling divers as ... [Read full story]

Focus on People

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Focus on People

Carroll CAP has pivotal role in Tri-Wing event

Twenty-six members of the Carroll Composite Squadron joined some 250 Civil Air Patrol cadets and officers from as far away as Nevada and Michigan at the annual Tri-Wing Encampment, held at Camp Fretterd in Reisterstown, July 28-Aug. 5.

The Tri-Wing ... [Read full story]

Opinion

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Carroll County's school year starting on a strong note

Editorial

Carroll County Public Schools will open on Aug. 27 on a high note after learning last week that every school in the county met federal guidelines in the most recent round of standardized testing in math and reading.

Every school in the system made the benchmarks for "adequate yearly pr... [Read full story]

For Better or Worse

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My relationship with wildlife is something to bee-hold
Doug was leaning back on the sofa, engrossed in something on his laptop screen, when I burst through the door off the deck and made a mad dash for the freezer.

"Ow ow ow ow ow ow!" I yelled. I needed an ice cube and I needed it fast.

"It's like living with a 5-year-old," Doug sighed. He sat forw... [Read full story]

Wolf at the Door

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Throwing a wrench, and a little soup, into match making
Recently I happened to read a column written by two young people about their reaction to dating and their advice to others.

I loved the column -- if simply to muse how wrong they were!

"Dear Abby" I'm not, but nevertheless, for those of you looking for a soul-mate, I believe I have some advice.<... [Read full story]

Culleton on Carroll

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Carroll has to stop growing homes and start growing jobs
First, there was the prediction from some regional planning council or other that Carroll was to be the fastest growing county in the next decade.

Next, there was the presentation by our own Economic Development Director Larry Twele that military base realignments would bring more than 400 new hou... [Read full story]

Community Calendar

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Community Calendar

ARTS

The Carroll County Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., will host its annual Members Art Show, Aug. 16-Sept. 29 in the center's Tevis Gallery. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Wednesday; Thursday until 8 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more details, call the center at ... [Read full story]

[Local news archives]

Caution: Busy on Board

Van Parys balances hectic schedule as student and school board member

Topics of conversation for new high school seniors these days might be summer vacations, breaks from homework and early plans for homecoming.

But last week, Liberty High School senior Rachel Van Parys was instead focusing on the environment, dress codes and "constructive possession."

These are the things the 16-year-old has to think about as she prepares for her year representing fellow students as the student member of the Carroll County Board of Education.

"I'm pretty excited," she says.

Van Parys... [Read full story]

Local News Saturday, August 25

School system again calling all volunteers
During the past school year, the Carroll County Public School system benefited from the support of 15,609 registered volunteers who collectively provided 113,710 hours of service.

"They make countless things happen," said Jane Farver, coordinator of the Carroll County Public Schools volunteer prog... [Read full story]

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News Briefs

Shepherd's Staff collects for prescriptions

Carroll County's Shepherd's Staff wants to give you a pig.

As part of the nonprofit's effort to support county residents in need, Shepherd's Staff is seeking business owners to help the group raise money for its prescription assistance program.

The "... [Read full story]

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City parks, trail earn POS funds

A ramp replacement, a new playground and an extension to Wakefield Valley Trail are all projects in Westminster that have been approved to receive Program Open Space money from the state.

The projects are approved for a total of $209,893 from POS, designated to Westminster through Carroll ... [Read full story]

More Headlines Back-to-School 2007-08

Kevin E. Dayhoff

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Bergman: Closing credit for a master of cinema
On July 30, 2007, the acclaimed, enigmatic Swedish filmmaker Ingmar Bergman, passed away at age 89.

Bergman's genius is the source of an endless fascination for me. He was born in Uppsala, Sweden, a small college town on July 14, 1918. He drew much of his inspiration by attempting to figure out th... [Read full story]

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Agriculture in Carroll has always been 'fair' game

The 2007 Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair drew to a close last Saturday as herds of folks flocked to pack up and clean up the grounds of the Carroll County Agriculture Center.

It's another successful fair for the history books.

Late last Friday evening, Andy Cashman -- the fair's overall livestoc...
[Read full story]

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Song of the South: No grits, no glory

Recently, my family ventured on our annual sojourn south. It's a combination family reunion and vacation, as folks rendezvous from literally all over the world to a house with its very own ZIP code in Nags Head, N.C.

Many are aware of North Carolina's Outer Banks as a family values-oriented destin... [Read full story]

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Barnes keeps adapting to meet changing needs of law enforcement

Westminster Police Department Captain Randy D. Barnes, 50, graduated on June 8 from the 229th session of the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

The Westminster mayor and Common Council recognized Captain Barnes at the last council meeting.

Westminster Common Council president Roy ... Read full story]

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More Headlines Carroll working to save and share 'Our Barn'

Commissioners should start 'coffin' up cash on 144-year-old debt

Helen Thomas to speak at McDaniel College

Like the ever-ready bunny, at age 86, the "The First Lady of the Press," Helen Thomas soldiers-on in what many understand to be her single-minded mission to save the nation, even if she needs to do it all by herself.

A celebrated author, member of the White House Pres Corps, former United Press International reporter, and currently a Hearst newspaper columnist, Helen Thomas is slated to lecture at McDaniel College in Westminster Thursday evening, April 12.

In an era when the challenges faced by our nation are debated 24 hours a day by partisan talking heads well tra... [Read full story]

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Community Rallies behind Bowling Brook
On March 2, Bowling Brook Preparatory Academy in Keymar announced that after 50 years in operation, it would close on March 9.

The closing comes in the wake of the death of one of the students on January 23.

Since the closing was announced, many Carroll Countians have rallied in sup... [Read full story]

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A sordid saga of communists, reservoirs, congressman, and pumpkins
Contrary to what is being circulated; the Union Mills reservoir project in Carroll County will add another layer of protection to the site of the “pumpkin papers,” and this national treasure is not threatened.

Recently the old Whittaker Chambers “pumpkin patch&... [Read full story]

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Who was Oriana Fallaci?

Who was Oriana Fallaci? On September 15, Oriana Fallaci, the Italian lioness of letters, died of cancer.

Although Ms. Fallaci was one of the world’s greatest artists of letters; she is today, relatively unknown in the United States.

A prolific – quite controversial - journalist and existential writer with an aggressive and indefatigable approach to life, she had been shot several times and left for dead, had torrid affairs and put on trial.

She never skipped a beat.

Born in Italy on June 29, 1929 Ms. Fallaci served in the fascist resistance ... [Read full story]

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More Headlines

“The Wizard of Oz”
Local news coverage, in Spanish, of the tragic accident in Westminster
Former Texas Governor Ann Richards has died
The Carroll County Wormseed Story
IN HIS OWN WORDS: Larry Haines’ experience growing wormseed
Carroll County Maryland Vietnam Memorial Park, Westminster
On Memorial Day, Freddy Magsamen is No. 11 in our hearts
Flower & Jazz Festival Kicks Off the Spring Event Season in Westminster
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 6
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 5
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 4
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 3
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 2
IN HIS OWN WORDS: An Interview with Carroll Budget Director Ted Zaleski, part 1
Feedback on Westminster budget? Here's mine
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 1
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 2
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 3
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 4
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 5
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 6
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: an interview with Commissioners Minnich and Jones, part 7
Gordon Parks - An American Cultural Icon passes Away at 93
Community Leaders take action against underaged drinking
Carroll County Children’s Chorus Sing Spring

20070824 Margaret K. 'Peggy' Villella, 62, of Westminster

Margaret K. 'Peggy' Villella, 62, of Westminster

Many of us in the community were taken aback to open the Carroll County Times Friday morning and read that Peggy Villella had passed away.

Over the years as an appointed and then an elected official I had gotten to know Peggy as the ever-cheerful and vivacious receptionist for the Carroll County Times office on Railroad Avenue in Westminster.

When I moved to the other side of the computer and began writing columns for “The Advocate,” a weekly publication of the Carroll County Times, every time I visited the office, she would, no matter how hectic the day, act as if I were the only person in the world she needed to greet and help that day.

In a Carroll County Times article which was published in the paper today, (Face of the Times remembered for her warmth,) Karen Karaszkiewicz wrote what many of us felt, that she was the “face” of the Carroll County Times. In many ways a model for what corporations and government agencies need on the front desk – such as, for example, Kay Church, the receptionist for Carroll County government in the Carroll County office building on Center Street in Westminster. (See: 20060706 KDDC Aunt Kay Birthday Cake and the Commissioners and 20060713 Happy Birthday Kay Church)

Ms. Karaszkiewicz wrote

“A woman who was known by many as the face of the Carroll County Times will be remembered by friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors for her charisma and upbeat attitude.”

[…]

“For about the past 10 years, she had worked at the front desk, spreading her cheerfulness to everyone who walked into the building, whether they were customers or coworkers, according to Lori Blake, director of administration.”

Over the years in which I got to know her, she never ever had a bad thing to say about anyone. And as Ms. Karaszkiewicz wrote, “For about the past 10 years, she had worked at the front desk, spreading her cheerfulness to everyone who walked into the building, whether they were customers or coworkers, according to Lori Blake, director of administration.”

Upon hearing the news, Carroll County commissioner Dean Minnich spoke of having gotten to know her over his past years as newspaperman and remarked that she was always so upbeat, positive and always greeted you with a big smile. “There is so much bitterness in the world and it is such a shame to lose such a sweet person.”

Carroll County Times city editor Jamie Kelly spoke for many when he said, “It’s been a shock. She was just a wonderful lady. She loved people and it showed. It will be hard to adjust to the Times without her...”

There are many such folks in Carroll County and it is people like Peggy Villella that make our community a wonderful place to live. She will be greatly missed.

Her obituary reads:

Margaret K. 'Peggy' Villella, 62, of Westminster

Margaret Kay "Peggy" Villella, 62, of Westminster died Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007, at her home.

Born July 10, 1945, in Washington, D.C., she was the daughter of the late James E. and Charlotte Houk Freeman. She was the wife of Frank Xavier Villella Sr., her husband of 39 years.

She was a graduate of Patterson High School. She had been a receptionist and cashier for the Carroll County Times since 1992.

She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Carroll Post 31 American Legion and of the VFW Post 467, both in Westminster.

She enjoyed going on ocean cruises, weekend getaways and trips to the mountains. She liked eating crabs and collecting dolls. She also enjoyed watching scary movies and science fiction movies; her favorite was the original version of "The Thing."

Surviving, in addition to her husband, are sons Patrick and Frank X. Villella Jr., both of Westminster; a brother, James E. Freeman of Lighthouse Point, Fla.; a devoted friend, Rita Shea Schiff of Baltimore; and eight nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at St. John Roman Catholic Church, 43 Monroe St., Westminster, with Monsignor Arthur Valenzano officiating. Interment will be private.

The family will receive friends from noon to 3 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Pritts Funeral Home & Chapel, 412 Washington Road, Westminster.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, Memorial and Tributes Processing Center, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058-6536.

Villella Margaret 19450710 20070823

20070824 Quote of the day - Courage

Quote of the day – Courage

Friday, August 24, 2007

Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I'll try again tomorrow."

Maryanne Radmacher Writer and artist

Thanks TC

20070823 Quote of the day - Gravitate

Quote of the day – Gravitate

Thursday, August 23^rd, 2007

Responsibilities gravitate to the person who can shoulder them.

Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) Writer and publisher

Thanks TC

20070817 Andrew Bird - "Imitosis"

Andrew Bird – “Imitosis.”

From the 2007 release "Armchair Apocrypha"

Directed by Britta Johnson

Produced by Xan Aranda

Added: August 16, 2007

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnXCzFnkxtY

20070817 Andrew Bird - "Imitosis"

20070813 Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Wall Street Journal: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

By a WALL STREET JOURNAL Staff Reporter

August 13, 2007 4:00 a.m.

Karl Rove, President Bush's longtime political adviser, is resigning as White House deputy chief of staff effective Aug. 31, and returning to Texas, he said in an interview with Paul Gigot, editor of The Wall Street Journal's editorial page.

(See related editorial.) 'THE MARK OF ROVE'

Read the editorial by The Wall Street Journal's editorial page editor, Paul Gigot, on his interview with Karl Rove.

Mr. Rove, who has held a senior post in the White House since President Bush took office in January 2001, told Mr. Gigot …

Read the rest of the article here: Karl Rove to Resign at the End of August

The Wall Street Journal published the interview Monday.

RELATED ARTICLES AND BLOGS

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Related Articles from the Online Journal

'The Mark of Rove'

Bush Invokes Executive Privilege

White House Won't Rule Out Eventual Pardon for Libby

House Democrats Issue New Subpoena

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB118698747711695773.html?mod=hpp_us_whats_news

20070810 Vangelis - Blade Runner (end credits) Soundtrack and Video

Vangelis - Blade Runner (end credits) Soundtrack and Video

August 10, 2007

I just came across this neat video by herefordmsv posted on YouTube several months ago.

Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007

Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007

For more information call: 410-848-FAIR

or go to: http://www.carrollcountyfair.com/

For more articles and information on “Soundtrack” about the Fair click here: Carroll Co. 4-H Fair

Click here for Fair Schedule – or here.

*****

Carroll Co. 4-H Fair:

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/search/label/4H%20Carroll%20Co%204H%20FFA%20Fair

Click here for Fair Schedule:

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070718-sdosm-july-28-through-august-3.html

here:

http://www.carrollcountyfair.com/2007/PDFS/FairSchedule%20Final.pdf

20070728 Carroll County 4H FFA Fair July 28 August 3 2007
08 2007 Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007
09 2007 Carroll Co 4H FFA Fair

Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007

Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007

For more information call: 410-848-FAIR

or go to: http://www.carrollcountyfair.com/

For more articles and information on “Soundtrack” about the Fair click here: Carroll Co. 4-H Fair

Click here for Fair Schedule – or here.

*****

Carroll Co. 4-H Fair:

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/search/label/4H%20Carroll%20Co%204H%20FFA%20Fair

Click here for Fair Schedule:

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070718-sdosm-july-28-through-august-3.html

here:

http://www.carrollcountyfair.com/2007/PDFS/FairSchedule%20Final.pdf

20070728 Carroll County 4H FFA Fair July 28 August 3 2007
08 2007 Carroll County 4H & FFA Fair: July 28- August 3, 2007
09 2007 Carroll Co 4H FFA Fair

20070725 Child advocates State must do better for kids Examiner

Child advocates: State must do better for kids

Jaime Malarkey, The Examiner 2007-07-25

BALTIMORE –

In the same year a Baltimore teenager died in a state-run residential detention center and a Prince George’s county youth died after a tooth infection spread to his brain, child advocates today pressured Maryland lawmakers to improve problems affecting kids that, according to a new report, appear to be worsening.

Maryland’s rank nationally fell from 23rd to 24th in an annual child wellness report released today from the Baltimore-based Annie E. Casey Foundation, which analyzed factors including infant mortality, teen pregnancy and high school dropout rates.

Using the foundation’s indicators and some of their own, local advocates said the ranking should be much better considering Maryland is the second wealthiest state in the nation.

They said the gap is the third largest in the country.

(Click here to read the Annie E. Casey Foundations' KIDS COUNT 2007 Data Book.)

Read the rest here: Child advocates: State must do better for kids

20070721 Frederick News-Post Letter to the Editor: “Trash talk no longer funny” by Gregor Becker

Frederick News-Post Letter to the Editor: “Trash talk no longer funny” by Gregor Becker

'Trash talk' no longer funny

Originally published July 21, 2007

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/opinion/display_lte.htm?storyid=62768

The July 11 editorial oversimplifies the trash issue.

[See: 20070711 “Trash talk” - Frederick News-Post editorial]

And also see: 20070714 Solid Waste Management Forum at Frederick Community College

The county has only pursued a $100 million waste-to-energy facility without even trying to reduce its waste stream. Comprehensive recycling programs are lacking countywide, while the landfill has been filled with recyclable materials for the last 15 years.

Disposal -- landfill, incineration, etc. -- is going to be expensive. Why not get the county to commit to maximizing recycling over the next three years and then look at the disposal needs after that. Why not generate income from some waste before we burn or bury it?

Officials have taken industry-funded WTE tours in Europe, but have not investigated recycling programs or composting and materials recovery facilities in Delaware, New Jersey and elsewhere. These options aren't being researched because they aren't a part of the county's chosen "integrated approach."

Residents might ask how viable is a technology that even a Fortune 500 company won't put up the capital for? According to budget reports, the Montgomery County facility processed 640,101 tons of waste in 2004, generating 387,141 megawatt hours of electricity valued at $15M, or $23.43 per ton. But, per ton, the net operating cost was $21.78 and the net debt service cost was $42.36.

That year, Montgomery County spent $41M to operate and upgrade the facility. Not included in this figure: non-financed capital of $2.09M; non-contract operating costs of $772,000 for risk management; county work worth $275,134; residue disposal of $10.80 per ton; and charge backs to the Department of Environmental Protection worth $43,603.

Do Frederick residents want this annual bill and to pay increased tipping fees or higher taxes? Or would they prefer working together to reduce their waste stream before deciding if a capital-intensive disposal method is necessary?

GREGOR BECKER

conservation chair

Sierra Club Catoctin Group

20070720 Quote of the day Ernest Hemingway on the price of time

Quote of the day – Ernest Hemingway on the price of time.

Friday, July 20^th, 2007

“There are some things which cannot be learned quickly, and time, which is all we have, must be paid heavily for their acquiring.”

Ernest Hemingway Death In The Afternoon

Photo above: Ernest Hemingway’s desk and typewriter in his studio office in Key West, Florida. February 14th, 2007 www.kevindayhoff.net

20070718 Westminster Eagle week in review

Westminster Eagle week in review

July 18, 2007

Kevin E. Dayhoff Thursday, July 19 Barnes keeps adapting to meet changing needs of law enforcement

Westminster Police Department Captain Randy D. Barnes, 50, graduated on June 8 from the 229th session of the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va.

The Westminster mayor and Common Council recognized Captain Barnes at the last council meeting.

Westminster Common Council president Roy ... [Read full story]

Local News

Rides and fries keep Reese carnival spinning

More than 160 50-pound bags of potatoes will be peeled, washed, hand sliced and fried this week to make one of the signature dishes of the Reese and Community Volunteer Fire Department's Carnival -- french fries.

"They're the best fries around," boasts Dave Reese, a volunteer who handles the fries... [Read full story]

News Briefs

Environs plan set for public hearing July 30

The county's update of the Westminster Environs Plan will face a dual public information session and public hearing on Monday, July 30, at the County Office Building.

The Westminster Environs Community Plan is designed to direct growth and development... [Read full story]

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Local Scout followed a faithful path to Eagle

When Richard Lyons began planning a service project to earn his Eagle Scout designation, he wanted to do something for his church community, St. John's Catholic Church in Westminster.

The 17-year-old rising senior at Westminster High School had in mind building a bell tower, but officials at St. J... [Read full story]

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Tasty menu for fun at 'Surf and Turf' festival

Offering summertime fun -- and food -- the Carroll County Farm Museum and the Maryland Cattleman's Association are sponsoring this weekend's "Surf and Turf" festival on the museum grounds.

The festival runs this Saturday, July 21, noon to 7 p.m.

Featuring crabs from Salerno's of Eldersburg and b... [Read full story]

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Pond set for fall facelift

The popular Westminster Community Pond off Route 140 is scheduled for an upgrade with new playground equipment, new pavilions and improvements to the pond's shoreline in the works.

And along with that facelift, county officials hope the State Highway Administration will also approve a new ... [Read full story]

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Harry Potter casting one final spell on readers

Magicians and muggles throughout Carroll County will be gathering in the wee hours of Friday morning -- including at the Carroll Arts Center -- for a bittersweet celebration, as the final Harry Potter book, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," becomes available at local retailers and librar... [Read full story]

Focus on People

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Community Calendar

ARTS

The Tony Scuito Band will perform in a free concert Saturday, July 21, 1 p.m. at Locust Lane, downtown Westminster off Main Street. The Tony Scuito Band has toured with groups including the Little River band. The concert is sponsored by Coffey Music and Towles Marketing. For details, call ... [Read full story]

Doug... A Little Deeper

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Anybody else out there who's 'not yet a candidate'?

One of the best strategies for quickly moving up in the presidential polls is to be a candidate who's not yet a candidate.

I'm not sure if it this is the result of wanting what we can't have, the grass being greener on the other side of the fence or the hope that someone not yet in the race ... [Read full story]

Opinion

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Westminster Environs plan is sneak peek at coming attractions

Editorial

It's a long way from blueprints to reality, but as most people know (or at least anyone who's assembled a bicycle), you have to take one step at a time if you want to see a mission accomplished.

That's why, even in the dead of summer, it's important to focus on a community meeting and ... [Read full story]

Wolf at the Door

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Sky's the limit when arguing pros and cons of airports

When I receive a letter that's right on the money, I have an obligation to respond. We received just such a letter from Captain Allan Greene of Westminster, who faulted us for writing that we put our aircraft throttles forward against the stops upon takeoff.

He then detailed in his letter that he ... [Read full story]

The Passing Parade

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Sadly, reports of its demise are a bit premature

The mock funeral held by the NAACP at its national convention in Detroit on July 9 -- for the purpose of putting to rest once and for all the "N-word" -- may have been a noble gesture. But while that despicable term may be in its death throes, it's still a long way from being interred forevermore. [Read full story]

For Better or Worse

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Guilt: It's what's for dinner

"Dinner's ready!"

Doug sat down at the table. I put his plate in front of him and said, "Enjoy."

He looked down, then looked up at me, then looked down at the plate again.

"What is this?" he asked.

"A grilled cheese sandwich."

"This," said Doug, jabbing at his plate with his index finger, ... [Read full story]

[Local news archives]

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Continuing saga of Westminster's Library

Throughout Carroll County history there's always been an emphasis on education, church, civic and fraternal organizations, theatrical and singing clubs, community bands and seasonal celebrations.

Historically, folks in Carroll are known for coming together to overcome adversity and make things hap... [Read full story]

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Library has been at the center of the bookshelf in Westminster history

As noted in Katie Jones' story in The Eagle on June 13, plans were recently announced for the renovation of the 27-year-old Westminster branch of the Carroll County Public Library.

This news prompted some discussions of the history and origins of the library in Westminster. Of course, the histor... [Read full story]

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Carroll working to save and share 'Our Barn'

I recently had the opportunity to visit Carroll County's historic Marlin K. Hoff log barn, which was built between 1785 and 1795.

Those accompanying me included Community Media Center videographers Joe Cimino and Rod Boudreaux, who are planning an educational video of the barn and its relocation t... [Read full story]

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Commissioners should start 'coffin' up cash on 144-year-old debt

On June 23 and 24, Westminster and the Pipe Creek Civil War Round Table will host a commemoration of the 144th anniversary of Corbit's Charge.

For those unaware of this piece of history:

On June 29, 1863, Capt. Charles Corbit led approximately 100 Union cavalrymen from the 1st Delaware Cavalry, ... [Read full story]

Winchester Report:

Thursday, July 19

Captain Randy Barnes graduates from the FBI National Academy

June is the season when many friends and family come together to celebrate graduations. It was perhaps no different for friends, colleagues, and members of the Barnes family who celebrated Randy Barnes’ recent graduation.

All right, maybe it was a little different; for you see Westminster Police Department Captain Randy D. Barnes, 50, graduated on June 8 from the 229th session of the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. FBI Director Robert S., Mueller, III, presented him with his diploma. The academy, which began in 1935, has to date, had more than 37... [Read full story]

20070718 Frederick News-Post coverage of recent Waste to Energy discussions

Frederick News-Post coverage of recent Waste to Energy discussions

July 18, 2007

For more information on Waste Management and Waste to Energy issues please click on: Environmentalism Solid Waste Management; Environmentalism Solid Waste Management Waste to Energy; or… Energy Independence or the label, Environmentalism.

Recent articles and editorials in the Frederick News-Post on the Waste-to-Energy solid waste management option:

Exploring options

| Editorial | By: | 07/18/07 | 509 words

The forum included a number of "experts" promoting several important options for handling the county's solid waste problem. Among them were area waste management officials touting the success of their counties' aggressive recycling programs, and the executive director of a regional waste disposal authority which is advising that a waste-to-energy (WTE) incinerator is the answer to the county's trash problems in the future.

County officials still talking trash

| Front Page | By: Pamela Rigaux | 07/15/07 | 498 words

In fact, Harford was pro-recycling even before a 1988 Maryland Law required residents there to recycle 20 percent of their trash, said Robert Ernst, Harford County's recycling manager.

Trash talk

| Editorial | By: | 07/11/07 | 400 words

That doesn't mean that any solution(s) they ultimately decide on are going to sit well with all residents. So far, every attempt to address Frederick County's mounting (pun intended) trash problems have been met with resistance from other-minded people, including environmentalists, recycling enthusiasts and, in particular, those whose lives and property would be most impacted.

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20070716 Monday evening sunset

Monday evening sunset

Daily Photoblog

Posted July 18^th, 2007

Monday evening I was doing some landscaping work at the 4-H Therapeutic Riding Program of Carroll County Arena at the Carroll County Agriculture Center and as I was leaving I was amazed with the sunset.

We’re trying to get things ready for this year’s Carroll County 4-H and FFA Fair.

This year’s Fair is scheduled for: July 28- August 3, 2007. For more information call: 410-848-FAIR or go to: http://www.carrollcountyfair.com/

For more articles and information on “Soundtrack” about the Fair click here: Carroll Co. 4-H Fair

Of course the sunset reminded me of the 1966 song by

The Cyrkle - Red Rubber Ball

20070715 Why Bush Will Be A Winner by William Kristol

Why Bush Will Be A Winner by William Kristol

July 17^th, 2007

William Kristol, the editor of the Weekly Standard has written a great synopsis of the George W. Bush presidency. It is a piece that I wish that I had written.

Writing such a piece has been on my mind since I wrote Gauging A Presidential Legacy last February 14, 2007 in The Tentacle:

Recently political pundits have spent a great deal of effort pondering the legacy of President George W. Bush. Of course, those of us who consider ourselves to be students of history understand that history needs much more time and distance in order to accurately gauge the legacy and historical impact of any particular president.

Yet, uncannily, there are many parallels shared in the legacy of our 33rd president, Harry S Truman and President Bush, our 43rd president; and it is only understandable that the comparisons persist.

I took the opportunity Monday to tour President Truman's Key West White House, known as the "Little White House," in order to re-acquaint myself with the great legacy of the now-legendary president.

After the tour I interviewed the executive director of the Little White House Museum, Robert J. Wolz, at great length. The tour guide, David Lynch and Mr. Wolz are both walking encyclopedias on the life and times of President Truman.

Mr. Wolz says, with a certain "I told you so" confidence, that it is "remarkable that President Truman has gone from the least popular president of all time to the fifth most successful."

President Truman first arrived in Key West in November 1946, just days after the majority party in Congress had changed in the mid-term elections.

More: 20070214 Gauging A Presidential Legacy

Meanwhile Mr. Kristol wrote:

Why Bush Will Be A Winner

By William Kristol, Sunday, July 15, 2007; B01in the Washington Post

I suppose I'll merely expose myself to harmless ridicule if I make the following assertion: George W. Bush's presidency will probably be a successful one.

Let's step back from the unnecessary mistakes and the self-inflicted wounds that have characterized the Bush administration. Let's look at the broad forest rather than the often unlovely trees. What do we see? First, no second terrorist attack on U.S. soil -- not something we could have taken for granted. Second, a strong economy -- also something that wasn't inevitable.

And third, and most important, a war in Iraq that has been very difficult, but where -- despite some confusion engendered by an almost meaningless "benchmark" report last week -- we now seem to be on course to a successful outcome.

Read the rest here: Why Bush Will Be A Winner

And please report dead links…

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20070714 Solid Waste Management Forum at Frederick Community College

The panelists from left to right: David Dunn, Chair, Frederick County Solid Waste Advisory Committee - Moderator; Robert Ernst, Recycling Manager, Harford County, Maryland – “Recycling in Harford County, Maryland”; Lori Scozzafava, Deputy Executive Director, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) – National Waste Management Perspective”; Pamela Gratton, Recycling Director, Fairfax County, Virginia – “Integrated Waste Management”; Richard Brandes, Chief, Waste Minimization Branch US EPA Office of Solid Waste – “USEPA Waste Management Perspective”

Solid Waste Management Forum at Frederick Community College

July 14^th, 2007

Solid Waste Management Forum at Frederick Community College: A quick overview of those in attendance Saturday, July 14, 2007, when Frederick and Carroll County Government in Maryland sponsored a forum on solid waste issues such as recycling, resource recovery, and integrated waste management.

The event took place in the Jack B. Kussmaul Theater at Frederick Community College from 9 AM to 12 PM

The event was not as well attended as many would have liked but nevertheless, hopefully there were enough folks there to continue a discussion of alternative ways of managing municipal solid waste instead of collecting it and burying it in the ground.

For more information on Waste Management and Waste to Energy issues please click on: Environmentalism Solid Waste Management; Environmentalism Solid Waste Management Waste to Energy; or… Energy Independence or the label, Environmentalism.

For more information on Recycling in Carroll County June 14, 2007 00:03.52 see this Video

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20070711 “Trash talk” - Frederick News-Post editorial

“Trash talk” - Frederick News-Post editorial

Trash talk

http://www.fredericknewspost.com/sections/opinion/display_editorial.htm?StoryID=62346

Originally published July 11, 2007

When it comes to trash, no one could claim that local government is ignoring the subject. Elected officials and county managers are acutely aware that solutions are required, and they are diligently at work exploring a range of them.

That doesn't mean that any solution(s) they ultimately decide on are going to sit well with all residents. So far, every attempt to address Frederick County's mounting (pun intended) trash problems have been met with resistance from other-minded people, including environmentalists, recycling enthusiasts and, in particular, those whose lives and property would be most impacted.

Solutions that have been proposed include a permanent new transfer station from which to send the country's trash elsewhere, raising the height of the Reichs Ford Road landfill, and constructing a waste-to-energy incinerator that would generate electricity from the heat produced by burning trash.

Opposition to any and all of these proposals is understandable. No one wants increased truck traffic, a higher, more visible landfill with potential safety issues, or a huge, expensive incinerating/generating facility in his or her backyard.

Still, all these potential solutions have been extensively researched and decisions to consider them were not arrived at frivolously or without considering their negative as well as their positive qualities.

The bottom line, however, is that this county generates a huge quantity of trash -- one that will only increase in coming years -- and effective method(s) of addressing its disposal or destruction are imperative. And while recycling is a positive, worthwhile and attractive endeavor that should be encouraged and can be part of the solutions mix, it alone is not the be-all and end-all to Frederick County's trash problem.

There is no solution to Frederick County's trash question that does not involve some negatives, whether they be financial, environmental or aesthetic. It's trash, folks.

It appears as though local officials are pursuing a multi-pronged approach to this issue, with some of the options -- such as the landfill height extension and transfer station -- being stop-gap measures. In the end, a more comprehensive, permanent solution, perhaps in the form of a waste-to-energy incinerator, will likely have to be embraced.

Local officials are acutely tuned in to this issue, as well they should be, and are thoroughly investigating a number of options. But again, when it comes to trash, there is no such thing as a perfect, negative-free solution.

If there were, trash wouldn't be such a dirty word.

20070714 Frederick and Carroll County Solid Waste Forum

Frederick and Carroll County Solid Waste Forum

Saturday, July 14, 2007

Frederick Community College

Jack B. Kussmaul Theater

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

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Sponsored by Frederick County Government and Carroll County Government

Commissioners from both counties invite citizens to attend a forum on solid waste issues such as recycling, resource recovery and integrated waste management.

The forum provides citizens an opportunity to hear from solid waste professionals regarding sustainable waste management options.

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