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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Report dead links

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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20070711 Westminster Eagle Week in Review

Westminster Eagle Week in Review

July 11^th, 2007

Kevin E. Dayhoff

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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]

Local News

News Briefs

Barnes is new graduate of FBI Academy

Captain Randy D. Barnes of the Westminster Police Department recently graduated from the 229th session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Va. Westminster Chief Jeffrey Spaulding last week announced Barnes' graduation.

Barnes, a 28 year veteran of the W... [Read full story]

More Headlines Business Briefs

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City praises purchase of quarry

The Board of County Commissioners' decision last week to purchase Hyde's Quarry as a potential water source for Westminster was applauded Monday evening by the Westminster City Council.

Last week the commissioners approved the purchase of the quarry, located off Jasontown Road, as a means of provi... [Read full story]

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Project will reconstruct Hap Baker

After a fire that forced its closure this past February, the rifle range at the Hap Baker Firearms Facility in Westminster is one step closer to being reopened with a $300,000 proposal to rebuild its roof.

A review of the reconstruction project is slated to go before the Carroll County Planning an... [Read full story]

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Paide visitor explores ideas for recreation

Last week, Margit Udam, 31, had her first-ever snow cone -- much to the delight of the students she was with at Common Ground.

The Estonia native has enjoyed many new things during her first trip to the United States, including visiting Washington, D.C. and New York City and eating Vidalia onions ... [Read full story]

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The Eagle & The Owl

The latest Harry Potter book, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," by J. K. Rowling, will hit book stores and libraries July 21, and everyone from young muggles to teen wizards are reserving copies.

Many parents and other adults STILL don't get what the fuss is about, so once again The Eagle is... [Read full story]

Focus on People

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Anniversary Notice

65 years together for Delbert, Margaret Ebeling

Delbert and Margaret Ebeling, formerly of Carroll County, celebrated their 65th Wedding Anniversary this past spring.

The couple, who currently reside in Sandgates, Md., were married on April 11, 1942.

They have four children -- JoAnne, Joyce, Je... [Read full story]

Opinion

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Quarry is investment to help address county vision of growth

Editorial

Last week's approval by the Board of County Commissioners to purchase the 60-acre Hyde's Quarry property is an important step in the evolving strategy to tackle water needs in Carroll County.

The quarry property is seen primarily as a water resource for the City of Westminster, but cou... [Read full story]

Wolf at the Door

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Milking a story does a disservice to farm industry

It's easy to make news.

One way, apparently, is to be Paris Hilton.

Another way, though, is to write an article that's based on a fact, but then expand that article on pure supposition.

Agriculture, because most city dwellers know so little about it, is always a good target.

Case in point is... [Read full story]

For Better or Worse

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Trouble with summer TV is the networks aren't creative enough

It's summertime, and with the sultry weather and backyard barbecues comes another sign of the season:

Summer replacement shows on TV.

In recent years the networks have actually tried to bring us something other than the usual endless hot-weather reruns -- mostly because research showed that nobo... [Read full story]

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[Local news archives]

Kevin E. Dayhoff

Thursday, July 12

How fortunate we are to celebrate the 4th of July As we prepare to celebrate another Fourth of July, let us cherish the fact that we live in a country where we can criticize our government and our leaders – in complete safety with our mouths full, the television remote control in one hand and an iPhone in the other.

Perhaps, as we... [Read full story]

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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]

Community Calendar Thursday, July 12 Worship Notes

Faith in Action greets new coordinator

The Partnership for Healthier Carroll County recently welcomed the Rev. Linda Fernandez as the new program coordinator of Faith in Action Carroll County Neighbors Helping Neighbors.

The program is a volunteer caregiving program to support a network of indiv... [Read full story]

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Senior Scene Westminster Senior Center, 125 Stoner Ave., Westminster, will host the following events. A well-balanced meal is served daily at 11:30 a.m. The cost for the meal is a donation up to $3.48 for seniors 60 years and older; for those under 60 years the cost is $3.48. Reservations for lunch must be mad... [Read full story]

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Community Calendar

ARTS

Common Ground on the Hill will present Summer Concert Week at the Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Center St., this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, July 11, 12 and 13, with the following performances. Cost is $10 for adults; $5 children 12 and under.

*Wednesday, July 11, 7 p.m., Bob Franke and... [Read full story]

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20070711 The Davis Library part 2

20070711 The Davis Library part 2

“The continuing odyssey of the Library”

The Davis Library part 2 (See also: 20070627 Davis Library part 1)

Westminster Eagle

July 11, 2007 © by Kevin Dayhoff (669 words – as filed)

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

Historically, folks in Carroll County are known for coming together to overcome adversity and make things happen for the greater public benefit. We are traditionally strong-willed self-reliant individuals who cherish private-public partnerships, with little emphasis on having the government do anything that the community could not do for ourselves.

Much of the public infrastructure that we have come to take for granted as a function of government has its roots in private individual endeavor or is the direct result of philanthropy.

So, it should come as no surprise that (to the best of our knowledge) the first library in Carroll County was a private initiative born at the height of the Civil War – in September 1863. Nancy Warner states in her book, “Carroll County Maryland – A History 1837-1976,” the “Westminster Library” was incorporated under the direction of seven uncompensated managers.

In the beginning “it was open to the public on Friday afternoons at the Odd Fellow’s Hall” – now known as Opera House Printing Company, at 140 East Main Street.

Ms. Warner cites a September 1863 article in the “American Sentinel:” “The first fifty books were presented by a lady of this place… Presently, (there are) nearly 300 volumes…”

The article goes on to say something which identifies the spirit of our county: the “Motto of the Board is ‘nil desperantum’ – they will continue their exertions until the institution is a success.”

A brief word about the Odd Fellow’s Hall. According to Chris Weeks’ book, “The Building of Westminster,” the hall is located on what “was the site of Jacob Mathias’ tanyard, shop, and residence” before he sold it for $375.00 in 1854.

According to Ms. Warner, the building was dedicated in 1858. At the time, it was “the largest building in town except the court house…”

The Odd Fellow’s Hall is a storied place that is involved with much of Carroll County’s history and tradition of moving the ball forward. Ms. Warner notes that over the years, it has “provided rooms for a printing press, schools, libraries, an oyster saloon, plays, club meetings, concerts, and lectures in the nineteenth century, plus movies and a (sewing) factory in the early twentieth century.”

It is also little known that the famed national leader and orator, Frederick Douglass once spoke at the Odd Fellow’s Hall. Ms. Warner notes an October 13, 1870 “American Sentinel” account of his address in which it would appear that he was well received.

It is only appropriate that the hall was a part of yet another civic improvement in our community – a library.

It is believed that the “Westminster Library” remained at the Odd Fellow’s Hall from its beginning during the Civil War until 1911. According to the minutes of the “Davis Library” organizational meeting on January 7, 1949, provided by my Babe Ruth league baseball coach, Neal Hoffman; the library “first occupied part of the Times building (61-65 East Main Street) in 1911, later moving to the Wantz Building, then back to its present location in the Times building in 1936.”

The minutes also reflect, the “existing library cannot be called a ‘free’ library in the true sense, since the books when new are put on a rental shelf for a limited time before they are made available on a free basis.”

The minutes begin by stating that the purpose of the January 1949 meeting was “in the interest of providing more adequate library services in Westminster, at the invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Walter H. Davis…”

“… (N)ine residents of the city met at the (Davis) home at , 112 East Main St… Those present were Walter H. Davis, John A. Bankert, Norman B. Boyle, Carroll L. Crawford, Ralph G. Hoffman, K. Ray Hollinger, Samuel M. Jenness, George K. Mather, and Gerald E. Richter.”

And here is where we will bookmark this story until the next chapter.

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster Maryland USA.

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20070627 Davis Library part 1
20070711 The Davis Library part 2

20070711 Westminster Eagle Community Calendar

Westminster Eagle Community Calendar

07/11/07

Email this story to a friend

For more Westminster and Carroll County community news go to the Westminster Eagle web site.

ARTS

Common Ground on the Hill will present Summer Concert Week at the Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Center St., this Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, July 11, 12 and 13, with the following performances. Cost is $10 for adults; $5 children 12 and under.

*Wednesday, July 11, 7 p.m., Bob Franke and Caroline Doctorow, singer songwriters, with Antion, Hawaiian chant and song, and Michael Chapdelaine, acoustic guitar master.

*Thursday, July 12, 7 p.m., Blues Night, with Andy Cohen, Ernie Hawkins, Walter Liniger, Harry Orlove and Jesse Palidofsky.

*Friday, July 13, 7 p.m., Maryland Playback Theater Workshop Performance with Jack Gladstone, Native American songwriter; Bryan Bowers, autoharp master; and D.C. Bluegrass Union All-Stars with Tony Trischka, banjo master.

The movie, "Fly Away Home," will be presented as part of the Kids' Summer Movie Series at Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster, on Thursday, July 12, at 1 p.m. Cost is $4 adults; and $3 for CCAC members, seniors 60 and over and children 12 and under.

The Carroll Players are holding auditions in July for the fall production, "Leading Ladies." Those interested in auditioning may call 410-876-2220 for availability. Performances will be at the Carroll Arts Center, Oct. 12-20.

The rock 'n roll band, Truth 'N Tempest, will perform at Belisimo's Restaurant in Finksburg on Saturday, July 14, beginning at 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit a college fund. Tickets are $5 each.

Yesterday's News -- a four-piece rock 'n roll band offering a tribute and throwback to the roots of rock and roll, will perform as the next installment of the Month of Sundays concert series at Westminster City Park, Sunday, July 15, at 6:45 p.m. The concerts are free. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Residents are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and picnics. The national anthem will be sung by Charity Smith, 25, an employee of Cactus Willie's Restaurant.

Bronze and wood will come together in a concert featuring harp and handbells with the group, Bronzewood Paedeia, on Tuesday, July 17, at 7:30 p.m., at Springfield Presbyterian Church, 7300 Spout Hill Road, Sykesville. Admission is free, but an offering will be taken with a suggested donation of $10 per person. Call 410-795-6152.

The movie, "The Big Chill," will be presented at Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster, on Thursday, July 19, at 7 p.m. Cost is $5 adults; and $4 for CCAC members, seniors 60 and over and children 12 and under.

The movie, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," will be presented at Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St., Westminster, on Friday, July 20, at 9 p.m. Cost is free. This special screening will end with the release of the newest Harry Potter book at midnight. Call 410-386-4490, Ext. 739. Sponsored by the Carroll County Public Library.

EVENTS

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 467, 519 Poole Road, Westminster, is open for lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday and 5-8 p.m. for dinner on Friday. Open to the public. Call 410-848-9888. Each meal comes with two sides and rolls. The dinner schedule is as follows, with other menu items available:

*July 13, crab cakes, $12.

*July 20, spaghetti and salad, $7.

The Civil War Encampment at Union Mills Homestead, Littlestown Pike, will be held Saturday, July 14, and Sunday, July 15, beginning at 10 a.m. both days, rain or shine. The theme of the encampment will center on the aftermath of the "Great Battle." The grounds and gift shop will open at 10 a.m. Guided tours of the Shriver Homestead and Grist Mill will begin at noon. Food will be provided by Kountry Kafe and Katering. Call 410-848-2288.

Cash bingo is held every Friday night at the Sykesville-Freedom District Fire hall, 6680 Sykesville Road (Route 32). Doors open at 6 p.m.; games begin at 7:30 p.m. Food available for purchase; call Rob or Kim, 410-795-6039.

On Saturday, July 14, 7-11 p.m., the Westminster Fire Department will sponsor a Crab Feed and Bull Roast at the firehouse, 28 John St., Westminster. Music will be by "DJ Gary" and the event will be catered by Atlantic Caterers. The menu will include steamed crabs, choice pit beef, turkey breast, country smoked ham, fried chicken, barbecue pork ribbies, hot dogs, baked beans, corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, string beans, fresh fruit bowl, cheese and crackers, fresh veggies & dips, pickled beets, potato salad, tossed salad/dressings, cake, coffee, iced tea, bread, rolls, beer and soda. Tickets are $35 a person. Call 410-848-1800, 410-596-6482 or 410-848-4268.

A Four County Square Dance, will be held Saturday, July 14, 8-10 p.m. at the Westminster Senior Center, 125 Stoner Ave., Westminster. Causual attire. Cost is $5. Call 301-829-2430 or e-mail jgdelagran AT aol.com.

The 125th annual Sunday School picnic at Zion United Methodist Church, 2716 Old Washington Road, Westminster, will be held Saturday, July 14, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. The event includes food including fried chicken platters, entertainment until 7 p.m., and a flea market and craft sale, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Vendor space is available at $10. Mail a request to Zion Sunday School, 528 Hillside Court, Westminster, MD 21157. Call 410-848-9080.

Carroll Area Transit System (CATS) will host its annual golf tournament on Friday, July 20, beginning at 7:30 a.m. at Oakmont Green Golf Club, Hampstead. The event includes a steak luncheon, awards, prizes, trophies and refreshments all day. Individual golfers are $90; sponsorships are available. Call Sandy at 410-857-0080 or 1-866©-304-2287.

Westminster High School's Instrumental Music Boosters group is seeking craft sale and flea market vendors for its second annual craft fair and flea market, to be held Sept. 8, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at Westminster High School, 1225 Washington Road, Westminster. Spaces are $20 (indoors) or $15 (outdoors). Those who sign up before July 31 can choose a location. To reserve a space, call 410-857-9673.

The Gamber and Community Fire Company will host its annual craft show and flea market at the fire hall, Route 32 at Niner Road, on Saturday, July 21, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Raffles, 50/50, food available for purchase. Vendor spaces available. Call 410-795-1478 or e-mail fleamarket AT gambervfd.org.

HISTORY

The Sherman-Fisher-Shellman House, a museum of the Historical Society of Carroll County, at 210 E. Main Street, Westminster, is open for summer hours and guided tours, Wednesdays and Fridays, 1 and 2 p.m.; and Thursdays, 11 a.m. and noon. Group tours are available by appointment. Admission is free for HSCC members; $3 for non-members. Call 410-848-6494 or e-mail hscc AT carr.org.

LIBRARY

Westminster Branch Library, 50 E. Main St., will host the following events. Call the branch at 410-386-4450 or visit the Web site at www.library.carr.org for details.

*Thursday, July 12, 7 p.m., Let's Talk Classics: "The Ones Who Walked Away from Omelas" by Ursula K. Le Guin. For teens, adults. Join a reading and discussion.

*Saturday, July 14, 1 and 2 p.m., Woodworking for Kids and Teens, for ages 7-12; must be accompanied by an adult. Home Depot will present a woodworking project. Participants will build the project from a kit.

*Monday, July 16, 7 p.m., "Purse-Palooza," for adults, teens. Get inspired to create something new or perk up something old. Bring a purse or tote to perk up.

*Monday, July 16, 1 p.m., Reading Road Trip Fun, for ages 7-10. Brush up on your facts about the United States with games, songs, snacks and crafts.

*Wednesday, July 18, 10 a.m., "Uncle Pete: UP with Kids," for all ages. This is a children's interactive musical celebration with live, interactive performances. Registration is under way.

*Friday, July 20, 1 p.m., Bear Branch Nature Center: "Raptors," for children ages 7 and older. A naturalist from Bear Branch will introduce guests to a few of the hawks, owls and other birds of prey spending time at the center.

*Friday, July 20, 8:30 p.m., Harry Potter Movie Party, held at the Carroll Arts Center. Come dressed as your favorite character and maybe win a prize in the costume contest. Enjoy cake and refreshments and see a showing of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire."

Parenting

Moms on the Move will host the following events. For details and membership information, call Angela at 410-552-0064.

Friday, July 13, 7 p.m., Moms-Only "Murder Mystery Night" at a member's home.

*Wednesday, July 18, noon, swimming at Westminster City Pool, 325 Royer Road, Westminster.

*Thursday, July 19, 2:30-4 p.m., visit to South Mountain Creamery, 8303 Bolivar Road, Middletown, for a tour.

The Westminster MOMS Club will meet on Tuesday, July 24, 10 a.m. at the Church of the Ascension, 23 N. Court St., Westminster. Call 401-871-2466 or e-mail moms_club_west AT yahoo.com.

PATH (Parents at Home) of Westminster will host a "Water, Water, Everywhere" social on July 27, at Dutterer Park in Westminster, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Kids can enjoy playground play, then cool off with water games. Bring a spray bottle, bucket and sponge or squirting toy. Drinks and snacks provided. Contact Amy at abaldrich4@yahoo.com or Brenda at 410-751-2450. Rain date is July 30.

Pleasant Valley Playgroup, a support group for stay-at-home moms and dads and children up to age 5, meets 10 a.m.-noon Thursdays at St. Matthew's United Church of Christ, 1427 Pleasant Valley Road, Westminster. No fees or dues. Call 410-848-6384.

Politics

Carroll County Democratic Club's summer picnic will be held Sunday, July 22, 2 p.m., at Union Mills Lions' Club Park, next to Union Mills Homestead on Littlestown Pike. All are welcome; free to dues paying members, others $10. Drinks, hot dogs and burgers will be provided. Guest speaker will be Andrew Duck, Iraq War veteran and candidate for Maryland's 6th District Congressional seat in 2008. RSVP to 410-848-0218 by July 14. Dues are $10; $20 per family.

Niner Old-Fashioned Sunday Dinner and political fund-raiser will be held Sunday, July 29, 1-4 p.m. at Dean's Restaurant, 832 S. Main St., Hampstead. Tickets are $20; or $10 for children 10 and under. Reservations due by July 21. Call 410-374-5174 or e-mail williamniner AT hotmail.com. Mail checks to William Niner For You, P.O. Box 339, Hampstead, MD 21074.

SUPPORT

Carroll County Holistic Network will meet July 17, 7-8:30 p.m., at the Westminster Senior Activities Center, 125 Stoner Ave., Westminster. Speaker will be Mike Smith, discussing, "Stress Reduction through Oneness." Free. E-mail KarenACCE AT aol.com

The Fibromyalgia/Arthritis Support Group will meet today, Wednesday, July 11, 7 p.m. at The Women's Place, 291 Stoner Ave., Westminster, for a Caring & Sharing program, plus a section from the Self-Help Course. Call 410-871-6161.

Celebrate Recovery, for those with hurts, habits and hangups, meets Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Westminster Church of Christ, at the corner of Route 97 (Littlestown Pike) and Lamb Drive. Call Gary Pearson at 410-848-1064.

Sober, Starting Over Alcoholics Anonymous meets 1 p.m. on Tuesdays in Westminster. Go to www.d9mdaa.org.

TRIPS

The North Carroll Senior and Community Center Site Council will sponsor a trip to Ride the Rails in West Virginia, Oct. 17-19. The trip includes two nights lodging at the Canaan Valley Resort, two breakfasts and two dinners, train rides through the Appalachian Mountains on three trains with various stops. The cost is $365 per person, double occupancy. Payment is due by July 17. All seniors who participate in trips must fill out intake forms at the North Carroll Senior Center. Call the center at 410-386-3900.

20070711 "90 seconds"

Military Army United States Military Academy (USMA) West Point

"90 Seconds"

July 11^th, 2007

My Tentacle column is up on the web site.

Writing this column was rather poignant for me…

The jarring juxtaposition of visiting the United States Military Academy at West Point and seeing the dedication and sense of service and sacrifice on the hallowed grounds and then to read, on the same day, the sanctimonious twaddle of the New York Times editorial last Sunday, “The Road Home” was enough to make your head spin and spew pea soup…

I had wanted to write a simple “travelogue” of West Point. I just wanted to attempt to capture some of the history, tradition, and grandeur of the storied institution that dates back to 1802 but I was so taken aback by reading the New York Times editorial in the context of just having toured the grounds, that my keyboard was just not having it.

Especially since there is a profound disconnect in reading about the successes, efforts and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform in harms way from the military blogs and what is being reported in the mainstream media.

"90 Seconds" by Kevin E. Dayhoff, July 11, 2007

It was nothing short of cruel irony that I happened to be on a guided tour of the United States Military Academy at West Point on the very day The New York Times editorialized for the United States to unconditionally surrender in Iraq. It was this past Sunday.

The editorial, "The Road Home," opened with this: "It is time for the United States to leave Iraq, without any more delay than the Pentagon needs to organize an orderly exit."

We live in an era where irony rules, the truth is illusory, paradox pervades and the 90-second difference between reality and perception continues to become "curiouser and curiouser."

To witness the impressive grandeur of West Point and the omnipresent homage to past graduates who have fought for our way of life and the freedoms we have come to take for granted - just days after the 4th of July - and then to read the New York Times, just 90 seconds after leaving the post, was mind boggling.

More…

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See Also:

Click here for other posts on Soundtrack about: Military Army United States Military Academy (USMA) West Point

20070711 "90 seconds" or click on http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070711-90-seconds.html

Click here: 20070610 The United States Military Academy at West Point for a number of pictures from my recent visit to West Point… or click here: http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070610-united-states-military-academy.html

20070710 The United States Military Academy at West Point

The United States Military Academy at West Point

July 10^th, 2007

I recently had the opportunity to tour the grounds of the United States Military Academy at West Point.

This is a sample of some of the many pictures I took while touring the grounds…

The video is of West Point from the vantage of a riverboat ride on the Hudson River.

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See Also:

Click here for other posts on Soundtrack about: Military Army United States Military Academy (USMA) West Point

20070711 "90 seconds" or click on http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070711-90-seconds.html

Click here: 20070610 The United States Military Academy at West Point for a number of pictures from my recent visit to West Point… or click here: http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2007/07/20070610-united-states-military-academy.html

20070630 Daily Photoblog - Jim Pullen in the spotlight

Daily Photoblog - - Jim Pullen in the spotlight

June 30, 2007 – posted July 4^th, 2007

Last Saturday, Grammy, Mrs. Owl, and I had dinner at “Legends Café” off Rte 140 in Westminster. We had a great dinner.

On our way out, we noticed that Westminster Police Officer Jim Pullen - who is well known for his “Thurmont Maryland accent,” and which is often mistaken for a special English accent, was on the bulletin board for an eating accomplishment…

Police officer Pullen (he has received a promotion or two since I worked with him in an official capacity… so I am no longer aware of his rank… Professor R1 will need to tell me…) is one of my many favorite officers in the Westminster Police Department – in a department full of common-sense and community oriented police officers that are just wonderful folks with which to work.

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Legends Café is owned by Jim and Amy Fields and is located at 532 Baltimore Blvd., Westminster Maryland, 21157. Their phone number is (410) 871-9599.

Why not give them a try sometime soon. It is not a chain and it is locally owned…

We really enjoyed our meal, the atmosphere and decorations. Our server was attentive and very pleasant.

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20070703 Westminster firefighter has served for 30 years

Westminster firefighter has served for 30 years

News Briefs 07/03/07 Email this story to a friend

Mike Glass, a career engineer Westminster firefighter has served for 30 years

Members of the Westminster Fire Department last week took a moment to honor one of their own, Mike Glass, a career engineer who is celebrating 30 years of service.

As firefighters gathered around over sandwiches and ice cream cake, Westminster Fire Department Chief Jeff Alexander presented Glass with a plaque.

Chief Alexander noted that in 30 years Glass has seen "many changes, but through it all we could always count on Mike to be there."

Glass remarked that "it had been a pleasure" to serve all those years as he immediately fielded questions as to whether or not he would put in another 30 years.

At that point, members of the department could not help but mistake the otherwise serious ceremony for a roast.

Glass took some good-natured ribbing as stories of his three decades began to unfold. Glass, who was accompanied by his wife, Nancy, seemed to be able to give and good as he got.

One member was overheard to say, "Thirty years, wow, that's a long time. How did ya do it?"

"It wasn't easy. It wasn't easy," said Glass. "Now let's get back to work."

-- Kevin E. Dayhoff

20070703 City street department walking the streets

City street department walking the streets

Westminster Eagle

07/03/07 By Kevin E. Dayhoff

Westminster Street Department employees pause for a picture by the City’s new 2007 10-ton International multi-purpose diesel dump truck on June 15^th, 2007. Photo by Caroline Babylon

When they are not operating equipment such as this you may very well find them walking the street.

Members of the Westminster Street Department include:

Larry Bloom, Butch DuVall, Bubba Strawsburg, Don Hann, Larry Pitinger, Michael Pupaza, Pat Walsh, Billy Walsh, John Robertson, John Linthicum, Hank Jarrell and Shawn Lockert.

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If you've been out and about in Westminster in the wee hours of the morning near the playground and City Hall, you may have noticed a group of burly men walking together.

Recently the Westminster Street Department employees began "trying to do a wellness campaign," and have been walking a mile just before work two days a week, according to Larry Bloom, Westminster's superintendent of Parks, Buildings and Streets.

"We're trying to encourage the employees to be healthier," said Bloom. "Hopefully the city will see a reduction in our health insurance premiums as a result."

"We have a mile course laid out that takes us by city hall and around the playground and back," he said.

Showing off a picture of a grandchild, department employee Butch Duvall said, "hopefully exercise will keep me around longer to watch this little one grow up. Exercise helps; gives ya more energy for the day and wakes the body up. I ain't gettin' no younger."

Bubba Strawsburg, too, said he wanted "to get in shape," but coworker John Robertson Sr. rolled his eyes and said, "Some of 'em jog."

Bloom said members of the department would like to walk three days a week, but right now it's two.

Another employee, who asked not to be identified, said Westminster City Administrator Marge Wolf was scheduled to join the group, but so far has been a "no-show."

When reached for an explanation, Wolf pledged that she's "going to do it too," but hasn't been able to work it in her schedule.

She also said she usually walks with her dog and the dog would be annoyed if she walked without it.

But one employee responded that Wolf's dog, too, "is welcome to join us."

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