Might be a few glitches or items missing. Should be back to normal soon.
Thanks!
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
the blog is under construction
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
sewage in county streams: stay away
Examiner: Baltimore County authorities are warning residents to avoid contact with two local streams after about 17,000 gallons of sewage overflowed this weekend.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
graduation requirements to be debated
Sun: The state school board is expected to begin two days of a marathon debate this morning over whether to make the High School Assessments a graduation requirement.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Nearly new sale at GBMC going on now
Greater Baltimore Medical Center
6701 N. Charles Street
Baltimore, MD 21204
Phone: 410-828-9467
Twice each year, GBMC volunteers devote their time and effort to the hospital's semi-annual Nearly New Sale, a most successful fund-raising event that contributes all of its proceeds back to the Health System. And, twice each year, GBMC employees, volunteers, and the general public get an opportunity to buy treasures, trinkets, and necessities from furniture, clothing, jewelry and silver to appliances, sporting goods, toys and games, and much more -- all at nominal prices. Past sales have resulted in raising more than $250,000 annually.
hours, dates and details here
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Armed robbery and burglary attempt in 21212
10-26-07 Armed Robbery
Atlantic Cleaners 718 Walker Avenue 21212
The suspect entered the business and asked if they were hiring.
The suspect displayed a black and grey
semi-automatic handgun and demanded cash.
The suspect obtained cash from the victim and fled on foot E/B on
Walker Avenue.
Attempt 2nd Degree Burglary
Gotti’s Salon 6715 York Rd. 21212
An unknown suspect used a tool to
pry the front door of the business.
The door and deadbolt was damaged but
entry was not gained.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Monday, October 29, 2007
Less Homework, More Yoga, From a Principal Who Hates Stress
Interesting article about a move to reduce stress among students. That is one of my fears about the public (and some private) schools -- even though they are good, it seems kids are pushed a lot and I worry that they will focus more on jumping through hoops than they will on actual learning and developing a sense of curiosity and imagination (which, as the Einstein quote goes, is more important than knowledge).
New York Times: ... Mr. Richards is just one principal in the vanguard of a movement to push back against an ethos of super-achievement at affluent suburban high schools amid the extreme competition over college admissions. He has joined like-minded administrators from 44 other high schools and middle schools — most in the San Francisco Bay Area but others scattered from Texas to New York — to form a group known as S.O.S., for Stressed Out Students.
The group was formed four years ago by Denise Pope, a lecturer at the Stanford University School of Education and author of the book, “Doing School: How We Are Creating a Generation of Stressed Out, Materialistic and Miseducated Students” (Yale University Press, 2001). ...
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
consumer-safety agency asks for less power to keep consumers safe
This blows my mind. In the wake of millions of toys recalled for lead paint, the Bush administration is fighting a law that would give the Consumer Protection Agency more power. They also oppose a ban on lead in toys. Might as well rename the agency the Corporation Protection Agency.
New York Times: WASHINGTON, Oct. 29 — The top official for consumer product safety has asked Congress in recent days to reject legislation that would strengthen the agency that polices thousands of consumer goods, from toys to tools. ...
[The head of the agency] opposes provisions that would increase the maximum penalties for safety violations and make it easier for the government to make public reports of faulty products, protect industry whistleblowers and prosecute executives of companies that willfully violate laws. ...
full story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Saturday, October 27, 2007
State orders Sparrows Point mill to cut grit
Sun: State environmental officials have ordered the company that operates the steel plant at Sparrows Point to take steps to contain an industrial grit that has been raining on southeastern Baltimore County neighborhoods.
Responding to complaints about the airborne steel-making byproduct known as kish, the Maryland Department of the Environment found International Steel Group-Mittal Steel N.V. in violation of air emissions regulations. The first step ordered by environmental officials would require the company to repair holes in a building that is to contain the material but was damaged by an explosion last summer. (Mill is appealing) story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Roadside bomb kills Upper Marlboro soldier, 52, in Iraq
Sun: A 52-year-old soldier from Upper Marlboro has been killed in Iraq, the Department of Defense announced yesterday, making him the war's oldest military fatality from Maryland. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Call for slots referendum
The Sun: Gov. Martin O'Malley proposed yesterday a referendum on slots that would allow up to 15,000 machines in five Maryland locations - including Baltimore - and hand the decision to voters after years of legislative deadlock.
"It's time to let the people decide," O'Malley said, adding that he personally would vote for slots in a referendum. ... story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
The Evangelical Crackup
A fascinating story from the New York Times about the political split in the evangelical world. It includes mention of a book I'm reading now called "What's the Matter with Kansas?" by Thomas Frank, which discusses the way that the Republican party has (or had) taken over the religion banner and convinced people to vote against their own economic interests in favor of stopping abortion and gay marriage. (We'll vote with you on social issues, while we screw you over by also voting for the interests of corporations over farmers and blue-collar workers, etc.)
NYT: ... Just three years ago, the leaders of the conservative Christian political movement could almost see the Promised Land. White evangelical Protestants looked like perhaps the most potent voting bloc in America. They turned out for President George W. Bush in record numbers, supporting him for re-election by a ratio of four to one. Republican strategists predicted that religious traditionalists would help bring about an era of dominance for their party. Spokesmen for the Christian conservative movement warned of the wrath of “values voters.” James C. Dobson, the founder of Focus on the Family, was poised to play kingmaker in 2008, at least in the Republican primary. And thanks to President Bush, the Supreme Court appeared just one vote away from answering the prayers of evangelical activists by overturning Roe v. Wade.
Today the movement shows signs of coming apart beneath its leaders. It is not merely that none of the 2008 Republican front-runners come close to measuring up to President Bush in the eyes of the evangelical faithful, although it would be hard to find a cast of characters more ill fit for those shoes: a lapsed-Catholic big-city mayor; a Massachusetts Mormon; a church-skipping Hollywood character actor; and a political renegade known for crossing swords with the Rev. Pat Robertson and the Rev. Jerry Falwell. Nor is the problem simply that the Democratic presidential front-runners — Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator Barack Obama and former Senator John Edwards — sound like a bunch of tent-revival Bible thumpers compared with the Republicans. ... full story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
interesting group working on family issues
The MomsRising Organization
"Despite all the rhetoric about being family-friendly, we have structured a society that is decidedly unfriendly... What's missing now is a movement. What's missing now is an organization. That's why MomsRising is so important." -- Senator Barack Obama, 9/28/06
Shocking but true: There is deep bias against mothers in America today. One study found mothers are 44% less likely to be hired than equally qualified non-mothers, and are offered an average of $11,000 lower starting salaries. Another study found women without children make 90 cents to a man’s dollar, mothers make 73 cents, and single mothers make about 60 cents to a man’s dollar.
This begins to explain why there are so many women and children living in poverty, and why there are so few women in leadership. ...MomsRising has a goal of bringing millions of people, who all share a common concern about the need to build a more family-friendly America, together as a non-partisan force for 2008 and beyond. ... go to website
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Friday, October 26, 2007
Dear Prudence
Hi Prudence,
I'm an office manager at a very small company, where I work with three other girls. In short, I am much smarter than my co-workers. ... more
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
What to do if you're attacked by angry monkeys
Slate: The deputy mayor of New Delhi, India, fell off his balcony and died Sunday after being attacked by monkeys, his family members say. The city has around 10,000 monkeys, some of which have taken to roaming through government buildings as they steal food and rip apart documents. What should you do if monkeys are picking on you? story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
more on the school-construction issue
Letters to the editor in the Towson Times:
Mays Chapel residents lack compassion and knowledge
The residents of Mays Chapel say they need more information about the proposed building of a special-needs school in their community ("Mays Chapel school plan low on details," Oct.17 ). Perhaps this will help:
1. The Board of Education has owned the land in question since 1986. It doesn't belong to the neighborhood association.
2. The land was purchased so a school could be built when it became necessary. It is now necessary. ... more from this letter and others here
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Thursday, October 25, 2007
White Marsh mall is annoying
They need more directories so you don't have to wander. Wandering is particularly horrible there because you are constantly accosted by the Cart People who want you to try their stuff. It's like Tailhook but with lotions and gutter guards.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Stealing Life; the crusader behind "The Wire"
The New Yorker: On a muggy August afternoon in Baltimore, trash scuttled down Guilford Avenue, the breeze smelling like rain and asphalt. It was the last week of shooting for the fifth and final season of the HBO drama “The Wire,” and the crew was filming a scene in front of a boarded-up elementary school. ... story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
the latest recalls
1. Children's Metal Jewelry Recalled By WeGlow International Due to
Risk of Lead Exposure
2. Dollar Tree Stores Inc. Recalls Children's Jewelry Due to Risk of
Lead Exposure
3. Serious Head Injuries Prompt Recall of Bumbo Baby Sitter Seats - New
Warnings and Instructions to Be Provided To Consumers
4. Fisher Price Recalls Go Diego Go Boat Toys Due to Violation of Lead
Paint Standard
5. Jo-Ann Stores Expands Recall of Children's Toy Garden Tools Due to
Violation of Lead in Paint Standard
6. DecoPac Inc. Recalls Football Bobble Head Cake Decorations Due to
Violation of Lead Paint Standard
7. Family Dollar Stores Recalls Halloween Pails Due to Violation of
Lead Paint Standard ... details for all here
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Wells Discount Liquors wine sale is coming up
Oct. 31 - Nov. 5
"Buy two (2) 750ml bottles of the same wine at the regular price and get the second bottle for 50% off the regular price. In stock items only, no special orders, no sale items, you cannot combine this sale with any other coupon or sale, prior sales are excluded, and there are no limits on quantities."
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Preemptive Memorial Honors Future Victims Of Imminent Dam Disaster
The Onion: Officials in California dedicated the Folsom Dam Memorial, which will honor the nearby residents that will die when the faulty dam fails. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
College-tuition hikes
Examiner: Students at Maryland’s public universities could face double-digit tuition increases, and colleges might be forced to cut faculty and programs as the result of a possible $110 million reduction in state aid. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Schools report progress in qualified teachers
Sun: The Baltimore County school system has, during the past five years, steadily increased its corps of "highly qualified" teachers and bolstered its hiring of minorities for its classrooms, according to a report released during last night's school board meeting. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Three area students treated for staph infections
Sun: Students in two more school systems in the Baltimore area have been diagnosed with a form of staph infection that is resistant to antibiotics, school officials confirmed yesterday. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Rodgers Forge parents show support for new school
Sun: Rodgers Forge Elementary parents pleaded with Baltimore County school board members last night to stay the course on plans to build a school in the Mays Chapel area to help alleviate crowding at schools in the Towson area. story
[I see no mention of the board's reaction or anything from public officials on whether this will be moved up on the priority list....?]
Details on the overcrowding issue here.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
important Board of Education meeting tonight
If your child attends or will at some point attend Rodgers Forge Elementary School, please plan to go to the Board of Education meeting tonight (Tuesday, October 23) at 7:30 p.m. in the Education Support Services Building, room 114 on the Greenwood campus on north Charles Street (follow the detour signs on Charles).
Rodgers Forge Elementary enrollment is now at 150% of the building’s capacity. (Stoneleigh is overcrowded, too.)
details here
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
controversy over proposed new school
Here's a letter to the editor in today's Sun regarding protests over a new school in Mays Chapel:
"... The school would be built on less than four acres of a 20-acre site. The Baltimore County Board of Education has owned this land since 1986, and it was always slated to be a school site.
And yet the residents protest, fearing that the remaining 16 acres of parkland won't be enough to allow them to stroll and walk their dogs. It just seems so callous. ... " full letter
And the original Sun article: Residents of the Mays Chapel area of Timonium are unhappy about the Baltimore County school system's plans to build a school for special-education students on the site of the community's popular park. full articleWhat do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Monday, October 22, 2007
Reminder: Board of Educ. meeting tomorrow
Rodgers Forge Elementary is overcrowded and there's a push to fix the situation. Details here.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
A focus on public transit in city plans
Public transportation in this area is a joke. I hope something happens soon to change that.
Sun: They went from a parking garage in Owings Mills to a mall in Northwest Baltimore to an eco-friendly, upscale development in Hampden. The sites, vastly different in character and location, all had one common element: a transit stop, be it a Metro subway or light rail station. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
de-trashifying the harbor
Sun: John Kellett's project will use the Jones Falls' current to move a water wheel that will collect trash and drop it onto a conveyer belt that will load it into a trash bin. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
lunatic fringe protests in Baltimore
I'm a little rusty on my Biblical history, but wasn't it Jesus who coined the phrase, "You fag"? I mean, it sounds like something he'd say, doesn't it? Man, what a bunch of nuts.
Examiner: As parishioners filed in and out of the Baltimore Basilica early Sunday morning, a handful of people stood across Cathedral Street with signs that said “fag church” and labeled the priests as rapists. story
Also, they're in town in the first place because of a lawsuit.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Trader Joe's to stop importing some food from China
Out of concern for safety standards. ... story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Celebrate Cherokee heritage
Joseph Stands With Many: celebrate Cherokee heritage through stories, music and dance at Towson Library. Saturday, Nov. 3 at 11 a.m. in meeting room.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Up with Kids event
Uncle Pete sings and plays guitar at this fun, interactive musical event. Towson Library meeting room. Nov. 10 at 10 a.m.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Crafts for Kids at Towson Library
Nov. 2 at 11 a.m.
Seasonal crafts for ages 6-12. Registration required: 410.887.6166.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Saturday, October 20, 2007
You've got to try Dogwood Deli in Hampden
My friend and I went to Dogwood Deli on The Avenue last night. They have a new (fairly formal) dining room in the basement, and although that doesn't sound so attractive, it was wonderful. The decor is sophisticated but accessible and our server was knowledgeable and charming without being annoying. And the food was perfect. My dining partner is a graduate of an organic cooking school in NYC and she loved it, too.
More info here.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Friday, October 19, 2007
Halloween safety tips from local Citizens on Patrol
Don't Be Afraid Of Halloween. Just Be Aware.
You need not be scared of ghosts and goblins coming to your house on Halloween, just cautious. The Baltimore County Police Department suggests these precautions before you open your door.
It’s easier to leave your front door open with only the storm door closed; please don't. Storm doors are not meant to deter thieves and robbers. Keep your main door locked; don't open it until you looked through a window or your peephole. Open your door to only children and adults you know and recognize.
BCPD advises trick-or-treaters to be aware of their surroundings. Visit only neighbors familiar to you. Remind children not to eat goodies before they are home. When they arrive, parents must check the contents of their children's bags. Look for unwrapped candy, loose pieces of candy and fruit. When checking candy wrappers, look for unusual markings, bumps and bulges. These could be signs of tampering. Throw all unwrapped goodies away. If something appears suspicious, be cautious; get rid of it! (It’s only candy or fruit.)
Some other suggestions:
- Adults, accompany young children, older kids travel in groups.
- Obey all traffic laws. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible and cross only at crosswalks or corners. Never cross between parked cars.
- Don’t get into any vehicles or homes while trick-or-treating. Wait outside for treats.
- Respect other people's property. Don't destroy it.
- Stay in your own neighborhood.
- Parents, make sure masks have large eyeholes. Toddlers may trip and fall at night. If practical, use makeup instead of a mask. Give children flashlights to carry. Flashlights or battery-powered Halloween torches or lamps help them to see well. It makes it easier for others, especially motorists, to see them.
Baltimore County police wish everyone a safe and fun Halloween.
Moving Night Safety Tips from TACOP & BCPD
Take Away The Fun Of Moving Night
The tradition of moving night is not something everyone cherishes. For those not familiar with "moving night," it began years ago as a series of pranks, now it has become just another reason for thieves to steal outdoor furniture and anything that isn't nailed down. Don't be a statistic, play it safe and follow these easy steps.
- Leave all outside lights on all night. Check and replace all burned out bulbs. Remember, the sun sets earlier now.
- Trim all shrubs and trees back for maximum visibility inside and outside.
- Place all outdoor furniture, barbecue grills and other outdoor items in a locked garage, shed or basement. If these are not viable options, use a chain. Lock and attach items to a fence, pole or railing.
- Network with neighbors. Keep an eye on one another's property. It is easier to keep track of activities in your neighborhood if there are many eyes watching.
- Contact your Citizens On Patrol. Ask if there are special plans for Moving Night. You may assist COP by watching for suspicious activity on your street.
- Let Towson Precinct know of suspicious or criminal activities from past years that might occur on your street again this year.
- Call 911 if you see anything suspicious, anyone acting suspicious. When you talk to the dispatcher, explain why you think the activity looks strange. Remember, a group of teenagers is not always looking for trouble. If they are on school grounds or in parks, call 911 immediately. No one is allowed there after dark unless it is a sanctioned activity.
- Lock all vehicles and remove your valuables.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Rodgers Forge Elementary is overcrowded; your help is needed
If your child attends or will at some point attend Rodgers Forge Elementary School, please plan to go to the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, October 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Education Support Services Building, room 114 on the Greenwood campus on north Charles Street (follow the detour signs on Charles).
Rodgers Forge Elementary enrollment is now at 150% of the building’s capacity. (Stoneleigh is overcrowded, too.)
Rodgers Forge Elementary School is one of the most successful schools in Baltimore County and in Maryland. Student enrollment is at 625, a 20% increase over 2006-2007 and 6% greater than the number of students projected for the year 2016!
Baltimore County Public Schools has proposed a solution to the overcrowding at RFES and other area schools: They propose building a new, state-of-the-art special-education school in Mays Chapel, and converting Ridge Ruxton school on Charles back to an elementary school. This would create more than 400 new seats for Central Area elementary school students.
This project has the support of local elected officials. However, this project is number 33 out of 48 on the Board’s list of priorities. In other words, this is not a done deal. There is no guarantee the project will be carried out.
Your participation is needed to make sure a long-term solution to the overcrowding at RFES actually materializes.
By turning out in force at the meeting on Oct. 23, we will show our concern about overcrowding at RFES. Your presence in the room will influence the Board and our elected officials. (And wear your RFES school color: red.) We encourage you to carpool with friends and neighbors.
There is a 30-minute period of the meeting for public comment. You must sign up to speak by 7:25 p.m. Ten people are chosen at random and each can speak for up to three minutes. If you are chosen, you can also designate someone else to speak on your behalf.
Additionally, remind your neighbors who don’t have children that the quality of the school directly influences the overall quality of the neighborhood.
Whether or not you can attend the meeting, send an email to rfescalltoaction@yahoo.com to join the email list and receive updates on the issue.
You can also call or write to the Board directly. Info is at:
http://www.bcps.org/board/
Contacting local representatives is also helpful:
SUSAN L. M. AUMANN
Republican, District 42, Baltimore County
House Office Building, Room 303
6 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-3258
e-mail: susan.aumann@house.state.md.us
fax: (410) 841-3163
WILLIAM J. FRANK
Republican, District 42, Baltimore County
House Office Building, Room 213
6 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-3793
e-mail: william.frank@house.state.md.us
fax: (410) 841-3311
STEPHEN W. LAFFERTY
Democrat, District 42, Baltimore County
House Office Building, Room 306
6 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-3487
e-mail: stephen.lafferty@house.state.md.us
fax: (410) 841-3501
JAMES BROCHIN
Democrat, District 42, Baltimore County
James Senate Office Building, Room 221
11 Bladen St., Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-3648
e-mail: jim.brochin@senate.state.md.us
fax: (410) 841-3643
705 York Road, Towson, MD 21204
(410) 823-7087; fax: (410) 823-7088
JOHN P. SARBANES (Democrat), U.S. Representative, 3rd Congressional District
426 Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515
(202) 225-4016; fax: (202) 225-9219
web: http://sarbanes.house.gov
600 Baltimore Ave., Suite 303, Towson, MD 21204
Phone: (410) 832-8890 Fax: (410) 832-8898
County Executive James T. Smith Jr.
400 Washington Avenue
Old Courthouse Mezzanine
Towson, Maryland 21204
410-887-2450
E-mail Address: jimsmith@baltimorecountymd.gov
Fifth District Councilman Vincent Gardina
Towson Office:
400 Washington Ave.
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 887-3384
(410) 887-5791 (fax)
council5@baltimorecountymd.gov
related article from the Towson Times
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
more recalls
1. Dunkin' Donuts Recalls Glow Sticks Due to Choking and Strangulation Hazards
2. Guidecraft Inc. Recalls Children's Puppet Theaters Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
3. Antioch Publishing Recalls Additional Bookmarks Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
4. Albert's Recalls Halloween Skull Pails Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
details here: www.cpsc.gov
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
bike recalls
1. Formula Brake USA Recalls Disc Brakes for Bicycles Due to Risk of
Failure
2. Huffy Recalls Bicycles Due To Cranks Falling Off; Riders Can Lose
Control of Bike
details: www.cpsc.gov
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
wi-fi arrives at Penn Station
Sun: ... The Wi-Fi setup was established yesterday at Penn Station as well as at four other Amtrak terminals on the Northeast corridor -- Philadelphia's 30th Street Station, Wilmington Station in Delaware, Washington's Union Station and Penn Station in Manhattan. A few signs dotted around the Baltimore station advertised the new service, although most commuters apparently passed them by, oblivious. ... story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Monday, October 15, 2007
Zoo Boo
Sundays at 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and
Saturdays at 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Opens Saturday, October 20
Ends Sunday, October 28
City Paper: Popular annual Halloween celebration featuring free trick-or-treating and candy, costume contest, Creepy Crawly Haunted Barn, Magical Hay Maze, a Haunted Hay Ride, and a Candyland game and craft area. Live entertainment all day in addition to magicians and cartoon characters. Pie eating contest for adults. Parking is free.
410-366-5466
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Thursday, October 11, 2007
H. Clinton and Iran
I'm a fan of Clinton's (and most of the other Dems running), but this is weird.
Maureen Dowd, NYT: ... If you know the dingbat vice president is agitating for a conflict with Iran, if you know that Condi is chasing after Cheney with a butterfly net on Iran and Syria, if you know you can’t believe anything this administration says, why vote to give them more backing on their dysfunctional Middle East policy? ... more
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
flushable wipes not flushable in Rodgers Forge
So, my son uses those flushable toddler wipes in the bathroom. Roto Rooter is here now thanks to a plugged line that was affecting the toilet and tub. The culprit: the wipes. Older homes' pipes have lots of angles, I'm told, and things that claim to be flushable really aren't. A cautionary tale for you, and a lesson learned for me at a cost of about $350.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Sarah Silverman cracks me up
We don't have cable and don't watch much TV, but I heard Sarah Silverman on Fresh Air the other day and it prompted me to check her out on YouTube. This one in particular cracked me up. I'll have to put her show on my Netflix list.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Towson field hockey rebounds
Examiner: It’s not often a team gets a second chance, so Towson’s field hockey team wants to makes sure it doesn’t squander it. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Hunt Valley hotel roof crashes in
Sun: In town from England for her brother's wedding, Esti Angyalfi had just stepped out of her eighth-floor hotel room when, she says, she heard a cracking sound and saw shards of glass raining down on the atrium of the Embassy Suites Hotel in Hunt Valley. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Gore Supporters’ Movement Lacks a Candidate
NYT: With talk of a Nobel Peace Prize in the air and election deadlines looming, supporters of Al Gore have been raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for petition drives and advertising campaigns in a last-ditch effort to draft him into the Democratic presidential primaries. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
"come on people"?
I got a promotional email from Borders today and in it was a blurb about a new book by Bill Cosby and Alvin Poissaint , which is billed as a book about strengthening families and the country. I couldn't help noticing the lack of a comma in the title and the odd phrase created by the omission.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Kids Who Are Picky Eaters
New York Times: For parents who worry that their children will never eat anything but chocolate milk, Gummi vitamins and the occasional grape, a new study offers some relief. Researchers examined the eating habits of 5,390 pairs of twins between 8 and 11 years old and found children’s aversions to trying new foods are mostly inherited.
The message to parents: It’s not your cooking, it’s your genes.
more
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
mystery scavenger hunt at the Zoo, Oct. 13, 14
http://www.marylandzoo.org/news/event-details.aspx?ID=221
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
bike and kids' festival, Oct. 13
City Paper: Grab your bikes and ride. Join Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks, Port Discovery and the Greater Baltimore Urban League for Great Bike Ride and Kids Festival. Bike ride and is open to kids age 4-13. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Patuxent Wildlife Festival, Oct. 13
Events include kids' crafts, live animals, and behind-the-scenes tours of the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center. details at citypaper.com
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Renaissance Festival is almost over
City Paper: You've probably made fun of it and questioned the sanity of its participants, but you may not know what you're missing. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Bowwow Powwow 2007 at Herring Run Park, Oct. 13
Saturday, October 13 at 11 a.m.-3p.m.
City Paper: Dog lovers unite in a fun and safe environment for dogs and their owners to socialize and play. Schedule of events at www.belair-edison.org
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
wine tasting at bin 604, Oct. 13
Saturday, October 13 at 2-3:30 p.m.
(also on 10/27, 11/3 and 11/24 at 2-3:30 p.m. )
(also on 10/27, 11/3 and 11/24 at 2-3:30 p.m. )
Look at the typical characteristics of popular grape varietals and explain the terminology and techniques of wine tasting. 410-576-0444. 604 S. Exeter St.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Balto home sales fall
Sun: Home sales in the Baltimore metro area last month dropped nearly 30 percent from a year earlier, Metropolitan Regional Information Systems Inc. said today. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
B County council follows pit-bull owners' wishes
Examiner: A majority of Baltimore County Council members will likely heed the pleas of pit bull owners protesting a proposal that would require them to keep their dogs muzzled or in cages at all times outdoors, they said Tuesday. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
"no candy" signs to be posted at sex offenders' homes
Examiner story says city police trying to keep kids away from sex offenders.
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Tuesday, October 9, 2007
more recalls
1. Christmas Tree Shops Recalls Glitter Candles Due to Fire Hazard
2. Toshiba Recalls AC Adapters sold with Portable DVD Players Due to Burn Hazard
3. Fluorescent Ceiling Light Fixtures Sold Exclusively at Home Depot Recalled by Lithonia Lighting Due to Shock Hazard
4. Starbucks Recalls Children's Plastic Cups Due to Choking and Laceration Hazards
5. Kahoot Products Inc. Recalls Cub Scouts Totem Badges Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
details www.cpsc.gov
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
The Mom Song
A friend sent me this, and I must admit, it's pretty funny. http://youtube.com/watch?v=anSpBUxsgAU
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Monday, October 8, 2007
Butterfly story at library
City Paper: Wednesday, October 10 at 10:30 a.m.
Witness the birth of a butterfly in this in this interactive face painting story with Stephanie Catlett.
Baltimore County Public Library, Loch Raven minibranch 1046 Taylor Ave. Towson
Baltimore County Public Library, Loch Raven minibranch 1046 Taylor Ave. Towson
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
City is rich in parks, poor in funding
Examiner: As Baltimore fights to curb its crime rate and maintain its infrastructure, the city spends far less per resident on its green spaces than the national average. Though funding has picked up in recent years, park groups say more money is needed. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
B County wants more restrictions on pit bulls
The Sun: Dominic Solesky was playing tag behind his family's Towson rowhouse on a spring afternoon when he heard his friend scream. The 10-year-old boy remembers running down the alley to help his pal. He heard a rattle from a nearby cage -- and then saw a brawny dog jump a fence and head his way. The attack's toll: two surgeries for Dominic and more than two weeks in the hospital. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Sunday, October 7, 2007
rats unable to differentiate between a person speaking Japanese backwards and a person speaking Dutch backwards
Chronicle of Higher Education: Why do sheets wrinkle? Can a bomb turn straight soldiers gay? Will Viagra help hamsters get over jet lag? story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Friday, October 5, 2007
Do-not-call list set to expire
Experts say you should register your phone # again, but not right away. Scroll to bottom of story to get advice: story
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Saratoga Street closing
Sun: Saratoga Street will be closed between Eutaw and Howard streets beginning at 7:30 p.m. today to facilitate BGE underground cable repairs, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation announced.
The closure will remain in effect until 2 a.m. Saturday.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Franchot warns against slots
Sun: Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot warned yesterday that if the General Assembly legalizes slot machine gambling, casinos in downtown Baltimore and "slots in a neighborhood near you" will follow. story
I think slots sound like bad news. What do you think?
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
sleeping guards at atomic power station
Examiner: Guards who had been routinely sleeping on the job at Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station have sparked outrage, raised fears about potential terrorist attacks and prompted an investigation by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The power plant, just over the Harford County line in Pennsylvania, is at the center of a controversy stemming from a whistle-blower’s covert videotape, aired on WCBS in New York, showing guards sleeping just steps from the nuclear reactors. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Thursday, October 4, 2007
GhostWalks in Mt. Vernon and Fells Point
The Mount Vernon GhostWalk -- Baltimore's cultural center may be more "spirited" than you think. History and haunted lore of this striking neighborhood that was home to many of Baltimore's leading citizens.
The Original Fells Point GhostWalk -- Award winning haunted walking tour of Fells Point.
The Original Fells Point Haunted PubWalk -- Duck into haunted taverns and hear tales of the Fells Point neighborhood.
For more information and tickets visit www.baltimoreghosttours.com or call 410-522-7400.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Kids' events at the Harbor
Waterfront Partnership, Inc. presents
Weekends on the Waterfront
WATERFRONT WIGGLE
Get Ready to do the Waterfront Wiggle at West Shore Park (between the
Visitor's Center and the Maryland Science Center)
All events are free!
OCTOBER 6TH – THE KINDERMAN SHOW
Original songs that turns strangers into friends, and gets everybody
to giggle and wiggle and dance, dance, dance!
Toddlercise with Meadow Mill Athletic Club; Music Together
demonstration; crafts with Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland
African American History & Culture
OCTOBER 13TH – NO PROGRAM.
Cheer on the Baltimore Marathon participants!
OCTOBER 20TH – ST. VERONICA'S YOUTH STEEL ORCHESTRA
Close your eyes and think of summer. Sweet steel drum music by local players.
Crafts with the Creative Alliance.
OCTOBER 27TH – MILKSHAKE
Who doesn't love Milkshake? Come see the Milkshake Trio, as seen on
PBS KIDS and Noggin.
Toddlercise with Meadow Mill Athletic Club; crafts with Art With a Heart.
NOVEMBER 3RD – PIRATES FOR SAIL
Ahoy! Explore your inner pirate with music and improv, a splash of
history, and a lot of "piratitude!"
Music Together demonstration; Pirate crafts.
All events are 10:00 am -12:00 pm, and include hands-on fun with
performers from the Maryland Science Center, and arts and crafts
activities.
Come out and see your neighbors around the harbor and make new friends
at West Shore Park's rejuvenated grass and plaza setting in the Inner
Harbor.
For more information about parking visit www.waterfrontpartnership.org
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
MORE lead-paint recalls
WTF????
1. KB Toys Recalls Wooden Toys Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
2. Kids II Recalls Baby Einstein Color Blocks Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
3. Eveready Battery Co. Recalls Toy Flashlights Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
4. Dollar General Recalls Tumblers Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
5. CKI Recalls Children's Decorating Sets Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard; Sold Exclusively at Toys "R" Us
6. Key Chains Recalled by Dollar General Due to Risk of Lead Exposure
7. Antioch Publishing Recalls Bookmarks and Journals Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
8. Sports Authority Recalls Aluminum Water Bottles Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard
details here: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prereloct07.html
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
rally tonight for children's health care
MoveOn.org
Aquarium in Inner Harbor
501 E. Pratt St.
04 Oct, 6:00 PM
Aquarium entrance at Inner Harbor. We'll carry signs and hand out fliers. Children especially welcome.
Address: 501 E. Pratt St.
details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Pick a Stitch, cute personalized baby/kid items
The company's owner will be showing off her goods at the Fells Point Fun Festival this weekend.http://www.pickastitch.com/index.php
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Clinton leads Giuliani in national poll
Fifty-one to 43 percent. Story from the Washington Post.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
For Baltimore, Housing Slump Slows a Revival
New York Times: BALTIMORE — Colorful banners, draped across buildings like giant flags, urge people driving through Baltimore’s rebuilt downtown neighborhoods to move into the new condos and apartments inside. “Sophisticated Urban Living W/Garage and Gated Off-Street Parking” one sign declares in the long campaign to gentrify the central city.
Until recently, the ballyhoo was not much needed. The revival was going well, in Baltimore and in other cities making the transition away from manufacturing. But now, the banners are the most visible evidence of the incipient damage to this major American city from the turmoil in the national economy. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Chocolate Festival
Examiner: The annual Chocolate Festival at Lexington Market in Baltimore will be held today through Saturday. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
porn shops torched?
Examiner: Are people setting fire to Harford adult-entertainment shops to try to drive them out of the county? Owners of some of the porn stores wondered Wednesday. After all, in a nine-month span, arson destroyed three of the shops. story
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
New Yorker
Have you seen this week's New Yorker cover? Made me laugh out loud.
(Not so funny: Seymour Hersh's article about the United States' plans to attack Iran.)
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
might not know it now, baby, but I are
Sun: Hunt Valley Towne Centre will host auditions for singers 18 and older to compete for the title of "Hunt Valley Idol 2007" at 7 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Chuck Thompson Memorial Plaza area, 118-AA Shawan Road. The finals will be held Oct. 13. 410-785-3770. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Batik at Port Discovery
Batik
Every 2nd and 4th Wednesday
9:30 am - 2 pm
Ages 2-7
Batik is an Indonesian-Malay work that refers to a generic wax-resist dying technique that is used on fabrics. This technique has been taught for over a thousand years. Learn about Indonesia and make a batik-like vest of your very own!
Programming for Wonderful Wednesday's have been specifically designed for younger children, ages 2-7.
Please call our Education department for more information at 410-864-2678. web site
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
county may soon get a third choice in cable tv
Sun: Baltimore County residents might soon have a third choice of cable television providers.
Virginia-based Cavalier Telephone Corp. has applied to the government for a license to offer cable service in the county, a company spokesman said yesterday. ...
A Comcast spokeswoman released a statement saying company officials "love our competitive position."
"We continue to offer advanced products and services on a reliable, scalable fiber network that meets our customers' needs," the statement continued.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
new Thai restaurant, review
City Paper review: ... What makes My Thai such a novelty is that this moderation stops at the kitchen door. ...
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Big-Truck Day, Oct. 6
City Paper: Heavy Metal: Big Truck Day
Saturday, October 6 at 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Saturday, October 6 at 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Fun vehicle stuff with big trucks,, the Way Cool Driving School, and MPT's show, Bob the Vid Tech. Rain or Shine. Part of Free Fall Baltimore.
410-396-5565
Baltimore Public Works Museum751 Eastern Ave.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Walters Art Museum activities
Drop-In Art Activities: New Worlds
Saturdays at 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Ends Wednesday, October 31
Saturdays at 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Ends Wednesday, October 31
Learn about Native American culture and mysterious artifacts of the new world, and then create artwork inspired by what you've seen.
410-547-9000
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Bach for Kids, Oct. 6
At the Rawlings Conservatory
Saturday, October 6 at 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon
(also on 10/7 at 1:30-2:30 and 3-4 p.m. )
Saturday, October 6 at 9:30-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-noon
(also on 10/7 at 1:30-2:30 and 3-4 p.m. )
from City Paper: Join a hands-on performance/workshop for ages 6-18, featuring Handel Choir of Baltimore conductor Melinda O'Neal, the Chandos Singers and other guest artists. Participants will learn about J. S. Bach's life and sing a Bach chorale. After the workshop, take a tour of the beautiful gardens.
call to confirm event: 410-396-0008
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Diane Rehm in Baltimore on Oct. 4
A conversation with Diane Rehm, Thursday, October 4, 6:30 pm at the The Center Club. From the Enterprise Women's Network.
The Network is committed to making a difference in people’s lives through advocacy, networking, philanthropy and volunteering. Poverty’s heaviest burdens fall on women and children. Nearly one-third of all children in Baltimore live in households below or near the poverty line, and 55 percent live in high-poverty neighborhoods. More than 54,000 children in Baltimore – 63 percent – live in households headed by women. In our city, over 95 percent of the low-income people Enterprise serves are women.
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
County meetings, info
Baltimore County Community Update - Council District 5
October 2, 2007
-------------------
Updates in this issue:
- Design Review Panel Meeting
- Community Meeting - Former Women's Detention Center
- Troubled Waterlines in York Road Being Addressed
- Seneca Park's Failing Septic Systems Gets Relief
- Water Tank at Chapel Hill Elementary
- Towson Sewers Rehabilitated
- Improvements to Sewer Treatment Plant
- Honeygo Blvd., Phase III B
- Traffic Calming for Hines Road
- Traffic Calming for Kings Ridge Road
- Baltimore County Planning Board Meeting
- Planning Board Citizen Input Meeting on the Capital Program
- Pitch-In for Progress
- Landmarks Preservation Commission Meeting
- DEPRM Variances
- Administrative Variances
- Development Meetings
- Zoning Hearings
You will find a weekly calendar of development- and zoning-related
hearings and meetings for County Council District 5 at
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/MeetingsandEvents/pdm_d5.html
The full newsletter is available at
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/communityupdates/d5/071002d5.html
Previous editions:
http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/agencies/communityupdates/d5/index.html
-------------------
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
Monday, October 1, 2007
Apple Festival, Oct. 4
City Paper:
Sixth Annual Fall Apple Festival
Thursday, October 4 at 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Thursday, October 4 at 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Delicious apple pies, sweet candy apples, tasty apple tarts, and yummy apple dumplings, join Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks and the Women’s Civic League for the “sweetest” event of the year. Enjoy a silent auction, food, arts and crafts, entertainment, and, of course, apples. Plus, tasty homemade apple desserts’ sale. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
concert at Mt. Vernon park
Concerts in the Park: Willy Porter and Mike Errico
Thursday, October 4 at 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Thursday, October 4 at 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Sponsored by City Paper, this outdoor concert features plenty of Brewer's Art beer and other drink and food for purchase. With Woodswork. details
What do you think? Post or read comments here: Comments
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