I am an elected member of a board of directors for a local homeowners association (HOA). I greatly value the opportunity to serve and to share these thoughts on that service. What I say represents my opinion, and nothing I say should be taken as a statement on behalf of the board. At this...
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It’s a classic question — what are your resolutions for the New Year? In Urbana, the responses of community members to the New Year’s question were mixed — ranging from outright denials of the tradition to humorous concessions to last year’s failed resolutions. Some, caught up in the rush of pre-holiday preparations, were genuinely...
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The 2012 election cycle is just getting underway, and most of the focus will be on the presidential and congressional elections. Although 2012 is an off year for state and county offices, there is one important local issue that will be on the November ballot — whether to adopt charter government for Frederick County....
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So, a new year is about to begin. Resolutions abound, sending people in hoards to the gym, while yoga mats and diet and self-help books fly off the shelves. I have a few plans of my own. Among other things, I want to work towards getting organized and bring more balance to my life...
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The postal service has severe financial problems. Among the impacts are the near zero prospect of having a post office built in Urbana. On the other hand, it appears the postal service has renewed interest in additional contractor-operated facilities, as recently opened on West Patrick Street in Frederick. While I operated a business, I...
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As expected, there are differing views on the government’s role, and there will always be tensions on where to allocate taxpayers’ and residents’ funds, be it that some programs or activities benefit a smaller group of people. The Frederick County Commissioners are reviewing all discretionary county programs that require county funding. This review is...
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Reminiscing my childhood days growing up in the Old Village of Urbana, my thoughts wander back to a few places that remain near and dear to my heart. One place in particular is the Peter Pan Inn. This place was like fairyland, and as a child, I thought it had a magical feel with...
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Most people have probably heard the story of Pinocchio, the little wooden puppet who dreamed of one day becoming a real boy. Pinocchio is given a chance at his wish coming true as long as he can stay honest and on the straight path. As the story goes, whenever Pinocchio lies, his nose grows....
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The Frederick County Board of Education (BOE) has begun consideration of the capital budget for fiscal years 2013 – 2018, which begins next July. The Superintendent’s Recommended Educational Facilities Master Plan was released in late August and will be the basis for public hearings in September. There is nowhere near enough money in the...
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By Julie Virnelson There comes a time in every parent’s life when they go from being one of the smartest people on the planet, to a complete imbecile who knows absolutely nothing. This time is called “the teen years.” For those whose children have not yet reached the teen years, those of you who...
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