THOSE wonderful wildflowers along the median strips of this state's highways have sparked an outpouring of positive responses from motorists.
Last year, the state planted 100 acres of flowers along Maryland highways, roadsides, scenic overlooks, information centers and main entrances to the state. The State Highway Administration added 115 acres this year.
Some comments on these beautification efforts:
"I have enjoyed (the flowers along the median areas of Interstate 83 from Hunt Valley to Mt. Carmel Road) so much that I really felt the 'planter' needed some recognition and appreciation. Those flowers really make my day when I pass them!"
"Our first frost will soon settle on us, ending the colorful display we Carroll Countians have enjoyed over the past several months in traveling past the wildflower plantings. Our office has been pleasantly besieged all summer with citizen compliments on the plantings."
"In my journey through life, I have found that things usually get worse -- traffic, pollution, crime, even common courtesy. But I have lived to see at least one unexpected and delightful improvement. I am speaking of the famous point of land between Connecticut Avenue and Kensington Parkway at the intersection of Jones Bridge Road.
"Your landscape architects, horticulturists and gardening crew have turned an eyesore into a garden spot. As an added bonus, the beautification project has caused a marked decrease in trash thrown from passing cars."