Open a book
And peek inside,
Come along for
A magical ride.
You can go to Egypt,
Or maybe Spain --
Ride a boat,
Or a flying train.
See a tiger sleep.
Hear a lion roar.
Take a look
At books galore.
Take a trip
To outer space.
Win an Olympic
Dogsled race
Books can be
So much fun.
Why don't you
Try reading one?
-- Elizabeth Gray
The poem above, written by 12-year-old Elizabeth Gray, a sixth-grade student at Oakland Mills Middle School, won a second-place award in the 10- to 13-year-old category and was published in Hopscotch magazine.
Designed to interest girls from 6 to 12, the international magazine receives hundreds of entries for each of its writing contests; winners are selected from two age categories.
The poem is delightful and carries a message for parents, too.
During this preholiday shopping time, parents and friends might want to browse a bookstore for interesting and lasting gifts.
Elizabeth's talent is a mirror image of her mother, Karen's, writing interests.
One of Ms. Gray's articles has also been accepted by Hopscotch, but will not be published until 1996.
Boys are going to have equal opportunity, too. Beginning next year, Boys' Quest will be published by Buffton News and Printing Co., too, and will offer contests for boys from 6 to 13.
*
The Other Barn's Reading Center, Oakland Mills Village Center, invites adults to join book discussions the third Wednesday of each month.
"The Shipping News" and "Dancing Wu Li Masters" have been selected for the 7:30 p.m. session Jan. 18.
Science-fiction buffs are invited to call 730-4610 or (301) 596-5237 or sign up at the Other Barn for a second discussion group that will be scheduled if interest is warranted.
"Story Times for Children" continues at the Oakland Mills Reading Center.
The four-week series begin Jan. 3 and Jan. 5. Storytelling is at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
The fun times are free, but registration is required: 730-4610 or (301) 596-5237.
*
When you are writing your New Year's resolutions, why not plan community volunteer time?
Domestic Violence Center of Howard County is offering a two-weekend (30 hours) crisis intervention training for Helpline Counselors beginning Jan. 21.
Qualifications? Men and women over 21 who have four hours a week to share with a team that is trying to eliminate domestic violence and help its victims in Howard County. Call 997-0304 weekdays after 9 a.m.
*
Oakland Mills village residents who are interested in reviewing the proposed striping plan for Stevens Forest Road proposed by the Howard County Department of Public Works are invited to stop at the Other Barn to see the draft plan that is on display in the lobby.
The striping plans are in response to numerous traffic safety complaints from Oakland Mills residents.
Reminder: due to holiday closure schedule, visit the Other Barn before Saturday or after Jan. 1. Information: 730-4610 or (301) 596-5237.
*
Columbia's Ice Rink, Oakland Mills village, has a holiday schedule for the skaters who will have extra holiday time to devote to their sport: Monday through Dec. 30 and Jan. 1 and 2 from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Rental skates are available, and the gift shop has many of the items skaters would love to receive for their holiday gifts. Information: 730-0321.
*
Owen Brown village's Supreme Sports Club's holiday hours are from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday; 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 31; and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. New Year's Day.
Remember to inquire about the club's holiday camps for children ages 3 to 10, and KidSports class coupons are wonderful stocking stuffers. Gift certificates for adults also are available. Information: 381-5355.
*
Schools' winter break begins next week. Drivers, be especially cautious and careful of the children. They are excited about school parties and special events as well as the holidays. When near a school area, drive slowly; be alert for children --ing across streets.
Remember that all vehicles must stop for a school bus on an undivided street or highway. All vehicles must stop when traveling in the same direction as the school bus on a divided street or highway.
Be cautious at home, too. Holiday decorations sometimes require lighting. Do not overload outlets and extension cords. "Fireproof" your Christmas tree, (not an exact science but it helps). Turn lights off when not at home. Be sure lighted candles are not near flammable decorations.
And a note of caution: keep mistletoe berries and poinsettia plants out of the reach of children and pets because both plants are poisonous.
Happy holidays to everyone!