I'm handing out Christmas gifts today that I hope will come in handy in 1995. If you aren't among the recipients, don't feel bad. In this case, it's truly better to give than receive.
To Susan B. Gray: A townhouse in Columbia where she can mix with the little people.
To Charles I. Ecker: An apology from Ms. Gray, who mounted one of the nastiest campaigns in memory in an attempt to unseat the popular executive. Throughout, Mr. Ecker remained civil. He's a nice guy who deserves his reputation.
To C. Vernon Gray: A title that counts. The former County Council chairman is now virtually powerless on his home turf. Perhaps his friend, the governor-elect, will come through with a job suitable to Mr. Gray's talents.
To the Rouse Co.: Mass transit in Columbia. Without a true transit system linking other urban centers to New Town, there will never be a downtown Columbia, at least not in the traditional sense. After 28 years of trying, Columbia's founding corporation hasn't been able to give its town center that distinctive zing.
To the Black Student Achievement Program: A reprieve. I hope the New Year brings purpose to this good idea gone bad. There may yet be an important role the BSAP can play in the future. I'm willing to put the past behind us and try.
To the Proponents of ballot Question B: A new issue. Despite their success in getting their anti-growth referendum passed, this is a group in jeopardy of boring the public to tears. When they've finished explaining to everyone what a "floating zone" is and why it's so important, maybe they'll turn their attention to something that matters.
To Howard County General Hospital: Heartfelt gratitude for brightening this holiday season with a family event that's a good cause to boot. The hospital's Symphony of Lights display is a surprise delight that is drawing huge crowds to downtown Columbia. Proceeds from the exhibition will go to benefit the hospital's maternal and child care programs.
To Superintendent Michael E. Hickey: Politician of the Year award. He doesn't come immediately to mind when pondering the consummate politician, but Howard's soft-spoken superintendent is a master of the art. With the school system growing rapidly and disparate groups competing for resources, he has managed well through a combination of diplomacy and insightfulness. He gets high marks for being a regular guy -- you can catch him shopping at the local supermarket -- and for treating all people the same. And he's not even elected.
To all residents of Howard County: A happy holiday and an even happier New Year.
Kevin Thomas is The Baltimore Sun's editorial writer in Howard County.