Parents who are concerned about the amount of violence on television and in the movies, the endless time a youngster is tempted to spend playing noisy video games and the way kids seem to be growing up too fast these days can take heart in some of the alternatives offered right around the corner.
At the Peace Place in New Windsor, on the grounds of the New Windsor Service Center, parents can find all kinds of toys, games, books, and inspirational material to feed the soul, and calm and nourish the minds and hearts of children.
"Buying stuff for your kids should be an extension of your standards," says Tom Hurst, director of the On Earth Peace Assembly and a buyer for the shop's merchandise. "If we [as parents] don't pay attention and just let the kids follow the popular media and culture, then we shouldn't be surprised at what happens."
The shop offers merchandise to "help people with what's inevitable -- conflict and problems," says Mr. Hurst. The selections, from books, T-shirts and posters to games and toys and a full-blown curriculum for teachers, help people confront such problems as drug abuse, split families, or an ill grandparent when they don't know what to do.
The Peace Place, next to the service center's gift shop, offers basic, creative playthings from marbles and tie-dye kits to face painting and origami instructions.
Wooden toys and puzzles, toddler-size chairs, mobiles, flower seeds to plant indoors or out, and a Spelling Bee Book offer hours of joyous and productive activities for parents, baby sitters, grandparents and children alike.
Cookbooks representing cuisine from around the world, inspirational posters and books, coffee mugs, Nicaraguan greeting cards and tips on being a parent are among the selections.
fTC Parents of preteens might want "What Preteens Want You to Know," by Ryan Holladay and friends.
A boon to teachers might be an extensive teaching curriculum on conflict resolution, global awareness, self-esteem, tolerance and alternatives to violence.
If what you're looking for isn't on the shelves, Mr. Hurst or his assistant, Jean Frittz, can probably locate what you need.
Even the shop's setting reflects a peaceful mood. The store has a small pond in one corner, with reading chairs. News clippings and memorable phrases are taped to the walls. It's a quiet place and a nice antidote to the hyperactivity of a mall.
Information: 635-8704.
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Jeanne Bowers, president of Runnymede Elementary School's PTO, says that folks who attend the March Madness Festival on March 11 have lots to do.
In addition to the usual games, the event will include face painting, mask making, gingerbread people decorating, a raffle of goodies and gifts donated by teachers, and an appearance by clown Dee Muskin, the school's guidance counselor, "who does everything for us," Mrs. Bowers says.
The event will be held at the school at 3000 Langdon Drive. It's the first spring festival for northwest Carroll's newest school. Information: 751-1177.
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The eighth annual Blue and Gold Dinner for Cub Scout Pack 633 was held Monday in Runnymede Elementary School's cafeteria.
The event, organized by Nancy Cyford and Diane Plazio, was held to honor the founding of the Cub Scouts, recognize achievements of the boys in the pack and have a good time. Dinner was catered by Wilhelm Ltd., door prizes were donated by area businesses, and a magician supplied the entertainment.
Bob Seely is Cubmaster.