ANTIQUES HAVE never been more popular. Collectors, history buffs and individuals who enjoy the warmth and comfort evoked by furniture and mementos used by a previous generation are going to auctions and shows, discovering local antiques malls, or striking up friendships with local dealers as they search for just the right object.
This weekend, those with a passion for antique farm toys can indulge themselves at the annual Farm Toy Show and Auction sponsored by the Taneytown Volunteer Fire Department. The event is held Saturday and Sunday at the fire company's Activities Building on Memorial Drive.
People come from neighboring counties and nearby states in hopes of finding the favorite toy that may round out a collection -- or start a new one. Don Shoemaker, an enthusiastic collector of antique farm toys for years, organizes the show, which has become a premier fund-raiser for the fire company.
The toy auction takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday; the show will be held 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $2; children younger than age 12 are admitted free. Door prizes will be offered, and food will be served during the show.
Information: 410-756-2430.
Bloodmobile comes to towns
When planning your St. Patrick's Day celebration for Wednesday, don't forget to include a stop at the Bloodmobile in Taneytown, when the town has its first blood drive of the year from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
You are eligible to give blood if you're healthy, weigh at least 110 pounds and haven't given blood since Jan. 20. Child care will be provided.
Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted.
Information: Sandy Crouse, 410-756-6077.
Medical questions: 1-800-272-2048.
If you can't make it to Wednesday's drive, the Red Cross Bloodmobile will be in New Windsor from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. March 25 at the New Windsor Fire Hall.
Information: Don Bartgis, 301-663-3105.
Think summer
The recent nasty weather hasn't stopped Taneytown from looking ahead to summer.
If you can imagine that far ahead to those steamy days and humid nights, then you might want to apply for membership at the Taneytown municipal pool. Memberships for those who live in the Taneytown zip code area (21787) are offered at a 10 percent reduction from March 15 to April 30.
Memberships cost $160 for families and $95 for individuals. The cost is $190 for families and $115 for individuals who don't live in Taneytown.
The city is recruiting personnel to work at the pool for the summer, and applications for lifeguards and concessionaires are being accepted. Lifeguards must have certification in not only lifeguarding, but also in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid.
Concessionaire applicants need to be proficient in math.
Information: 410-756-2677.
Republican officers
If you've noticed the Voter Registration Trailer at the firemen's carnivals, or attended the annual summer Corn Roast in Union Bridge, you may like to know that the people behind these opportunities for citizen involvement and community spirit are members of the West Carroll Republican Club.
Newly elected officers include Joe Burns, president; Jack Gullo Sr., vice president; Jim Reter, treasurer; and Sue Gullo, secretary.
Those interested in joining the club are welcome to attend the meetings held the third Monday of each month.
Information: 800-955-9054, Ext. 3495.
Pub Date: 3/11/99