Have you been to the new Charles E. Miller Branch Library and Historical Center? While I've visited several times since it's grand opening, I'm still amazed how my family and I discover something new and exciting on each visit.
The 63,000-square-foot building is host to whimsical spaces, historical items, innovative designs, significant records, classic books, current periodicals, meeting areas and the list goes on.... In fact, I learn something new from everyone who talks to me about it — "Did you see the big frog?", "The ceiling fans are so clever!" and "Did you notice how the sun sets over the meadow when you're on the patio."
Since there is so much to discover in this mammoth building, I'd like to invite readers to email me their own library discoveries. Whether you are an individual, family or kid, tell me what you find fascinating about the new Library, garden and historical center. Going forward, I'll share your observations in this column in a section called Library Finds.
Until then, here's one of my favorite library discoveries — the window seat in the children's section. This oversized nook framed in a barn motif invites kids (and yes, it's big enough for some adults too) into an intimate, cozy space with a spectacular view of the Enchanted Garden. Don't forget to email me your "Library Finds."
It's an Italian feast! On Saturday, Feb. 4, Boy Scout Troop 794 of Ellicott City is sponsoring it's annual spaghetti dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church's Parish Center on Ilchester Road.
"This is our only fundraiser for Boy Scout Troop 794, which helps to fund many boys along their scouting trail," said Mary McKitrick, Boy Scout Troop 794 committee member.
Whether you dine in or carry out (yes, you have the option to bring home dinner), don't miss the opportunity to buy a raffle ticket or bid on a silent auction item. There are a variety of auction items including autographed memorabilia from Ravens running back Ray Rice and Orioles' legendary third baseman Brooks Robinson memorabilia and photos of Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus and a Longaberger basket. Dinner is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, $5 for ages 4-12, and ages 3 and younger are free. Special discounts for scouts in uniform (half price) and families of five (maximum charge of $28). Good luck Troop 794!
Congratulations to Vintage Bliss Boutique! The downtown Ellicott City store won the Historic District Holiday Window Decorating Contest's official People's Choice award for their sparkly winter themed window display. Runner-ups include the following main street stores A Journey from Junk, Attic Antiques and Things and Sweet Elizabeth Jane. Bravo to all stores.
Are you a student in your sophomore or junior year who would like to have a voice on Howard County Board of Education? Then you may want to consider running for student member of the board. Applications for this position are being accepted now through Feb. 15. The student member will serve on the board of education during the 2012-13 school year. For more information including the application packet, contact your public school's student government adviser or email Ronnie Bohn at ronnie_bohn@hcpss.org.
Calling all parents of kindergarten and first grade students. Registration for incoming kindergarteners and first-graders will begin soon in all our public schools. The incoming student registration count is used to determine the amount of teachers needed for the next school year.
Hollifield Station Elementary school's Nancy McBride informed me that their registration for new incoming kindergarten and first-grade students is Feb. 27-March 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., in addition to one evening registration Feb. 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
When registering, please note children must be 5 years old by Sept. 1, 2012 and reside in the school district where registering. The following is required for all school registrations: at least one custodial parents must register in person and bring a picture identification (drivers license, military ID or passport), current lease or house deed (with valid dates and signatures), current utility bill with name and address (telephone, BGE or cable), student proof of birth and current proof of immunization.
For more information on student registrations, contact your public elementary school. School information can be found at the Howard County Public School System's web site at http://www.hcpss.org.