December 16, 2009

Wata-Wing



Good news for those hungering for wings
Frachise planning to open in new year

From the Catonsville Times
Posted 12/16/09



This former bank on Frederick Road is undergoing renovations to become a Wata-Wing carryout franchise that is expected to open in January and offer 30 flavors of buffalo wings. (Photo by Kitty R Charlton) Those with a taste for super-hot buffalo wings will have the opportunity to test their taste buds' mettle next month, as a new Wata-Wing franchise is set to open on Frederick Road in January, according to its new owner.

Among the 30 flavors that can be carried out or delivered from the shop will be the franchise's "Melt Down" flavor, which merits a 7 out of 10 on the company's "Spicy" meter and a 10 out of 10 on its "Hot" meter. For the more faint of heart, the franchise will offer the regionally-inspired "Old Bay" flavor and more unique flavors such as "Lemon Pepper" and "Hawaiian Pineapple."
The shop, which will have limited seating, moves into the former site of the Chesapeake Bank of Maryland at 609 Frederick Road.

Bill Ingram, the owner of the new franchise location, said renovations inside the former bank, which closed last winter, have already begun. Ingram, who lives in Marriotsville in Howard County, said he chose Catonsville for his first foray into the food business because he has "been in and out of Catonsville" over the years and knows "it's a busy little town" with a convenient access to the Baltimore Beltway.

Prior to partnering with Wata-Wing's president, Doc Prevette, to start the new shop, Ingram said he was in the "dirt business" for years, working on excavations for homes and farms.
That got old, he said. "When the sun shines, everybody's screaming at you, and then when the rain comes, there's nothing you can do," he said. He's hoping that running the wing shop will offer fewer headaches -- not that it's been free of them so far.

In October, a complaint about renovations occurring at the vacant property without a permit was made to the county, said Jim Garland, a county building inspector. Garland's office then put a stop-work order on the renovations, instructing the owners to get a demolition permit, he said.
Craig Witzke, a part-owner of the building, said renovations hadn't begun yet -- that the bank's cubicles and file cabinets had just been removed -- and that the whole ordeal was the result of "malicious lies." Since then, another complaint brought a county code enforcement officer to the site to look at the location's parking. Gary Freund, a county code inspector, said his office determined that nothing was in violation because the building is still listed as being a bank, but that the county will look into the issue again once the carry-out shop opens to see if its parking is adequate. If it's not, Ingram may have to create more parking -- which isn't likely in the cramped stretch of Frederick Road -- or apply for a variance.
Ingram said he believes the bank's parking was sufficient for the wing shop, which will have very little seating. He also said renovations to the building will not affect the building's structure, and that he plans to apply for a change of use certificate with the county when the time comes to change it into the wing shop. He said he wants to keep the business "low key" and "geared toward families with kids."
Witzke said the only businesses interested in moving into the former bank location were food businesses, and although there isn't enough parking for a restaurant, there should be enough for a carry-out business like Wata-Wing. Overall, Witzke said, the wing shop should be a perfect fit in town. "I think that they are going to be a huge favorite with the college crowd," Witzke said.
The franchise has just opened a location in College Park, near the University of Maryland, and has locations in Maryland, West Virginia and northern Virginia, according to its Web site.
Another location is set to open in Towson, Witzke said.
Once the Frederick Road location is ready to open, Ingram said he will be looking to hire a few employees. He said residents should "keep their eyes out for coupons, because we're going to be doing some heavy advertising."

Those interested in seeing Wata-Wing's full menu and gauging each wing flavor on the company's "Spicy" and "Heat" meters can go to its Web site at www.watawing.com.

December 1, 2009

Catonsville Crime Prevention Seminar

The Catonsville Chamber of Commerce and We Love Catonsville, a new non-profit group, are sponsoring a community meeting on
Monday, Dec 7 at 6:30 pm
at the BloomsburyCommunity Center,
entitled "Staying Safe and Living Smart in Catonsville: Steps Residents and Businesses Can Take in Crime Prevention."

This meeting will address crime prevention in Catonsville and willfeature a panel of guests, including the Baltimore County Police who will discusshow to report crimes or suspicious activity, safe lighting options for yourhome and property, and other safety factors.

For more information call theChamber at 410-719-9609. The Bloomsbury Ctr is located at 106 Bloomsbury Ave.

November 25, 2009

Reward For Stolen Catonsville Sign



Residents of Catonsville are awaiting the return of a 15-year-old town sign that was stolen from its Frederick Road location more than a week ago, said Karen Gatzke, director of a fledgling nonprofit group, We Love Catonsville.
Gatzke said the hand-painted sign, which hung at 300 Frederick Road, depicted historic Catonsville images: a trolley pulled by horses in front of a house.
In its place now hangs a sign that reads, "Catonsville wants its sign back."
We Love Catonsville is offering a $300 reward and dinner for two at Catonsville Gourmet on Frederick Road for the original sign's return.
"This is a community that cares deeply about its roots as well as our future," said Gatzke, a real estate agent for Coldwell Banker on Frederick Road. "It means a lot to our town."

November 22, 2009

Catonsville Shootings

From the Baltimore Sun.

Baltimore police shot one man in the stomach during a gunbattle and arrested another Saturday night in West Baltimore after a chase that began in Baltimore County, a police spokesman said. The men are suspected of involvement in the shooting of two men during a robbery Tuesday night at Your Convenience Store in the 700 block Frederick Road, in Catonsville and in a second robbery-shooting Friday night, according to Baltimore County police. In the Catonsville incident, Brian Michael Meise, 52, was killed, and store owner Sudhir Shah, 55, was wounded. City police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said county police chased a vehicle used by two men into the city's Edmondson area about 7:30 p.m. The men abandoned their car, but police arrested the driver. The passenger ran, firing at police, who fired back. He was hit in the stomach in the 4500 block of Pen Lucy Road and taken to Maryland Shock Trauma Center, Guglielmi said. Two city officers suffered "very superficial" scrapes and bruises during the foot chase, he said.
- Larry Carson

November 19, 2009

HH Gregg

The new owners of the building that housed Circuit City have confirmed that a new tenant will be moving in. HH Gregg is expanding into the Baltimore area and will occupy the space on Rt 40 where Circuit City used to be. Check them out at http://www.hhgregg.com/

A Christmas Carol

STAR Theater is presenting "A Christmas Carol: Scrooge and Marley" By Isreal Horowitz on December 11th, 12th, and 13th at the Rice Auditorium on the campus of Spring Grove. Tickets are $7 and all proceeds benefit Santa Claus Anonymous in Baltimore City. To order tickets online please visit www.starltd.org. To order tickets over the phone, please contact Bernadine 410-206-1869.

Electronics Recycling




Electronics Recycling Day

Saturday, November 21, 2009
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain or shine)

Hillcrest Elementary School
1500 Frederick Road, Catonsville, MD

Keep your old electronics and batteries out of the landfill and incinerator and help Hillcrest Elementary School at the same time! Drop off anything that plugs in or runs off a battery.

Fees only for televisions ($15 to recycler) and computer monitors ($10 to HES).
Additional donations benefit Hillcrest Elementary School environmental groups.

For more information, contact Joan Plisko at jplisko@hotmail.com

Here are examples of items that can be recycled:
Copiers
Batteries
Manuals
Shredders
DVD Players
Circuit Boards
CPUs (Towers)
Speakers
Typewriters
Scanners
Stereos
Tools
Fax Machines
Telephones
Microwaves
CD Players
Software
Wire
Hard Drives
Cables/Cords
Computer Mice
Printers
Cell Phones
Radios
Keyboards
A/V Equipment
VCRs
Networking Equipment
POS Systems
Televisions
Mac Systems
Digital Cameras
Vacuum Cleaners
Mainframes
Terminals
Photo Printers

November 17, 2009

Wata Wing

Wata Wing is coming soon. I recently ate at the newest location in College Park,MD. and the wings were delicious. In addition to the carry-out scheduled to open on Frederick Rd. They will be opening one in Towson and 3 in Hagerstown. There is already a location in Martinsburg and one in Charlestown W.VA. http://www.watawing.com/

November 11, 2009

Little Sister's of the Poor - Bake Sale

Bake Sale
Saturday, November 21, 2009
9am -4 pm
Little Sisters of the Poor
St. Martin's Home
601 Maiden Choice Lane
Baltimore MD 21228-3630
Back door entrance.
Proceeds benefit the Little Sisters of the Poor, helping to defray expenses for events surrounding the canonization of our Foundress, Saint Jeanne Jugan, canonized on October 11, 2009 in Rome.
--
For more information:
Sr Rosemary
Little Sisters of the Poor
St. Martin's Home
601 Maiden Choice Lane
Baltimore MD 21228-3630
ph: 410.744.9367x172

November 7, 2009

UMBC Food Critic's

UMBC Eats is a food blog written by students – for students. Curious where you should go out to eat? Check our restaurant reviews. Want to know something about food on campus before you get here? We have that too. Need to score as much free food as possible? We also got you covered.
UMBC Eats is your one stop shop for all things food at UMBC.

November 4, 2009

C-Ville Events

Mount Saint Joseph High School
ANNUAL SPAGHETTI DINNER
Sunday, November 8, 2009
4:00 – 7:00 pm, in the newly renovated school cafeteria!

Sponsored by the MSJ Mothers’ Club & X-ACT
All Proceeds benefit “My Brother’s Keeper”

Join Students, Families, Friends, Faculty & Alumni
For an evening of great food & fellowship!
$10.00 per person, children under 3 FREE!
(Carry out orders available at the door).


Purchase at MSJ BUSINESS OFFICE or MAIL SLIP BELOW!

To reserve a table (parties of 6 or more),pls. include name & time of reservation. Contact: Michelle Rosata , mrosata@comcast.net, or 410.461.6380

*Deadline to purchase tickets Wednesday, November 4, 2009
(disregard deadline, please call Michelle to reserve for any # of guests)

-------------------------------------------------
Name: _____________________________________
Number of Guests _____ X $10.00 = Total $___________
Phone: H____________Cell_____________ Email:_________________
□ Yes! I can volunteer to help at this event!
Please mail this slip with your check made payable to
“ Mount St. Joseph High School ” to:
Michelle Rosata
3641 Cragsmoor Road
Ellicott City, MD 21042


**Thursday, November 5th
GUEST BARTENDER NIGHT AT GL SHACKS
Join the Shed Guys from 6-9
complementary appetizers
Proceeds benefit Comet Park at CHS

**Saturday, November 7th
A SOCIAL AT THE LODGE TO BENEFIT
CATONSVILLE EMERGENCY FOOD MINISTRIES NETWORK
AND SOUTHWEST EMERGENCY SERVICES
$10 admission which goes entirely to CEFM and SWES
food, soda, beer, wine and a dj
7pm-11pm
Canned food donations will also be accepted
Sponsored by Sen.Kasemeyer, Del. DeBoy, Del. Malone
and Councilman Moxley
for info - Jeff Utzinger 410-456-0878

**Saturday, November 14th
Catonsville High School's CRAFT FAIR
10am-4pm
New and returning crafters, bake sale and
Comet Booster Club Apparel
admission $1


"Friends of the Paradiso Family" Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction
on Sunday, Nov 15, 2009, 4-6 pm
at Christian Temple Church
5820 Edmondson Ave, Baltimore, MDGerry Paradiso, a Catonsville resident and long-time friend of the LaVeck Family has been bravely battling cancer but recently had a set back. As Gerry continues to improve, friends decided to help the family by putting on this fundraiser. Tickets are $15 per person for a Spaghetti dinner that includes spaghetti with sauce, bread, salad & beverage. Assorted desserts will be available for $1.00. A Silent Auction will take place during the event. To purchase tickets or make a donation please make checks payable to
"Friends of the Paradiso Family" and mail them to 1112 Sulphur Spring Road, Baltimore, MD 21227. Please note on memo line "tickets or donation." To donate an item for the silent auction contact Colleen Day at colz1@verizon.net To donate food or help with the dinner contact Kathie LaVeck k.laveck@verizon.net
**please note that all tickets will be held at the door

November 1, 2009

Dail 211

Each day thousands of Marylanders search for information about health and human services. From food and shelter to medical care, protection from domestic violence and disaster relief, the list is endless. But now, getting help is as easy as dialing 2-1-1.
2-1-1 is a free, 24-hour, statewide, confidential information and referral service provided by United Way of Central Maryland through First Call for Help™, that links people in need with community resources. They maintain and reference a database of more than 4,000 health and human service agencies, government programs and other community resources that can assist Marylanders with a range of problems. It’s easy, free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
(http://www.wbaltv.com/community/13768487/detail.html)

October 21, 2009

Disposing of Household Electronics - New Baltimore County Law Goes Into Effect October 23, 2009


Disposal of Most Household Electronics Banned

Residents Urged to Recycle

Baltimore County, Md. (October 19, 2009)—Beginning October 23, 2009, due to recent County legislation, it is illegal in Baltimore County for residents to dispose of most household electronics as trash.

Electronics Targeted
This new law targets:
computer equipment (CPUs, monitors, keyboards, printers, laptops, scanners, cables and cords)
televisions
VCRs
DVD players
telephones (including cell phones and answering machines)
stereos
fax machines
video display devices.

The law does not apply to household appliances (e.g., washers, dryers, refrigerators, ovens) or electronics sold to the commercial or institutional sectors.

Manufacturers Take-back Programs
Baltimore County urges residents with unwanted electronics to first contact electronics manufacturers or retailers to inquire about an electronics take-back or recycling program. Many electronics manufacturers and retailers have convenient programs for recycling electronics that are free or low-cost.

Donate
Another option for residents is to donate unwanted electronics to a charity or reuse organization. Residents are urged to contact the charity/organization first to ensure that the material they plan to donate will be accepted. For contact information regarding charities and reuse organizations that accept electronics and other items, residents may consult the Baltimore County Reuse Directory. This directory is available online through the County's web site or in hard copy by contacting the Bureau of Solid Waste Management.

Drop-off Facilities
County residents may also drop off unwanted electronics year-round at the following facilities:
Eastern Sanitary Landfill Solid Waste Management Facility, located off the 11400 block of Pulaski Highway (Monday - Saturday, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.);
Baltimore County Resource Recovery Facility, located on Drop-Off Drive, off Warren Road, between Beaver Dam Road and York Road (Monday - Saturday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.); and
Western Acceptance Facility, located at 3310 Transway Road, off the 4500 block of Hollins Ferry Road (Monday - Saturday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.).
Penalty
Residents must not place electronics out for trash or recycling collection or place electronics in the trash disposal area of a Baltimore County drop-off center. Residents doing so run the risk of a $100 civil penalty, non-collection of material, and/or future banishment from the County's trash and recycling drop-off centers.
Recycling or reusing electronics keeps potentially hazardous materials such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic out of landfills and waste to energy facilities.

More Information
For more information about electronics recycling or the County's new electronics recycling legislation, residents may visit Recycling's web site at www.baltimorecountymd.gov/recycling or call 410-887-2000.

August 21, 2009

Hot Cars at Frederick Road Fridays

In addition to the great sounds of the Channel Cats patrons of this weeks FRF were treated to a showing of some classic cars. Here are a few of them...




















August 17, 2009

The 2nd Annual Official Catonsville Horseshoe Tournament

2nd Annual Horseshoe Tournament

August 22, 2009

1pm @
Opies’s Snowball Stand

Sponsored by:
Men’s Civic Association
In conjunction with
The Shed Guys
$20.00 donation
www.cmca-md.com

August 15, 2009

Frederick Rd Friday's - Marquis Soul


It was another perfect night for a concert on Frederick Rd. As always, Jennings beer garden drew a nice crowd. Last night, Marquis Soul provided excellant entertainment. There was dancing in the street.


The batting cage, provided by George Brookhart, Realtor. Was a special treat and was fun for all ages.





Thanks, George!












































August 13, 2009

Frederick Road Fridays - August 14, 2009

Enjoy the sounds of Marquis Soul at Downtown Catonsville's weekly concert series. Friday from 6:30pm -8:30pm Frederick Rd at Egges Lane.

SPECIAL ATTRACTION this week : Free Batting / Pitching Cage! Bring the kids.

August 11, 2009

Catonsville Speaker Series


“Baltimore County’s Economy,
Now and the Future”




Guest Speaker:
David Iannucci
Executive Director
Baltimore County Economic Development

September 22, 2009
6:00PM


Location: bwtech@UMBC Incubator
1450 S. Rolling Road

$20 per person
Includes: Hors D’ Oeuvres, Soda, Water, Beer & Wine

Reservations can be purchased on line:
http://www.catonsville.org/
For more information contact:
Teal Cary
Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce
(410) 719-9609

July 29, 2009

Frederick Rd. Friday's - July 31st 2009




The Gigs The same guys that you heard at your school dances back in the 60's and 70's playing alot of the same music.


Established: Again March 2006
Members: Steve Adamski- Lead/Backing vocals, Lead GuitarReed Martin - Lead/Backing vocals, Flute, SaxKirk Dancy - Keyboards/backing vocalsNorbert Bertling - Lead/backing vocals, Drums and Percussion

Style: Classic Rock and Pop, Soul and What ever we want
The Gigs Song List:

Along Comes Mary - The Association

Alright Now - Free

Bang A Gong - T Rex

Born To Be Wild - Steppenwolf

Because - Dave Clark Five

Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison

Behind Blue Eyes - The Who

Brick House - The Commodors

But, It's Alright - J.J. Jackson

Buss Stop - The Hollies

Carrie Ann - The Hollies

Come On Down To My Boat - Every Mothers' Son

Dance Tonight - Paul McCartney

Dirty Water - Standells

Don't Bring Me Down - The Animals

Don't Do Me Like That - Tom Petty & Heartbreakers

Don't Let The Sun Catch You Crying - Gerry & The Pacemakers

Eleanor Rigby - The Beatles

Everybody Wants to Rule The World - Tears For Fears

Ferry Cross The Mercy - Gerry And The Pacemakers

Gimmie Some Lovin - Spencer Davis

Here Comes The Sun - The Beatles

Hey Little Girl - The Syndicate Of Sound

I Need You - The Beatles

I'll Be Back - The Beatles

It's All Over Now - Rolling Stones

It's My Life - The Animals

I Should Have Known Better - The Beatles

Jenny Jenny - Tommy Two Tone

Knock On Wood - Eddie Floyd

Little Children - Billy J Kramer

Little Sister - Elvis

Living In The Past - Jethro Tull

Locomotive Breath - Jethro Tull

Love Is All Around - The Troggs

Love Potion # 9 - The Searchers

Low Down - Boz Scaggs

Margaritaville - Jimmy Buffet

Mass. - The Bee Gees

Midnight Hour - Wilson Picket

Mr. Tambourine Man - The Byrds

Mustang Sally - Wilson Picket

Needles And Pins - The Seachers

New York Mining Disaster - The Bee Gees

Nights In White Satin - Moody Blues

No Matter What - Bad Finger

Penny Lane - The Beatles

Play That Funky Music - Wild Cherry

Please Come Home For Christmas - Eagles

Riders on The Storm - The Doors

Rocket Man - Elton John

Sara Smile - Hall & Oates

She's Not There - The Zombies

Smoke On The Water - Deep Purple

Something - The Beatles

Soul Man - Sam & Dave

Teacher - Jethro Tull

Tell Her No - The Zombies

This Boy - The Beatles

Time Of The Season - The Zombies

Tired Of Waiting - The Kinks

To Love Sombody - The Bee Gees

Turn Turn Turn - The Byrds

Tuesday Afternoon - Moody Blues

Under My Thumb - Rolling Stones

Walk Away - James Gang

Walk Away Renee - The Left Bank

Whip It - Devo

Wild Thing - The Troggs

Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton

Words - The Bee Gees

You Really Got Me - The Kinks

July 22, 2009

Private Parking

'Parking war' on Frederick Road driving away customers
Letter to the editor- Catonsville Times

Posted 7/22/09

I mean this from the bottom of my pocketbook -- never again will I spend one hard-earned dime at the eating establishments on the Frederick Road corridor.
Last Thursday turned what should have been a nice evening out with a couple of friends, patronizing businesses in what I consider my hometown, into an expensive and exhausting nightmare.
I was not aware of the parking war taking place over spaces on various off-street lots.
Although I have spent many a good dime at the Catonsville Gourmet, we had heard good things about the soft crabs at Ship's Café and decided to eat there.
There was no on-street parking available, and we had a handicapped adult with us, so I decided to park toward the back of the lot behind Catonsville Gourmet.
Yes, I saw signs about unauthorized or illegal parking.
But I genuinely did not think I was in violation because no sign stated that the lot was for Catonsville Gourmet patrons only. I was patronizing a local business so did not see anything unauthorized about it.
Yet, upon exiting the restaurant and (after) browsing around other businesses along the route, we headed back to my vehicle. But it was not where we left it.
Instead, a man wandered around the lot, cell phone in hand, calling a tow truck to come and get yet another unsuspecting patron of downtown Catonsville.
When I asked if he had my van towed away, he said he had.
The man further enlightened us to the "feud" among various eating establishments taking place over liquor licenses and parking.
So, bottom line, because of the short-sightedness of these business people along Frederick Road, once again the average worker, seeking an evening's respite and entertainment, is made to suffer the consequences.
After calling for a ride to the bank machine and then the impound yard, I am $260 poorer and infuriated that this town is allowing such nonsense.
Never again!
Connie Szczech

Connie -

I must ask, why, if you had a disabled person with you, would you have parked on a lot all of the way accross the street. Ship's Cafe has valet parking and would have taken your car right at their front door. Instead you chose to park in a spot that was reserved for someone that may have really needed to be close to the door. There are 15 Private Parking signs posted on the lot - 4 of them indicate "Parking for Strawberry Fields Only" and two of those list the specific businesses that the parking lot is intended for.

Somehow, I imagine that when you travel to down town Baltimore, to avoid patronizing your neighborhood businesses, you will avoid parking in a lot that has a similar warning posted. Be sure to tip the parking lot attendant in addition to the $7. hr parking fee.

The business owners in Catonsville do not park in your driveway to visit your neighbor and Catonsville's businesses deserve the same respect.
Sincerely, Craig



Business Owner's Must Protect their Property
Letter to the editor -Catonsville Times

In 1997, we invested in our first property on Frederick Road.
Shortly thereafter, we realized that if we were to focus on investing in properties along Frederick Road, others would follow and together we could make a difference that would revitalize the Catonsville Village.
We have invested our entire life savings, along with our hearts and souls, to realize this vision. So have our tenants.
While no one is more pleased with the current progress of our downtown area than we are, the addition of the new businesses have created a huge problem -- parking.
All of the tenants at Strawberry Fields chose to be here because we could offer parking for their customers and employees.
It is the responsibility of every property and business owner to manage their available parking.
Some businesses pay to rent spaces on other parking lots, only to find those spaces filled daily by employees of businesses that choose not to provide any parking.
This problem has been exacerbated because the county allowed several small, low-traffic businesses to expand greatly and increase their uses, without providing parking for the increased traffic.
When people park on private lots, they are stealing from the property owners and tenants, who pay the expenses to provide these lots.
We have done nothing but try to make Catonsville a better place.
For the last several months, we have gently asked people who park on our private lot and patronize other businesses not to park here.
When we try to stand up for our property rights, just a little bit, we have received threats of boycotts and violence by people who view it as our obligation to provide free parking for every business in this town.
Unfortunately, we have been placed in a position with which we are not very comfortable.
But we have to protect the integrity of our property rights and the interests of our tenants.
We have had to follow the lead of several other Catonsville property owners and hire a towing company to remove cars that are illegally parked on our lot.
This policy has been clearly posted on numerous signs displayed on the lot.
During the last few months, we hoped that people would park elsewhere when they saw the signs.
However, the warnings are still being largely ignored.
We would like to take this opportunity to ask that, when you visit businesses in Catonsville, please ask the owners what parking arrangements have been made for their customers.
It is my hope that business and property owners will be able to work together, along with Baltimore County, to solve this problem in a way that will make it convenient to visit Frederick Road.
Craig and Deborah Witzke
Catonsville
Witzke Properties owns the parking lot behind 821-833 Frederick Road and 9 and 11 Newburg Ave.

July 17, 2009

Frederick Road Fridays - July 17th has been canceled

Due to the forecast of extreme weather conditions tonight's Frederick Rd. Fridays has been canceled.

Fire at Childrens Home

A multiple-alarm fire on the grounds of the Childrens Home in the 200 block of Bloomsbury Ave. in Catonsville on Thursday night extensively damaged an unoccupied 80-year-old building, authorities said. The cause of the fire is under investigation. There were no injuries. Reported about 9 p.m., the fire went to two alarms and brought apparatus from several fire stations to the scene. At the height of the fire, flames and smoke broke through the roof and entered the attic of the two-story brick building that once housed teenage boys. The fire was brought under control in less than an hour. The complex was once known as the German Orphans Home.

- Richard Irwin
Baltimore Sun

July 11, 2009

This Weekend at the Lurman Theater

Saturday, July 11th, 2009 - 6:00 PM
The Gigs
The Gigs 2008 are the same guys who played all over Baltimore during the 60’s and 70’s doing a lot of the same great rock and British songs -- always with great harmony
Link:
The Gigs Website (new window)

Sunday, July 12th, 2009 - 6:00 PM
The Deanna Bogart Band
Bluesion: Blues, Jazz, R&B, and Country
Link:
www.deannabogart.com (new window)

July 10, 2009

ReThreads

Local Boutique ReThreads Launches New Handmade Jewelry Line
Boutique Binds Community Ties

The Paradise community on Frederick Rd. may be the last place that comes to mind when thinking of high fashion, clothing or jewelry. However, new owners of ReThreads Clothing Boutique, Janelle and James Williams, are doing just that! This Sunday July 12, Janelle launches her new line of beautifully handcrafted jewelry, fittingly named “Janelle Jewels”. Janelle Jewels are handmade necklaces, bracelets and earrings using the best quality sterling silver, gold, Swarovski crystals, precious and semi-precious gemstones. Janelle Jewels are perfect for women who enjoy wearing unique and one-of-a-kind jewelry. At the launching of Janelle Williams’ new line of jewelry, local models will showcase the jewelry during a fashion show, held at ReThreads 6416 Frederick Rd. The show times are 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm; all are welcome. RSVP @ 443-794-2800 to inform which show attending. Janelle calls the jewelry “Fun, Hip and Fabulous” and is also proud and excited that the jewelry is “hand-crafted by 3 very talented local artists.” Boutiques are generally high fashion and high priced, but this could not be further from truth, when it comes to ReThreads Clothing Boutique. This Boutique has very fashionable and stylish new and gently used name brand and designer clothing but for very reasonable prices. Occasionally throughout the year, Rethreads buys clothing from their customers and also donates clothing and accessories to local churches and charities. They are recycling, “going green and helping families save money”, says Janelle. Not to mention ReThreads is keeping business in the Catonsville, Baltimore community by using local businesses and people to create its jewelry.

July 7, 2009

Catonsville 2009 Parade Winners



Congratulations to the 2009 Catonsville 63rd Annual Parade Award Winners

Saturday, July 4th, 2009


Marie O'Dea Award Catonsville Elementary School
Best School Award Hillcrest Elementary
Best Business Award St. Agnes Hospital
Best Community Organization Award Greater Oella Community Association
Best Religious Affliation Award Full Gospel Pentecostal
Special Judges' Awards Westowne ElementaryWestchester ElementaryCatonsville Youth Baseball
Trophies will be awarded. Winners will be notified shortly with exact location and date.

July 2, 2009

Choose Catonsville Bracelets Now Available




If you live in Catonsville (or want to), show your pride about our great community by wearing a "Choose Catonsville" bracelet. Contact Karen Gatzke and she'll make sure you get a FREE bracelet. These are great to wear around town, 4th of July parade, at the pool, etc. Dogs like them for their collars too. Call Karen Gatzke, 410-218-0578, or reach her on facebook, www.facebook.com/karen.r.gatzke

June 27, 2009

Frederick Road Fridays - July 3rd, 2009 - Appaloosa

If you were anywhere in the Baltimore Area during the 1970's or 80's and you attended a school dance, a pool party, a wedding or prom. You probably remember and love Appaloosa. They were the Hotest Band then and they are still Rockin now!

This week Appaloosa will be performing at Frederick Rd and Egges Lane. Show Starts at 6:30pm and is FREE! This is a Family Friendly Event so bring the kids and as always The Beer Garden at Jennings Cafe will be open.

Band Biography

Gordon Holder · Tony Cesenaro · Sharon Donovan · Chuck Ansell · Mike Flaherty · Marc Pena Appaloosa was born in early 1971 with original members Chuck Ansell - keyboards, Mike Flaherty - drums, Frank Frazier - bass and Jimmy Neeson on guitar. In 1977, Rob Finecey replaced Jim Neeson. His tenure lasted from 1977 - 1982 while giving the band excellent vocals, lead guitar, and songwriting. Larry Neeson joined the group in 1978 as the main lead guitarist, making the band five members. He stayed until '82 when the band went part time. The original vision of a full vocal band with steady playing of songs during their performance all the while pleasing the crowd with their party atmosphere is still with Appaloosa today. After a great 24 years with the group, Joe Cowman, lead vocalist and second guitar/keys had a career opportunity and re-located out of the area with his family. The current line-up now has Gordon Holder on guitar, Tony Cesenaro on bass and the dynamic vocals of Sharon Donovan. Accenting the sound, Appaloosa is proud to have Marc Pena, AKA Midnight Marc, as part of the team since 1999 doing sound and providing outstanding DJ music. Stability and professionalism strike deep into the core of the band’s existence even to this day.It's a good chance Appaloosa played your prom, school dance, CYO/Teen Center, social function, favorite night club and maybe even some of the readers' weddings over the years. Appaloosa takes pride in providing a first rate performance and being a strong dance band. This group still kicks!Gordon HolderGordon has been performing music "professionally" since 1980. He has performed lead & rhythm guitar playing for a variety of Baltimore-Metropolitan rock & roll style bands. His musical studies and influences have encompassed guitar styles ranging from jazz, country, rhythm & blues, and rock & roll. In 1988, he proudly joined the Baltimore based band Appaloosa and has been supporting the musical group with his lead & rhythm guitar talents since!Tony CesenaroTony Cesenaro joined Appaloosa in 1993 as their bassist. Tony started playing at the age of 12, influenced by the sounds of Motown quality groups like Tower of Power, Blood Sweat and Tears, Chicago, and the rich "Doo Whop" vocals of the 50's sounds. Tony has provided Appaloosa the fortune of a continued list of strong musicians with a stable attitude and a solid approach towards entertainment and a professional attitude to his music.Sharon DonovanSharon Donovan joined Appaloosa the summer of 2007. Sharon started her singing career with “Country Strangers” in her late teens. Later karaoke hit the scene and she hosted sometimes seven shows a week. She then met Clay Hunt and joined his group “Pure De-Lite” in the 90’s for several years. She left and went to “The New Romano’s”. Sharon decided to take a small sabbatical from singing. But the itch was too strong not to scratch. She then joined “Messenger”. Sharon is quoted at saying “Messenger was the time of my life”. When “Messenger” dispersed she joined “Imposter” until they too dispersed. Sharon spent a few months fronting for “Rumor Has It” which she stepped down to finish school. But once again the itch was too strong. She is now the first female to front “Appaloosa”. She brings a new type of versatility and energy to the group. Finally she’s found a home.Chuck AnsellChuck Ansell has been performing in bands since he was 16. He started out as a lead vocalist while being caught up in the "British Invasion" and the Motown Sound in the 60's. Then at 19 he picked up keyboards. After playing in several bands and developing a vision for what he considered to be a successful formula for a group, he formed Appaloosa in 1971. Success came quickly and over the years, Appaloosa has experienced good fortune and stabilty while added by wonderful chemistry amongst the members.Mike FlahertyMike Flaherty is the drummer/vocalist. Along with Chuck, he is an original member. Mostly self taught, he has been playing since the age of 12. He played in the marching and concert bands in high school. Mike performed with several local bands including a 14 piece soul band called the “Expressions featuring the Delvons” before finally settling in with “Appaloosa” in 1971. He also plays and sings with the St. Ursula Contemporary Worship Group on Sunday mornings and at other church functions.Mike is a proud dad of his daughter Melissa and his son Matt. He works for Nelson White Systems, a large Baltimore based audio/video contractor selling, designing, installing and servicing sound and video systems for schools, churches and corporate boardrooms.Some of the highlights in his musical career have been performing in Caracas, Venezuela and as the warm-up act for Slade, Hall and Oates and the Edgar Winter Group and performing at the Inner Harbor Summer Concerts. Another memorable experience was recording at Todd Rungren’s studio in Manhattan, New York with famed keyboardist Felix Cavaliere of the “Rascals”.Mike says “the great thing about playing in Appaloosa is being able to perform such a wide variety of music while entertaining audiences. Music is such a big part of my life that I can’t imagine not performing in some capacity”.Marc PenaMarc has been the soundman for Appaloosa since 1999. For more information on the band visit http://www.appaloosaband.net/

June 24, 2009

Catonsville 2020

Group looks at future of business district
Councilman names 11 residents to Catonsville 2020


By Adam Bednarabednar@patuxent.com
Posted 6/24/09

A group formed by Councilman Samuel Moxley has been meeting to plan for the future of Catonsville's business district along Frederick Road, primarily between Bloomsbury Road and Paradise Avenue.
The group, called Catonsville 2020, has 11 members, all of whom are Catonsville residents who own businesses and property in the community.
Catonsville attorney Brian McFarland is the chairman of the group.
Other group members are: John Alli, James Baeck, Carri Beers, Judy Boitz, Ellen Hemmerly, John Murphy, Tom Quirk, Kirby Spencer, Tom Whalen and Craig Witzke.
The two informal meetings on how to begin the community conversation about improving the district have touched on traffic, parking, green space and economic development.
"We want a healthy, thriving Catonsville," McFarland said.
Making sure the business district remains vibrant should be a concern for residents too, McFarland said.
"The business district must remain strong for our residential districts to stay strong," he said.
McFarland said the main concern for business owners is to have the Frederick Road corridor become an area that people come to instead of passing through.
"You hear people say they can't find parking spaces so they didn't stop, that they hate driving through Catonsville because traffic is so backed up," he said.
McFarland said ideally he would like to see the business district become similar to Old Ellicott City, where people walk up and down the streets, visiting the local restaurants and businesses.
The state concern's about the increasing traffic on Frederick Road and the improvements along Bloomsbury Avenue were among the reasons Moxley said he formed the group.
Moxley said he did not give the group a mission statement or specific outcome.
"I gave the committee an open easel, if you will, to draw what they want to," he said.
He said he envisioned the group as picking up where the Catonsville 2000 committee left off.
That group installed new brickwork, lighting and other improvements as part of the streetscape project in 2000.
Bryan Sheppard, an aide to Moxley, said that the group is meeting now to determine specific issues to focus on before seeking wider public comment.
"It's not like they're mapping out a master plan," Sheppard said.
There has been no time line attached to when a plan for the district would be complete.
McFarland said it's early in the process and the committee hasn't yet developed a method for gathering community comment on the project.
"To a certain extent, we're still feeling our way along," he said.
McFarland said he expects the process to pick up speed after the summer.
Eventually, the group would like to produce a plan that would be added as an amendment to the area's current master plan, McFarland said.

June 20, 2009

Frederick Rd. Fridays 2009 Schedule

June 19 - Automatic Slim
June 26 - 5 Oaks
July 3 - Appaloosa
July 10 - Reality Jones
July 17 - Groove Mammals
July 24 - Bill Dickson & MTT
July 31 - The Gigs
August 7 - High Strung
August 14 - Marquis Soul
August 21 - Still Crazy
August 28 - open
September 4 - Blue Streak
Sept 11 - TBA
All shows start at 6:30pm
Egges Lane at Frederick Rd.

Frank Kolarek



Please take a minute,read below - and VOTE!

Anyone who knows Frank, and the Kolarek family, knows how much he deserves to win this award .

Frank Kolarek has been chosen as a finalist for the People Magazine's All-Stars. Frank's son Adam (who graduated from Catonsville High and now plays baseball at College Park) wrote a wonderful letter talking about his dad's passion for baseball and how and why he started Leaugue of Dreams. It's thanks to Frank that ALL children have the opportunity to play baseball and develop a love for the game. Please take a moment and go to the link below, click on Orioles and vote for Frank as many times as you can. This is a great way for us to recognize Frank's efforts and raise awareness of The League of Dreams organization.
Frank started League of Dreams for children with mental and physical disabilities. His foundation enables kids to play baseball and softball in a safe and loving environment, and gives then an opportunity to feel like big leaguers.
Voting began on Monday, Ju! ne 8 and ends Wednesday, June 24. Go to www.peopleallstars.com and VOTE for FRANK KOLAREK. Remember you can vote more than once.

June 18, 2009

Automatic Slim at Frederick Rd. Fridays


The black clouds came rolling in quickly that warm Friday night last summer, just as David Carreon and the other members of the band Automatic Slim were beginning to set up their speakers on Egges Lane.
The band's gig -- part of the first Frederick Road Fridays outdoor summer concert series in downtown Catonsville -- was "stormed out" shortly thereafter, the Catonsville resident said.
It was a bummer.
But the guys of Automatic Slim -- all in their 40s and 50s, many of them local residents who have played together for upward of 20 years -- are back in town this Friday, June 19, to kick off the concert series' second season.
"We're really glad Catonsville is doing something musically," Carreon said. "Hopefully, the weather will hold out this year."
According to Craig Witzke, a local developer whose idea it was to start the event last summer, this summer's series will feature concerts every Friday through September.
"We've essentially doubled the offerings," he said, noting that last summer's series was every other week.
The growth stems from the series being "extremely successfully" last year in "getting feet on the street," Witzke said.
With expanded support from the Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce and businesses up and down Frederick Road, he hopes this summer will be even more successful, he said.
"We want people to come over and visit Frederick Road," he said.
"The hope is that people will come here, enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants on Frederick Road and then walk over, listen to some music, have a nice time, maybe visit Jenning's beer garden, walk around and visit some shops and stay for a while."
The "beer garden," offered by Jenning's Cafe, is an added touch of adult entertainment to an already fun night, he said.
But it's just one part of an event that is really geared toward families bringing their children out for an evening on the town, he said.
That vibe is perfect for Automatic Slim, Carreon said.
Many of the band's longtime fans are middle-aged with children, he said, so late-night bar gigs aren't always the best for bringing out their fan base.
"A lot of our crowd aren't able to make it to those events because they have Little League or homework or recitals," he said.
"So it's nice to have these gigs that are early and are outside, and the families can be away from where they're serving alcohol if they want to," he said.
"It's more like a concert; it's not a night club gig late. It's early and outside, so we hope that we get a lot of people to come out."
The concert starts at 6:30 p.m. and ends at 8:30 p.m.
Automatic Slim is a four-man band -- Carreon on guitar and vocals; Jim Harrell, of Catonsville, on a second guitar; Jack DiPietro, of Catonsville, on bass; and Clark Matthews, who Carreon called an "honorary Catonsvillian," on drums.
Matthews is sitting in for Scott Stump, the band's regular drummer, who can't make the show.
The band mostly plays blues, but also does "American roots" rock and some country.
They also play blues instrumentals and some of their own songs.
All their music is "heavy on the guitar work," Carreon said.
"We're all family guys, so we don't have that much time to do stuff, so music is our outlet," he said.
"We just look forward to playing music when we can."
Witzke said having Catonsville residents perform adds another layer of hometown charm to the concert series, and said this year's line-up is "outstanding."
That's partially because the concert series has attracted "more bands than we (have) dates," creating a backlog of hopeful Frederick Road Fridays performers, Witzke said.
This summer's series is even being extended to Sept. 11 upon a request by the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, which wanted its students returning for the fall semester to have a chance to attend, Witzke said.
"UMBC really wanted to be a part of it as well," he said.
A complete series schedule can be found on the chamber's Web site, www.catonsville.org.
Reprinted from the Catonsville Times

June 8, 2009

New Flower Pots on Frederick Rd.

Have you noticed the new flower pots that are lining the the 800 block of Frederick Rd.? They were placed there today by Carol Langrall of a Garden of Earthly Delights. This project was funded by The Greater Catonsville Chamber of Commerce - via a "Go Green" Grant provided by Baltimore County. Look for more beautification projects on Frederick Rd. coming soon.
http://www.agardenofearthlydelights.net/

June 5, 2009

Believe in Tomorrow- Volunteer of the Month

From The Believe in Tomorrow Website
http://www.believeintomorrow.org/volunteer_vom.html

Each month, the Believe In Tomorrow staff celebrates someone who is more than a volunteer. He or she is a member of the Believe In Tomorrow family.
This person could be someone who does something extra special annually on that month, or simply a dedicated worker who deserves accolades for everything he or she has done.
Below are the stories of Believe In Tomorrow Volunteers of the Month. We only honor these people for one month, but we know they will stay in the hearts of families and children always.
Volunteer of the Month: Tammy Reymann, the Party Planner
When Tammy Reymann comes home to her kids after volunteering at a Believe In Tomorrow special event or putting in a couple hours at the main office, her kids joke with her: “You don’t work, you volunteer.”
After 16 years with the organization, Tammy knows volunteering for Believe In Tomorrow is hard but very rewarding work. The mother of three and former recreation therapist is an essential cog to the clockwork of Believe In Tomorrow events, mostly because she will conquer anything thrown at her. In the meantime she’s made some life-long friends at the organization, and rallied her own family and friends to support a cause she has a personal investment in.
“I was looking forward to the day I could volunteer,” says Tammy.
When her second child made it to preschool, Tammy took the opportunity to get involved in Believe In Tomorrow. She followed the organization from its beginnings, knowing CEO/Founder Brian Morrison from her college years through mutual friends and family members.
“I always had volunteered,” says Tammy. “I had a keen interest in working in special population groups. My son was born deaf. We traveled extensively for his therapy. It was going to be too difficult for me to work part-time so I decided to volunteer.”
The decision grew into a volunteering job that had Tammy pitching in wherever the need arose, specifically for special events. Tammy has prepped and worked events like Believe In Tomorrow’s Annual Benefit and Auction, Port to Fort race, and many of the large Lacrosse festivals hosted by Believe In Tomorrow. Currently, Tammy comes into the office once a week for a few hours to research places to look for Benefit and Auction donations.
“Some of the most memorable and funny events were the Lacrosse fundraisers,” says Tammy. “They were tremendous because they got the entire community and surrounding areas involved.”
Over the years Tammy would come home and talk about her work, the events, and the need for volunteers at the events. She convinced her entire family to get involved, and, for the past two years, her husband, David Reymann, has sat on the Believe In Tomorrow Board of Directors. Tammy also recruited several friends to help out at events.
What has inspired this devotion? Says Tammy: “I think the people at Believe In Tomorrow are great, very caring and very knowledgeable. It’s that right mix and blend of people to serve the families and the children. And I really believe in what the organization stands for.”

June 3, 2009

Ice Cream Coming to Strawberry Fields

You Scream Ice Cream will open at 821 Frederick Rd. later this month. Be sure to ask for their special flavor - STRAWBERRY FIELDS.



A new ice cream shop is set to open in downtown Catonsville within the next two weeks, filling the small space at 821 Frederick Road recently vacated by the Little Sugar Shack candy store.
According to owners Phillip and Rhonda Chase, You Scream Ice Cream will serve hand-dipped Hershey's Ice Cream and low-fat Dole soft-serve ice cream, as well as smaller candies and coffee drinks.
There are a "couple of X-factors" still to be answered before opening, Phillip Chase said, including having contractors finish woodwork in the shop and having the health department give the official approval.
But Rhonda Chase said she and her husband can "see the light at the end of the tunnel," and hope to open as soon as possible.
"We're ready to jump right in and go with the flow," she said.
The couple envision an old-school ice cream parlor where community members and visitors to Catonsville's main street can pop in for a cool treat of their choice, Phillip Chase said.
"We want an old-time ambiance," he said. "We want that 1940s feel."
To that end, he has been searching through old records in the Catonsville Room at the Catonsville Library to find old photographs of the downtown area to help decorate the shop.
The Chases also hope to hire muralist Nathaniel Gibbs to paint a mural in the shop that helps provide a similarly vintage vibe.
The couple, who live in West Edmondale, recruited their daughters Shannon, 25, and Kelley, 22, to help with some of the more aesthetic aspects like paint colors and designs.
"It's definitely a family endeavor," Rhonda Chase said.
Prior to seeing the "For Lease" sign at the new location, the couple had been looking all across the region for a good place to settle, she said.
For the last four years, they have run a weekend ice cream stand at the Patapsco Flea Market in Baltimore, and were ready to expand.
"We just kind of outgrew that," she said. "We wanted independence, we wanted to be closer to home, and we wanted to be in the community. We're really community oriented."
So far, the community has been welcoming to them as well, she said.
"We've met so many people who have been welcoming and helpful," she said. "I think if we opened now they'd come in and roll their sleeves up to help."
The official "You Scream Ice Cream colors" are pink, blue, and yellow, she said, so Hershey's "Crazy Vanilla" ice cream flavor, which is a mix of all three colors, will definitely be served.
The Dole soft-serve they will offer is "unique," and is the same type served in Disney theme parks, Phillip Chase said.
It is low-fat and lactose free, and comes in flavors such as pineapple and strawberry, not just the standard chocolate and vanilla, he said.
They'll also serve coffee -- "We're very proud of the coffee we serve, but I can't tell you (the type), or I'd have to kill you," Rhonda Chase said with a laugh -- and chocolate and caramel candies.
The shop is long and narrow, so there won't be much seating.
But there will be a window on the street so people who can't fit inside, or who come after the doors are locked but before the staff is finished cleaning up for the night, can still place an order.
The shop is small, Rhonda Chase said, "but I think it will be just what we need to step out."
The Chases said they've been encouraged so far with the interest they've seen in the shop.
People have been peaking in the doors to see what's going on inside, including a lot of kids, they said.
They even get the occasional canine visitor who strolls right up to the door of the shop, which used to be the Catonsville Groomery before it was the Little Sugar Shack and before the pet groomers moved next door.
Starting a new business is a little scary, especially with the economy the way it is.
"Of course a lot of people ask us, 'Is this the best time to do this?'" Rhonda Chase said.
But for her and her husband, "there is no best time," he said.
"You just go for it."

The above story was reprinted from the June 4th issue of the Catonsville Times - staff writer.

Art Show at the Strawberry Festival

CHARLENE CLARK STUDIO
presents
new paintings and prints and your old favorites
Strawberry Festival
Catonsville Presbyterian Church
1400 Frederick Road
Saturday, June 6
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Stop by
Would love to see you!
Charlene Clark Studio
Mill Centre #346
3000 Chestnut Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21211
410.467.2106
<http://www.charleneclarkstudio.com/>

Bill's - Jam Off











June 2, 2009

Bird Watching


Saturday, June 6, Bird Watching Hike Along the Grist Mill Trail, rain or shine!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
You are welcome to join members of the Friends of Patapsco Valley & Heritage Greenway for a hike along the Grist Mill Trail in Patapsco State Park. Founding Members of the Maryland Chapter of the Audubon Society, Dave and Elaine Pardoe, will lead this bird watching hike along the Grist Mill Trail, in the Avalon/Orange Grove Areas that runs parallel to the Patapsco River. Elaine & Dave Pardoe have been birders for over 30 years and have been privileged to go birding with some of the top ornithologists in the country who have greatly helped their ability to identify and enjoy birds. They are both natives of Baltimore, and Dave grew up near the Avalon area of the Patapsco River Valley State Park. Family trips and Boy Scout outings and camping adventures there played a major part in his love for the natural world and a subsequent career in conservation. He is retired from the National Wildlife Federation after which he served on the Board of the National Audubon Society for nine years; and he is on the Board of the local Audubon Society of Central Maryland. While Dave has been more involved in the institutional aspects of wildlife conservation, Elaine provides the ears to distinguish the challenging vocalizations of birds that some refer to as "songs." Although the primary purpose is to look for birds, you can't help notice the diverse plants, abundance of wildlife, interpretive history signs, trees we have planted in the last few years along the Grist Mill Trail, and of course, the beautiful Patapsco River. We hope you will join us to enjoy the great outdoors, walking along the Grist Mill Trail and learn first hand why our members are dedicated to preserve, protect and enhance the history, heritage and environment of the Patapsco River Valley!
TIME: 8:45 am-9 am registration. Walk begins promptly at 9 am. Ends approximately 11 am.
MEETING LOCATION: Meet near Lost Lake in the Avalon Area of Patapsco State Park. For a great map of the park, go to http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/avalon.html. Look for registration sign and group!
COST: Free to members; All others $5/person. Free trail map included. Note: There is a $2/fee per vehicle to enter the park.
DIRECTIONS TO PATAPSCO STATE PARK: The Avalon Area of the Patapsco Valley State Park entrance is off of U.S. Route 1, just south of its intersection with Route 195 (and approximately 2 miles north of Route 100). Turn onto South Street and make an immediate left into the park entrance and follow signs to the Glen Artney area. For those of you using GOOGLE MAPS OR MAPQUEST, the approximate GPS coordinates to the entrance of the park are 39.219504,-76.704869. To find Lost Lake, a great map of the inside of the park is located at http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/central/avalon.html.
TO REGISTER: email patapscofriend@gmail.com or call 410-480-0824 by Friday, June 5, 7 pm.

May 15, 2009

Buy Local


Baltimore County Encourages Area Consumers to Buy Local

Towson, Md. (May 13, 2009)—

The Baltimore County Department of Economic Development's “ReDiscover Your Neighborhood Downtown” marketing campaign is asking area consumers to do their part to help stimulate the local economy this spring by shopping, dining and spending money at locally-owned, neighborhood businesses.

“As businesses continue to compete for each discretionary dollar, the importance of supporting our local businesses has become even more vital to sustaining our local economy,” stated David S. Iannucci, Executive Director for the Baltimore County Department of Economic Development.
Studies consistently show that when customers buy from an independent, locally owned business, over two thirds of the money spent stays in the community and is used for purchases from other local businesses. These businesses also create more jobs locally, and in some sectors provide better wages and benefits than nationwide chains. The owners often live in the community where their business is located.

There are approximately 3,000 locally owned businesses within Baltimore County’s 13 commercial revitalization districts, which include Arbutus, Catonsville, Dundalk, Essex, Landsdowne, Liberty Road, Loch Raven, Overlea-Fullerton, Parkville, Pikesville, Reisterstown, Towson and Woodlawn Village. Businesses include specialty retail shops, restaurants, florists, hair salons, automotive repair shops, and home improvement stores.

“By spending money in local businesses, you maintain the value of your community by keeping businesses open in vibrant neighborhood downtowns,” stated Nancy Hafford, Executive Director of the Towson Chamber of Commerce.



Re Discover Catonsville

Frederick Road & Baltimore National Pike

There are lots of local retailers and restaurants offering a variety of goods and services all along or near Frederick Road. Cy's Tuxedos have bathing suits as well as tuxedo rentals, Plymouth Wallcoverings offers furniture & home decor, Objects Found has antiques and consignment items, and One World Emporium and Jeanna Lynn Bags & Designs offer unique items. Treats abound at Sugar Bakers Cakes and the IYou Scream - Ice Cream, and restaurants include El Nayar, Chef Paolino's Catonsville Gourmet Market & Fine Foods, Jennings Cafe and more

May 12, 2009

Trax on Wax



We should be really glad that there is a Music Store in Catonsville and I encourage everyone to support it. I stopped in today and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, while listening to some great tunes, and browsing through many old favorites.
Gary has new and used vinyl (most used vinyl is an unbelievable $2.99!) He will buy your unwanted albums and burn your favorite ablums to cd.


For new record store venture, all sales are vinyl
By Kevin Rectorkrector@patuxent.com

5/06/09 (Reprinted from the Catonsville Times)

Vinyl is back in Catonsville.

A new vinyl record shop is set to open Monday, May 11 in the same downtown Catonsville location vacated by the closing of a Record & Tape Traders store in March.

Store owner Gary Gebler, a former Record & Tape Traders executive, said Trax on Wax will sell old vinyl records, new special-release vinyl records and compact discs by local musicians.
The store also will have the capability of transferring newly purchased records or old albums onto CDs.

The store will offer coffee and snacks, wireless Internet access as well as outdoor seating and indoor areas for customers to lounge and play records.

Gebler said he's not going to set hours at the store immediately.

He said he wants to take some time to gauge in-store traffic and whether college students from nearby University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and the Community College of Baltimore County-Catonsville campus will provide a later crowd.

He said he is aware of the trouble Record & Tape Traders had with street visibility and plans to have outdoor seating and outdoor speakers playing music to help get the shop noticed.

There will also be "tons of signage," he said, declaring the shop's name, its merchandise and its "cool phone number," 410-869-TRAX.

A stage for live music and performances will be a permanent fixture at the 709 Frederick Road location.

Magazines, posters, incense and other items also will be sold, as they were at like Record & Tape Traders.

Gebler said his store will not sell tobacco pipes as its predecessor did, nor will it sell any music other than vinyl records and local CDs.

In that way, the shop will serve a particular musical niche, Gebler said, one he has witnessed survive many changes in the music industry over the years.

Gebler served as vice president of Record & Tape Traders from 1995 to 2006, when it was sold to Georgia-based Value Music Concepts.

Catonsville, dubbed "Music City, Maryland" in May of 2002, was always his favorite location, he said, and he loved the store's vinyl collection.

Gebler said that after leaving Record & Tape Traders, he worked for Trans World Entertainment Corp., which owns F.Y.E. and Sam Goody music stores that are found in malls around the country.

In both jobs, he constantly heard people lament the disappearance of vinyl, he said.
In March, when he heard Record & Tape Traders had called it quits in Catonsville after being in town since 1982, he decided to act on a business idea he had for years.

Gebler, who lives in Reisterstown, had been considering a store with the feel of an old-school record shop but all the amenities of a modern, wired coffee joint.

"When you walk in, the aroma of incense is going to hit you," he said.

Gebler's son, Jake Gebler, 23, has redesigned the store's two outdoor window displays, even adding a splash of leopard print fabric to make them "sexy," he said with a laugh.

His wife, Susan Richardson, has been helping sort the old records, which Gebler said he has been collecting for the past six weeks from "estate sales, garage sales, and postings on (Craigslist.com)" up and down the east coast.

Gebler's buddy, Bob Berberich, who used to work for him at the Record & Tape Traders in Frederick, is doing all the new woodwork in the shop.

In addition to constructing the new record bins along the walls, he is also building the new stage, where there will "always be a full set of band equipment," Gebler said.

Peirce MacGill, a revitalization specialist with the county's Department of Economic Development, has also provided some assistance.

Gebler said he occasionally gets nervous about starting his own business.
"I feel like I'm crazy sometimes, like, 'What am I doing? Do I know what's going on in the world?'" he said. But he also is confident in his concept.

"I think it's going to do well. I really do. Otherwise I wouldn't be doing it," he said.
And he's excited about the prospect of hanging out in a record shop all day.
"From a selfish standpoint, I want a place where I can look at albums," he said, laughing.
He said he envisions his shop being "just a place for people to hang out and talk about music."
While the store will open Monday, Gebler said the "big launch party" won't be until the middle of June.

May 9, 2009

Catonsville Pub Crawl - May 2009


The Catonsville Men's Civic Association's 2nd Pub Crawl was a great Success. The participants started the trek at G.L. Shacks with free appetizers and drink specials.
Some then made a brief stop at Morsburger's Bar.
The crawlers proceeded to Sea Hut, where we were greeted by the musical delight of a D.J. No time was wasted before the very talented (and very happy) bunch was showing off their best dance moves.
On to Jennings Cafe for more drink specials and more good times! By then it was already midnight and some continued onward while others went back to Sea Hut for more dancing and others crawled home.
I am not sure, but, I believe there are a few, that never left G.L. Shacks!
Many thanks to our sponsors and participants.

May 8, 2009

Catonsville Rails to Trails & Friends of the Patapsco Valley Heritage Greenway

One of our regular loyal readers has contacted us and asked that we include links to these two important web sites. Here they are and Thank you for your support! . These two sites have also been added to "Our Favorite Links" section (on the right hand side of this page) for easy future reference.

The Catonsville Rails to Trails has been working with the Baltimore County Highway Department on disposal of the old railroad ties from the Short Line Trail. The County determined that the ties were non-toxic and agreed to remove them. During the removal, they widened the cleared trail to about twelve feet, fixed two washouts, and filled in several low spots. The trail is now level for the entire length from Charlestown to Shady Nook. http://home.comcast.net/~crtt/

The Friends of Patapsco Valley and Heritage Greenway Inc. (FPVHG) is dedicated to preserving , protecting, interpreting and restoring the environment, history and culture of the Valley between Daniels and Elkridge, Maryland. http://www.patapscoheritagegreenway.org/

May 6, 2009

Frederick Rd. Fridays - 2009 Schedule

Frederick Rd. Fridays Begins this Year on June 19th
The Place is the Same
Egges Lane @ Frederick Rd. (Next to the Fire House)
The Music Starts at 6:30pm
Come Early and Dine at one of Catonsville's Restaurants
Stay Late and Enjoy Additional Entertainment at The Jennings Beer Garden
June 19 - Automatic Slim
June 26 - 5 Oaks
July 3 - Appaloosa
July 10 - Reality Jones
July 17 - Groove Mammals
July 24 - Bill Dickson & MTT
July 31 - The Gigs
August 7 - High Strung
August 14 - Marquis Soul
August 21 - Still Crazy
August 28 - TBA
September 4 - Blue Streak

May 2, 2009

Plant Sale and Exchange


HILLCREST P.T.A. SPRING PLANT SALE & EXCHANGE

Friday, May 8th from 3:00 to 6:00 pm on the side lawn at Hillcrest

Just in time for Mother's Day!



Shop a beautiful selection of flowering hanging baskets and 4.5" pots of annuals.

Please pick up pre-ordered plants during these hours.


If you have any questions please call Jennifer Parker at 410-788-6352





In addition to the Plant Sale everyone is invited to join in the
CATONSVILLE PLANT EXCHANGE!
Come share plants from your own garden while picking up something new and exciting from your neighbors' garden!
Exchange, donate, or simply take home plant divisions!
For more info please contact Ken Erickson at
410-788-6352 or
e-mail: 21228plantexchange@live.com.

On the Lighter Side!

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