Volume I Issue #33 June, 2014 C. David Copenhaver, Editor
Welcome to our latest issue of the ACC eNews. This eNews has been developed in an effort to reach out to the residents of Abingdon. Our purpose is to provide you an opportunity to become more informed and to encourage more participation at our monthly meetings! Please share this eNews with your neighbors. Why not plan to join us at our next meeting on Monday, June 23, 2014 from 6:30pm -7:30pm at the Abingdon Public Library, 2510 Tollgate Road, Abingdon, MD 21009. Join us and participate; take that leap of faith, you may find it rewarding! (For additional information, contact me at abingdoncc@gmail.com.)
(If at any time you wish to have your eMail address removed from our data base, just reply remove.) *******************************************************************************************
Abingdons Treasures: Woodside (Woodside is situated on top of s small hill on the north side of Singer Road, approximately 100 yards west of MD 24)
Woodside was the home of Joshua Wilson, a Harford County doctor and farmer. Wilson graduated from the University of Maryland Medical School in 1818. In 1823 he married and built this house. A civic minded man willing to share his wealth as he prospered, Wilson gave land for the construction of St. Marys Episcopal Church between 1843 and 1846. He is buried at Mt. Carmel, a Methodist Church in Emmorton, Harford County, Maryland.
When Joshua Wilson died on September 6, 1880, his will read To my daughter Rebecca Barbara Wilson, I give, in fee simple the dwelling home in which I now reside on my farm known as Woodside. The house was then purchased by Robert L. Wilson at auction in 1928, to settle the estate of Rebecca Barbara Wilson who had died that year. (Robert was the son of William Wilson, the son of Joshua Wilson). On his death in 1957, Robert Wilson willed the property to his daughter, Miss Eloise Wilson, who splendidly maintained the house and grounds until her passing in 1994.
Woodside is one of the finest examples of the Federal style hall and double parlor house plan in Harford County. The house displays many fine architectural details, including a sensitive use of stone and a high caliber of carved woodwork as shown in the many fine mantels, the beautifully carved staircase, and other woodwork throughout the house. Another striking detail is the marbleized baseboard in the first floor hallway, a design feature once used in all the major rooms in the main block of the house. Woodside is also of interest as a property which was always owned by Wilsons direct descendants until 1994 when Miss Eloise H. Wilson became ill and sold the property to her close friends Michael and Jan Stinchcomb. The Stinchcombs currently reside at Woodside.
Miss Wilson attended Wellesley College, outside of Boston in Wellesley, Massachusetts. She excelled as an Artist (printmaker). Her wood engravings from the 1930s and 1940s were the subject of an exhibit held at Goucher College in 1998. These wood engravings were discovered in her home in Harford County, Maryland after her death. She also served as President of Library Trustees for Harford County Public Library.
Woodside is a property that is now listed in the National Registry. Although Woodside has fallen into disrepair over the years, currently the Stinchcombs, along with skilled assistance from friends Derrick and Jimmy, have begun the arduous task of refurbishing the house to its look in 1930, when the covered front patio was added to the house. The Stinchcombs and their friends see this project as a labor of love.
Jan and Michael Stinchcomb, along with Derek McGuirk, were recipients of the Preservation Project 2014 Award in recognition of their efforts in the porch restoration project at the County Landmark: Woodside.
(Sources: Michael Stinchcomb, National Register of Historic Places: Nom. Form HA.693-HA696, Photo credit: Mark R. Edwards, 11/1977) ****************************************************************************************************************************************
Abingdon Community Council eNews - 2 -
Meteorologists May Tip Balance in Harford School Weather Zone Debate Professional weathermen could tip the balance in the ongoing debate about creating a separate weather zone for northern Harford County school closing and delay decisions.
Meteorologists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service are in the approval phases of creating a separate weather forecasting zone for the northern end of Harford County, Meteorologist-in-charge James Lee, at NOAA's Sterling, Va. office, which covers Harford County, said.
At the very least, approval of the new forecast zone, which is likely to come this summer, will add fuel to the continuing firestorm about how Harford school officials handle inclement weather incidents.
Following a harsh winter in which Harford County public school students missed 11 full days of classes, there continues to be an outcry from parents in the northern end of the county about the dangerous road conditions in their area and the need for special consideration during bad weather. School system data, however, shows that northern Harford area students don't necessarily stay home and miss the full day of classes during a two-hour morning delay for bad weather any more than do students in the southern half of the county.
Those numbers aren't likely to appease parents, who think school officials should split the county into two zones for dealing with weather delays and cancellations, similar to what Baltimore County Public Schools has done for years with its northern, or Hereford, zone. They do, however, help buttress long-standing arguments from public school leaders against weather zoning.
(Source: exploreharford.com. BY KRISHANA DAVIS, kdavis@baltsun.com. Some changes were made.) **********************************************************************************************
Harford County DPW Bureau of Highway Engineering is on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/arfordountyihways )
The Bureau of Highways Engineering is a major division within the Department of Public Works. Its responsibilities are to provide engineering design and technical support for roadway and bridge projects throughout Harford County.
In addition, the Bureau of Highways Engineering provides the review/design and subsequent approval of subdivision/related roadways, traffic analysis, including but not limited to intersection improvements, future roads, speed studies, traffic calming measures, storm drains, and bridge facilities, which when completed, become part of the Harford County infrastructure. (Source: http://www.harfordcountymd.gov/.Some changes were made.) ***********************************************************
Temporary Closure of Holy Cross Road The Harford County Department of Public Works Division of Highways will make road repairs to a portion of Holy Cross Road.
Holy Cross Road will be closed from St Clair Bridge Road to Route 24 North beginning Wednesday, May 28, 2014 for approximately two weeks. The road will be closed from 8am to 3pm each day. Signs will be posted covering the detour route for drivers. If you would like more information, please contact Dan Hammon, Supervisor with Bridges at 410-638-3533 ext. 2255. See more at: http://www.harfordneighbors.net/index.php?section=1&subtype=81&id=6914#sthash.B1TD2MER.dpuf
(Source: harfordneighbors.net. Some changes were made.) *********************************************************** - 3 -
Abingdons Caleb Williams Named Harfords Most Beautiful Baby; Receives Prize Valued at More than $11,000 By Dagger News Service May 23, 2014
Seventeen-month-old Caleb Williams was named 2014 Harfords Most Beautiful Baby as part of the fifth annual Celebree Presents Harfords Most Beautiful Baby contest which took place on Saturday, May 10, hosted by Harford Family House. As the winner of the contest, Caleb received more than $11,000 in cash and prizes, including a full year of pre-school valued at $9,000 donated by title sponsor Celebree Learning Centers.
The event raised a total of $16,000 to support the valuable work of Harford Family House, which celebrates its twenty-fifth anniversary this year. For a quarter of a century, Harford Family House has provided transitional housing and resources to families in need, to move them from homelessness and hopelessness to stability and hope. It costs just $25 to provide one night of housing to a parent or child in need. The funds raised through this event will provide 160 nights of shelter for a family of four.
The prizes and event were made possible by generous sponsorships from the following: Celebree Learning Centers, Jones Junction, University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Medical Center, Rosedale Federal Savings & Loan Association, APGFCU, Harford Mutual Insurance Company, Susquehanna Bank, Mars Supermarkets, My Gym, Saxons Diamond Centers, Harford Mall, Bel Air Athletic Club, Anni Oh Photography, Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz and Kleins ShopRite.
A panel of judges chose the winner from the 10 entries that had received the most pre-event online votes. This years judges were: Dr. Jeffrey Horowitz, Debra McCollum of Jones Junction, Tracy Piccolo of Saxons Diamond Center and Karen Hensley RNC, PEDS, BSN of Upper Chesapeake Health Family Birthplace. The grand prize winner was announced at an award ceremony on May 10 at the Center Court of Harford Mall as part of a day-long event.
What a wonderful way to celebrate Mothers Day weekend! Parents and children came out to enjoy a fun event that also supports the important work of Harford Family House in their community. We want to thank participants and local businesses for making this years Beautiful Baby contest a stunning success! says Harford Family House Executive Director Joyce Duffy.
(Source: reprinted, with permission from The Dagger, www.daggerpress.com. Some changes were made.) ******************************************************************************************** Bel Air Independence Day Parade Seeks Entrants for 2014 Celebration
The Bel Air Independence Day Committee is eagerly seeking floats, marching units, antique cars, and comic/novelty acts to join the areas biggest and best 4th of July celebration!
Local businesses and organizations can be part of the fun as well, with their own entry appearing in front of tens of thousands lining the parade route through downtown Bel Air on Friday, July 4.
Our parade is an annual tradition for thousands of local residents, and we work hard to make sure the parade is a terrific, fun-filled event for all involved, said parade chairman Michael Blum. But we cant do it without you!
The theme for 2014 is 200 Star-Spangled Years, and entrants are encouraged to decorate or craft their entry to illustrate or embody that theme. The deadline for applying to join the parade is FRIDAY, JUNE 13. See more at: http://www.harfordneighbors.net/index.php?section=1&subtype=81&id=6911#sthash.qOoyeDXj.dpuf (Source: harfordneighbors.net. Some changes were made.) ************************************************ - 4 -
Dates to Ponder:
Spring in Bloom Art Show June 1, and 5-8 2014 (Free) Noon - 5:00 pm Harford Artists Gallery, 503 Churchville Road, Bel Air. 12-5pm. Original artwork, pottery, jewelry, sculpture and fiber art by Harford County artists. 410.420.9499, or www.artinharford.org
Bel Air Town Run June 1, 2014 (Free) 8:00 am Main Street. Join Bel Airs Annual Town Run, a 5K foot race with a 1 mile walk. Sponsored by Renaissance All Sports Athletic Club and the Town of Bel Air. See website for registration fees. www.belairtownrun.com 410.652.9974
Harford County Restaurant Week June 2-14, 2014 Dinner Time Enjoy 3-course prix-fixe dinner at restaurants throughout the county for $20.14. Coordinated by Harford County Office of Economic Development & Tourism. www.harfordmd.com
Summer Concert Series at HdG Maritime Museum June 4, 2014 (Free) 7:00pm -9:00pm 100 Lafayette St., Havre de Grace. On Wednesday nights throughout the summer, the HdG Maritime Museum is hosting a concert series featuring a wide array of artists and groups. A small donation is suggested per person to defray expenses. The venue will be inside the museum, which is air-conditioned, and wine as well as beer will be available for purchase. More info at: 410.939.4800 hdgmaritimemuseum@verizon.net or www.hdgmaritimemuseum.org
Harford County Public Schools: Elementary Teachers Plannin Time Elementary Students Dismissed 3 ours Early June 6, 2014
First Fridays June 6, 2014 5:00pm - 8:00pm Located at Office Street. Harford Countys BEST block party. Local, live music; beer and wine; delicious food vendors; face painting; and more! Band: The Slanted Sound. Sponsored by the Bel Air Downtown Alliance. www.downtownbelair.com 443.823.1797
Farmers Market June 7, 14, 21, 28, 2014 7:00 am -11:00am Mary Risteau Courthouse Parking Lot, Thomas & Bond Streets. The market sells only fresh, local produce and fruit in season, locally raised beef, chicken, pork, milk, eggs, cheese, flowers and shrubs. Includes three organic vendors. Specialty vendors to include hummus, salsa, baked goods, jams/jellies, and more. Sponsored by the Town of Bel Air, Bel Air Farmers Market, Inc., and Harford County Office of Economic Development. For current market information, please refer to the website at www.belairfarmersmarket.comor farmers@belairfarmersmarket.com.
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Flag Day June 7, 2014 8:00am Shamrock Park (behind Town Hall). Join us for our yearly tradition of remembering the meaning and sacrifice represented in our American Flag. Along with an inspiring keynote speaker and Color Guard presentation, we will enjoy a variety of patriotic songs and music to honor our defenders of freedom. Sponsored by the Town of Bel Air. 410.638.4550
Ace of Hearts Foundation Car Show June 8, 2014 1:00pm - 4:00pm The Main Street Tower of Bel Air, 29 South Main St., Bel Air, Rain date June 29. The Ace of Hearts Foundation along with the Tower restaurant will be having The First Ace of Hearts Car Show featuring antique cars, cruisers and Hot Rods to raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancer in Maryland. All funds raised will benefit THE RED DEVILS which is a Maryland Group that provides support to Breast Cancer Families in Maryland. Cars will be shown in the parking lot adjacent to the Tower and on Main Street from the Tower to Pennsylvania Ave. Trophies will be award in the following categories, Best Hot Rod In Show, Best Antique car in Show and Peoples choice award. Presentation of trophies and drawing for raffles will take place at 4pm at the patio outside of the Tower Restaurant. Come join us for food and fun for all for a worthy cause. If you are interested in showing your car please contact Vickie Garret 443.807.1790 or Randy Garrett 410.365.6606. We are asking for a $15 donation to Ace of Hearts from each entry (a little will do so much to help ). There is a limit of about 50 car spaces available so act quickly to reserve your space in the show. www.aceofheartsride.or or ranvic2002@msn.com
Harford County Public Schools Last Student Day Summer Vacation Beins! June 12, 2014
Summer Concert Series: Bel Air Community Band June 15, 2014 (Free) 7:00pm - till Humbert Amphitheater, Shamrock Park. Outdoor concerts in Shamrock Park, featuring outstanding local musicians. Bring a picnic dinner and chair or blanket. Bel Air High School is available if rain or extreme heat causes us to move indoors. Sponsored by the Town of Bel Air and the Harford County Cultural Arts Board. 410.803.9784
Aberdeen I ronbirds Home Opener June 20, 2014 7:30pm Ripken Stadium, 873 Long Drive, Aberdeen. Come out for the 2014 Season Home Opener! Enjoy fun and food at the park! www.ripkenbaseball.com
Second Annual EdgeWoodstock Music Festival June 21, 2014 (Free) 10:00am - 5:00pm Edgewood Recreation and Park, 1702 Trimble Road, Edgewood. 10am-6pm. Enjoy a celebration of entertainment, food, vendors and children's activities. For more information visit the EdgewoodStock Facebook Page edgewoodstock.music@gmail.com.
Summer Concert Series: Baltimore Symphonic Band June 22, 2014 (Free) 7:00pm - till Humbert Amphitheater, Shamrock Park. Outdoor concerts in Shamrock Park, featuring outstanding local musicians. Bring a picnic dinner and chair or blanket. Bel Air High School is available if rain or extreme heat causes us to move indoors. Sponsored by the Town of Bel Air and the Harford County Cultural Arts Board. 410.803.9784
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Outdoor Movie: Frozen June 27, 2014 (Free Admission and Free Popcorn) 6:30pm 9:30pm Shamrock Park, Bel Air. Movie starts at dusk. Grab the kids and pack your blankets for great family friendly entertainment with movies under the stars at Shamrock Park! Festivities begin at 6:30pm and movies begin at sunset! Sponsored by the Bel Air Downtown Alliance. www.downtownbelair.com 443.823.1797
Darlington Independence Celebration June 28, 2014 (Free) 5:00pm Fireworks 9:15pm Castleton Road, Darlington. Parade line up, 4:00pm at the Scale House; parade begins, 5:00pm. American Idol Darlington karaoke competition at Silver Park, music, entertainment, refreshments. Fireworks 9:15 pm. Jerry Scarborough 410 836-3506
Summer Concert Series: Upper Chesapeake Chorus June 29, 2014 (Free) 7:00pm - till Humbert Amphitheater, Shamrock Park. Outdoor concerts in Shamrock Park, featuring outstanding local musicians. Bring a picnic dinner and chair or blanket. Bel Air High School is available if rain or extreme heat causes us to move indoors. Sponsored by the Town of Bel Air and the Harford County Cultural Arts Board. Free Admission. 410.803.9784
Last day for K-11 students is Thursday, June 12, 2014. Enjoy the summer! ******************************************
Abingdon Community Council
Meeting
June 23, 2014 at the Abingdon Public Library 6:30pm 7:30pm 2510 Tollgate Road, Abingdon, MD Special Guest Speaker: Lisa Mittman Branch Manager, Abingdon Public Library
Whats New at the Library!
Members: Cynthia Hergenhahn, Chairperson C. David Copenhaver Carlin Cook