June 2018
It is time to remember that old wisdom our soldiers will never forget: that whether we are black or brown or white, we all bleed the same red blood of patriots, we all enjoy the same glorious freedoms, and we all salute the same great American Flag.
Well, here we are, once again, standing at the threshold of summer. No doubt, it truly is my favorite season. The world is alive and vibrant in the summer. It’s a time for family, for vacations, the outdoors and just enjoying our world and our families. Summer time is where the “action is” It seems like every weekend there is some event, someplace
to go, a neighbor or relative we want to visit.
I hope your summer plans are as full as mine! ……If they’re not, don’t worry there will be plenty to do right here in Taneytown. We have a lot planned this summer. Coming up, right away is the annual Relay for Life event being held June 2nd at Carroll Vista. This event is open to all and has become quite a major part of the national Rely for Life
Campaign.
It began several years ago as an “off shoot” of the bigger, more regional “Relay” in Westminster. I encourage you all to take some time on Saturday June 2nd to help raise funds to defeat cancer. If you need more information on how you may participate, check with City Hall (410-751-1100) or e mail Donna Rudolph (donnarudolph@verizon.net). The
Taneytown Historical Museum will host “Hudson Day” on Saturday June 9th at the Museum (340 E. Baltimore St). The museum was once the site of a Hudson Dealership. We expect to have a Hudson vehicles actually sold from this dealership on display. I really enjoy car shows; I know I’ll be there.
In June we have another annual big event, our annual Wine, Art & Brewfest, to be held at Memorial Park on June 16th. Come explore local wineries and the many other vendors that will be on hand. This year a local brewer/ distiller will also be there. I look forward to seeing you!
In July, the weekend after we celebrate Independence Day we have something new! Our town will be hosting the Taneytown Terrier Trials. This two day event will feature Jack Russell terriers from all over the area competing for fame and glory (& and prizes). If you have never watched these amazing little dogs in action, you owe it to yourself to stop
by and cheer on your favorite. Taneytown’s own Ambassador “Oscar” will, of course be the “headliner”.
If that’s not enough, before July is over, we will again have our annual Concert in the Park. We were rained our last year but make plans for July 21st for an enjoyable afternoon. With all the events planned lest, not forget or summer holidays. We’ve just celebrated and remembered our love ones who gave their all for our freedom. I hope you were
able to attend a Memorial Day Service. I know of no better way to begin the summer season.
Flag Day will soon follow, June 14th. Make sure to fly “Old Glory” proudly, that day. Something else, we have received a “Main Street” grant for the beautification of our Main Street areas. One of the things we’re planning to do is decorate, with patriotic buntings, all along the Main Street district. This will complement the very well received
lamp post posters honoring our Veterans. If you would like to purchase a bunting, for personal use, please contact Nancy McCormick at City Hall or a member of the Main Street Board. If that weren’t enough, Father’s Day is celebrated on June 17th. We Dad’s sometime get overlooked (in today’s society) but this is a special time to remember that guy, who more than
you may realize, helped make you who you are. Spend some time with Dad, let him know how much he is appreciated.
Maybe…
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Arrange a BBQ and invite all of the fathers in your family.
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Spend the day with Dad doing one of his favorite activities: fishing, golfing, hiking.
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Complete one of dad's chores or projects as a surprise. If it's something you don't know how to do, offer to help and learn.
I’ve gone on long enough about all the “goings on” and am almost out of space. There’s a lot more I want to share. Business is booming in Taneytown! A new flower shop and a new restaurant have opened since I last wrote you. EZ Does Bar and Grill has opened at the site of the old Gunner’s Grill (W Baltimore St) and I must say I have enjoyed my
visits! Floral Fetes, our new florist opened in mid-May and will have a Grand Opening on June 14th. Besides flowers, the shop will be featuring works of local artists. You all are invited to come in a “look around”. There plenty more to come, so stay tuned.
I guess it time to get down to the business of the City. We’ve been busy as usual. The big news is that Council approved the FY 2018-19 Operating Budget along with its associated ordinances (Tax Rate, Water & Sewer Rate, & Capital Budget) he tax rate and the water and sewer rates will remain the same! No New Taxes!!
Some big news, contained in the Capital Budget, is the Council provided for funding of two long discussed/planned projects to expand our park system. We fully funded the development of Bollinger Park as a nature/passive park and observatory, for all to enjoy and to serve as a teaching opportunity for our youngsters.
Additionally we will move forward with a Gazebo in Memorial Park that will enable us to host and expand events like those I’ve already talked about (i.e.: Concerts in the Park, Wine Fest etc.). We also have big news out of Annapolis!
WE DID IT! After many years or wrangling with the General Assembly, over the restoration of Highway User Revenue (HUR’s, cut by the O’Malley administration), These a funds ear-marked to maintain our roads. The Senate & House both unanimously passed bills to restore these funds to the pre-cut levels over the next few years. A combined effort by
municipalities from all over the state resulted in this victory.
