IT'S BEEN a busy year in Glen Burnie. Not just the big stories -- light rail extensions, Super Block plans and the opening of yet another discount department store. There were also the people and events that define what a community means to its residents. Here is a look back at a few Neighbors stories that helped make that difference.
January found community activist Lola Hand the guest of honor at a celebration of her contributions to the community. Political figures, teachers and neighbors lauded the retiring president of the Suburbia Civic Association for her work on environmental concerns, politics and social issues. State Sen. Philip C. Jimeno told the crowd, "The air is a little cleaner, the water is a little cleaner and the environment is a little better because of Lola's efforts."
More than 130 area youths gathered in the kitchen of Holy Trinity Catholic Church to prepare food for the homeless at the 14th annual Shelter-A-Thon in February. Youth organizers Sharon Morgan and Joy Wilburt oversaw the youths' efforts as they made 54 gallons of soup, nine gallons of spaghetti sauces, 20 casseroles and 98 dozen cookies. The food was distributed to Sarah's House, Oasis, My Sister's Place and My Sister's Lodge.
Glen Burnie lost a patriot when John R. McNeese passed away in March. Active in VFW Post 434 in Marley, McNeese was a career soldier who spent his retirement reminding us that freedom comes with a price tag and that we should never forget those who fought to defend our freedoms.
Youth Art Month was celebrated in March as Glen Burnie Mall showcased the work of 50 county students. A banner designed by Laura Horne, then a senior at Glen Burnie High School, was selected to represent Maryland and fly over the Old Post Office Pavilion in Washington.
April brought a story of personal triumph, as Glen Burnie resident Robert Pearson earned his black belt in karate -- an achievement made all the more impressive because he has no arms, a result of a hereditary disease.
The brightest and best of Glen Burnie High School's Class of 1997 were honored at a ceremony in May. Asa Edward Johnson Jr. could have saved a lot of time by staying on stage to receive his eight awards. Kristy Pence was honored for perfect attendance in ninth through 12th grade.
June arrived and classes were out for the summer, but that didn't stop Richard and Harriet Cavey from going to school. The Glen Burnie couple spent the summer tending to gardens at Corkran Middle School. The gardens were part of a science project started by the Caveys.
