HOLIDAYS SEEM to invoke a nostalgic feeling in adults, and I'm certainly no exception. I've spent my entire life in Glen Burnie, and like many of us who grew up in the '60s, I grew up in an idyllic suburban setting where neighbors became close friends.
Oxford Drive was filled with kids my age. Most of us attended Holy Trinity School, which has since been renamed Arthur Slade.
During the school year, we spent our Saturdays in the youth league at Greenway Bowl. In the spring, we played softball, and in summer we swam in backyard pools.
There were plenty of sleep-overs and birthday parties. Our parents were friends who looked out for the neighborhood kids as if they were their own.
Of the 10 houses on the street, half are occupied by the original homeowners. So I knew what to expect on Christmas.
The houses would all be decorated with lights -- they are still there, but now for the benefit of grandchildren. The Turners' house would include two handmade signs with blue lights -- one spelling out "peace" and the other a circle with a blue cross inside.
There would be dozens of children, grandchildren and even great-grandchildren for whom Christmas means one thing: coming home.
So when my friends talk about spending Christmas week skiing out West or visiting Disney World down South, I just smile and nod. When it comes to destinations for Christmas, there's no place like home for the holidays.
College aid
With the rising cost of higher education, parents will want to mark their calendars for a financial aid workshop at 7 p.m. Jan. 6 in Glen Burnie High School auditorium.
The annual event will divide parents into two groups, those with college-bound seniors and those with students in other grades.
A representative from Villa Julie College will meet with parents of seniors to provide step-by-step guidance on "Free Application for Federal Student Aid."
For state scholarship money, FAFSA forms must be filed between Saturday and March 1.
GBHS guidance counselor Joanne Lyons said certified public accountant Michael Maseritz will talk to parents who have students in other grades.
"He'll explain what they might need to know financially before students begin their last year of high school," Lyons said. Maseritz will address IRS tax benefits, income and assets affecting eligibility, as well as how to evaluate aid packages.
Lyons explained that many parents miss out on aid because they wait too long. "Parents don't have to wait until their taxes forms are completed. They can use last year's tax return if they check `estimated.' "
Seniors received FAFSA forms before winter vacation, but extras will be available at the workshop. The school is at 7550 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd. Information: Lyons, 410-761-8950.
Latin gala
North Arundel Hospital will be turning up the heat February for its annual gala. Sponsored by the hospital's foundation, the event will be Feb. 12 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Tickets are $225 per person for the black-tie fund-raiser.
Following the theme "Merengue Madness," guests will enjoy a fiesta-style evening that will begin at 6: 30 p.m. with entertainment by Mambo Combo during a cocktail hour "street festival."
Dinner will be at 8 p.m., and guests will be invited to follow professional dancers from Viva Brazil Revista to their seats.
"A simple idea of celebrating Latin culture and music has been transformed into what will surely be a fabulous evening," said gala chairwoman Marrian McCormick. "I have been fortunate to work with a committee that has tremendous vision. I invite everyone to join us for a fiesta like no other, while supporting a truly worthwhile cause."
Proceeds benefit women's health services at North Arundel.
Information: 410-553-8560.
