Elkridge will officially have its own ZIP Code, 21075, starting July 1, a change that residents have sought for 28 years to address issues with insurance, package deliveries, and mailing lists. Congressman Benjamin L. Cardin announced this significant development at the Elkridge Branch Library on April 21, attributing the allocation to area growth and service needs. Cordelia Hanson, a dedicated resident, is recognized for her relentless efforts in leading letter-writing campaigns and petitions to make this happen. Congressman Cardin is also pursuing the establishment of a separate postal facility for Elkridge.
In other community news, the Elkridge Youth Organization and the Elkridge Adult Athletic Association were jointly honored with a governor’s volunteerism award for their 19 years of service to young athletes at Rockburn Branch Park. Dave Grabowski represented both groups at the award presentation. Additionally, the EAAA has provided $29,000 in scholarships to local youth. The Viaduct newspaper also expressed its gratitude to the individuals who braved difficult weather in 1994 to gather the necessary petitions for the new ZIP Code. To ensure its continued free distribution, The Viaduct depends on the generosity of its patrons.
A point of community contention is the proposed Browning-Ferris Industries trash transfer station, with Cordelia B. Hanson voicing strong opposition to The Howard County Sun’s editorial support for the project, arguing that Elkridge should not be a repository for unwanted waste. Simultaneously, the long-standing zoning case involving Elkridge Motors continues, raising concerns about the adequacy of the county’s legal representation. The Elkridge Community Association intends to address this issue with the County Executive. For those residing outside Elkridge who wish to receive The Viaduct, a subscription is available for $10.00 annually, with the paper being published bi-monthly.
A piece of local history was celebrated as fire department captain Todd Robbins’ Engine 12 marked its 50th anniversary. This Mack engine, acquired in 1947, is currently being restored. However, both Robbins and Engine 12 are планируют переехать to Halifax, Virginia, in the future. A prominent figure in the community, Polly Thornton of The Viaduct, was named the grand marshal for the upcoming Elkridge Volunteer Fire Dept. Parade on June 28, recognized for her positive portrayal of Elkridge life.
The community also celebrated Irma Whaley’s 80th birthday and Rev. Gerard J. Bowen’s 20th anniversary at St. Augustine’s Church. Welcoming new additions, birth announcements were shared for Benjamin Joseph Wilson, Justin Alexander Lee, and Claire Gaffney McKussick.
The Elkridge Community Association’s recent meeting covered various topics, including the implications of the new ZIP Code, environmental studies along Tiber Run and Deep Run, and legislative updates. The future of the old Elkridge Elementary School was discussed following the County Executive’s announcement that it was no longer needed by the county. Concerns were also raised about increased airport noise and a potential broadening of the ECA’s name to better reflect the involvement of neighboring areas.
From the legislative front, Congressman Benjamin L. Cardin highlighted proposed legislation to improve Medicare’s hospice benefit and provide capital gains tax relief for homeowners. Delegate Don Murphy reported on the successful passage of “Ryan’s Law,” which addresses drunk driving offenses, as well as other legislative actions concerning prison phone calls, sex offender registration, and the unsuccessful attempts to legislate on same-sex marriage during the General Assembly session.
In local business news, Elkridge Bank has transitioned to FCNB Bank, promising expanded services and convenience. Burger King is set to open at the site of the former Elkridge Restaurant, while Rite Aid’s expansion plans have encountered obstacles. The opening of a medical center near Colonial Landing Apartments is delayed. Several local businesses, including Coleman’s Flooring, Austin’s Collision Repair, Commercial Tire, Elkridge Family Dentistry, and McDonald’s of Elkridge, were featured in the community publication.
Elkridge Elementary School hosted a Family Fun Night, reminiscent of past May Day celebrations. Bill Prehn, a long-time Elkridge resident, received a prestigious award from the Boy Scouts for his extensive community service. A memorial garden party honored the memory of the beloved former teacher, Miss Suki. The school is also planning to implement enhanced reading instruction. Rockburn Elementary School reported on successful fundraising efforts. The Elkridge Heritage Society has planned a slide show presentation on Elkridge’s history, an ice cream social, and participation in Heritage Day. The Kiwanis Club is currently fundraising through a cruise raffle and actively participated in the Arbutus Arts Festival.
Ethics in Howard County government was a topic of concern raised by Jim Holway. The former owner of Rosa Bonheur Memorial Park, William A. Green, was found guilty of theft related to the handling of pet cremations. A pet cemetery also exists within Meadowridge Memorial Park. The Elkridge Senior Center announced its upcoming schedule of activities. The Elkriage Evening Quilters are raffling a quilt to support the family of Andrew Morris. The Howard County Library announced children’s programs for the summer. Beth Paradis, a Montgomery Road resident, won a county-wide logo contest. Information regarding the Elkridge Carnival, scheduled for June 24-29, was shared. VFW Post 8097 released its schedule of events. The return of hummingbirds to the area was noted, and a sheep shearing event took place at a local farmette. Barbara Hatfield, a Harwood resident, received an award from the U.S. Postal Service. In a lighthearted fundraising event, Father Gerry Bowen of St. Augustine’s Church participated in a contest that resulted in him kissing a cow. The newspaper also included an In Memoriam section, acknowledging recently deceased community members.
Link to full issue:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HroGT0Dym1v2HUXuk8tzaLmiCvpEOY9I/view?usp=drive_link