The Viaduct – Vol 6 No 6 – December 1993

Article Summaries – The Viaduct (December 1993 – January 1994 Issue)

  1. “Post Office Petition Drive – Elkridge Residents Push for Their Own ZIP Code”
    • Elkridge residents are organizing a petition to request a unique ZIP code, arguing that sharing the Baltimore 21227 code causes misdelivered mail and increased insurance rates. The petition reflects ongoing frustration with the Postal Service’s refusal to assign a distinct ZIP code to Elkridge.
  2. “Postal Rep Delivers His Message to the ECA”
    • At a recent Elkridge Community Association (ECA) meeting, a U.S. Postal Service representative addressed concerns about ZIP code issues. He explained that while Elkridge meets some criteria for a new code, the volume of mail does not justify the change. Residents were informed that a new ZIP code is unlikely before 2015.
  3. “President’s Message”
    • The ECA President reflects on the year’s successes, including increased community engagement. He encourages residents to stay involved in ongoing zoning issues and upcoming developments while thanking volunteers for their contributions to local events and causes.
  4. “Dear Viaduct – Letters from the Community”
    • This section features letters from residents discussing various local concerns. Topics include frustration over increasing traffic, environmental worries about commercial developments, and praise for community events like the Halloween parade.
  5. “Class of ’58 – 35th Reunion Celebration”
    • Graduates from Elkridge High School’s Class of 1958 gathered for their 35th reunion. The event celebrated lifelong friendships and community roots while sharing memories of their school days and the changes in Elkridge over the years.
  6. “Shelter Rep Addresses ECA Meeting – Senior Housing Plans Announced”
    • Shelter Development Corporation presented plans to build a 110-unit senior housing complex on Old Washington Road. The complex will offer affordable housing for elderly residents, addressing a growing need for senior accommodations in Elkridge.
  7. “Elkridge Motors Update – Zoning and Environmental Concerns Continue”
    • Elkridge Motors remains under scrutiny for potential zoning violations and environmental risks following the unauthorized removal of underground petroleum storage tanks. The ECA continues to monitor the case closely, emphasizing the need for stronger environmental oversight.
  8. “Elkridge Man in Sarajevo – Local Airman’s Mission in War-Torn Bosnia”
    • Captain John Wilkens, an Elkridge resident and U.S. Air Force pilot, is part of the humanitarian mission delivering food and supplies to Sarajevo during the Bosnian conflict. The article highlights his commitment to service and the challenges faced in war zones.
  9. “Musing by Betty Mastrounni”
    • A light-hearted column by Betty Mastrounni reflects on seasonal traditions, community life, and humorous observations about the quirks of living in a small town.
  10. “School News – Updates from Elkridge and Rockburn Elementary”
  • Both Elkridge and Rockburn Elementary Schools report a successful fall semester. Highlights include student awards, holiday programs, and plans for a spring fundraising initiative to support educational resources and extracurricular activities.
  1. “The Zealous Fathers – A Historical Reflection by Christopher Vale”
  • Historian Christopher Vale shares the story of Catholic missionaries in the Elkridge area during the 18th century. The article emphasizes their role in establishing the faith in Maryland and the challenges they faced during a time of religious tension.
  1. “Halloween Parade Big Success at Super Fresh”
  • The Elkridge Business and Professional Association organized a successful Halloween parade at Super Fresh, drawing over 300 children in costume. The event featured prizes, candy giveaways, and community entertainment.
  1. “Merry and Definitely Bright – Holiday Home Decoration Contest”
  • The Elkridge Business and Professional Association announced the winners of their Holiday Home Decoration Contest, recognizing residents who displayed festive and creative outdoor decorations.
  1. “Santa’s Visits Aid Children’s Center – Jaycees’ Annual Fundraiser”
  • The Elkridge Jaycees organized their annual Santa’s Visits fundraiser to support the Howard County Children’s Center. Proceeds from the event will provide holiday gifts and financial assistance for underprivileged children.
  1. “Local Lawyer Opens Office in Elkridge – Steven A. Rafkin Begins Practice”
  • Steven A. Rafkin, a lifelong Elkridge resident, has opened a new law office specializing in family law and estate planning. He aims to serve the community by offering affordable legal services and local representation.
  1. “Smilin’ All the Way to the Library – Community Triumph Over Truck Stop Proposal”
  • This article celebrates the successful community effort to block a proposed truck stop on Route 1. Thanks to persistent opposition, the site now houses the new Elkridge Branch Library, symbolizing the power of local activism.

Summary – The Viaduct (December 1993 – January 1994 Issue)

The December 1993 – January 1994 issue of The Viaduct highlights community advocacy and local achievements. The Post Office Petition Drive leads efforts to secure a unique ZIP code for Elkridge, citing delivery issues and higher insurance rates under the Baltimore 21227 code. Despite community demands, a Postal Service representative stated that a new ZIP code is unlikely before 2015.

Local development remains a concern as Shelter Development Corporation announces plans for a 110-unit senior housing complex on Old Washington Road. Meanwhile, the Elkridge Motors zoning case continues with environmental concerns after unauthorized petroleum tank removals.

The issue also shares the inspiring story of Captain John Wilkens, an Elkridge resident who has been flying aid missions to Sarajevo during the Bosnian conflict. In a community success story, the new Elkridge Library stands on land once proposed for a controversial truck stop, thanks to grassroots opposition.

Other features include the Class of ’58 reunion, school news from Elkridge and Rockburn Elementary, and a holiday home decoration contest organized by the Elkridge Business and Professional Association. Additionally, Steven A. Rafkin, a local resident, opens a community-centered law office.

Throughout the issue, there is a consistent theme of community pride, activism, and civic responsibility, reflecting Elkridge’s dedication to shaping its future.

Link to full issue:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OcjjbR6-wHmQNAEuJrZv4HyiA5haZE6Z/view?usp=drive_link