The Weather:
"Sunny, with a high near 45. Calm wind. Monday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 26. Light and variable wind." — The National Weather Service

More Toys for Tots:

A big Columbia Patch shout-out goes to Cub Scout Pack 606 and Hammond Elementary School Principal Judith Bland, who are going to a little extra trouble tonight based on an inquiry from yours truly.

In putting together an article last week on the dire condition of the local Toys for Tots drive, I discovered the folks of Pack 606 were planning to collect toys at their den meeting tonight.

I placed a call to Den Leader Mike Scanlon, asking him if I could list his event as one where residents could drop off toys.

Not wanting to interrupt his meeting, Scanlon contacted Bland and worked out arrangements to use the school lobby for two hours before the scout meeting to collect toys.

So the kids of Cub Scout Pack 606 would appreciate it if you can drop off toys between 5 and 7 p.m. tonight at the Hammond Elementary School, 8110 Aladdin Drive.

Deck the House:

Get your house ready for its Christmas (or other winter holiday) closeup!

Patch is holding a national house decoration contest, and we need pictures of your house all dressed up for a winter holiday.

Get the details and find out what you have to do to enter your house.

The grand prize winner 's school district will win $100,000.

Holiday Traditions:

Once again, I'm asking you to share your holiday traditions with Patch and your neighbors.

I'd love to hear from you if you have a special holiday tradition. Do you always set your Christmas tree up on the same date? Are the decorations homemade and carry special memories? Are you the fifth generation to be entrusted with the family menorah?

Tell me about your special traditions or memories. Send an email to marge.neal@patch.com, and please include a phone number at which I can reach you.

As always, pictures receive extra credit!

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Howard County Week in Review

You Said It: Debate Fierce Over Protections for Transgendered People

Neighborhood Feature: Village of Hickory Ridge

Two Columbia Teens Struck by Car During Wednesday's Rainstorm

Howard County Toys for Tots: 'We Hurting'

Pampered Pups for Sale: 'Charm City Puppies' Live High on the Dog

Columbia Athletes Appear in National Playoffs

Atholton Grad Part of Maine Event

Chamber Holds 'Jingle Mingle' at Savage Mill

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Cars May Be Turning Into Computers but Police Warn the Law is the Law