Voting

Unless you live under a rock and don't have a killer router getting you wifi, you know it's election day! I've always been one of those people who's obnoxious about getting out the vote.  I have a tshirt from the 2008 elections that I wore the entire day that says something akin to, "HEY, VOTE!" in slightly more campaign-like, yet nonpartisan, terminology.

I woke up this morning with a spring in my step, excited to vote in yet another historic election.  Steve Inskeep was talking about 2-hour waits in Florida.  Friends in Virginia were noting at least 45 minute-long waits at 7am.  I made sure to pack a book and some snacks for what I assumed would be a lengthy line later in the day.

Growing up, my father always volunteered at the polling stations.  I remember walking to the local public elementary school with my mother to deliver him lunch.  This is where I'd vote in high school, and where I cast my primary vote for the 2008 elections.  I've voted absentee for president and governor, all from the great state of Virginia.

It should be noted that the only reason I'm a registered MD voter is because I needed a MD license to get a city parking permit, and figured, "What the hell?"

My polling place here in Baltimore... is a public housing unit.  Gone are the days of shiny elementary schools paid for with tax dollars.  Gone are the lines of people with their $12 sandwiches and Coach bags.  Everyone in Northern Virginia seemed to treat voting like a chore, whereas here everyone seemed excited to vote.  All those around me seemed so gracious for this great right, that they treated like the privilege it is.  It was such a diverse group of Marylanders, all coming together to play a roll in this democratic system.  Because I'm getting way too preachy and "Hooray for America!", I'll just note that my friend told me today, "I just wanted to moonwalk out of the polling place, I was so excited.  I didn't, because I don't know how to moonwalk."  It should also be mentioned that my wait was maybe ten minutes.  No books or snacks were needed.

So you're new to Bmore - I sure hope you registered to vote.  I hope you looked for your polling place in any of the fantastic locations (here, here, here, or my favorite (NSFW), here).  I hope you read up on all the issues, all the candidates, and I hope you made an informed decision.  I hope you realize the significance of your decisions on local issues, from the Dream Act to Prop 6 to the casinos in Prop 7.

Most of all, I hope you made sure you got a sticker.  Mine is being worn with pride on a dorky vest by a patient basset.  We'll be watching the results come in with good friends at their house, ready to celebrate (or get super glum.  Results TBD).

Don't forget that it's still not too late to cast your (DAILY) ballot for So You're New to Bmore in the 2012 Mobbies!  Keep the votes coming in until Friday!

The Book Thing

Let me introduce you to the best thing in this city, bar none.  This is saying quite a bit, because I really do have serious love for the farmer's market.  The Book Thing , located on Vineyard Lane on the outskirts of Charles Village, is a magical place where you bring old books you no longer want and can pick up new ones for free.  Or, perhaps you just want to pick up books.  That's completely fine as well. It's all provided at no cost whatsoever.

I recently heard a Stoop Story podcast where Russell Wattenberg, creator of The Book Thing, explained the story behind what is now what other, larger cities lust after.  It's not only a wonderful concept, it's completely commendable.  Why not give up your old books to people who may want to read them?

The whole set-up is just like walking into the Christmas Happiness Warehouse for Nerds.  Just this past weekend, I found an almost-mint condition of Bill Bryson's "A Walk in the Woods."  I always explore the humor section, the classics, the cookbooks, travel books that are 20+years out of date...  Scouring the shelves is an adventure in and of itself.  So, if you're new to Charm City, hit it up.  Get some free books!