'We Can't Just Close School Every Time It's Cold Out:' You Said It!

Carroll County residents shared their thoughts and opinions on local stories on Patch's Facebook page. Here's a roundup of some of the heartfelt, serious and downright strange comments -- you said it!


Are Pitbulls Dangerous?
Patch looks at Pitbull ownership in Maryland. 

"Well, I've never been bitten by a pit bull; I have been bitten by a poodle." -- Cindy Lord

"Anyone who says any breed of dog is more or less dangerous than another is a complete idiot. There's no evidence to support that genetics is what effects volatility in dogs. " -- Josh Gilberto

A Runaway Sleeps Over at School
An 11-year-old Westminster girl was reported missing Monday evening and was found unharmed Tuesday morning at West Middle School, where she reportedly spent the night. 

"Glad she was safe, but she needs a serious dressing down." -- Colleen Janice Rinaldo

School Closed for Cold? 
A discussion ensued on Westminster Patch's Facebook page about whether schools should have been closed Monday due to the frigid temperatures. 

"And what about those children with serious health conditions? Is it really fair for them to get a mark against them because they can't physically withstand the weather?" -- Jackie Jax Stem

"Closing the schools for extreme cold has nothing to do with the schools or the transportation, but the pupils. It simply is not worth putting children in harm. Plain and simple." -- Brad Brown

"It's one thing when the school buildings themselves are too cold, but we can't just close school every time it's cold out. What do people think kids in Canada and Alaska do?" -- Josh Gilberto

"It's cold but not unbearable if dressed appropriately. The parent in other county's should be the ones complaining. Our children are soft enough as it. A little cold ( if dressed appropriately) won't hurt them." -- Steve Potorti

"It's interesting to me that when issues arise like this, the highest authority is the one to blame. Are we not an authority figure ourselves as parents? If you want to keep your kid home, do it. Who cares! If it's not an excused absence, who cares." -- Michelle Craig

"Alaska's residents (as well as its buildings!!!) are used and PREPARED to this weather, as opposed to us who are experiencing THE COLDEST DAY IN 130+ years and are definitely not used to this!!! Please the school system closes for extreme heat but not extreme cold??!!!" -- Marta E. Cruz-Alicia

Carroll's State Representatives Talk Local Issues
Carroll County's Delegates held a public hearing Monday night to discuss issues they intend to pursue during the legislative session that began Wednesday. 

"Interesting that there is nothing listed about getting proper funding from the state for our public school system. Carroll County pays more in taxes to the state but receives less than other counties with regard to education." -- Katie Gerity