Towson High School's Gerry Brewster, former teacher of U.S. Olympic gold medal swimmer Michael Phelps, is the guest columnist for this week's Towson column. Here's what Gerry has to say:

"The world's top male and female swimmers are both from Towson -- amazing by any standard! This year's Olympics in Beijing will spotlight Michael Phelps and Katie Hoff. All of us in Baltimore County and throughout Maryland are especially proud to call them our own.

"Years ago, I had the good fortune to be Michael's ninth-grade government teacher at Towson High School. That classroom experience led to an appreciation for Michael and his family that I will always cherish. Michael's older sisters Hilary and Whitney, world-class swimmers in their own right, showed Michael the way. Their mother, Debbie, made it all happen with her total devotion and commitment to her children. A true family effort.

"When I reflect on the personal sacrifices that they made in their personal lives to make this dream come true, I know beyond any doubt that this family has earned the success that they are experiencing now. Hard work does pay off.

"This summer I, and millions of others around the world, will be glued to the tube watching Michael's races. No doubt it will seem strange not being there. Four years ago, I was fortunate enough to spend all day, every day, at the pool in Athens, Greece, watching Michael swim in the 2004 Summer Olympics, and before that I joined him and his family for the Olympic trials in Long Beach, Calif., and at the 2003 World Championships in Barcelona, Spain. Although I won't be in China, my cheers will be just as loud and my support just as strong, as we all join together in our pride that the likes of Michael and Katie will represent our country with the best that they have to offer. Congratulations Michael and Katie. You have made us all very proud. May you swim fast and have fun!"

Here's another fine student whose name may be in lights one day. Christopher McPherson became an Honor Scout this year for Troop 497, out of 80 scouts. He was inducted into the National Honor Society, and Towson High School's Law and Public Policy magnet program named him Law Student of the Year. He is the bronze medal winner for the Medusa Mythology Exam and the silver medal winner for the National Mythology Exam.

The Historical Society of Baltimore County is presenting some very interesting and provocative programs this summer. The workshops are led by Glenn Johnston, limited to eight participants each and costs $15 for members and $25 for nonmembers. All programs will take place at the Almshouse, 9811 Van Buren Lane, Cockeysville. To register, call 410-666-1878 or e-mail bchistory@verizon.net.

If you are interested in getting in touch with the Bee Keepers of Providence Road, we need to give you a corrected e-mail address. The right one is billmcallen@comcast.net.

It's summer and that means it is vacation time. And we, in Towson, don't have to travel far to enjoy some delightful destinations. The Fire Museum of Maryland, located at 1301 York Road, is ranked as one of the finest fire-fighting museums in the United States. The Fire Museum of Maryland opened in 1971 and displays apparatus dating from 1806 to 1957. Over 50 rigs are on display, complemented by a broad range of special exhibits. These include a working fire-alarm-telegraph system, badge and uniform displays and Baltimore's high- pressure pumping system. Call 410-321-7500 to pick a time to visit.

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