Top 5: A Hallmark Farewell, Watchdogs Oppose Pit

1. Cape Residents Take Stand Against 'The Pit'

A group of vigilant Cape St. Claire residents saw a problem at The Pit behind Broadneck High and decided to do something about it. Their actions drew police attention to activity behind the school, which precipitated a string of charges against juveniles in February, and the arrest of a 23-year-old man with six knives in his vehicle and drug paraphernalia.

2. Customers Say Goodbye to Bay Hills Card & Gift Shop 

Along the storefront of the former Bay Hills Card & Gift are a series of thank you messages from loyal customers. The Arnold-based Hallmark location closed its doors this week, after being open for just over 25 years.

3. Mother's Launches Free Shuttle Service for Patrons

Having a night out drinking with friends at Mother's Peninsula Grille in Arnold just got a little more convenient, and a lot safer. The bar and restaurant, which opened in October, recently launched a shuttle service that will pick up customers from their homes and drop them off at the restaurant. When they’re done for the night, the shuttle will take them back to their homes.

4. Broadneck High: A Haven for Young Writers

Earlier this month, 24 high school students from Anne Arundel County high schools were awardedin the Young Authors Contest. Among them, 12 hailed from Broadneck High School. Patch caught up with Maureen Thomas, who teaches creative writing at BHS, to learn what makes writers thrive at the school.

5.

Anne Arundel Community College officials approved their latest budget for 2014, which includes $2 million in raises for employees—the first raises the college has doled out in more than four years.