The article from the Frederick News-Post was alright considering the reporter had no lapwing to look at when she was out chatting with folks along the road.  She should, however, learn to do a better job of fact-checking or the folks who talk to reporters should do a better job of getting their facts right.  The reporter wrote:

"Many birders have posted on the Maryland Ornithological Society's Web site,
saying they sympathize with those who live along Graceham Road."

One does not post to the MD Ornithological Society website.  One does post to the MDOsprey listserv, a service dedicated to the birds and birders of Maryland and ENTIRELY unaffiliated with the MD Ornithological Society.  This may seem a small point to some but it is a constant thorn to me.

Oh, and that new state bird?  Fran and I saw 4 Black-bellied Whistling Ducks this morning at the Wakodahatchee Wetlands in Palm Beach County.  Haven't had a new Florida bird in a long time!

Best,
Norm Saunders
West Ocean City & Colesville, MD