2012 in Review: Top Stories from March

March of 2012 was a month filled with controversy, but at least we finally got a new council member to represent District 1. 

Here's a look at some of the top stories from March in the Odenton and Severn area. 

Engineers Questioned on Route 3 Traffic Pattern

Suffice it to say, the new "Michigan U" traffic pattern on Route 3 has been a source of conversation among residents in west Anne Arundel County. The Greater Crofton Council held a forum on the issue in March, and learned that perhaps the new pattern was the best solution under the circumstances.

Students Plead for Return of Popular Teacher

A teacher at Arundel High was temporarily reassigned after exchanging tweets with a student, prompting an outcry among other students who called for him to return to the classroom. Many students even testified before the school board. The popular social studies teacher was able to return to class within a few weeks. 

Council Swears in Smith

After a long saga, the county council voted in Peter Smith to fill the vacant seat for District 1. Later in 2012, voters approved changes to the county charter designed to avoid such drama in the future. 

Anne Arundel County Police Chief James Teare came before the county council in March to address the department's involvement with the indictment against County Executive John R. Leopold. He ultimately refused to answer most questions from the council members.

Train Stopped After Vandals Put Debris On Track

It was a nightmarish commute for some MARC commuters on day in March, when someone threw what appeared to be a truck tire onto the tracks. 

See also: 

• Top Stories from January
• Top Stories from February
• Top Stories from April