Readers continue to respond, debate and complain on Patch sites acorss Howard County. This past week, readers questioned the decision to place three Mexican restaurants at one intersection and the wisdom and long-term effects of shifting some of the financial responsibility of the state teacher pension system to local jurisdictions while one reader learned of the existence of Howard Community College athletics. The HCC men's basketball team finished the regular season with a 12-12 record and earned a berth on the NJCAA Region XX tournament. Assistant Coach Jay Nowaskey has partnered with …

Patch has compiled some of the the most blunt, thoughtful and outrageous comments on Howard County Patch sites this week. Readers talked the most on how to find the right dog for your family,Gov. O’Malley’s gas tax proposal, the Great Pool Debate in Columbia and how the community of Savage has embraced Burmese families. Choosing the Right Dog For Your Family “Fabulous! A dog will change your life. My dog gives me a reason to get up every day. Wonderful article and thank you for letting people know what a serious responsibility it is when you get a pup. Great job.” -  michele c dimity …

  Readers took their opinions to Howard County Patch sites this week, flocking most to stories about a mystery photo in Savage, Howard County’s opposition to pension shift costs, Maryland gay marriage legislation and a cat adopted after being featured on Ellicott City Patch. Where in Savage Is This? "Lived in Savage for 23 years....and have seen that photo many times. Did you know that the “original” water pipes were made of elm wood? The county found them when they put in the modern pipes...I think it might be near the current post office. No more picket fences, and they widened the street …

Readers took their opinions to the comments section on Howard County Patch sites last week, flocking most to stories about speed cameras (coming to a neighborhood near you Today) and the now defunct proposal to appoint two members to the school board in an effort to bring more diversity to the board. ELLICOTT CITY: “Now THIS is a sign of how democracy and the power of the people truly work. The overwhelming majority was heard at the public hearing and Del. Turner realized what they were saying. …  Now, will those same voices speak as loudly at the polls in the future?” – Brook, on the story …