Maryland's Top 5: Our Most Popular Facebook Stories This Week

It's been a busy week in Maryland, and fortunately there was plenty of good news to go around. From a baby giraffe to a generous boss, take a look at what our Patch readers were sharing and talking about on Facebook for the week of February 12.

Maryland Zoo Welcomes First Baby Giraffe Since 1997

The female giraffe was born earlier this month, coming in at 6 feet 1 inch tall and 125 pounds. The newborn will not be making any public appearances any time soon, at least until she becomes acclimated to her environment. According to zoo personnel, she appears to be in good health. Check out more pictures of the new giraffe and her family here.

Annapolis Boss To Share $50K Scratch-Off Win With Employee

What started as an errand led to big bucks for coworkers and friends Ilyas Terzi and Rogelio Sanchez. The pair work together at at Ilyas’ company, AU Granite & Marble LLC in Annapolis. Ilyas said he plans to share a portion of the $50,000 prize with Rogelio for picking the lucky instant ticket. He also plans to incorporate Rogelio into his attempt to win the rapidly rising Powerball jackpot.

Havre de Grace Shines Blue for Slain Deputies

Havre de Grace Mayor William T. Martin issued an order for the lights in downtown Havre de Grace to shine blue last week in remembrance of the two deputies who died in the line of duty one year ago. Senior Deputy Patrick Dailey and his colleague Deputy First Class Mark Logsdon were fatally shot last February while pursuing a wanted individual.

Teen Saved from Drowning at Edgewood Pool: Officials

A swim coach, a parent and a swimmer are responsible for saving the life of a 16-year old girl who experienced a shallow-water blackout in the Edgewood Middle School pool. Shallow water blackouts are caused by rising and falling carbon dioxide and oxygen levels while trying to hold one's breath underwater. Within five minutes of the 911 call, first responders arrived to find the swimmer out of the water and talking due to the efforts of those on the scene.

Mission BBQ Opens 43rd Location in Maryland

MISSION BBQ announced that its newest restaurant will be in Gambrills, making it the 13th location in the state. As is tradition with the opening of every MISSION BBQ, the new location will host charity nights throughout the week leading up to the grand opening on Monday, March 6. All sales will be donated to organizations chosen by local police and fire departments in the Gambrills Community.

Photo courtesy of the Maryland Zoo