Maybe it?s the weather. Maybe it?s because school is out for the first two days of the week. Maybe it?s because 2007 is not an Olympic year.
Whatever the reason, all is quiet in Harford County this week when it comes to Kimmie Meissner, even on the street named for her.
“It?s pretty calm, which is better for her, because she can concentrate on what she has to do,” said Brittany Geraghty, a close friend and classmate of the Fallston High senior. “She still has cameras in her face, but not as much in school anymore.”
Meissner, 17, is currently preparing for her third go-round at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, being held this week in Spokane, Wash. After winning the junior title in 2004, she took sixth in 2005 and second last January, good enough to land her on the U.S. Olympic teamand create countywide notoriety. She also won last year?s World Championships.
Located on the corner of Main Street and the aptly named Kimmie Way (formerly Pennsylvania Avenue) in Bel Air, Buontempo Brothers? Pizza was the host of a number of watch parties last year. But this year, according to manager Dave Anderson, the Italian eatery doesn?t have anything planned for this week?s national championships. If Meissner, who was en route to Spokane Monday and unavailable to comment had her way, she might prefer the quieter route.
“She still feels amazed that people think what she?s doing is special, because she?s doing what she loves to do,” said Harford County Public Schools director of public information Don Morrison, who has known Meissner since she was 11.
More than likely, the buzz has calmed for Meissner because this year?s national championships are not a qualifier for an upcoming Olympiad. Last season, Buontempo Brothers? restaurant held a fundraiser to help the Meissner family fly to Italy for the Olympics.
While all is quiet in Harford County now, things are likely to heat up later in the week. With defending champ Sasha Cohen and nine-time U.S. champion Michelle Kwan out of competition this week, Meissner is considered the favorite.
Geraghty, who?ll be watching at home with friends, said the lack of buzz is thanks to those who aren?t in tune with skating. But she promised: “They?ll find out soon.”
KIMMIE ON TV
» Thursday: Short program, 9 p.m. to 12 a.m., ESPN2
» Saturday: Free skate, 4-6 p.m., ABC
» Feb. 4: Ladies competition rebroadcast, 8-10 p.m., ESPN
