Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company, Buffalo, New York, Assumes All of the Deposits of Bradford Bank, Baltimore, Maryland
http://www.fdic.gov/news/news/press/2009/pr09155.html
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2009
Bradford Bank, Baltimore, Maryland, was closed today by the Office of Thrift Supervision, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. To protect the depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company (M&T), Buffalo, New York, to assume all of the deposits of Bradford Bank.
The nine branches of Bradford Bank will reopen on Saturday as branches of M&T. Depositors of Bradford Bank will automatically become depositors of M&T. Depositors will continue to be insured by the FDIC, so there is no need for customers to change their banking relationship to retain their deposit insurance coverage. Customers should continue to use their existing branches until M&T can fully integrate the deposit records of Bradford Bank.
This evening and over the weekend, depositors of Bradford Bank can access their money by writing checks or using ATM or debit cards. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.
As of June 30, 2009, Bradford Bank had total assets of $452 million and total deposits of approximately $383 million. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, M&T agreed to purchase essentially all of the failed bank's assets.
The FDIC and M&T entered into a loss-share transaction on approximately $338 million of Bradford Bank's assets. M&T will share in the losses on the asset pools covered under the loss-share agreement. The loss-sharing arrangement is projected to maximize returns on the assets covered by keeping them in the private sector. The agreement also is expected to minimize disruptions for loan customers.
Customers who have questions about today's transaction can call the FDIC toll-free at 1-800-640-2693. The phone number will be operational this evening until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time (EDT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., EDT; on Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m., EDT; and thereafter from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., EDT. Interested parties can also visit the FDIC's Web site at http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/bradford-md.html.
The FDIC estimates that the cost to the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) will be $97 million. M&T's acquisition of all the deposits was the "least costly" resolution for the FDIC's DIF compared to alternatives. Bradford Bank is the 82nd FDIC-insured institution to fail in the nation this year, and the second in Maryland. The last FDIC-insured institution closed in the state was Suburban Federal Savings Bank, Crofton, on January 30, 2009.
# # #
Congress created the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation in 1933 to restore public confidence in the nation's banking system. The FDIC insures deposits at the nation's 8,195 banks and savings associations and it promotes the safety and soundness of these institutions by identifying, monitoring and addressing risks to which they are exposed. The FDIC receives no federal tax dollars – insured financial institutions fund its operations.
FDIC press releases and other information are available on the Internet at www.fdic.gov, by subscription electronically (go to www.fdic.gov/about/subscriptions/index.html) and may also be obtained through the FDIC's Public Information Center (877-275-3342 or 703-562-2200). PR-155-2009
FDIC Media Contact: LaJuan Williams-Dickerson, (Office) 202-898-3876, Email: lwilliams-dickerson@fdic.gov
Monday, August 31, 2009
Bike Theives Caught Thanks to Alert Neighbor
From Karl Pfrommer:
This week we had an incident in Stoneleigh.
Three juveniles were apprehended as they attempted to steal a bike on Chumleigh Road.
It happened about 7 pm. on Tuesday August 25.
According to BCPD Sgt. Fink, "[I]t was a Fourth Degree Burglary--the bicycle was stolen from a yard--and Officers in the area found three male juveniles in possession of the bike. [The boys were arrested on Hatherleigh Road.] The Officers charged the juveniles and returned the bike[.] [N]one were found in possession of any weapons."
The owner of the bike said, "Fortunately, an alert neighbor called 911 when she observed unusual activity in our driveway."
Please call 911 whenever you see, "unusual activity."
This week we had an incident in Stoneleigh.
Three juveniles were apprehended as they attempted to steal a bike on Chumleigh Road.
It happened about 7 pm. on Tuesday August 25.
According to BCPD Sgt. Fink, "[I]t was a Fourth Degree Burglary--the bicycle was stolen from a yard--and Officers in the area found three male juveniles in possession of the bike. [The boys were arrested on Hatherleigh Road.] The Officers charged the juveniles and returned the bike[.] [N]one were found in possession of any weapons."
The owner of the bike said, "Fortunately, an alert neighbor called 911 when she observed unusual activity in our driveway."
Please call 911 whenever you see, "unusual activity."
Bradford Bank Closed By Regulators - M&T Bank Takes Over
From Bloomberg:
"Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co. of Buffalo, New York, took over the deposits of Bradford Bank, the FDIC said. M&T, whose parent counts billionaire investor Warren Buffett among its biggest shareholders, is buying Bradford’s $383 million of deposits and $452 million in assets. The FDIC is sharing losses on $338 million of assets in the deal, the regulator said.
Bradford is the second Maryland-based bank acquired this year by M&T, which bought Baltimore-based Provident Bankshares Corp. in May. M&T picked up $5.1 billion in deposits and $6.3 billion assets in the Provident deal, according to a company filing. "
Here is the complete article from Bloomberg.
"Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co. of Buffalo, New York, took over the deposits of Bradford Bank, the FDIC said. M&T, whose parent counts billionaire investor Warren Buffett among its biggest shareholders, is buying Bradford’s $383 million of deposits and $452 million in assets. The FDIC is sharing losses on $338 million of assets in the deal, the regulator said.
Bradford is the second Maryland-based bank acquired this year by M&T, which bought Baltimore-based Provident Bankshares Corp. in May. M&T picked up $5.1 billion in deposits and $6.3 billion assets in the Provident deal, according to a company filing. "
Here is the complete article from Bloomberg.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Feet on the Street is ON Tonight!
Feet on the Street, the Friday night block party on Allegheny Avenue between the Towson Circle and Washington Avenue, is on tonight, with the Beach Bums performing.
Feet on the Street runs from 6:00pm to 9:30.
Come out and enjoy a break from the rain!
Feet on the Street runs from 6:00pm to 9:30.
Come out and enjoy a break from the rain!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
BCPD - Towson Precinct Significant Events Report - 8/17/09 to 8/23/09
[No events listed in Rodgers Forge, but please always be aware and call the police if you see any suspicious activity! Ed.]
Baltimore County Police Department
Precinct 06 Weekly Significant Events Report
Significant Events Report for the week of August 17-23, 2009
Section One: Major Crimes - Robberies
(All Commercial, Street Robberies resulting in injuries,
All Robberies related to trends)
08/21/09 ; Time: 0050; Case # 09-233-0080
Armed Robbery
Loch Raven Blvd. and EdgewoodRd. 21234
The suspect approached the victim and implied he had a
gun in his waistband. The suspect went through the
victim’s pockets and took his wallet. The suspect fled on
foot.
M/B, 20’s, 5-10, med. build, black short hair
# # #
08/21/09; Time: 1500; Case # 09-233-1162
Armed Robbery
Fairmount Ave. and Wiinsford Rd. 21204
The suspect exited a vehicle and approached the victim.
The suspect pulled out a knife and held it under the
victim’s arm. The he suspect removed a wallet from the
victim’s pocket and got back into the vehicle, which
drove off.
M/W, 25-35, thin, black short hair
M/W, 25-35, thin build, driving a 2 dr. silver
# # #
08/22/09; Time: 1135; Case # 09-234-0935
Robbery
York Rd. and Bosley Ave. 21286
The suspect approached the victim from behind and
stated, “Pardon Me.” The victim turned around. The
suspect removed an envelope from the victim’s pocket
containing money. The victim had just been to an ATM.
The suspect fled on foot.
M/B, 24-28, 5-9,
medium build, black short hair.
Section Two: Major Crimes – Burglaries
All Commercial, Schools, Residential related to trends,
Burglaries with high dollar value stolen / weapons stolen
08/21/09-08/22/09; Time: 2230-2020; Case # 09-234-1714
1st Degree Burglary
1000 block West Wind Ct. 21204
Unknown suspects entered the residence. The
suspect ransacked the residence and removed jewelry.
Unknown suspect(s)
# # #
08/23/09; Time: 0130; Case # 09-235-0503
Attempted Burglary
600 block Southwick Dr. 21204
The suspect attempted to enter the residence by
pulling open the doors. A lock was broken, but entry
was not gained.
Unknown suspect(s)
# # #
08/17/09; Time: 0045; Case # 09-229-0064
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 block Yakona Rd 21234
Unknown black male suspect threw a brick through the
front door window. Suspect entered and stole Newport
cigarettes.
Unknown black male.
# # #
08/17/09; Time: 0300-0425; Case # 09-229-0248
2nd Degree Burglary
6200 block N. Charles St. 21212
Unknown suspect/s broke front glass door. Suspect/s
entered and stole a small safe w/ cash from under the
front counter and cash from the register.
unknown suspect(s).
# # #
08/21/09; Time: 0301; Case # 09-233-0274
2nd Degree Burglary
6300 block Sherwood Ave. 21239
The suspects pried open the front door to the location.
The suspects entered the store and removed the ATM
machine. The suspects and suspect vehicle were
captured on video.
2 M/B’s, operating a white Ford van
Baltimore County Police Department
Precinct 06 Weekly Significant Events Report
Significant Events Report for the week of August 17-23, 2009
Section One: Major Crimes - Robberies
(All Commercial, Street Robberies resulting in injuries,
All Robberies related to trends)
08/21/09 ; Time: 0050; Case # 09-233-0080
Armed Robbery
Loch Raven Blvd. and EdgewoodRd. 21234
The suspect approached the victim and implied he had a
gun in his waistband. The suspect went through the
victim’s pockets and took his wallet. The suspect fled on
foot.
M/B, 20’s, 5-10, med. build, black short hair
# # #
08/21/09; Time: 1500; Case # 09-233-1162
Armed Robbery
Fairmount Ave. and Wiinsford Rd. 21204
The suspect exited a vehicle and approached the victim.
The suspect pulled out a knife and held it under the
victim’s arm. The he suspect removed a wallet from the
victim’s pocket and got back into the vehicle, which
drove off.
M/W, 25-35, thin, black short hair
M/W, 25-35, thin build, driving a 2 dr. silver
# # #
08/22/09; Time: 1135; Case # 09-234-0935
Robbery
York Rd. and Bosley Ave. 21286
The suspect approached the victim from behind and
stated, “Pardon Me.” The victim turned around. The
suspect removed an envelope from the victim’s pocket
containing money. The victim had just been to an ATM.
The suspect fled on foot.
M/B, 24-28, 5-9,
medium build, black short hair.
Section Two: Major Crimes – Burglaries
All Commercial, Schools, Residential related to trends,
Burglaries with high dollar value stolen / weapons stolen
08/21/09-08/22/09; Time: 2230-2020; Case # 09-234-1714
1st Degree Burglary
1000 block West Wind Ct. 21204
Unknown suspects entered the residence. The
suspect ransacked the residence and removed jewelry.
Unknown suspect(s)
# # #
08/23/09; Time: 0130; Case # 09-235-0503
Attempted Burglary
600 block Southwick Dr. 21204
The suspect attempted to enter the residence by
pulling open the doors. A lock was broken, but entry
was not gained.
Unknown suspect(s)
# # #
08/17/09; Time: 0045; Case # 09-229-0064
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 block Yakona Rd 21234
Unknown black male suspect threw a brick through the
front door window. Suspect entered and stole Newport
cigarettes.
Unknown black male.
# # #
08/17/09; Time: 0300-0425; Case # 09-229-0248
2nd Degree Burglary
6200 block N. Charles St. 21212
Unknown suspect/s broke front glass door. Suspect/s
entered and stole a small safe w/ cash from under the
front counter and cash from the register.
unknown suspect(s).
# # #
08/21/09; Time: 0301; Case # 09-233-0274
2nd Degree Burglary
6300 block Sherwood Ave. 21239
The suspects pried open the front door to the location.
The suspects entered the store and removed the ATM
machine. The suspects and suspect vehicle were
captured on video.
2 M/B’s, operating a white Ford van
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Stopping Junk Mail Solicitations in Rodgers Forge
A neighbor sent this note to Lawrence Swoboda, VP of the community association.
Despite a new County law, junk mail solicitations are still being delivered to houses throughout the community.
The note, at left, has an article from a recent Rodgers Forge newsletter mentioning the new County law atop an unwanted soilciation that was left at the neighbor's house.
The question is how can we stop these unwanted soliciations?
As we research the appropriate steps to follow and who to contact, all comments are welcome.
Perhaps you have experienced this and know how to stop it. If so, please comment.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
BCPD - Two Suspects Sought in Credit Card Crimes
Two Suspects Sought in Credit Card CrimesCounterfeit Credit Card Used to Purchase over $7,000 in Property
Baltimore County, Md. (August 20, 2009) - Baltimore County Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying two women suspects who used a counterfeit credit card to make purchases at several locations on April 28 in Baltimore County, and in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
In early May 2009, detectives say that they were contacted by Chase Bank investigators about two females who were using a counterfeit credit card to make fraudulent purchases. Investigators say that the Baltimore County transactions took place at the following locations:
Wal-Mart located in the 1200-block of Putty Hill Avenue, 21286
3 different stores located in the Towson Town Center, 21286
Giant Food Store located in the 3700-block of Old Court Road, 21208
During the course of the investigation, detectives obtained the images of the suspects taken from a store security camera. The efforts to identify the women have not been successful. The suspects are described as follows:
A light-complected black female in her mid twenties, 5’9” tall, with a medium build and black hair that is weaved.
A medium-complected black female, 5’6” tall, with a medium build and blond shoulder-length hair.
Reward Offered.
Anyone with information about this incident or the suspect’s identity is asked to call Baltimore County Police at 410-307-2020 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7-LOCKUP (1-866-756-2587). To text a message to Metro Crime Stoppers, send to "CRIMES" (274637), then enter the message starting with "MCS." Those contacting Metro Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and might be eligible for a cash reward of up to $4,000.
Click here to see the Baltimore County Police Department's notice.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Public Meeting with the County Planning Board Regarding PUD Procedures
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
THE BALTIMORE COUNTY
PLANNING BOARD
will hold a
PUBLIC HEARING
Thursday, September 3, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.
Room 104, The Jefferson Building
105 W. Chesapeake Avenue
Towson, Maryland, 21204
on
Planned Unit Development (PUD) Procedures
To establish a reasonable and consistent process for the Planning Board to hear, consider, and act upon Planned Unit Developments, authorized by Section 32-4-245 (c )(1), of the Baltimore
County Code, 2003.
For additional information, please contact the Office of Planning, Barbara Weaver at 410-887-3495.
Written comments may be sent to Arnold F. ‘Pat’ Keller, III, Secretary to the Board, Office of
Planning, 105 W. Chesapeake Ave., Suite 101, Towson, MD 21204. Copies of the proposed regulations are available at the same address, on the Baltimore County website (click here), and in the libraries.
Persons needing special accommodations for disabilities should call 410-887-3495, or 711, at
least two days before the hearing.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Towson Times Article on Lanark Road Porch
The Towson Times published an article about the porch on Lanark Road. Here's the Towson Times article.
Angry Neighbors With Paintball Guns Target Speeders...
Although we're working on speedhumps for Dumbarton Road and Heathfield Road, this article shows that it's a problem in many areas. This was an interesting way for the neighbors to address the issue! I saw this article/link on The Drudge Report.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Mark Your Calendars! Towson's Feet on the Street on Fridays!
The Towson Camber of Commerce hosts the Towson's Feet on the Street block parties on Fridays.
From the Towson Chamber's website:
"It is with great pleasure that we bring to you, “Towson’s Feet on the Street”, (Towson’s Block Parties). The Chamber is serious about bringing people into Towson to enjoy everything it has to offer.
The events will be every Friday evening, starting May into October from 6-9:30 pm (roads will be closed 5:30 –10:00) on Allegheny Avenue between York Road and Washington Avenue. Free parking will be available at the lot above TowsonFitness Center for patrons (on the corner of Allegheny & Washington) and the Allegheny surface lots will remain as they are normally.
The Towson Chamber will bring live music, food, children’s activities, beer, wine and FREE parking to our fantastic town. Thanks to our wonderful sponsors, Boordy Vineyard, Bud Lite, Lite FM 101.9, Towson Times and COPT, these events will attract plenty of people into the area and provide our merchants with active Friday nights!
All restaurants and retailers are encouraged to participate in the Towson Block Parties and it may be beneficial for shopkeepers to remain open later on Fridays to take advantage of the “Towson’s Feet on the Street”.
We are pleased to say that many of the restaurants along Allegheny will be serving food outside to accommodate the crowd. Restaurants with liquor licenses are permitted to sell in their designated areas and the Towson Chamber of Commerce will sell beer and wine in order to offset our costs. Patrons of this event will not be allowed to enter the area with outside alcohol and pets are discouraged from coming.
So, plan for Fridays to be busy, fun and filled with happy faces and feet visiting our town! See you then."
All the dates for Feet on the Street have been added to the Rodgers Forge calendar.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Balto. County Police - Significant Events Report
August 17, 2009
BCPD Significant Events Report for the week of August 10-16, 2009
Section One: Major Crimes - Robberies
(All Commercial, Street Robberies resulting in injuries,
All Robberies related to trends)
08/11/09
2050
09-223-1858
Attempted Robbery
8800 blk. Loch Raven Blvd. 21234
The suspects approached the victim. One suspect grabbed the victim while the other suspect attempted to take her purse. After a brief struggle, both suspects fled on foot towards the Ramada Inn. They did not obtain the victim’s purse.
B/M, 14-17, 5-8, thin build
B/M, 14-17, 5-5, medium build
08/12/09
2110
09-244-1847
Armed Robbery
Loch Raven Blvd. and Mussula Rd. 21234
The suspect approached the victim at the bus stop. The suspect displayed a knife and demanded property from the victim. The suspect fled with the victim’s property. A perimeter set up and the suspect was apprehended. The property was recovered and returned to the victim.
M/B arrested
Section Two: Major Crimes – Burglaries
All Commercial, Schools, Residential related to trends,
Burglaries with high dollar value stolen / weapons stolen
08/08/09-08/10/09
1200-0900
09-222-0456
Attempted Burglary
Unit blk. E. Chesapeake Ave. 21286
An unknown suspect placed a table under a side window and pushed the window open. A security bar only allowed the window to open a few inches. Entry was not gained.
Unknown
08/09/09-08/10/09
0000-2040
09-222-1713
Attempted Burglary
400 blk. Murdock Rd. 21212
An unknown suspect attempted to enter the residence by removing the back door window molding. Entry was not gained.
Unknown
08/10/09
1820-2131
09-222-1808
1st Degree Burglary
300 blk. Dumbarton Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect removed the molding from around the glass of a rear door to gain entry into the residence. The suspect removed a watch, jewelry, and a 2007 Honda Pilot.
Unknown
08/10/09-08/11/09
2115-0900
09-223-0510
2nd Degree Burglary
1500 blk. Jeffers Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect entered the snack bar building and removed bottles of water, Gatorade, and beer.
Unknown
08/11/09
1300-1630
09-223-1328
1st Degree Burglary
6000 blk. Lakeview Rd. 21210
An unknown suspect entered the residence through a rear basement door that was left unlocked. The suspect ransacked several rooms in the house, but nothing was stolen or destroyed.
Unknown
08/11/09-08/12/09
2230-0300
09-224-0189
1st Degree Burglary
8200 blk. Loch Raven Blvd. Apt. A 21234
An unknown suspect entered the location through an unlocked kitchen window. Once inside, the suspect removed a laptop computer, digital camera, and a hamper.
Unknown
08/12/09
2100-2130
09-224-1944
1st Degree Burglary
600 blk. Bosley Ave. 21286
An unknown suspect used a rock to break a rear window. The suspect entered the residence and ransacked an office, jewelry box and drawers. The suspect removed a pair of shoes from the living room.
Unknown
08/13/09
0700-2121
09-225-1897
1st Degree Burglary
400 blk. Carolina Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect entered the location through a rear door and ransacked the location and stole miscellaneous jewelry.
Unknown
08/13/09-08/14/09
1730-0230
09-226-2041
1st Degree Burglary
700 blk. Dulaney Valley rd 21204
Unknown suspect/s kicked in front door and destroyed TV and entertainment center
unknown
08/14/09-08/15/09
2245-0845
09-227-0547
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 blk. E. Joppa rd 21234
Unknown suspect/s broke glass side door and entered. Once inside cut metal security gate and stole cash, books of stamps and a vacuum.
unknown
08/16/09
1030-2330
09-228-1846
1st Degree Burglary
8200 blk.Loch Raven blvd 21234
Unknown suspect/s entered through unlocked kitchen window and stole IBM laptop.
unknown
08/17/09
0045
09-229-0064
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 blk. Yakona rd 21234 ( Loch Raven Conv. Store)
Unknown black male suspect threw a brick through the front door window. Suspect entered and stole Newport cigarettes.
Unknown black male
08/17/09
0300-0425
09-229-0248
2nd Degree Burglary
6200 blk. N. Charles st
Unknown suspect/s broke front glass door. Suspect/s entered and stole a small safe w/ $800 from under the front counter and $100 cash from the register.
unknown
BCPD Significant Events Report for the week of August 10-16, 2009
Section One: Major Crimes - Robberies
(All Commercial, Street Robberies resulting in injuries,
All Robberies related to trends)
08/11/09
2050
09-223-1858
Attempted Robbery
8800 blk. Loch Raven Blvd. 21234
The suspects approached the victim. One suspect grabbed the victim while the other suspect attempted to take her purse. After a brief struggle, both suspects fled on foot towards the Ramada Inn. They did not obtain the victim’s purse.
B/M, 14-17, 5-8, thin build
B/M, 14-17, 5-5, medium build
08/12/09
2110
09-244-1847
Armed Robbery
Loch Raven Blvd. and Mussula Rd. 21234
The suspect approached the victim at the bus stop. The suspect displayed a knife and demanded property from the victim. The suspect fled with the victim’s property. A perimeter set up and the suspect was apprehended. The property was recovered and returned to the victim.
M/B arrested
Section Two: Major Crimes – Burglaries
All Commercial, Schools, Residential related to trends,
Burglaries with high dollar value stolen / weapons stolen
08/08/09-08/10/09
1200-0900
09-222-0456
Attempted Burglary
Unit blk. E. Chesapeake Ave. 21286
An unknown suspect placed a table under a side window and pushed the window open. A security bar only allowed the window to open a few inches. Entry was not gained.
Unknown
08/09/09-08/10/09
0000-2040
09-222-1713
Attempted Burglary
400 blk. Murdock Rd. 21212
An unknown suspect attempted to enter the residence by removing the back door window molding. Entry was not gained.
Unknown
08/10/09
1820-2131
09-222-1808
1st Degree Burglary
300 blk. Dumbarton Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect removed the molding from around the glass of a rear door to gain entry into the residence. The suspect removed a watch, jewelry, and a 2007 Honda Pilot.
Unknown
08/10/09-08/11/09
2115-0900
09-223-0510
2nd Degree Burglary
1500 blk. Jeffers Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect entered the snack bar building and removed bottles of water, Gatorade, and beer.
Unknown
08/11/09
1300-1630
09-223-1328
1st Degree Burglary
6000 blk. Lakeview Rd. 21210
An unknown suspect entered the residence through a rear basement door that was left unlocked. The suspect ransacked several rooms in the house, but nothing was stolen or destroyed.
Unknown
08/11/09-08/12/09
2230-0300
09-224-0189
1st Degree Burglary
8200 blk. Loch Raven Blvd. Apt. A 21234
An unknown suspect entered the location through an unlocked kitchen window. Once inside, the suspect removed a laptop computer, digital camera, and a hamper.
Unknown
08/12/09
2100-2130
09-224-1944
1st Degree Burglary
600 blk. Bosley Ave. 21286
An unknown suspect used a rock to break a rear window. The suspect entered the residence and ransacked an office, jewelry box and drawers. The suspect removed a pair of shoes from the living room.
Unknown
08/13/09
0700-2121
09-225-1897
1st Degree Burglary
400 blk. Carolina Rd. 21204
An unknown suspect entered the location through a rear door and ransacked the location and stole miscellaneous jewelry.
Unknown
08/13/09-08/14/09
1730-0230
09-226-2041
1st Degree Burglary
700 blk. Dulaney Valley rd 21204
Unknown suspect/s kicked in front door and destroyed TV and entertainment center
unknown
08/14/09-08/15/09
2245-0845
09-227-0547
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 blk. E. Joppa rd 21234
Unknown suspect/s broke glass side door and entered. Once inside cut metal security gate and stole cash, books of stamps and a vacuum.
unknown
08/16/09
1030-2330
09-228-1846
1st Degree Burglary
8200 blk.Loch Raven blvd 21234
Unknown suspect/s entered through unlocked kitchen window and stole IBM laptop.
unknown
08/17/09
0045
09-229-0064
2nd Degree Burglary
1700 blk. Yakona rd 21234 ( Loch Raven Conv. Store)
Unknown black male suspect threw a brick through the front door window. Suspect entered and stole Newport cigarettes.
Unknown black male
08/17/09
0300-0425
09-229-0248
2nd Degree Burglary
6200 blk. N. Charles st
Unknown suspect/s broke front glass door. Suspect/s entered and stole a small safe w/ $800 from under the front counter and $100 cash from the register.
unknown
Crime Alert - Burglaries in Rodgers Forge
From Karl Pfrommer:
One burglary and one attempted burglary in the old section this week. Both incidents were in the rear of the house. Here's one of the victims own words of advice. "I live in the 400 Blk of Murdock Rd and on Aug 10 between 12:00am and 5:00am someone tried to break into my home through the back door.
They unscrewed the bulb in the motion detector light and then proceeded to remove the molding holding the glass in the back door. I have the original back door that is hardwood with the 6 panes of glass. They did not get in because of the deadbolt on the door. However, I did not lock the back storm door that night. The police were called. I recommend the following:
Lock the storm door and if at l possible leave in the glass windows in the storm doors ,not the screens.
Dead bolt the door twice,( one that uses a key and a second one to use at night that turns from the inside of the door only located near the bottom of the door)
If you have a garage, install a motion detector light high on side of the garage that faces your back door. Leave a back house light on all night."
Last week the basement door was breached in the unit block of Stevenson Lane. The week before there was another burglary via the basement door in the unit block of Dunkirk. The rear basement doors of these houses are particularly vulnerable. The doors have four large windows. When one of these windows is broken or removed it is easy to unlock the door.
The burglar may even attempt to crawl through the window hole. This is especially easy when their are tall fences in the rear yard and/or the basement door is below ground level. Consider installing a heavy wire screen on the inside of the basement door or use some other method to secure the door.
One burglary and one attempted burglary in the old section this week. Both incidents were in the rear of the house. Here's one of the victims own words of advice. "I live in the 400 Blk of Murdock Rd and on Aug 10 between 12:00am and 5:00am someone tried to break into my home through the back door.
They unscrewed the bulb in the motion detector light and then proceeded to remove the molding holding the glass in the back door. I have the original back door that is hardwood with the 6 panes of glass. They did not get in because of the deadbolt on the door. However, I did not lock the back storm door that night. The police were called. I recommend the following:
Lock the storm door and if at l possible leave in the glass windows in the storm doors ,not the screens.
Dead bolt the door twice,( one that uses a key and a second one to use at night that turns from the inside of the door only located near the bottom of the door)
If you have a garage, install a motion detector light high on side of the garage that faces your back door. Leave a back house light on all night."
Last week the basement door was breached in the unit block of Stevenson Lane. The week before there was another burglary via the basement door in the unit block of Dunkirk. The rear basement doors of these houses are particularly vulnerable. The doors have four large windows. When one of these windows is broken or removed it is easy to unlock the door.
The burglar may even attempt to crawl through the window hole. This is especially easy when their are tall fences in the rear yard and/or the basement door is below ground level. Consider installing a heavy wire screen on the inside of the basement door or use some other method to secure the door.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Public Meeting on Speed Cameras - 8/19 at Towson Library
"Good afternoon,
I have been told by Councilman Joe Bartenfelder's office that a public meeting will be held on the County's proposed speed camera legislation on Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. at the Towson Library.
As I talked with constituents, it was clear that few understood this very important state legislation and no one knew how the County was proposing to implement the law. Therefore, I wrote to County Executive Smith and the Council Chair, Joe Bartenfelder, asking for public meetings outside of the regular afternoon Council work session. I got no response so I wrote to the Towson Times. Finally, early last week, I wrote to the entire County Council and it's Chair again. I am very pleased that Councilman Bartenfelder has set a public informational meeting.
I urge you to advise those with whom you work to attend this meeting to learn how this law will work to protect people in school zones and how the County will approach this public safety issue. Also, for your information, the Council Bill is 61-09 and can be read on line at the Council web site.
Feel free to let me know if you have any question.
Steve Lafferty"
[one of our State Delegates]
I have been told by Councilman Joe Bartenfelder's office that a public meeting will be held on the County's proposed speed camera legislation on Wednesday, August 19 at 7 p.m. at the Towson Library.
As I talked with constituents, it was clear that few understood this very important state legislation and no one knew how the County was proposing to implement the law. Therefore, I wrote to County Executive Smith and the Council Chair, Joe Bartenfelder, asking for public meetings outside of the regular afternoon Council work session. I got no response so I wrote to the Towson Times. Finally, early last week, I wrote to the entire County Council and it's Chair again. I am very pleased that Councilman Bartenfelder has set a public informational meeting.
I urge you to advise those with whom you work to attend this meeting to learn how this law will work to protect people in school zones and how the County will approach this public safety issue. Also, for your information, the Council Bill is 61-09 and can be read on line at the Council web site.
Feel free to let me know if you have any question.
Steve Lafferty"
[one of our State Delegates]
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
BCPD - Beware of Phony Alarm System Sales Pitches
Beware of Phony Alarm System Sales PitchesSome Salespeople Steal With A Smile and a Promise
Baltimore County, Md. (August 10, 2009) - Baltimore County Police are warning residents that there are sales representatives selling home alarm systems. The problem is not just a local one, but one the police want to address before more people fall prey to unethical salespeople.
The sales representatives are clean-cut, polite young men as a rule. Two cases reported to the Department had the same pitch. Case one concerns a homeowner who signed a contract with a nationally known security system company and was told the system was “free.” The pitchman said the only cost was a monthly monitoring fee charged by the Baltimore County Police Department. She was told to pay the company the monthly monitoring fee which would then be passed along to the police. The consumer didn’t know that the Baltimore County Police Department does not monitor alarm systems. She was told not to discuss her “special deal” with anyone.
The second case is much like the first with the same free deal. The difference here is when she told the salesperson she didn’t have the money at the time, he put up the $100 in cash to help with the monthly fee. The money he earned in commission more than paid for the $100 he furnished to pay the fee.
Summer is the time when these security people hit the streets representing many well known alarm companies. Not all salespeople misrepresent the alarm companies, but consumers need to know what to do when anyone knocks on their front door selling a product.
Ask to see the representative’s alarm technician license issued by the Maryland State Police.
Nothing is “free.” The old saying “if it sounds too good to be true, then it usually is.” If the salesman tells you this is a limited time only sale, then there is something fishy going on. Get quotes from other alarm companies before you decide.
If you suspect that you or someone you know has been victimized by this type of fraud, call the Maryland Department of State Police-Licensing Division at 410-653-4500, and dial 5, then 0. You may also contact the Maryland Attorney General-Consumer Protection Division at 410-528-8662.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Summer Baseball Pickup Games (for Kids and Adults) and Fall Baseball
Players and Parents -
1 - Summer Baseball Pickup Games for Kids every Monday and Thursday from 6-8pm. Located at the fields on Stevenson Lane behind Rodgers Forge Elem School. This is FREE. The last game is August 27. School begins August 31.
Rules:
- This is for kids from 6yo to 15yo
- These are kid-only games. No adults. The kids pick the teams and make the rules. Whomever shows, plays
- Older players are chosen by an adult to be the captains, who will choose their team, establish field assignments and the - batting order. There are usually 7-10 players per team.
- No coaches - No need to improve - Away from a scheduled, adult-supervised routine.
- This is designed for kids to "make their own decisions, learn how to deal with other kids, and learn how to play with kids of different ages." (Bob Bigelow, Boston Celtic, author of "Just Let the Kids Play")
- Some of these 2-hour games go through only 2 innings, but the kids loved it.
- Bring your bat, glove, ball, water, ice, snack and a love of the game.
- Catchers equipment and batters helments will be provided.
2 - Fall Baseball runs from September 13 thru November 8 (Sunday afternoons) over at Roland Park Baseball League. $25 per player. Registration is now open at www.rolandparkbaseball.com
3 - Adult Pickup Games every Tuesday from 6-8pm at the fields on Stevenson Lane behind Rodgers Forge Elem School. FREE. It doesn't matter if you used to play professionally, or have no athletic ability - it's all for fun. Post-game refreshments are always at Souri's at the circle in Towson - they've come to expect us.
If you have any questions, please email me or call me at 410-828-8650.
Thanks - Pat Foretich
1 - Summer Baseball Pickup Games for Kids every Monday and Thursday from 6-8pm. Located at the fields on Stevenson Lane behind Rodgers Forge Elem School. This is FREE. The last game is August 27. School begins August 31.
Rules:
- This is for kids from 6yo to 15yo
- These are kid-only games. No adults. The kids pick the teams and make the rules. Whomever shows, plays
- Older players are chosen by an adult to be the captains, who will choose their team, establish field assignments and the - batting order. There are usually 7-10 players per team.
- No coaches - No need to improve - Away from a scheduled, adult-supervised routine.
- This is designed for kids to "make their own decisions, learn how to deal with other kids, and learn how to play with kids of different ages." (Bob Bigelow, Boston Celtic, author of "Just Let the Kids Play")
- Some of these 2-hour games go through only 2 innings, but the kids loved it.
- Bring your bat, glove, ball, water, ice, snack and a love of the game.
- Catchers equipment and batters helments will be provided.
2 - Fall Baseball runs from September 13 thru November 8 (Sunday afternoons) over at Roland Park Baseball League. $25 per player. Registration is now open at www.rolandparkbaseball.com
3 - Adult Pickup Games every Tuesday from 6-8pm at the fields on Stevenson Lane behind Rodgers Forge Elem School. FREE. It doesn't matter if you used to play professionally, or have no athletic ability - it's all for fun. Post-game refreshments are always at Souri's at the circle in Towson - they've come to expect us.
If you have any questions, please email me or call me at 410-828-8650.
Thanks - Pat Foretich
Friday, August 7, 2009
Fellow Board Members...
Please take a few minutes to look around the blog.
Several things have been added to the basic template (an updatable calendar where we can add all sorts of events, an email subscription service, etc.).
I encourage you to please play around a little bit: add some comments to different articles, click on an event on the calendar, and be sure to add your email address on the right-hand side--you'll get a once-daily update email if a new post is added. (It's actuallly a very nice feature.)
This well help me tweak the presentation and get used to how this works.
This can turn out to be a great resource for the community in addition to the newsletter and the website.
Thanks.
Several things have been added to the basic template (an updatable calendar where we can add all sorts of events, an email subscription service, etc.).
I encourage you to please play around a little bit: add some comments to different articles, click on an event on the calendar, and be sure to add your email address on the right-hand side--you'll get a once-daily update email if a new post is added. (It's actuallly a very nice feature.)
This well help me tweak the presentation and get used to how this works.
This can turn out to be a great resource for the community in addition to the newsletter and the website.
Thanks.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Is It Time For You To Plant A New Tree?
The members of the RFC, Inc. Greening Committee would like to assist you in the event you would care to consider planting a new tree on your property. Part of what makes Rodgers Forge so attractive is the greenery all around us. The Greening Committee keeps some of our common areas in good shape with clean-up work, improvements and planting. They also promote the proper seasonal planting of trees. To that end, we interviewed Fran Lawrance of Dunkirk Road, chairperson of the committee, and asked her to fill us in.
Fran Lawrance You may have seen Fran and a colleague at the recent Rodgers Forge community picnic where she was handing out brochures about trees and discussing the particulars with people who stopped by to chat.
Why are trees important to us?
Trees provide shade from the heat, help to conserve energy by reducing the need for air-conditioning in the summer, enhance our air and water quality, serve as windbreaks, support bird life and, of course, give us much pleasure in terms of beauty.
What kinds of trees will thrive in Rodgers Forge?
Many types of trees thrive in the Forge, just look around! Maple, oak, sycamore, dogwood, linden, magnolia, redbud, crape myrtle, cherry, holly, spruce, hemlock and others! For trees to thrive they need to be in the right climate and planted in the right place! Two websites provide a lot of information about selecting and planting trees that will do well when planted in our area: The Growing Home Campaign website (www.growinghome.info) and www.trees.maryland.gov .
Do you recommend one kind of tree that you consider better than the others in terms of beauty and utility?
Not really. The bigger trees such as maples, sycamores, oaks, and lindens provide good shade over a broad area and their foliage can be beautiful in the fall. On the other hand, the smaller flowering trees such as cherry, dogwood, and crabapple are gorgeous in the spring. Before planting a new tree, I like to consider the characteristics of the location and go through a check list. Are there wires overhead? Will the root structure cause the sidewalk to buckle? How much space is available for growth and what other trees or plants are nearby? We can then look for a tree that will be an asset for that space, in terms of both beauty and function.
How much do they cost and where can trees be purchased?
Cost partially depends on the age and size of the tree as well as the type and condition. Trees can be purchased from nurseries and garden centers as well as obtained through programs such as the Arbor Day Foundation (www.arborday.org) that provides free trees with membership. Coupons for discounts at local garden centers can be downloaded from the Growing Home Campaign website. As well, sometimes you can find advertised sales.
When is the best time to plant?
The early spring and early fall are the best times to plant.
Can I plant the tree myself?
Yes, you can plant small trees but if you do, consult the websites for their details about checking on utility lines, digging the right size hole, laying the roots down properly, planting, watering, pruning, fertilizing, and mulching. There’s no point in buying an expensive healthy tree, only to have it fail. Larger trees are probably best planted by the professionals and it is often worth the extra cost.
What if I need an old tree removed or some branches that are overlapping the roadway or dead branches cut off?
It’s a good idea to pay close attention to the condition of trees on your property. This includes maintaining the living trees, i.e. trimming for health, beauty, and safety, treating diseases, removing broken and dead branches. Dead branches that overhang houses, cars, and roadways are a safety hazard and have caused damage when they fall in high winds.
Unless the tree is within the County right-of-way, the homeowner needs to take responsibility. If the tree is small, the homeowner can do the work but if the tree is large or diseased, a professional will have the expertise and the equipment to address the problem. There are many good tree companies that frequently work in our area and are familiar with the Forge. If several trees on your street need work, a group of neighbors might consider getting estimates together and perhaps asking for a group rate!
If the tree is within the County right-of-way, there is a possibility that the County will complete the work. Under certain circumstance, the County will remove dead wood, trim, elevate limbs, cut down and remove dead trees, and grind stumps. They are primarily interested in safety issues so they do not treat trees for disease or trim for beauty or health.
Please note, in Rodgers Forge the County right-of-way varies from street to street and sometimes by block. If you have a question about a tree, do take the time to call the County Bureau of Highway’s at 410-887-3560.
Is a county permit of any kind needed?
County permits are needed only for work done on trees within the County right-of-way. There is no charge for the work but there is a work order application charge of $25.
Does the county have any kind of tree giveaway program?
To my knowledge, Baltimore County does not have a program to give away trees. As a part of the Growing Home Campaign, coupons, which can be used at local participating garden centers, can be downloaded or obtained from county libraries. The garden centers are listed. Also the State of Maryland is offering $25 discount coupons for the purchase of native trees costing $50 or more; those coupons and planting tips, are available at www.trees.maryland.gov .
Fran Lawrance You may have seen Fran and a colleague at the recent Rodgers Forge community picnic where she was handing out brochures about trees and discussing the particulars with people who stopped by to chat.
Why are trees important to us?
Trees provide shade from the heat, help to conserve energy by reducing the need for air-conditioning in the summer, enhance our air and water quality, serve as windbreaks, support bird life and, of course, give us much pleasure in terms of beauty.
What kinds of trees will thrive in Rodgers Forge?
Many types of trees thrive in the Forge, just look around! Maple, oak, sycamore, dogwood, linden, magnolia, redbud, crape myrtle, cherry, holly, spruce, hemlock and others! For trees to thrive they need to be in the right climate and planted in the right place! Two websites provide a lot of information about selecting and planting trees that will do well when planted in our area: The Growing Home Campaign website (www.growinghome.info) and www.trees.maryland.gov .
Do you recommend one kind of tree that you consider better than the others in terms of beauty and utility?
Not really. The bigger trees such as maples, sycamores, oaks, and lindens provide good shade over a broad area and their foliage can be beautiful in the fall. On the other hand, the smaller flowering trees such as cherry, dogwood, and crabapple are gorgeous in the spring. Before planting a new tree, I like to consider the characteristics of the location and go through a check list. Are there wires overhead? Will the root structure cause the sidewalk to buckle? How much space is available for growth and what other trees or plants are nearby? We can then look for a tree that will be an asset for that space, in terms of both beauty and function.
How much do they cost and where can trees be purchased?
Cost partially depends on the age and size of the tree as well as the type and condition. Trees can be purchased from nurseries and garden centers as well as obtained through programs such as the Arbor Day Foundation (www.arborday.org) that provides free trees with membership. Coupons for discounts at local garden centers can be downloaded from the Growing Home Campaign website. As well, sometimes you can find advertised sales.
When is the best time to plant?
The early spring and early fall are the best times to plant.
Can I plant the tree myself?
Yes, you can plant small trees but if you do, consult the websites for their details about checking on utility lines, digging the right size hole, laying the roots down properly, planting, watering, pruning, fertilizing, and mulching. There’s no point in buying an expensive healthy tree, only to have it fail. Larger trees are probably best planted by the professionals and it is often worth the extra cost.
What if I need an old tree removed or some branches that are overlapping the roadway or dead branches cut off?
It’s a good idea to pay close attention to the condition of trees on your property. This includes maintaining the living trees, i.e. trimming for health, beauty, and safety, treating diseases, removing broken and dead branches. Dead branches that overhang houses, cars, and roadways are a safety hazard and have caused damage when they fall in high winds.
Unless the tree is within the County right-of-way, the homeowner needs to take responsibility. If the tree is small, the homeowner can do the work but if the tree is large or diseased, a professional will have the expertise and the equipment to address the problem. There are many good tree companies that frequently work in our area and are familiar with the Forge. If several trees on your street need work, a group of neighbors might consider getting estimates together and perhaps asking for a group rate!
If the tree is within the County right-of-way, there is a possibility that the County will complete the work. Under certain circumstance, the County will remove dead wood, trim, elevate limbs, cut down and remove dead trees, and grind stumps. They are primarily interested in safety issues so they do not treat trees for disease or trim for beauty or health.
Please note, in Rodgers Forge the County right-of-way varies from street to street and sometimes by block. If you have a question about a tree, do take the time to call the County Bureau of Highway’s at 410-887-3560.
Is a county permit of any kind needed?
County permits are needed only for work done on trees within the County right-of-way. There is no charge for the work but there is a work order application charge of $25.
Does the county have any kind of tree giveaway program?
To my knowledge, Baltimore County does not have a program to give away trees. As a part of the Growing Home Campaign, coupons, which can be used at local participating garden centers, can be downloaded or obtained from county libraries. The garden centers are listed. Also the State of Maryland is offering $25 discount coupons for the purchase of native trees costing $50 or more; those coupons and planting tips, are available at www.trees.maryland.gov .
More On Rodgers Forge Business In The Works
The County Council recently passed a bill prohibiting the distribution of unsolicited printed or written commercial advertising information to our homes. Such circulars may not be placed specifically on fences, railings, doors, porches, lawns, sidewalks or motor vehicles unless they contain a large notice and a toll-free number to call where future deliveries may be cancelled. It was pointed out that especially the accumulation of such unsolicited materials dirties the streets and sidewalks and identifies temporarily vacant residences as potential targets for burglary, vandalism and other crimes. Newspapers and the like are to be exempt.
Rental housing continues to be a concern especially when it comes to student residents, poorly kept properties, loud or inappropriate noises and activities and other disturbances of the peace. RFC, Inc. External Affairs chairman Don Gerding continues to solicit information on such properties to ensure that they are conforming to County Residential Registration Guidelines. Please call Don at 410-825-0894 to report.
Residents who have noticed some odd colored markings on their sidewalks or streets should know that County Public Works has designated a number of sewer lines in the south end of the Forge for clean out. There is no set schedule but it should not disrupt the on street parking since the work is in a “rolling fashion” in the middle of the road.
The old County Jail at the corner of Towsontown Boulevard and Bosley Avenues is now in a real time effort being transformed into the Towson Swim Center. It is already accepting applications for future memberships. Contact Mike Ertel at 410-296-1757. It is a 5-minute drive from the Forge.
Construction work continues on West Towson Elementary School and the ground preparation has been underway for several weeks as this is written. Our elementary school 4th graders will be attending classes in a second floor wing of classrooms at Dumbarton Middle School to help alleviate the continued overcrowding at Rodgers Forge Elementary School. The 4th graders will thus be segregated from the older middle school population. Projected attendance at the elementary school for the school year is about double the capacity of the building. The new West Towson school is not slated to be available for occupancy until the 2010-2011 academic year. Redistricting by the school board will be decided at a meeting in the fall. Towson Families United has done yeomen’s work on keeping up with problems and changes at the school and these dedicated volunteers have a web site to which you are invited to refer for in depth information at: towsonfamiliesunited.com. One wonders how it was possible for school overcrowding in Baltimore County to become so severe what with a slew of professionals on staff to anticipate such things.
Rental housing continues to be a concern especially when it comes to student residents, poorly kept properties, loud or inappropriate noises and activities and other disturbances of the peace. RFC, Inc. External Affairs chairman Don Gerding continues to solicit information on such properties to ensure that they are conforming to County Residential Registration Guidelines. Please call Don at 410-825-0894 to report.
Residents who have noticed some odd colored markings on their sidewalks or streets should know that County Public Works has designated a number of sewer lines in the south end of the Forge for clean out. There is no set schedule but it should not disrupt the on street parking since the work is in a “rolling fashion” in the middle of the road.
The old County Jail at the corner of Towsontown Boulevard and Bosley Avenues is now in a real time effort being transformed into the Towson Swim Center. It is already accepting applications for future memberships. Contact Mike Ertel at 410-296-1757. It is a 5-minute drive from the Forge.
Construction work continues on West Towson Elementary School and the ground preparation has been underway for several weeks as this is written. Our elementary school 4th graders will be attending classes in a second floor wing of classrooms at Dumbarton Middle School to help alleviate the continued overcrowding at Rodgers Forge Elementary School. The 4th graders will thus be segregated from the older middle school population. Projected attendance at the elementary school for the school year is about double the capacity of the building. The new West Towson school is not slated to be available for occupancy until the 2010-2011 academic year. Redistricting by the school board will be decided at a meeting in the fall. Towson Families United has done yeomen’s work on keeping up with problems and changes at the school and these dedicated volunteers have a web site to which you are invited to refer for in depth information at: towsonfamiliesunited.com. One wonders how it was possible for school overcrowding in Baltimore County to become so severe what with a slew of professionals on staff to anticipate such things.
Annual Meeting Will Feature Home Safety Presentation And Election Of Board Members
The Annual Meeting of the Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. will feature some presentations that should be of interest to Rodgers Forge residents. The meeting will take place in the cafeteria of the Rodgers Forge Elementary School at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, September 9th. The date conflicts with an event at Dumbarton Middle School where the meeting is normally held. All Forge residents are welcome to attend.
The Baltimore County Fire Department, in light of some fires that occurred in Forge homes in June, will present ideas about what to inspect for in terms of possible dangerous situations and also how to prevent hazardous incidents from occurring. Rodgers Forge has, in fact, been chosen to be the first neighborhood to receive the Safety Awareness For Everyone (S.A.F.E.) program just initiated by the County Fire Department. Representatives from County agencies, in addition to making a presentation at the annual meeting, will later conduct a neighborhood sweep where they will knock on doors and talk to residents about their safety concerns.
The annual election of the Board of Governors will take place at the September meeting and all dues paying members of the Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. present may vote for nominees to the Board of Governors. Anyone wishing to run for one of the open spots on the board should contact the Nominating Chairman, Jason Carter, in advance of the annual meeting with a brief resume and what they would like to accomplish if elected. Jason will be pleased to answer questions about board membership and may be contacted by email for details at: Jcarter9@verizon.net. New officers are elected by board members a week after the annual meeting.
An update on the progress of traffic calming improvements and other community safety measures will be presented.
The Baltimore County Fire Department, in light of some fires that occurred in Forge homes in June, will present ideas about what to inspect for in terms of possible dangerous situations and also how to prevent hazardous incidents from occurring. Rodgers Forge has, in fact, been chosen to be the first neighborhood to receive the Safety Awareness For Everyone (S.A.F.E.) program just initiated by the County Fire Department. Representatives from County agencies, in addition to making a presentation at the annual meeting, will later conduct a neighborhood sweep where they will knock on doors and talk to residents about their safety concerns.
The annual election of the Board of Governors will take place at the September meeting and all dues paying members of the Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. present may vote for nominees to the Board of Governors. Anyone wishing to run for one of the open spots on the board should contact the Nominating Chairman, Jason Carter, in advance of the annual meeting with a brief resume and what they would like to accomplish if elected. Jason will be pleased to answer questions about board membership and may be contacted by email for details at: Jcarter9@verizon.net. New officers are elected by board members a week after the annual meeting.
An update on the progress of traffic calming improvements and other community safety measures will be presented.
Architectural Committee Receives Praise
The RFC, Inc.’s Architectural Committee was the recipient of praise from some of our homeowners recently when committee members assisted the homeowners by indicating the proper location for an outside TV reception dish that would otherwise have been installed in violation of Baltimore County Code and subject to fine. In addition, a homeowner was pleased to know the brand name of roofing materials that were recommended by the committee in terms of both the quality of materials and homogeneity with surrounding homes. It is the task of the community association’s Architectural Committee to attempt to uphold community standards in order to maintain and enhance property values and home ownership desirability in Rodgers Forge.
Nobody Asked Me, But...
Can you believe that it was forty years ago (40 years ago!) that we first saw a man step onto our moon? At the time, the event might have been the biggest scientific achievement that occurred during our lifetimes. I recall that it was a source of pride in what man can accomplish and not just in America but for the whole world. Yes, it was part of a silly space race that had the technology of the U. S. up against that of the mighty Soviet Union but I think most of us in the know realized we were going to win that one simply by noting that our spacecraft looked like something out of Star Trek and theirs reminded us, on first glance, of a cement truck. Truly, though, the entire world shared in this triumph of what man can do that had never been done before. Our family especially felt proud in that my father was part of the developmental program. Having retired from the military, he had taken a management position working on the project that produced Apollo cloth, the materials that International Latex of Dover, Delaware developed and constructed into the spacesuits worn by the astronauts. I remember he was so pleased that the suits functioned properly. I recall him telling me that he knew then what his highest purpose in life had been, and this from a man who was a glider pilot on D-Day. I think it was a pride he shared with the tens of thousands of other people who worked for NASA and its contractors when the entire mission worked nearly perfectly. For someone like Dad, who first piloted a bi-plane with a wooden propeller, the advancement from that time to landing men on the moon must have been something that was the ultimate gratification.
That was probably the high point for NASA, as the space station and the shuttle program haven’t quite captured our imagination in the same way. This follow-up has cost us a huge amount of money and the payoff has mostly come from the Hubble Space Telescope providing “fantastic images of deep space” that are really just nice pictures. We’ve sent probes and landers to nearby planets that are uninhabitable and further space exploration outside our solar system just won’t be in the cards until we can conquer travel in multiples of the speed of light (Star Trek’s “warp speed”). Meanwhile, here at home we keep figuring out new, better and faster ways to pollute the home planet into a state of vulnerability to all sorts of nastiness that can be visited upon us by nature.
And, really now, looking back, unless we can all see beyond our own little worlds of desires and wishes for material junk, what was all that moon shot effort and expense in aid of? I think that magnificent achievement had to do with looking at the possibilities that are there for us to live a good life and be good people instead of all the nonsense and foolishness that seems to occupy so much of our little time on this planet. Time to turn off that noisy box, walk outside at night and look upward. That’s when you realize what its all about.
Having said that, it saddens me that, as a nation, we seem to have lost much of our magnificent vision of those days when we seemed capable of just about anything. But look what has happened. We are losing our boys, mostly to roadside bombs, in Afghanistan. Afghanistan! Can anyone tell me why we are there and what we are trying to accomplish? Maybe the Prez should interrupt prime time for that instead of some vague plan for “health care for all” when what he really means is health insurance of some unknown quality and cost for those that do not have it for a variety of reasons. Does anyone believe that this will not cost us taxpayers money? We are supposed to trust our government to do it right. You know, that same government that we hear about with the self-serving “earmarks”, bribes from lobbyists, stacks of money in their freezers at home (How do you not get prosecuted for that?) and a press corps reporting on them with somewhat less veracity it seems than the late, great Uncle Walter, Eric Severeid and John Chancellor did in their day in the big chair.
It is tough to accept but I feel that crew in D.C., regardless of political affiliation, is so far detached from the rest of us that they don’t know how to listen and, worse yet, don’t much care. And, you know what? I truly believe that there are some pretty quick and easy fixes to most of the problems that everyday Americans actually care about. You just have to go do something and not worry about pleasing a party boss, lobbyist or some other moneybag. So, we watch our nation sliding down the chute as the power of the people disappears.
By Jay Dunn, Editor, Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. Newsletter
That was probably the high point for NASA, as the space station and the shuttle program haven’t quite captured our imagination in the same way. This follow-up has cost us a huge amount of money and the payoff has mostly come from the Hubble Space Telescope providing “fantastic images of deep space” that are really just nice pictures. We’ve sent probes and landers to nearby planets that are uninhabitable and further space exploration outside our solar system just won’t be in the cards until we can conquer travel in multiples of the speed of light (Star Trek’s “warp speed”). Meanwhile, here at home we keep figuring out new, better and faster ways to pollute the home planet into a state of vulnerability to all sorts of nastiness that can be visited upon us by nature.
And, really now, looking back, unless we can all see beyond our own little worlds of desires and wishes for material junk, what was all that moon shot effort and expense in aid of? I think that magnificent achievement had to do with looking at the possibilities that are there for us to live a good life and be good people instead of all the nonsense and foolishness that seems to occupy so much of our little time on this planet. Time to turn off that noisy box, walk outside at night and look upward. That’s when you realize what its all about.
Having said that, it saddens me that, as a nation, we seem to have lost much of our magnificent vision of those days when we seemed capable of just about anything. But look what has happened. We are losing our boys, mostly to roadside bombs, in Afghanistan. Afghanistan! Can anyone tell me why we are there and what we are trying to accomplish? Maybe the Prez should interrupt prime time for that instead of some vague plan for “health care for all” when what he really means is health insurance of some unknown quality and cost for those that do not have it for a variety of reasons. Does anyone believe that this will not cost us taxpayers money? We are supposed to trust our government to do it right. You know, that same government that we hear about with the self-serving “earmarks”, bribes from lobbyists, stacks of money in their freezers at home (How do you not get prosecuted for that?) and a press corps reporting on them with somewhat less veracity it seems than the late, great Uncle Walter, Eric Severeid and John Chancellor did in their day in the big chair.
It is tough to accept but I feel that crew in D.C., regardless of political affiliation, is so far detached from the rest of us that they don’t know how to listen and, worse yet, don’t much care. And, you know what? I truly believe that there are some pretty quick and easy fixes to most of the problems that everyday Americans actually care about. You just have to go do something and not worry about pleasing a party boss, lobbyist or some other moneybag. So, we watch our nation sliding down the chute as the power of the people disappears.
By Jay Dunn, Editor, Rodgers Forge Community, Inc. Newsletter
Welcome to Rodgers Forge Community's Official Blog!
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Articles and general information related to the community will be posted, and you can share your thoughts.
Enjoy!
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