Board to hold educational session on covenants; closed to residents

The Rodgers Forge board has announced that its June meeting will be an educational session for board members to discuss the issue of covenants. One question that comes up frequently is about the "old" section of RF where the covenants have language that say they expire in 1960 but that the board maintains are still enforceable. (Here's a past post that goes over RF covenants in detail.)

Speaking at the session will be two board members -- an urban planner and a real estate agent -- and a former board member who is an attorney specializing in commercial litigation and bankruptcy.

The meeting is closed to the community at large; only board members may attend. The board has indicated it has no plans to hold another covenants meeting that would be open to Rodgers Forge residents.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Board to hold educational session on covenants; closed to residents

2012-05-31T11:37:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Latest crime report

Nothing in Rodgers Forge, but lots of scary stuff out there.

This is a summary of recent significant police news in your community. For police news from across the entire county, visit our news archive.

May 28: Attempted Murder, Loch Raven Boulevard and Loch Bend Drive, 21234
At 2:45 a.m., the victim was standing on Loch Raven Boulevard near the Welcome Inn when a vehicle with multiple people approached. The passenger, a black male, fired out the window of the car, striking the victim. The victim was transported to the hospital, and is currently listed in critical but stable condition.

May 26: First Degree Assault – Gun, White Oak Avenue and Oakleigh Road, 21234
At 2:30 p.m., a man pointed a gun at two victims while they sat in a vehicle. The suspect was located nearby and found to be in possession of a weapon. Terrence Cassidy, 22, of the 1600 block of Yakona Road, 21286 was arrested and charged with assault and weapons violations.

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Latest crime report

2012-05-29T22:58:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|

Comments

Now Coveted: A Walkable, Convenient Place

Hey, that's us. Except for the slum part.

New York Times: Walking isn’t just good for you. It has become an indicator of your socioeconomic status.

Enlarge This Image

Josh Cochran

Multimedia

Graphic

A Life of Walking Vs. Driving

Until the 1990s, exclusive suburban homes that were accessible only by car cost more, per square foot, than other kinds of American housing. Now, however, these suburbs have become overbuilt, and housing values have fallen. Today, the most valuable real estate lies in walkable urban locations. Many of these now pricey places were slums just 30 years ago. FULL STORY

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Now Coveted: A Walkable, Convenient Place

2012-05-29T21:46:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Congrats, Loyola

Sun story here. 

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Congrats, Loyola

2012-05-29T12:30:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Pixar movies for Memorial Day weekend

AMC Theatres invites families across the nation to spend time this weekend enjoying the most beloved Disney Pixar Classics! For Memorial Weekend only, participating theatres will be screening four classics: UP, WALL-E, RATATOUILLE, and TOY STORY 3.
This great movie experience is available for a great price – $6 per movie – and features:

·         Trailer for WRECK IT RALPH
·         Behind the Scenes look at BRAVE, which opens on June 23, 2012
·         Introduction from Pixar’s creative guru, John Lasseter
·         A Pixar short feature before each movie

Each movie will play once every day on a rotating schedule.
Please visit www.amctheatres.com/pixar for participating theaters or to buy tickets.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Pixar movies for Memorial Day weekend

2012-05-25T17:55:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Loyola University plays Notre Dame (Indiana) tomorrow

The Loyola Greyhounds are ranked #1 in the country and tomorrow they play Notre Dame University in Boston. Here's an article in the Boston Globe. The game will be on ESPN2.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Loyola University plays Notre Dame (Indiana) tomorrow

2012-05-25T09:54:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Corner Bakery coming to Towson

I don't think I'm quite as excited as this Patch blogger, but it sounds pretty good as far as chains go. Hope it doesn't put any actual corner bakeries out of business.   http://towson.patch.com/blog_posts/corner-bakery-coming-to-goucher-boulevard

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Corner Bakery coming to Towson

2012-05-24T10:19:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Take a little walk with me, darlin, and tell me whom do you love?

Do you know when to use "who" and when to use "whom"? Find out with this Grammar Girl quiz.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Take a little walk with me, darlin, and tell me whom do you love?

2012-05-24T07:44:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

BCPS says no more candy rewards

Baltimore County Public Schools has revised its wellness policy and says treats should no longer be used as rewards in school. Read about it at the Baltimore County Healthy Kids Coalition website.

I think this makes a lot of sense, especially given what the CDC says. (I am also a member of the coalition.)

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

BCPS says no more candy rewards

2012-05-23T12:50:00-04:00

KrisH.

Baltimore County news|childhood issues|health|school issues|

Comments

Hairston addresses issue of larger class sizes

He says the budgets are tight and they need to cut teachers. He did not mention that BCPS has some of the highest administrative costs in the state. He did not address cutting administrative staff or cutting back on other things to save money. Here's the article in Patch.

BCPS exists to teach children. Why they would look to teacher cuts as a first resort is beyond me.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Hairston addresses issue of larger class sizes

2012-05-23T11:57:00-04:00

KrisH.

Baltimore County news|school issues|

Comments

Parents, students encouraged to rally tonight at Baltimore County school board meeting

This is the meeting at which Superintendent Hairston has promised to "correct the record" regarding overcrowded classrooms, which were documented in the Baltimore Sun recently. (Read the Sun story here.)

Here's the message that's on the Facebook page of Citizens for an Accountable Baltimore County School Board:

Students and parents need to SHOW UP WITH SIGNS at tomorrow evening's BOE meeting at Greenwood. Dr [Hairston] will have the bully pulpit to spin his story and try to discredit the Sunpaper reporting. We need to have students and parents pack the room to refute his mis-information campaign. My opinion... is that students should make signs saying how many kids are in "whichever" class and the students have nowhere to sit etc etc. Towson and Carver students protested last year with signs - but now they know what those cuts really look like in their classrooms! Spread the word - have your students spread the word on their Facebook page or groups.

If you believe class size does matter, please consider attending the Board of Education meeting tomorrow, May 22 at 6:30PM at the Greenwood ESS Building on Charles Street. Jean Suda, PTSA Legislative and Advocacy chairperson, will attend and submit her name to make public comment. The more students and parents in the audience the better.

Let your voice be heard by contacting your Maryland state delegate or senator, the County Executive, the President of the Board of Education, or the BCPS Superintendent. A list of contacts appears below.

Thank you for your attention and support!

Contact Information:

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Parents, students encouraged to rally tonight at Baltimore County school board meeting

2012-05-22T09:20:00-04:00

KrisH.

Baltimore County news|school issues|things to do|

Comments

Memorial Day observance

The American Legion Towson Post 22 members, Department of Maryland Commander, veterans, elected officials, Towson Elks, and guests will gather at the Wayside Cross for a ceremony of speeches and observance in remembrance for those who have died in service to our nation.

The Wayside Cross was built by American Legion Towson Post 22 along with the Baltimore County Monument Committee and completed in August 1921. The Post lays a wreath at the monument each Memorial Day and Veterans Day and also maintains the flags at this monument.

When:
Sunday, May 27
1 p.m.

Where:
Wayside Cross
York Road at Shealey Avenue
Towson, MD 21204

Who:                
The American Legion Towson Post 22, Inc
Members of the County Council
Members of the General Assembly
John F. Nicoll Pipe Band
Towson Elks

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Memorial Day observance

2012-05-22T09:17:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Road work on York Road in Towson and Timonium, and I-83 closure

Parts of Interstate 83 will be closed overnight this week. Read details here. And here's news about York Road in Towson and Timonium:

The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) recently began a new $1 million resurfacing project to improve safety and traffic operations along one mile of MD 45 (York Road) between Towsontown Boulevard and Stevenson Lane in Towson.

Crews are upgrading sections of curb, gutter, sidewalk and ramps to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards; cleaning and repairing inlets and drainage pipes; and installing underground and overhead traffic detectors at intersections where needed. Later this summer crews will patch, grind and resurface this section of York Road.

SHA will shift traffic and close a lane along York Road during construction to ensure the safety of travelers and construction crews. Single lane closures and traffic pattern shifts may occur at any time on York Road between Stevenson Lane and Cross Campus Drive. SHA will notify motorists in advance of closures and traffic shifts.

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Road work on York Road in Towson and Timonium, and I-83 closure

2012-05-22T09:09:00-04:00

Kris

Comments

Latest crime report, including assault with a car

May 20: Attempted Burglary, unit block of Dowling Circle, 21234
At 12:27 a.m., a black female, 25 to 30 years old with black braided hair tried to force open the front door of the apartment. Entry was not gained.

May 19: Armed Robbery – Gun, 6000 block of Falls Road, 21209
At 1:25 a.m., a black male wearing a mask entered the Royal Farm Store and pointed a gun at the employee. The suspect fled north on Falls Road on foot after taking money and cigarettes.

May 18: Robbery, York Road and Towsontown Boulevard, 21204
At 2:20 a.m., a man and woman were walking in the area when a suspect took the man’s wallet and fled to a vehicle occupied by three other men. The suspect took the money out of the wallet and threw the wallet back to the victim. Responding officers were able to locate and stop the vehicle. Joshua Caroline, 18, Demetrik Price, 20, Pierre Foster, 19, and Jeremy Hall, 19, were arrested and charged with robbery and assault.

May 16-17: Commercial Burglaries (two businesses), 6300 block of York Road, 21212
Between 11 p.m. on May 16 and 4 a.m. on May 17, an unknown suspect broke the front glass windows of China Wok and Fortunato’s Pizza to enter the business. Money was taken from both businesses.

May 15: First Degree Assault, 6800 block of Collinsdale Road, 21234
At 9:30 p.m., two victims were walking when three suspects approached in a black vehicle and demanded property. The victims ignored the suspects and kept walking. The suspects drove off, and then returned with the vehicle lights off. The suspects struck one of the victims with their car, and then checked the victim’s pockets for property. One of the other suspects tackled the second victim and took an unknown item from the victim’s pants pocket.

May 15: Robbery, 8400 block of Oakleigh Road, 21234
At 7:20 p.m., a man assaulted the victim over a debt. The suspect then stole the victim’s cell phone. Police responded and arrested Timothy Scott Lester, 23, of the 5800 block of Bland Avenue, 21215. He was charged with robbery, assault, and theft.

http://www.baltimorecountymd.gov/Agencies/police/pc06/index.html

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Latest crime report, including assault with a car

2012-05-21T12:37:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|

Comments

Missing Cat- Murphy

Update: The cat is back home.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Missing Cat- Murphy

2012-05-20T19:59:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

BCPS to "correct record" about overcrowded classes

Correction: I mis-read the release from BCPS. This is not a news conference, it is just Superintendent Hairston speaking to the Board of Eduction. Thanks, Dennis, for noting the mistake. 

This should be very interesting.

From the BCPS press release: "Superintendent Dr. Joe A. Hairston will correct the record about misinformation in [the Sun] article and past media accounts about the class size issue. When: Tuesday, May 22, 2012, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Where: Greenwood administrative campus, 6901 Charles Street.

Dr. Hairston’s remarks to the Board of Education will put into context the issue of class size in Baltimore County’s high schools.  He and staff members, including high school principals, will detail the impact that the FY 2012 budget had on class size, the alternatives to actions taken, and the misconceptions about staffing and class size that have been spread by some in the media."

Here's the Sun article that Hairston didn't like: Baltimore County's decision to cut nearly 200 teaching positions last year has had far-reaching consequences in high schools, where hundreds of classes have been dropped from the rolls, leaving many more students packed into classrooms. ...

"A teacher cannot realistically give 30-plus students specialized attention. How long before the bubble bursts? How many students are falling through the cracks? It's a shame that many students may not be reaching their full potentials," said Laura Mullen, a member of the Area Education Advisory Council, a group that gives the school board community input. (full story here)

And a response by area state legislators who point out a school board with elected members could help the situation.

And a parent response in the Sun pointing out conflicting BCPS positions.

And a searchable database with information about class sizes in county high schools is here:
http://data.baltimoresun.com/class-sizes/baltimore-county/

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

BCPS to "correct record" about overcrowded classes

2012-05-18T12:41:00-04:00

KrisH.

school issues|

Comments

Picnic, parade, covenants and other items from the last board meeting

Highlights from the last Rodgers Forge board meeting, May 9, include:

They still have openings for Rodgers Forge residents to walk/bike/ride-in-a-wagon-or stroller in the Towson Fourth of July parade. If you'd like to participate, contact Janice Moore at jmrehoboth(at)gmail.com.

The annual picnic will be June 9 at near the Tot Lot. One board member floated the idea of giving dues-paying residents tickets that would entitle them/their kids to a balloon, free ice cream and a free caricature drawing. They didn't have a quorum so no formal votes were taken but others said they didn't like that idea and that it was a community event and everyone should be treated equally. However, they will have a table set up where you can pay your dues if you haven't already; dues pay for the picnic.

A resident, John Rinehart, asked that the board consider putting up a sign that says Rodgers Forge is a historic district and a community governed by covenants. Board president Jennifer Helfrich said she is planning a larger meeting to discuss covenants soon and that it can be discussed then. Stay tuned.

They also said the budget has been posted on their website. It's on this page.

And Helfrich mentioned she's looking for a new newsletter editor.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Picnic, parade, covenants and other items from the last board meeting

2012-05-18T10:43:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Chestnut Hill yard sale May 19

Saturday 5/19 from 8 am to noon West Towson's Chestnut Hill will be holding its annual yard sale, between W. Joppa & Chestnut Ave on Piccadilly, Trafalgar & Eton Rds.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Chestnut Hill yard sale May 19

2012-05-18T10:06:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Trees going up in Rodgers Forge

From Larry Fogelson, a Forge resident who ran for a board seat in September and didn't make it but who still attends meetings and has taken up this great effort -- along with resident Ryan Cosgrove -- to plant trees in the neighborhood: On this beautiful day, May 17, the crew from Blue Water Baltimore (BWB) arrived to deliver and plant the street trees that were requested by nine residents in the first round of a continuing program to restore and enhance the tree canopy in Rodgers Forge.

Debra Lenik, Darin Crew (with hat), and Walker Cammack dug and shoveled, and planted the six trees for those who requested and paid $50 for that service. Three other residents received trees that they will plant themselves. The trees and gator bags were provided free by BWB through a grant from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, which is funded primarily by a check off on income tax forms and sales of Chesapeake Bay license tags. Residents agreed to water the trees regularly, and report periodically to BWB on the condition of the trees.

Several residents have already expressed interest in receiving trees for the Fall round of planting. Any owners interested in trees in the Fall should email Larry Fogelson at fogie@mindspring.com. One of the requirements to qualify for this program is that the trees must be planted within the county rights-of-way in front of each house. Not every home in Rodgers Forge has a right-of-way; the Tree Rodgers Forge Committee has maps that will help to determine eligibility. The Committee will be looking into other programs that may provide discounts for trees for owners that wish to obtain and plant on other parts of their properties.

Rodgers Forge is grateful to BWB for the support they provided in carrying out this program.

Thanks, Larry and Ryan!

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Trees going up in Rodgers Forge

2012-05-18T08:11:00-04:00

Kris

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Teen girl missing from Parkville

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Teen girl missing from Parkville

2012-05-17T22:16:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Internet security seminars - for parents, teens

FBI Two-Part Briefing on Internet Security -- One for parents (4:00 PM) and one for middle/high school students (5:00 PM) - Towson Presbyterian Church in Thompson Hall Sunday, May 20, 2012 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Special Agent Marc Southland, FBI Baltimore, returns with a new briefing on internet safety, focusing on Social Media, sexting, and how child predators use the tools to target children.

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Internet security seminars - for parents, teens

2012-05-17T12:06:00-04:00

KrisH.

childhood issues|things to do|

Comments

Play yard and crib tents recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and five retailers are announcing a voluntary recall to provide refunds to consumers who own crib tents and play yard tents made by Tots in Mind, Inc.

CPSC is warning parents and caregivers who own these products that infants and toddlers are at risk of serious injury or death due to strangulation and entrapment hazards presented by these products.

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Play yard and crib tents recalled

2012-05-17T07:37:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Shred and e-cycle event this Saturday

West Towson Community Shredding & E-cycling Event

Help save a life by supporting research to find a cure for blood borne cancers. A $20 contribution to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society brings you:

- Secure On-Site Shredding of sensitive but dated paperwork. Staples ok.

- E-cycling of electrical items. Data destruction assured. NO TELEVISIONS.

Bring items and contribution: Saturday May 19th, 1:00 PM till 3:00 PM - Bykota Senior Center Parking lot, 611 Central Ave, Towson, MD

For more info: e-mail Doug at blockdrop@verizon.net

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Shred and e-cycle event this Saturday

2012-05-17T07:30:00-04:00

KrisH.

Comments

Latest crime report

Including two incidents in Rodgers Forge; luckily nothing too serious. Remember to lock up.

May 13: First Degree Burglary, 1700 block of Ryewood Road, 21234
Between 3 and 4:37 p.m., a known suspect was arrested after entering the victim's home through a window. The suspect was inside the victim's home when the victim arrived home. Nothing was taken.

May 12: First Degree Burglary, 1000 block of Dulaney Valley Road, 21286
Between 7 and 7:45 p.m., two black females stole electronics, a backpack and a wallet from the victim's apartment. The victim chased the suspects and was able to retrieve his property. The victim's car was damaged when the suspects fled.

May 11-12: Second Degree Burglary, 100 block of Dunkirk Road, 21212
Between 8 p.m. on May 11 and 9 a.m. on May 12, an unknown suspect entered the victim’s unlocked garage and stole two bicycles.

Click here to read more ...

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Latest crime report

2012-05-15T22:07:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|

Comments

Parking meters changing on York Road in Rodgers Forge-Anneslie

From Councilman Marks: I wanted to let you know that the Baltimore County Department of Public Works has approved changes to the parking meters on the east side of York Road between Dunkirk and Murdock Roads, allowing for a maximum of two hours instead of the current one hour.

Our office was initially notified by the owner of a yoga studio where customers would have to interrupt their sessions to add more money to the meters. A petition was signed by a majority of the businesses between 6701 and 6729 York Road.

The changes make sense and should be helpful to both business owners and customers.   No word on when the meters will be changed, but I suspect it will be within the next few weeks. 

I would like to thank the Department of Public Works for its responsiveness!

County Councilman David Marks
dmarks@baltimorecountymd.gov

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Parking meters changing on York Road in Rodgers Forge-Anneslie

2012-05-15T19:11:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Spring Festival fundraiser for abused kids

Sunday, May 20 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Quarry Lake at Greenspring - Join families in the Baltimore area for a day of fun-filled games, activities, music, and food. $25 per family (includes 20 tickets)

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Spring Festival fundraiser for abused kids

2012-05-15T17:00:00-04:00

Kris

things to do|

Comments

St. Pius carnival starts Friday

Friday, May 18 
6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, May 19 
11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, May 20 
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

GREAT FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
• Rides and Games
• Appearances by your favorite sports mascots
• Collectibles, Used Books
• Delicious Pit Beef, Crab Cakes, Sausage, Baked Goods, Fudge, Ice Cream
• Soft drinks, Beer, Wine and Homemade Lemonade
• Raffles, Silent Auction and More!

BRACELET RIDE TIMES:
Teens: Friday – 10:15 p.m. – 11:15 p.m. $7

Kiddie Rides: Saturday – 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. $7
All Rides: Saturday and Sunday – 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. $30/day

http://stpius10.org/wp/?page_id=1270

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

St. Pius carnival starts Friday

2012-05-15T07:29:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Feet on the Street starts Friday

Towson Chamber of Commerce says: There will be Live Music, Food, and Children’s activities, Prizes, Beer and Wine. The COPT building on the corner of Washington and Allegheny is providing $2 parking (you must enter after 5:00pm from Allegheny Ave.).

Moon bounces will be provided for the children and there will be a limbo contest and hula-a-hoops for the young and the young at heart.

Bring your friends and family, and don’t forget your lawn chairs (no seating will be provided).
Pets and outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited. The Towson Chamber of Commerce will be closing Allegheny Avenue between York Road and Washington Avenue between the hours of 6:00-9:30pm.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Feet on the Street starts Friday

2012-05-14T19:42:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Belvedere Square concerts are back

Enjoy gourmet food and drinks from the restaurants and market at Belvedere Square all while listening to the sounds of summer through some of Baltimore’s hottest bands!  This summer East Belvedere Ave. between the 500 and 600 blocks will be closed for this event from 6 PM to 9 PM.  Please use alternative entrance off Clear Spring from Northern Parkway.


Every Friday, May 18 thru August 31, 2012

Free outdoor concerts featuring:

May 18 - The Crawdaddies, zydeco roots music www.thecrawdaddies.com

May 25 - Sons of Pirates, classic rock

June 1 - The Kelly Bell Band, phat blues http://www.phatblues.com/

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Belvedere Square concerts are back

2012-05-13T12:40:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Reminder: Dumpster Day is this Saturday, May 12

From board member Janine Schofield: Dumpster Day is Saturday, May 12 from 8 a.m. to noon in front of RFES. There will be electronics recycling ($10 fee for televisions), and the Loading Dock will be there for recycling building materials and supplies, and there will be charity trucks to accept household goods.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Reminder: Dumpster Day is this Saturday, May 12

2012-05-10T20:30:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|

Comments

Midstate's Family Fun Day is Saturday

Midstate Community Bank (until recently known as Midstate Federal) is having a Family Fun Day on May 12 from 11 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. -- moon bounce, face painting, and more. 6810 York Road.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Midstate's Family Fun Day is Saturday

2012-05-10T20:17:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

Comments

Scammer alert

From a reader: "We live in a community near Rodgers Forge [Charlesbrooke]. There is a well-dressed man going around our neighborhood claiming to be a resident. He has cited other neighbors and their addresses to bolster his claim. Ultimately, he asks for cash because a towing company won't take his credit card. He has already victimized 2 of our neighbors. I just wanted to pass this along in case he starts up in the Forge."

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Scammer alert

2012-05-10T12:49:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|

Comments

Baby Loves Disco - May 19

Baby Loves Disco will be held on May 19, 2012, from 1-4 pm in the Grand Court of Towson Town Center, level 1. This free event, featuring music, dancing and a variety of fun activities for kids, is part of Baby Loves Disco’s 2012 "We Are Family Tour," celebrating families at more than 100 events in cities across the nation this year. For more information, visit www.babylovesdisco.com

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Baby Loves Disco - May 19

2012-05-10T07:14:00-04:00

Kris

things to do|

Comments

Police warn of bottle bombs

Emails have been going around for years about this kind of thing but apparently it's been happening in this area recently, too. So if you find a weird bottle in your yard, use caution. Here's a story in the Sun.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Police warn of bottle bombs

2012-05-09T10:03:00-04:00

Kris

Comments

Police find stolen property from Rodgers Forge, Stoneleigh

From Towson Police: On Monday 5/7 PC06 Units arrested two juveniles operating a stolen truck in the area of Loch Raven Blvd.  Upon searching the truck the Officers found property that belonged to residents of the Rodgers Forge and Stoneleigh Communities so now what we're asking of you is to let your neighbors know of the recovery and if they were a victim.  Anyone looking to recover property, make an initial report or has additional information that we can use to further investigate please contact Detective Colt Bracken, PC06 IST at 410-887-5508.

Thank You,
Sgt Stephen Fink,
PC06 COT

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Police find stolen property from Rodgers Forge, Stoneleigh

2012-05-08T15:17:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|Rodgers Forge|

Comments

May Mart this Saturday

Roland Park Elementary Middle School is proud to announce its 84th Annual May Mart on Saturday, May 12 from 10 a.m. -- 3p.m. Please join our community fair for a fun-filled day of games, rides, crafts, food, plants, vendors, music, used books, white elephant sale, face painting, and much more! We will also be selling organic vegetables grown by our students from our own garden. 5207 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, 21210.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

May Mart this Saturday

2012-05-08T15:01:00-04:00

Kris

things to do|

Comments

Dumbarton Middle fails to meet Adequate Yearly Progress goals

But before we all freak out it should be noted that it was certain subsets within the school that "fell below" the standard -- mainly kids for whom English is not their first language. Read the report here and read a story about it in Patch.com.

And here's a portion of an interview that was on public radio recently about our love affair with testing and what it means for our children. Bottom line? When we obsess over tests we create kids who are like little calculators spitting out information but who lack critical thinking skills and, most importantly, creativity.

As Diane Ravitch sees it, [No Child Left Behind's] stringent standardized testing requirements have forced schools and teachers to obsess over test scores at the cost of teaching critical thinking and creativity. “The very nature of standardized testing is that new ideas are punished," Ravitch tells Kurt Andersen.

“If we have a generation of kids who can’t think for themselves, our whole country is in trouble,” Ravitch warns. “Nations that have the highest test scores have the lowest creativity scores. The more we raise our test scores, the more we sacrifice creativity.”
http://www.studio360.org/2012/may/04/can-obamas-turnaround-arts-initiative-save-schools/

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Dumbarton Middle fails to meet Adequate Yearly Progress goals

2012-05-08T14:21:00-04:00

KrisH.

Rodgers Forge|school issues|

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Crime report

The latest crime report is below. But first a note from Citizens on Patrol: "There were several vehicles that were broken into early Monday. According to an officer, whom Rob Williams spoke with, at least 6 vehicles, mainly in the 100 block of Regester Avenue, were rummaged through. Rob witnessed added patrols in the neighborhood around 2:30 this morning.

If you believe your vehicle was broken into but though nothing was taken, Rob encourages you to call the Towson Precinct at 410-887-2361 to file a report. And as always, the Rodgers Forge Citizens On Patrol reminds residents about these three crime prevention tips: Lights On Lock Up Look Out. For more information about the Rodgers Forge C.O.P., go to www.rfcop.com."

From the Towson Police:
May 5: Second Degree Burglary, 6300 block of Mossway Road, 21212
Between 7:30 and 10:30 p.m., an unknown suspect entered a locked shed and stole a lawn mower.

May 5: Fourth Degree Burglary/Grand Theft Motor Scooter, 8300 block of Ridgely Oak Road, 21234
Between 7:30 and 8 a.m., a black male in his 20s removed a scooter from the victim’s fenced in back yard.

May 5: Kidnapping/Armed Robbery, Pennsylvania Avenue and York Road, 21204
At 2:15 a.m., a man reported that two suspects approached him and one displayed a knife. They demanded money, and the victim gave them all his money. They forced him to walk to a nearby ATM at Allegheny and Washington Avenue, and withdraw additional money. The suspects fled the area on foot. The first suspect is described as a black male, 20 to 25 years old, 6’ tall, with a muscular build, and medium/dark skin. The second suspect is described as a black male, 20 to 25 years old, 6’3” tall, with a muscular build and medium/dark skin.

Click here to read more ...

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Crime report

2012-05-08T13:25:00-04:00

KrisH.

crime|

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Michael Phelps on "60 Minutes"

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Michael Phelps on "60 Minutes"

2012-05-08T10:21:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Govans Spring Fest is Saturday

May 12, featuring live music, a flea market, and craft and bake sale. There will be bedding plants and hanging baskets as well as the opportunity for children to make their mother a Mother’s Day gift. Details here.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Govans Spring Fest is Saturday

2012-05-08T09:38:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

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Lots of Loyola lacrosse this weekend!

The Loyola University Maryland men's and women's lacrosse teams have NCAA tournament playoff games at home this weekend. The men are the nation's #1 overall seed and play Canisius on Saturday, May 12 at 5 p.m. at the Ridley Athletic Complex. The women are the nation's #6 overall seed and play Pennsylvania on Sunday, May 13 at 1 p.m. at the Ridley Athletic Complex. More information, including how to buy tickets, is available here:
http://www.loyolagreyhounds.com/sports/m-lacros/archive/locl-lacros-12-ncaa-tournament.html

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Lots of Loyola lacrosse this weekend!

2012-05-07T16:05:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

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10 Things Your Commencement Speaker Won't Tell You

From the Wall Street Journal:

Class of 2012, I became sick of commencement speeches at about your age. My first job out of college was writing speeches for the governor of Maine. Every spring, I would offer extraordinary tidbits of wisdom to 22-year-olds—which was quite a feat given that I was 23 at the time. In the decades since, I've spent most of my career teaching economics and public policy. In particular, I've studied happiness and well-being, about which we now know a great deal. And I've found that the saccharine and over-optimistic words of the typical commencement address hold few of the lessons young people really need to hear about what lies ahead. Here, then, is what I wish someone had told the Class of 1988. Click here to read.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

10 Things Your Commencement Speaker Won't Tell You

2012-05-07T13:05:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Bike to School Day - Wednesday, May 9

And other bike-related news, including road blocks from BCPS:

Wednesday, May 9th is the first annual National Bike to School Day. The Rodgers Forge Safe Routes to School Committee is organizing a group bicycle ride for RFES kids accompanied by their parents to and from school that day.  We will assemble and start at the intersection of Overbrook Road and Pinehurst Road at 8:30 AM. ...

... On Tuesday, May 8th, Bike Maryland will be conducting their Bike-Minded Training Program at RFES for 3-5th graders. ...

[Additionally, the Safe Routes to School Committee won a grant for a bike rack but it may never be installed because of BCPS requirements.]

Despite great support from RFES staff, we have run into an unexpected issue with BCPS, which is not allowing the bike rack to be installed unless it is mounted on a concrete pad. Such a pad does not exist and a new one would have to be installed by one of their approved contractors. The school received a quote of $8,214, mostly for the installation of the concrete pad. BCPS representatives have told the school that they do not have funds available for the installation. So as of right now, we are in the unfortunate position of not being able to install the rack so it will be stored inside the school indefinitely until this issue is resolved.

We had expected to be able to place the freestanding rack (which weighs over 100 lbs.) on a landscaped mulch bed, as is common practice at many schools around the country. To alleviate the BCPS concern about liability and safety, we offered to use community labor and donated materials to pour footers to anchor the rack into the ground at its corners instead of going through the expense and undesirable environmentally unfriendly concrete pad, but BCPS Facilities still said no to that without explanation. So, we are hoping that BCPS will reconsider their decision and allow some flexibility about the installation. ...

Read details on all of the above here:
http://www.walkablerodgersforge.blogspot.com/2012/05/bike-rodgers-forge.html

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Bike to School Day - Wednesday, May 9

2012-05-06T19:30:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Ciclovia is today

May 5: Car-free biking from Roland Park to Druid Hill. Family fun. 

http://www.rolandpark.org/Ciclovia.html

(Short and sweet from my phone.)

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Ciclovia is today

2012-05-05T09:43:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Rodgers Forge picnic will be June 9 at Tot Lot

From board member Janine Schofield: "The RFCA picnic this year will be at the intersection above the Tot Lot, instead of behind the school. We will have: moon bounces, music, hot sandwiches, ice cream, balloons, games, caricatures, and pony rides." 

That's the intersection of Blenheim and Hopkins, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Remember, that's the Tot Lot, not behind the school as in years past. 

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Rodgers Forge picnic will be June 9 at Tot Lot

2012-05-04T08:01:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Gaywood yard sale this Saturday

GAYWOOD COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Saturday, May 5 (Rain or Shine)
8am-1pm
200 blks Gaywood & Blenheim Roads and 6400 blk Blenheim Road
For the most current info, visit www.gaywoodonline.com

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Gaywood yard sale this Saturday

2012-05-03T10:11:00-04:00

KrisH.

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Dumpster Day is May 12

From board member Janine Schofield: Dumpster Day is Saturday, May 12 from 8 a.m. to noon in front of RFES. There will be electronics recycling ($10 fee for televisions), and the Loading Dock will be there for recycling building materials and supplies, and there will be charity trucks to accept household goods.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Dumpster Day is May 12

2012-05-03T08:05:00-04:00

KrisH.

things to do|

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Cockeysville gets some Flavor

If a mountain of sugar on top of a mountain of fat is your idea of a good time, you might want to check out a new "cupcakery" that just opened in Cockeysville. (It's located on York Road, in a strip mall across from another strip mall, opposite the super-sized Walmart.)

The shop, called Flavor, is the belly-child of a past season winner of the reality show "Cupcake Wars," and it's located near my son's karate studio. We'd been watching the construction with interest as we waited for it to open.  It's a pretty shop, looking like the love child of Tiffany's and a wedding invitation. The walls are a soothing blue, and everything inside is swirls and curlicues. (I suspect male customers are asked to check their testosterone at the door.)

I can't give it much of a food review because I did not, unfortunately, get to eat 15 cupcakes the day I visited but a mere one. That one was "salted caramel," with said frosting on top of a dense chocolatey base. I wouldn't say the flavors struck me as particularly artful -- no lavender vanilla or lime coriander, for example. On Day 2 of operation, the shop featured classic vanilla, chocolate peanut butter, lemon strawberry, and a few other choices. We stopped in at what is apparently Happy Hour, when any of the remaining flavors of the day are marked down to $2. (Regular price is $2.50, and I thought even that was a good deal. As a cupcake connoisseur, I've noticed that these little bombs are generally pretty pricey.)

Because we couldn't wait till after dinner to consume our purchase, my son and I also got a tiny truffle to share. I must say, it was out of this world! It was called something silly like "Funfetti" and looked like a ball dipped in chocolate and rolled in sprinkles. I don't even like sprinkles, but this little beauty left me wanting more. We go to karate twice a week. Two cupcakes a week, 52 weeks a year. I may be super-sized in a while.

Check it out at http://flavorcupcakery.com/.

What do you think? Post or read comments here:

Cockeysville gets some Flavor

2012-05-02T08:18:00-04:00

KrisH.

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When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie

Space.com says: Skywatchers take note: The biggest full moon of the year is due to arrive this weekend. The moon will officially become full Saturday (May 5) at 11:35 p.m. EDT. And because this month's full moon coincides with the moon's perigee — its closest approach to Earth — it will also be the year's biggest. More info here.

And now that I have that song in my head I am reminded of this: 

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When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie

2012-05-01T22:00:00-04:00

KrisH.

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