Kevin Utz Resume Elect Kevin for Mayor City of Westminster Md

Kevin's Utz Resume' Elect Kevin for Mayor City of Westminster, Md

Elect KEVIN UTZ for Westminster, Md MAYOR (City of Westminster, Md. 21157 21158)

11/14/2008: Kevin Utz KEVIN R. UTZ
352 Doral Court∙ Westminster, MD 21158 ∙
(410)848-6999 or (410)984-8204 ∙

Kevin@teamutz.com

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Accomplished community leader with excellent consensus building skills. Proven ability to perform well in multi-faceted setting, leading disparate groups to accomplish common goals. Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills. A seasoned professional with extensive "all hazards" experience in preparedness, prevention, response and recovery. A natural leader with proven abilities in local community issues, state wide law enforcement, fire suppression, emergency medical services and emergency management.

ACHIEVEMENTS

4 years of local legislativeØ experience as an elected Councilman Westminster, Maryland

28 years of lawØ enforcement experience covering all aspects of criminal justice. Uniformed road patrol, criminal investigation of misdemeanor and felony crimes, response coordination to large scale emergencies, resources management and dispatch responsibilities, aerial law enforcement and medical evacuation, community policing and hostage barricade situations.

36 year veteran and Life memberØ of the Westminster Volunteer Fire Department rising to Chief responsible for a $1.5 million operating budget providing fire and emergency medical services to over 33,000 people.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

City of Westminster Maryland (2004 to Present)

Councilman

• Elected as Councilman in 2004 to uphold the laws of the City, State and Nation and to legislate for residents of Westminster with a total budget of over $44,000,000.

• Chair, Public Safety Committee, Implemented strategy for the creation of continuity of operations plans for all city agencies.

• Provide leadership and established interoperability between all response agencies in the City.

• Co-Chair for the Council of Governments leading the state and county efforts to establish memorandum of understanding between governments to work as a unified force in the event of a catastrophic event.

• Representative to the Maryland Municipal League – Legislative and Communications Committee

• Member of the Carroll County Emergency Planning Group charged with the responsibility to discuss, implement emergency response, planning and training for all agencies across the whole spectrum of the County Government. This group includes government and non-profit volunteer assistance organizations.

• Appointed by Carroll County Commissioners to the Carroll County Regional Airport Technical Advisory Master Plan and worked to assure emergency management issues were being recognized.

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Engineering Assistant 2008 – Present
National Security Technology Department – Homeland Security – Planning, Preparedness & Response

• Provide subject matter expert and technical consultation in the field of public safety and emergency services.

Fire Safety Officer-Lieutenant 2003-2008
Direct the operation and administration of the fire department.
• Respond to structural and vehicle fires, emergency rescue situations, and hazardous chemical spills. Drive or accompany emergency vehicles on call.
• Operate appropriate equipment to suppress fires, assist rescue, or provide emergency medical treatment.
• Inspect Laboratory buildings for potentially hazardous conditions and compliance to code.
• Operate, test and maintain all fire and emergency equipment.
• Teach or assist with fire department sponsored training classes, and act as resource to all Laboratory staff on fire and safety issues and inquires.

MARYLAND STATE POLICE (1975 – 2003)
Shift leader/Supervisor Westminster Barrack, Carroll County Maryland
• Managed, directed, and coordinated uniformed road patrol personnel responsible for law enforcement services for Carroll County Maryland.
• Established command and control of large scale emergencies coordinating the emergency response of fire service personnel and acting as liaison officer for law enforcement investigators.
• Led a team of eight criminal investigators to successfully investigate and close major crimes including murders, armed robberies and multi-jurisdictional burglaries
• Coordinated investigative services with Federal law enforcement agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, The United States Secret Service and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
• Analyzed criminal investigation reports to develop operational intelligence to determine trends, and "mode of operations" in county wide multiple case investigations.
• Provided on scene direction and control of hostage barricade incidents.
• Performed community policing techniques by providing a communications link between the State Police and the community. Conducted security surveys, crime prevention activities, and investigated traffic complaints considered to be a community hazard.

Flight Paramedic, Aviation Command
• Provided managerial oversight to the Aviation Command Training Section and improved medical continuing education for 54 flight paramedics by developing enhanced standards and contracting physicians to provide professional-level medical training.
• Established, staffed and managed the flight dispatch center (SYSCOM) responsible for the appropriate use of eight twin engine instrument flight rule equipped helicopters, providing full medical evacuation, search and rescue and law enforcement services to the State.
• Drafted policy and established contingency plans for the flight dispatch center's transition through the Y2K event.
• Subject matter expert on the procurement of a $30 million twin engine, multi-functional helicopter fleet acquisition, replacing aging medevac helicopters.
• Functioned as a Flight Paramedic providing emergency medical advanced life support and rescue capabilities in a state wide helicopter medevac program.

Civilian Police Communications Operator
• Five years experience in a full service police installation taking 911 calls for emergency and routine law enforcement services.
• Experience in coordinating law enforcement response with allied police agencies.
• Experience with law enforcement data resources such as the Criminal Justice information System; the Maryland Information Law Enforcement System and the National Crime Information Center.

Westminster Volunteer Fire Department (1975 – Present)
Fire Lieutenant

• Former Chief of the Department responsible for the fire suppression, emergency medical care and rescue services to 33,000 residents of the City of Westminster. Voluntary reduction in rank to assume duties as Westminster City Councilman.
• Provided leadership and accountability for 125 personnel (paid and volunteer) utilizing 12 emergency response vehicles housed in a 29,600 square foot facility.
• Coordinated fiscal oversight with administrative officers for the $1.5 million operating budget.
• Provided command and control authority on all incidents involving fire and rescue services in the City.
• Active member of the Carroll County Emergency Services Association Operations Committee; responsible for establishing county wide policy and procedures for response and recovery from emergencies. Providing leadership and strategic planning for the future of fire suppression, emergency medical services and rescue capabilities for the county.
• Represented Carroll County to the Metropolitan Chiefs Association and was instrumental in obtaining Urban Area Security Initiative funding for General Staff and Command training.
• Joined the Carroll County Elder Health Working Group by invitation from the group leader to provide an overview of the ongoing needs of the elderly community as it related to the emergency fire and EMS system in Carroll County and provided invaluable resource information for publication to the elderly community.
• Identified high profile Critical Infrastructure/Key Assets and established real time communications link with 911 Center and first responding fire and police units. Currently Carroll Hospital Center, McDaniel College, Carroll Community College and Carroll Lutheran Village have communication capabilities with incoming units.
• Implemented a coordinated response plan for all hazards at the Carroll County Regional Airport working directly with State and Local Emergency Managers and County Commissioners.
• Participated in annual terrorism related emergency response exercises for county wide response to WMD events.

EDUCATION

2008 UMUC
Criminal Justice/Homeland Security
1997 Essex Community College
EMT – Paramedic Certificate
1996 Saint Cloud State University
Driver Education and Safety Credits.
1981 Catonsville Community College
Criminal Justice study – 30 credits.
1981 Maryland State Police Academy
Maryland State Police Trooper.
1975 Westminster High School
High school diploma.

CERTIFICATIONS
University of Maryland Fire Rescue Institute
University of Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Systems Services
United States Fire Administration
National Fire Academy

Certified Fire Officer I and II
Certified Fire Instructor I
Certified Firefighter III
Hazmat Technician
Rescue Technician Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic (1982 - 2001)
Emergency Medical Technician – Basic
Staff and Command Leadership courses
Incident Command
Introduction to Command and General Staff
Command and General Staff Functions in the Incident
Command and General Staff - Incident Management Team

Awards
• Superintendent's Commendation in 2003, Westminster Barrack for providing outstanding leadership and superior managerial performance as the Criminal Investigation Division supervisor.
• Governor's Citation 2003 for 28 years of outstanding service to the citizens of Maryland
• Superintendent's Commendation in 2003 for 28 years of outstanding performance.
• Superintendent's Commendations for outstanding performance in criminal investigations in 2000
• Awarded Westminster Volunteer Fire Company's 2000 Fire Fighter of the Year for exemplary department and community leadership.
• Qualified as an expert witness, Carroll County Circuit Court, in the kinetics of injury involving motor vehicle collisions in 1998.
• Letter of Recognition for outstanding performance from Superintendent 1994.
• Letter of Recognition for exemplary performance from the Carroll County State's Attorney in 1983.
• Received citizen letters of recognition for commendable acts of kindness and compassion

Affiliations

Maryland State Troopers Association Lodge 20
Maryland State Police Alumni Association
Maryland Fireman's Association
Maryland Fire Chiefs Association
Carroll County Emergency Services Association
Business Networking International
Maryland Municipal League
National Realtors Association
Carroll County Association of Realtors
Realtors Association of York and Adams County

http://kevinutzformayor.com/cgi-bin/p/awtp-custom.cgi?d=kevin-utz-for-westminster-mayor&page=5013

20090114 Kevin Utz Resume Elect Kevin for Mayor City of Westminster Md

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Kevin Utz for Westminster Mayor - News Release January 10, 2009

Kevin Utz for Westminster Mayor - News Release January 10, 2009

January 10, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Councilman Kevin R. Utz
(410) 984-8204

WESTMINSTER CITY COUNCILMAN UTZ DECLARES CANDIDACY FOR MAYOR

Westminster City Councilman Kevin Utz announces his candidacy for Mayor of Westminster citing his experience and ability to lead the City of Westminster during these challenging economic times.

"I want to see this city meet the expectations that we all have for it," Utz stated. "America has never been proven by cities of gold, but by citizens of character." Utz believes the strongest asset the City of Westminster has is the residents, and that he is the right man with the right experience to continue revitalization efforts begun over the past four years which strengthens the City's economic base. Utz will be committed to the continued revitalization of downtown and producing additional interested industry to the Airpark Business Center that is essential to keeping the tax rates affordable.

Kevin Utz is completing his first term as a city councilman, and serves as the Chairman of the City's Public Safety Committee. He is a member of the Maryland Municipal League's Communication's Committee and is a former member of the Legislative Committee. He is a local businessman, a retired Maryland State Trooper where he earned numerous citations and recognitions, and is the former Chief of the Westminster Fire Department, and a life-long community member.

Utz stated, "It is time to get Westminster moving." The City has made tremendous improvements over the past four years in public safety, public works, infrastructure improvements and general government operations. "With the current economic climate we have to watch how we spend every penny of every tax dollar, but we also cannot turn back the clock on the improvements we have made."

Over the past four years Councilman Utz is pleased to have been a part of a successful team that has lead and made vast improvements to the quality of life for the residents of Westminster. Some of these successes have included the modification of a new water treatment plant ensuring a healthy and safe water supply, as well as saving the taxpayers more than $96,000 per year; and the adoption of a current budget that reduced revenues by over 8%; additionally, the staff of the sewer treatment center just introduced a cost saving measure in the operations of the plant that will save the city approximately $99,000 yearly. Utz strongly commended the dedicated City employees for their incentives for cost reduction ideas.

Kevin Utz has also provided leadership in setting goals to reduce expenses for Westminster Government to meet the stiff economic challenges being faced at all levels of government. Some of these goals consist of a 10% reduction in fuel consumption, 10% reduction in energy costs, a 15% reduction in the consumption of office supplies and a program to increase Westminster's recycling rate.

As a local businessman Kevin Utz knows the challenges in meeting a payroll and as a councilman knows the importance of providing governmental services on a budget.

Kevin Utz will focus on economic development for Westminster and to continue his commitment to public safety if elected as Mayor of Westminster.

Kevin Utz will campaign on a platform of Taking Action, Getting Results!

The election for Mayor is Monday, May 11, 2009.

20090110 Kevin Utz for Mayor news release

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

This week in The Tentacle for Wednesday January 14 2009

This week in The Tentacle for Wednesday January 14 2009

Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Barack Rhymes With Tupac
Kevin E. Dayhoff
Noticeable, yet relatively underreported in the scandal-filled rhetoric that passes for meaningful political commentary these days, is the passing of an historic era that will occur when President George W. Bush takes off in the presidential helicopter after President-elect Barack Obama takes the oath of office next week.


From The Desk of the Publisher:
John W. Ashbury
Tom McLaughlin, whose column normally appears on The Tentacle every Wednesday, has extended his travels into the Internet void known as the interior of The Far East. So, for the present, his wi-fi connection has been disabled. However, we can expect several fascinating pieces about the wilds of interior Borneo – and what the people he encounters think about the “West” – when he returns to civilization.


Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Celebrate and Enjoy Next Week
Roy Meachum
It's easy to remember my first day on The Washington Post. It was January 20, 1953. Ike's first Inauguration found me as the Post copy boy assigned to carry the paper's chief photographer Arthur Ellis' camera equipment; news photogs still toted around Speed Graphics. I loved being an insider in the big event.


Missed Opportunities? Perhaps!
Farrell Keough
If you wake up tomorrow and go out to warm up your car before leaving for work – you could be facing a $60 fine and one point on your driving record. This is yet another sign of not actually thinking through an idea, and what unintended consequences are.


Monday, January 12, 2009
General Assembly Journal 2009 – Volume 2
Richard B. Weldon Jr.
You stand at the base of the impressive marble steps and gaze up at the Georgian-era brick edifice to state governance laid out before you. This building, the Maryland State House, has served as the home of the state legislature since 1772.


The Benefits of Bottoming Out
Steven R. Berryman
Not all progress is linear in nature. As in mountain climbing, sometimes one has to travel down to get up. A glacial valley can lead to a better summit trail.


Friday, January 9, 2009
Statue for George Wenschhof
Roy Meachum
Frederick and its citizens should erect a new statue on the City Hall lawn. George Wenschhof earned it.


Bumper Stickers Say It All
Joe Charlebois
In a recent survey (unofficial) of vehicles that travel the highways and byways from Washington to Pittsburgh over the past few months, it was noted that 99% of vehicles with a Democrat or left leaning bumper sticker did not have a United States flag flanking it with pride. That is, they did not have the United States flag emblazoned upon their tailgate, bumper or rear window.


Thursday, January 8, 2009
The Matt Millens of Our Economy
Tony Soltero
The Detroit Lions just set a new standard for futility in the NFL, having just wrapped up the first winless season by a team since the league went to a 16-game schedule 30 years ago.


New Year Wisdom
Patricia A. Kelly
It’s a New Year again. For me, that’s always time to reflect. There is so much wisdom in the world, and so much idiocy. This time, at the beginning, I’d like to focus on the wisdom.


Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Pallywood – When Pictures Lie
Kevin E. Dayhoff
After Hamas, the terrorist organization that has controlled the Gaza Strip since June 2007, unilaterally broke a cease-fire on December 19 and resumed shelling southern Israel, Israeli warplanes sprang to Israel’s defense December 27 by attacking Hamas throughout Gaza. Hamas responded immediately with “Pallywood.”


Land Below The Wind
Tom McLaughlin
Santubong, Borneo – The Israeli incursion into Gaza has been met with indifference here in this Moslem land. The news has been buried in the second sections or on pages 14-15 in The Borneo Post, the local English language daily.


Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Kingdom of Jerusalem Redux
Roy Meachum
Once there was a Christian Kingdom of Jerusalem. The men who founded it wore a huge cross from their shoulders down to their knees. Many did not always do Christian things. They judged the natives as infidels. They killed many. Random cruelties were allowable on those worthless. That was anybody who did not bow to the cross. They moved right in.


Dumbing Down Mathematics – Part 1
Nick Diaz
Since the 1980's, there have been substantial efforts nation wide to weaken mathematics education in America, and, unfortunately, these efforts have largely been successful.


Monday, January 5, 2009
This Shakeout Year
Steven R. Berryman
There is really nothing overtly negative about encountering an economic shakeout period such as the one we have entered. In fact, what we will discover this New Year is that long-term national prosperity for America herself depends on a boom and bust cycle.

20090114 This week in The Tentacle for Wednesday January 14 2009

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

The B*tch Went Nuts - Ben Folds

The B*tch Went Nuts - Ben Folds

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vV8BpuTfkAs

January 14, 2009

Hat Tip: Andrew Breitbart

OMG! I cranked it up to eleven.



20090114 The B*tch Wents Nuts Ben Folds

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

A connection of Biblical proportions and a few presidential pet projects

A connection of Biblical proportions and a few presidential pet projects

EAGLE ARCHIVE By Kevin Dayhoff Posted on www.explorecarroll.com 1/09/09

I'm excited about the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. It is quite a testimony to our great country to have overcome the yoke of history to see an African-American take a turn in the Oval Office.

I'm particularly curious about the Bible that Mr. Obama has decided to use for his swearing-in ceremony.

According to the New York Times politics blog, The Caucus, Obama "will be sworn into office with the same Bible that Abraham Lincoln used for his first inauguration in 1861."

The "move further extends the parallels that Mr. Obama has drawn with Lincoln since he announced his candidacy for president in February 2007 in Springfield, Ill."

I've been curious ever since I first became aware of Obama's preoccupation with President Abraham Lincoln. Of course, who would not want history to reflect upon one's term of office as well as that of President Lincoln?

However, students of presidential history are aware that of all presidents, Lincoln may have had some of the most difficult years in the White House.

His entire tenure was marked with incredible national challenge and personal tragedy. While Lincoln was in office, he may have had one of the worst approval ratings in history.

In David Elton Trueblood's masterful 1973 portrait of Lincoln, "Abraham Lincoln: Theologian of American Anguish," the low esteem in which he was judged was driven home immediately in chapter one:

"In an editorial The Baltimore Sun said, 'Had we any respect for Mr. Lincoln, official or personal, as a man, or as President-elect of the United States, his career and speeches on his way to the seat of government would have cruelly impaired it.'"

Carl Sandburg's encyclopedic history of President Lincoln calls to our attention that right before Lincoln's renomination for election for his second term, the New York Herald said he was "a joke incarnated, his election a very sorry joke, and the idea that such a man as he should be the President of such a country as this a very ridiculous joke."

Ay caramba. This is but a brief glimpse of the scorn heaped upon President Lincoln while he was in office.

Nevertheless, when history had time to reflect upon Lincoln's accomplishments, it was determined that he was one of our greatest presidents.

Go figure.

I hope that history shines as kindly on President Obama as it has on President Lincoln. I pray for his success.

Read the entire column here: A connection of Biblical proportions and a few presidential pet projects

20090109 SCE A connection of Biblical proportions presidential pets sceked

http://explorecarroll.com/community/2029/connection-biblical-proportions-few-presidential-pet-projects/

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Westminster Eagle: There is no such thing as a simpler time

Westminster Eagle: There is no such thing as a simpler time

Kevin Dayhoff

Posted on www.explorecarroll.com 1/07/09

It's the first week of 2009 and, by now, most of us are back to work with the extra pounds of the holidays and the memories of 2008, and we're beginning to focus upon the challenges of 2009.

At gatherings I attended during the holidays, much of the conversation concerned the state of the economy.

On several occasions I heard folks yearning for "simpler days." To which I cringe. The concept of the "simpler days of yesteryear" is a myth perpetuated by the historically uninformed to make a point that we've somehow gone astray.

In the past several years, I have lamented over how the "Internet Age" has resulted in revisionist history obtusely retold in today's context in order to perpetuate a particular political agenda.

Pick a time of economic chaos in history. Or a time of war or great social change. Pick a year, any year, and an accurate portrayal of history will put into context immense challenges and how our nation successfully came together to face those challenges.

To be certain, it wasn't always pretty. However, as any of the great folks who have gone before us will tell you, there was nothing simple about overcoming the challenges of any day.

For whatever reason, in the middle of suffering through one of those soliloquies about how days gone by were simpler, my thoughts drifted to 1942.

It was less than a month after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, that the dawn of the New Year in 1942 witnessed Carroll County engaged in the work of helping with the war effort.

According to "From Our Front Porch," a history of Carroll County in the 1900s by Jim Lee, "As the new year arrived, Carroll stepped up its efforts to prepare for potential enemy invasions. ... In Westminster, a blackout rehearsal (had taken place) on Dec. 12, at 9 p.m. Following that, a meeting of all county Civil Defense personnel was called for 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the Westminster Firemen's Building."

As part of the efforts to protect Carroll County from the enemy, members of the Civil Defense units would work shifts "at an air raid lookout post" looking for enemy aircraft flying over the county.

Another local defense initiative saw "more than 1,100 Carroll countians signed up as Minute Men.

"The men wore a determined expression that boded no good for any invaders in Carroll County... Crack riflemen" were among the accumulated defensemen. "One man is keeping his fox hounds in excellent condition (to help) lookout for parachutists ..."

The book also reports that, "in February (1942) the City of Westminster informed residents it would provide sand to homes that could be used to extinguish fires from incendiary bombs."

Carroll County was not bombed or attacked, and by today's standards some of the events of the dawn of 1942 may seem silly for those predisposed to analyze history with a 20/20 hindsight sense of false superiority.

As we look forward to 2009, our own challenges seem overwhelming.

However, by rolling up our sleeves and applying a good dose of common sense, we will rise to the occasion ... just as we have in the past.

One can be sure that our efforts to overcome the challenges will not always be pretty, but we'll get there. It's in our heritage.

Kevin Dayhoff writes from Westminster. E-mail him at kdayhoff AT carr.org.

20090107 WE There is no such thing as a simpler time weked

http://explorecarroll.com/opinion/2023/there-no-such-thing-simpler-time/

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Recent Explore Carroll columns by Kevin Dayhoff

Recent Explore Carroll columns by Kevin Dayhoff

January 9, 2009 Kevin Dayhoff

A connection of Biblical proportions and a few presidential pet projects
Published January 9, 2009 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
I'm excited about the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. It is quite a testimony to our great country to have overcome the yoke of...

There is no such thing as a 'simpler time'
Published January 7, 2009 by Westminster Eagle
It's the first week of 2009 and, by now, most of us are back to work with the extra pounds of the holidays and the...

New Year celebrations filled with joy, hope ... and great food
Published January 2, 2009 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
Well, The calendar on the wall tells me 2008 is now but a memory. Now we can look forward to the twists, turns and opportunities...

New beginnings, new hopes and new adventures of 2009
Published December 31, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Happy New Year. It is not happenstance that the month of January was named for the Roman god, Janus, who is pictured with two heads....

Carrying a tune, and its words of harmony, into the new year
Published December 28, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
As the 2008 Christmas and Hanukkah holidays come to a close, I do hope everyone has recovered from the shock and awe of spending the...

As Santa hits the road, fire department is a driving force
Published December 24, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Tonight's the night when all good little boys and girls go to bed and lay awake listening for Santa Claus. Last week I had the opportunity...

Carroll shares a history of joining as a community in faith and song
Published December 21, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
Some of the many reasons we have such a high quality of life in Carroll County can be traced to the religious traditions found in...

Antler envy: Why Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer is probably a cross dresser
Published December 17, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
In an era when nothing is sacred, we are fortunate in Carroll County to celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah -- and not the "winter festivities between...

This time of year, we can't get enough Christmas music, or eggnog
Published December 14, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
EAGLE ARCHIVE The Christmas season means different things to different folks. I have many great childhood Christmas memories of growing up in Westminster. I'm biased of...

Shop Carroll for that hippopotamus this Christmas
Published December 10, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Westminster certainly loves to pull out all the stops for the holiday season. This year is certainly no exception. The weekend after Thanksgiving featured the...

Everyone's a winner at the Westminster Holiday Parade
Published December 10, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
... but here are entries the judges liked best Westminster's annual Holiday Parade was a great time for all. Judges said determining particular "winners" in...

Everyone's a winner at the Westminster Holiday Parade ...
Published December 5, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Westminster’s annual Holiday Parade was a great time for all. Judges said determining particular “winners” in various parade categories was difficult because everyone — the...

In the end, Rutherford Hayes had the croquet balls to be president
Published December 4, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle, Westminster Eagle
For this Sunday's column, let's keep it light. May we discuss croquet? At my age, croquet is about as close to a contact sport as...

Luebberman marks 20 years with Westminster Fire Dept.
Published December 3, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Kevin Dayhoff kdayhoff@carr.org Cake and stories were served Nov. 22 as about 30 members of the Westminster Volunteer Fire Department gathered at the John Street firehouse...

Letters
Published December 3, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
Dayhoff right to lament loss of Pour House on Main St. I just wanted to say "BRAVO" to Kevin Dayhoff regarding his recent column in...

One turkey leg, early Thanksgivings and a pair of President Harrisons
Published November 30, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
We certainly hope you had a great Thanksgiving and are now enthroned upon the couch, watching football and relaxing with a pair of birds: a...

Waist is a terrible thing to mind
Published November 24, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
I hope you have a great Thanksgiving. I'm looking forward to it because it will be the first holiday in which my extended family gets...

Turkey, stuffing, illegal radios and rowdy college kids
Published November 23, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
This Thursday is Thanksgiving, and we at The Eagle hope you have a great turkey-day with lots of food, friends and family. Perhaps because of our...

Welcome to the Coffee Shop Bank and Trust Company
Published November 19, 2008 by Westminster Eagle
I was sad to see last week that the Pour House Café on East Main Street in Westminster was closing. The unreal irony of the...

At Westminster polls in 1920, the 'Women Disappointed Them'
Published November 16, 2008 by Sunday Carroll Eagle
EAGLE ARCHIVE The fact that women gained the right to vote was a milestone that got mixed reviews in Carroll County after the 19th Amendment...

20090109 Recent Explore Carroll columns by Kevin Dayhoff

Twitter:
20090109: Recent Explore Carroll http://tiny.cc/BY0Wt columns by Kevin Dayhoff http://tiny.cc/f1HdU

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

TimesWatch Tracker for January 13, 2009

TimesWatch Tracker for January 13, 2009

TimesWatch Tracker Documenting and Exposing the Liberal Agenda of the New York Times

TimesWatch Tracker: Our Latest Analysis Tuesday, January 13, 2009

More Unfairness Against Israel Double standards in Gaza: Reporter Ethan Bronner put the Palestinian case in emotionally resonant terms, while his marshalling of pro-Israel arguments is scattered and grudging.

Reviewer: Reporter David Sanger's Book Sure to Infuriate Rove, Bill O'Reilly A reviewer on reporter David Sanger's anti-Bush book: "These unvarnished conclusions by Mr. Sanger will of course confirm the perfidy that Karl Rove and Bill O'Reilly presume lies in the black hearts of Times reporters. But Mr. Sanger's criticism, the product of extraordinarily diligent reporting, is too hawkish to be easily dismissed by conservatives."

Just Getting By on the Upper West Side Everyone is hurting: "Instead of a long weekend at Canyon Ranch, maybe a day at the Cornelia Day Resort will do the trick."

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20090113 TimesWatch Tracker for January 13, 2009
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

The UN school headmaster in Gaza was a Hamas bombmaker

The UN school headmaster in Gaza was a Hamas bombmaker

Samuel J. Scott
January 11, 2009

My Teacher, My Bombmaker
RISHON LEZION, Israel — Remember how Israel bombed, with justification, a United Nations school in the Gaza Strip? Well, as it turns out, the headmaster was a Hamas bombmaker.
He also taught science, of course.
Written by Sam Scott
11 January 2009 at 11:04 am
Posted in Anti-Semitism, Islam, Israel, Palestine, Politics, Religion, The Middle East, War, War on Terror


Hamas’ War Crimes
If you think that Israel is committing war crimes and holds responsibility for the deaths of many civilians, read this.
Written by Sam Scott
11 January 2009 at 10:48 am
Posted in Anti-Semitism, Civil Liberties, Europe, Islam, Israel, Journalism, Judaism, Law, Palestine, Politics, Religion, The Middle East, War, War on Terror

20090111 The UN school headmaster in Gaza was a Hamas bombmaker

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Main Street Westminster, Maryland Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Main Street Westminster, Maryland Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Dayhoff Daily Photoblog

Traveling east on Westminster’s Main Street at 5 PM. To the right is the Westminster branch of the Carroll County Public Library.

20091113 DDP Main Street Westminster, Maryland

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Samuel J Scott: The Zohar

Samuel J. Scott: The intersection of politics, religion, media and business

The Zohar (1:1b) January 13, 2009

An ongoing series

[I recently purchased the new, English translation of the Zohar, the book that laid the foundation for Jewish mystical thought and the Kabbalah. It is the most important book in Judaism after the Bible and the Talmud. As I go through the Zohar, I will be publishing excerpts here for any readers who may be interested in addition to my series of commentaries on each week's Torah portion.]

Read his entire post here: The Zohar (1:1b)

http://samueljscott.wordpress.com/2009/01/13/the-zohar-11b/

20090113 Samuel J Scott The Zohar

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Minutes of the City of Westminster Council Meeting for December 8 2008

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Minutes of City Council Meetings | Agenda for next City Council Meeting

Minutes of City of Westminster Council Meeting

December 8, 2008

A meeting of The Mayor and Common Council was held in the John Street Quarters of the Westminster Fire Company, 28 John Street, Westminster, Maryland, on the evening of December 8, 2008 at 7:00 P.M. President Pro Tem Albert; Mayor Ferguson; Council Members Wack, Pecoraro, and Utz; City Administrator Wolf; Director of Planning, Zoning, and Development Beyard; Recreation and Parks Director Schroers; Director of Public Works Glass; City Treasurer Unger; Major Stevens; City Attorney Walsh; and City Clerk Taylor were present. Council President Chiavacci and Chief Spaulding were excused from attending.

Mayor Ferguson made the following statement:

THE MAYOR AND COMMON COUNCIL HAD SCHEDULED A PUBLIC HEARING TONIGHT ON TWO PROPOSED ORDINANCES, ORDINANCE NOS. 796 AND 797. THESE ORDINANCES DEAL WITH PROPOSED ADJUSTMENTS IN SEWER CHARGES AND WATER RATES FOR METERED SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE CITY TO USERS WITHIN THE CITY AND IN SURROUNDING AREAS OF THE COUNTY. UNFORTUNATELY, THAT HEARING WILL NOT BE CONDUCTED TONIGHT AND NO TESTIMONY WILL BE RECEIVED. A NEW HEARING DATE WILL BE SCHEDULED FOR EARLY NEXT YEAR.

IN PREPARATION FOR THE SCHEDULED HEARING, STAFF HAS DETERMINED THAT CERTAIN ADJUSTMENTS AND CLARIFICATIONS WILL HAVE TO BE MADE TO THE RATE CONVERSION MODEL WHICH THE CITY DEVELOPED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ITS EXPERTS, THE MUNICIPAL AND FINANCIAL SERVICES GROUP. AS A RESULT, IT WILL BE NECESSARY TO REVISE AND ADJUST THE RATES AND CHARGES PRESENTLY PROPOSED IN 796 AND 797. INDEED, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT AFTER FURTHER REVIEW, NEW ORDINANCES WILL BE PREPARED. WE APOLOGIZE FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE TO ANYONE WHO HAS TAKEN THE TIME AND EFFORT TO APPEAR HERE TONIGHT. STAFF IS PASSING AROUND A SIGN-UP SHEET SO THAT ANYONE WHO WISHES TO BE NOTIFIED OF THE UPCOMING HEARING CAN BE NOTIFIED.

WE ARE SURE THAT YOU CAN APPRECIATE THAT THE CITY WISHES TO TAKE THE TIME AND EFFORT NECESSARY TO INSURE THAT ANY NEW RATES AND CHARGES WILL BE DEVELOPED WITH GREAT CARE AND ATTENTION.

YOUR PATIENCE AND ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER IS APPRECIATED.

ANYONE WHO WISHES TO LEAVE NOW INSTEAD OF STAYING FOR THE REMAINING PORTION OF THE MEETING IS WELCOME TO DO SO. THANK YOU.

Mr. Schroers introduced Fallfest Board member Lori Graham, who presented checks from the proceeds of the 2008 Fallfest to the following charities: the Rape Crisis Center, the Mission of Mercy, the Carroll County Youth Services Bureau, and the Westminster Lions Club.

Greater Westminster Development Corporation members Toni Pomeroy and Lyndi McNulty presented awards to several participants in the 2008 Holiday Parade. The winners were the Wish Group for best float; Gizmos Old Ford Pickup for best vehicle; Mason Dixon Bernese Mountain Dogs for best animal entry; Westminster Ridge’s float for “Just for Fun;” Boys and Girls Club for best children’s entry; and North Carroll Community School for the Committee’s Choice Award. Honorable Mentions were awarded to Silvia’s Acorn, the Monumental Drum and Fife Corps, and Harry’s Main Street Grille.

MINUTES:

Mr. Utz moved to approve the minutes of the November 24, 2008 meeting. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR:

Mayor Ferguson reported on the success of the recent Holiday House Tour, which featured 14 residences and two buildings at McDaniel College. properties. He thanked Historic Planner Tim Rogers, the Streets Department staff, and all who worked on the tour. Mrs. Albert commented that some of the proceeds would be used to repair and refurbish the City Clock.

REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES:

Mr. Pecoraro announced that the Tri-Street Area Committee would meet the next evening. The meeting would focus on traffic issues. He noted that the Committee would meet again in January to adopt recommendations.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Mr. Pecoraro moved to suspend the Rules of Order and Procedure to introduce and adopt Ordinances 798 (Modifications to General Fee Ordinance) and 799 (Peddlers’ and Solicitors’ Fees). Mr. Utz seconded and the Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Beyard summarized the two Ordinances, which follow up on recently adopted Ordinances 791 – 795 concerning City fees. Upon Motion of Mr. Pecoraro, seconded by Mr. Utz and unanimously passed, Ordinances 798 and 799 were adopted. Mr. Pecoraro complimented staff on the great amount of work they put into the group of Ordinances.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Mr. Schroers presented a revised version of the Commitment of Intent with the Fallfest Committee concerning the City concession stand/community building. He advised that a new provision allows the City to occupy the building in times of need and that the Fallfest Committee has approved the provision. Mr. Pecoraro made a Motion to approved the agreement. Dr. Wack seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

NEW BUSINESS:

Mr. Beyard summarized proposed Good Cause Waiver No. GCW08-4, which would allow connection to the City water system of the dwelling at 110 North Cranberry Road. It was determined by the Carroll County Health Department that the existing well has become contaminated. Mr. Pecoraro moved to approve the Waiver. Dr. Wack seconded and that Motion passed unanimously.

Dr. Wack moved to cancel the December 22, 2008 meeting due to the holidays. Mr. Pecoraro seconded and the Motion passed unanimously.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS:

Ms. Wolf reported that she attended the recent Maryland Municipal Carroll County Chapter dinner and also a Maryland Managers meeting at which the problematic state of the economy was discussed.

Major Stevens reported on the coordination with the Sheriff’s Office of holiday patrols.

Mr. Unger briefly reported on the status of the audit.

Mr. Schroers thanked Ms. Graham and Ms. McNulty for all of their work on the holiday events. He also noted that the City Skate Park ramps are 90% complete.

Mr. Glass announced that the final pipe for the Medford Quarry Pipeline had been laid that day. He further announced that testing on the new Water Treatment Plant was completed successfully and that the plant would start operating 4-6 hours per day at first.

President and Chief Executive Officer of the Westminster Fire Company Dan Plunkert reported that the Fire Company would host a breakfast for the public with Santa Claus on December 20, 2008. He added that tickets for the Company’s May raffle are now available.

CITIZEN COMMENTS:

Greater Westminster Development Corporation Board member and City resident Lori Graham thanked the Police Department for inviting her to participate in the recent “Shop with a Cop” day.

County resident Beatrice Wolfe thanked the Fire Company for assisting her during a stroke in February 2008.

Ms. McNulty thanked everyone who helped with the Holiday Parade.

President Pro Tem Albert adjourned the meeting at 8:02 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Laurell E. Taylor

City Clerk

• January 14, 2008
• January 28, 2008
• February 11, 2008
• February 25, 2008
• March 10, 2008
• March 24, 2008
• April 14, 2008
• April 28, 2008
• May 5, 2008
• May 12, 2008
• June 9, 2008
• July 9, 2008
• July 14, 2008
• July 28, 2008
• August 11, 2008
• August 25, 2008
• September 8, 2008
• September 22, 2008
• October 13, 2008
• October 27, 2008
• November 10, 2008
• November 24, 2008
• December 8, 2008
• January 12, 2009
  

20081208 Minutes of the City of Westminster Council Meeting for December 8 2008
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

WANTED MAN AND PASSENGER KILLED IN CRASH AFTER FLEEING FROM TROOPER

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 13, 2009

UPDATED: 1/13/09 AT 3: 30 P.M. - WANTED MAN AND PASSENGER KILLED IN CRASH AFTER FLEEING FROM TROOPER

(Havre de Grace, MD) – Troopers recovered thousands of dollars worth of cocaine from the trunk of a car in which two men were killed early this morning after the driver fled from a trooper trying to stop him on I-95 in Harford County. The driver was identified as Charles L. Quinones, Jr., 37, of the 5200-block of Cromarty Road, Baltimore, Md. During the crash investigation, troopers found Quinones was wanted on a felony warrant in Baltimore County for failure to appear for a charge of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Troopers also found his driver’s license had been suspended in Maryland for more than one year. The passenger was identified as Willie S. Robertson, 74, of the 1000-block of Jeanette Way, Bel Air, Md. The 2005 Mercury Sable Quinones was driving was registered to Robertson. Shortly after 5:00 a.m. today, a trooper assigned to the State Police Pro-Active Criminal Enforcement Team was working patrol on southbound I-95 south of Rt. 272 when he observed the Mercury headed in the same direction. The trooper saw that the rear license plate was obstructed and determined the vehicle was traveling 72 mph in a posted 65 mph zone. Approaching the Rt. 222 interchange, the trooper activated his lights and siren on his marked Ford Expedition State Police patrol vehicle. The driver of the Mercury, later identified as Quinones, signaled he was pulling over, then quickly swerved to the fast lane and accelerated. Quinones continued south on I-95 driving aggressively as he weaved between vehicles. The pursuing trooper was traveling at 90 mph, but was unable to keep up with the fleeing Mercury. The trooper was about one-half mile behind as he approached the Rt. 155 exit and saw the Mercury swerve across several lanes, cut off a tractor trailer, and take the ramp to westbound Rt. 155. The trooper took the exit ramp and, near the end of the ramp about one-quarter mile off I-95, found the Mercury had gone off the eastbound side of Rt. 155 and crashed into trees not far from the shoulder of the road. The trooper and other responding troopers attempted to render aid to the two men and called for a State Police helicopter and an ambulance. Medics who arrived at the scene pronounced the men dead. Witnesses told troopers the driver of the Mercury was passing cars on the right as it came off Rt. 155 at a high rate of speed. They said the driver then lost control, swerved across the highway and crashed. A police search of the heavily damaged car found six and one-half ounces of powder cocaine in plastic bags in the trunk. State Police drug investigators estimate the cocaine could have been sold on the street for more than $18,000. The crash is being investigated by the Maryland State Police CRASH Team. A detailed crash reconstruction will be conducted. The investigation is continuing.

###

CONTACT:

Mr. Gregory Shipley Office of Media Communications & Marketing 410-653-4236 (Office) 410-653-4200 (through Headquarters Duty Officer)

20090113

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Carroll County Horse Fair and EXPO press release

Carroll County Horse Fair and EXPO press release

January 12, 2009

For additional information contact: ROXANNE BOWMAN

carrollhorseexpo@gmail.com or 443-621-0274

CARROLL COUNTY AG CENTER TO PRESENT: Carroll County Horse Fair & EXPO! March 21 & 22, 2009

Westminster, MD - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. To satisfy the growing demand for useful information needed by small farm and individual horse owners, backyard and weekend riders and owners, horse-related clubs and beginner and intermediate English and Western riders – the Carroll County Ag Center will hold the Carroll County Horse Fair & EXPO!, March 21 & 22, 2009 in the beautiful Shipley Arena. The entire event with the exception of several clinics will take place 'under the same roof'!

Expanding on the popular "HORSE FAIR" event operated for 13 years by the 4-H Therapeutic Riding Program of Carroll County – the EXPO! has expanded to provide practical knowledge for the average horse owner. In addition to the educational component, the EXPO! also includes a trade show with over 100 vendors displaying the latest and greatest in equine products and services. New and used tack and supplies will also be available at the TRP 'Clover Corral' at very reasonable prices.

'Hands-on' demonstrations and clinics will operate during all hours of the EXPO! and will answer questions such as: What do you do if your horse comes in from the field lame? How do you treat an abscess in a hoof? What vaccinations should my horse be getting? Do you think my saddle is the reason my horse is bucking? How do I get my horse on the trailer? In addition, nationally- known clinicians Scott Purdum and Kenny Harlow will both be presenting on Saturday and Sunday and will be available afterwards to answer any questions you may have.

Admission is $5 for those eight years of age and older. And, as an extra bonus – we have arranged with the J Bar W Ranch to offer EXPO! attendees a 'combo-pass' which allows them to attend both the EXPO! on Saturday and then the popular "Battle of the Beast": bull-riding show Saturday night. The combo-pass is offered at $20 for adults and $15 for children 8 to 12 for both events.

The EXPO! is the major, annual fund-raiser for both the Carroll County Ag Center and 4-H Therapeutic Riding Program of Carroll County - both 501(c)3 organizations. Profits from the EXPO! will help fund the many unique and worthwhile events and programs provided by both The Carroll County Agriculture Center and the 4-H Therapeutic Riding Program of Carroll County. All of us at the EXPO! are excited about the opportunity for horse lovers in and around Carroll County to have a show of this caliber here at home. We hope to see you there!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, EXPO! DEMONSTRATION AND CLINIC SCHEDULES AND A LIST OF SHOW VENDORS, GO TO www.carrollhorseexpo.com or call 443-621-0274.

20090112 Carroll County Horse Fair and EXPO press release
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Big Game Hunter

Big Game Hunter

June 4, 1993

I ran across this picture recently of me when I was quite younger and a big game hunter.

19930604 Grasshopper Hunting posted 20090113

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Removing Internet Explorer 8 and reinstalling IE7

Removing Internet Explorer 8 and reinstalling IE7

January 12, 2009

I spent most of the morning and well into the afternoon on various technical technology issues that have made my life miserable in the last several days; however, the biggest headache that I solved was removing Internet Explorer 8 from my computer and reinstalling IE7.

After a month of misery - I continue to wonder what was I thinking when I upgraded to IE8?

I am primarily a Mozilla Firefox user. I can usually avoid Internet Explorer for the vast majority of my work, however, there are still a few functions that are much more easily accomplished on Internet Explorer.

About a month ago, I upgraded to IE8 in the hope that several of the klunky operating issues had been resolved. Well, they have been resolved all right. They were made worse.

It was yet another less than desirable experience with Microsoft.

If Microsoft made televisions, we would all still be listening to the radio.

20090112 Removing Internet Explorer 8 and reinstalling IE7

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Recent articles by Bryan Sears in www.explorebaltimorecounty.com

Recent articles by Bryan Sears in www.explorebaltimorecounty.com

January 7, 2009

Baltimore County may run Robert E. Lee Park
Published January 7, 2009 by Baltimore Messenger
Management of the city-run Robert E. Lee Park could be transferred to Baltimore County under a tentative agreement between the two jurisdictions. County Executive Jim...


Robert E. Lee Park could come under county oversight
Published January 7, 2009 by Baltimore Messenger
Management of Robert E. Lee Park could be transferred to Baltimore County under a tentative agreement with the Baltimore City.County Executive Jim Smith...


Oliver 'confident' he'll be found innocent
Published January 7, 2009 by Towson Times
County Councilman Kenneth Oliver, indicted on charges of stealing money from his campaign account and other violations of state campaign finance law, said he did...


News Briefs
Published January 7, 2009 by Towson Times
TU to share plans for expanded sports arena Towson University will share architectural plans for an expanded sports arena complex on the existing...


Licenses top Smith wish list
Published January 7, 2009 by Towson Times
Liquor licenses for Towson and the transfer of a city park to county control are among the county's priorities for the 2009 General Assembly...


Smith announces legislative agenda
Published January 7, 2009 by Northeast Reporter
Liquor licenses for Towson and the transfer of a city park to county control are among the county's priorities for the 2009 General Assembly...


Courthouse will show Ravens colors
Published January 7, 2009 by Northeast Reporter
County Executive Jim Smith wants to create a "purple wave" of support for the Baltimore Raven's playoff run. Smith announced Dec. 31 that he is...


Smith announces legislative agenda
Published January 7, 2009 by Northeast Booster
Liquor licenses for Towson and the transfer of a city park to county control are among the county's priorities for the 2009 General Assembly...


County courthouse shows its Raven colors
Published January 7, 2009 by Northeast Booster
County Executive Jim Smith wants to create a "purple wave" of support for the Baltimore Raven's playoff run. Smith announced Dec. 31 that he is...


Legislators say they'll share pain of furloughs
Published January 7, 2009 by North County News
Baltimore County legislators say they will share the furlough pain of taking days off with other state employees, but not all of them will give...


Weekly pickup aim to increase recycling
Published January 7, 2009 by Arbutus Times, Catonsville Times
Recycling could become a little easier in 2009. The county plans to move to a "single stream" pick-up system, in which bottles, cans and paper...


Councilman Oliver indicted for theft of campaign funds
Published January 5, 2009 by Owings Mills Times, Towson Times
County Councilman Kenneth Oliver, indicted on charges of stealing money from his campaign account and other violations of state campaign finance law, said he did...


County exec reveals priorities for General Assembly
Published January 5, 2009 by North County News, Owings Mills Times
Liquor licenses for Towson and the transfer of a city park to county control are among the county’s priorities for the 2009 General Assembly session....


Smith announces legislative priorities for county
Published January 5, 2009 by Towson Times
Liquor licenses for Towson and the transfer of a city park to county control are among the county’s priorities for the 2009 General Assembly session....


The color purple
Published December 31, 2008 by Towson Times
County Executive Jim Smith wants to create a “purple wave” of support for the Baltimore Raven’s playoff run.Smith announced Dec. 31 that he...


Give furlough pay to charity, Harris says
Published December 30, 2008 by Towson Times
Baltimore County legislators say they will share the furlough pain of taking days off with other state employees, but not all of them will give...


Fast-food flap: Trooper charged with kidnapping
Published December 30, 2008 by Towson Times
A Parkville man has been fired from his job as a state trooper after being arrested Dec. 20 for allegedly leading county police on a...


Furloughs go from top to bottom
Published December 30, 2008 by Northeast Reporter
Baltimore County legislators say they will share the furlough pain of taking days off with other state employees, but not all of them will give...


Save the decorations, get rid of the Christmas tree
Published December 29, 2008 by North County News, Northeast Booster, Northeast Reporter, Owings Mills Times, Towson Times, Arbutus Times, Catonsville Times
Recycling a Christmas tree in the county is as easy as dragging it to the curb.Beginning Jan. 12, trash collectors in the...


Can you toss recyling schedule away?
Published December 25, 2008 by Owings Mills Times
Recycling could become a little easier. The county plans to move to a "single stream" pick-up system, in which bottles, cans and paper can be...

http://explorebaltimorecounty.com/search/more.php?f=news&p=1&s=Bryan+P.+Sears

20090107 Recent articles by Bryan Sears

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Carroll Tech Council 1st Annual Masquerade Ball

Carroll Tech Council 1st Annual Masquerade Ball on January 31, 2009

Exclusive to the Carroll Tech Council, but open to the public.

1st Annual "Come as your aren't" Masquerade Ball

Carroll Tech Council's Masquerade Ball "Come As You Aren't"
1/31/09 at Martin's Westminster from 7pm-12am
Masks required, costumes preferred.
Dancing, eating, drinking, games, auctions, magicians, photos, and tons of fun!
$70 per person, $130 per couple.
More info available on website http://www.carrolltechcouncil.org/
Please rsvp to tracy@carrolltechcouncil.org

Have you ever wanted to attend a masquerade ball just like in the movies? Well now is your chance. The Carroll Technology Council is breaking new ground by staging a Spectacular New Event. The Carroll County Masquerade Ball. Join us for fine dining, mixed drinks, beer, wine and dancing.

Who knows who you might meet. At 12 midnight the masks will come off.

It's the first event of its kind in the county, and we expect to make a spectacular entrance!

It's Coming Up Fast: January 31st, 2009

The event will be held at Martins Westminster from 7pm to 12 Midnight

Sponsors Still Welcome!

If your interested in being a sponsor, you're in good company. Carroll Magazine, Kohn Creative, Fallfest, Carroll County Economic Development, DBED, Pomeroy Jewelers and Gizmo's Art

Get in on it now. Sponsorships include tickets. So why not give it a whirl for a good cause. Here is the break down

$1000 for a table of 10. Includes program advertising and recognition at the event.

Individual tickets are available for $75 each or $130 per couple.

Contact Tracy Turner 443-244-1262

20090112 Carroll Tech Council 1st Annual Masquerade Ball

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Sykesville Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009

Sykesville Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009

MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL OF SYKESVILLE AGENDA FOR MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2009, 7:00 P.M.

SYKESVILLE MIDDLE SCHOOL MEDIA CENTER

7301 Springfield Avenue, Sykesville, MD

QUORUM: Mayor

MINUTES: Town Clerk

TREASURER’S REPORT: Town Treasurer

PUBLIC CONCERNS

BUSINESS

1. Public Safety Report – Chief Williams
2. New Police Officer – Swearing In
3. New Police Intern – Introduction
4. Recycling Demonstration – Maria Myers, County Recycling Coordinator
5. Solid Waste and Recycling Initiatives – Code Amendment - Public Hearing
6. Public Works – Two Replacement Employees
7. Public Works - Backhoe
8. Mayor and Town Council Annual Retreat – Set Date

OTHER

CLOSED SESSION:
1. Legal Consultation
2. Property Acquisition
3. Personnel

20090112 Sykesville Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Westminster Mayor and Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009

Westminster Mayor and Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009

City Council

City Council Members Minutes of City Council Meetings

AGENDA

CITY OF WESTMINSTER, MARYLAND

Mayor and Common Council Meeting of January 12, 2009

1. CALL TO ORDER – 7:00 P.M.

2. MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF DECEMBER 8, 2008

3. CONSENT CALENDAR:

November 2008 Departmental Operating Reports
Readoption of Carroll County Hazard Mitigation Plan

4. REPORTS FROM THE MAYOR

5. REPORTS FROM STANDING COMMITTEES

6. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS:

Suspend the Rules of Order and Procedure to Introduce and Adopt Ordinance No. 800 – Fire Police Corps

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

a. None as of January 8, 2009

8. NEW BUSINESS:

a. None as of January 8, 2009

9. DEPARTMENT REPORTS

10. CITIZEN COMMENTS

11. ADJOURN

20090112 Westminster Mayor and Council Agenda for Jan 12 2009
Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Mural at Harry’s Main Street Grille

Mural at Harry’s Main Street Grille

January 9, 2009

Over the years, the mural on the chalkboard just inside the entrance at Harry’s Main Street Grille in Westminster, Maryland has been a staple of the growing art scene in Carroll County.

And Harry Sirinakis and his wife Becca has been stalwarts of Main Street, Westminster and the art, culture and quality of life we know as Carroll County.

Harry's Main Street Grille
65 West Main Street
Westminster, MD 21157
410-848-7080
Closed on Sunday

http://kevindayhoffart.blogspot.com/search/label/Restaurants%20Harry%27s%20Main%20Street
20090109 Mural at Harry’s Main Street Grille

Kevin Dayhoff Art: www.kevindayhoff.com (http://kevindayhoffart.blogspot.com/)

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Harry’s window on the world

Harry’s window on the world

Daily Photoblog January 9, 2009 by Kevin Dayhoff

Peering out the window on to West Main Street and Jiffy Mart, while having dinner at Harry’s Main Street Grille on January 9, 2009

20090109 Harry’s window on the world

Mr Moose and Brenda Roper at Harry’s Main Street Grille

Mr Moose and Brenda Roper at Harry’s Main Street Grille

Friday, January 9, 2009

Top photo:
On Friday, January 9, 2009 Mr. Moose and Brenda Roper shared a moment together at Harry’s Main Street Grille before the Westminster Fire Department LOSAP meeting.

Bottom photo:
Mr. Moose gives Brenda Roper a hand with ordering dinner at Harry’s Main Street Grille in Westminster Friday evening, January 9, 2009.

20090109 Mr Moose and Brenda Roper at Harry’s Main Street Grille

Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

2008 Idiots of the Year

Idiots of the Year

January 9, 2009

Hat Tip: Grammy

I received this in an e-mail. I did not verify any of them. Sadly, I laughed at each of the stories…

I certainly hope that all the following are not true. However, after working with the public for four decades, I can easily believe each and every one of the following accounts:

Number One Idiot of 2008

I am a medical student currently doing a rotation in toxicology at the poison control center. Today, this woman called in very upset because she caught her little daughter eating ants. I quickly reassured her that the ants are not harmful and there would be no need to bring her daughter into the hospital. She calmed down and at the end of the conversation happened to mention that she gave her daughter some ant poison to eat in order to kill the ants. I told her that she better bring her daughter in to the emergency room right away.

Here's your sign, lady. Wear it with pride.



Number Two Idiot of 2008

Early this year, some Boeing employees on the airfield decided to steal a life raft from one of the 747s. They were successful in getting it out of the plane and home. Shortly after they took it for a float on the river, they noticed a Coast Guard helicopter coming toward them. It turned out that the chopper was homing in on the emergency locater beacon that activated when the raft was inflated.

They are no longer employed at Boeing.

Here's your sign guys. Don't get it wet; the paint might run.



Number Three Idiot of 2008

A man, wanting to rob a downtown Bank of America, walked into the Branch and wrote this, "Put all your money in this bag." While standing in line, waiting to give his note to the teller, he began to worry that someone had seen him write the note and might call the police before he reached the teller's window. So he left the Bank of America and crossed the street to the Wells Fargo Bank. After waiting a few minutes in line, he handed his note to the Wells Fargo teller. She read it and, surmising from his spelling errors that he wasn't the brightest light in the harbor, told him that she could not accept his stickup note because it was written on a Bank of America deposit slip and that he would either have to fill out a Wells Fargo deposit slip or go back to Bank of America.

Looking somewhat defeated, the man said, "OK" and left. He was arrested a few minutes later, as he was waiting in line back at Bank of America.

Don't bother with this guy's sign. He probably couldn't read it anyway.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Number Four Idiot of 2008

A motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that; measured his speed using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40. Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture, this time of handcuffs.. He immediately mailed in his $40.

Wise guy........

But you still get a sign



Number Five Idiot of 2008

A guy walked into a little corner store with a shotgun and demanded all of the cash from the cash drawer. After the cashier put the cash in a bag, the robber saw a bottle of Scotch that he wanted behind the counter on the shelf. He told the cashier to put it in the bag as well, but the cashier refused and said, "Because I don't believe you are over 21." The robber said he was, but the clerk still refused to give it to him because she didn't believe him. At this point, the robber took his driver's license out of his wallet and gave it to the clerk.

The clerk looked it over and agreed that the man was in fact over 21 and she put the Scotch in the bag. The robber then ran from the store with his loot. The cashier promptly called the police and gave the name and address of the robber that he got off the license.

They arrested the robber two hours later.

This guy definitely needs a sign.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Idiot Number Six of 2008

A pair of Michigan robbers entered a record shop nervously waving revolvers.The first one shouted, "Nobody move!" When his partner moved, the startled first bandit shot him.

This guy doesn't even deserve a sign.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Idiot Number Seven of 2008

Arkansas : Seems this guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinder block bounced back knocking him unconscious. It seems the liquor store window was made of Plexi-Glass.

The whole event was caught on videotape.

Yep, here's your sign.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Idiot Number Eight of 2008

We live in a semi-rural area, ( Weyauwega , Wisconsin ), and we recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: "Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! - I don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

STAY ALERT! They walk among us, and they REPRODUCE!

20080000 Idiots of the Year

Westminster Daily Photo by Karen

Westminster Daily Photo

January 9, 2009

A photo a day from Westminster, Maryland.

Trees at Dusk

Icy Pine

Last Year's Snow

20090109 Westminster Daily Photo

http://westminsterdailyphoto.blogspot.com/

Zero Day email attacks

Zero Day email attacks.

January 9, 2009

Is it just me or are others seeing the incidences of malicious spam, e-mail, and virus attacks on the increase. Anecdotally, I firmly believe that the amount of spam I receive is on the increase.

One wonders what the solution is.

Pasted below is an e-mail I received earlier today from a colleague. She received the “Zero Day” warning earlier at her place of work…

I thought others may benefit…

“Today we are again seeing a rash of emails containing links to virus-infected web sites. This latest round of emails appears to come from CNN.com, and asks the user to click on a link to a report on the current Israel-Hamas conflict.

"It is also possible that users could receive a similar email from a known address, even another … employee. Clicking on the links in the email will result in infection to your workstation and proliferation of the virus.

"It is extremely important that staff use caution if they have received an unusual or unexpected email, even from a known source. You are advised to delete unusual, unexpected, or suspicious email, or to contact Customer Support. It is up to all employees to be vigilant in defending against these attacks."

KED

20090109 Zero Day email attacks.

Kevin Dayhoff: www.westgov.net Westminster Maryland Online www.westminstermarylandonline.net http://kevindayhoffwestgov-net.blogspot.com/