Vandalism in Relay, Clearing Storm Drains, and a Free Ride

Keep storm drains clear. At the Greater Baltimore Highlands Community Association meeting Monday evening, Baltimore County community liaison Mike Lynch reminded residents about the importance of keeping storm drains clear during this rainy season, particularly in areas prone to flooding. If you see a storm drain blocked with debris, call 410-887-7428. The county will send an inspector and clear the drain if necessary.

Vandalism in Relay. According to a recent e-mail from the Relay Improvement Association, two residents on Elm Avenue had graffiti spray-painted on their fences. The stop sign at Elm and Cedar was also spray-painted with a racial epithet. "By itself graffiti is destructive to property, but now that the graffiti has escalated to a hate crime, we have to stop it," the e-mail said.

The email quoted a county police office as saying that Relay residents keep reporting the same three young males for vandalism and mischief. Neighbors in the area reported seeing a group of young males roving the community. RIA asks that residents contact the police when they see graffiti, vandalism or suspicious activity on the streets. The more vigilant the community is, the better chance the police have to catch and make a case against the culprits.

"We ask all parents to be certain they know where their children are after dark," the e-mail said. "Also, please take notice if children have spray paint cans or paint on their fingers and/or hands."

On the bus. Arbutus Senior Center is providing free transportation to the Chesapeake Theatre in Brooklyn Park to see the Maryland Senior Idol Competition on Wed., March 30. The bus will leave the senior center at 11:30 a.m. Tickets for the competition are $6. Bring one or two canned goods to be donated to the Maryland Food Bank. Stop by Arbutus Senior Center at 855 Sulphur Spring Road to purchase a ticket.