Westminster|News|
Community Update

Email: kym.byrnes@patch.com
Phone: 410-504-9565
Hometown: Westminster
Birthday: July 28
Kym earned a degree in journalism from Ohio University in 1996 and a Master's in Publication Management from the University of Baltimore in 2004. She worked in nonprofit communications for almost ten years before taking a break to raise her twins (who are now in elementary school). While home with her kids, she started freelance work as both a writer and a graphic designer. She became a regular writer for several local publications including the Carroll Eagle newspaper and Carroll Magazine. In addition to freelance work, Kym also worked as an adjunct instructor at Carroll Community College and McDaniel College.
Your Beliefs
At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. However, we also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. So in the spirit of simple honesty, our policy is to encourage our editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license for us to inject our beliefs into stories or to dictate coverage according to them. In fact, the intent is the opposite: we hope that the knowledge that our beliefs are on the record will cause us to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair, balanced way. And if you ever see evidence that we failed in this mission, please let us know.
Politics
I believe that it is a duty to vote. I believe that we all have a responsibility to be informed and engaged with what is happening in government - at the local, state and national level. I am a registered democrat although that does not necessarily determine how I will vote in any given election.
Religion
How religious would you consider yourself? There is something out there "bigger" than us, I have no idea what it is or how it works.
Local Hot-Button Issues
What do you think are the most important issues facing the community? Education, Ag Preservation, Smart Development, Spending

Forecasters are warning of 'locally damaging wind gusts and large hail.'
Campus security and Congressman Chris Van Hollen said no one will be kept from attending this evening's "meet and greet" at Carroll Community College.
What you need to know to start buying meat raised and prepared right here in Carroll County.
Buying local benefits the consumer, the farmer and the environment.
A short list of things happening in and around Carroll County this week.
A short list of what's going on in Carroll County this week.
Find out what your Carroll County Commissioners are up to this week.
Find out what your Carroll County commissioners are up to this week.
Links to obituaries as listed by several funeral homes in Carroll County.
Links to obituaries as listed by several funeral homes in Carroll County.
Fans can enter a lottery through July 1 to attend Baltimore Ravens training camp practice.
Fans can enter a lottery through July 1 to attend Baltimore Ravens training camp practice.
Congressman Chris VanHollen, D-Md, is scheduled to meet with constituents Monday at 5 p.m.
What do you think Commissioner Shoemaker will announce?
An ATF report reveals that more than 190,000 guns nationwide were reported lost or stolen in 2012.