Council President to Seek Partnerships for Programming

Dear Baltimoreans,

On Wednesday, August 17, 2011, the Board of Estimates unanimously approved an application I submitted seeking permission to solicit donations to help support, increase and enhance programs offered to Baltimore City youth and seniors.

Supporting programs that help to enrich Baltimore’s youth and seniors is something that I deeply enjoy doing.

I believe that our government has a moral obligation to ensure that our youth have programs that challenge them academically and physically. And our seniors deserve to benefit from culturally, mentally and physically stimulating programs as they enter their golden years.  

But recently, as governments adjust to the worst financial downturn in generations, many of the programs that help to steer our youth away from negativity and keep our seniors active have fallen victim to budget cuts.

The unfortunate truth is that as expenses continue to outpace revenues, cities like Baltimore are forced to prioritize, which ultimately leaves some valuable initiatives on the chopping block.

Fortunately in Baltimore City, the private sector has shown an enormous willingness to fill the gaps left by the cuts.

Last year saw a number of donors step up with donations to help keep our pools – which were slated to close early due to budget cuts – operating through Labor Day. Sometimes, all you have to do is ask.

In the coming months, I will work with agencies and private companies to identify areas in youth and senior programming that could benefit from increased funding. I will then work with the private sector to raise funds to ensure that these programs continue uninterrupted.

Government can’t solve every problem and fund every program. But working together we can help build a better Baltimore beginning today.

Click HERE to read a story from August 19 in the Baltimore Brew about the good news of my application's approval.

Bernard C. “Jack” Young
President, Baltimore City Council

Fight to Keep Baltimore Post Offices Open

City Council President Bernard C. "Jack" Young joined Councilwoman Mary Pat Clarke on Monday to protest the possible closing of eight Baltimore City post offices.

Council President Young speaks at a press conference organized by Councilwoman Clarke on Monday, August 15 in support of keeping all Baltimore City post offices open.

The Waverly Post Office, located in Councilwoman Clarke’s district, is one of the eight offices under review. It serves a population of 52,530, the second- largest post office service area in the city (after Arlington Station) and more than five times the national average of 10,000 people served by local post offices. In general, the average post office slated for closure in Baltimore City serves 3.5 times the national average.

The total population served by the eight post offices under review for closure is about 275,000, substantially more than the entire population of Harford County. The United States Postal Service is considering the closure of 11 percent of its post offices nationwide, but 36 percent of Baltimore City’s.

"If Waverly and the city’s other seven possible closures are any example, this entire review process should be 'returned to sender' for the adequate postage of transparent fiscal planning, geographic balance and criteria for change which reflect the special reliance on traditional post office services by our city’s and our nation’s minority, low-income, non-vehicle owning and urban populations - which are disproportionately affected in the Baltimore City proposal," Councilwoman Clarke said.

To help fight against these post office closures, please fill out Councilwoman Clarke’s petition.

BCCC Scholarships Available

Baltimore City Community College is currently offering scholarship opportunities that can make a world of difference to Baltimore City residents. Thanks to a generous donation from the University of Maryland Baltimore with funds from the U.S. Department of Labor, scores of students with an interest in biotechnology, environmental science or related sciences can receive up to $4,000 per academic year (up to $2,000 per semester) to pursue a degree or certificate at the BCCC Life Science Institute.

The BCCC Life Sciences Institute (LSI) is located at the University of Maryland BioPark in the heart of West Baltimore's Poppleton community. LSI students study in close proximity to researchers with the University of Maryland or the private biotech businesses also housed at the BioPark. Students not only receive excellent instruction from BCCC faculty, but also take advantage of internships and laboratory work experiences with neighboring entities.

LSI training prepares students for work in high-demand biotechnology-related career positions such as laboratory technicians and assistance in academic and research laboratories or biopharmaceutical production facilities. BCCC students have already been hired for full-time laboratory positions right at the BioPark. Attending LSI is also a great way to get started on a bachelor's degree. Students can transfer their LSI credits to local and national four-year colleges and universities. At a time when biotechnology is one of Maryland's fastest-growing industries – and when employer demand is high, especially for minority employees – this scholarship opportunity can have a huge impact on citizens.

To be eligible for the scholarships, residents must have:

• U.S. citizenship and Maryland residency,
• A high school diploma or equivalency,
• Ability to test into college-level courses, and
• Eligibility for financial aid.

For more information about this great opportunity, contact Ms. Vera Brooks in the Office of Financial Aid at Baltimore City Community College at 410-462-8500 or vbrooks@bccc.edu.

Here is a snapshot of the many meetings, events, discussions and visits Council President Young engages in on a daily basis as he works to strengthen Baltimore's communities.

Council President Young and Councilman Bill Henry kick off the second annual Gold Tournament hosted by the Baltimore Department of Social Services on Tuesday, August 16.

Council President Young listens to Gregory Legge Jr., an eighth grade student at Dr. Rayner Browne Academy, talk about the benefits of the ELev8 program at the City Council meeting on Monday, August 15.

Resources for Doing Business with Baltimore City

Click HERE for a list of helpful contacts and information that will help companies and individuals do business with the city. City Council President Bernard C. "Jack" Young has a fond appreciation for the importance of small businesses, how they fuel our economy and how they facilitate jobs and a better quality of life for our residents.

Free Job Training for Youth Ages 16-21

Attention all Baltimore City Youth! The Housing Authority of Baltimore City and Office of Resident Services are offering free job training to city residents from ages 16 to 21. If you are a high school graduate or are looking to obtain a GED, this is the perfect opportunity for you. Occupational skills training is offered for the healthcare industry, Microsoft Office certifications and other exciting career fields. Reserve your space today by calling 410-396-3212.

Druid Hill Farmers Market
Every Wednesday, June 1 through September 28 from 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Druid Hill Park near the Howard P. Rawlings Conservatory and Botanical Garden
For more information, call 410-396-7012 or visit www.druidhillpark.org.

Rec & Parks Outdoor Summer Concert Season
All summer long
Concerts will be held throughout the season. Jazz Wednesday evenings at Druid Hill Park from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. run on the first Wednesday of every month from June 1 to Sept. 7. First Thursdays at Mount Vernon Park from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. run on the first Thursday of every month from May 5 to Oct. 6.
For more information and the complete schedule, call 410-396-7459 or visit baltimorecity.gov.

Thursdays at the Lewis
Thursdays from June to August from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Reginald F. Lewis Museum, 830 E. Pratt Street
Do you wish that you could tour the museum after work? Every Thursday this summer, the museum offers extended hours from 5 p.m. 8 p.m. for a reduced admission price of $5. On the Third Thursday of every month, visitors can enjoy live music and free appetizers.
For more information, visit www.africanamericanculture.org.

Second Sundays in the Park
Second Sunday of each month from May to November from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Gwynns Falls/Leakin Park, 1920 Eagle Drive
Come spend an enjoyable afternoon in the park with activities for many interests and ages, including miniature steam train rides, guided tours of the historic orianda house, a labyrinth, hikes and live music.

Fell's Point Farmer's Market
Every Saturday from June 4 through November 12 from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Broadway Square in Fell's Point
After more than 200 years, the farmer's market is returning to historic Fell's Point! Come shop a great selection of local farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers and other homemade items.

West Baltimore Farmers' Market
Saturdays through November from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM
West Baltimore MARC, 400 N. Smallwood Street
The West Baltimore Farmers' Market presents its seconds season, bringing locally grown foods to the communities in West Baltimore. Farmers from around the region will have an array of seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, meat, and more.
For more information, visit westbaltimoremarc.blogspot.com.

Youth Bmore Summer Block Parties 2011
August 25 (Patapsco Recreation Center ) from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Come enjoy performances by Smash, Jessica Greene, Caddy Da Don, Lano Shire, Bossman, Baltimore Ray and more! Get there early for 92Q free giveaways and prizes.

Base Camp Discovery
Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, June 22 through August 31 from 10:15 AM to 11:15 AM
The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Druid Hill Park
Participate with your family this summer in a “Walk on the Wild Side.” Join a Zoo educator for a fun and informative walk through a featured area of the Zoo, exploring a new topic or zone each week. Limit of 20 people. Please gather at Base Camp Discovery by 10:15 a.m. First come, first served! Free with regular Zoo admission. Ages (recommended): 5 and up
For information about this and other zoo events, visit www.marylandzoo.org.

Dundalk Antique Appraisal Day
Saturday, August 27 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
6509 Colgate Avenue
Whether you have a pieced quilt that belonged to your great grandmother, an old wooden trunk in the basement, a treasured dinner service, an old toy you played with as a child, or a rocking chair that belonged to your great aunt, come to the Dundalk Antiques Appraisal Day and discover the value of your family heirlooms. Doors open to the public at 10 a.m. on August 27. The charge is $20 for your first item, $10 for the second and the third item is free. The item limit is 3 per admission. Lunch, snacks, and beverages are available from “This Swine’s for You Catering” and the St. Helena Community Association, Inc.
For more information, email antiqueday@yahoo.com.

Baltimore Music Festival
Saturday, August 27 at 7:15 PM
CENTERSTAGE, 700 N. Calvert Street
This 5th annual back to school fund raiser and concert will feature headliner Steve Cole, performer Kadejah One', songwriter Gordon Chambers, and many more. The festival will be hosted by Radio One's Larry Young. Bring a new school supply item to donate. Proceeds and donations will benefit local students.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.bilalaliproductions.com.

Summer 2011 Concerts in Riverside Park
Sunday, August 28 and Sunday, September 4 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Riverside Park
Come for great music and FREE admission to see Mambo Combo (Aug. 28) and Baltimore School of Rock Show Team (Sept. 4). Pack a picnic, a chair and a blanket and bring a few dollars for bake sale goodies and a raffle.

Interviewing Techniques Seminar
Monday, August 29 at 1:00 PM
Baltimore Works Career Center, 1100 N. Eutaw Street, Room 101
Come discover smart ways to talk about your skills and abilities, explain gaps in employment history, explain being terminated, and explain any criminal background.
For more information, call 410-767-2901.

Small Business Seminar
Monday, August 29 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Small Business Resource Center, 1101 E. 33rd Street, Suite C-307
This seminar is designed to provide training to small business owners who want to do business with the City of Baltimore. Come learn about optimizing your certification. Registration is $25.
For more information or to register, call 410-396-3818.

Totally Tremendous Tot Days
Fridays in September from 10:00 AM 1:00 PM
Port Discovery Children's Museum, 35 Market Place
Join Port Discovery for interactive story times designed for infants and toddlers (ages 5 and younger) in Tot Trails. Play at The Farm, the Royal Farms Convenience Store and Fill'er Up Station, Tiny's Diner, Wonders of Water, and more. Group and individual prices run from $3.75 to $7.50 per person.
To register for these special prices call 410-864-2664. For more information, visit www.portdiscovery.org.

Riverside Park Summer Concert Series
Sunday, September 4 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Riverside Park
Pack a picnic, bring a chair or blanket, and enjoy a relaxing summer evening with music and friends. Bring a few dollars for the bake sale and raffle. September's concert will feature Baltimore School of Rock Show Team.

5th Annual Back to School Jam
Saturday, September 10 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Coppin State University, 2500 W. North Avenue
The West Baltimore Clergy United hosts this massive outreach taking place on the campus of Coppin State University. Food and supply distribution will take place promptly at 9:00 a.m. All families must arrive no later than 9:45 a.m. to ensure that they will receive food and supplies. Since this is a family event, we even have something for the children. The Kid's Cove will be located in the Coppin Center. It will be complete with fun and games and a host of fun activities for children of all ages. Coppin's Tawes Center will host HIV/AIDS testing and other pertinent health screenings. Stage entertainment will include a host of local ministry performances to include comedy, rap, Christian hip hop dance, mime and much more.
For more information, visit unitedclergy.com.

Ukrainian Festival
Saturday and Sunday, September 10 and 11, from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Patterson Park
The Ukrainian Festival is a celebration featuring traditional crafts, a Ukrainian beer garden, children's activities and storytelling, and more.

Active Your Inner Citizen: University
Saturday, September 17 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Sojourner Douglass College, 500 North Caroline Street
CPHA is holding its semi-annual AYIC: University on September 17th at Sojourner-Douglass College. The AYIC: University courses teach Baltimore City residents the leadership skills they need to advocate on behalf of their community and to organize their neighborhoods for positive change.  
Register for this free series of leadership classes sponsored by Citizens Planning and Housing Association, Inc. (CPHA) at http://tinyurl.com/2011fallayicu. 

Westport Block Party
Saturday, September 17 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Westport Academy Field on Waterview Avenue
Come for live music, food and drink, a moon bounce and giant slide, contests and prizes, a bake sale, a flea market and more. Enjoy the party, clean out the attic, and earn a little money all at the same time!
For more information, call 410-370-6224 or emaileanes74@aol.com.

10th Annual Pigtown Festival
Saturday, September 17 from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
700 block of Washington Boulevard
Join us for amazing national, regional and local music, food and artists, plus incredible beer from our friends at Heineken. All the shops in Pigtown will be open, and there will be lots of activities for the kids too. Call for sponsors, artists and vendors. We're still accepting sponsors at all levels and we'd love to have you take part. And if you'd like to have space as an artist or vendor, we want you too!
For more information, call 443-494-9744 or visit pigtownfestival.com.

Street Beat Festival
Sunday, September 18 from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Charles Street and Cross Street, Federal Hill
This FREE event features live music all day on three stages, arts and crafts, food and drink, new carnival games, Kids’ Kross Street with lots of activities for children, and much more! Among the many bands playing will be a Baltimore favorite Nelly's Echo; Psycho Killers, the Talking Heads tribute band back by popular demand, Pietasters, Benny Marchant, Jamie McLean Band, The Congress, Federal Hill's own Jenny Leigh Band, and many more! More than 60 vendors will be on hand with a wide assortment of arts & crafts, and of course, no festival is complete without funnel cake!
For more information, visit historicfederalhill.org.

Community Gardens for the Community Professional
Wednesday, September 21 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
3355 Keswick Road, Suite 200
Are you interested in helping neighborhood groups and community associations plan a garden?  Do you believe that if you build it, they will come? They might not! Learn how to help residents choose a site, and how to provide the help that is needed while empowering people to take ownership of the project. Community gardening can provide substantial improvements to people and neighborhoods!   Join us to hear from the experts how to build a community garden that is sustainable for years to come.
Register for this free workshop sponsored by Citizens Planning and Housing Association, Inc. (CPHA), and presented by Baltimore Green Space at http://tinyurl.com/2011AYICWSept21.

Fells Prospect Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, September 24 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Rain date is Sunday, September 25)
How well do you know your neighborhood? Grab your friends for a fun filled adventure! Tickets will be $6 per person in advance until Sept. 17.
From Sept. 18-24 tickets will be $8 per person. Teams can be two, three or four people.
For tickets, email Laura Irwin at lcirwin@hotmail.com.

Sowebo Landmark 5k
Sunday, October 2 at 9:00 AM
Around Southwest Baltimore
The first annual Sowebo Landmark 5k will be held to encourage our community to become actively involved in tackling childhood obesity. What can we do to tackle childhood obesity? By building on the strengths of Southwest Baltimore, the Sowebo Landmark 5k run/walk aims to unite neighbors, families, schools, and local resources to empower our youth to be active, eat well, and lead healthy lives.
For more information or to register, visit sowebolandmark5k.org.

Wide Angle Youth Media: Baltimore Speaks Out
Mondays and Wednesdays from September 12 to December 7 from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Enoch Pratt Free Library, Herring Run Branch, 3801 Erdman Avenue
Tuesdays and Thursdays from September 13 to December 15 from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Enoch Pratt Free Library, Orleans Street Branch, 1303 Orleans Street
This program is a free media production program that trains young people, ages 10-15, to make media about their lives and communities. Youth are eligible to earn service-learning hours through participation.
To register visit the library branch for an application or go to www.wideanglemedia.org.

Office of the City Council President
100 N. Holliday St., Suite 400
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-396-4804 (p) 410-539-0647 (f)
CouncilPresident@baltimorecity.gov
Copyright (C) 2011. All rights reserved.
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