The Chance of a Lifetime

Spend time talking with Terrell Talbert, a 17-year-old Northeast Baltimore resident, and you quickly realize that he has more maturity than most high school juniors.

Charm City Talent finalist Terrell Talbert

Talk to him a little longer and you will discover that his maturity cost a heavy price and was paid for in the currency of tears, pain and courage.

Terrell watched as a childhood friend was taken away from the neighborhood and sent to jail for carrying an illegal handgun. And the experience of losing friends to gun violence is seared in his memory and heart. 

So when he takes the stage at Baltimore City Community College’s Fine Arts Building at 7 p.m. on July 14 as one of seven finalists in City Council President Bernard C. “Jack” Young’s Charm City Talent (CCT) contest, Terrell will be doing more than belting out a song that reflects his experiences. He’ll be pursuing his dream and carrying the weight of Baltimore’s youth on his shoulders.

Charm City Talent finalist Ferlyn Virtudes

“If I start the change then maybe other people will follow me,” said Terrell, who will attend Allegany College of Maryland in the fall. “A lot of young people my age don’t have a proper role model to look up to. So I feel like I should be a role model to the kids coming up behind me." 

Terrell and six other Baltimore City youths have embarked on a journey to compete in Council President Young’s Charm City Talent contest – which is being produced by the Citizens Planning and Housing Association, Inc. – to prove that they’re Baltimore’s best.

Each of the seven finalists has a unique story.

Over the course of the next couple weeks Jack’s Journal will profile each of the seven contestants. These young people are doing more than participating in a talent contest; they are providing a positive example for each of their peers to follow.

A few years ago, Ferlyn Virtudes was living in the Republic of the Philippines. Today, 14-year-old Ferlyn is a student at Northwest High School who sings with conviction and will graduate next spring, two years early.

Charm City Talent finalist Octavius Johnson

“I’ve never been in a real competition before but some of my friends know that I can sing and they help to motivate me,” Ferlyn said. “Charm City Talent is an opportunity for people who have a dream. For me it’s really important.”

And Octavius Johnson, who recently graduated high school a year early, said he couldn’t help but jump at the chance to participate in Council President Young’s youth talent showcase. His goal is to set a positive example for younger students to follow.

“There was a time when I had a lot of peer pressure to become involved in gangs. I was not always the mature person I am today. Peer pressure can be intimidating,” said the Northeast Baltimore resident, who plans to attend Stevenson University in the fall.

In the coming weeks, these teenagers will spend time honing their voices in preparation for an event that they’ve each been dreaming of for a long time.

Please mark your calendars for July 14 at 7 p.m. Join us in the auditorium at BCCC’s Liberty Campus to encourage Baltimore’s youth. They need your support.

No Trash or Recycling On Monday, July 4

On Independence Day – Monday, July 4 – there will be no trash and recycling collection. Citizen Drop Off Centers are CLOSED (all yards including Quarantine Road Landfill, the Northwest Transfer Station and the Eastern, Western and Northwestern Sanitation Yards). Parking meters will NOT be in effect on Monday, July 4.

June is National Safety Month: Don't Text and Drive

June is National Safety Month, and each week carries a theme that brings attention to critical safety issues. June 26-30 focuses on staying off cell phones while driving.

Cell phone use behind the wheel is a growing concern. According to CTIA – The Wireless Association, in 1995, cell phone subscriptions covered only 11 percent of the U.S. population. By 2010, that number grew to 93 percent. As the number of cell phone users continues to increase, so does the number of drivers distracted by cell phones.

A recently passed state law prohibits Marylanders from using a cell phone without a hands free device while driving.

Every Baltimorean should be extra careful when driving around the city, and never use your phone while the car is moving. Remember: on the road, off the phone.

Information courtesy of the National Safety Council

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 speaks with city residents at a meet and greet at the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum on Monday, June 27.
Council President Young toured the new Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Housing and Resource Center on Thursday, June 23. This new center will provide high-quality housing and treatment for homeless Baltimoreans.	Council President Young presents a resolution to Miguel Vicente, executive director of Education Based Latino Outreach, at LatinoFest in Patterson Park on Saturday, June 26.

In talking to citizens and community leaders, Council President Young is often asked a number of interesting questions. Here is a sampling of the issues and concerns on the minds of everyday Baltimoreans.

Q: How do I participate in the city’s Single Stream Recycling program?

A: Citizens have a few options available to them: purchase and use a recycling bin, use a container of your choice that is clearly marked for recycling material, or use a cardboard box.

If you plan to purchase a bin, both 18 gallon and 25 gallon yellow recycling bins are now available at Baltimore City's Kane Street Yard (111 Kane Street, across from Patterson High School). Bins can be purchased between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. 18-gallon bins are $5 and 25 gallon bins are $12.00. There is a limit of four bins per purchase at the Kane Street Location only. Lids are currently only available for 25 gallon bins and cost $3.

Community groups can purchase in bulk and re-sell to their members.
Acceptable payment methods include cash, money order and check. Checks must be addressed to the Director of Finance and citizens must show proof of identification including address.

Thanks to the Baltimore Community Foundation and dedicated community partners, bins are currently available at other locations around the city. Visit baltimorecity.gov's recycling page to see where they're available.

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.

JustAdvice Legal Services
Tuesdays July 5, 12 and 19 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
University of Maryland School of Law, 500 W. Baltimore Street
Thursdays July 7 and 21 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Center for Urban Families, 2201 N. Monroe Street
Thursdays June 30 and July 14 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
University Hospital, 22 S. Green Street
Sit down with a lawyer at JustAdvice to discuss any of your legal questions and get brief advice. The cost is $10 – cash only. The lawyers can also help with expungement of court records for only the cost of the court filings.
For more information, call 410-42904809 or email justadvice@law.umaryland.edu.

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 labrynth, hikes and live music.

Studio Artist Biennial
Saturday, June 25 through Saturday, August 20
School 33 Art Center, 1427 Light Street
Experience an exhibition highlighting the original works of current School 33 Art Center studio artists. An opening reception will be held Saturday, June 25 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The gallery is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from noon to 6:00 p.m.
For more information, visit www.school33.org.

Youth Bmore Summer Block Parties 2011
June 30 (Mary E. Rodman Recreation Center), July 8 (CHM 1900 E. 32nd Street), July 21 (Perkins Public Housing), July 29 (C.C. Jackson), August 5 (Central Rosemont Recreation Center), August 11 (Gilmore Public Housing Complex), August 18 (Westport Public Housing Complex) and 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.

Pimlico Racetrack Fair
Friday, June 17 through Monday, July 4 from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Fridays and 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturday, Sunday and Monday, July 4
Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Avenue
Join us for first ever Pimlico Racetrack Fair in Baltimore! There is plenty to see and do including a huge carnival midway, delicious food, games, and live entertainment and shows including Sandlofer’s Wild West Show, Lance Gifford’s Magic Show, and many more!
For more information, visit pimlicofair.com.

JumpStart Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Recruitment sessions held Fridays July 8 and July 15 at 11:30 AM
EBDI, 1731 E. Chase Street
This FREE, three-month program provides interactive, hands-on and in-class training that will prepare
you for a career in construction and qualify you to enter a state-approved apprenticeship program.
For more information or to register, call 410-234-0660 x205.

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.

Bromo Seltzer Arts Tower Open Studio Day
Saturday, July 2 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
21 S. Eutaw Street
Open Studio Day showcases the talent of regional visual and performing artists. Come view art, visit work studios, meet and mingle with fellow art lovers and participating artists, and buy original pieces. Visitors can also take self-guided tours of the historic structure.
For more information, visit www.bromoseltzerartstower.com.

African American Festival
Saturday and Sunday, July 2 and 3 at 12:00 PM
M&T Bank Stadium, Lots B & C
The festival is a celebration of African American life, music, and culture. This family-oriented event is filled with celebrity artists and entertainers, children's activities, arts, history, education, financial literacy, health & wellness, and more. 
For more information, visit www.africanamericanfestival.net.

Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration
Monday, July 4 from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Inner Harbor
Enjoy festive music and a dynamic fireworks show at the Ports America Chesapeake Fourth of July Celebration. Celebrate the national holiday with music and entertainment at the Inner Harbor Amphitheater. The fireworks display begins at 9:30 PM. Visitors can enjoy the fireworks from the harbor or surrounding areas, including Canton, Federal Hill, Fell's Point, and Harbor East. Those traveling to the downtown area are encouraged to ride the MTA Bus, Metro Subway, and Light Rail.
For more information, visit www.promotionandarts.com or call 1-877-BALTIMORE.

BlueWater Berry Festival 2011
Sunday, July 10 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Herring Run Park, Belair Road @ Shannon Drive
Eat finger-lickin' BBQ, enjoy live music and take part in the famous native berry desert competition at this celebration of volunteers. Admission is FREE, and the festival will have cool exhibitors and artists with crafts, greening ideas and games for kids. Food beer and wine will be on sale, too.
For more information, visit bluewaterbaltimore.org.

Baltimore Career Fair
Tuesday, July 12 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Sheraton Baltimore City Center Hotel, 101 West Fayette Street
This FREE career fair is brought to Baltimore by Coast to Coast Career Fairs. Bring 20 copies of your resume, dress professionally and be ready to interview, and come with a positive winning attitude.
For more information, visit coasttocoastcareerfairs.com.

Artscape
Friday, July 15 through Sunday, July 17 from 12:00 PM until close
Mount Royal Avenue and North Charles Street
Join in Baltimore's celebration of visual and performing arts! This year marks Artscape's 30th anniversary. The festival offers an assorted selection of live music, cultural exhibitions, visual art, dance and theater performances, fashion, film, children's activities, and more.
For more information, visit www.artscape.org or call 877-BALTIMORE.

Foreclosure Intervention Workshop
Saturday, July 16 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Oliver Economic Development Corporation, 1400 E. Federal Street
It's important to understand your options as early as possible! This workshop will give you insight into basic steps you can take to save your home from foreclosure. Come speak with HUD-certified counselors, learn to create and stick to a budget, know your consumer rights and get out of financial trouble. 
To register for this free workshop, call at 443-388-9809.

Pavement to Prairie Party
Monday, July 25 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Academy for College and Career Exploration, 1300 W. 36th Street
Ever wonder what’s possible with 300+ volunteers, a few Bobcats, and a bunch of shovels and pick axes? Let’s find out! Our goal is to remove 3/4 of an acre of unused parking lot at a local Baltimore City school and transform the area into a vibrant, engaging outdoor classroom and community green space. Not that jazzed about breaking a good sweat while breaking rocks? We’ll also be adorning the school with a beautiful mural (minimal experience needed, think painting by numbers). Just knowing you’re joining in a monumental greening event that will help restore our streams and beautify our neighborhoods might well be motivation enough for you. But just in case a little added incentive is needed, the bands and crews for the 2011 Vans Warped Tour (200 of them!) will be joining the effort. So come on out and bust up some rock with the rock stars! In addition, the ten volunteers (ages 21 and under) who work the most hours with us from now through July 25th will each receive two free tickets to the Vans Warped Tour on July 26th.
For more information, visit bluewaterbaltimore.org.or email volunteer@bluewaterbaltimore.org.

International Festival
Saturday, August 6 and Sunday August 7 from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Poly/Western High School near Falls Road and West Coldspring Lane
Come enjoy this celebration of Baltimore's cultural diversity with music, dancing and a variety of free ethnic foods. Vendor space is available. Also, come see the 7th annual Baltimore International Festival Mayor's Cup Soccer Tournament!
For more information, call 410-396-3141 or email alvin.gillard@baltimorecity.gov.

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.