Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Just finished UPDATING my Blog

There is a place on the blog to join.  Please join.

There is a place on the blog to translate every post in almost every language.  Try it out.  It really works.

There is a place to leave a comment and/or make suggestions.  Please use it often.

There is also a place to rate each post.  Please take the time to do that when you visit my blog.

New pictures have also been added to keep it from being so boring, and some of the older ones have been removed.

For those who have been asking when oh when will I update my website,  IT IS CURRENTLY under construction and update.  For the past few years the code to the site was lost.  It has been found and will become active in the next few moths.  It is also another way to get news about Our City, Our County, and Our State.

Hope you will visit both OFTEN!

Greater Rock Creek Church Serving Dinner Thanksgiving Day 12 noon to 6:00pm

Now, I am cold from running around outside today, but I am warm inside from the joy that we brought to this couple.  A hot cup of coffee, some good music, and a moment to sit back and be thankful that my DAUGHTER is cooking THANKSGIVING DINNER for me tomorrow.  YES!  I could not ask for anything better.

My son, his wife, and some of their children will be celebrating Thanksgiving in North Carolina.

My youngest daughter's youngest children will be celebrating in Atlanta with their other grandmother, and her oldest daughter will be celebrating Thanksgiving in Baltimore with her best friend and his family.  She will be joining me on Friday (and then I will cook).

My oldest daughter and her family will also be celebrating Thanksgiving in North Carolina.  Earlier in the month she was searching for vegan recipes.  I wish I could taste some of the dishes that she has come up with, but alas I will be in Maryland.

As I contemplate Thursday, November 27, 2014, I am reminded that I have chosen not to cook and prepare Thanksgiving Dinner.  However, there are so many others who will not cook and prepare Thanksgiving Dinner because they have nothing to cook.

Thanks to Greater Rock Creek Church and its member, Thanksgiving Dinner will be served to any and everyone stopping by tomorrow between 12:00 noon, and 6:00pm.  During some portion of the day, Yours Truly will be on site to assist in the serving of the meals.
Greater Rock Creek Church is located at , 3401 Perry Street, Mount Rainier, MD 20712.   Rev. Gerald A. Grandison Sr., is the Pastor.
Need more information?  The phone number to the church is 301-779-8532.

Please share this information with anyone that you know may be in need of a friend, a meal or just companionship on Thanksgiving Day!

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Jimmy Tarlau selects a NEW CHIEF OF STAFF

Jimmy Tarlau selects a NEW CHIEF OF STAFF as he prepares to become the 47th Legislative Districts Delegate.

Jimmy Tarlau selects a NEW CHIEF OF STAFF as he prepares to become the 47th A Legislative Districts Delegate. Delegate elect Tarlau issued the following statement:

 In order to be a good representative you have to have good staff. This is especially true for new delegates who have to learn how to get things done in Annapolis. I am fortunate to have been able to obtain the services of Krystel Medley Greene to be my Chief of Staff.

She will be working for me in Annapolis and also handle constituent services during the “interim” (when the legislature is not in session). A graduate of Howard University, Krystel Medley-Greene, mother of five, is no stranger to the Maryland General Assembly and the 47th District. Having worked for Delegate Jolene Ivey her first year as a delegate as her Legislative Aide, she then went on to become Delegate Kris Valderrama’s 26th District Chief of Staff for five years.

Living in Cheverly for 15 years, she raised her family and became more knowledgeable of the 47th district first hand. She also was the Public Relations Specialist for Prince George’s Hospital Center during the early '90s.

 Krystel has been the business owner of a video production company, administrator of an emergency medicine practice, and registrar of a Country Day School in the Caribbean.

Potential Youth Employment Opportunity

The Prince George’s County Government, Prince George’s Community College, the Prince George’s County Public Schools, the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, the Greater Prince George’s County Business Roundtable, and the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce, are proud to announce the launch of Youth@Work/SYEP Job Training Program.

Youth@Work/SYEP Job Training Program, a robust and exciting initiative, is a collaboration with the Prince George’s County Summer Youth Enrichment program (SYEP). Through Youth@Work/SYEP participants ages 15-19 will have access to job training and opportunities to develop their resumes and explore career interests.

Youth and parents may join us at an Open House event to learn more.  Visit the college’s website www.pgcc.edu/go/youthatwork, or direct your questions via email to youth-work@pgcc.edu.

Open House Location | Prince George’s Community College, Accokeek Hall, Room

Time | 10 - 12 PM


Dates | Saturday, November 15 | Saturday, December 13 | Saturday, January 10

ATTORNEY GENERAL HOLDER 'S STATEMENT ON THE CONCLUSION OF THE GRAND JURY PROCEEDING IN THE SHOOTING OF MICHAEL BROWN

ATTORNEY GENERAL HOLDER 'S STATEMENT ON THE CONCLUSION OF THE GRAND JURY PROCEEDING IN THE SHOOTING OF MICHAEL BROWN


______________________________________________________________________________
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                   AG
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2014                                                                        (202) 514-2007
>WWW.JUSTICE.GOV<                                                                                     TTY (866) 544-5309

ATTORNEY GENERAL HOLDER STATEMENT ON THE CONCLUSION OF THE GRAND JURY PROCEEDING IN THE SHOOTING OF MICHAEL BROWN

WASHINGTON—Attorney General Eric Holder released the following statement Monday regarding the conclusion of the St. Louis County grand jury proceeding in the shooting of Michael Brown:

“While the grand jury proceeding in St. Louis County has concluded, the Justice Department’s investigation into the shooting of Michael Brown remains ongoing.  Though we have shared information with local prosecutors during the course of our investigation, the federal inquiry has been independent of the local one from the start, and remains so now.  Even at this mature stage of the investigation, we have avoided prejudging any of the evidence.  And although federal civil rights law imposes a high legal bar in these types of cases, we have resisted forming premature conclusions.
           
“Michael Brown’s death was a tragedy.  This incident has sparked a national conversation about the need to ensure confidence between law enforcement and the communities they protect and serve.  While constructive efforts are underway in Ferguson and communities nationwide, far more must be done to create enduring trust.  The Department will continue to work with law enforcement, civil rights, faith and community leaders across the country to foster effective relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve and to improve fairness in the criminal justice system overall.  In addition, the Department continues to investigate allegations of unconstitutional policing patterns or practices by the Ferguson Police Department.

“Though there will be disagreement with the grand jury's decision not to indict, this feeling should not lead to violence.  Those who decide to participate in demonstrations should remember the wishes of Michael Brown's parents, who have asked that remembrances of their son be conducted peacefully.  It does not honor his memory to engage in violence or looting.  In the coming days, it will likewise be important for local law enforcement authorities to respect the rights of demonstrators, and deescalate tensions by avoiding excessive displays—and uses—of force.”

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14-1321


DO NOT REPLY TO THIS MESSAGE.  IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, PLEASE USE THE CONTACTS IN THE MESSAGE OR CALL THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AT 202-514-2007.

Recycling in Mount Rainier during the HOLIDAYS ONLY!

PLEASE be reminded that recycling pickups will take place on Mondays during the holiday season.  Therefore, there will be no recycling pickup on Friday, November 28.  Recycling will occur on MONDAY, December 1.  Yard waste will be collected on second MONDAY of the month of December, January and February and by APPOINTMENT.  

Should you have questions about recycling, yard waste, and/or the trash collection schedule, PLEASE call Luther Smith or Ruth Sandy in our Public Works Department 301-985-6583.


THANK YOU, and have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Don't Get MAD Get Even -- does not mean BURN and LOOT!

Shocked, angry, disappointed, in disbelief, don't understand the decision that was reached in Ferguson, Missouri? Stop blaming those that are in power. Ask yourself, what are YOU DOING to change the dynamics of race relations in America? What have you done or are doing to make a difference? Do you belong to any SOCIAL ACTION GROUPS or just party groups and the feel good community service groups that make you feel good, but does not make you uncomfortable?

Let your voice be heard. Join today. Get involved. Be a part of the solution, AND NOT part of the problem. Click and past this link.  Sign the petition, and join your local NAACP today!

Here is a request from the NAACP

We've just learned the grand jury convened to investigate the shooting death of Michael Brown has chosen not to indict Officer Darren Wilson.

Malinda, this is a devastating setback in our fight for justice. But the grand jury's decision does not mean a crime was not committed in Ferguson, Missouri, on August 9. It does not mean we are done fighting for Michael Brown.

Sign our petition to the Department of Justice. Demand resolution to the federal, criminal civil rights investigation into Michael Brown's death.

We are all filled with frustration, disbelief, and anger over this decision. That the officer who shot and killed an unarmed black man with his hands in the air remains free is appalling. Local officials in Ferguson utterly failed in their duties to conduct an open and transparent investigation.

The local prosecutor who oversaw the grand jury process has significant personal, family, and professional ties to the local police department—the same local police who were slow to talk to witnesses and eager to attack protesters and journalists.

We will not allow this to be another Sanford, Florida. We will not allow the justice system to let us down once more. Take action today, for Michael, and for all of our sons.

While the NAACP joins the community in standing for peaceful protest, we will hold law enforcement officials accountable and ask that they adhere to the rules of engagement agreed upon.

We stand united with the community and other activists groups, demanding that all police officers wear operable body cameras; police departments reflect the diversity of the community that they are serving; and that Congress passes the End Racial Profiling Act.

Sign our petition to the Department of Justice right now:

http://action.naacp.org/write-the-DOJ-now

Thank you,

Cornell William Brooks
President and CEO
NAACP

Thursday, November 06, 2014

PERFORMING ARTS WORKSHOPS

What do you call a room full of Scientist, Poets, Authors, 
Vocalists, Artists, Musicians, Chefs and Entrepreneurs?

You Call It 
 
Visual Arts      Sciences  

                      Performing Arts  

WORKSHOPS
Location:  Prince George's Community College
   Marlboro Hall, Room 2067
               301 Largo Road, Largo, MD 20774

Dates:  Saturday,  November 1, 2014
             Saturday, November 15, 2014
       &
           Saturday, December 6, 2014

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm 
Come out to get mentored in your categories to prepare for the local competition.  Throughout this process mentors will help students develop their project according to ACT-SO guidelines.

For more information about the program 
Call Dora Myles-Moore @ (240) 543-2676
or email



  Business                       Humanities

The Menkiti Group Awarded Development Rights to Mixed-use Properties in the Heart of Mount Rainier Maryland

The Menkiti Group Awarded Development Rights to Mixed-use Properties in the Heart of Mount Rainier Maryland

WASHINGTON, DC - The Menkiti Group has been selected by the Redevelopment Authority of Prince George's County, Maryland to redevelop the 3300 block of Rhode Island Avenue in the Mount Rainier Gateway Arts District. The three historic buildings comprising the 3300 block will be restored by the Menkiti Group and will consist of 12 residential units above 10,000 square feet of commercial space. The Menkiti Group has already obtained commitments from Annie's Ace Hardware, famed restaurateur Joe Englert, and arts incubator ReCreative Spaces, to occupy the three commercial spaces fronting Rhode Island Avenue.

"We are honored to be entrusted with the redevelopment of this site and we are very excited to breathe new life into the existing buildings," stated Mark Rengel, Vice President of Development for the Menkiti Group. "The vibrant collection of uses that we have planned for the site will activate the commercial core of Mount Rainier and bring much needed economic activity to heart of the neighborhood."

The Menkiti Group is partnering with the Gateway Community Development Corporation, a local nonprofit dedicated to the revitalization of the Route 1 corridor, in the development of the project. During the design phase, the project team will conduct a number of public design charrettes to engage local residents and gain a practical understanding of the needs of the Mount Rainier community.

The proposed redevelopment will involve a number of sustainable design practices including provisions for an extensive green roof capable of retaining storm water on site, solar hot water heating, in addition to the potential for solar photovoltaic arrays on all roof areas.

"Mount Rainier benefits from many economic and physical attributes, including many historic and cultural assets, that position the neighborhood for a resurgence," stated Bo Menkiti, Founder and CEO of the Menkiti Group. "The renewal of the 3300 block of Rhode Island Avenue will be catalytic for Mount Rainier, and we intend to devote our time and resources to building the vibrant urban centerpiece that has been long desired by the local community."


About the Menkiti Group
The Menkiti Group is a real estate services company dedicated to transforming lives and communities in the Washington, DC area. The Menkiti Group is focused on strengthening neighborhoods through the strategic development, management, and sale of real estate in urban markets. The company has been recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing private companies in America for the past four years. For more information on the Menkiti Group, visit www.menkitigroup.com.

Process to Protest a Liquor License

OFFICIAL NOTICE

Pursuant to Section 10-302 of Article 2B of the Annotated Code of Maryland, Notice is hereby given that all alcoholic beverage licenses in Prince George's County will expire as follows:

Class A, Licenses expire on April 30th
Class B, Licenses expire on May 31st
Class C, Licenses expire on June 30th
Class D, Licenses expire on June 30th

In order to process a protest against the granting of the 2015 - 2016 License Renewal, a protest notice must be submitted to the Board of License Commissioners no later than March 1, 2015.

Protest of a renewal shall be filed on or before March 1, 2015 at the Board of License Commissioners, 5012 Rhode Island Avenue, Hyattsville, Maryland 20781.

Should you have any questions, please contact the Board's Office at 301-699-2770.

BOARD OF LICENSE COMMISSIONERS
(LIQUOR CONTROL BOARD)
FRANKLIN D. JACKSON, CHAIRMAN
SHAIHI MWALIMU, VICE CHAIRMAN
CHARLES W. CALDWELL, III, COMMISSIONER
EARL J. HOWARD, COMMISSIONER

Attest:
Diane M. Bryant
Administrative Assistant

November 5, 2014

Tuesday, November 04, 2014

VOTE TODAY IN MARYLAND

I am sure that like many Americans, you are sick and tired of politicians, Republican and Democrat.  I am sure that you feel, like many others, your vote does not count, and why bother, "they will do what they want to do regardless of whether or not your vote."

Those feelings are real.  In many cases, it appears that Americans have no choice in their future or their current situations.  Think about your feelings and then ask, "How did we get here?"

I believe the answer is simple.  Too many of us have walked away from our duties and responsibilities.  We have turned our democracy over to those who refuse to get a job are work for a living because they have made politics their job and the way they earn a living.  

WE THE PEOPLE must reclaim our government.  WE THE PEOPLE must say enough is enough.  WE THE PEOPLE must stop following the hateful, disgusting advertisement put out by those with money.  WE THE PEOPLE must look more closely at those who want to be in government and challenge them to work for the people and not themselves, their reputations, and their place in history.

TODAY is an opportunity for you to exercise your voice and select those who you believe will best represent the issues and values that you believe in.  TODAY is the day that you vote for those who will be in decision making positions for the next few years.

PLEASE don't be bullied into staying at home or at work because "your one vote will not make a difference."  Believe me it will make a difference even if your candidate does not win.  

In Prince George's County, Maryland, your vote on Question J will determine whether your County elected officials will stay in office for twelve years or eight years now, and open the door for them staying in office for life when they go after NO TERM LIMITS!  I say keep the door shut and keep two terms as the limit for those officials!  Everybody has a learning curve -- pilots, doctors, lawyers, and yes, politicians.  NO ONE was BORN INTO THE JOB.  If you run for the office, you are obligated to learn the job, and represent your constituents!  

VOTE NO ON QUESTION J if you live in Prince George's County.  It is in YOUR BEST INTEREST!

Live in Mount Rainier -- Mount Rainier Elementary School, 4011 32nd St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712 is your voting place.  Live in surrounding neighborhoods like Brentwood and/or Avondale -- then your polling place may be at Thomas Stone Elementary School, 4500 34th St, Mt Rainier, MD 20712 .


VOTE TODAY between 7:00am and 8:00pm!