COUNTY EXECUTIVE RUSHERN BAKER VETOES PORTIONS of FY2016 BUDGET ADOPTED BY ALL NINE (9) MEMBERS OF THE COUNTY COUNCIL!

DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?

We are UPHOLDING THE CHARTER, now, but we totally use a loophole in a STATE LAW to try to pass a 15% property tax increase on residents of PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY!  I guess the game is to win at any cost because we KNOW that most of us will lay low, dodge the bullet, and try to not be seen or heard because, the tiny streak of County funding just may get smaller or completely cut out.  

Guess what?  It is going to get smaller any way.  That trickle down effect will be coming to a budget near you!  Your taxes will go up.  Your services will decrease.  You will be required to tighten your belts while you are being punished for the next two years for not supporting this FOOLISHNESS!

I remember another VERY RECENT administration that got so entrenched, AND RICH while serving as our County Executive.  Do you remember the kickbacks?  The money in bras.  The LAYOFFS?  The FURLOUGHS?  How about that huge COUNTY DEFICIT?

Press Release

For immediate release:

June 16, 2015

For more information, contact:

Scott L. Peterson

Deputy Manager of Communications/Press Secretary

Cell: 240-619-9400

Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III Vetoes Portions of the FY 2016 Budget Adopted by the Prince George’s County Council

Upper Marlboro, MD – Today, Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III transmitted a letter and Executive Order to Prince George’s County Council Chairman Mel Franklin vetoing certain items in CB-32-2015, a bill that approved the County’s Operating Budget and Capital Budget for FY 2016. The County Charter gives the County Executive veto authority pursuant to Section 411.  Copies of this letter and Executive Order are attached to this release.

Last week, County officials indicated that the Council violated Section 809 of the County Charter when the Council adopted a budget that reduced the proposed revenue estimates by 2.5%, which is much lower than allowed by the Charter.  Yesterday, County Executive Baker conducted a press conference to discuss his reasons for vetoing certain items in CB-32-2015.  To watch video of that press conference, please click here.

“I want the people of Prince George’s County to know that I must adhere to our Charter,” stated Prince George’s County Executive Rushern L. Baker, III,” “I swore to uphold the Charter and laws of this County when I took office.  It is my hope that we can quickly resolve this issue and make the necessary adjustments so we can move forward and continue to serve the people of Prince George’s County and make it better for future generations.”

ELECTRONIC RECYCLING -- Saturday, June 20, 2015 9:00am to 1:00pm

The next Electronic Recycling Event held for City of Mount Rainier residents will be Saturday, June 20, 2015 at 9 am – 1 pm.  DROP OFF Electronic Recycling to the Mount Rainier Public Works Department.

You can drop off your televisions, cell phone, vacuum cleaners, microwaves, and more.

Feel free to give the Department of Public Works a telephone call if you have any questions at 301.985.6583.

Veronica Owens

City of Mount Rainier

Assistant City Manager

City Hall, One Municipal Place

Mount Rainier, MD  20712

301.985.6585 P

301.985.6595 F

Goodbye to the Gazette

Love it or hate it, The Gazette played a major role in our lives and the County over the past few decades.

With mixed emotions I read that the final issue of the Gazette would be printed this month.  Not sure why they are closing, but I know I will miss them.

I use to love getting the copies in my driveway.  I hated seeing them on the roofs or just laying out there in the rain.

I could always go online and find a story that they published, and regardless of their position, it would always be there.

Thanks for the many years of service.

http://www.gazette.net/article/20150612/NEWS/150619526/1124/the-gazette-bids-farewell-after-decades-in-maryland&template=gazette

END OF THE YEAR FUNDRAISER FOR THOMAS STONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

THOMAS STONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL’S END OF THE YEAR FUNDRAISER

WHO IS INVITED;        THOMAS S. STONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAMILY and our Community Neighbors

TO WHAT:                    Our end of the year celebration/fundraiser. 

WHEN:                        Friday, June 19, 2015

TIME:                          3pm to 9pm

WHERE:                      Chuck E Cheese

1127 University Blvd W

Takoma Park, MD 20912. 

Don't forget to stop by the registrar and mention that you are there to support Thomas S. Stone Elementary.  Hope to see you there!

Apply Now for Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Program

Press Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday, May 28, 2015 Contact: John Coleman (410) 767-4614 (o) (410) 652-3652 (c)

Apply Now for Sustainable Communities Tax Credit Program  MHT Accepting Applications for Historic Commercial Properties through August 31 For an Adobe Acrobat version of this press release, click here. CROWNSVILLE, MD - Owners of historic commercial properties take note: Now is the time to submit an application for a state income tax credit for renovating your historic structures in Maryland. Fiscal year 2016 applications opened this week for the Sustainable Communities Competitive Commercial Tax Credit program, administered by the Maryland Historical Trust. Commercial property owners may receive a tax credit of up to 20 percent of eligible expenses to a total of $3 million for substantial rehabilitation projects.An additional 5 percent credit is available for projects that achieve LEED Gold Certification or equivalent. Applications are rated and ranked by the Maryland Historical Trust and compete for a total of $9 million in tax credit awards. The state tax credit program has helped property owners throughout Maryland redevelop and reuse historic buildings since 1996. The tax credit preserves some of Maryland's most unique historic structures as well as creates spin-off community benefits. The program has been credited with creating jobs, enhancing values of nearby properties and transforming neglected neighborhoods. Studies have shown that every dollar of historic tax credit generates more than $8 in economic activity and each $1 million invested by the state program generates 72 jobs. Reusing historic structures is another way that we can support communities, preserve historic resources and enrich lives. For more information, go to the Maryland Historical Trust's tax credit page.

The Green Festival

The City of Mount Rainier is participating in and will have a table at “The Green Festival” being held June 5 (12:00 - 6pm), June 6 (10:00 am -6 pm), and June 7 (10:00 am - 5 pm) at the Washington Convention Center.  

This marks the 11th Green Festival at the D.C. Convention Center.  Washington, D.C. earns top rankings for public involvement in environmental policies, and features some of the most advanced green building laws in the Country.

One of the giveaways for attendees of the festival will be a lunchbox and the City of Mount Rainier will be including coupons from MR businesses in the lunch boxes, which will bring consumers to our local business. 

Come out and support this event at the DC Convention Center and get a taste of Mount Rainier.

THANK YOU TO MY FRIENDS -- my CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE.

Today is a day of very conflicting emotions.  Happiness for the launch of my daughter's 501 (c) 3 nonprofit, and the final rites for my best friend, Yvette Rene Mills.

As I prepare to move through this day, I am thankful that God has once again smiled on me and allowed me to wake up among the living.

Another great even occurring in my life today is that a woman I have never met is in Maryland and she and I are planning to meet for the first time, not on businesses, but to confirm a friendship that we've started online.  Not sure of her schedule yet, but I am sure that I plan to meet her while she is in Maryland, and to begin the journey of friendship.

Friendships and relationship are important.  My Mother once told me that if you had ONE real friend in this lifetime, you would be richer than words could ever express.  But if you had TWO, there would be no money on earth as valuable.  

I can say today without hesitation, I have at least four friends (Jesse Moore, Yvette Rene Mills, Washington Armstrong, III, and Patricia D. Fenn) that have been my CLOSE and PERSONAL friends for more than four decades.  MY TRUE BFFs through thick and thin.  They have been my sisters and brother.  They have walked with me a mile in my shoes.  They have seen my hurt and my pain.  They have gone with me through my divorce, raising of my children, difficult times on the job, and through my good times.  They have been there when I called late at night.

Today a second one of my BFF's will be laid to rest, and I am feeling kind of torn, kind of worried about what lies ahead, and on our circle being so fractured.  Jesse Moore would say "hang in there Lynn, I got your back and you know it."  Yvette would say, "Cut, you have always been a woose when it comes to death and funerals, so don't show up at my funeral to prove your friendship on my account.  I know how you are!"

My children believe that I have acquired some of the strangest people on earth to include in my inner circle, and I think they are right.  They have got to be strange to put up with a character like me.  I am honored to be called their friends.  My circle of influence hold some other close friends, Martha, Adrienne, Marlene, Diane and now Ida.  I hope and pray that as the year come and go, they too will become my new BFFs...at least one or two of them.

Patricia D. Fenn, and Washington Armstrong, III are taking this walk with me.  They have every intention of standing by my side.  To attend the Breakfast this morning, and the wake and funeral later on, IF I choose to go.  OR they are prepared to take me to the casino, a bar, another church or whatever it takes today to make sure that I am alright.  I guess, my Mother would say that I have been truly blessed and HIGHLY favored to have such loyal and dedicated friends in my circle.

So as I prepare to continue my journey through life today, I want to thank my two remaining BFFs for their love, loyalty, friendship, courage, and willingness to stand by me.  I just pray that I am as good of a friend to them as they have always been to me.

Feeling the love guys!  Thank you.

$10 breakfast at APPLEBEE'S 8:00am Today LARGO TOWN CENTER

This morning, my daughter, Nneka Barnes launches her nonprofit, Baby Sister's Song: EA / TEF with breakfast at Applebee's Largo Town Center, 1000 Largo Center Dr, Largo, MD 20774.  It is a registered 501 (c) 3 and a charitable organization in the State of Maryland.

This very important new organization, Baby Sister's Song: EA/ TEF will address issues and concerns around children and parents born with Esophageal Atresia with or without a Tracheoesophageal Fistul, - See more at: http://www.babysisterssong.org/#sthash.N8Vxqgts.dpuf. 

The Cost is only $10, and a portion of that money will go to this organization. Breakfast starts at 8:00am and ends at 10:00am. 

Since you will be eating breakfast somewhere this morning, consider having breakfast at Applebee's. 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Presidential Proclamation -- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 2015

ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH, 2015

- - - - - - -

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

The rich heritage of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders spans the world and the depths of America's history.  Generation after generation, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have forged a proud legacy that reflects the spirit of our Nation -- a country that values the contributions of everyone who calls America home.  During Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, we honor the perseverance of those who courageously reached for their hopes and dreams in a new land, and we celebrate the important impact the AAPI community has made on our Nation's progress.

From the more than one million immigrants who journeyed across the Pacific and arrived on Angel Island to the Chinese-American laborers who risked their lives to link our coasts by rail, the determination of this vibrant community represents the best of our national character.  In each chapter of our country's story -- in places like Selma and the grape fields of Delano, during the moments where our Nation's destiny has been decided -- AAPIs of all backgrounds have set inspiring examples as leaders and trailblazers, united by a common hope for civil rights, equal treatment, and a better tomorrow for all Americans.

Through times of hardship and in the face of enduring prejudice, these women and men have persisted and forged ahead to help strengthen our Union.  Native Hawaiians have fought to protect their treasured traditions, language, and lands.  And AAPI patriots have defended the beliefs for which we stand.  Seventy years ago, the United States and our allies secured a lasting peace throughout the Asia Pacific region and much of the world -- a victory achieved in part by thousands of Filipino Americans who fought valiantly but were denied compensation, and also by Japanese Americans who served this country even as the freedom of their loved ones was denied.

Fifty years ago, the United States opened new doors of opportunity to more Asian and Pacific Islander immigrants through the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, ending the arbitrary and outdated policies that unfairly limited the potential of entire regions.  This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, which brought new Vietnamese, Cambodian, Hmong, and Laotian communities to this country.  But as we recognize the enormous progress America has made, we must also acknowledge the many struggles AAPIs continue to experience in the face of persistent inequality and bigotry, including barriers to equal access to education, employment, and  health care.  South Asian Americans -- especially those who are Muslim, Hindu, or Sikh -- too often face senseless violence and harassment due only to the color of their skin or the tenets of their faith.  And to this day, many AAPIs continue to live in the shadows and are separated from their families due to our broken immigration system.

My Administration is committed to addressing these unmet needs and the ugly discrimination that still exists.  I was proud to re-establish the White House Initiative on AAPIs soon after I took office, to foster opportunities for increased access to and involvement in Federal programs.  As part of that effort, my Administration is expanding its regional network of Federal leaders and hosting community meetings across the country to better understand the needs of the diverse AAPI community.  Last year, I announced my intent to take actions that would allow more high-skilled immigrants, graduates, and entrepreneurs to stay and contribute to our economy, and I continue to call on the Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform.  To highlight the tremendous growth of the AAPI community and my Administration's commitment to increasing opportunity for AAPIs everywhere, this month we will host the White House Summit on AAPIs -- an unprecedented and historic all-day convening of senior Federal officials and community leaders from across the country.

As we commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we pay tribute to all those in the AAPI community who have striven for a brighter future for the next generation.  Together, let us recommit to embracing the diversity that enriches our Nation and to ensuring all our people have an equal chance to succeed in the country we love.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2015 as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.  I call upon all Americans to visit www.WhiteHouse.gov/AAPI to learn more about our efforts on behalf of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, and to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

BARACK OBAMA

IT'S THE MOUNT RAINIER DAY FESTIVAL IN MOUNT RAINIER TODAY!

This day has been coming for an entire YEAR, and it is finally HERE!

Here is what is in store for you today:

A PARADE featuring two of our area's marching bands; dignitaries from across the Prince George's County; at least one dog club; police cars; horses; fire engines and a whole lot more!  LINE UP FOR THE PARADE is at 9:30am at 22nd and Varnum Streets in the parking lot across from NEW HORIZON BAPTIST CHURCH!

THE PARADE ROUTE:  Leaving the parking lot turning left on Varnum to Russell Avenue to Upshur to Rainier Avenue to 34th Street through the Circle down 34th Street past NEWTON APARTMENTS to 37th Avenue across Rhode Island Avenue into the Bunker Hill Fire Station.

VENDORS from across the region providing an assortment of foods, information, jewelry, and other items for you to view, purchase and/or sample!

The NATURE CENTER will have some of our natural animals and other sights for you to enjoy.

There is NEVER ENDING ENTERTAINMENT (all free) for the children including moon bounce, a video truck, cotton candy, face painting, skate mobile, and a lot of other things that will bring a smile to most children's face!

Back on popular demand will be bands from across the region playing music from almost every genre throughout the day.

BUS/VAN Service is available throughout the day to pick you up and take you back to locations throughout MOUNT RAINIER!  The bus route starts at NEWTON APARTMENTS down 34th Street through the CIRCLE to QUEENSTOWN APARTMENTS, down Queens Chapel Road to RAINIER MANOR, back to QUEENS CHAPEL ROAD to QUEENS MANOR, down Arundel Road to Russell Avenue Avenue to KAYWOOD APARTMENTS, and then down Eastern Avenue tack to NEWTON APARTMENTS.  This will be the route through out the day.  

This is just a sample of what to expect today at the MOUNT RAINIER DAY FESTIVAL!

COME OUT AND BRING YOUR FAMILY, NEIGHBORS, AND FRIENDS!  Hope to see your there between 9:30am and 6:00pm TODAY, May 16, 2015!

Meet the new Councilwoman for District 2, Councilmember Deni Taveras!

She has been on the job now for about five months, and she has hit the ground running.  She took a few minutes out of her busy day to talk with me about her goals and plans for District 2.  Take a few minutes and check out what she had to say.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5y7uNra8Lok

You can watch other programs of "On Air With the Mayor" on Verizon channel 21, and on Comcast/Xfinity 71.  Let me know other topics that you would like to see on our cable channels.

There are a lot of bikers in Mount Rainier. I invite and encourage participation in this activity.

Say Hi to AWS at the Port Towns Pit Stop on Bike to Work Day!

Bike to Work Day is next Friday, May 15 and we are excited to be part of the first ever Pitstop in the Port Towns!  See a map of the stop here where it sits on Northeast Branch Trail in Prince George's County just outside the district. 

Register here and come and visit us and our friends from Community Forklift, Eco-City Farms, and the Edmonston Green Team who are co-hosting. We will have refreshments, raffle prizes, music and more!

GOSH DARN!  I need my bike fixed so that I can ride it.  What a great way to exercise.  Maybe we can have a BIKE TO SCHOOL DAY for our KIDS in MOUNT RAINIER.  ANY VOLUNTEERS TO COORDINATE such an effort?

Mount Rainier's City Council Passes the Land Development Agreement (LDA) that will allow the redevelopment of 3200 Rhode Island Avenue to move forward!

Although I do not have a picture of my own of the meeting of this current council, I must say that their faces, their contributions, and their love of Mount Rainier, Maryland​ will forever be a part of my love of the men and women in this great City.

Tonight, Councillmember Brent Bolin, Bryan Knedler, Jesse Christopehrson, and Jacqlyn Witmer Riposo​ voted to pass the City's budget for 2016, and the long awaited Land Development Agreement (LDA) that will move the City toward development of the corner of Rhode Island and Eastern Avenue.  Lots of other business was addressed, but these were the two most significant pieces of the evening. 

Thank you Council, and now LET'S MOVE our agenda forward.

Brent Bolin, best wishes for your continued success in your endeavors, and please stay involved.

Jacqlyn Riposo best wishes to you, and best wishes for your continued success, and future role in municipal government!

THE ELECTION IS OVER!

Under the professional and talented leadership of the Mount Rainier Board of Elections, the 2015 Mount Rainier Election came to an end with the election of three new Councilmembers-elect!  The un-certified votes shw the re-election of Councilmember Bryan Knedler, the new election of Councilmembers Tracy Loh Ward 1 and new Councilmember-elect Savali Shah Ward 2.    THANK YOU TO ALL RESIDENTS WHO CAME OUT TO VOTE!  THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE CANDIDATES WHO PUT THEMSELVES OUT THERE UNDER PUBLIC SCRUTINY TO SERVE OUR CITY!  All of you showed your civic pride.

VOTING IN MOUNT RAINIER STARTED at 7:00am this MORNING, May 4, 2015

This is when you get to voice your opinion in the City's election for YOUR WARD.  There are two wards in Mount Rainier, and you get to ELECT WHO REPRESENTS YOU ON THE MOUNT RAINIER CITY COUNCIL!

Please exercise your right to vote for your Council representative TODAY.  The election is being held at ONE MUNICIPAL PLACE, MOUNT RAINIER, MARYLAND 201712 (Across from Chuck's Liquors at the BUS TERMINAL).

The Mount Rainier Board of Elections is WAITING TO GREET YOU!

The polls close at 8:00pm today.

JUST SAYING...

I live in a City where I am continually amazed, especially when it comes to people and elections.  I have heard for years that people are not interested in running.  Residents do not come out to vote.

This year, we actually have five (5) candidates interested in the three vacancies.  Some of them actually made the deadline to file on time April 6.  However, because some wise people wrote our City Charter, it allows for write-in candidates.  We have write-in candidates, but it seems that they are being barred on every turn, from FULL participation in the process.

They have not been allowed to participate in City Sponsored Forums.  Nothing in the Charter forbids participation in the forum.  Ooops, the Charter does not even require a candidates forums!  So even  candidates that meet the filing deadline DO NOT HAVE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FORUMS!  The forum are for the purpose of residents being able to hear the views of all candidates choosing to participate in the forums.  They are set up by the Mount Rainier Board of Elections, and RUN by its members!  As such "all" candidates for any election in Mount Rainier should be open to all candidates.

Then there is that whole issue of elected officials behind the scene politics by throwing their support to candidates, for example:

F    Writing endorsements

F    Hosting meet and greets

F    Taking potential candidate to hang out with the Chief of Police for two or more hours

F    Requesting information to make sure that their candidates have the inside track on things

F    Trying to appear neutral when there has been no neutrality

Well, when you play the same old politics every time, it is hard to gain and keep the public trust.  No wonder only about 500 of the 4,300 voters in Mount Rainier ever bothers to come out to vote in an election.  I have heard most, if not all of the reasons for the low turnout, including the one that says, “APARTMENT DWELLERS DO NOT VOT”E.  Well, you CANNOT vote if you do not know where the election is being held.  

Apartment residents are all transients, and do not have a vested interest in the City.  Now, that is the biggest crock of bull I have ever heard.  Many of the residents living in apartments in Mount Rainier have been here longer than many of the homeowners, and many of them vote in federal and state elections.  Check the records.  For many years little or no effort was put into notifying ALL registered voters of the upcoming City elections.

There are more than 900 single family homes in Mount Rainier, and most of them have more than two voting age adults living in them.  Based on simple math that is about 1,800 potential voters that do not live in apartments, and we still can only count about 500 votes in most of our elections.  

Then there are those who throw rocks at those who run and/or hold office, yet they have NEVER put themselves out there, and probably never will.  They are the side line quarterbacks who can't ever find anything good to say about anything that has ever been or will be done, and still have all of the answers.  Oh yes, they also only support persons like themselves, especially, if they are doing what they want them to do.  They also feel that they are entitled to say, do, write, and put out any and all information on and about any given subject.  They are the experts, and definitely have all of the answers.

My answer.  The election was and still is open to every resident in this City that meets the qualifications spelled out by the Charter of this City.  YOU TOO CAN BE A WRITE IN CANDIDATE!

If you are not willing to take the heat, stay out of the kitchen.  Every single candidate opens him or herself up for scrutiny.  They are willing to take the heat.  So let's be fair.  Let's play fair.  In our democracy every American citizen has the right to participate in our political process, and still be treated with dignity and fairness.  NO ONE should be left out of the game, made to feel badly or be treated unfairly.  No one has a lockdown on how to best get something done in this City or anywhere else for that matter.  A collaborative effort has and will continue to move our City forward OR we can bring our pass progress to a screeching halt by going to our own private corners and fighting to the death what we want rather than what is best for this City, MOUNT RAINIER MARYLAND.

I hope all of the 4,300+ registered voters in this City will come out on Monday and let their voices be heard.  I hope that those that get elected will have a "CITY" agenda rather than their own "PERSONAL" agenda.

Good luck to all of the candidates, and may the BEST PERSONS be selected for the current vacancies on our City Council.  Thank you all for running.

EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE.  THE ELECTION IS MONDAY, MAY 4, 2015!

MOUNT RAINIER’S CITY ELECTIONS

Monday, May 4, 2015

MOUNT RAINIER ‘S CITY HALL

ONE MUNICIPAL PLACE

(The bus terminal on Rhode Island Avenue across from Chuck’s Liquors)

MOUNT RAINIER, MARYLAND 20712

POLS are open at 7:00am.  You can vote before you go to work.

POLLS will close at 8:00pm.  You can vote during your lunch hour and after you get off work.

There is an ELECTION in MOUNT RAINIER, MD, Monday, May 4, 2015

Another whirlwind day.  Meetings, meetings, meetings, but lots got accomplished or started.  Emergency preparedness took up a lot of my day.  We all sit back and shake our heads and talk about what could have been done, what should have been done, and who should have done it.  In small cities and towns, the same issues exist, and the same issues, mostly go unnoticed and un-addressed until the lid blows off.  Then we are up in arms.  Then we want to be heard.

There is an election in Mount Rainier.  The election date is May 4, 2015.  Not all of us can run for office, but 4,300+ of us can come out to the polls and vote for the candidates that we believe best represent us, our concerns, and our community.  In many of the previous elections held in this City (MOUNT RAINIER), less than 600 people CARED enough to come out to MOUNT RAINIER CITY HALL (POTTS BUILDING at one time, old fire station at other times) to cast their votes.

TRUE, visibility, communications, and information about the CITY ELECTION was limited at best, but IF YOU LIVE HERE, you have a duty and a responsibility to know certain basic things INCLUDING YOUR RIGHT TO HAVE A VOICE in your local government.  NO, voting at MOUNT RAINIER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL or THOMAS STONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL was not voting in a MUNICIPAL ELECTION.  YOU HAVE NOT BEEN HEARD, and yes, people count on YOU NOT BEING HEARD especially, if you live in the apartments, Queens Manor, Kaywood, Queenstown, Arundel Apartments, and all of the other smaller apartments in the City.

This year, at least 4,300+ notices were sent to each registered voter in the City of Mount Rainier, Maryland.  You should have received your notice of the election last week.  It has YOUR NAME on it.  It has the VOTING INFORMATION on it.  IT HAS THE LOCATION OF THE ELECTION as well as the hours of the election. 

VOTING TAKES ONLY A FEW MINUTES.  Those elected will be in office for two to four years!  They will determine the services you get -- tax increases; police coverage; trash collection; code enforcement; parking, and yes a whole lot more!

In the past 40 years, I have heard almost every reason under the sun why people do not vote.  I have also had to listen to how unfair the system is; how our police officers do not respond; why trash cans and trash removal in the City is so archaic; how street repairs are needed; and the list goes on and on.  Your opportunity to lend your voice and to hold someone accountable for responding to YOU is when you participate in the election process.

No change does not come overnight.  No one person cannot do it by him or herself, BUT ask the person who lost an election by one vote!  Ask the person who almost won a million dollars, but missed it by one number!  YOUR VOTE COUNTS!  YOUR VOICE COUNTS!  You can be a part of those working to change our City – MOUNT RAINIER, MARYLAND in a positive manner or you can continue to sit on the sideline and see what happens next.

IT IS YOUR CALL.  There are committees in the City that COULD BENEFIT from your knowledge, experience and expertise.  Those elected do not know that you have the skills they need because YOU HAVE NOT YET stepped forward.  Remember, the best way to bring about change is to be a change agent and part of the change YOU WANT TO SEE HAPPEN in YOUR COMMUNITY.

VOTE, MONDAY, May 4, 2015.  This is an exciting time, and you have the opportunity to participate in this election.  Yes, you have to go to work, and I hope that all of you have jobs.  HOWEVER, the polls are open at 7:00am and they do not close until 8:00pm.  There is time to make your voice heard and YOUR VOTE COUNT!

TODAY IS THE DAY TO LET YOUR VOICE BE HEARD ON THE 15% PROPOSED TAX INCREASE!

Arneice Williams just posted an update on the petition you signed, Rushern Baker, 7th County Executive, PG County: We the residents of PG County are against the 15% property tax increase proposed by the County Executive.

Hearing Will Be Held TODAY!!!!! Apr 27, 2015 — Hello All!! Let's get as many signatures as we can before 3:00PM tomorrow, a hearing will take place tomorrow 7:00PM, at the County Administration Building, 2nd Floor 14741.

The Mount Rainier Election Board is moving our ELECTION Forward

I have never been so proud to live in Mount Rainier than I have the last few weeks as I watch this election move forward!

Our Election Board is HOT!

They are on target.

They are reaching out!

They have a new VIDEO.

Check it out.  You may have to copy and paste, but it is WORTH IT!

Congratulations on a job well done.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFE_0Umq8Co&feature=youtu.be

A Brief Walk Through Mount Rainier, MD

Sometimes residents wonder about where they live.  Yes, you live in Prince George's County.  Yes, you live in the State of Maryland.  HOWEVER, if you live in Mount Rainier, Maryland, you live in a MUNICIPALITY!

The following PowerPoint will help you learn a little about Mount Rainier, and walk you through some of the facts about our wonderful City!

https://bn1-broadcast.officeapps.live.com/m/Broadcast.aspx?Fi=c088a9df9d1fd1c1%5Ffd92a942%2D51c8%2D472c%2D93c8%2D311e085aa74a%2Epptx

How hard do you think it is to do business in Prince George's County?

 Here is your opportunity to be heard, and voice your opinions about how all of that can be changed.

MARK your calendars and plan to attend this  discussion on April 29, 2015 at 10:00am.

http://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MDPGC/2015/04/14/file_attachments/381456/2015-04-29%2BDisparity%2BStudy%2BPublic%2BMeeting%2BNotice%2BApril.pdf　

Business owners are invited to provide comments about their experiences doing business or attempting to do business with Prince George’s County (County). The primary objective is to assess, quantify, and evaluate the prevalence, magnitude, and extent of marketplace discrimination, if any, against minority, and women business enterprises (M/WBE), and County-Based business enterprises (CBBE). Your participation is critical to address potential modifications to the County’s current M/W/CBBE programs. The Disparity Study will examine the procurement of construction, services, and products; the subcontracting practices of prime contractors/service provid-ers who do business with the County and in the private sector. For more information on the disparity study’s objectives and tasks visit www.princegeorgescountydisparity.com. 

SOUTHERN REGIONAL TECHNOLOGY
AND RECREATION COMPLEX
 MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM
 7007 BOCK ROAD
 FORT WASHINGTON, MD 20744
 FREE PARKING
 PUBLIC FORUM
 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015
10:00 – 12:00 A.M.
(INFORMATIONAL)
 PUBLIC HEARING
 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29, 2015
2:00 – 4:00 P.M.
(COLLECT ANECDOTAL TESTIMONIES) 

 Individuals or business owners with questions or comments about the study can contact: Vernetta Mitchell, MGT of America, Inc.at
princegeorgescountydisparity@mgtamer.com or (704) 531-4098. 

NEED A VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY? Check this one out.

Volunteer opportunity.........WMATA NCR Exercise your help is requested

From:   French, Delisa

10:31 AM (3 hours ago)

Subject: WMATA NCR Exercise your help is requested

Good day to all;

The above attachments refer to the information below; we need more than 200 volunteers to participate in this exercise as victims.  I am asking for your support through your commitment, participation and by bringing at least two people with you.  Your support and effort in this matter would make this event a noble success!  Please use the information below to register.

 Date: April 19, 2015, WMATA National Capitol Region full-scale exercise

Location: Greenbelt Metro Station - 5717 Greenbelt Metro Drive, Greenbelt, MD 220740

Registration: 7:00 AM

Exercise: 8:00-3:00 PM

Registration: https://wmatafullscaleexcercise.eventbrite.com

Registration for this exercise will close on April 13, 2015

Parking, lunch and refreshments will be provided, students will receive student service hours.

Exercise Overview

Using the framework of the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP), WMATA is conducting a series of exercises designed to address critical components of the National Capital Region (NCR) transportation network.

Your participation will assist with identifying areas of concerns and needed improvement.

Please subscribe to the Prince Georges County CERT Calendar for training and info:

webcal://ics.teamup.com/feed/kse9154abf33aec06b/771520.ics

Sincerely

James Morrow

Volunteer Services Coordinator

Office of Homeland Security

14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, L-23

Upper Marlboro, Maryland  20772

(301) 780-8255 Direct

(240)-786-8714 Cell

(301) 780-8260 Fax

Follow us on Social Media:

Prince George’s County CERT

Prince George’s County OEM

Prince George’s County OEM

Senior Housing Available

Senior Housing Available

Rainier Manor currently has one bedroom apartment homes for seniors, 62+.

One occupant must meet the age criteria any secondary occupants can be any age.

NOTE:  Criminal background check, credit check, and income verification not to exceed $44,680 are a must.

One bedroom apartment homes are renting for $1153 per month and the resident must pay electric.

The office is open Monday - Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday by appointment.

CONTACT:  Charmaine Jefferson, Community Manager  (on premises this Saturday, April 4, 2015)
Rainier Manor
A thriving community managed by Humphrey Management

3001 Queens Chapel Rd., Mt. Rainier, MD 20712
Direct:  (301) 699-9795 Fax:  (301) 699-1320
Visit Humphrey Management Online

Humphrey Management manages over 50 conventional  and affordable communities for families, individuals and seniors.  Over 10,000 incredible members of the Humphrey Family call one of our communities home.

MRBA SPONSORS FIRST CANDIDATES' FORUM FOR MAY 4 ELECTION

Mount Rainier Businesses, Neighbors, and Friends,

The Mount Rainier Business Association (MRBA) will be hosting a candidates’ forum on April 8th at 7:00 pm at the Mediterranean Café, 3237 Rhode Island Avenue.

All are invited to attend and meet the candidates running for the Mount Rainier City Council seats in the May 4th election. Mediterranean Café is offering a 15% discount on all orders for the evening. Following a mix and mingle, and introductions, there will be a Q & A session. If you have questions that you would like to be considered, please submit them 

to info@mountrainierbusiness.com no later than April 6th at 5:00 pm. Questions should not be directed at a single candidate. We do not guarantee that all will be included, but we will make every effort to do so.

See you there and looking forward to a lively discussion!