RE-ELECT MALINDA MILES AS YOUR MAYOR

I am running for Re-ELECTION as your Mayor. I hope that you will vote for me on Monday, May 4, 2009. The Election will be held at Mount Rainier's City Hall, at One Municipal Place. Voting will start at 7:00am and will continue until 8:00pm.

If you voted in the last Presidential Election, you are registered and eligible to vote in Mount Rainier's City Elections. If you are NOT registered to Vote, you may register to vote in this election no later than April 2, 2009.

Here is voter registration information that you can use to register to vote.

Voter Registration Requirements for VOTING in Prince George's County/Mount Rainier MD

You must be:

A citizen of the United States.
Eighteen on or before the Election.
A resident of Mount Rainier, Prince George's County.
Not have been convicted of a felony, or if you have, you have completed serving a court ordered sentence of imprisonment, including any term of parole or probation for the conviction.
Not under guardianship for mental disability.

When to Register

21 days prior to any election (April 13, 2009).
11 days after any election.

Where and How to Register
Online -- You can download an Adobe Acrobat version of the voter registration form from the Maryland State Board of Elections at www.elections.state.md.us./citizens/registration/index.html

In Person -- The Motor Vehicle Administration, 10251 Central Avenue, Largo, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The Motor Vehicle Administration, 11760 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The Board of Elections, 16201 Trade Zone Avenue, Suite 108, Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20774, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

By Mail -- Prince George's County Board of Elections, 16201 Trade Zone Avenue, Suite 108, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774


In School -- Each year the Board of Elections, in cooperation with the Prince George's Board of Education, conducts voter registration in every county high school.

Voter's Registration Data
Within two weeks of registration or a change in address, name or party affiliation, you should receive a Voter's Notification Card by mail. This card lists your polling place and the various districts (congressional, legislative, and councilmanic) in which your residence is located. Please save this card for reference.

If you do not receive your Voter's Notification Card within two weeks, please call the Board of Elections at 30... .

HEALTH CARE FOR UNINSURED
Atencion Medica a Personas sin Seguro Medico

The Governor’s Wellmobile, a University of Maryland, El Wellmobile de la Universidad de Maryland
School of Nursing, Mobile Medical Unit is on site in es una Clínica Médica Ambulante que llega al
Prince George’s & Montgomery Counties to provide area de Prince George’s y Montgomery para proveer
primary medical care, health services and medical atención medica a quienes no tienen seguro médico
referrals to Uninsured.

Monday/Lunes Tuesday/Martes Wednesday/Miercoles Thursday/Jueves Friday/Viernes

Deerfield Run Elementary
13000 Laurel-Bowie Road
Laurel, MD 20708
1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 1er Lunes de cada mes y 3er Lunes de cada mes
9 AM to 3 PM


Spring Hill Elementary School
6060 Springhill Drive
Greenbelt, MD 20770
2nd and 4th Monday of the month, 2do Lunes de cada mes y 4to Lunes de cada mes
9 AM to 3 PM
____________________________

CALL VANESSA ROBERTS
1-866-228-9668 FOR APPOINTMENTS Cool Springs Elementary

8910 Riggs Road,
Adelphi, MD 20783
Every Tuesday
Cada Martes
9 AM to 3 PM

_________________
CALL
VANESSA ROBERTS
1-866-228-9668 FOR APPOINTMENTS Adventist Church
Iglesia Adventista

8400 Carroll Avenue
Takoma Park, MD 20912

Every Wednesday
Cada Miércoles
9 AM to 3 PM

CALL
VANESSA ROBERTS
1-866-228-9668 FOR APPOINTMENTS Bladensburg Elementary
4915 Annapolis Road. Bladensburg, MD 20710
2nd and 4th Thursday of the month, 2do Jueves de cada mes y 4to Jueves de cada mes
1 PM to 7 PM
__________________________

Shining Star Missionary Church
5741 Martin Luther King, Jr. Hwy
Seat Pleasant, MD 20743
1st and 3rd Thursday of the month, 1er Lunes de cada mes y 3er Lunes de cada mes
11 AM to 3 PM

CALL VANESSA ROBERTS
1-866-228-9668 FOR APPOINTMENTS OFFICE

(CALL VANESSA ROBERTS
1-866-228-9668
FOR APPOINTMENT)

FOR APPOINTMENTS - CALL VANESSA ROBERTS @ 1-866-228-9668 - LEAVE MESSAGE
The Wellmobile Provides Healthcare for the Uninsured
Nurse Practitioners see patients and take care of their medical problems and Social Workers provide linkages and referrals to needed services

Services:
Sick visits
Full physical exams, including school and sports physicals
Simple screenings, including blood pressure and vision
Female exams and pap smears
Men’s exams

Referrals for:
Primary care providers
Emergency services
Assistance with applications for governmental assistance and health insurance

Am I Eligible for Services?
You are eligible for services if you:
Do not have medical insurance
Are not covered by Medicare or Medicaid
Have insurance with limited coverage or high deductible
Do not qualify for other state and federal healthcare programs

El Wellmobile proporciona asistencia medica para los no asegurados
Enfermeras Avanzadas prestan sus servicios para cuidar de sus problemas medicos y Trabajadores Sociales para establecer vinculos y referencias a servicios necesarios

Servicios:
Visitas por enfermedad
Examenes fisicos completos, incluyendo examenes
Fisicos requeridos por las escuelas y examenes fisicos de deportes
Examenes basicos, incluyendo presion arterial y vision
Examenes femeninos y pruebas de papanicolaou
Examenes para hombres y ninos tambien

Referencias Para:
Centors de atencion primaria
Los servicios de emergencia
Asistencia con las solicitudes del govierno y seguros de salud

Estoy Elegible por Servicios?
Usted es elegible para los servicios se usted:
No tiene seguro medico
No esta cubierto por Medicare o Medicaid
Tiene un seguro con cobertura limitada o un deducible alto
No califica para otros servicios estatales y/o federales para la atencion de la salud

BUDGET WORK SESSION

AGENDA

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2009

COUNCIL CHAMBERS, UPPER LEVEL

FISCAL YEAR 2010 PROPOSED BUDGET

PRESENTATION BY CITY MANAGER

ELECTION BOARD MEMBERS NEEDED FOR MOUNT RAINIER ELECTION

At a regular meeting of the Mayor and Council on March 3, 2009, Resolution 2-2009 was passed appointing members to the City of Mount Rainier Board of Elections for a two year term. The next city election is scheduled for May 4, 2009 at City Hall. The polls will be open 7:00 am until 8:00 pm on Election Day. You may be required to work one other day on April 6, 2009 which is the candidate filing deadline date and all candidates running for election or re-election are certified.

Election judges are paid a stipend of $100 for each day worked (usually 1 or 2 days) and reimbursed for food purchased on Election Day which is usually a 13-14 hour day. If you are interested please contact the City Manager at City Hall at 301-985-6585 or notify either the Mayor or one of the council members. Contact information is available on the city’s website at www.mountrainiermd.org.

Greeting residents of Mount Rainier Maryland.

It has been four years since I campaigned and asked for your vote to elect me as Mayor of our City. Although it seems like yesterday, it is that time again, and I am writing to ask you to allow me to represent our City another four years.

What have I done during the past four years you might ask, and that is a very fair question. So, listed below are a few highlights that I believe has happened in our City since you elected me as your Mayor.

1. Your Mayor and Council has acted in a professional manner. There has been disagreements over various issues, but through it all your Mayor and Council remained professional. We debated the issues in the public forum. We did our homework by researching the issues, turning to the experts, and following the will of the people. We set the tone for behavior at our Council meetings, and you our residents acted accordingly.

2. Your Mayor and Council increased the flow of revenue in the City from difference sources of funding. We went after grants and partnerships that benefitted our community. Our partnership include two MOU with the Town of Brentwood for a regular police officer and a community police officer. This partnership in particular allowed our police officers to cross borders to follow and stop crime running in and out of our City. A few major arrests were made that increased the safety of our citizens and those in Brentwood without any additional cost to the City. This partnership also resulted in the increase of police officers for Mount Rainier that resulted in a high net return from the State of Maryland on the number of officers working in our police department. It also resulted in an increase in the City's budget by Brentwood paying for our services through a Community Legacy Grant ($90,000 and $70,000)from the County, and the Town of Brentwood voting to allow the City to provide one full time officer exclusively for their community. This partnership also resulted in two new police cars to patrol our streets that did not come out of the City's coffers.

3. The City has had high visibility from Governors, Lieutenant Governors, our delegates, and other legislators as well as from the media. Mount Rainier has become a destination for many who are seeking homes, entertainment, and just a day away from home. This is not at the level the Mayor and Council would like, but it certainly does not feel bad to be one of the best places to live in the Washington area. Need improvements? Absolutely, and the Mayor and Council are geared up and working constantly to keep this momentum up. To bring visitors to our City we are participating in the Maryland Municipal League's Geocaching program. If you have not heard about it you will hear more over the next few months. It is a cool way to get visitors to come and shop at our stores, and visit our City as they search for hidden treasures and seek to win a very prestigious medal that is numbered and registered at MML.

4. The City has been represented at each of the Legislative session on legislation that was of importance to the City for grants, bonds, public safety and a host of other legislation. This representation is important, if we are to compete with other municipalities for the scarce dollars that become available through those sources. Our delegates need to know what we want, what we need, and our help in telling the story to other delegations. Your Mayor has been active and visible, at home, at the County, in the State and with our Federal delegation. Meetings have been attended, letters have been written, telephone calls made, and emails sent as needed to ensure Mount Rainier's place at the table.

5. Recreation was also one of the winners during the past four years. Residents asked for and your Mayor and Council dug deep and came up with resources to make recreation a priority in this City. Basketball came back. The children continue to show their appreciation by being on the new court almost every day. They are not hanging out on the apartment stoops and value police time is not being used as often to chase them away. The skate park is not up and in use and the Mayor and Council had hoped, but valuable hours have gone into making this a reality. The Mayor and Council continue to work with Maryland National Capital Park and Planning to get the $175,000 spent for the park, and because of the diligence, the park should be completed by September, but no later than December. Summer programs and after school programs have been ongoing and increasing.

6. The City has won at least three additional awards for its creative approaches. The City won an award for the Tool Shed that provides residents with tools to use without having to purchase them for that one time use. The City won an award for its Bicycle Coop that provides youths and residents of all ages an opportunity to own a bike, learn how to fix them and use them to reduce the use of cars on our City streets. The City also won the Banner City award two years in a row for its ability to promote itself through meetings, networking, and attendance at various events. The City did not get the award, but for the first time in our history, the students at Thomas Stone Elementary won first, second, and third place in the "If I Were Mayor Contest for District 9. This program was promoted by the Mayor and Council in our two elementary schools with the fourth grade classes. This is an honor because the City gets the publicity for good schools, interested municipal officials, and newspaper coverage.

7. Better communication at all levels. There continue to be a vacuum in communication, but it is getting smaller every day. Every available resource is being used to help our residents know what is going on in the City. We use our two public channels (Verizon and Comcast) to provide up to date news about what is happening in the City; our website to provide information about the rules and regulations governing our City as well as other information that can be used to help our residents. In addition, the City publishes monthly its Newsletter that is distributed throughout the City at a cost of about $8,000. The City has reached out to businesses, and community groups to provide information. The Mayor and Council continue to look for avenues to increase citizen awareness and participation.

8. As in any community public safety continue to be high on the list. Since taking office, the City's police force has gone from 12 to 18; the Chief of Police is in almost everyone's ' living room with useful tips on safety, the Chief's Blog, and Chats with the Chief. Although not yet transparent, our police department has moved into the twenty-first century with information sharing with our residents. The hours of operation have also been increased to better coincide with our downtown needs. Mutual agreements have been worked out with some of our businesses to curb the sale of alcohol, and as was noted by one of my colleagues, the number of places that sale alcoholic beverages has been cut in half. Patrols are regular and visibility of our officers is at its highest in 40 years. Residents feel safe and a part of the City's public safety program.

9. The City's financial situation has improved drastically over the past four years. When I returned to the Council, the City was spending upward to $30,000 to get its audit done. The audit t was more than 18 months past due. The State was hounding us for continuing to be late, and our financial state was anybody's guess. Working with the Mayor and Council we hired a few people to get our books in order without immediate success. However, the Mayor and Council took a leap of faith and expended the money necessary to hire a real financial person to handle the City's financial affairs, and today, our audit cost less than $15,000, and is usually done within one month, and always filed with the State in a timely manner. Our finances are in order! Revenue and expenditures are adequately documented, and easily accessible to all. Our financial standing is good in the financial community. Because of our improved financial standing, the City was able to raise the funds to purchase the old Bass building, and will soon raise it for future development. The City's coffers are not running over with funds, but we were able to reach out and help some of our seniors and others by giving a tax credit for two years in a row. The tax credits did not exceed $15,000 total, but meant a lot to those who received them.

10. The staff of the City was placed in better financial standing through increases in raises, health benefits and retirement benefits. Some of the major complaints of staff prior to this Mayor and Council was the inaccuracies in their pay checks, the lateness in the payment of their benefits, the quality of the benefits that were offered by the City, and the frequent lateness of payroll. This Mayor and Council has been diligent in making sure that these complaints were addressed and corrected. Payroll is on time, and is accurate. Health care and pension benefits have been greatly increased. Disparities in wages have been aggressively been dealt with and corrected. Personnel and have written guidelines to follow, and are treated with decency and respect by Mayor and Council. Because of these changes our turnover has been reduced, injuries on the job are fewer, call outs are lower and because of these changes, our insurance rates have gone down helping with our financial bottom-line. With better financial management in place the City has been able to take on and overcome challenges that in the past had kept us from moving forward.

There are lots of other improvements and changes that have occurred over the past four years that can be seen in our City. These changes came about because you have a GOOD Mayor and Council in place. Men and women that are not only residents of the City, but leaders with a vision.

I have been and continue to be proud of this Council, and would appreciate greatly the opportunity to continue to work with them. Being Mayor is a challenging job. There are NO special perks. I only get one vote. I cannot veto or override any decision of the Council, and I don't have special dispensation to run the staff. The only differences between the Mayor and other Councilmembers is that the Mayor gets to run the meetings and call special meetings as necessary. Well there is one other difference, the Mayor is paid $6,800 a year, about $2,000 more than the Councilmembers. Outside of those differences, we are the same under our Charter. Any three (3) votes of the Mayor and Council passes or defeat a motion or an action.

Make no mistake, under this Council I have been given the privilege of attending to and addressing most issues on behalf of the Council, but that is because, I believe, the working relationship that we have established. There is a level of trust that exist, and has been continuously nurtured. Even when we do not see eye-to-eye, we respect the other person's position and views. We have managed to eliminate name calling and profanity. We have been able to share the authority that you the people have given us to run and manage our City using our skills and expertise. This is a different approach to government, but it has worked for us in Mount Rainier, and I am asking for another term of office to represent you and this "great" City.

City elections will be held on the first Monday in May at the Mount Rainier City Hall. You are encouraged to come out and vote. If you are not registered to vote, you may get voting information at http://elections.state.md.us/voter_registration/application.html. You must be registered by close of business on or before April 3, 2009. If you voted in the last November's election for President Barack Obama, you are registered to vote in Mount Rainier's City election.

I surely hope that you will vote, and that you will vote for me as your Mayor.

Malinda Miles
Mayor
Mount Rainier Maryland

PGCMA RECEPTION Feb 16, 2009

Please join PGCMA in Annapolis for its annual Legislative Reception on Monday February 16 (the sixteenth) at 6:00pm on the first floor of the Miller Senate Office Building. The address is 11 Bladen St, Annapolis MD 21401.

Parking is free after 6pm at the Calvert St garage and it's a short walk across the street. Or park at the Visitors Center at West & Calvert for a small fee. To find the entrance to the Miller Building, stand with your back to the front doors of the Capitol and walk straight ahead maybe 500 feet down the left side of the street. Session begins at 8pm on Monday nights so stay for the fun! See you there!

MEET THE GOVERNOR Feb 11, 2009

For more information on the event, contact Ashley's office at 410-974-5024. YOU MUST REGISTER AT 6PM IF YOU WANT TO ASK QUESTIONS.

Prince George’s County Elected Officials: Please see the attached invitation to attend the Governor’s Town Hall meeting in Prince George ’s County Wednesday (February 11, 2009) evening, 6:30pm at Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School. Please feel free to forward this invite to your friends, family, colleagues, and constituents in your area. We are expecting a large crowd, and the entire cabinet will be on hand to assist citizens with the various government programs the state has to offer. Thank you very much and please let me know if you have questions. Best, Ashley Ashley R. Valis Intergovernmental Affairs Office of Governor Martin O’Malley 100 State Circle Annapolis , MD 21401 410-974-5024 Office 443-336-2800Cell avalis@gov.state.md.us

Recapping 2008 with an Eye on 2009

January 24, 2009

The year 2009 has already proven to be a awesome year. We have had extremely cold temperatures, the preparation and swearing in of the 44th President of the United States, Mr. Barack Obama just to mention two of the major events. Another awesome fact has gone unnoticed, but occurred right here at home, in the City of Mount Rainier is another full year of service from its Mayor and Council, staff, committees, and volunteers! Together they have made a major difference in all aspects of life here in Mount Rainier. The Following is a review of some of the major changes here at home during 2008.

1. Our Police Department, under the leadership of Chief Michael Scott, stepped up its policing and public relations through more regular meetings, communications, and visibility in our community. The Police Department extended its hours of operation from 9:00am to 11:00pm to provide better access to our residents, and continued to provide full-time police coverage to our sister municipality, Brentwood. Through this partnership, the leadership of the Chief, and the improved finances of the City, our Police force has been at its highest -- 18 sworn officers, and a civilian force that continues to get high marks.

2. For the second time, property rebates were given out to residents with incomes of $60,000 or less. Mount Rainier's lead in this has led other cities such as Hyattsville to implement the Mount Rainier model of giving back to its most needed residents.

3. Recreation for our youth became a true reality in Mount Rainier with the reinstatement of the basketball court at 30th and Arundel and drop-in basketball at Thomas Stone Elementary, youth bands and programs at Joe's Movement Emporium, after school programs at our schools, successful summer around the City in our churches, businesses, and schools. Mirna Mejia, a Mount Rainier resident brought organized soccer to Mount Rainier, and has now expanded it to 6th and 7th graders. It is called the Mount Rainier Community Soccer Club. Mount Rainier and Brentwood came together to form the Joint Mount Rainier Brentwood Recreation Council to work with Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC).

4. Mount Rainier Day was bigger than ever. We had more vendors, TWO Bands, and dignitaries from Maryland and DC. The major accomplishment announced during Mount Rainier Day was the partnership with the District of Columbia that is moving forward, and should continue to move as we take the Gateway Arts District across the DC line.

5. New Parking meters were installed, and their hours changed to reflect the change in usage and the new hours of our liquor stores and other businesses.

6. Little Friends for Peace continued to demonstrate how to meet and deal with violence while maintaining and keeping peace. Mount Rainier Elementary School once again held its annual Peace Parade to help our children focus on peaceful solutions to problems.

7. Began producing and distributing the Message in Spanish so that our Hispanic neighbors could participate in our City in an informed manner.

8. Mount Rainier Cable Television became a more visible part of our community with the addition of Verizon, and new programs such as "On Air With the Mayor," "News You Can Use," CitiScape," and pictures shown on MRTV during Council meetings and Work Sessions that related to the issue under discussion.

9. Mount Rainier Library received a make-over and eight new computers from the Bill Gates Foundation.

10. The Mount Rainier Bike Coop found a new home at 3601 Bunker Hill Road. This move was in direct response to the growth of the Bike Coop and the need to provide move use of 3601 Bunker Hill Road. The Bike Coop and its members continue to put Mount Rainier on the map with its innovations and youth participation.

11. The Call-A-Bus continues to bring many of our residents to and from their doctors' appointments, shopping, and to City events. It also continues to provide transportation for some of our students to recreation activities and after school care. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 9: am to 3:30 pm. For reservations and additional information, call 301-985-6586.

12. Foreclosures became a major concern for the County and the nation, but Mount Rainier was NOT hit as hard as some of its neighbors. Our housing prices went down, but did not hit rock bottom. Our City finances also took a hit, but we were able to come through the year relatively unscathed.

13. The City began using temporary speed humps to help calm traffic in and around our schools.

14. Senator David Harrington was sworn in as the new Senator for the 47th Legislative District, and hit the ground running with a number of visits to the City of Mount Rainier to introduce himself and to identify our needs. He has continued to make himself available and has taken the lead in working with the municipalities in District 47 to be included in the Federal stimulus package.

15. The City initiated its own program in electronic recycling. Added a new trash truck to its fleet, and grappled with tipping fees, regular recycling, the need to renovate our Public Works Department. Although the City did not increase staffing in this department, it is one of the first departments in the City to increase its staff size through the use of long-term temporary employees from work programs.

16. Mount Rainier once again partnered with Brentwood to observe National Night Out (NNO) at Thomas Stone Elementary School. This annual event had a huge and wonderful turnout, and was proclaimed by many as the largest and best NNO in the County.

17. Mount Rainier began to rebuild its relationship with the Gateway CDC (representing Mount Rainier, Brentwood and North Brentwood), after many years of mistrust and an inability to work together on projects that were beneficial (e.g., the facade program)to Mount Rainier. With the new director in place it appears that Mount Rainier and Gateway CDC will be working together to rebuild trust and partnerships throughout the Gateway Arts District with immediate attention to the facade program on 34th Street.

18. Jodi-Beth McCain led the City through the needed steps to approve a corn co-op at 3601 Bunker Hill Road. Although not yet in operation, the City is looking forward to making the Corn Bin a reality in 2009. This just one more step for the City in its efforts to go green and to save our environment.

19. The City Council voted unanimously in August to purchase the Bass properties in the 3200 block of Rhode Island Ave. for the negotiated price of $953,000 (the appraised value). In December 2008, the Bass property was purchased by the City after the City received a 1.2 million bond from Sun Trust Bank. Currently the City is looking to raise the buildings on the property and convert the lot to parking until it can fine a developer.

20. Finally, Mount Rainier witnessed the largest voter turnout in its history on November 4, 2008. Lines were wrapped around the schools, and people waited patiently to cast their votes. This was a milestone in the City, and contributed to the overwhelming election of Senator Barack Obama as 44th President of the United States of America.

There is change in America, but there is change in Mount Rainier. Our City is growing in population, resources, the number of youth, and the number of seniors. With this growth comes the need for more services. Mayor and Council are beginning the budget process, and we already know that this year there will be major cuts in funds from the State and the County. We also know that there are projects underway that must be funded.

GOALS FOR 2009
1. Pass a balanced budget prior to June 30, 2009

2. Build the skate park prior to November 2009

3. Raise the buildings on the Bass property and build a public/commuter parking lot

4. Identify new sources of funding to supplement current funding stream

5. Install a regular traffic light on Queens Chapel Road, and replace the current walk light

6. Implement and complete the facade program on 34th Street

7. Identify programs that qualify the City for funding under the Federal Stimulus Package

8. Move forward with the development of new library for the citizens of Mount Rainier

9. Continue to build on partnerships with neighboring municipalities, and to collaborate with them on various funding projects

10. Continue to look for ways to expand the City's commercial base

11. Work more closely with the 47th Legislative Team in ensuring the sovereignty of Mount Rainier

12. Identify and bring to Mount Rainier a Federal, State, or County program that services residents in Mount Rainier and in the neighboring municipalities.

13. Continue working with the District of Columbia on the Rhode Island Avenue project that will expand the Gateway Arts District into the District.

14. Improve and the overall financial condition of the City without raising taxes; while increasing and/or improving services.

15. Continue to bring positive recognition to the City of Mount Rainier as we prepare to celebrate our 100th year anniversary.

16. Moving forward in the City's efforts to go green. This is an important movement for the City as we as a nation and part of the global community see the effects of global warming. Recycling is a major stride in the right direction, but we need to do more. For the past few month the Mayor and Council has discussed recycling bins. If you do not have one, select one of your trash cans and place your recyclables in it and set it on the curb on Fridays. Public Works will collect it. We are also discussing many other environmentally friendly projects that will help save our environment.

The Maryland General Assembly is back in session, and you are invited and encouraged to stay in touch with our representatives (Senator David Harrington; Delegates Doyle Neimann, Victor Ramirez, and Jolene Ivey; County Councilman Will Campos). The Governor and everyone else is predicting a very lean year for the State. Cuts will be made to critical programs, but we need to make sure that those who represent us remember that we are an older municipality with limited resources and income. Every dollar they take away from us has a major impact on our future growth and development.

The Limited Partnership with Landmark LLC. This has kind of fizzled. I am not sure where we are at this time. A few months ago, the City received a letter suggesting that the market is so bad that maybe it is a good time to end our contract with them and wait on the market. As noted earlier, the City has purchased the Bass property. Landmark continues to say that their ability to move is contingent on taking control of all of the properties (funeral home, Bass, and Thrifty's). This has been an ongoing dialogue, with no results. The Council is in agreement that we should begin dissolution of the partnership, and seeking other alternatives. More on this during the coming year.

Crime Prevention an Crime Control. This continue to be a high priority, and our Police Department has done and continue to do an excellent job. As we move into the latter half of this fiscal year, we will receive a few additional police vehicles to replace the old ones, and continue to have good maintenance on the old ones. We will strive to maintain our contingency of police officers who are serving our residents at top quality. The station will continue to remain open until midnight to provide additional service to the community.

Planning for 2010 is under way. Mr. William Haskett, the father of one of our residents, has volunteered (pro bono) to write our history from 1985 to present. He is a retired professor from the University of the District of Columbia, and is quite well known in his field. We are honored to have him volunteer to write our history. Many of you will be called upon for your old pictures, news clippings, recollections, and documents. When called, please answer affirmatively so that we can capture the most accurate and up-to-date information about our wonderful City.

Elections are coming up the first Monday in May. Positions up for election are the Mayor, once Councilmember in Ward one and Ward two. Persons interested in running for these positions are encouraged to visit City Hall and obtain a copy of our current election guide. Also request a copy of recent changes voted in by the Mayor and Council at its January meeting. Nomination petitions must be picked up from City Hall and turned in to the Supervisor of Elections sitting at City Hall between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on the first Monday in April. The election will be held the first Monday in May, with those elected being sworn in the following week. Elections are held at the Mount Rainier City Hall from 7:00am until 8:00pm.

Senator David Harrington proposed the formation of an 47th Legislative District Economic Commission to come up with projects that could be implemented within 90 to 120 days after the economic stimulus package is released. The Commission has met several times since its formation and came up with a letter that was sent to President Barack Obama, Governor Martin O'Malley, County Executive Jack Johnson, Congressman Chris Van Hollen, Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara Mikulski as well as the Prince George's County Delegation. The City identified several projects that we believe are shovel ready, and simply in need of funds. More will be coming out on this over the next few months.

As part of its go green effort, the Mayor and Council approved two resolutions in support of green initiatives proposed by the Gateway CDC and Washington Area Community Investment Fund (WACIF). These green initiatives, if funded will provide grants to residents for energy audits, weatherization and rehabilitation for older homes in Mount Rainier, Brentwood and North Brentwood. Corn stoves, solar energy projects, and other similar home improvements would qualify for this program. Initially the program will select up to five homes in the three municipalities to receive the grants based on a specified formula with the goal being that the project would be successful and additional funding would be made available. WACIF has promised to commit up to $200,000 to fund this Green Initiative. Mayor and Council are looking forward to working with the Gateway Community Development Corporation new executive Director Cheryl Derricotte who has attended a number of our Council meetings and the Economic Commission meetings held by Senator Harrington.


VOLUNTEER. Your City Needs YOU!

GeoCaching

The Maryland Municipal League Geocache Trail
Celebrating Maryland’s Cities and Towns.
MML District 9

The trail consists of 11 MML Districts (regions).

The MML Geocache Trail project will launch January 1, 2009 with 78 participating cities and towns. A trackable geo coin will be given to the first 500 geocachers as an incentive for locating at least 2 municipal caches in each of the 11 districts. To be eligible for the coin, geocachers must pick up a Passport at any of the designated county visitor centers. Geocachers must use the stamp in the cache on their Passports and write down the cache code word listed in each cache. After at least two municipal caches in each district are discovered, geocachers may return to one of the county visitor centers and have their Passports validated to receive their collectable coin.

For a complete list of participating visitor centers visit the MML web site at http://www.mdmunicipal.org/mmlhome/index.cfm or MGS web site at www.mdgps.org.

Recorded evidence from the early 18th century indicates that a settlement named Beale Town on the Anacostia River was located on the site that later became Hyattsville. The little outpost never achieved town status, and in 1742, for both economic and topographical reasons, the residents of the hamlet petitioned to have a new town laid out a half mile below Beale Town at Garrisons Landing (which was later named Bladensburg). The legislature granted the petition, and Beale Town ceased to function as a legal entity.

About a hundred years later, in March of 1845, Christopher Clark Hyatt purchased his first parcel of land in the area. The presence of the railroad and telegraph made it ideal for settlement, and soon the surrounding farmland began to be subdivided into housing lots. By 1859, the area had unofficially become known as Hyattsville by the post office and cartographers. The Act of Incorporation of the City of Hyattsville was signed into law in April 1886.

The city grew quickly as both a summer residence for Washingtonians beleaguered by hot and humid weather and as a community of year-round residents. During the mid 20th century, Hyattsville was the center of the commercial and political activities of Prince George’s County. In 1992, a portion of the residential area was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Today, Hyattsville is a thriving suburb enjoying the advantages of a small town. The types of homes cover the spectrum—Victorian mansions, bungalows, foursquares, Tudor cottages, contemporary town homes, and modern apartments. Just as the housing stock is diverse, so too are the backgrounds and interests of Hyattsville’s very active citizenry. Local projects focus on education, art, horticulture, the environment, religion, historic preservation, and business revitalization, just to name few.

The cache is located in a small municipal park in historic downtown Hyattsville, just past the Town Hall and Police Department. This little park has everything a kid would need to have a blast! There are also a couple of covered picnic tables for your use. Be mindful of parking signs and the traffic pattern close to the park. Find a spot to park and walk around town, there are a lot of little shops close by. Enjoy the incredible architecture as you walk through the town. The cache is a large Tupperware container packed with tons of Hyattsville goodies and information. Be aware that you will be in plain view all the time! Enjoy it, and welcome to Hyattsville.

HAPPY THANKSGIVNG TO ALL

November 26, 2008

Today, many of us will gathered together to give thanks to God for all of HIS goodness.

As we give thanks for all that we have been, let us be mindful of those that have little or nothing this holiday season.

As we thank God for our children let, us be mindful of those who do not have children or have loss children.

As we give thanks for our food, let us remember that there are those who will have nothing to eat during this season.

As we thank God for our clothes, let us remember that there are people out in the cold with no clothes and no heat.

As we give thanks to God for giving us eyes to see, ears to hear, mouths to talk, legs to walk, let us remember those who do not have these physical attributes or have lost them in battle for our Country.

Although, we may not have a Mercede in the garage, we may not have the biggest house in the community or the most improved, we may not even have a job come Monday morning, we many not have money in the bank, but we DO have our lives, we DO have our souls, and we DO have you, God, and for that we are THANKFUL.

So during this holiday season, we just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you Lord, for being our God and giving US SO MUCH.

Amen, Amen.

August 12, 2008

Attached to this email and pasted below is my report on issues and items I believe to be important to Mount Rainier and Mount Rainier’s residents. This Report is also on my blog: http://themayorsspot.blogspot.com. (You may need to copy the link and paste it in the URL Address line.)

Summer is almost over, and we are about to enter into the fall of the year. For many of us it is time to start thinking about getting our children back in school, and losing a few extra pounds gained over the summer. I am sure that the coming of fall is a time to do many different things. Below are a few other things that might be appropriate for this time of year.

Appealing your tax assessment

Every property owner has the right to appeal the notice of assessment of his or her property tax assessment within 45 days of the date of the notice. Regular reassessment notices are issued once every three years and usually mailed in late December. In addition to the regular reassessment notice, the law requires a notice be issued when the assessment on a property changes for the following reasons: a change in use or character of the property; substantial improvement to the property; or rezoning of the property.

If you believe your tax assessment is too high, call and set up an appointment to appeal before the deadline (December 31 this year). If not, you will be stuck with paying your property taxes with no recourse. You may also write a letter to your local tax assessment office.

When exercising this right, if feel that you are mistreated or treated unprofessionally, you can the State of Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation at (410) 767-4881 and ask to speak to the Director, C. John Sullivan, Jr. The toll free number is (888) 246-5941.

In addition, the Department of Assessments and Taxation administers a number of property tax relief programs that are specifically designed to provide needed relief to certain groups of property owners. Obtain additional information about these programs by calling the Department's Taxpayer Services Office at (410) 767-4433 (Baltimore area) or 1-800-944-7403 (toll free).

Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit Program

The Homeowners' Property Tax Credit Program (Circuit Breaker) is the largest and most important program in that it provides annual property tax credits to one out of every 17 homeowners who qualify because of income. This State funded program provides over $49 million in needed relief to homeowners who meet the eligibility criteria, regardless of age. These tax credits are not given automatically. The homeowner must reapply each year and provide information regarding the total gross household income (under $60,000) for the previous calendar year. The filing deadline is normally September 1, but has been extended to October 1, 2008. If your household income is less than $60,000, and you have a net worth less than #200,000, you may be eligible for this tax relief. For more information or to get an application visit the Department of Assessments and Taxation’s website at www.dat.state.md.us. The application is also available at Mount Rainier’s City Hall.

The tax credit is determined according to the relationship between the homeowner's income and actual property tax that is levied against the property owner's principal residence. The tax credit does not cover the full amount of the property tax. Rather, credits are computed according to a sliding scale, with the result that the tax credit diminishes as the gross household income increases.

Homestead Tax Credit Program

Another tax relief program is the Homestead Tax Credit. First enacted in 1977, the program has been amended so that homeowners may be eligible for a State tax credit if the assessment of their owner-occupied principal residence increased more than 10% over the prior year. State law requires that county and municipal governments set a Homestead Credit Percentage between 0% and 10% for purposes of local property taxation. Beginning in 2008, homeowners are required to submit a one-time tax credit application that is included in that year’s Assessment Notice sent to one-third of the property owners.

Property Tax Deferral

This program allows property owners, age 65 or older, to elect to defer the increase in their property tax bill. Each local government must first adopt the program. The local government then has the authority under State law to impose income restrictions and interest rate amounts. The deferred taxes become a lien on the property and must be repaid when the property is transferred. Montgomery County makes this deferral program available to homeowners of all ages who meet certain residency and income requirements.

Senior MUST file to get the stimulus package

Senior even if you do not normally file an income tax form, this year you must file in order to receive the economic stimulus packet. To qualify for the stimulus payment, you must file by Oct. 15 of this year.

Not everyone is eligible for the stimulus package. If you do not file your income taxes, you will certainly not receive the stimulus packet even if you are eligible.
Normally certain Social Security payments are not subject to income tax. However, the economic stimulus law passed in February contains a special provision allowing Social Security recipients to count those benefits toward the qualifying income requirement of $3,000 and thereby qualify for the stimulus payment.

For eligible Social Security recipients who do not normally file a tax return, the IRS has prepared an 8-page informational package that provides instructions, a sample Form 1040A and a blank Form 1040A — everything needed to file the tax form. Order or download Package 1040A-3, 8-page informational package

Do you need help with filing for the economic stimulus package? Call 1-800-829-1040. You might have to wait for Assistance, but do not give up. You may just walk-in to the following offices:

Walk-In Site Landover
Address 8401 Corporate Dr.

City Landover, MD 20785
Phone (202) 927-9361
Hours of Operation Landover hours

Walk-In Site Washington DC
Address 500 N. Capitol St. NW

City Washington, DC 20221
Phone (202) 874-6748
Hours of Operation Washington hours

This is a one-time offer and it ends on October 15!
NOTE: If you have already filed to get your payment, but have a question or issue, try this link (or go to one of the walk-in offices):
http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=177937,00.html

Getting help with HIGH-energy bills

The Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) helps low-income Maryland citizens pay their heating bills, minimize heating crises, and make energy costs more affordable. A comprehensive energy package, which includes the Maryland Energy Assistance Program and the Electric Universal Service Program, has links to the community and the customer. These programs promote energy conservation, customer financial responsibility and energy independence.

The Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) provides assistance with home heating bills. Limited assistance is available to replace broken or inefficient furnaces.

The Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) is a state program that is administered by the Department of Human Resources to assist eligible low-income electric customers with their electric bills. Assistance is available whether you are an active customer or you are currently without service. Eligible electric customers may receive help in three ways:
Help to pay current electric bills;
Help to pay past due electric bills; and,
Help with energy efficiency measures to reduce future electric bills.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) has moved to the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). OHEP will continue to refer eligible customers to WAP. WAP may provide home weatherization services to eligible individuals such as weather stripping, caulking, plastic window covering, etc. to help make your home or apartment more fuel efficient and comfortable at no cost. For additional information, please call 1800-638-7781 or log on to www.dhcd.state.md.us

The Utility Service Protection Program (USPP) protects low-income families from utility cut-offs and allows MEAP eligible households to enter into a year-round even monthly payment program with their utility company. An equal monthly payment plan based on the estimated cost of the customer's average annual utility usage minus the MEAP benefit will be used to determine the even monthly payments for participation in the USPP.

You may apply for all of these energy assistance programs with a single application. Eligible customers may receive help from both programs. For information contact the Local Home Energy Programs Office in your area, or call 1-800-352-1446. (For the hearing impaired-1-800-925-4434).

Immunization requirement for Maryland Children

PLEASE note that there is one revision to the 2008 – 2009 immunization requirements include:
•
Varicella (chickenpox) and Hepatitis B vaccine requirements will be required for children entering preschool programs through eleventh grades.

If you have school age children, please make sure that you check their immunization before returning them to school. Your child may be eligible for health insurance, contact the local health department at 301-333-4822 or 301-324-2933. If you have questions about immunization requirements or enforcement of immunization regulations, please contact your local health department or the Center for Immunization at (410) 767-6679.

Need an immediate preventive health screen?

Well, we just may have an answer. Partnering in our very own City is Joe’s Movement Emporium and Ivan L. Robinson and Associates to bring preventive health care to every Mount Rainier resident. The free preventive program will include numerous heart-healthy activities such as health screens, exercise therapy, aerobic strength building, Yoga, belly dancing, Tai Chi, meal planning and relaxation and massage therapy. In addition, the program will include immunization for children and seniors. For more information about this program, contact Ivan L. Robinson 202-652-0536 or Joe’s Movement Emporium 301-699-1819.

Drop-IN Basketball

June 6, 2008 Drop-in Basketball took off with “one” Mount Rainier youth showing up. He came the first day, probably only once after that, but he was the beginning of something wonderful. On that Saturday night, almost fifty (50) youths from Mount Rainier and Brentwood came out to play and to see what it was going on. Most of those young people came back each weekend and brought their friends, cousins, and some even brought their parents. At the end, the numbers dropped and gave way to football practice, but not before the youth made it known that it was something that should be continued.

A play off between the youth and our police officers was scheduled, but cancelled at the last minute because of logistics. It is rescheduled for Saturday, August 23, 208 at 6:00pm. All are invited to come out and see our young people and our police officers interact in a positive manner.

Speaking of basketball, have you noticed how many young people are using the basketball court at Arundel and 30th Streets? It is an activity whose time has come, and the young people are thrilled to have a place to gather, chat, shoot hoops, play a game or even entertain their younger siblings. There have been some issues with noise, getting them to leave the park at dark, cleaning up behind themselves, and now and then some foul language. However, for the most part, the basketball court has been a success. It is always in use, and attracts old and young to its nets.

As responsible adults, let us not rush to judgment to take down the hoops. I have had at least one call complaining that the park has become infested with drugs. I truly believe that this is an unwarranted complaint. Our police officers have been asked to check the park regularly, and on at least two occasions they have actually been called and gone to the park to check, but nothing has been found.

Keep in mind as you look at the basketball court as a nuisance, that it is the only recreational park available for our teens. There is no recreation center with ongoing activities. Only in May did we get a soccer goal for the children to play soccer on the fields of Thomas Stone Elementary School. This has been the state of affairs for our older teens for years. So, let us give them a chance and work with them to make it work.

The noise level is down, the hanging out on apartment steps is down, and our children are getting in some real physical exercise – good for the body, mind and soul. As with anything, we still need to monitor the park and ensure the safety of our children as they continue to use the park and the basketball courts. Please report any negative behavior or activities. Here are some of the standing rules that should be enforced:
1) The basketball court is a shared space for the community.
2) The court is a part of the park and closes at dusk, no exceptions.
3) Consumption of alcoholic beverages or any kind is illegal and will be punished.
4) Everyone is expected to pitch in with keeping the park clean and available to others.
5) Profanity, fighting, and just plain bad behavior will not be tolerated and will be cause for the basketball hoops to once again be permanently remove.

A Community Activist Says Her Final Goodbye

On August 7, 2008, the City of Mount Rainier lost to cancer one of its most active citizens, Gloria Elizabeth Guess. Gloria came to Mount Rainier from Washington DC where she taught elementary students music for more than 35 years. She believed that music was the key to children learning history, math, reading, and civics. She also believed that as a teacher, she had to practice what she taught and so she rolled up her sleeves and became active in her beloved Mount Rainier. Gloria was an active participant in “We Can 2” a strong community activity group that began the initial work to get Bass to be a good cooperate citizen. With her orange hat friends and members, she walked the streets of the downtown area, and Kaywood to let the world know that Mount Rainier was not the place to be to run drugs, prostitution, or any other criminal activity.

I will miss Gloria, but I believe those who walked shoulder to shoulder with her to clean up Mount Rainier will also miss her. Bon Voyage Gloria, thanks for all the hard work.

Trees Trees Trees

It seems that Mother Nature has not been too kind to us recently with our trees. Many of them are dead, dying or in serious disrepair. Luther Smith, Public Works Director, and, I have surveyed the City making a list of all the dead trees and broken branches. Some of the work to remove the dead trees and branches was started a few weeks ago. It will be a long process, but we will get the trees and branches down on public right a way.

NOW, that brings us to private property. There are a number of dead trees on private property throughout the City. According to our City Codes, property owners are required to remove their dead trees in a timely manner. This Code is a safety code and is there to protect residents, not just the homeowners, but neighbors whose house might be hit by a falling tree in a storm or the tree might land on a car, and God forbid that accidently someone is hit by a falling tree or branch that could have been avoided.

Mayor and Council Recess

At the last meeting in June, the Mayor and Council voted to recess July (work sessions only) and August with special meetings as needed. We held a number of special meetings to address issues about the Bass property; community development block grant (CDBG) programs, and to host a public hearing on the Bass property.

If you have not already heard, the City has agreed to purchase the Bass property (consisting of several properties) for a purchase price of $954, 000. A $50,000 good faith deposit was made this week following the signing of the contract to purchase. We expect to go to settlement within the next 90 days. Various sources of financing are under consideration for this purchase. Rest assured, the City’s coffers are not being drained, and every effort will be made to generate some revenue from the property as we seek to revitalize that area.

You may not know how the City manages to get much of its streets, curbs and gutters work done throughout the year. Well the work is performed through grants from Housing and Urban Development (HUD) via our County government through CDBG grants. Each year for the past several years, Mount Rainier received $100,000 for streets, curbs and gutter work. Last year many of the municipalities (including Mount Rainier) did not receive CDBG funding from the County. Yet, the County’s allocation from HUD is based on its population as well as its needs (poverty, low income, etc.), and most of the inner beltway communities comprise the largest eligibility group and are found in municipalities. To participate in these funds under the County, the County requires a cooperation agreement from each municipality agreeing to participate, and to relinquish any say in how the funds are allocated. Because of this, the County has sole authority to distribute the funds, as it deems appropriate. Prince George’s County Municipal Association (PGCMA) has asked for a greater say in this process and for its fair share of the funds awarded to the County. Our allocation for this fiscal year is again $100,000 even though we were promised the funding from the previous year. This will have a negative impact on our streets, curbs and gutter work. Some much needed street work will be delayed, and your patience much appreciated.

National Night Out (NNO)

Did you miss this wonderful event? Again this year, Chief Scott and his staff along with our Public Works Department and City Hall staff out did themselves with this festive occasion. Residents from Brentwood and Mount Rainier came together at Thomas Stone Elementary School to listen to music, eat hot dogs and hamburgers as they learned safety tips, and meet the many law enforcement officers that work to keep our community safe. Once again, we received $1,500 from Councilman Will Campos to share the cost of this activity. Funds were also received from Washington Gas Company, and a State grant on crime prevention. If you missed this event, thank to our Cable Department, you can catch it on Channel 71 (Comcast) and 21 (Verizon). There is also an “On Air with the Mayor segment that you might find interesting. Kudos and thanks to all City employees that worked so hard to make this event a success.

Gateway CDC

I am sure that we are all aware of the reorganizational efforts taking place at the Gateway CDC. I ask that you not rush to conclusions, but continue to get the facts. The Mayor and Council recently received a report from representatives of the Gateway CDC. Additional information has been requested, and members of the Council have vowed to continue the dialog. In addition, there are a few projects funded through the CDC that are in question that are being addressed by the Mayor and Council and will continue to be addressed until they are resolved. A meeting with the president of the Gateway CDC is scheduled and will be held before you receive this newsletter. An update on this meeting will be provided at a later date.

100 Year Celebration Committee Members Needed (2010 Committee)

If you live, work, or even pass through this great City and wish to be a part of this celebration, this is your invitation to be a part of the planning committee. To sign on to the Committee, email Ms. Janis Lomax jlomax@mountrainiermd.org or call her at 301-985-6585. She will take your name, address, telephone number, email address, and begin setting up the Committee. The first meeting of the committee will be Saturday, September 27 10:30am Mount Rainier City Hall. We need to begin planning a grand celebration for 2010! Be a part of the action. Join this committee today.

Historian/Writer NEEDED!

Mount Rainier needs its on historian to write our history from 1975 to present, and for becoming the depository for our history. This will be an awesome task for someone inclined to capture the history of our coming or age municipality. It will be well worth the time and energy to see our history come alive on paper. If you have the time and skills to take on this task or know someone who is, please contact Ms. Lomax or any member of the Mayor and Council with all necessary contact information so that we can discuss this project with you.

Volunteers Needed for first day of school to give a child a pencil

Again, this year, the school board and school CEO John Deasy are asking members of the community and elected official to come out and welcome our students back to school. This activity was started a few years ago to show community support for our schools. This year, Prince George's County Public Schools and Prince George's County (Livable Communities) have partnered in this effort to have volunteers welcome students, administrators and parents back to school. If you are able to give an hour of your time on Monday August 25, 2008, please join me at one of the following schools on Monday to meet, greet, and welcome our students back to our schools. Children from Mount Rainier generally attend:

Mount Rainier Elementary School, Ms. Janet Reid, principal (8:00am), 4011 32nd St., Mt Rainier, MD, 20712, 301-985-1810; (Contact: Malinda Miles – 302-237-3889)
Thomas Stone Elementary School, Ms. Helen Smith, principal (8:00am), 4500 34th St., Mt Rainier, MD 20712, 301-985-1890; (Contact: Rev. Deborah Johnson – 301-350-7975)
Hyattsville Middle School, Ms. Gail Golden, principal, (7:15am), 6001 42nd Ave, Hyattsville – 301-985-1760; (Contact: not confirmed)
Northwestern High School, Mr. Jerome Thomas, principal, (9:15am.), 7000 Adelphi Rd, Hyattsville, MD 20782, 301-985-1820 (Contact: not confirmed).

Pencils will be available to hand out to students as they arrive. Please come join in this effort. Can’t join us on Monday, you may drop off pencil to Mount Rainier City Hall. Thank you.

Don't Be Left Disconnected

Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) is encouraging families to be prepared for the national switch from analog to digital television. By February 17, 2009, the PGCPS cable television station aired on Comcast Channel 96 and Verizon Channel 38 will begin digital broadcasting. This conversion from analog to digital broadcasting is known nationally as the digital television (DTV) transition. Converter boxes are available, if you do not have Comcast Cable or Verizon.

Condolences to the following families on their loss: Delegate Doyle Niemann on the loss of his Mother, Mrs. Ruby Neder on the loss of her husband Donald Neder (also drove the Caller-A-Bus for the City); and to all of the other families in Mount Rainier that have lost a love one. No words can fill your void, but on behalf of the residents of Mount Rainier, I extend our sincere sympathy.

As always your comments, concerns, and responses are welcome. Contact me at mayormiles@malindamiles.com or post a comment on my blog.

Website that might be of interest

Mayor Malinda Miles website – www.malindamiles.com
Mayor Malinda Miles’ blog -- http://themayorsspot.blogspot.com
Chief Michael Scott’s blog: -- http://mrpdchief.blogspot.com
Historic Mount Rainier Maryland --- http://www.mountrainiermd.org
Mount Rainier Police Department -- http://www.mountrainiermd.org/government/mrpd/index.html
Bunker Hill Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company --- http://www.mrvfd.org
Mount Rainier Elementary School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~mrainier/
Thomas Stone Elementary School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~tstone/index.htm
Hyattsville Middle School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~hyattsms/
Northwestern High School --- http://www.pgcps.pg.k12.md.us/~nwest
Prince George’s County Municipal Association http://www.pgcma.com
Maryland Municipal League --- http://www.mdmunicipal.org
Margaret Boozer --- http://www.margaretboozer.com/reddirt5.html
Joe’s Movement Emporium -- http://www.joesmovement.org/
Friends of the Mount Rainier Library (FOL) --- http://www.mtrainierfol.org/
Gateway Community Development Corporation www.gateway-cdc.org
Mount Rainier Business Association (MRBA) www.mrbassociation.org
H & F Fine Arts -- www.hffinearts.com
Artmosphere Café -- www.artmospherecafe.com
Washington Metro Area Transit Service http://www.wmata.com/

The Mayor's Report

May 20, 2008

The 2008 Mount Rainier Day Festival

What a day! More than 1,500 residents, neighbors, guests, visitor, artists, vendors, and others came to our City to participate in the Mount Rainier Day Festival! If you came out, you saw the crowded streets, and the foot traffic in our downtown area. Thank you for your support. We hope that we done you proud! Thank you to Miss Janis Lomax for heading up this year’s Committee and putting in all of those extra hours to make the Mount Rainier Day Festival special. So that I do not leave anyone out, know that the Mount Rainier Day Festival Committee was composed of the entire staff of the City of Mount Rainier. When you see any one of them on the streets over the next few days, PLEASE take a moment and say thank you.

Now, how about those vendors? More than 77 vendors, 17 of which are food vendors came out and supported this event. Even on the day of the Festival, vendors were just showing up to see if they could acquire a space, and if you were there, you know that space was at a premium. If my memory serves me correctly, we have about four empty spots that were sold to vendors who for some reason did not show, but every vending space was pretty much occupied even in places where we never anticipated placing a vendor. There was a good mix of craft and information vendors.

The Kiddie Korner was probably one of the most successful events of the day. If you saw the smiles on our children’s faces as they lined up for cotton candy, the moon bounce, the go karts, the pony rides or even the face paintings, you know they were happy. The skateboarders and the basketball players were equally happy about showing their skills during the various exhibitions. And, yes there was card playing right in the middle of it all.

The bands and other entertainment again proved to be a major draw to the festivities, and were well received by the crowds.

Also, hats off to our sponsors. In the past, we solicited (wrote grants) to our County Councilman, Will Campos and he has always provided significant financial support. Our own Mount Rainier Business Association (MRBA) has also provided financial support to this festival over the years. To them, I say thank you for always being there. This year we reached out for financial support from others who provide services to our residents and they came through. Other sponsors included Washington Gas, PEPCO, IHOP, and WSSC. To our new partners, I say thank you and welcome aboard. I believe that after witnessing this year’s extravaganza, they will be back in full swing to support the 2009 Mount Rainier Day Festival.

And that brings me to my next topic.

MOUNT RAINIER DAY FESTIVAL 2010 Committee

I know that April 2010 Mount Rainier will be 100 years old, and that is not something to sneeze at in this day and age. We are not the oldest City in Maryland, but over the years we have continued to be a City, and today we are a thriving City. As the current Mayor of Mount Rainier, I feel that it is my duty and responsibility to begin planning for our 100 years’ celebration, and would like to take this opportunity to invite residents of the community to join in this preparation.

If you live, work, or even pass through this great City and wish to be a part of this celebration, this is your invitation to sign on. To sign on to the Committee, simply email Ms. Janis Lomax jlomax@mountrainiermd.org. She will take your name, address, telephone number and email address and begin setting up the Committee. We will meet early and begin planning a grand celebration for 2010! Be a part of the action. Join this Committee today.

Historian/Writer NEEDED!

In addition to searching for Committee members to begin planning the 2010 celebration, Mount Rainier needs a historian to step forward to begin writing our history from 1975 to present, and for becoming the depository for our history. This will be an awesome task for someone inclined to capture the history of our coming or age municipality. It will be well worth the time and energy to see our history come alive on paper. If you have the time and skills to take on this task or know someone who is, please contact Ms. Lomax or any member of the Mayor and Council with all necessary contact information so that we can discuss this project with you.

The Mount Rainier Day Festival Parade

No, it was not a separate event, but I am taking the risk of sending out a few special thanks to this group of people who helped to make the Mount Rainier Day Festival a major hit. Participants in the parade came from all over, and the following is an inconclusive list of participants, but represents those I saw lining up at the Bunker Hill Fire Station:

Congressman Chris Van Hollen and staff
Senator David Harrington and staff
State’s Attorney Glenn Ivey and staff
Delegate Doyle Niemann
Delegate Victor Ramirez
County Councilman Will Campos and staff
Mount Rainier Riders
PJ Parks and the Mount Rainier Bike Coop
County Executive Jack Johnson’s PGC Mobile on the Government Bus (GO BUS)
The Prince George’s County Sheriff’s Department
The Bunker Hill Fire and Rescue Team
The Parkdale Marching Band
The Northwestern Marching Band
The Hyattsville Cheerleaders
The Red Hatters of MSA
The Bodacious Babes of Bowie
Larry Solomon and Thrifty Car Rental
The Mount Rainier Soccer Team
The Mount Rainier Police Department
Toby the Clown and others
Former Miss Mount Rainier, Sonatta Camara
Mount rainier Elementary Gentleman’s Club
Mount Rainier Elementary Sophisticated ladies
Mount Rainier Skateboarders
Paws of Enchantment
Mount. Rainier Martial Arts Center

To all of you, thank you for coming out and making this an enjoyable day for the residents and citizens of Mount Rainier Maryland.

For those who are NOT listed here, but was in the Mount Rainier Day Festival Parade, my heartfelt thanks and appreciation is just as real and sincere. If you will provide me with your information, I will make sure that you are listed in my next report.

It’s Almost Time for Drop-IN Basketball

June 6, is almost here, and registration and waiver forms for drop in basketball are available at Mount Rainier City Hall; Thomas Stone and Mount Rainier Elementary Schools; Kaywood Garden, Queens Manor, and Queenstown Apartments; and Brentwood Town Hall. The registration form is also included in this copy of “The Message.” PLEASE complete the form and return it to Mount Rainier’s City HALL no later than Monday, June 2, 2008. (A registration form for drop-in basketball is also attached to this report that can be filled out and returned to City Hall.)

Drop-in basketball is for youths 13-18. The program is hosted at Thomas Stone Elementary School in its Gymnasium. MNCPPC is working with the City of Mount Rainier and the Town of Brentwood to provide this recreational opportunity for our teenage boys and girls. We are hoping that parents will get involved and help our youths to take advantage of this program.

Background checks have been done on all volunteers, and we are ready to open the doors for our youth to shoot some hoops! All equipment has been donated by MNCPPC. Now we need our YOUTHS and PARENTS to come on out and play!

Community Volunteers STILL NEEDED!

Skilled and unskilled basketball players to work with our youths in learning sportsmen conduct, basketball skills, and life skills. Still want to be a part of the solution to our gang and youth crisis? Here is your opportunity. Please call (301-985-6585) or email (mayormiles@malindamiles.com) me, if you are willing to commit 3 to six evening hours working with our youth.

Program Details:

• Starting June 6, 2008 the youth basketball developmental program will kick off
• Doors will open at 6:00pm for registration and organizational meeting
• The City of Mount Rainier
• Thomas Stone Elementary School Gymnasium

Spring Beautification Program Down Town

Hyattsville Nursery continues to work with our Public Works Department to improve the greenery of our down town area. This past week, our very own Public Works Department spent hours in the down town area cleaning and weeding after the rain to make us look good on Mount Rainier Day. They did an excellent job, and their work showed on Saturday.

We need to keep working our gateway, and more is planned to make it a show piece as we partner with the District of Columbia to make Rhode Island Avenue the Gateway to Prince George’s County and the Gateway to the District of Columbia.

Visitors to our City do not just ride down Rhode Island Avenue they tour the City and look at the other homes and yards. So, let’s get out there and cut that grass (I am trying for every two weeks to get my grass cut), and if you are into flowers and shrubs that is even better. Working together, we can make our quiet little City the show place of the County for small town living.

Continue to keep an eye on the down town area. We want it to be our showcase.

Partnering with the District of Columbia

Did you hear the big announcement on Saturday? If not, here it is. As a part of the redevelopment of the downtown area, Mount Rainier through vigorous efforts of our partner, Landmark Development, LLC the District of Columbia under the leadership of Mayor Adrian Fenty and Councilman Harry Thomas will be joining with Mount Rainier to extend redevelopment across the District line to South Dakota Avenue!

Just think of what this partnership will mean to the downtown development of Mount Rainier! Working together with the leadership in the District of Columbia, working with the leadership in our City we can make this the largest and best gateway entrance to any City!

Over the next few weeks, the City will be taking some major steps to begin the next phase of development along the south side of Rhode Island Avenue. One of the initial steps will be to begin some general studies that are needed before development can begin. Another is to begin cleaning up some of the blighted conditions along Rhode Island Avenue including the removal of blighted buildings. These are major steps that must be taken to revitalize our City, and we need you the residents on board with us. There will be upcoming hearings and charretts (involving municipal officials, developers, and residents), and information forums, and other communications as the Mayor and Council takes on this awesome task of changing the dynamics and appearance of our downtown are. We know we can count on your support in this endeavor.

The Mayor’s Adopt-A-Street Program

This program has taken off! We already have several streets adopted by groups. Kudos and thank yous to the organizations that have signed on. There is plenty of room for everyone else who wish to help keep our City streets clean. If you missed the program requirements in my previous report, here they are again. YOU are needed.

THE MAYOR’S ADOPT-A-STREET PROGRAM

What is Adopt-a-Street?
Adopt-a-Street is a program launched by the Mayor of Mount Rainier to solicit help in keeping its streets clean by individuals, groups and organizations within the community. Volunteer individuals, groups and organizations “adopt” a three-block or longer stretch of a City street, make a two-year commitment to pick up the trash at least six times a year, and make minor improvements to the landscape, i.e., plant grass, flowers and/or mulch as appropriate.

Who can adopt?
Anyone can adopt a highway, families, businesses, civic and church groups, or even individuals. Children can participate with adult supervision as long as they are not allowed to work alone on the street, if they are under the age of 14. Children 14 and over participating in this project will earn community service hours for their participation.

Why Adopt?
This program provides an opportunity to show pride in our community. Individuals, groups and/or organizations also get recognition for their efforts on the Adopt-a-Street sign posted along their adopted street. Picking up trash along the streets is an easy, team-building project that takes no financial commitment and only a few hours each year.

How does it work?
Individuals, groups and/or organizations select a minimum of six convenient dates for the two (2) year project that everyone will get together to pick up trash and spruce up their street. The City will provide the trash bags, bright orange vests and safety instructions and information to each individual, group or organization wishing to participate in this project. The bags of litter or yard waste can be put out with regular yard waste and/or trash for pick up by Mount Rainier’s Public Works Department, and recyclables can be put out for recycling on recycling day!

What are the rewards?
Each individual, group and/or organization adopting a street or section of a street will be featured in the City’s newsletter “The Message.” In addition, the City will issue certificates of appreciation to each individual, group and/or organization adopting a street and/or a section of a street within the City.

Depending on how large a section is adopted by the individual, group or organization, the City will allow the group to purchase and erect a maximum of three signs with the individual, group and/or organization’s name. Signs will be similar to those seen along state highways but a size smaller. The signs will be erected by Mount Rainier’s Public Works Department.

Adopt me!
Just call Mount Rainier’s City Hall 301-985-6585 or e-mail the City’s Public Work’s Director at lsmith@mountrainiermd.org, and we will get you started in this environmentally friend program. Your efforts will be good for your street and an invaluable contribution to the City of Mount Rainier!

How do I get started?
Adopt-a-Street volunteers will serve a critical role in helping the City stay clean, and begin the process of cleaning the City for the celebration of our centennial. All of our streets are up for adoption. To find out what streets are most in need of adoption, call City Hall or check the Mount Rainier website and/or cable channel.

“MOUNT RAINIANS KEEPING MOUNT RAINIER CLEAN!”

Joint Mount Rainier Brentwood Recreation Council

The Mount Rainier City Council recently established a three (3) member Mount Rainier Recreational Council (Rec Council). These three members will serve on the Mount Rainier Brentwood Recreation Council under Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) Recreation Department. The volunteer members of this Council are Donald Bell, Mirna Mejia (started the Mount Rainier Soccer Team) and Malinda Miles. The first meeting of the Mount Rainier Recreational Council was held on May 26, 2008 at 10:00am at Mount Rainier City Hall. The Rec Council will meet with the three (3) Brentwood members of the Brentwood Recreational Council (Rec Council) once they are appointed. At that meeting we will set the meeting schedule for the Rec Council for the year as well as identify programs for our communities. (NOTE: Each Rec Council can have more than three members, however, only the three appointed members will be able to vote on items and issues.) Mount Rainier Recreational Council still needs volunteers, and if you are interested, please call Mount Rainier City Hall.

Planning Continues for the Dog Park

Earlier this year, I noted in one of my reports that the Dog Park was coming. Although it has not been finalized, the Dog Park is still on the horizon. The dog park is to be located at Ager Road and Nicholson Street in Hyattsville. For all those interested in the particulars for the park and/or would like to get more information there will be a meeting in Hyattsville June 11, 2008 at 7:00pm at 4310 Gallatin Street. The meeting will be held in the Prangley Room.

Planning and Permitting 101

Are you confused about getting permits from the County and who handles planning and permitting? Well you just might want to attend a County sponsored workshop on Planning and Permitting being developed by the Department of Environmental Resources (DER) and Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC). This workshop is scheduled for May 28, 2008. 6:00pm Sports and Learning Center. Mark your calendar and plan to attend.

Significant Highlights of the City Budget

Without giving a play-by-play report of how hard the Mayor and Council and the Mount Rainier City employees are working for you, I frequently choose to just highlight some of the big items or new initiatives. It would be remiss of me, however, to not mention in this report the time and effort that has gone into developing this year’s budget and to point out a few major developments.

1. The City although in the “black” is not financially well off. We are making the payroll, paying our bills in a timely manner, and actually have some money in reserve/contingency. As in the past two years, the City has not had to borrow on its $400,000 line of credit to cover its expenses.
2. Although we have approximately $1.5 million in the reserve/contingency fund, we have not made all of the adjustments necessary to cover expected indebtedness, e.g., increased cost in the employee pension plan; increased salaries and benefits for all employees; improved health benefits; and higher cost of just doing business. For example, the City is not immune to the high cost of gas, high cost of repairs and maintenance to cars, trucks, buildings and other equipment that is essential for the City to conduct good business.
3. Last year the City initiated a program to help seniors, dissimilarly-abled persons, and persons with incomes below $60,000. This program resulted in the City distributing approximately $10,000 to residents meeting the eligibility requirement. During the coming year, it is expected that this rebate will increase to approximately $12,000. Those residents receiving funds last year have expressed their appreciation for the relief that came with the checks even though they were small checks.
4. The City has purchased and still needs to purchase another trash/garbage truck to meet the growing need for trash/yard waste/garbage collection in the City. This is a very expensive item, but a very necessary one.
5. During the past few years, the City has been seeking to replace it used and worn out police vehicles. Last year this resulted in the purchase of five new police cars that had to also be equipped for police use. This year, we are adding three new cars to our fleet.
6. Increased recreational activities for the youths of Mount Rainier continue to be a major concern of the Mayor and Council in each year’s budget. This year we have added $16,000 to help provide recreation. It is anticipated that as this program develops there will be increased cost associated with it.
7. As our population and demographics change, there will be an increased need for Mount Rainier to provide better communications to its residents. As part of our forward thinking, Mayor and Council are discussing higher level technology for meeting those needs, e.g., Polycom video conferencing.
8. Major thinking in this year’s budget is the acquisition and development of properties (3409 Rhode Island Avenue, the Southside of Rhode Island Avenue, and other properties in the downtown area are under consideration) within the City that have hindered development of the down town area. Although the City has sought to minimize its cash outlay to develop these properties by partnering with a major developing company, there are costs associated (e.g., legal fees, appraisals, environmental studies, etc.) with any development project within the City. In addition, as is frequently discussed, Mount Rainier was completely built out many years ago, and parking over the years has become a major issue. Therefore, Mayor and Council continue to discuss parking in the downtown area to support the current and growing development of our City.
9. Another goal is to provide longer hours for our police department to be open and available to the public. When our million plus police department was built, it was to be open 24-hours a day. That has never happened. In the proposed budget, the police department would be open during our current downtown business hours (7:00am until 12:00am approximately). This would provide for more effective police services during hours when crime is most likely to occur. I have personally checked our downtown area after the police station closed at 5:00pm and seen people trying to contact the police to report a crime or get information. For the dollars invested, the citizens of this City deserve a better return and Mayor and Council are seeking ways to increase the return. (NOTE: For the past 10 years, give or take a few, the City has paid almost a half million dollars for dispatch services, and this year those services are going up.)

With all of the increases and the capital improvements that are being proposed there no tax increase is being proposed. The City bit the bullet on increasing taxes about seven years ago, and because of that tax increase and the major rise in our property values, the City has been able to dig itself out of the red, and begin building a solid base for future growth. It is my honest opinion that this is not the time to cut our taxes or to change the way in which we have begun to do business. We have fought for, demanded and received sound financial management of our resources (fiscal and physical).

As other municipalities seek to increase their taxes, Mount Rainier can stand its ground, continue its services, and continue to build toward its future. I believe we (Mayor, Council, and staff) are doing a good job. We need to seek new revenue streams and to seek partnerships that will help to make us economically sound as we develop and redeveloped our City.

Thank you to our many Volunteers

One of the ways the City has been able to expand services is through our volunteers. With a staff of 35 to 40 it is impossible to carry out every task or service requested by our residents. However, because of persons who have continuously volunteered and served on our many committees we have done and continue to do the impossible.

To those who volunteer and seek only the satisfaction of having contributed, I salute you and thank you. You are not often thanked for the many hours that you give to our City. Most of the residents do not even know your names, yet reap the benefits of your tireless efforts. As we begin the new fiscal year, it is my goal to find a way to formally recognize our volunteers as the valuable resource they are, and to take time to thank them publicly. So, look forward to more information on how this will be done, but know that it will be done because you are appreciated.

Basketball Court at 30th and Arundel

Thanks to Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission (MNCPPC) the long awaited basketball court at 30th and Arundel is up and in use. It was good to watch the young boys and girls come out to play basketball. Parents please help us to keep the court up and open.

There are some rules that must be followed.
1) The basketball court is a shared space for the community.
2) The court is a part of the park and closes at dusk, no exceptions.
3) Consumption of alcoholic beverages or any kind is illegal and will be punished.
4) Everyone is expected to pitch in with keeping the park clean and available to others.
5) Profanity, fighting, and just plain bad behavior will not be tolerated and will be cause for the basketball hoops to once again be permanently remove.

These are very simple rules and easy enough to follow, so we are counting on our youths to be responsible, obey the rules, and enjoy the newly refurbished basketball court.

Soccer anyone?

Thanks to a very energetic and creative parent, Mirna Mejia, Mount Rainier has its on soccer team. It is called the Mount Rainier Community Soccer Club. Mirna Mejia is the proud mother of four boys one 11 years old, 9 years old and twin of 13 months. She also serves as the third member of the newly formed Mount Rainier Rec Council. Two Mirna’s boys attend Thomas Stone Elementary.

Working with her neighbor her neighbor Fernando Vargas and Thomas Stone’s Physical Education teacher Samantha Holtz they formed a soccer teams for six graders who wanted to play soccer. With the help and guidance from Capital Community Soccer, a non-profit organization in DC, they were able to secure equipment and uniforms that allowed them to play with their teams here at Mount Rainier. They played their first game April 26, 2008.

From this humble begin there are more than 21 boys playing and more coming every day. The goal is to form at least three (3) teams and be ready for them to play this fall. The team practices at Thomas Stone Elementary where soccer goals are being installed with the help of the Prince George’s County School System.

Interested? Contact City Hall (301-985-6585) and leave your name, telephone number and address and Ms. Mejia will get in touch with you. Better still come out and meet the mover and shaker of this program on Saturday, June 14, 2008 at 30th and Arundel Road from 11:30am until 4:00pm to share a hot dog and sign up.

Remember that non-Scientific Survey about Mail Delivery?

The results are in. About 20 people responded to the survey and it was a fifty-fifty split on mail delivery. Fifty percent of those responding thought the delivery services in our area were great and the other fifty thought they were terrible. Regardless of the results, mail is still being misdirected/delivered too often for comfort. It was also reported that some days people who like me get a lot of mail don’t get any. Well, I have kicked this issue up to higher authorities and believe it or not they have the same problems (but by the bag full). I asked Senator Cardin’s and Congressman Van Hollen’s offices to look into this matter on our behalf, and they noted that they have experienced the same problem, and want to probe more into this matter to see if it is a widespread issue. So, I need to hear from you if you are frequently receiving someone else’s mail or not getting your mail.

Peace March at Mount Rainier Elementary

The Annual Peace March will be held at Mount Rainier Elementary on Friday, May 30, 2008 at 32nd and Shepherd. The parade will start around 9:00 and will last about an hour and a half. For more information please contact the school at 301-985-1810.

As always your comments, concerns, and responses are welcome. Contact me at mayormiles@malindamiles.com or post a comment on my blog.

Website that might be of interest

Mayor Malinda Miles website – www.malindamiles.com
Mayor Malinda Miles’ blog -- http://themayorsspot.blogspot.com
Chief Michael Scott’s blog: -- http://mrpdchief.blogspot.com
Historic Mount Rainier Maryland --- http://www.mountrainiermd.org
Mount Rainier Police Department -- http://www.mountrainiermd.org/government/mrpd/index.html
Bunker Hill Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company --- http://www.mrvfd.org
Mount Rainier Elementary School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~mrainier/
Thomas Stone Elementary School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~tstone/index.htm
Hyattsville Middle School --- http://www.pgcps.org/~hyattsms/
Northwestern High School --- http://www.pgcps.pg.k12.md.us/~nwest
Prince George’s County Municipal Association http://www.pgcma.com
Maryland Municipal League --- http://www.mdmunicipal.org
Margaret Boozer --- http://www.margaretboozer.com/reddirt5.html
Joe’s Movement Emporium -- http://www.joesmovement.org/
Friends of the Mount Rainier Library (FOL) --- http://www.mtrainierfol.org/
Gateway Community Development Corporation www.gateway-cdc.org
Mount Rainier Business Association (MRBA) www.mrbassociation.org
H & F Fine Arts -- www.hffinearts.com
Washington Metro Area Transit Service http://www.wmata.com/

MOUNT RAINIER DAY FESTIVAL

The Mount Rainier Day Festival will once again feature a PARADE; food, craft, and informational vendors; a variety of bands, and other entertainers; and a host of fun activities for our children of all ages (including cotton candy)!

WHEN: MAY 17, 2008

WHERE: DOWNTOWN MOUNT RAINIER (RHODE ISLAND AVENUE)

TIMES: 8:00am TO 10:00am VENDORS SET UP

10:00am VENORS OPEN FOR SERVICE

10:00am GREETINGS AND WELCOME

10:30am PARADE LINE UP

11:00am PARADE BEGINS

12:00n PARADE ENDS

12:10pm MAYOR MILES AND MAYOR FENTY MAKES MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT

12:15pm BANDS AND OTHER PERFORMANCES BEGIN

6:00pm MOUNT RAINIER DAY FESTIVAL ENDS

...and throughout the day our LOCAL ARTISTS invite you to TOUR THE GATEWAY ARTS DISTRICT STUDIOS!

Over 50 artists throughout the municipalities of Mount Rainier, Brentwood, North Brentwood and Hyattsville will open their studios to the public on Saturday, May 17th from 12 Noon to 5 PM. Most studios are along a 2.1-mile stretch of the Route 1/Baltimore Avenue/Rhode Island Avenue corridor, but some are located in Mount Rainier's former industrial district at Otis and Wells.

The Gateway Arts District Open Studio Tour is a public self-guided tour of professional and home based studios showcasing a variety of mediums---painting, sculpture, glass, photography, mixed media, clay/ceramics, printmaking and craftwork. Most studios are centrally located in the city of Mount Rainier with the Hyattsville Community Artists Alliance exhibiting at the Lustine Showroom as part of Arts District Hyattsville.

Home to many of the DC areas most celebrated artists and studios, which include DC GlassWorks, Red Dirt Studio, The Washington Glass School and Studio, FLUX, and the Quixote Center Gallery the arts district is a veritable hot spot of highly acclaimed artists that produce works that are exhibited and collected nationally and internationally. Artists include Margaret Boozer, Tim Tate, Ellyn Weiss, Laurel Lukaszewski, David D'Orio, Crisley McCarson, Kyan Bishop, Yvon Fleurival and many more.

A highlight of the tour includes the installation and printmaking show, Michael B. Platt: Lost and Found at the H & F Fine Arts Gallery. A native Washingtonian whose works are in collections at the Corcoran Gallery, the Smithsonian Museum of American Art, and the Library of Congress, Platt often focuses on the history of marginalized populations of Africa and the African Diaspora. A collaborative effort with poet Carol Beane, Lost and Found is set against the backdrop of American Slavery and the implications of Hurricane Katrina.

Drop in on classes and demonstrations at performing arts venues-World Arts Focus at Joe's Movement Emporium, Alafia Professional Dance Space, and Artmosphere Digital Arts Café.

This project is produced by Gateway CDC, with support provided by the Maryland-National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, Prince George's County, Division of Arts and Cultural Heritage. For further information or press inquiries, contact Tonya Jordan at 301-864-3860, ext. 1 or email: tonya@gateway-cdc.org.