Yesterday marked the beginning of a new day in City Government. None of us asked for this moment, but all of us must accept the challenges and hard work that come with it. I am so humbled and very grateful for all the support and efforts of so many to help our City in this difficult time. Yesterday did not mark the end of the transition process. Our work continues. As you know, more than 150 of our citizens, business leaders and community representatives have been conducting a robust, comprehensive review of all city agencies and functions; in an effort to increase efficiency, improve ethics and create new partnerships to move Baltimore forward. Now, it is time to come together, in unity, to confront our challenges as one united city. Trust, leadership and open dialogue will guide us in this process. We will work tirelessly to balance the City's budget, which has a deficit of more than $120 million. Mark my words: We will keep what works and fix what doesn't in city government so that our people emerge stronger. Together, we can, and will build a better, safer, stronger Baltimore. God bless our people and City, and join me in moving Baltimore forward.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Mayor, Baltimore |
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Snow Storm Preparedness
Mayor Rawlings-Blake is encouraging all city residents to complete household preparations for the storm now. Preparedness information can be found at www.readysetgood.com. Citizens should keep necessary supplies on hand such as fresh batteries, flashlights, blankets, portable radios, bottled water, medicine and other important items. For information and updates throughout the weekend, residents can log onto www.396snow.com or call the city's snow line at 410-396-SNOW.
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Homebuying Education Classes Live Baltimore is offering a series of Homebuying Education classes for people who are interested in learning about various topics. Participants will gain a better understanding of the homebuying process and other related topics. Each class is a stand-alone, so you can attend one or more sessions depending on your interest. It's your choice! Class sizes are limited and we encourage pre-registration. All classes are free. February 13, 2010 - "Is Now the Right Time To Buy A Home?" February 17, 2010 - "Understanding the Good Faith Estimate & Homeowners Insurance" February 20, 2010 - "The Baltimore City Homebuyers Guide" February 23, 2010 - "Renovating a Fixer Upper in Baltimore City!" For more information, please visit www.LiveBaltimore.com. |
Free Tax Preparation! The Baltimore CASH Campaign wants working families to get all the credit they deserve. Families and individuals can have their taxes prepared for free at one of 20 CASH Campaign locations in Baltimore. And if they qualify, families and individuals can claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other valuable tax credits. Start saving and buy a US Savings Bond at all tax sites. Free services are provided to taxpayers with incomes under $49,000 and single taxpayers (no dependents) with incomes under $25,000. To learn more or to make an appointment at one of the CASH Campaign locations, call 410-685-0525 or 2-1-1 or visit www.bmorefreetaxes.org. |
Kresge Arts in Baltimore Grant Application Have you been looking for an opportunity to explore a community issue through arts and cultural activities? Have you heard about the Kresge Arts in Baltimore grant program? Kresge Arts in Baltimore was created by the Kresge Foundation of Troy, Michigan to encourage Baltimore residents to use art and culture as a tool to address community issues. The grant program is open to nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations and municipal agencies or individuals and organizations with a tax-exempt fiscal sponsor. Projects must take place in Baltimore City. The application deadline is March 31, 2010 at 5pm.To learn more about Kresge Arts in Baltimore go to www.bcf.org/kresgeAiB |