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| Today, I marked the first 100 days of my administration. Looking back, I am proud of our accomplishments, including conquering two blizzards, signing strong ethics legislation, and developing a comprehensive plan to balance the City budget. Baltimore also had the second largest increase in the nation for Census mail-in rates, compared to rates in 2000. Most recently, Baltimore signed an agreement to bring Grand Prix racing to Baltimore in 2011.
 It is an honor to serve the people of Baltimore, the City I love. Working alongside dedicated City employees, and supported by community and business partners, we are making tremendous progress on the toughest challenges. Members of the Baltimore Police Department continue to reduce violent crime, bringing it to the lowest level in decades. In the first four months of the year, Baltimore had the fewest homicides in 33 years. Total gun crime is down 21%.
I know that this progress will be difficult to sustain unless we take responsible action to balance the city's budget. My Comprehensive Plan will help balance Baltimore's devastating $121 million budget deficit without drastically cutting public safety and essential services or raising property taxes. The plan would close the $121 million budget deficit with roughly $70 million in spending reductions and $50 million in new, diversified revenue.
Just like any family, a financial crisis of this magnitude has the power to rip us apart or bring us closer together. We must choose the constructive path and work together to fill these critical gaps in services. We must do what is necessary for our great City. The Comprehensive Plan requires City Council approval. I need your support to protect our priorities and do what is right for Baltimore. Please contact your City Council representative to share your thoughts as the budget process continues.
William Donald Schaefer said there is nothing as wonderful as being Mayor of Baltimore. After 100 amazing days, I agree wholeheartedly. It is an honor to serve and move our great City forward.
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Sincerely,
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Mayor, City of Baltimore
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Enoch Pratt Community Awards Nominations
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Call for AmeriCorps*VISTA Volunteers
Want to make Baltimore a better place? Greater Homewood Community Corporation is seeking qualified candidates for the nationally-renowned AmeriCorps*VISTA program. Sign on for a year of service and receive a modest living allowance, health benefits, and an end-of-service education award. Positions start in August 2010 in the areas of improving public schools, strengthening neighborhoods, adult literacy and English for speakers of other languages (ESOL). The deadline for applications is July 15. Visit www.greaterhomewood.org to learn more. |
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Preakness Parade of Lights Friday, May 14, 8:30 pm
Pratt Street, from Market Place to First Mariner Arena Be dazzled by colorful floats, helium-balloon characters, equestrians, marching bands, and military units at the 37th Annual Preakness Parade.
For more information, visit www.preaknesscelebration.com. |
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Ride Around the Reservoir Saturday, May 15, 10:00 am-1:00 pm
Druid Hill Park Reservoir Enjoy a ride around the scenic reservoir and Jones Falls Trail. Adult and children's bikes and helmets are available. A donation of $2 is appreciated.
For more information, call 410-396-7900. |
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Make a Choice, Make a Change Challenge! Saturday, May 15, 11:00 am-3:00 pm
George Washington Elementary School, 800 Scott Street University of Maryland Extension presents educational activities, speakers, and community resources to engage individuals, families and youth in the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and preventive healthcare.
For more information, call 410-856-1850, ext. 122. |
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Herb Festival Saturday, May 15, 12:00 pm-2:00 pm
Carrie Murray Nature Center, 1901 Ridgetop Road Learn the types of herbs should you grow in your garden. The greenhouse will be open for plant purchases. Registration and a small fee are required. No pets please.
For more information, call 410-396-0808. |
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Plants & People Sunday: Pre-K Story Hour Sunday, May 16, 1:30 pm-3:30 pm
Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory & Botanic Gardens, 3100 Swan Drive Mothers Day can be celebrated any day. Enjoy a story and make a paper sunflower for your mother. Recommended for children ages 2-5. Admission is FREE, but donations are appreciated.
Call 410-396-0008 for more information. |
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Every Diabetic Counts Wednesdays in May, 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Druid Heights Community Development Corp., 2140 McCulloh Street Join us for diabetes education classes and more.
For more information or to register, call 410-523-1350. |
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Cylburn Sounds Wednesday, May 19, 6:00 pm
Cylburn Arboretum, 4915 Greenspring Avenue Enjoy a FREE evening of jazz in Baltimore's public gardens! This is a free concert, and parking is available on the grounds.
For more information, email ArtsII@aol.com. |
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Stand Up for Students Friday, May 21, 7:00 pm
McGuire Hall, Loyola University Maryland, 4501 N. Charles Street This stand up comedy fund raiser, hosted by Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, will provide students from economically disadvantaged neighborhoods the opportunity to receive a rigorous college preparatory education.
For more information or for tickets, call Ru Belt at 410-727-3255, ext. 1025. |
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Pro Bono Day Saturday, May 22, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Legal Aid Bureau, 500 East Lexington Street The Bar Association of Baltimore City invites you to discuss your civil legal problems one-on-one with an attorney at this FREE legal clinic. Registration is not required. Please bring any relevant documents with you.
For more information, call 410-539-5936 ext. 102 or email probono@baltimorebar.org. |
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Children of the Dance International Concert Saturday, May 22, 5:00 pm
Murphy Fine Arts Center, 2201 Argonne Drive An Exciting Gathering of Youth Dancers from Around the World! Tickets include a post concert dessert reception.
For tickets or information, call 410-433-5383 or purchase online at www.dancebaltimore.org. |
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