The Waltherson Improvement Association

February Meeting - Hookah Bar proposal

2012-01-28T10:36:00.004-05:00

Our next meeting is Wednesday, February 1st @ Harbel (5807 Harford Rd).

We will discuss Hookah Bar proposal for 5009 Harford Rd @ Police report on incident on Arabia/Ailsa 1/20/12. If you have any questions or concerns about these items please attend.

We will have Councilman Curran, the individual proposing the Hookah Bar, and Deputy Major Lester Rutherford of the NE District Police Dept in attendance.

February Newsletter

2012-01-28T10:35:00.002-05:00

Our February Newsletter can be found at the link below:

http://www.scribd.com/doc/79678704/Waltherson-Feburary-2012-Newsletter

Potential Closing of Hamilton Post Office

2012-01-10T09:40:00.002-05:00

Reminder: the meeting regarding the closure of the Hamilton Post office is this Thursday.

Event: Public Meeting Concerning the Potential Closure of the Hamilton Post Office

Date: January 12, 2012

Day of Week: Thursday

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: Hamilton Presbyterian Church, 5532 Harford Road, Baltimore, MD 21214

The Postal Service has scheduled this Public Meeting to discuss the potential closure of the Hamilton Post Office at 4901 Harford Road, which serves the 21214 zip code.

Notice of Liquor Board Hearing - 4901½ Belair Road

2012-01-09T11:10:00.000-05:00

The following case in Northeast Baltimore will be going before the Board of Liquor License Commissioners for Baltimore City this Thursday, January 12th at 3:00pm. The establishment is located at Belair Road and Woodlea Ave on the Frankford (east) side:

Kweon Sun Mun & Kum Wha Mun, Ham’s Liquors, Inc. T/a Ham’s Liquors & Grocery, 4901½ Belair Road (Frankford) - Class “A” Beer, Wine & Liquor license – Violation of Rule 4.01(a) “No licensee shall sell or furnish alcoholic beverages to any person under twenty-one (21) years of age or to any person with the knowledge that such person is purchasing or acquiring such beverages for consumption by any person under twenty-one (21) years of age” on November 4, 2011 (Re: Bottle of wine sold to individual under the age of 21).

All hearings take place in City Hall Room 215. Please contact Jane Schroeder of the Liquor Board with any questions or comments you have regarding these cases at (410) 396-4385 or Jane.Schroeder@baltimorecity.gov.

Proposed Frankford & Corse Intersection Changes

2012-01-09T10:24:00.000-05:00

Please see the proposed changes to the intersection of Frankford Ave & Corse Ave and let us know any concerns you have. In the picture below Belair Rd is off to the right and Walther Ave would be off to the left.

Waltherson January Newsletter & Meeting

2011-12-31T13:54:00.000-05:00

Our January meeting will be held at Harbel at 7:45 PM on Wednesday January 4th. We will be discussing a proposed Hookah Bar just north of Ailsa Ave at 5009 Harford Rd.

You can find the January Newsletter at the link below.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/76853333

Section 8 Housing Community Conversation

2011-12-01T11:42:00.001-05:00

For anyone interested, please see the meeting times below. Mt Pleasant church is located at 6000 Radecke Ave Baltimore, MD 21206

Join Delegate Cheryl D. Glenn

45^th Legislative District

· Saturday, December3, 2011, 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Mt. Pleasant Church –

Section 8 Housing Program Community Conversation (with Dept.of Housing and Community Leaders and Activists)

· Saturday,January 7, 2012, 10 a.m. – 12 noon, Mt. Pleasant Church –

Delegate Glenn’s 4^th Annual Pre-LegislativeSession Community Conversation

(with Community Leaders and Activists)

· Monday,February 13, 2012, 6-8 p.m. –

45^th Legislative DistrictAnnual Night in Annapolis – Senate Building – West 1 & West II

For questions or additional information, contact DelegateCheryl D. Glenn at District Office at 410-563-0228 before January 10, 2012after January 10, 2012 call the Annapolis Office at 410-841-3257.

Update on St. Anthony's school building

2011-12-01T11:34:00.001-05:00

Below is an update regarding the roundtable sessions on the old school building at St. Anthony's just east of Belair and Frankford. There is a proposal by Baltimore International Academy Charter School to purchase and relocate into the building. There is contact information at the end of the letter who you can contact with your opinion on the application. Please leave your thoughts in the comments as well.

TheCatholic Faith Community of

Saint Anthony of Padua/ Most Precious Blood

4414 Frankford Avenue

Baltimore, Maryland 21206-5133

Phone:(410) 488-0400 Fax: (410) 488-0032

E-Mail: sapmpb@comcast.net Website: www.stampb.org

November 26, 2011

Re: Update on the vacantformer Mother Mary Lange/St. Anthony School

Dear Neighbor,

As promised, we are writing to you with an update after our recentroundtable sessions.

State and City representatives, community residents,parishioners and members of the businesscommunity were in attendance. It was awonderful representation of interested parties.

Over 200 proposed uses, opportunities,community needs and concerns were expressed. A full report is being prepared and will be sent out soon. The suggested uses fell into ten categorieswith educational uses and community enrichment being predominant. Among educational uses, the Charter school known as the BaltimoreInternational Academy (BIA), a language immersion school, was mentioned most often. The BIA is housed at present on the grounds of the Maryland Schoolfor the Blind but must vacate their facility to accommodate the School for the Blind’s expansion.

We are grateful toState Delegate Cheryl D. Glenn, the 45thDistrict representative to the Maryland General Assembly, and Barbara Jackson, President of the Frankford ImprovementAssociation, who met with the Archbishop of Baltimore, Archbishop EdwinO’Brien , shortly after the Roundtables. At this meeting, Archbishop O’Brien stated that the application of the BIA was still “on the table”. At this date, it is the ONLYcredibleapplication.

BIA has expressed continued interest and has the financial ability to purchase and upgrade the building. The Parish received a fresh application fromthem and on their behalf, the parish made application to the Archdiocese. Webelieve we are fortunate that such an opportunity exists for use of this vacantbuilding, knowing it is a preferred use as expressed at the Roundtables.

The application has been sent to a recently formed committee that reviews and recommends approval of real estate sales and leases in the Archdiocese- RETAC - Real Estate Transaction Committee. Committee members, who are listed below, are now reviewing the application and gathering comments.

During all these deliberations, a funny thing happened to theschool building: it was in theMovies!! HBO approached the archdioceseand asked that it be used for an episode of their new comedy which will come outin the spring called “VEEP”, starringJulia Louis- Dreyfus. It was exciting having Hollywood on our doorstep. For a few days, some of you thought you hadmoved to the Westside as the school was renamed “Westside Academy”for the week! (Not to mention the‘village’ that grew on the parking lot!!)

Now a big request: you canhelp accelerate approval of the time sensitive BIA application. If you are in agreement with the applicationof the Charter School,

we invite you to ADD YOURVOICE! Send a letter or e-mail outliningyour wish for the building to be used as a school, such as the BIA. Pleasefeel free to write from your heart,make your thoughts known, especially yourhopes for the community, the school’s influence in the past and how this Charter School will affect the future of our community. Of course, time is of the essence, so it isimportant to write within the week.

We are sincerely grateful for your participation, interest, support and voice on behalf of our community. We will keep you updated.

Sincerely,

Community RoundtableCommittee

THE FOLLOWING ARETHE ADDRESSEES TO WHICH LETTERSSUPPORTING THE PURCHASE OF THE MOTHER MARY LANGE SCHOOL BUILDING BY THE BIA CANBE SENT.

Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien, D.D BishopDenis Madden, D.D, V.G

Apostolic Administrator andchair of RETAC Auxiliary Bishop and UrbanVicar

Archdiocese of Baltimore Archdioceseof Baltimore

320 Cathedral Street, 320 Cathedral Street

Baltimore, MD 21201 Baltimore, MD 21201

archbishop@archbalt.org nvicar@archbalt.org

Monsignor Richard W. Woy MonsignorRobert Hartnett

Vicar General, ExecutiveDirector

Archdiocese of Baltimore Officeof research and Planning

320 Cathedral Street, Archdioceseof Baltimore

Baltimore, MD 21201 320 Cathedral Street,

wvicar@archbalt.org Baltimore, MD 21201

bob.hartnett@archbalt.org

Mark Pacione,

Office of Research andPlanning

Archdiocese of Baltimore, -----------------> Mark is an alumnus of St. Anthony’s School

320 Cathedral Street, and grew up in the neighborhood.

Baltimore, MD 21201 mpacione@archbalt.org

Belair Road Revitlization

2011-12-01T11:29:00.001-05:00

December, 2011

Below is the content of the December issue of the Compass Newsletter detailing the release of the TAP study for the Revitalization of Belair Rd. The full report can be found at this link.

A Message from the Director…

As we begin to look forward to the new year, I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of the citizens, elected officials, business leaders, developers, non-profit organizations and partners for helping us make Baltimore a better, safer and stronger City in 2011.

As part of this collective effort, I am very pleased to share with you the recent release of “Revitalizing the Belair Road Corridor” a study by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) of Baltimore that was the result of a Department of Planning grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). The grant helped fund a unique partnership between ULI Baltimore, the City of Baltimore, and Baltimore County to collaboratively study and plan for the revitalization of Belair Road, a regional gateway corridor.

The report is already being used to help promote the revitalization and physical improvement of the corridor and surrounding communities, and we will continue to work with our partners in the City, the County and the Belair Road communities to implement the report’s strategies in 2012, and into the future.

I hope you’ll find the results of this report both interesting and promising. In the meantime, happy holidays and best wishes for a safe and prosperous new year.

Sincerely,

Thomas J. Stosur, Director

Planning by the Numbers…

When we compare the total amount of all retail sales in the Belair Road corridor study area, with the total amount of consumer spending by all residents of the study area, data reveals that approximately $233 million in spending “leaks” out of these Baltimore City and County communities every year.

Did you know…

In the 5 mile study area for the Belair Road TAP,the top land uses are:

Auto Related Businesses (12%),
Beauty Salons and/or Barbershops (12%),
Vacant Auto Dealerships (12%), and
Other Retail (11%),

And among the "other retail", the top land uses are:

Liquor Stores (18%)
Variety Stores (14%)
Second Hand Goods (12%)
Cell Phone Stores (8%)

Hot off the presses…

"Revitalizing the Belair Road Corridor: A ULI Advisory Services Technical Assistance Panel Report"

On Wednesday, November 16th, ULI Baltimore partnered with the City and County of Baltimore, to publicly release the ULI TAP report at the Maryland School for the Blind’s Jen C. Russo Arts Center. The ULI TAP Co-Chair, Matt D’Amico introduced Baltimore Mayor, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Baltimore County Executive, Kevin Kamenetz, who both expressed their support and gratitude for the hard work that went into developing strategies to revitalize the Belair Road corridor, one of the gateway corridors that link the County and the City.

During the event, Panelist Chuck McMahon provided an overview of the history of the corridor. He reviewed the corridor’s aging commercial infrastructure, its density of automotive land uses, and the challenges of commercial vacancies and underutilized commercial space.

Panelist Peter Garver’s presentation focused on development potential, highlighting the unique commercial nodes that surround major intersections and have an existing foundation for pedestrian oriented retail. It was proposed that these nodes, located at Belair-Erdman, Gardenville and Overlea, could be linked by redeveloping adjacent “opportunity areas” which were identified in the report. Mr. Garver also made recommendations for potential retail and residential development in these opportunity areas.

The overall recommendations included streetscape beautification, façade improvements, strengthening nearby residential neighborhoods, and the branding and marketing of the corridor and its nodes to the residents and the commuters that pass through daily.

Following a review of recommendations, planners Jill Lemke (Baltimore City) and Laurie Hay (Baltimore County), presented a brief overview of next steps being undertaken to implement the plan. For example, a non-profit partnership has applied for Community Investment Tax Credits which will allow businesses and individuals to donate to the effort and by doing so, earn tax credits of more than 50% of the value of the contribution. The funds generated could be used to fund a detailed market study and other revitalization projects. In addition, a number of transportation improvement projects were outlined, including a commitment from Mayor Rawlings Blake to fund a Complete Streets strategy for the corridor.

At the conclusion of the presentations several community residents pledged their continued support for the redevelopment of the Belair Road corridor and offered to continue working with the City and County on future programs and planning efforts.

The Belair Road TAP

Planning for the Belair Corridor

In March 2011, the Planning Department partnered with the Baltimore County Department of Planning, TND Planning Group and the Urban Land Institute (ULI) of Baltimore for a two day study of the Belair Road Corridor. The study area runs from Sinclair Lane on the southern edge, to the I-695 beltway in Baltimore County.

The event was part of the ULI Baltimore Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) program which provides expert, multidisciplinary advice on land use and real estate issues facing communities in the Greater Baltimore Region. Similar to ULI District Councils throughout the country, ULI Baltimore utilizes its broad membership to offer objective and responsible advice to local governments, stakeholders and organizations.

During the Baltimore TAP nine ULI panelists studied development issues and opportunities along the corridor, drawing on their experiences in real estate, retail development, transportation, architecture, economics and urban design.

The study focused on the following questions:

How can the corridor be revitalized to reduce commercial vacancies and attract new retail?
How can traffic and transportation challenges be addressed along the corridor?
What strategies could be used to create active nodes at major intersections?
How can we develop a cohesive branding strategy and streetscape identity, while maintaining the unique qualities of each node?
What can the City and County do to alter the perceptions of the corridor?

On the first day of the TAP, which was held at St. Anthony’s of Padua, the panelists took a bus tour of the study area to see the various retail nodes and large vacant parcels. After the tour, panelists interviewed over 30 stakeholders from the County and City in focus groups that included elected officials, homeowners, business owners, and community organizations.

During the second day of the event, the City and County Planning Departments and the panelists collaborated to outline a draft report. The process culminated with an evening presentation by ULI staff to stakeholders in St Anthony’s main sanctuary. Each of the ULI panelists gave a brief presentation on what they saw as the strengths and weaknesses for development along the corridor. Staff presentations highlighted the future development potential in the area and responded to follow-up questions from the audience. ULI panelists left the event with additional information and research they used in developing the final TAP Report.

December Meeting

2011-11-27T21:08:00.001-05:00

A copy of the December Newsletter can be found at the link below. Our meeting will be held at Harbel at 7:45 PM on December 7th.

December Newsletter

Thanksgiving Day & Mandatory Furlough Day Closings

2011-11-22T09:44:00.001-05:00

Director Alfred H. Foxx reminds Baltimore City residents that, since Thanksgiving Day is a City holiday, Department of Public Works’ offices and yards will be closed on Thursday, November 24, 2011, a holiday; offices will also be closed on Friday, November 25, a Mandatory Furlough day.

On Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 24:

Trash and recycling, both curbside and City containers WILL NOT BE COLLECTED.
Saturday, November 26, 2011, will be the make up collection day for trash and recycling in those areas that are regularly scheduled for pick up on Thanksgiving Day.
There WILL BE NO BULK TRASH collection scheduled.
Citizen drop off centers WILL BE CLOSED (all yards including Quarantine Road Landfill, the Northwest Transfer Station and the Eastern, Western and Northwestern Sanitation Yards).
All City buildings WILL BE CLOSED.
Parking meters WILL NOT be in effect.

On the Mandatory Furlough day – Friday, November 25:

Trash and recycling, both curbside and City containers, WILL BE COLLECTED as regularly scheduled.
There WILL BE NO BULK TRASH collection scheduled.
Citizen drop off centers WILL BE CLOSED (all yards including Quarantine Road Landfill, the Northwest Transfer Station and the Eastern, Western and Northwestern Sanitation Yards).
All City buildings WILL BE CLOSED with the exception of the Police Headquarters complex. Citizens will be unable to pay City bills or obtain permits at City offices. Some bills can be paid online; please visit www.baltimorecity.gov.

Bulk Collection is still FREE

2011-11-05T10:26:00.002-04:00

Curbside Bulk Collection is currently provided to Baltimore City residents at no additional charge. The service will remain FREE through June 30, 2012. A fee for service WILL NOT be instituted on January 1, 2012.

Budget challenges continue to drive the evaluation of all services for efficiency. Bulk Collection is being reviewed and a fee for this premium service is being considered. A fee will not be implemented before July 1, 2012. City residents will be given advance notice of any changes to service.

To schedule bulk collection, residents must call 311 at least three days in advance of their communities’ regular bulk collection day, and place no more than three items for pick up.

Foam Polystyrene (Styrofoam) Recycling to Begins Today!

2011-11-04T08:02:00.002-04:00

WHO: Dart Container Corporation and the Baltimore City Department of Public Works.

WHAT IS NEW? New for Baltimore! Foam polystyrene (Styrofoam) Recycling! Accepting CLEAN polystyrene (#6) foam foodservice items (such as foam cups, foam plates, and foam egg cartons), as well as foam protective packaging typically used to protect consumer goods and electronics at the Citizens Convenience Center at Sisson Street ONLY!

WHEN: Beginning Friday, November 4, 2011 – regular hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon. – Sat.; Summer hours (Memorial Day through Labor Day are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mon. – Sat.

WHERE: Northwest Citizens’ Convenience Center, 2840 Sisson St., Baltimore, MD 21218

HOW:

Must bring to Citizens Convenience Center at Sisson Street ONLY! This is NOT a curbside recycling program.
Make sure clean foam has the #6 symbol on it
Rinse cups/containers
No straws, lids, tap or stickers
No foam peanuts or insulation material
Must be brought in see-through plastic bags (FREE bags made available on site by Dart while supplies last)

WHY: Dart is working to collect a variety of foam products and help the City divert waste from disposal. Through this, and similar programs nationwide, the company is helping to raise awareness of the recyclability of foam. The collection and transport of materials are provided at no charge to the City, eliminating costs associated with this recycling expansion.

Increase in Auto Theft in Northeast Baltimore

2011-11-03T15:38:00.003-04:00

The police of the Northeast District have noticed a recent increase in automobiles being stolen in Northeast Baltimore. Here are some tips that might prevent your car from being stolen. Please note that as the weather becomes chillier it is illegal to start your car and leave it unattended to warm it up when you leave your home.

HOW TO PREVENT STOLEN AUTOS

Always lock your car

Do not leave your keys in your car

Do not leave your car running and unattended

Leaving your car running and unattended is actually illegal and you can potentially receive a traffic ticket for doing it
If you report your car as stolen to the Baltimore City Police and you left it unattended and running, you will more than likely receive a moving citation.

Use a steering wheel locking device such as the “Club”

Consider having a “kill switch” installed

This is a switch that is placed somewhere in the interior of the car that when in the off position does not permit your car to be started by turning of the key or the forcing of the ignition switch

WATCH YOUR CAR

WATCH YOUR CAR is a national vehicle theft prevention program funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance Office of Justice Programs, United States Department of Justice. It is a voluntary vehicle registration program designed to deter auto theft and assist in the apprehension of auto thieves. Vehicle owners sign an agreement stating their vehicle is not normally used between the hours of 1:00am and 5:00am. If a police officer observes the vehicle being driven anywhere in the United States during these hours, they may stop the vehicle and verify the vehicle owner is operating it, or a person designated by the owner.
The Watch Your Car Program is administered by the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council and is provided as a public service, free of charge, to owners of vehicles registered in the State of Maryland.
To register your vehicle(s) in WATCH YOUR CAR set your internet browser to: http://www.mdautotheft.org/wyc/wycapplication.cfm and complete the online application

November Meeting

2011-10-31T09:03:00.002-04:00

A copy of the November Newsletter can be found at the link below. Our meeting will be held at Harbel at 7:45 PM on November 2nd. We will have our annual election for the WIA board of directors at this meeting.

November Newsletter

October Meeting and Newsletter

2011-10-03T08:56:00.002-04:00

A copy of the October Newsletter can be found at the link below. Our next meeting is our Annual Pot Luck Dinner it will be held at the Bmore Lounge on 5616 Belair Rd on Wednesday, October 5th at 7:30 PM. Please bring your favorite dish to share with your neighbors.

October Newsletter

Lauraville Fair Postponed to Oct 1st

2011-09-23T08:05:00.002-04:00

Due to the forecast for rain, the Lauraville Fair has been postponed until next Saturday, October 1st.

Greater Lauraville Fair 9/24

2011-09-19T09:02:00.001-04:00

The Greater Lauraville Fair is this Saturday 9/24 at Heinz Park (by the intersection of Walther and Harford). It runs from 12 PM to 6 PM.

September Meeting and Newsletter

2011-09-03T10:41:00.003-04:00

Our September community meeting will be held at Harbel (5807 Harford Rd) on Wednesday, September 7th at 7:45 PM.

A copy of our Newsletter can be found at the link below:
http://www.scribd.com/fullscreen/63869481?access_key=key-1tmglszxtwojhjm6khrj

Hurricane Irene

2011-08-25T16:25:00.002-04:00

As I'm sure many of you are aware, Hurricane Irene is expected to affect Baltimore and other major cities in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions this weekend. Maryland has declared a state of emergency in anticipation of the storm.

Now is a good time to fill your car's gas tank and stock up on canned food, first aid supplies, drinking water, and medications. Also please be aware that parking restrictions may be in effect this weekend in neighborhoods such as Fells Point depending on the forecast of storm surges and flood predictions.

Below is a link to the Emergency Management page on the City's website that includes tips for Hurricane Preparedness from the Red Cross.

http://baltimorecity.gov/OfficeoftheMayor/MayoralOffices/EmergencyManagement/HazardsInBaltimore/HurricanesStormsandFlooding.aspx#tipsprep

Bmore Lounge request for Live Entertainment

2011-08-24T11:48:00.002-04:00

The B'more Lounge at 5616 Belair Road has put in a request for Live Entertainment. Please let us know if you have any opinions on this request.

August Newsletter

2011-08-01T03:15:00.004-04:00

Our next community meeting is scheduled for 7:45 PM at Harbel (5807 Harford Rd) on Wednesday August 3rd.

Our August newsletter can be found at the link below:
http://www.scribd.com/fullscreen/61346953?access_key=key-j3cschu6sh3bssr143k

Zoning Appeal for 4709 Belair Road

2011-07-22T12:31:00.004-04:00

A request has been put into zoning requesting permission to set up a repair garage at 4709 Belair Road in conjunction with the existing car dealership at that location. The wording of the appeal is to "USE A PORTION OF THE PREMISES AS A GARAGE FOR SERVICE, REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE OF MOTOR VEHICLES IN CONJUNCTION WITH EXISTING MOTOR VEHICLE SALES AND AUTO ACCESSORY STORE WITH INSTILLATION SERVICE".

This exists on the east side of Belair Road on the Frankford neighborhood's side. If anyone in Waltherson has any concerns about this request please let us know. A hearing will be held on August 16th at 1:30 PM at Room 215, City Hall, 100 N. Holliday Street regarding this request.

Burglaries in the Northeast

2011-07-21T13:13:00.001-04:00

Urgent Message Concerning Burglaries in Northeast Baltimore from Major Darryl DeSousa, the Commanding Officer of the Northeast District particularly concerning the Lauraville, Hamilton Hills, and Westfield communities.

The police are finding that burglars are posing as lawn care personnel. They then wait until the victim goes to work and burglarize the house

They are suggesting that you attempt to use lawn care providers that you know
If you agree to let someone you do not know cut your lawn, make sure you ask and receive photo identification and that you record their full name, address, and date of birth

The police believe that burglars are posing as home repair contractors

They are asking, if you see work vans in your area, you call 911.
The police are finding many large items such as big screen TV’s are being taken in recent burglaries, and they believe that burglars are using vans and box trucks to transport these items out of the area.

Zoning Appeal for Visions Catering

2011-07-11T18:52:00.004-04:00

Visions Catering, a catering company located at 5503 Richard Ave and 3008 Hamilton Ave along Waltherson's northern boundary is appealing to the Board of Municipal Zoning Appeals (BMZA) to continue to use 5503 Richard Avenue for a catering establishment and a banquet facility, and to continue to use the lower level for a child development center. They intend to leave the portion of the property at 3008 Hamilton Avenue unoccupied. A hearing date is scheduled for Tuesday, August 2nd 2011 at 1 PM in Room 215 at City Hall.

The hearing date falls on the day before our next scheduled community meeting. If you would like more details and information, you may see the related documents by searing for 5503 Richard at the following link:

http://cels.baltimorehousing.org/Search_BMZA_Map.aspx

If you have any questions or concerns about this request, or have difficulty finding these documents, please feel free to e-mail president@waltherson.org.

Citywide E-mail / Text alerting

2011-07-01T08:45:00.000-04:00

From the mayor's office:

Today, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced a new citywide email and text alert subscription service for Baltimore City residents to receive important updates and alerts from city agencies. The new service begins today first with the Baltimore Police Department and will provide important text and email alerts for issues related to public safety and crime.

Residents can sign up to Baltimore Police Department alerts by individual police districts and neighborhoods if desired. “I am very pleased to be able to provide this new service to Baltimore City residents so they are able to stay informed about important public safety issues and other city services,” said Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. “This new system is an important addition to our efforts to improve transparency and communication with the citizens of Baltimore using technology and social media.”

“I encourage all of our neighborhood residents to participate in this new service,” said Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld, III. “Mayor Rawlings-Blake and I are deeply committed to continuing to improve communications between the Baltimore Police Department and the community.”

To subscribe to the service and obtain updates from the Baltimore Police Department.

A Call for Artists

2011-05-16T09:51:00.001-04:00

There are several exciting art-related projects coming up in our neighborhood. If you are interested in taking part in any of these projects, please contact me by email and I will add you to a list to keep you informed. The best email to use is regina@hamiltonlauravillemainstreet.org.

Street murals - #1 Sunflower with compass - This mural is to be painted on Sunday, June 5th during the next Indie 900' Downhill Derby. The mural will be painted in the intersection of Hamilton Avenue & Harford Road. The derby will run from 9-3. The mural painting will start no later than 8am (hopefully sooner).
Street murals - #2 Market fruits & veggies - will be painted during the Lauraville Business Association's Block Party on Sunday, June 26th. This mural will be painted inside the crosswalk from Safeway's parking entrance across Harford Road to Montebello Terrace.
Open Studio Tour - On Wednesday evening, many local artists met with representatives of BOPA to discuss new plans for the Open Studio Tour on October 22 & 23 from 10am-6pm each day. New this year: Open Studio Tour Community Spotlight - Hamilton-Lauraville!! An opening gallery reception will be planned on Harford Road in the Main Street area. If you would like more information on the Open Studio Tour, check this website for detail: www.baltimoreopenstudiotour.com or www.school33.org. If you want to be involved in making this project really successful, please email me with a subject line of "Open Studio."

As information becomes more available, it will be posted on the HLMS website, blog & Facebook.

www.BmoreMainStreet.com

www.hamiltonlauravillemainstreet.blogspot.com

GHEMS garden and community event

2011-05-05T11:31:00.002-04:00

Northeast Baltimore Community Event

A Celebration of Building the New Community Garden

Garrett Heights Elementary/Middle School

Volunteer Opportunity:

Building a Community Garden

Monday- Friday; May 9-13, 2:30-4:30 PM

Garrett Heights Elementary School

2800 Ailsa Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21214.

Thanks to grants from PNC, the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts, and Healthy Neighborhoods, Inc., the Neighborhoods of Greater Lauraville, Inc. and the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Social Work have partnered with Garrett Heights Elementary/Middle School to build a community garden.

Together we can help the students of Garrett Heights Elementary/Middle School build a more beautiful school, a greener Baltimore and a stronger neighborhood. Bring your friends, family and gardening tools to the school between 2:30PM and 4:30PM any or every day, Monday-Friday; May 9-13. All ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate.

Blue Water Baltimore has helped us pick crops that will be sustainable and provide beautiful sights and smells. Please lend a hand and help complete the garden!!!

Celebrate the Community and the New Garden at Garrett Heights!

This event on Saturday, May 14 from 10:30 pm – 1:00 pm is free and open to the public and will honor the hard work of the students of Garrett Heights and the neighborhoods that surround it. It will also be fun for the whole family. Come enjoy our garden. It has made the students very proud and they look forward to sharing it.

Saturday, May 14, 10:30 AM-1:00 PM

Garrett Heights Elementary/Middle School

2800 Ailsa Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21214.

The event begins at 10:30am with a yoga demonstration by Lifeline Power Yoga. The students of Garrett Heights will then read poems about their experiences building a community garden. Activities for all ages will include gardening, flower pot painting, and more. There will be complimentary food and beverages provided by local businesses.

There is a direct relationship between the quality of neighborhoods and the quality of schools. Improving either one has a profound impact upon the other. This garden offers a public space to be enjoyed by the whole neighborhood. It has been led by a student committee and seeks to be built by volunteer residents, parents, and students. It teaches the students fundamental lessons about biology, community and the environment. It also helps to give the neighborhood pride in its school.

MTA Proposed Service Adjustments Hearings

2011-05-03T19:29:00.000-04:00

The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) will host three public hearings regarding proposed bus service adjustments. The hearings will take place May 18^th and May 19^th. Interested citizens may attend the hearings or submit written comments via postal mail or email. Written comments may be submitted until 5 pm, Monday, June 20^th.

The MTA gives notice of three public hearings concerning proposed service adjustments to the following Local Bus routes: Nos. 3, 15, 19, 27, 29, 35, 44, 47, 52, 57, 58, 61, 77, 97, and 99 that may become effective on or about June 26, 2011 as follows:

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

State Center Office Complex, Auditorium

300 West Preston Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

Access via MTA Bus Nos. 19, 21 and 91; Metro Subway; and Light Rail

12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

The Center for Urban Families

2201 North Monroe Street

Baltimore, MD 21217

Access via MTA Bus Nos. 1, 5, 7, and 21

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Days Inn

5701 Baltimore National Pike

Baltimore, MD 21228

Access via MTA Bus Nos. 77 and 150

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The full text of the proposed service adjustments is available for public review in the lobby of the William Donald Schaefer Tower at 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21202.

Proposed changes to Waltherson's Bus Routes:

Route 15 (Belair Rd)
Security Square Mall - Walbrook Junction - Overlea

All eastbound local service to terminate at Overlea
Express service to Perry Hall will continue as scheduled
Expand Route 58 service to operate to White Marsh
Improve Peak Service to operate every 12 minutes

Route 19 (Harford Rd)
Carney - State Center

To alleviate overcrowding, provide additional trips for AM peak service inbound and just prior to PM peak outbound.

Route 44 (Echodale Ave)
Security Square Mall - Social Security - Rosedale Industrial Park

Adjust service frequency to 20 minutes
Every other trip will continue to short turn around at Rogers Ave Metro Subway Station

Details for all routes can be found at this link:
http://mta.maryland.gov/services/bus/schedule/June_2011_schedule_change.cfm?&printer=1

Waltherson May Newsletter

2011-05-01T08:37:00.000-04:00

The Waltherson Improvement Association meeting will be at Harbel (5807 Harford Rd) at 7:45 PM on Wednesday May 4th. We will have a representative from Homes for America out to do a presentation on a proposal they have for low income housing at St. Anthony's (located on Frankford Ave just east of Belair Rd) as well as a representative from the Department of Transportation to discuss their Safe Routes to Schools program.

For more details, you can see our newsletter at the following link:
http://www.scribd.com/full/54314382?access_key=key-1ykunbabl68ukcvui2k7

2011 Citizen Survey

2011-04-21T15:30:00.000-04:00

Below was information that was in Mayor Rawlings-Blake's newsletter. Please consider giving the city feedback on the quality of it's services.

"Through the end of May, the City of Baltimore is surveying residents about their satisfaction with City services. City departments use survey results to help them deliver services more effectively. A diverse cross-section of approximately 1,800 randomly selected residents will complete a telephone survey. If you are contacted to participate in the survey, please take a few minutes to provide your honest opinions about how we're doing in Baltimore. This year, there's also a separate online survey available."

Spring Clean-up at the Unity Urban Garden

2011-04-11T12:32:00.000-04:00

Participate in the Mayor’s Clean Up Day

at UNITY URBAN GARDEN

supported by Waltherson Improvement Association

Join in on the fun!

* mulch the grounds
* pick up general debris
* sift compost
* secure rain barrels

* erect a garden sign
* and much more!

WHERE: The corner of Southern and Schley Avenues
(4001 Southern Ave.) Baltimore, 21206

WHEN: Saturday, April 16, 2011 from 8am to 1pm

Please wear sturdy shoes and bring gloves.

Anyone who participates in the Mayor's Spring Cleanup can go to the EcoFestival located at Druid Hill Park afterwards for FREE burrito at Chipotle

For more information call:

443-220-3053 or 240-293-2530

Email: unityurbangarden@gmail.com

Spring Clean-up - Unity Urban Garden

2010-04-18T17:59:00.000-04:00

Below are pics from the Spring Clean-up efforts at the Unity Urban Garden located at 4001 Southern Ave on April 17th.

Spring Clean-Up - Biddison Cemetery

2010-04-18T17:56:00.000-04:00

Below are some pics of the clean-up efforts at the Biddison Cemetery at 3821 Forrester Ave on April 17th 2010.

Help Bring High-Speed Internet to Baltimore!

2010-03-17T17:40:00.003-04:00

Google Ultra-High-Speed Broadband for Communities

Google is planning to build ultra-high speed broadband networks in a small number of trial locations across the country. The search giant's plan is to invest a few billion dollars to provide a few lucky communities with a fiber-to-the-home broadband network offering speeds of one gigabit per second. This connection would be 2,000% faster than the fastest connection currently available to Baltimore residents!

Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake fully supports Baltimore’s bid for the high-speed service, seeing great potential to enhance economic development, education, and public safety. Students in Baltimore City Public Schools could benefit from high-speed Internet service to build on their progress—and bridge the digital divide in Baltimore. Our world-class medical institutions could see gains in lifesaving and life-enhancing medical technology and information sharing.

Google is asking local governments and residents to express their interest in the fiber optic trial, and to provide information about their community by completing a request for information by March 26, 2010.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Baltimore technology advocates have launched a website, BmoreFiber.com, which is documenting the extent of support for bringing the project to Baltimore. BmoreFiber.com needs the help of all Baltimore residents to attract Google’s investment in broadband fiber to Baltimore.

If you would like to see Google's ultra-high-speed broadband come to Baltimore, then go to the website, log in your location, and fill out a short questionnaire about your current Internet service. Community leaders are encouraged to submit a community response to the “Google Fiber for Communities” Request for Information. The responses on the BmoreFiber.com website will be submitted as part of the City’s application to Google, and this map will demonstrate the level of community support and the number of potential users.

A high-speed broadband network presents an outstanding opportunity for Baltimore. Across the city, community enthusiasm and support for Google's community broadband effort is growing.

Let's show Google that Baltimore is ready for ultra-fast broadband Internet service!

Lake Montebello Area Projects Informational Meeting

2010-03-03T10:01:00.002-05:00

Event: Lake Montebello Area Projects Informational Meeting

Date: March 11, 2010

Day of Week: Thursday

Time: 6-8 PM

Location: Baltimore City College Cafeteria, 3220 The Alameda

Due to the significant number of major projects occurring in the vicinity of Lake Montebello: The Argonne Drive Bridge, Montebello I Additions, Montebello II, The Harford Road Bridge, and Sewer Projects, the city is holding this informational meeting. Attendees will receive an overview of these projects and their questions will be answered by the Baltimore City Departments of Recreation and Parks, Public Works, Planning, and Transportation. For more information please contact Kurt Kocher at either 410-396-3500 or kurt.kocher@baltimorecity.gov.

45th District Night in Annapolis

2010-02-23T11:55:00.003-05:00

Monday March, 8, 2010 the 45th District will hold the Night in Annapolis with Senator Nathaniel J McFadden, Delegates Talmadge Branch, Cheryl Glenn and Hattie Harrison. The event will be held in the Casper Taylor House Office Building from 6 - 8 PM - a full dinner will be served and picture ID is needed for admittance. Buses leave Baltimore from the following locations:

Ashland Commons/Park View, 1715 E. Eager Street at 4:00pm

Chapel Green Community Association, 1007 N. Washington Street at 4:30pm

Oliver Multi-Purpose Ctr., 1400 E. Federal Street at 4:00pm

Fort Worthington Community Center, 2701 E. Hoffman Street at Kenhill at 4:30pm

Eastern District Police Station, 1600 Edison Hwy. at 4:00pm

First Church of God, 4801 Sipple Ave. at 4:30pm

Please RSVP to Delegate Glenn’s Office at 410-841-3257 by March 4, 2010

Change in Trash / Recycling pickup

2010-02-15T11:56:00.000-05:00

Due to the condition of the side roads trash collections will be taken from your closest accessible intersection to the trash truck. Please label your trash cans or recycling bins with your name or address. I would strongly encourage you not to place bags instead of your cans as animals can get to them and create an mess.

Report missed pickups AND LOCATIONS by calling 311 or e-mailing 311 athttps://baltimore.customerservicerequest.org/.

Baltimore City Department of Public Works

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Baltimore City Solid Waste Service

Resumes Tuesday, February 16, 2010

The Department of Public Works, Bureau of Solid Waste, announced today that both trash and recycling collections will resume Tuesday, February 16, 2010. Citizens are asked to place their regularly scheduled trash OR recycling at the end of the nearest street or alley or at an accessible central location determined by your community association president for pick up. Care should be taken not to block sidewalks, streets and alleys for vehicles and pedestrians.

Community Association Presidents may call 311 with accessible central locations whereregularly scheduled trash OR recycling will be placed for pick up. As always, citizens should call 311 for missed pick ups. The Bureau will continue to collect in this manner until full access to regular pick up locations is possible.

Citizen Drop-Off Centers are open to the public at their regular operational hours. Citizens can go to www.baltimorecity.gov or www.clearergreenbaltimore.com to find the nearest drop off center.

Bulk Trash pick up is cancelled for the week of February 15 through February 19, 2010.

As always, citizens are asked to properly contain trash in cans with tight-fitting lids to keep rats out and keep litter in its place.

PLEASE NOTE: Changing weather conditions expected for Monday, February 15 may alter planned sanitation operations. Citizens should continue to listen to and read local media for the latest updates and instructions from the Mayor and the Office of Emergency Management.

As citizens can safely do so, they should clear their sidewalks and then help their elderly and disabled neighbors do the same. It is also very important to clear areas around fire hydrants and storm drains to augment the continuing efforts of Public Works Water and Wastewater crews as they tackle the City’s 33,000 inlets. Daily thawing and melting snow can pool and freeze during the night causing large ice patches.

Most importantly, we thank Baltimore City’s citizens for their patience and perseverance as we work together to meet the challenges presented by these historic and unprecedented back-to-back storm events.

Contact:

Celeste Amato

Telephone: 410-545-6541

email: Celeste.Amato@baltimorecity.gov

Robert Murrow

Telephone: 410-545-6189

email: Robert.Murrow@baltimorecity.gov

COP Call to action NECOP Patrol - Wednesday January 13th

2010-01-06T10:49:00.003-05:00

The City of Baltimore would like to motivate residents around the city highlighting public safety efforts and ask that community groups galvanize their residents to schedule a Winter COP event in their neighborhoods. They know people go to sporting events, take part in parades and participate in other outdoor events this time of year despite the weather (Go Ravens.) We want residents to start the New Year off with this show of unity. The City of Baltimore is calling to action residents to join their local COP next Wednesday, January 13th at 7:30pm.

In response to this call for action, the NorthEast Citizens Patrol in partnership with the Northeast Police District wants to organize a special Wednesday night Patrol on January 13, 2010 at 7:30 PM. We know this is short notice, but if you or a member of your community would like to assist the NECOP in becoming a part of this special city wide event, please respond to the Northeast District on Wednesday, January 13th at 7:30 PM for a special Patrol by the NECOP.

RecycleMORE Competition

2009-12-28T16:18:00.000-05:00

Waltherson is a proud participant in the RecycleMORE Competition of Baltimore City. The competition will run from January 1st through March 10th and the community that recycles the most will win a block party. As always, please be mindful of your recycling and encourage your friends and neighbors to recycle as well.

Information and Alerts from the Baltimore Police Department

2009-10-30T11:35:00.000-04:00

The Baltimore Police Department is utilizing NIXLE to send information and alerts to the citizens it serves. They invite you to receive this information by registering with NIXLE. You can do this by:

To Register:
• Going to www.nixle.com
• Click “Register Now”
• Create an account by choosing a UserName & Password
• Enter an E-mail address and/or cell phone number what you would like to receive messages
• Enter you address (or a nearby intersection)
• Click “Sign Me Up” – and you are done

To Customize your account and get Information and Alerts from the Baltimore Police:
• Log in at www.nixle.com
• Click “Settings”
• Click on the box that will subscribe you to the Baltimore Police Department
• Click “Save”

You will now receive information and alerts from the Baltimore Police at either by E-mail or through your cell phone or both, as you have designated.

*From Harbel news*

City-Wide Initiative to Remove Abandoned Vehicles Now (RAVN)

2009-10-08T08:48:00.003-04:00

“The city will aggressively look for and remove vehicles abandoned on public or private property,” said Mayor Dixon. “Left in alleys, empty lots and on our streets by irresponsible car-owners, these vehicles are unsightly and hazardous. Removing these hazards and eyesores will make Baltimore’s communities safer and cleaner for the residents.”

Most commonly, an abandoned vehicle is an unlicensed vehicle on public or private property. Citizens are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to report abandoned vehicles in their community, or you can report them via E-mail to the officers of the Northeast District Community Relations Unit:

Sgt. Chris Tserkis at chris.tserkis@baltimorepolice.org
Officer Dave Blumberg at david.blumberg@baltimorepolice.org,
Officer Joe Banks at Joseph.Banks@baltimorepolice.org ,
or Officer Rebecca Ward at Rebecca.Ward@baltimorepolice.org

On a weekly basis code enforcement officers will identify abandoned vehicles. DOT has coordinated with the Baltimore City Police Department to identify areas where vehicles are most frequently abandoned. They will work in traditionally problematic neighborhoods and with the help of tips from citizens. For vehicles on public property, the City will complete the legal process and tow the vehicle within five days. For vehicles on private property, it will take up to 15 days to complete the process and tow the derelict vehicle.

The City is partnering with Vehicles for Change to provide City residents an opportunity to dispose of an unwanted vehicle free of charge. To donate a car to Vehicles for Change, residents can call 1-800-835-3821. Vehicles for Change is a local non-profit whose mission is to help low-income families achieve financial and personal independence by making it possible for them to own a vehicle. More information on Vehicles for Change can be found on their website,
www.vehiclesforchange.org

*Information from Harbel.*

Burglary Prevention Tips

2009-10-07T09:22:00.000-04:00

Here are some tips concerning Burglary Prevention that was sent out by Mike Hilliard of the Harbel organization:

1. Doors secured with single cylinder deadbolts. Mail and newspapers
are not accumulating on the porch or in front of home.

2. Windows locked. In 70% of the burglaries committed in Northeast
Baltimore entrance is gained via a rear or side window.

3. Keep Blinds and Shades closed. Do not leave your wallet, car keys,
or other valuables in plain view

4. Trees and shrubs are trimmed short enough so that all windows and
doors are visible from the street and people cannot hide behind them.

5. When leaving the house for vacation, lights are connected to timers
that go on and off during evening hours. Newspapers and mail are being
held and are not accumulating on the lawn, porch, and steps

6. Front and rear porch lights are left on throughout the night so
that the front and back of the house is constantly lit and visible.

7. If you are out of your home, leave radios on at the front and back
doors of your house that are tuned to a talk radio station, and if you
are away for an extended period of time, place the radios on timers.

8. If you see suspicious persons walking down the street with unboxed
TV’s or computers, leaving a neighbor’s home, or entering the rear
window of your neighbor’s home. Call 911.

9. It has been learned the burglars often survey or case their targets
by posing as either carpenters or home repair persons. They also
have been known to call their targets by phone to determine when they
are not home, and they will hang up immediately if you answer the
phone.

10. If you are going away for a period of time, call the Northeast
District at 410-396-2444 and ask the police pay special attention to
the home while you are away.

11. Engrave your valuables with your Maryland Driver’s License Number
known as your Soundex Number

12. The interview of a burglar charged with numerous burglaries in
Northeast Baltimore revealed silent alarms did not deter him.
However, if he activated an audible alarm when he entered his target,
he fled immediately. If you install an alarm, consider ensuring it
has an audible alarm component.

You can borrow an engraver to engrave your property with your driver’s
license or Soundex Number by calling the Northeast Police District
Community Relations Unit at 410-889-6499 or E-mailing Sgt. Chris
Tserkis at chris.tserkis@baltimorepolice.org Officer Dave Blumberg at
david.blumberg@baltimorepolice.org, Officer Joe Banks at
Joseph.Banks@baltimorepolice.org., or Officer Rebecca Ward at
Rebecca.Ward@baltimorepolice.org

Harford Senior Center is Closing

2009-09-28T14:48:00.005-04:00

The Harford Senior Center at 4920 Harford Rd. will be closing on October 30th due to City Budget cuts. This Senior Center has provided services such as free health care, flu shots, social work services, tax aid, a polling station, service to the homeless, and housed the Northeast Food Pantry. I am told that this is the only senior center in the whole Northeast district and many of our neighbors are very concerned about losing it.

The following is a letter written by a Waltherson resident, named Tamara, that you can use as a template to notify your elected officials if you share this concern. Contact information can be found at the bottom of the post. I'd like to thank Sarah Miranda, another Waltherson resident, for forwarding the information along.

Update: Sarah has been urged to tell everybody that since local and state funding is basically nil, we should also involve our federal elected officials and let them know that the only Senior Center/Food Pantry in NE Baltimore is closing. I have added the additional contact info below.

---------------------------------------------------------

Addressee
Addressee’s Address

Dear _____________________:

I am disappointed that the City Council is ending its financial support to the Harford Senior Center resulting in the center’s closure. This is especially troubling because the Center hosts and houses the North East Food Pantry, which will also close. The City of Baltimore has an obligation to assist its most vulnerable and least mobile residents and closing this center and the onsite food pantry falls short of this duty. I know that you are empowered to do better. Please lend your support to ensure that this vibrant and important Center remains open to serve the elderly residents of the North East community.

This Center is important because it is the only one of its kind in North East Baltimore. The elderly population that it serves is limited, not only by income, but by health and mobility and would not be able to access that many important services that the Center provides if the plans to close it come to fruition. Additionally the food pantry located within the center serves some of the areas neediest families in a time when an unprecedented number of residents are in need of assistance to meet their most basic need of feeding their families. In response to these economic times everyone needs to change their priorities to ensure that those with the least are protected. Thanks you for your help.

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip

---------------------------------------------------------

Contact info:

Congressman John Sarbanes
3rd Congressional District (home to the Senior Center/Food Pantry)
Towson Office
Ste. 303
Towson, MD 21204
Phone 410-832-8890
email through http://sarbanes.house.gov/consituent.asp

Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger
2nd Congressional District
District Office
375 W. Padonia Rd.
Ste. 200
Timonium, MD 21093
Phone 410-628-2701
email through http://dutch.house.gov/writedutch_za.shtml

Senator Barbara Mikulski (a strong advocate of record on senior issues!)
Baltimore Office
1629 Thames St.
Ste. 400
Baltimore, MD 21231
Phone 410-962-4510
email through http://mikulski.senate.gov/Contact/contact.cfm

Senator Benjamin L. Cardin
Baltimore Office
100 S. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone 410-962-4436
email through http://cardin.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm

Volunteers of America Chesapeake
7901 Annapolis Road
Lanham, MD 20706
Phone: 301-459-2020

Robert Curran, City Council District 3
Room 553, City Hall
100 N. Holliday St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4812
Robert.Curran@baltimorecity.gov (but phone or mail is better)

Nicholas D'Adamo, Jr., City Council District 2
Room 525, City Hall
100 N. Holliday St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4808
Nicholas.D'Adamo@baltimorecity.gov

Mary Pat Clarke, District 14
Room 550, City Hall
100 N. Holliday St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4814
MaryPat.Clarke@baltimorecity.gov

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, City Council President
Room 400, City Hall
100 N. Holliday St.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4804
CouncilPresident@baltimorecity.gov

Brandon Scott, Community Outreach Assistant for the City Council President
Phone: 410-396-4804
Brandon.Scott@baltimorecity.gov
(He's a good person to contact because NE Baltimore is his territory!)

Mayor Sheila Dixon
Room 250, City Hall
100 N. Holliday Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Phone: 410-396-3835
mayor@baltimorecity.gov

Kristy Taylor, Liaison for the neighborhoods of Northeast Baltimore
The Mayor's Office of Neighborhoods
Phone: 410-396-4735
Kristy.Taylor@baltimorecity.gov

Baltimore City CERT

2009-09-28T08:11:00.000-04:00

We need at least 10 volunteers to start training for a Baltimore City CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) team here in Waltherson. The mission of the CERT program according to their website is "to prepare Teams of Baltimore City Citizens to identify Vulnerabilities in their communities, to educate their communities in Emergency Preparedness, and to train and respond to major emergencies or disasters within Baltimore City."

With a team, our community would be better equipped if a disaster would occur in the Baltimore area that would overcome traditional city services. If you are interested in helping, please look over the CERT website and e-mail me to help out.

NECOP Training moved to Thursday

2009-09-25T15:40:00.002-04:00

I previously posted about a NECOP training session which has been rescheduled for Thursday October 1st.

Join us at the Harbel Building (5807 Harford Rd) on Thursday, October 1st at 7:30 PM. A training session will be held from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Please come out and learn about the program.

Free Flu Shots

2009-09-23T08:37:00.000-04:00

2009-2010 ACE Coalition &
Baltimore City Health Department
Flu Clinic Schedule
Free Flu Shots
Immunize Against the Flu for a Happier, Healthier You!

Medicare Part B Pays for the Flu Shot
Don’t Forget Your Medicare Card
Baltimore City Health Department
Bureau of Child Health & Immunizations
Questions: 410-396-4454

October 2009

Friday, October 2; 9 am - 1 pm
Waxter Center for Senior Citizens
1000 Cathedral St - 21201

Wednesday, October 14; 10 am - 2 pm
Lexington Market
400 W Lexington St - 21201

Wednesday, October 21; 10 am - 4 pm
Baltimore Hebrew
7401 Park Heights Ave - 21208

Saturday, October 24; 10 am - 2 pm
Bethel AME Church
1300 Druid Hill Ave - 21217

Saturday, October 24; 10 am - 2 pm
First Corinthians Baptist Church
3512 Powhatan Ave - 21216

Friday, October 30; 10 am - 4 pm
The Hippodrome Theatre-Roll Up Your Sleeve Event
12 N Eutaw St - 21201

November 2009

Friday, November 6; 10 am - 2 pm
Enoch Pratt Public Library
400 Cathedral St - 21201

Tuesday, November 10; 10 am - 4 pm
Oriole Park at Camden Yards - Warehouse 6th fl
333 W. Camden St - 21201

Thursday, November 19; 10 am - 4 pm
Baltimore Hebrew
7401 Park Heights Ave - 21208

Friday November 20; 9 am - 1 pm
Waxter Center for Senior Citizens
1000 Cathedral St - 21201

December 2009

Wednesday, December 9; 10 am - 4 pm
Palladium
2900 Liberty Heights Ave - 21215

Friday, December 18; 9 am - 1 pm
Waxter Center for Senior Citizens
1000 Cathedral St - 21201

Friday, December 11; 10 am - 2 pm
Enoch Pratt Public Library
400 Cathedral St - 21201

Baltimore City Fire Department Thrill Show

2009-09-22T07:48:00.002-04:00

BALTIMORE CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT
ANNUAL THRILL SHOW

Saturday, October 3, 2009
11:00 a.m. till 4:00 p.m.
Baltimore City Fire Academy
6720 Pulaski Highway

The Thrill Show is held to promote fire safety and prevention within our communities as well as give the public a “bird’s eye” view and “close up” encounter of the work that our firefighters and EMS personnel perform every day to save lives and protect property in the City of Baltimore. The day will begin with various stunts to include a mock Automobile Fire with patient extrication. This re-enactment will provide an opportunity to actually see the “Jaws of Life” in action by members of our Rescue Team. There will also be a High Rise demonstration by our Special Rescue Operations Team who will perform a straight repel and rescue a victim from a multi-story building, a Firefighter Competition and a Christmas Tree fire. We will also have a Burn Cell demonstration (to se how fires start and rapidly spread), numerous static displays that highlight fire safety literature, Fire Engines and Trucks, Heavy Rescue Unit and specialty equipment along with Dive Team members, BCFD/Johns Hopkins Mobile Safety Center and the Baltimore Police Helicopter.

Additional attractions involve Fire Engine Rides, Emergency Medical Services personnel who perform blood pressure screenings, Hazardous Materials Unit, Moon Bounce and Ball Crawl for kids. There will also be Food and Fun for everyone in attendance.

To showcase additional resources and information, we will have on hand representatives from various City agencies available to provide brochures and literature about their respective agency’s operations and services to the public.

As fire prevention month (October) approaches, we use this time to place greater emphasis on fire safety and prevention and teach you how to protect yourselves, families and home from the dangers of fires.

Each year thousands of lives are claimed and billions of dollars are spent preventing, detecting and containing fires. You to can make a difference by increasing the fire safety measure in your home by following these fire safety tips;

• Properly install “Smoke Detectors” on every level of your home, test them monthly and replace the batteries at least twice a year.

• Create a fire escape plan for you and your family

• Don’t wear loose fit clothing while cooking and never leave food on the stove unattended

• Space heaters require space. Keep at least three feet between you and any heating device

• Kerosene heaters are illegal in Baltimore City and can be confiscated by the appropriate fire department personnel

• Fire places build up creosote in their chimneys and can be potential fire hazards.

Chimney’s should be cleaned and inspected for obstructions and cracks prior to use in order to avoid deadly fires.

The Baltimore City Fire Department would like to recognize and thank Maryland Association for Justice for their continued sponsorship and support. It is with their assistance that we have been able to promote fire safety, prevention and educational programs within our community. The Baltimore City Fire Department invites all City employees, their family’s and friends to join us at this year’s Annual Thrill Show. Please take advantage of this opportunity to learn about fire safety and prevention and meet representatives from your local fire department.

ADMISSION IS FREE TO EVERYONE AND PARKING WILL BE AVAILABLE!!!
“STAY FIRE SMART DON’T GET BURNED”
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK OCTOBER 4-10, 2009

For additional information, contact the Public Information Office at 410-396-5616 or log onto www.baltimorecity.gov-fire

Precautions for Safer Seniors - Stay Safe

2009-09-22T07:45:00.000-04:00

Below are some tips for seniors sent out by the City as part of the CGHS Ambassador program.

Make Your Home Safe and Secure

Install good locks on doors and windows. Use them! Don't hide keys in mailboxes and planters or under doormats. Instead, leave an extra set of keys with a neighbor or friend.
Ask for photo identification from service or delivery people before letting them in. If you are the least bit worried, call the company to verify.
Be sure your street address number is large, clear of obstruction, and well- lighted so police and other emergency personnel can find your home quickly.
Consider a home alarm system that provides emergency monitoring for burglary, fire and medical emergencies.

Watch Out for Con Artists

Don't fall for anything that sounds too good to be true - a free vacation, sweepstakes, prizes, cures for cancer and arthritis, a low risk high- yield investment scheme.
Never give your credi card, phone card, Social Security, or bank account number to anyone over the phone. It's illegal for telemarketers to ask for these numbers to verify a prize or gift.
Don't let anyone rush you into signing anything- an insurance policy, a sales agreement, a contract. Read it carefully and have someone you trust check it over.
Beware of individuals claiming to represent companies, consumer organizations, or government agencies that offer to recover lost money from fraudulent telemarketers for a fee.
If you're suspicous, check it out with the police, the Better Business Bureau, or your local consumer protection office. Call the National Consumers League Fraud Information Center at 800- 876-7060.

Note:

The Police Department Host the Baltimore City Police Explorers Program. This youth group is for children between the ages of 14-21. They work hand and hand with police officers, attend meetings and events and participate in community projects. Meetings are held in each district on Friday nights. For more information pleases give Officer Ward a call at the Northeast District 410-396-2444. If you happen to live outside the Northeast the other district numbers are below.

Central Dist-410-396-2411..(Off Fields)...Southeast Dist-410-396-2422..(Off. Tracey)....Eastern Dist.-410-396-2433(Off. Amous)...Northwest Dist. 410-396-2466.... (Off. Jackson)...Western Dist..410-396-2477..(Off. Crown)..Southwest Dist..410-396-2488..(Off. Robinson)..Southern Dist..410-396-2499..(Off Vault)

The Eastern District is having a 2 dollar movie night on September 25, 2009...Contact Officer Amos for Details..at 410-396-2433

NECOP Potluck Cookout

2009-09-16T08:32:00.002-04:00

For those participating or interested in NECOP, join us at Burdick Park for a potluck cookout from 1 PM to 4 PM on Saturday, October 17th. Bring some food or drinks you'd like to contribute and relax and enjoy yourself.

NECOP Training

2009-09-16T08:28:00.003-04:00

Anyone out there interested in NECOP? Join us at the Harbel Building (5807 Harford Rd) on September 29th at 7:30 PM. A training session will be held from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Please come out and learn about the program.

Free Blood Pressure Screenings

2009-09-10T08:14:00.002-04:00

The Baltimore City Fire Department is offering free Blood Pressure Screenings during the month of September from 6 PM to 9 PM. Screenings are available at your local Fire Department each day of the week throughout the month of September.

Graffiti Removal - Call to Action

2009-09-10T07:49:00.001-04:00

As a follow up to the last post, I've just been informed that through September 19th the City of Baltimore is having a call to action for Graffiti removal as part of the CGHS (Clean-Green-Health-Safe) Ambassador Program. If you see Graffiti, please call 311 and mention the community group Waltherson Improvement Association to participate. Sharing our community organization's name will allow them to track participation and totals for the call to action. As the City mentions in their e-mail, Graffiti is "an unsightly appearance and causes public safety concerns."

This is the first of a series of mini-initiatives from the City to handle a variety of different community issues such as removing graffiti, catching illegal dumpers, exercising more, signing-up residents for smoke detectors, planting trees, etc. Incentives for participation will include free clean-up equipment, up to (8) roll-offs, sporting event tickets or city attractions, recognition in a City newsletter (goes to more than 200 groups), and other incentives from time to time. I'm not sure what the specific incentive may be for the graffiti removal initiative but less graffiti is incentive enough for me.

Waltherson Graffiti Removal

2009-09-03T08:37:00.000-04:00

Waltherson was featured in an article on the Baltimore Sun's watchdog page about our efforts and occasional difficulties in getting Graffiti removed in our neighborhood. Remember you can easily report graffiti using 311 by either calling or using their web form.

10 minute litter clean-up Sat 8/15

2009-08-13T11:45:00.000-04:00

Spend 10 minutes picking up litter and cleaning up your neighborhood on Saturday and stop in to the Red Canoe located at 4337 Harford Rd. Tell them you worked on cleaning up the neighborhood for 10 minutes and they'll give you a regular sized coffee for free!

NECOP & the Online Calendar

2009-08-06T09:01:00.003-04:00

NECOP (the Northeast Citizens on Patrol) needs your support!

We go out Thursday, Friday and select Saturdays. The patrol starts at the Northeast District (1900 Argonne Drive) at 7:30 PM. You can stop patrolling whenever you need to or the police will call you in when it ends. You will have a police radio to stay in constant contact with the Police and they'll periodically check in with you. You also have the option of attaching a magnetic Citizens on Patrol sign to the top of your car so people are aware of what you are doing.

I've put a calendar up on the blog so you can easily see availability as well as other local events. Help us out by picking a day and sending me an e-mail at walthersonwatch@gmail.com and I'll mark the time as scheduled.

Two things to look out for on the patrols:

1. Suspicious activity - Anything that looks odd or makes you feel uncomfortable can be relayed directly to the Police.
2. 311 information - I'd recommend bringing a piece of paper and write down any potholes, graffiti or anything else you feel needs to be reported and send it off to 311. This can be done either by phone or using the web-link under Resources in the side bar.

Leave confrontation to the Police, do not investigate things yourself. Citizens on Patrol are the eyes and ears of the Police Department, relay what you see and move on. Remember, the patrols are designed to make us visible and send a message that we will not stand for crime in our community. Do not be discouraged if you are not seeing crime occurring. You are still sending a powerful message to criminals and your neighbors by helping us patrol.

For more information, check out our training manual here.

Free Smoke Detectors for City Residents

2009-08-05T08:04:00.000-04:00

All City residents are entitled to Smoke Detectors installed in their home by the Fire Department, completely free of charge. The Smoke Detectors installed by the City use batteries that are good for ten years without replacement.

Click here to request your free Smoke Detector today!

NECOP Annual Ride Against Crime

2009-07-13T09:32:00.000-04:00

Please join us for the NECOP Ride Around to celebrate the National Night Out Against Crime.

NorthEast Citizens’ Patrol

Annual Ride Around Celebration

on National Night Out Against Crime

Tuesday, August 4th , 6:30 PM at

Stadium Place at 900 E. 33rd St.

Sponsored by

Ednor Gardens
Lakeside Civic
Association

Come join the members of the NorthEast Citizens Patrol celebrate our 9th year anniversary at our annual Ride Around on “National Night Out” against crime.

We will gather at Stadium Place starting at 6:30 PM, and at 7:00 PM, we will ride through Northeast Baltimore in a police escorted motorcade. We will return to Stadium Place for a celebratory cookout sponsored by the Ednor Gardens Lakeside Civic Association and HARBEL.

Everyone is welcome to participate in this celebration of a 26% reduction in violent crime in Northeast Baltimore since the Patrol’s inception in January of 2000.

Welcome to the Waltherson Watch

2009-07-06T11:28:00.000-04:00

Hi all,

Rob Walshe here. After taking on the roles of NECOP coordinator and Safety Ambassador for the Waltherson neighborhood I decided to create a blog and facebook group to keep people informed regularly of safety issues and opportunities.

As you may know NECOP (Northeast Citizens on Patrol) patrols started up again for Waltherson in June. The patrols occur on Thursday and Friday nights starting at 7:30 PM at the Northeast District Police Station and typically end before 11 PM though participants do not have to stay out the entire duration of the patrol. There is also a Patrol scheduled for Saturday, July 18th and Saturday, August 1st. Please comment or contact me if you are interested.

I hope to have more information posted in the coming weeks.

~Rob