Citizen Spectators Wanted/Notes From City Council

UPDATE: Charm City Roller Girls Flock To Site
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Rawlings-Blake A Charm City Roller Girl?

As usual there was a lot going on at last night's weekly city council meeting. While we wish to increase civil awareness., it is impossible for one reporter to cover in detail the many and varied issues brought up at these meetings. Quite frankly, let it be officially known, we are openly seeking "citizen spectators." Volunteers, who as time enables, can attend various city government functions and meetings in areas of interest to them, and write a simple summary report and maybe take a few photos or video.

BALTIMORE SPECTATOR EXCLUSIVE

If you weren't at the meeting last night, you probably don't know that Baltimore's own President of The City Council, Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, openly declared to all in attendance at City Hall, that she is contemplating joining up with nationally famous Charm City Roller Girls! Now that I'd pay money to see. Of course, in a town with a lack of a comprehensive media, this was not reported anywhere except here. Oh, and did I mention today is her birthday. Happy Birthday Stephanie Rawlings-Blake.

In joining the roller league, she would be in fine company with previous council member politician/athletes. Former council member now mayor Sheila Dixon is a 3rd degree black belt, an avid bicyclist, and from what I hear, a boxer with a mean right hook, look out opposition! Former council member, then mayor, now Governor of Maryland Martin O'Malley pumps iron with a vengeance. Trust me, I've seen it with my own eyes.

We already know Madame President has a bit of a sporting side. Last September 11th, Rawlings-Blake along with a host of others from city government (see photo), and even yours truly, participated in a 5K Run/Walk to raise money for police and fire charities. I regretfully report to you, Baltimore Police Commissioner Frederick Bealefeld, a man older than me, soundly beat me and finished the run several minutes ahead of me. Commissioner, if you're listening, this year I want to challenge you to a rematch.

HELP US GET THE WORD OUT, BECOME A SPECTATOR

In an age where everyone, including our own Baltimore City Council is talking open government and transparency, we are not only hoping for our local elected officials to welcome this initiative, but perhaps even assist in it, or direct some of their constituents towards this 100% volunteer, not for profit, public information/public awareness endeavor.

In all of my years of observing government, both from the inside as an employee or contractor, and from the outside as a citizen, one of the things that bothers me the most is how little people seem to be aware of the process of government. People are quick to complain and call up their representatives when they have a problem, but the actual way the machine works is a mystery to most.

We welcome anyone interested in joining our crusade of shining a spotlight on local government to step up and be counted. Even if you only want to be a one time corespondent, that would be helpful too. So come on, don't just sit there, send me an email, tell your friends about this, suggest others you know take part.

Managing editor A.F. James MacArthur may be contacted by email; AF.JamesMacArthur@gmail.com or by calling 202-321-9203.