February 12, 1998

SHIPBREAKING
Mayor Kurt L. Schmoke announced his support for the Port of Baltimore becoming an operational center in the shipbreaking industry. The Mayor has written letters to the City's Congressional Delegation urging them to approach the U.S. Navy and the Federal Maritime Administration with the idea of making the Port of Baltimore an operational center for future shipbreaking activities. "I am convinced that a partnership between the City of Baltimore, the State of Maryland, and the federal government can be created that can conduct shipbreaking in an environmentally sensitive manner," said the Mayor. This effort, if successful, will result in thousands of jobs for the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland.

CURTIS BAY WATER TANK RENOVATIONS:
Mayor Schmoke announced plans to renovate the Curtis Bay Water Tank which serves the Curtis Bay and Brooklyn neighborhoods in the city. The project will include improvements to the domed roof, installation of new freeze proof vents, screens and ladders, cement work, painting and a new storm drainage system. The company contracted to do the work is Paint City Contractors of Baltimore. Renovations will take approximately 5 months to complete.

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SING, SING, SING A SONG!:
The Ninth Annual Billy Holiday Vocal Competition will be held Saturday, April 25 at the Walter's Art Gallery. The deadline for applications with audiotape is Friday, February 20. To obtain an application, call the Mayor's Advisory Committee on Art and Culture at 410-396-4575.

NO TRASH COLLECTION:
Mayor Schmoke reminded citizens that City Offices will be closed on February 13 and February 16 in observance of Lincoln's and Washington's Birthdays. This means there will be no collection of trash or recyclables on these holidays. However, parking meters will be in effect on both holidays and all posted regulations must be observed.

Mayor Schmoke's Press Briefings are aired in their entirety in Baltimore City on Cable Channel 21,every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For a schedule of times, contact the Mayor's Office of Cable & Communications at 410-396-1100.