Feathered Friends and Renewable Energy: The Rise of Wildlife-Friendly Wind Turbines

By: Victoria Smith

Wind turbines, celebrated for their potential to deliver clean and sustainable electricity, have come under scrutiny for their impact on birds and bats, prompting some opposition to new wind energy projects. 

Recent studies have illuminated the issue of bird fatalities at wind farms, with estimates varying widely. However, it’s important to note that these figures pale in comparison to the bird deaths caused by collisions with buildings and cars as well as the impacts of traditional fossil fuel operations. In fact, power lines and gas fields pose a significantly greater threat to avian populations than wind turbines.

Kevin Wolf, CEO of Wind Harvest, a maker of vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) for the understories of wind farms, said, “Three-dimensional VAWTs like ours are known to be more easily seen and avoided by birds than the traditional two-dimensional turbines.” 

Wind energy remains pivotal in combating climate change and moving towards sustainability. As Michael Howland, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at MIT, emphasizes, evaluating electricity generation technologies must consider their environmental and health impacts. While wind energy may pose risks to some bird and bat populations, the negative effects of fossil fuels on air quality, habitat destruction, and climate change far outweigh these concerns.

It’s crucial to explore solutions that balance expanding renewable energy capacity while minimizing harm to wildlife. This is where innovations in bird-safe wind turbines play a significant role. In addition to implementing strategies such as environmental impact studies, site surveys, and blade painting techniques, wind energy companies can reduce and mitigate risks to avian species with smart motion detection and deterrence technology. 

Benefits of Vertical Axis Wind Turbines:

• One study from the 1990s evaluated VAWTs in wind farms in the Altamont Hills near San Jose, California. It showed that two bladed Flowind VAWTS killed half the number of birds than were hit by blades from neighboring traditional turbines. 
• Ornithologists have suggested that birds may have an even easier time detecting and avoiding three bladed H-type VAWTs compared to traditional propeller-type turbines. They are more three-dimensional, and they have slower-moving blades.
• Slower-moving blades further enhance bird safety by providing birds and bats with additional time to detect and maneuver around the turbines.

Enter Wind Harvest, a pioneering company at the forefront of developing wildlife-friendly wind turbine solutions. 

By focusing on compact and efficient turbine designs that target turbulent mid-level winds, Wind Harvest offers a practical and sustainable approach to increasing energy outputs from existing wind farms. This reduces the need to convert more habitats into new wind farms.

Their innovative technologies, coupled with motion detection systems and a commitment to environmental stewardship, position Wind Harvest as a leading player in the drive toward a greener and more wildlife-friendly energy landscape.

As we all confront the urgent challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, it is imperative to embrace solutions that balance the need for renewable energy with wildlife conservation. With initiatives like Wind Harvest leading the way, we can harness the power of wind energy while safeguarding the natural world for future generations.

Published by: Martin De Juan

The Capital Rare Book Fair will bring 35+ antiquarian booksellers from across the country to the historic University Club at 1135 16th St NW in Washington, DC, from May 3rd to 5th, 2024.  Building on the success of last year’s Georgetown Rare Book Fair, Fine Book Fairs has moved the fair to a prestigious downtown location, just steps from the White House.

This year the fair will take over two floors in the illustrious mansion on Sixteenth Street and showcase thousands of beautiful, notable, and rare books, maps, and historic documents from around the globe. Exceptional examples that will be offered include Leaf twenty-seven of a forty-leaf xylographic Biblia pauperum, a picture bible from 1465 for $85,000 from Bruce McKittrick Rare Books; George Washington’s “Justice and Public Good” letter and one of Abe Lincoln’s signed checks from Seth Kaller Inc., an inscribed copy of John F. Kennedy’s “Profiles in Courage, Decisive Moments in the Lives of Celebrated Americans” from B & B Books, and a 17th century map of the Chesapeake Bay from New World Cartographic.

The weekend will kick off with an opening night preview party on Friday evening where guests will have first access to the diverse and coveted books while enjoying literary-themed cocktails, wine, and beer, canapes, and musical entertainment. The night will benefit the PEN/Faulkner Foundation, who champion the breadth and power of fiction in America. They administer the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction and the PEN/Malamud Award for Excellence in the Short Story to help call attention toward literary achievements; by bringing free books and authors into under-resourced DC schools to inspire the next generation of readers and writers; and by curating public literary programs to amplify the work of accomplished authors.

Eve and Edward Lemon, who live in the Meridian Hill neighborhood of D.C., founded Fine Books Fairs in 2022 with the goal of creating memorable, fun, and affordable fairs that instill the joy of books in a new generation of collectors.  The couple, who are in their 30s, are respected collectors and experts in the field and host five fairs throughout the year.

On Saturday and Sunday, The Capital Rare Book Fair will feature respected speakers from around the United States and United Kingdom who are coming expressly to speak at the fair.  The guest speakers, who will offer their insights and expertise on a variety of literary topics, include:

Hugo Vickers, the British writer, broadcaster and noted expert on the Royal family, has written biographies of many twentieth century figures, including the Queen Mother, Gladys, Duchess of Marlborough, Cecil Beaton, Vivien Leigh, a study of Greta Garbo, Alice, Princess Andrew of Greece, and his book, The Private World of The Duke and Duchess of Windsor was illustrated with pictures from their own collection.

Christy Cashman is a mother, author, and an active member of the Boston literary community. She is on the board of directors for the Associates of the Boston Public Library and is the founder of YouthINK, a not-for-profit mentorship program for young artists in the United States and Ireland. In addition to The Truth About Horses (2023), she has published two children’s books, The Not-So-Average Monkey of Kilkea Castle and Petri’s Next Things. She is currently working on her second novel, Beulah, and on her third children’s book, The Cat Named Peanut Shrimp Cookie Fry Muffin Who Lives on Staniel Key.

Marvin Kalb, Edward R. Murrow Professor of Practice, Emeritus, was the founding Director of the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy. He has had a distinguished journalism career that encompasses 30 years of award-winning reporting for CBS and NBC News as Chief Diplomatic Correspondent, Moscow bureau chief and anchor of “Meet the Press.” In addition, Kalb has authored and co-authored 13 non-fiction books and two best-selling novels. His most recent book is, “The Year I Was Peter the Great: 1956 – Khrushchev, Stalin’s Ghost, and a Young American in Russia.”

Tamar Evangelestia-Dougherty is the director of the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives, which contains nearly 3 million library volumes and over 44,000 cubic feet of archival materials chronicling the history of the Smithsonian. Evangelestia-Dougherty oversees 137 employees, a national advisory board of 15 members, an annual budget of over $16 million and 22 library branches and reading rooms located in Washington, D.C., New York City, Maryland, Virginia and the Republic of Panama.

Kermit Roosevelt III,  a professor of constitutional law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, is a former law clerk to Supreme Court Justice David Souter. He is the author of The Myth of Judicial Activism, as well as two novels, Allegiance and In the Shadow of the Law. In addition, he is the great-great-grandson of Theodore Roosevelt, first cousin of Eleanor Roosevelt, and distant cousin of FDR.

“We are excited to be hosting one of our fairs not only in a truly historic location, but in our hometown. As a Millennial couple, our goal when we started was to breathe new life into the world of book collecting,” said Mrs. Lemon.  “We have found that there is a growing number of younger enthusiasts who are discovering the pleasure of collecting.  For many it is not just about buying a first edition or finding a signed copy of a rare book; it is about enjoying the entire experience.”

Friday’s Preview Party tickets are $50 and include admission to the fair for the entire weekend. General admission on Saturday and Sunday is $15, $10 for students, and free for those under 16 years of age. Tickets are available at the door or HERE. Tickets allow multiple entries on different days.

Exhibitors include B&B Rare Books, Capitol Hill Books, Christopher’s Rare Books, Bluemango Rare Books and Manuscripts, Brenner’s Collectable Books, Commonwealth Books, Dale Steffey Books, First Place Books, Jeffrey Bergman Books, K&S Fine Arts, The Kelmscott Bookshop, Bruce McKittrick Rare Books, MacManus Rare Books, Michael R. Weintraub, Inc., New World Cartographic,Old Editions Bookshop, Owl of Athena Books, Pryor-Johnson Rare Books, Richard Mori Books,  Riverow Bookshop, Stan Gorski, Tennyson Williams Books and Fine Art, Vintage Books and Fine Art, West Side Book Shop, Wonder Book, Yesterday’s Muse, Quill & Brush, and more.

SCHEDULE:

Friday, May 3rd:

• 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Saturday, May 4th:

• 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday, May 5th:

• 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

 

About Fine Book Fairs:

Fine Book Fairs was founded by Eve and Edward Lemon in 2022 to promote book and print fairs across the United States. Each of the fairs is a unique social event that combines rare books and prints, bespoke service to both exhibitors and attendees, live music, food and drink in a historic venue.  Since its inception, Fine Book Fairs has hosted internationally attended book fairs in D.C., Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and New York, helping to make collecting accessible to a new generation of fans. www.finefairs.com

 

Published By: Aize Perez

In everyone’s life, there comes a time for you to choose a representative in court. Choosing the right one will play a huge role in determining your case’s direction. There are numerous aspects that a person needs to take into account when selecting a legal defense.

Identify Your Needs

The first step in selecting a criminal lawyer is identifying the exact attorney’s services you seek. On a charge of a misdemeanor or felony, both are serious cases but require different kinds of lawyers.  

Lawyers like Purser Law firm specialize in criminal law, while another firm may specialize in something else. It is crucial to choose a firm with a focus on a certain area. Are you a criminal court victim who needs a team to represent you in a trial, plea bargaining, or appeal? By specifically indicating your requirements, you increase your chances of using a lawyer with the correct capabilities.

Research Potential Lawyers

The first step of your research is writing down all the criminal lawyers in your district. You can collect recommendations from your friends, relatives, or colleagues. Alternatively, you can gather such information on the Internet through pages such as targeted law firms or personal lawyers. You should also verify that the lawyer specializes in criminal defense only and has tried cases similar to yours before to allow a smooth process.

Assess Their Experience

Discover the suitable list of candidates and their qualifications as well as experience. Verify the memberships, and certifications. Assess their history of dealing with criminal justice matters such as their record and success rate in court and their experience conducting trials and bringing cases to a conclusion.

Read Opinions and Testimonials

Scrutinize reviews and testimonials from past clients as these can enlighten you on the lawyer’s status and how that client was contented with the service. Internet platforms for ratings, lawyer directories, and the lawyer’s website might all be evaluated and have comments from clients with the same attorney.

Schedule Consultations

The shortlist should be two or three of the best-equipped firms, and a consultation with each should be arranged. Most criminal lawyers have free or low-cost consultations where you can drop in and talk with them about your case and your needs, as well as decide whether they are a good fit for you. Employ this time to interrogate your issues, and worries, and gauge how the attorney puts across messages and the procedure of handling cases.

Ask Relevant Questions

The consultation can be an opportunity to elicit the other lawyer’s expertise on dealings with cases comparable to yours, the legal tactics he uses, and his assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses. As to availability, fees, and billing procedures, you better ask about them if they coincide with your intentions and budget.

Be Choosy

Pay attention to the ease of relating with the lawyer and whether you trust their judgment and professionalism. Hire a lawyer who pays heed, is clear in their explanations, and exhibits empathy. Effective communication and a good relationship between counsel and client matter if the defense is to be successfully mounted.

Examine Their Fee Structure

Look into the lawyer’s fee structure by talking about hourly rates, retainer fees, and other costs, which may be relevant in your case. Verify that you are aware of the billing process and that you can make the arrangements that pertain to payments before hiring the attorney.

Endnote

Following these steps through and doing detailed research, you will find an experienced and professional lawyer who will zealously represent you in court and keep an eye on your rights. As such, trust your self-intuition. Pick someone who is inspiring, reliable, and dedicated to obtaining the best out of your case.

 

Published by: Khy Talara

 

The 2020 Nobel Prize in chemistry centered on developing CRISPR-Cas9, a transformative gene-editing tool. Building on that discovery, the team at CRISPR QC developed the CRISPR Analytics Platform, which helps scientists drive their genome and pathway engineering research with incredible accuracy and productivity. This, in turn, provides predictive insights for better decision-making with increased efficiency and efficacy. Ultimately, CRISPR QC’s mission and vision is to enable scientists across many markets to perform critical research. This empowers researchers to treat disease, save lives, and develop crops that respond to climate change, improve sustainability, and nourish our ever-increasing population.

Joining founder Ross Bundy, Tim Cloutier, PhD, is CRISPR QC’s new Chief Commercial Officer. He will play a large role in bringing that mission and vision to fruition. Cloutier’s diverse background in various scientific fields, coupled with extensive expertise in business segments and applications such as life sciences, drug discovery, and data management markets, makes him instrumental in driving CRISPR QC’s current growth and expansion trajectory.

Cloutier holds a degree in genetics from Michigan State University and earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics and Biochemistry from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, followed by a molecular and cellular biology postdoc at Northwestern University. At CRISPR QC, he will oversee the sales, marketing and business development functions to execute the company’s commercialization strategy. 

Cloutier has also held executive-level leadership positions at companies like BioLegend, Codex DNA (now Telesis Bio), Shadowbox and Flywheel, where he successfully managed global revenues ranging from $1M to $300M/year, with multiple fundraising efforts, including an IPO, Series A and Series D. Cloutier have also been involved in several mergers and acquisitions, demonstrating not only expertise in life sciences and drug discovery industries but in driving business growth and development wherever he lands.

His nearly 25 years of experience in commercial and product development roles have taken place in diverse sectors, including multi-omics, synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, imaging and automation platforms, clinical and molecular diagnostics and biotherapeutic molecular screening assays. He also has a strong track record of building, marketing and selling instruments, reagent platforms, and enterprise data solutions. “Both the commercial and product development roles have been great. I am fortunate to have done just about every role across sales, marketing, and product development to bring new product solutions to the market. But my real passion is growing teams and developing people.”

At PerkinElmer, he was the Director of Global Applications. He managed a large team across the US, Europe and Asia, overseeing a wide range of products in automation, drug discovery reagents, microfluidics and imaging. He then joined Illumina, merging a newly acquired company into the Illumina commercial organization. Later, he became the Director of Commercialization Operations. His team standardized the commercialization process by aligning the marketing, sales and service/support functions to the product development stages, greatly improving their market offerings.

Transitioning to Progenity, Cloutier led marketing efforts and built program management for NGS assays in the women’s health testing space, where he showcased his expertise in clinical diagnostics. He then moved to BioLegend, where he served as VP of Marketing and Sales and drove the development of their proteogenomics technology, transforming the company’s portfolio strategy.

What captivated Cloutier most about CRISPR QC was its technology and potential to affect transformative change in the genome and pathway engineering space. His enthusiasm is tangible as he expounds on the revolutionary impact of CRISPR technology in advancing gene editing and cell therapy. Cloutier envisions CRISPR QC’s solutions permeating diverse sectors, from life sciences to agriculture to synthetic biology.

Along with investments in infrastructure and aligning R&D endeavors to customer needs and market opportunities, Cloutier’s first objective is to build a commercial strategy that maps out how to bring new products to the market and scale the organization. Beyond its cutting-edge technology, he is excited for the opportunity to cultivate a visionary team. He shares, “It’s rare to get the chance to shape organizational culture and technological innovation concurrently.” 

CRISPR QC’s Tim Cloutier is a leader, strategist, and science technology enthusiast who is determined to help guide CRISPR QC to the forefront of genetic technology. With his deep understanding of market dynamics and how to help organizations win, CRISPR QC appears to be headed toward a bright and profitable future.

Find out how to get in on the CRISPR QC action and change the future.

Published by: Martin De Juan

To honor the Holy Birthday of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Buddhists and local residents converged at the Holy Miracles Temple in Pasadena, California, for the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Dharma Assembly. Held on March 17, 2024, within the Sakyamuni Buddha Hall, this event was a collaborative effort between the World Buddhism Association Headquarters, Holy Miracles Temple, and Sanger Mission.

Presided over by the Abbess of the Hua Zang Si Temple, Ruzun Ruohui, and jointly guided by Dharma Master JueHui and Dharma Master MiaoKong, the assembly brought together a congregation of holy gurus, eminent monks, dedicated monastics, and others. Their shared purpose was to pay homage to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, whose boundless compassion and loving kindness have been a beacon of hope for countless beings throughout the ages. 

Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, also known as Guan Shi Yin Bodhisattva in Chinese, is revered for profound compassion and unwavering commitment to alleviating the suffering of all sentient beings. According to Buddhist scriptures, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva attained Buddhahood eons ago and is known as Zheng Fa Ming Ru Lai, the Correct Dharma Realization Tathagata. Through sacred vows and bodhicitta, the Correct Dharam Realization Tathagata manifests as a Bodhisattva to extend aid to those in need and save sentient beings from suffering. Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva expounded one of the most influential Buddha Sutras – “The Prajna Paramita Heart Sutra,” which encapsulates the profound wisdom of the Buddha, illustrating the meaning of prajna.

While honoring Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva’s great compassion, sovereign wisdom, profound power, and benevolence, the assembly also reflected on the significance of bodhicitta, as elucidated by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III in the Sutra – “What is Cultivation.” He imparted, “The broad meaning of bodhicitta encompasses all of the Mahayana Dharma related to saving living beings out of great compassion and the causes leading to attaining the stages of enlightenment of a Bodhisattva.” This essence of conduct rooted in compassion deeply resonated with the attendees, reinforcing their dedication to selflessness and enlightenment. 

The assembly witnessed the recitation of passages from “The Lotus Sutra’s Universal Gate Chapter on Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva,” a revered text extolling the virtues and profound wisdom of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Participants engaged in practices such as meal offerings to the Buddhas, seeking blessings for happiness, auspiciousness, and the enhancement of fortune and wisdom. The gathering also collectively expressed their aspirations for the endurance of world peace, the cessation of calamities, while invoking prosperity, good health, and longevity for all.

As incense wafted through the temple and chants echoed in the halls, attendees were reminded of the profound teachings of compassion and empathy advocated by Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. The ceremony served as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, uniting individuals from all walks of life in celebration of the Dharma.

 

Published by: Khy Talara

Education today stands at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, facing the dual challenge of preserving core values while embracing the changes brought about by a rapidly evolving world. In this context, schools like Arcadia represent more than just academic institutions; they are microcosms of the future, preparing students to navigate a complex global landscape. The key to success in this endeavor lies in fostering environments that value critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

This conviction underscores the transformative potential of education, not only in shaping individual destinies but also in influencing societal progress. Educational institutions that prioritize a comprehensive approach to learning, combining academic rigor with personal development and social responsibility, serve as the nurseries for tomorrow’s leaders.

In the heart of Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Triangle lies a beacon of educational excellence known as Arcadia School. Established in 2016 by Dr. Navin Valrani, this prestigious institution has rapidly become synonymous with a holistic and inclusive approach to learning. With a blend of the English National Curriculum and the cultural richness of the UAE Curriculum, Arcadia School is not just an educational establishment but a nurturing ground for the next generation of global leaders and innovators.

The genesis of Arcadia School was driven by Dr. Valrani’s vision to create an educational environment that fosters excellence, inclusivity, and personal growth. From its inception as a primary school to the introduction of its secondary section in 2020 and the anticipated launch of its Sixth Form in August 2024, Arcadia’s journey is one of ambitious expansion and unwavering commitment to quality education. The school’s recognition with a “Very Good” rating in the 2022-23 KHDA inspection is a testament to its dedication to maintaining high educational standards.

At the helm of Arcadia’s success is Dr. Navin Valrani, an accomplished scholar and visionary leader. His academic journey, marked by honors from the University of Pennsylvania and London Business School, reflects a lifelong commitment to learning. Dr. Valrani’s passion for education extends beyond his achievements, inspiring a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within Arcadia’s faculty.

Arcadia School operates on the principle that education is a comprehensive experience. Beyond academic rigor, the institution emphasizes seven key areas of development: academic excellence, sports, performing arts, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, STREAM (Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), and adventurous activities. This multidimensional approach prepares students not only for academic success but also for the challenges and opportunities of the real world.

The school’s commitment to professional learning for teachers, incorporating a coaching philosophy, underscores its belief in the transformative power of education. This ethos is embodied by the senior leadership team, including Executive Principal Giles Pruett, whose background as a professional athlete and distinguished educator informs Arcadia’s emphasis on holistic development. Under his leadership, Arcadia champions well-being, sporting success, performing arts, digital innovation, and adventurous learning experiences, creating an inclusive community where happiness and academic excellence thrive.

Arcadia’s state-of-the-art secondary campus is a testament to its investment in creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Facilities such as a semi-Olympic swimming pool, science laboratories, media studies suites, and robotics workshops provide students with the resources to explore their interests and talents. This physical infrastructure complements Arcadia’s curriculum, offering a balanced education that nurtures creativity, innovation, and critical thinking.

In an era where education must evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world, Arcadia School stands out for its forward-thinking approach. The institution’s commitment to blending traditional educational values with modern pedagogical techniques positions its students for success in a globalized society. Arcadia’s focus on inclusivity and personal development, coupled with its rigorous academic program, makes it a model for educational excellence in Dubai and beyond.

As Arcadia School prepares to embark on the next chapter with the opening of its Sixth Form, its journey from a fledgling institution to a cornerstone of learning in Dubai is a remarkable narrative of vision, dedication, and impact. With a foundation built on the principles of excellence, inclusivity, and innovation, Arcadia is poised to continue shaping the minds and futures of its students for years to come.

 

Published By: Aize Perez

Baltimore, with its mix of grit, resilience, and tight-knit communities, finds a unique story unfolding as Zac Blanchard steps into the local political scene. His campaign for the 11th District City Council seat isn’t just about a list of goals; it’s a reflection of a life dedicated to service and community. A father and local leader, Blanchard brings a blend of personal commitment and hands-on experience to his vision for a brighter Baltimore.

A Journey from Louisiana to Baltimore’s Heart

Zac Blanchard’s roots run deep in the community-focused place he grew up: South Louisiana. Growing up, he learned that family means more than shared bloodlines. To him, family was paramount, and the people with whom he interacted daily and who made up the neighborhoods he lived in were an extension of his immediate relatives. Wanting to serve his community and country, he accepted a nomination to the Naval Academy out of high school and was then commissioned into the Marine Corps. 

Spending eight years on active duty with the Marine Corps shaped his leadership and sense of responsibility. While serving, he mentored other service members, dedicating his time to supporting their success along with his. In his last several years of active duty, Blanchard shifted his focus to the community he now calls home: Baltimore City.

Now settled near Cross St Market with his wife, Alexa, and their son, Jude, Blanchard is a familiar face in Federal Hill, actively participating in local initiatives that aim to uplift the neighborhood.

Hands-On Efforts for a Better Community

Living in Baltimore with his wife and son, he’s been a proactive member of the community. And his impact on Baltimore stretches far beyond attending meetings or ceremonial roles.  He says, “I knew that wherever we ended up, I wanted to help make my neighborhood the type of place that had a real sense of place, a sense of community, the type of place my kids might want to raise their kids in.” 

Blanchard took the initiative to get personally involved in seeing his community and city thrive. He became the president of the Federal Hill Neighborhood Association, began coaching football to local high school students, and took a job in economic development north of Downtown. Through his commitment and efforts in the short time of his involvement, he’s started a neighborhood block captain program, started multiple annual events for the neighborhood and local school, initiated a church softball team that had over 60 players this past spring, helped double the size of the high school’s football program, and helped coordinate neighbors to pressure elected officials to shut down a neighborhood establishment that had two shootings, two stabbings, and other serious crime. 

His work focuses on making tangible improvements, from reducing violence to encouraging economic growth through bringing necessary changes and amenities to communities, showing his commitment isn’t just talk. He’s not just about solving problems but also about creating opportunities, particularly for the city’s youth. Blanchard champions better recreational, educational, and vocational training opportunities, investing in the future. He’s also been a pivotal voice for taxing vacant properties to encourage the building of new affordable housing, calming traffic in the neighborhoods, and creating more reliable options for residents using public transportation.

Blanchard lives at the heart of the community he serves. His direct involvement in mentoring and support demonstrates a personal dedication to helping his neighbors and strengthening the community fabric.

Focused on What Baltimore Needs

Blanchard’s campaign shines a light on his priorities for Baltimore: safety, vibrant neighborhoods, improved public transit, and youth empowerment. He’s well aware of the city’s challenges, from crime to the need for better local services, and proposes thoughtful, long-term solutions rather than quick fixes. He knows that good policies, like Baltimore’s Group Violence Reduction Strategy – which has driven down shootings and homicides in the city over the last several years – can meaningfully improve cities. “Baltimore has the highest armed robbery rate, the highest police spending per capita, the least socioeconomic mobility, some of the least reliable transit, and one of the highest concentrations of abandoned housing in the country,” states Blanchard. “ We need bold, creative leaders to help make Baltimore a city of safe, vibrant, good neighborhoods – anything less is accepting the status quo.”

His vision for the city is rooted in a deep understanding of what the city needs rather than letting politics and red tape get in the way of implementing positive solutions, which has long been a problem. He’s seen firsthand what impact positive policy can have on the communities and, just as importantly, the power of investing in the youth’s future. It’s in this mission that he’s committed. Continually focused on Baltimore’s needs, not the wants of those who already hold the power and money.

Building Baltimore’s Future Together

Blanchard’s bid for the City Council is about bringing his lifelong commitment to service and community to the forefront of Baltimore’s political landscape. His story is not just about a campaign but about a man who’s already making a difference, showing up in his community in tangible ways, and showing that real change comes from genuine involvement and dedication. Baltimore faces many challenges, but Blanchard, a self-proclaimed “lifer” of the city, sees a future filled with promise, driven by community action and effective leadership.

As we move towards May and the election nears, Blanchard offers Baltimore a candidate who’s not just running for office but has been actively contributing to the city’s betterment. His transition from military service to local advocacy is an extension of his belief in duty, service, and community. Baltimore isn’t just getting a politician; it’s gaining an advocate who’s committed to seeing the city not just survive but flourish.

 

Published By: Aize Perez