Judith Kornett is a Maryland artist, with a studio at the Montpelier Arts Center, where from May 1-26 her exhibit, "Less is More," will be on view. The title symbolizes the theme that less violence equals a more peaceful world. Kornett's piece also includes works submitted by other artists. During the exhibit, some items from the exhibit will be sold with proceeds going to three organizations that aid the victims of violence. These organizations are: Tewa Women United, a Native American women's group dealing with violence on the San Ildephonso Pueblo in New Mexico; Wounded Warriors; and Black Lives Matter.
A reception for the artists will be held on May 15 from1-4 p.m. For more information about this event, you may call Kornett at 301-474-0879 or contact her by email at judithkornettarts@gmail.com. Let's go view this unusual presentation, and perhaps find something to purchase to support this worthy cause.
Warmer weather is a great time to consider home repair and tree and lawn cleanup. It is also a time when scammers arrive to take advantage. A common approach is for the scammer to knock on your door and say he is in the neighborhood doing some work for one of your neighbors. This individual may state that he has noticed a possibly hazardous situation in your yard, that your windows need replacing or your driveway needs to be resurfaced. Some possible results of this scenario are that the individual takes your money and never returns, performs inferior work that causes the need for repair and/or continues to find more and more issues in need of repair. Scammers target homes that appear to be not quite up to date, and – most important –home owners who are older individuals. Montgomery County, for example, has reported that in 11 of the 12 fraud cases reported since March, the victim was 70 or older.
Be cautious of companies who have no printed materials, such as contracts, business cards, etc. Do your research about the alleged company, ask for references from individuals who have dealt with them previously and report any suspicious contact to the police. We all like to have attractive homes and lovely yards, but need to be certain that the individuals performing the work are qualified to do it.
The Prince George's County Council is busy reviewing the county executive's proposed FY2017 operating and capital budget. Citizen feedback on the proposal is requested. There are public hearings scheduled for Thursday, May 5 and Tuesday, May 10 at 7 p.m. in the County Administration Building in Upper Marlboro. If you cannot attend a hearing, send written comments to the Clerk of Council, 14741 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772.