Dear Friends, 
 
     I wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  I am looking ahead to 2016 and the gifts and challenges that it will bring. 
 
      The new Maryland General Assembly Legislative Session begins at noon on January 13 th, 2016.  I am looking forward to representing you for another year in Annapolis.  It is always good to have feedback from constituents regarding the votes and issues which will come before us and I encourage you to come see us in Annapolis or share your thoughts with me at [email protected]  . I am on the fourth floor of the Lowe House Office Building in Rm. 427 and we are almost always open from January to Sine Die in April!  I would love to say hello.  
 
     I also wanted to send along a variety of notices I have received which I thought might be of interest to some of you.  Please feel free to share with anyone who comes to mind.  
 
     Please remember the Bowie Interfaith Pantry Emergency Aid Fund is always looking for contributions and is also there to help if you need it.   Their address is 2614 Kenhill Drive, Suite 134, Bowie and they are open M-W-F from 9 am -noon and the 2nd and 4thTuesday of the month from 6-7 pm.
 
     One of several services in Laurel to remember with holiday giving and needs is the Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS) located at 311 Laurel Avenue.   They are open Mondays from 9am -2pm and 5-7pm and Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 am to 2 pm.
 
While in the holiday frame of mind, there is this reminder from BGE regarding their energy rebates:

Thinking of buying yourself a Holiday appliance gift?  Rebate info from BGE at this link BGE Smart Energy Savers Program helps customers reduce their energy use and save on operating costs year-round.

     Good news from SHA that they have started resurfacing Rt. 50 from Lottsford Vista Road to Rt. 301. For more information, go to this link. 
   
     Remember that you can still sign up for health insurance (and for the first time this will include dental benefits). The enrollment period ends on January 31 st. 
      Unfortunately, you will incur a tax penalty if you fail to do so, so it may pay to look into benefits rather than the fine. For more information go to MarylandHealthConnection.gov.  

If you have any questions regarding the above issues, or any other with which I can be of assistance, please feel free to contact me at [email protected] or call 301-858-3101 . 
 

I am wishing you and your family many blessings in the coming New Year,  

Geraldine

 
By Authority of Friends for Geraldine Valentino-Smith, Elizabeth Ryan, Treasurer