Montgomery County Board Vacancies
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Adult Public Guardianship Review Board
Commission on Health Commission for Women
The deadline for application is May 16, 2012. Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link. http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov. Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
Contact: Beth Gochrach, 240-777-2528
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Victim Services Advisory Board
The deadline for application is May 14, 2012. Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link. http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov. Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Victim Services Advisory Board
The deadline for application is May 14, 2012. Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link. http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov. Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center Celebrates Ten Year Anniversary
Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center Celebrates Ten Year Anniversary
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will join the East Silver Spring community to celebrate the 10-Year anniversary of the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center on Saturday, May 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The center is located at 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville. The event is free and open to the public. Montgomery County Recreation is hosting the family-oriented event featuring entertainment, children’s activities and interactive workshops and demonstrations for all ages. The celebration will also include the Taste of Burtonsville with food samples offered by local restaurants. A jazz concert featuring The Dean Family will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Ample free parking is available. Tickets for the food tasting will be available for $1 apiece. The annual event, coordinated by the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center Advisory Committee, celebrates 10 years of active programming at the multi-purpose recreational facility. The center, which opened in May 2002 as the Fairland Community Recreation Center, was renamed in 2008 in memory of Councilmember Praisner who represented District 4, and was instrumental in bringing about so many improvements to the East Silver Spring area. For more information about the festival, call Carol Brown at 240-777-4970.
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will join the East Silver Spring community to celebrate the 10-Year anniversary of the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center on Saturday, May 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The center is located at 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville. The event is free and open to the public. Montgomery County Recreation is hosting the family-oriented event featuring entertainment, children’s activities and interactive workshops and demonstrations for all ages. The celebration will also include the Taste of Burtonsville with food samples offered by local restaurants. A jazz concert featuring The Dean Family will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Ample free parking is available. Tickets for the food tasting will be available for $1 apiece. The annual event, coordinated by the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center Advisory Committee, celebrates 10 years of active programming at the multi-purpose recreational facility. The center, which opened in May 2002 as the Fairland Community Recreation Center, was renamed in 2008 in memory of Councilmember Praisner who represented District 4, and was instrumental in bringing about so many improvements to the East Silver Spring area. For more information about the festival, call Carol Brown at 240-777-4970.
Montgomery County Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
Montgomery County Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
Montgomery County will commemorate Arab American Heritage Month on Thursday, April 26 from 6 to 8 p.m., with a celebration highlighting the diverse cultural traditions of the Arab American community and reflections on Arab American civil rights. The event, which is being co-sponsored by the County Executive’s Office of Community Partnerships and the Arab American Heritage Committee, will be held in the Executive Office Building, Lobby Level Auditorium, 101 Monroe Street, Rockville. County Executive Isiah Leggett will kick off the celebration with welcoming remarks and a proclamation that designates April as Arab American Heritage Month. The featured speakers will be Osama Abi-Mershed, director of the Center for Contemporary Arab Studies, Edmund Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University and Fida Adely, assistant professor, Center for Contemporary Arab Studies, Georgetown University.
The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call the Office of Community Partnerships at 240-777-8320 or email diane.vu@montgomerycountymd.gov.
Olney Library Kiosk
Olney Library Kiosk Customers May Now Pick up Holds Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL)
Customers who are going to the MCPL Express @ Olney may now pick up holds at the lockers located in the Longwood Community Center, 19300 Georgia Ave. To pick up a hold, a customer must be signed up to receive email notifications from MCPL. To register for email notifications, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/library and click on the Your Account box and follow the links. (Holds placed by customers with paper notifications will be cancelled.) When placing a hold, select OLN_LOCKER or Olney Hold Lockers at Longwood Community Center as the pick up library.Holds may be picked up beginning at 6 p.m on the day the notice is received. Alternatively, customers may check their account online and when they see that the item for which they received the hold notice is checked out and on their account, they can come to MCPL Express @ Olney and retrieve the item from the hold lockers. If not picked up within four days, (including closed days for Longwood and the day the notice is received), the holds will be removed from the lockers and sent to the next hold customer or back to its own library. The shortened pickup time and the need for email notification are necessary because of the limited number of lockers available for holds and the anticipated popularity of the service.Once the item arrives at MCPL Express @ Olney, MCPL staff will check it out to the library card number that was used to place the hold. That same library card must be used to retrieve the hold from the hold locker.For more information about the services available, visit the MCPL Express @ Olney website.
Upcoming MCPS Parent Academy Workshops
Upcoming MCPS Parent Academy Workshops
Back Talk, Eye Rolls, and Attitude: How to Respond when Children are Disrespectful
Thursday, April 26 7:00-8:30pm
Are you getting a lot of “attitude” from your kids? Do you ignore it or confront it? Are you concerned about how children treat each other? Learn how to respond to disrespectful behavior and how to build positive relationships with your kids.
Led by a parent educator with YMCA Youth & Family Services.
Francis Scott Key MS, 910 Schindler Dr., Silver Spring 20903
Reaching for Success: Special Parent Workshop (English and Spanish)
Saturday, April 28 8:30-11:30am
Parents will learn about resources in the schools and how to use Edline to follow the academic progress of their children. Parents will also learn about programs for youth and parents offered by Identity as well as resources in the community like English classes, emergency and health services.
Mid County Regional Services Center, 2424 Reedie Dr. Wheaton 20902
Computer Smart (part 3 of 5)
Monday, April 30 6:30-8:30pm
Explore the MCPS website and online resources, set up an Edline account, and learn about Microsoft Office programs in this beginning-level workshop. Facilitated by an MCPS technology teacher.
Earle B. Wood MS, 14615 Bauer Dr., Rockville 20853
Keeping Teens Safe Conference
Monday, April 30 6:30-8:30pm
Join us for a conversation about the state of the DCC community and strategies to keep students engaged and neighborhoods thriving! Share your input and learn about programs and services available in our community. Presented in collaboration with the Maryland State’s Attorney’s Office, Downcounty Consortium Administration, Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, Montgomery County Police Department, John F. Kennedy HS, and Montgomery County Public Schools.
John F. Kennedy HS, 1901 Randolph Rd., Silver Spring 20902
Injury Prevention and Performance for Student Athletes
Thursday, May 3 7:00-8:30pm
Too many athletes end their athletic careers not because they want to, but because they have to. Olympic chiropractor, Dr. Steven M. Horwitz, will discuss injury prevention and improved performance for student athletes as well as concussions, heat and hydration injuries, proper strength and conditioning training, and sports diet and nutrition.
Sherwood HS, 300 Olney-Sandy Spring Rd., Sandy Spring 20860 Childcare and Spanish interpretation are provided at all workshops.
To register and see other upcoming workshops, please visit http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/parentacademy/ For more information about events, resources and services for children in Montgomery County, visit and subscribe to Macaroni Kid: http://rockville.macaronikid.com
Commission for Women to Hold Second SeminarOn the Legal Process of Separation and Divorce
Commission for Women to Hold Second SeminarOn the Legal Process of Separation and Divorce T
The Montgomery County Commission for Women, in partnership with the Bar Association of Montgomery County, Family Law Section; the Montgomery County Women’s Bar Association; and the Montgomery County Divorce Roundtable has scheduled a second seminar called:
“When a Marriage Ends: Financial, Property and Practical Issues Both Wife and Husband Must Consider,”
Thursday, April 26 at 7 p.m
The seminar will take place at the Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Avenue, Suite 330. The first seminar on this topic quickly filled to capacity.
The seminar will be presented by Nelson Garcia, Esq., Thyden, Gross & Callahan, LLP.
To pre-register, go to http://divorcelawseminar.eventbrite.com/. The fee is $10 if pre-registering and $15 at the door.
Nonprofit Organizations Using Technology to Advance Their Missions
Celebrating Eight Years of Innovation in the DC area!Seeking Nonprofit Organizations Using Technology to Advance Their Missions 501cTECH and Accenture Metro DC are pleased to announce the 2012 Technology Innovation Awards. The cash award has been increased to $7500 and the application simplified.
This award recognizes two nonprofits in the greater DC area whose innovative use of technology has improved key aspects of their operations, helps people build skills to succeed in the new economy and more effectively fulfill their missions. Please help us spread the word about this award.
Please share this exciting award on your Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or blog pages. The organization needs only to fill out a simple application and our panel of 25 judges from around the Washington DC Technology community will evaluate their projects. If your organization has a blog or newsletter and would be willing to allow 501cTECH to write a guest post, I would be happy to provide a post or text for a newsletter. Award winners receive a $7,500 CASH prize, a Dell laptop or Apple iPad and a Microsoft software package. Applications accepted from April 16th through June 25th. We will be holding free webinars on how to apply.
For more information, please visit http://www.501ctech.org/innovation-award/2012-technology-innovation-award/ Contact: Sarah Morgan(202) 234-9672 ext. 100smorgan@501ctech.org
Montgomery County Recognizes Building Safety Month in May
Montgomery County Recognizes Building Safety Month in May to help raise awareness of building safety, Montgomery County’s Department of Permitting Services (DPS) is celebrating Building Safety Month by offering free deck maintenance inspections for single-family detached homes, townhouses and duplex dwellings. The inspections are available to all Montgomery County residents – excluding those in the City of Rockville and the City of Gaithersburg. The inspection will include a checklist for homeowners to help them maintain a safe and sound structure. This year’s Building Safety Month theme is “Building Safety: Where You Live, Work and Play.” Each week of the month will address a different subject, with communities across the country promoting Energy and Green Building, Disaster Safety and Mitigation, Fire Safety and Awareness and Backyard Safety. Building safety and fire prevention codes address all aspects of construction, such as structural soundness of buildings, reliability of fire prevention and suppression systems, mechanical systems, and energy efficiency and sustainability. Ensuring that buildings are safe requires the active participation of building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, builders, engineers and others in the construction industry, as well as property owners.
Residents interested in scheduling a deck inspection should contact Montgomery County during the month of May by calling 3-1-1, or by fax at 240-777-6258 or by email at dps@montgomerycountymd.gov.
Homeowners will be contacted before the inspection is performed. All requests will be honored as the inspectors’ workloads permit.
For more information about Building Safety Month, visit the DPS website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/permittingservices.
“2011 Montgomery Serves Awards” Winners Announced
“2011 Montgomery Serves Awards” Winners Announced The inaugural Montgomery Serves Awards ceremony will take place Monday, April 30, 2012 at 6:30, at Imagination Stage in Bethesda. This event will honor some of our County’s most outstanding community leaders and dedicated volunteers. The “2011 Montgomery Serves Awards” recognize extraordinary volunteer community service of an individual, community group, youth, and business last year.
Frank Ierardi
2011 Montgomery Serves Award – Individual From seniors in need of tax assistance to hikers and bikers and first graders just learning to read, Frank Ierardi’s volunteer work has made Montgomery County a better place. Mr. Ierardi retired from IBM in 1997 and founded Woodworkers for Children Charity. In 2011, WCC volunteers made 1,300 hand-crafted toys for at-risk children. Mr. Ierardi’s “Reading is Terrific” program provided books for 380 first graders to take home in 2011. As a volunteer with the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail Coalition, he maintains a section of the trail. In his eleventh year as a counselor in the AARP Tax Aide program, Mr. Ierardi currently is the site chief at the Damascus Senior Center that helped 121 senior taxpayers last year.
Phanna Iamlek
2011 Montgomery Serves Award – YouthPhanna Iamlek, a senior at Sherwood High School, gives from her heart with every volunteer activity she undertakes. In 2011, she logged a remarkable 861 volunteer hours at Winter Growth, an adult medical day care and assisted living center in Olney, where she worked with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients. She volunteered hundreds more hours at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, Olney Library, and Brookside Gardens. “My summer days flew by as I immersed myself in the Winter Growth culture and formed relationships with both employees and participants,” she observed. “In doing so, I took immense pride in volunteering, especially when one of the participants with Alzheimer’s started recognizing me and telling me that she appreciated my presence.” Southern Management Corporation
2011 Montgomery Serves Award – BusinessThanks to 66 volunteers from Southern Management Corporation’s Montgomery County Cluster, the clients of Shepherd’s Table have a place that feels a lot more like home. Shepherd’s Table, located in downtown Silver Spring, provides the basic necessities of food, shelter, and clothing to the homeless. The SMC crew volunteered their expertise and talents to transform the Shepherd’s Table experience. They landscaped the front entrance; fixed damaged drywall in the lobby, kitchen, and common areas; and gave the building a fresh coat of paint. In less than six hours, the entire building was transformed into a welcoming residence. The beautification took planning, determination, and compassion from each of the SMC Cluster volunteers who gave unselfishly of their time.
Meals on Wheels of Wheaton
2011 Montgomery Serves Award – Community GroupMeals on Wheels of Wheaton is a model volunteer-run community nonprofit organization. Volunteers from local churches in the Wheaton area established the organization 40 years ago to help homebound elderly and disabled remain in their own homes. Today, volunteers deliver nutritious meals to 80 homebound residents of the greater Wheaton area five days each week. A part-time cook is the only paid employee. Each weekday morning, four volunteers pack the meals prepared by the cook while another volunteer coordinates the day’s operations. At 11 a.m., ten more volunteers arrive to go out on five delivery routes with the freshly prepared food and a kind word for each recipient. That’s 15 volunteers each weekday from an active pool of 150 volunteers who make a huge difference for these homebound County residents. * * * * The Montgomery Serves Awards are being hosted by the Fund for Montgomery (FFM), the Montgomery County Volunteer Center (MCVC), and the Corporate Volunteer Council (CVC). FFM was created by County Executive Ike Leggett and the Office of Community Partnerships to raise private funding to continue important community building events that include the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service and Celebration, World of Montgomery Festival, Community Service Day, and programs focusing on the county’s ethnic and heritage diversity. The Fund for Montgomery is housed at The Community Foundation for Montgomery County, a regional affiliate of the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region. “Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors of the Fund for Montgomery,” said County Executive Leggett, “the County will be able to recognize residents who have given selflessly to help our neighbors in need and improve our quality of life.”
For information about the April 30th awards event and to reserve free seats, please visithttp://www.montgomeryserves.org/montgomery-serves-awards or call the Volunteer Center at 240-777-2600.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Montgomery County Celebrates Baisakhi Holiday to Honor Sikh Heritage
Montgomery County Celebrates Baisakhi Holiday to Honor Sikh Heritage
Montgomery County will celebrate the 313th commemoration of Baisakhi, the holiday honoring Sikh Heritage, with an event on Saturday, April 21 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Executive Office Building, Lobby Level Auditorium, 101 Monroe Street, Rockville.
The celebration is hosted by the Cultural and Ethnic Affairs Committee in the County Executive’sOffice of Community Partnerships in collaboration with the Kaur Foundation. Baisakhi is one of the most important and transforming events in Sikh history. In addition to its enormous religious significance as a landmark event in Sikh history, Baisakhi is an ancient harvest festival which marks the beginning of a new solar year and harvest season. Sikhism is the fifth largest faith in the world. Baisakhi is one of the most joyous and colorful festivals of India and is gradually becoming a major global cultural celebration.
The free event is open to the public and will feature cultural performances, family activities and light refreshments. The first video in the Cultural and Ethnic Affairs Committee’s “It Takes A Village” movie series, entitled “The Cultural Safari,” will be shown.
To RSVP, email Diane Vu at diane.vu@montgomerycountymd.govno later than April 18.
Montgomery County will celebrate the 313th commemoration of Baisakhi, the holiday honoring Sikh Heritage, with an event on Saturday, April 21 from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Executive Office Building, Lobby Level Auditorium, 101 Monroe Street, Rockville.
The celebration is hosted by the Cultural and Ethnic Affairs Committee in the County Executive’sOffice of Community Partnerships in collaboration with the Kaur Foundation. Baisakhi is one of the most important and transforming events in Sikh history. In addition to its enormous religious significance as a landmark event in Sikh history, Baisakhi is an ancient harvest festival which marks the beginning of a new solar year and harvest season. Sikhism is the fifth largest faith in the world. Baisakhi is one of the most joyous and colorful festivals of India and is gradually becoming a major global cultural celebration.
The free event is open to the public and will feature cultural performances, family activities and light refreshments. The first video in the Cultural and Ethnic Affairs Committee’s “It Takes A Village” movie series, entitled “The Cultural Safari,” will be shown.
To RSVP, email Diane Vu at diane.vu@montgomerycountymd.govno later than April 18.
Moderately Priced Dwelling Units Available at Hidden Creek Apartment Homes
Moderately Priced Dwelling Units Available at Hidden Creek Apartment Homes
The City of Gaithersburg announces the availability of its most recent Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) program at Hidden Creek Apartment Homes. The property, located off Goshen Road at Girard Street, offers 45 one- and two-bedroom units at rents of $1,008 and $1,142, respectively.
First priority goes to households displaced from West Deer Park Apartments, Broadstone Apartments, and three apartment communities on East Diamond Avenue vacated between 2006 and2008. Additional priority households include Public Safety Workers, K-12Montgomery County public and private school employees, and full-time employees of the City of Gaithersburg.
This is the third property to offer MPDUs since the adoption of Gaithersburg’s Affordable Housing Ordinance in late 2006. Once fully occupied, the City will have more than100 moderately priced units in its rental housing inventory.
Income qualifications and other restrictions apply. For information on the Hidden Creek Apartment Home program, or other MPDU opportunities in the City of Gaithersburg, please call301-258-6320 x2464 or e-mail mpdu@gaithersburgmd.gov.
The City of Gaithersburg announces the availability of its most recent Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) program at Hidden Creek Apartment Homes. The property, located off Goshen Road at Girard Street, offers 45 one- and two-bedroom units at rents of $1,008 and $1,142, respectively.
First priority goes to households displaced from West Deer Park Apartments, Broadstone Apartments, and three apartment communities on East Diamond Avenue vacated between 2006 and2008. Additional priority households include Public Safety Workers, K-12Montgomery County public and private school employees, and full-time employees of the City of Gaithersburg.
This is the third property to offer MPDUs since the adoption of Gaithersburg’s Affordable Housing Ordinance in late 2006. Once fully occupied, the City will have more than100 moderately priced units in its rental housing inventory.
Income qualifications and other restrictions apply. For information on the Hidden Creek Apartment Home program, or other MPDU opportunities in the City of Gaithersburg, please call301-258-6320 x2464 or e-mail mpdu@gaithersburgmd.gov.
Leggett to Host Town Hall Meeting in Chevy Chase Area
Leggett to Host Town Hall Meeting in Chevy Chase Area
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will host a Town Hall Meeting in the Chevy Chase area on Thursday, May 3 at 7 p.m. at the Friendship Heights Village Center, 4433 S. Park Ave., Chevy Chase.
Previous town meetings have drawn thousands of residents who have taken advantage of the opportunity to voice their concerns to the County Executive.
“Town meetings present an excellent opportunity for me to find out what’s on the mind of our residents,” said Leggett. “A cornerstone of my administration has been to make sure ‘everyone has a seat at the table’ and these public meetings provide a forum for our residents to share their ideas and concerns.”
The town meeting is free and open to all and will be videotaped by County Cable6, the County government channel, for future airing.
Sign language interpreter services will be provided only upon request with notice as far in advance as possible, but no less than 72 hours prior to the event. If these or other services or aids are needed to participate in this activity, please call240-777-6507, TTY 240-777-6505 or email a request to karen.falcon@montgomerycountymd.gov.
For more information about the town meeting or the cable television program schedule, call 240-777-6507.
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will host a Town Hall Meeting in the Chevy Chase area on Thursday, May 3 at 7 p.m. at the Friendship Heights Village Center, 4433 S. Park Ave., Chevy Chase.
Previous town meetings have drawn thousands of residents who have taken advantage of the opportunity to voice their concerns to the County Executive.
“Town meetings present an excellent opportunity for me to find out what’s on the mind of our residents,” said Leggett. “A cornerstone of my administration has been to make sure ‘everyone has a seat at the table’ and these public meetings provide a forum for our residents to share their ideas and concerns.”
The town meeting is free and open to all and will be videotaped by County Cable6, the County government channel, for future airing.
Sign language interpreter services will be provided only upon request with notice as far in advance as possible, but no less than 72 hours prior to the event. If these or other services or aids are needed to participate in this activity, please call240-777-6507, TTY 240-777-6505 or email a request to karen.falcon@montgomerycountymd.gov.
For more information about the town meeting or the cable television program schedule, call 240-777-6507.
Down County Network Meeting
Down County Network Meeting April 18th 3:30pm-5:00PM
What: Down County Network Meeting
When: Wednesday, April 18th 3:30-5:00pm
Wheaton Library 1stfloor large conference room 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902
Agenda: Planning Director Rollin Stanley and his staff on Montgomery County’s Zoning Re-write and what it means to you.
Networking, your updates, and sharing of resources
County updates including Secure Communities, Wheaton Redevelopment, and upcoming events.
Zoning Rewrite Project
Planners are rewriting the Zoning Code to modernize antiquated, redundant zoning regulations and create new tools to help achieve goals in community plans. Planner shave released several draft sections of the proposed Zoning Code, covering what’s permitted in each zone, how you can build, and the process by which development is reviewed and approved.
In addition, planners have analyzed how to reduce or consolidate 123 existing zones into 30 proposed zones, working to ensure consistency with existing height and density rules as well as recommendations in each community master plan. Throughout the revised sections, planners have strived to make the code easier to use by adding diagrams and clearer text.
What does all this mean for residents? Learn more from Planning Director Rollin Stanley and his staff.
What: Down County Network Meeting
When: Wednesday, April 18th 3:30-5:00pm
Wheaton Library 1stfloor large conference room 11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902
Agenda: Planning Director Rollin Stanley and his staff on Montgomery County’s Zoning Re-write and what it means to you.
Networking, your updates, and sharing of resources
County updates including Secure Communities, Wheaton Redevelopment, and upcoming events.
Zoning Rewrite Project
Planners are rewriting the Zoning Code to modernize antiquated, redundant zoning regulations and create new tools to help achieve goals in community plans. Planner shave released several draft sections of the proposed Zoning Code, covering what’s permitted in each zone, how you can build, and the process by which development is reviewed and approved.
In addition, planners have analyzed how to reduce or consolidate 123 existing zones into 30 proposed zones, working to ensure consistency with existing height and density rules as well as recommendations in each community master plan. Throughout the revised sections, planners have strived to make the code easier to use by adding diagrams and clearer text.
What does all this mean for residents? Learn more from Planning Director Rollin Stanley and his staff.
Buy Fresh, Buy Local at Gaithersburg’s Farmers’ Markets
Buy Fresh, Buy Local at Gaithersburg’s Farmers’ Markets
The City of Gaithersburg presents two Farmers’ Markets, featuring locally grown produce throughout the growing season. The variety of fruits and vegetables changes weekly as different crops reach maturity. In addition to produce, both markets feature a variety of meats, honey, jams and jellies, fresh herbs, potted plants, cut flowers, and more.
The Main Street Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays, May 5 through November 17,from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You’ll find it in the Main Street Pavilion at 301 Main Street, one block off of Kentlands Boulevard in the Kentlands. A variety of local artists and craftspeople with unique handcrafted items will join the farmers at this location each Saturday, and baked goods including bread, pastries, and cookies will also be available.
The Fulks Corner Farmers’ Market is open Thursdays, June 7 through October 25, from 2 to 6 p.m. You’ll find it at the corner of Route 355 and Fulks Corner Avenue in Olde Towne. Specialty items at this market include cider, fruit butters, applesauce, and reusable bags. Crafters will not be present for this market.
Both locations accept FVC and FMNP (WIC and Senior)checks.
For more information please visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/events,or contact Kristen Hux at 301-258-6350 or by e-mail at khux@gaithersburgmd.gov.
The City of Gaithersburg presents two Farmers’ Markets, featuring locally grown produce throughout the growing season. The variety of fruits and vegetables changes weekly as different crops reach maturity. In addition to produce, both markets feature a variety of meats, honey, jams and jellies, fresh herbs, potted plants, cut flowers, and more.
The Main Street Farmers’ Market is open Saturdays, May 5 through November 17,from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. You’ll find it in the Main Street Pavilion at 301 Main Street, one block off of Kentlands Boulevard in the Kentlands. A variety of local artists and craftspeople with unique handcrafted items will join the farmers at this location each Saturday, and baked goods including bread, pastries, and cookies will also be available.
The Fulks Corner Farmers’ Market is open Thursdays, June 7 through October 25, from 2 to 6 p.m. You’ll find it at the corner of Route 355 and Fulks Corner Avenue in Olde Towne. Specialty items at this market include cider, fruit butters, applesauce, and reusable bags. Crafters will not be present for this market.
Both locations accept FVC and FMNP (WIC and Senior)checks.
For more information please visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/events,or contact Kristen Hux at 301-258-6350 or by e-mail at khux@gaithersburgmd.gov.
Take a Trip Around the World... in Silver Spring; Second Annual Taste the World in Fenton Village
Take a Trip Around the World... in Silver Spring; Second Annual Taste the World in Fenton Village
Nearly two dozen restaurants featuring cuisine from around the globe will be show cased in the second annual Taste the World in Fenton Village on Sunday, May 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. Fenton Village is located just south of downtown Silver Spring between Wayne, Georgia and Burlington avenues and Fenton Street.
Unlike other tasting events assembled on sidewalks or public lots, Taste the World welcomes participants into restaurants to sample not just their specialties but their special atmosphere. Restaurants will offer appetizers or small tasting plates at a minimal cost of $2 to $5 apiece.
“Our restaurant has been serving Silver Spring for 28 years and is a proud member of the Fenton Village community,” says Suton Thumprasert, owner of Thai Derm. “We are excited to see the arrival of other restaurants over the last few years, which have helped Fenton Village earn a reputation as a global community.”
“Hundreds of area residents took part in the inaugural event last year and we’re thrilled to once again welcome our neighbors and visitors from Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Bethesda and all around the DC area to sample the diverse range of dining available in Fenton Village,” said Jessica Fusillo, chair of the Community Economic Development Committee of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board. “Within just a few blocks, participants can have a truly international experience.”
In addition to more than 30 independent restaurants, Fenton Village is home to two spas, a martial arts academy, jewelers, music stores, a travel agency, a comics store, art supply store, thrift shop, international groceries, dry cleaners, art non-profits and more.
“Small businesses are what make the Fenton Village community vibrant and unique,” says Fusillo. “Fenton Village has it all. I urge residents to attend the Taste the World event to help ensure that our neighborhood businesses and our community continue to thrive.”
Restaurants ranging from Abyssinia Restaurant (Ethiopian) to ZED’s Café (Internet coffee shop) are participating in Taste the World. Hosted by the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board, with help from Silver Spring Town Center Inc., the event also features musical entertainment.
Event attendees will pick up their Taste the World passports at Parking Lot 3 on Fenton Street between Thayer and Silver Spring avenues beginning at 1p.m. Once participants have their fill of the range of tastes, they can enter a free drawing for prizes from local merchants.
The Silver Spring Metro Station is a 10-minute walk from the stage area. Free parking will be available at Parking Lot 3 as well as Parking Garage #4 on Silver Spring Avenue.
For more information, call 240-832-3078 or visit www.tastetheworldfentonvillage.orgfor maps, a list of participating restaurants, and other event details. Additional information about Fenton Village and downtown Silver Spring is available at www.silverspringtowncenter.com.
Nearly two dozen restaurants featuring cuisine from around the globe will be show cased in the second annual Taste the World in Fenton Village on Sunday, May 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. Fenton Village is located just south of downtown Silver Spring between Wayne, Georgia and Burlington avenues and Fenton Street.
Unlike other tasting events assembled on sidewalks or public lots, Taste the World welcomes participants into restaurants to sample not just their specialties but their special atmosphere. Restaurants will offer appetizers or small tasting plates at a minimal cost of $2 to $5 apiece.
“Our restaurant has been serving Silver Spring for 28 years and is a proud member of the Fenton Village community,” says Suton Thumprasert, owner of Thai Derm. “We are excited to see the arrival of other restaurants over the last few years, which have helped Fenton Village earn a reputation as a global community.”
“Hundreds of area residents took part in the inaugural event last year and we’re thrilled to once again welcome our neighbors and visitors from Silver Spring, Takoma Park, Bethesda and all around the DC area to sample the diverse range of dining available in Fenton Village,” said Jessica Fusillo, chair of the Community Economic Development Committee of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board. “Within just a few blocks, participants can have a truly international experience.”
In addition to more than 30 independent restaurants, Fenton Village is home to two spas, a martial arts academy, jewelers, music stores, a travel agency, a comics store, art supply store, thrift shop, international groceries, dry cleaners, art non-profits and more.
“Small businesses are what make the Fenton Village community vibrant and unique,” says Fusillo. “Fenton Village has it all. I urge residents to attend the Taste the World event to help ensure that our neighborhood businesses and our community continue to thrive.”
Restaurants ranging from Abyssinia Restaurant (Ethiopian) to ZED’s Café (Internet coffee shop) are participating in Taste the World. Hosted by the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board, with help from Silver Spring Town Center Inc., the event also features musical entertainment.
Event attendees will pick up their Taste the World passports at Parking Lot 3 on Fenton Street between Thayer and Silver Spring avenues beginning at 1p.m. Once participants have their fill of the range of tastes, they can enter a free drawing for prizes from local merchants.
The Silver Spring Metro Station is a 10-minute walk from the stage area. Free parking will be available at Parking Lot 3 as well as Parking Garage #4 on Silver Spring Avenue.
For more information, call 240-832-3078 or visit www.tastetheworldfentonvillage.orgfor maps, a list of participating restaurants, and other event details. Additional information about Fenton Village and downtown Silver Spring is available at www.silverspringtowncenter.com.
County Sponsors Disability Resource Fair
County Sponsors Disability Resource Fair
The public is invited to attend the annual Disability Resource Fair to learn more about programs and services for children and adults with disabilities. The fair is free and will be held on Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building, located at One Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. Free parking is available in the parking garage located on Ellsworth Drive, adjacent to the Civic Building.
More than 50 organizations and businesses will be on hand to share information about recreation, employment, respite and other support services for individuals with disabilities and their families.
The Resource Fair is sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services, Aging and Disability Services’ Community Support Network and Montgomery College.
Those requiring special aids or services to participate in this event should call240-777-1216 (voice) or 800-201-7165 (MD Relay) by Wednesday, May 2.
For more information, call the Community Support Network at240-777-1216.
The public is invited to attend the annual Disability Resource Fair to learn more about programs and services for children and adults with disabilities. The fair is free and will be held on Saturday, May 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building, located at One Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. Free parking is available in the parking garage located on Ellsworth Drive, adjacent to the Civic Building.
More than 50 organizations and businesses will be on hand to share information about recreation, employment, respite and other support services for individuals with disabilities and their families.
The Resource Fair is sponsored by the Department of Health and Human Services, Aging and Disability Services’ Community Support Network and Montgomery College.
Those requiring special aids or services to participate in this event should call240-777-1216 (voice) or 800-201-7165 (MD Relay) by Wednesday, May 2.
For more information, call the Community Support Network at240-777-1216.
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board
The deadline for application is April 23,2012.
Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link.
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board
The deadline for application is April 23,2012.
Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link.
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
Residents Invited to Participate in Live Online Discussion with County Executive Ike Leggett on County Budget
Residents Invited to Participate in Live Online Discussion with County Executive Ike Leggett on County Budget
Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett will hold a “virtual” Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, April 18 from 1 to 2 p.m. County residents will be able to talk with the County Executive and ask questions through the County’s website by clicking on the Live Discussion with Ike Leggett link.
Residents interested in participating in the online chat can enter questions prior to or during the live discussion. Questions and answers will be available for viewing both during and after the chat.
For more information, call the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett will hold a “virtual” Town Hall Meeting on Wednesday, April 18 from 1 to 2 p.m. County residents will be able to talk with the County Executive and ask questions through the County’s website by clicking on the Live Discussion with Ike Leggett link.
Residents interested in participating in the online chat can enter questions prior to or during the live discussion. Questions and answers will be available for viewing both during and after the chat.
For more information, call the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
MCPS PARENT ACADEMY
MCPS PARENT ACADEMY
Curriculum 2.0
Wednesday, April 18
7:00-8:30pm
Somerset ES, 5811 Warwick Pl., Chevy Chase20815
Curriculum 2.0 creates a more exciting learning experience for students in Grades K-2. Curriculum 2.0 blends reading/language arts and mathematics instruction with lessons in science, social studies, music, art, and physical education in a way that spurs creativity and critical thinking skills. Come learn about the new integrated curriculum at this session.
The Teen Years: Effective Parenting Skills
Thursday, April 19
7:00-8:30pm
Neelsville MS, 11700 Neelsville Church Rd., Germantown20876
GUIDE Youth Services will present the tools you need to help develop effective parenting skills during the teenage years. Learn how to strengthen and enhance family communication and explore techniques to develop age-appropriate expectations of behavior and consequences.
College Preparation and Scholarship Fair
Saturday, April 21
1:00-4:00pm
The Universities at Shady Grove, 9630 Gudelsky Dr.,Building II, Rockville20850
Attention 6th through 10th grade students and parents! Now is the time to start planning for life after high school. Attend the College Preparation and Scholarship Fair to meet representatives from universities and different careers, tour the Universities at Shady Grove facility, attend informational breakout sessions and learn about financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Advance registration is highly recommended through the Parent Academy
*Childcare and Spanish interpretation are provided at all workshops.
To register and see other upcoming workshops, please visit http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/parentacademy/
Curriculum 2.0
Wednesday, April 18
7:00-8:30pm
Somerset ES, 5811 Warwick Pl., Chevy Chase20815
Curriculum 2.0 creates a more exciting learning experience for students in Grades K-2. Curriculum 2.0 blends reading/language arts and mathematics instruction with lessons in science, social studies, music, art, and physical education in a way that spurs creativity and critical thinking skills. Come learn about the new integrated curriculum at this session.
The Teen Years: Effective Parenting Skills
Thursday, April 19
7:00-8:30pm
Neelsville MS, 11700 Neelsville Church Rd., Germantown20876
GUIDE Youth Services will present the tools you need to help develop effective parenting skills during the teenage years. Learn how to strengthen and enhance family communication and explore techniques to develop age-appropriate expectations of behavior and consequences.
College Preparation and Scholarship Fair
Saturday, April 21
1:00-4:00pm
The Universities at Shady Grove, 9630 Gudelsky Dr.,Building II, Rockville20850
Attention 6th through 10th grade students and parents! Now is the time to start planning for life after high school. Attend the College Preparation and Scholarship Fair to meet representatives from universities and different careers, tour the Universities at Shady Grove facility, attend informational breakout sessions and learn about financial aid and scholarship opportunities. Advance registration is highly recommended through the Parent Academy
*Childcare and Spanish interpretation are provided at all workshops.
To register and see other upcoming workshops, please visit http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/parentacademy/
Parent Support Group
Parent Support Group
New support group for parents and primary caregivers who have children with emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges beginning April 15.
LOCATION: Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, Colesville Professional Building, 13321 New Hampshire Avenue, Terrace B, Silver Spring, MD 20904
Note: Use the Terrace entrance located on the side of the building near the Bank of America to get to the Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health office. Parking is available on the side near the gas station and in the back of the building. Do not park in the Bank of America lot.
DATES: Third Sunday of Every Month
TIME: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Families will join a supportive community of parents and other primary caregivers who have transition-age youth and young adults with emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges. They will have a safe place where they can discuss their challenges, find support, explore their needs, and learn about resources.
Beverages and snacks will be provided.
To RVSP or get more information, contact cserkin@mcfof.orgor 301-879-5200, ext. 27.
New support group for parents and primary caregivers who have children with emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges beginning April 15.
LOCATION: Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health, Colesville Professional Building, 13321 New Hampshire Avenue, Terrace B, Silver Spring, MD 20904
Note: Use the Terrace entrance located on the side of the building near the Bank of America to get to the Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health office. Parking is available on the side near the gas station and in the back of the building. Do not park in the Bank of America lot.
DATES: Third Sunday of Every Month
TIME: 1:30 – 3:30 pm
Families will join a supportive community of parents and other primary caregivers who have transition-age youth and young adults with emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges. They will have a safe place where they can discuss their challenges, find support, explore their needs, and learn about resources.
Beverages and snacks will be provided.
To RVSP or get more information, contact cserkin@mcfof.orgor 301-879-5200, ext. 27.
April 8 – 14 is Severe Storm Awareness Week
April 8 – 14 is Severe Storm Awareness Week; Residents Urged to Prepare for Severe Weather and Other Emergencies
During National Severe Storm Awareness Week (April 8 – 14) Montgomery County’s Office of Homeland Security is urging residents to ensure they are prepared for the next storm , whether it is tornados, hurricanes, possibility of high winds, power outages, severe lightning, hail or flooding. Last year, the state of Maryland experienced 27 tornado incidents.
Anyone who has not already signed up for the County’s Alert Montgomery notification system is encouraged to do so by going to https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov and selecting the types of emergency alerts they are interested in receiving. Options include weather, severe traffic, schools, parks and government facilities, athletic fields and public events. Residents then specify the devices to which the messages should be sent --cell phones, text pagers, wireless PDAs, home and work emails.
“A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference in how well an individual fares during a severe storm,” said Chris Voss, director of the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security. “Simple things like maintaining a first aid kit with essential medications for emergencies and keeping at least one gallon of water per person per day on hand can significantly improve personal safety during a severe storm.”
During a severe storm incident, be sure to heed warnings issued by the National Weather Service. A severe storm/thunderstorm watch means there is a possibility of storm activity in the area. A severe storm/thunderstorm warning means activity is occurring or will be occurring soon. Actions to protect life and property should begin immediately when a warning is issued.
Some other severe storm tips to remember:
Prior to the emergency:
Keep enough food, water, medication (if needed) and batteries on hand in the event that power is lost during severe storms.
Check portable radios, smoke detectors and flashlights to ensure they are properly operating and that the batteries are fresh.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports; if emergency officials advise residents to evacuate, do so without delay.
Residents living in low-lying areas where flooding is anticipated, should remove furniture and valuables from those areas that are prone to water accumulation.
If strong winds are predicted (in excess of 70 miles per hour), consider boarding up windows to prevent breakage; trash cans and other unsecured items in the yard should be taken indoors.
Don’t drive during a severe storm, but, if you must, stay away from roads near rivers and streams and areas where flooding may occur. Never cross over a roadway that has flowing water.
During an emergency:
Stay indoors and away from windows; if tornado or hurricane-force winds are predicted, relocate to the basement or a room that has no windows.
If outside, seek shelter indoors immediately.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports for emergency information; if told to evacuate by emergency officials, do so immediately.
If power is lost, do not use candles for lighting, use flashlights.
After the emergency:
Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters; if refrigeration is lost due to a power outage, perishable foods such as meat and milk products may not be safe to eat and should be discarded.
Call utility companies to report downed lines and power outages.
Severe storm information and publications are available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) website at www.nws.noaa.gov and www.education.noaa.gov.
For more information, call 3-1-1.
During National Severe Storm Awareness Week (April 8 – 14) Montgomery County’s Office of Homeland Security is urging residents to ensure they are prepared for the next storm , whether it is tornados, hurricanes, possibility of high winds, power outages, severe lightning, hail or flooding. Last year, the state of Maryland experienced 27 tornado incidents.
Anyone who has not already signed up for the County’s Alert Montgomery notification system is encouraged to do so by going to https://alert.montgomerycountymd.gov and selecting the types of emergency alerts they are interested in receiving. Options include weather, severe traffic, schools, parks and government facilities, athletic fields and public events. Residents then specify the devices to which the messages should be sent --cell phones, text pagers, wireless PDAs, home and work emails.
“A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference in how well an individual fares during a severe storm,” said Chris Voss, director of the Montgomery County Office of Homeland Security. “Simple things like maintaining a first aid kit with essential medications for emergencies and keeping at least one gallon of water per person per day on hand can significantly improve personal safety during a severe storm.”
During a severe storm incident, be sure to heed warnings issued by the National Weather Service. A severe storm/thunderstorm watch means there is a possibility of storm activity in the area. A severe storm/thunderstorm warning means activity is occurring or will be occurring soon. Actions to protect life and property should begin immediately when a warning is issued.
Some other severe storm tips to remember:
Prior to the emergency:
Keep enough food, water, medication (if needed) and batteries on hand in the event that power is lost during severe storms.
Check portable radios, smoke detectors and flashlights to ensure they are properly operating and that the batteries are fresh.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports; if emergency officials advise residents to evacuate, do so without delay.
Residents living in low-lying areas where flooding is anticipated, should remove furniture and valuables from those areas that are prone to water accumulation.
If strong winds are predicted (in excess of 70 miles per hour), consider boarding up windows to prevent breakage; trash cans and other unsecured items in the yard should be taken indoors.
Don’t drive during a severe storm, but, if you must, stay away from roads near rivers and streams and areas where flooding may occur. Never cross over a roadway that has flowing water.
During an emergency:
Stay indoors and away from windows; if tornado or hurricane-force winds are predicted, relocate to the basement or a room that has no windows.
If outside, seek shelter indoors immediately.
Stay tuned to local weather and news reports for emergency information; if told to evacuate by emergency officials, do so immediately.
If power is lost, do not use candles for lighting, use flashlights.
After the emergency:
Do not use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters; if refrigeration is lost due to a power outage, perishable foods such as meat and milk products may not be safe to eat and should be discarded.
Call utility companies to report downed lines and power outages.
Severe storm information and publications are available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) website at www.nws.noaa.gov and www.education.noaa.gov.
For more information, call 3-1-1.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Opportunities to serve on County Board/Committees/Commissions
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents. Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints a represented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
Commission on Children and Youth
Commission on Children and Youth - Youth
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Committee
Strathmore Hall Foundation Board of Directors
Taxicab Services Advisory Committee
Water Quality Advisory Group
The deadline for application is April 18,2012.
Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link.
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
Commission on Children and Youth
Commission on Children and Youth - Youth
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Committee
Strathmore Hall Foundation Board of Directors
Taxicab Services Advisory Committee
Water Quality Advisory Group
The deadline for application is April 18,2012.
Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link.
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply. An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be sent by mail to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe Street, 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD 20850, or by email to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.
Members of County boards, committees and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. Members of these boards are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for meetings attended. Leggett’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications of individuals selected for appointment are made public as part of the confirmation process.
County Residents Invited to Attend 12th Annual Housing Fair and Financial Fitness Day
County Residents Invited to Attend 12th Annual Housing Fair and Financial Fitness Day
The Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA), in partnership with the Montgomery County Housing Fair Committee, will host the 12th Annual Montgomery County Housing Fairand Financial Fitness Day on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bohrer Park Activity Center, Summit Hall Farm, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg. County residents with questions about housing resources and programs are invited and encouraged to attend.
This year’s fair will offer loan modifications on site, as well as free foreclosure prevention counseling, free credit reports and analysis, guidance for people looking for affordable rental properties, information on avoiding housing scams and information on the legal implications of housing problems, including the tax consequences of short sales. In addition, home owners interested in refinancing and homeowners who have been foreclosed upon can find out if they meet the criteria for financial assistance under a recent settlement between the Maryland Office of the Attorney General; the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation; the federal government; and five leading bank mortgage services.
Sponsors and exhibitors – local housing providers, realtors, property managers, businesses, banks, credit unions, government agencies, community organizations and nonprofits – still have time to register. Sponsors will receive special recognition and publicity benefits as well as prime booth space at the fair for displaying their promotional materials. Exhibitors are encouraged to register before April 6 to receive a reduced rate. Last year more than 90 sponsors and exhibitors participated and more than 1,000 people attended.
“We are receiving numerous calls about mortgage-related financial assistance made available by the federal government,” said Myriam Torrico, DHCA administrator of Community Programs. “Fairgoers will have the opportunity to receive information about federal, state and local housing initiatives and learn whether they qualify. Another important component of the fair is financial literacy. Information about free financial education classes and free accounts will be distributed at the fair by Bank On Gaithersburg.” A program run by the City of Gaithersburg in conjunction with area banks, Bank On Gaithersburg offers free bank accounts to eligible customers.
In addition to DHCA, the Housing Fair Planning Committee includes the cities of Gaithersburg, Rockville and Takoma Park; Asian American Homeownership Counseling; Housing and Community Initiatives, Inc.; Housing Initiative Partnership, Inc.; Housing Opportunities Commission; Latino Economic Development Corporation; Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development; Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services; Montgomery County Office of Human Rights; and the office of U.S. Congressman Chris Van Hollen.
To become a sponsor or exhibitor, contact Myriam Torrico at 240-777-3627 oremail myriam.torrico@montgomerycountymd.gov.
For more information about the fair, call 240-777-3602 or visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dhca.
The Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA), in partnership with the Montgomery County Housing Fair Committee, will host the 12th Annual Montgomery County Housing Fairand Financial Fitness Day on Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bohrer Park Activity Center, Summit Hall Farm, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg. County residents with questions about housing resources and programs are invited and encouraged to attend.
This year’s fair will offer loan modifications on site, as well as free foreclosure prevention counseling, free credit reports and analysis, guidance for people looking for affordable rental properties, information on avoiding housing scams and information on the legal implications of housing problems, including the tax consequences of short sales. In addition, home owners interested in refinancing and homeowners who have been foreclosed upon can find out if they meet the criteria for financial assistance under a recent settlement between the Maryland Office of the Attorney General; the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s Office of the Commissioner of Financial Regulation; the federal government; and five leading bank mortgage services.
Sponsors and exhibitors – local housing providers, realtors, property managers, businesses, banks, credit unions, government agencies, community organizations and nonprofits – still have time to register. Sponsors will receive special recognition and publicity benefits as well as prime booth space at the fair for displaying their promotional materials. Exhibitors are encouraged to register before April 6 to receive a reduced rate. Last year more than 90 sponsors and exhibitors participated and more than 1,000 people attended.
“We are receiving numerous calls about mortgage-related financial assistance made available by the federal government,” said Myriam Torrico, DHCA administrator of Community Programs. “Fairgoers will have the opportunity to receive information about federal, state and local housing initiatives and learn whether they qualify. Another important component of the fair is financial literacy. Information about free financial education classes and free accounts will be distributed at the fair by Bank On Gaithersburg.” A program run by the City of Gaithersburg in conjunction with area banks, Bank On Gaithersburg offers free bank accounts to eligible customers.
In addition to DHCA, the Housing Fair Planning Committee includes the cities of Gaithersburg, Rockville and Takoma Park; Asian American Homeownership Counseling; Housing and Community Initiatives, Inc.; Housing Initiative Partnership, Inc.; Housing Opportunities Commission; Latino Economic Development Corporation; Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development; Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services; Montgomery County Office of Human Rights; and the office of U.S. Congressman Chris Van Hollen.
To become a sponsor or exhibitor, contact Myriam Torrico at 240-777-3627 oremail myriam.torrico@montgomerycountymd.gov.
For more information about the fair, call 240-777-3602 or visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dhca.
County Seeks Volunteers for Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
County Seeks Volunteers for Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
Montgomery County’s Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is seeking individuals interested in helping to enhance the quality of life for nursing home residents as long-term care advocates with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services. Volunteers will be assigned to make regular visits to residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities at convenient locations throughout Montgomery County. Ombudsmen representatives work to promote the highest quality of life for residents in nursing home settings and help to resolve problems.
This volunteer opportunity demands flexible daytime hours during the work week and creativity in developing problem solving strategies. It is an advanced level of commitment and requires the ability to work autonomously with support and guidance. Training and on-going technical assistance are provided by experienced professionals.
The intensive orientation program for volunteer candidates is a comprehensive training focused on promoting resident rights in nursing home and assisted living systems. Using advocacy skills and applicable laws, volunteers will work to resolve complaints. The orientation will be held during the week of Monday, May 21 through Friday, May 25 at Holiday Park Senior Center in Wheaton. The course meets daily from9a.m. to 3 p.m. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Contact Eileen Bennett at eileen.bennett@Montgomerycountymd.gov or 240-777-1067 to learn more.
Montgomery County’s Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is seeking individuals interested in helping to enhance the quality of life for nursing home residents as long-term care advocates with the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services. Volunteers will be assigned to make regular visits to residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities at convenient locations throughout Montgomery County. Ombudsmen representatives work to promote the highest quality of life for residents in nursing home settings and help to resolve problems.
This volunteer opportunity demands flexible daytime hours during the work week and creativity in developing problem solving strategies. It is an advanced level of commitment and requires the ability to work autonomously with support and guidance. Training and on-going technical assistance are provided by experienced professionals.
The intensive orientation program for volunteer candidates is a comprehensive training focused on promoting resident rights in nursing home and assisted living systems. Using advocacy skills and applicable laws, volunteers will work to resolve complaints. The orientation will be held during the week of Monday, May 21 through Friday, May 25 at Holiday Park Senior Center in Wheaton. The course meets daily from9a.m. to 3 p.m. Class size is limited and pre-registration is required. Contact Eileen Bennett at eileen.bennett@Montgomerycountymd.gov or 240-777-1067 to learn more.
Congressman Chris Van Hollen announces his Service Academy Forum
Congressman Chris Van Hollen announces his Service Academy Forum with representatives from the:
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
U.S. COAST GUARD ACADEMY (New London, Connecticut)
U.S. MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY (Kings Point, New York)
U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY (West Point, New York)
U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY (Annapolis, Maryland)
FOR CLASSES ENTERING JULY 2013
All interested 9th, 10th and 11th grade students and their parents are
invited to attend to learn about the academies and their admission
requirements.
April 11, 2012
7:00 – 8:30 pm (Panel convenes at 7:15 pm)
Montgomery County Council Office Building, Cafeteria
100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850
For information, please contact Representative Van Hollen’s district
office at (301) 424-3501.
Entrance to Cafeteria is on Maryland Avenue at intersection with E. Jefferson Street
Parking Options: all lots are available at no charge after 6:00 pm
Council Office Building (COB) parking garage – Entrance is on Monroe Street at
intersection with E.
Jefferson Street.
City of Rockville Town Hall LOWER lot – entrance on S. Washington Street
Metered parking is available on the neighborhood streets
U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
U.S. COAST GUARD ACADEMY (New London, Connecticut)
U.S. MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY (Kings Point, New York)
U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY (West Point, New York)
U.S. NAVAL ACADEMY (Annapolis, Maryland)
FOR CLASSES ENTERING JULY 2013
All interested 9th, 10th and 11th grade students and their parents are
invited to attend to learn about the academies and their admission
requirements.
April 11, 2012
7:00 – 8:30 pm (Panel convenes at 7:15 pm)
Montgomery County Council Office Building, Cafeteria
100 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, Maryland 20850
For information, please contact Representative Van Hollen’s district
office at (301) 424-3501.
Entrance to Cafeteria is on Maryland Avenue at intersection with E. Jefferson Street
Parking Options: all lots are available at no charge after 6:00 pm
Council Office Building (COB) parking garage – Entrance is on Monroe Street at
intersection with E.
Jefferson Street.
City of Rockville Town Hall LOWER lot – entrance on S. Washington Street
Metered parking is available on the neighborhood streets
Commission for Women Presents Seminars on the Legal Process of Separation and Divorce
Commission for Women Presents Seminars on the Legal Process of Separation and Divorce
The Montgomery County Commission for Women, in partnership with the Bar Association of Montgomery County, Family Law Section; the Montgomery County Women’s Bar Association; and the Montgomery County Divorce Roundtable will present two seminars that focus on the legal process of separation and divorce in Montgomery County. Both seminars will take place at the Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Avenue, Suite 330.
The first seminar, entitled “When a Marriage Ends: Financial, Property and Practical Issues Both Wife and Husband Must Consider,” is scheduled for Thursday, April 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. Some of the topics that will be covered include grounds for divorce; types of divorce; what to expect in court and alternatives to court; alimony; property division; domestic violence and role of the attorney.
The second seminar, “What About the Children?” is scheduled for Thursday, April 26 from 7 to 9 p.m. Topics include parental responsibilities during and after divorce; powers of the court; family property; child custody and support; and tips for divorcing parents.
The seminars will be presented by mediator/arbitrator Robert L. Baum, Esq. and P. Lindsay Parvis, Esq., Draggs, Hannon, Hessler & Willis, LLP. Topre-register for one or both seminars, go to http://divorcelawseminar.eventbrite.com/. The fee is $10 per seminar if pre-registering and $15 at the door.
For more information, call 240-777-8300.
The Montgomery County Commission for Women, in partnership with the Bar Association of Montgomery County, Family Law Section; the Montgomery County Women’s Bar Association; and the Montgomery County Divorce Roundtable will present two seminars that focus on the legal process of separation and divorce in Montgomery County. Both seminars will take place at the Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Avenue, Suite 330.
The first seminar, entitled “When a Marriage Ends: Financial, Property and Practical Issues Both Wife and Husband Must Consider,” is scheduled for Thursday, April 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. Some of the topics that will be covered include grounds for divorce; types of divorce; what to expect in court and alternatives to court; alimony; property division; domestic violence and role of the attorney.
The second seminar, “What About the Children?” is scheduled for Thursday, April 26 from 7 to 9 p.m. Topics include parental responsibilities during and after divorce; powers of the court; family property; child custody and support; and tips for divorcing parents.
The seminars will be presented by mediator/arbitrator Robert L. Baum, Esq. and P. Lindsay Parvis, Esq., Draggs, Hannon, Hessler & Willis, LLP. Topre-register for one or both seminars, go to http://divorcelawseminar.eventbrite.com/. The fee is $10 per seminar if pre-registering and $15 at the door.
For more information, call 240-777-8300.
Ride On’s Annual Food Drive to be Held Week of April 22
Ride On’s Annual Food Drive to be Held Week of April 22;Donate Food and Take Ride On for Free
Ride On bus passengers in Montgomery County can help needy families and receive free bus rides by donating canned or nonperishable food during Ride On’s annual food drive from Sunday, April 22 through Saturday, April 28. Or, those who do not ride the bus but wish to donate food can participate by giving their donations to a bus operator at any Ride On bus stop. Food collected through the drive goes to Manna Food Center, which feeds 3,000 hungry families a month.
“Especially in these times of economic hardship, more people are in need of food than ever before and the food collected through Ride On’s ‘Give and Ride’ program is of tremendous benefit,” said Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett. “Give and Ride is a wonderful opportunity for bus riders to conveniently help other Montgomery County residents who are going hungry and for the County to recognize the donors’ generosity. It is also a great way to show our community spirit by giving and sharing.”
For more than 20 years, Ride On collected food at Thanksgiving. However, food donation centers tend to receive more food than they can store during the winter holiday season. So four years ago, Manna Food Center, the non-profit organization that distributes Ride On’s food contributions, asked Ride On to change the time of its food drive to the Spring.
“Manna is grateful for the continued partnership with Ride On,” said Kim Damion, executive director for Manna Food Center.“The spring food drive is very important as the need in our community continues to escalate. We have seen a nearly 10 percent increase in the number of families needing assistance compared to last year -- evidence that more families than ever before are struggling to put a meal on the table for their family. We look forward to a very successful ‘Give and Ride’ collection and ask for the community’s support so Manna can continue to meet the need in Montgomery County. Special thanks to all the drivers and passengers of Ride On for their support.”
During the Give and Ride promotion, food collection bags will be placed near the fare boxes on all Ride On buses. Riders using free shuttles and other transit services can participate by bringing their donations to a Ride On bus. In addition to non-perishable food, children’s items are also needed. Disposable diapers, formula, baby or toddler food and juice are especially useful to families in need. Plastic containers are preferred.
“We ask our riders to donate generously to this year’s food drive,” said Carolyn Biggins, general manager of Ride On. “There are more and more area families who are truly hungry, and this is one way our riders and our staff can help.”
All food donations, regardless of the number of cans, will be valued at the regular fare rate of $1.70. Passengers who transfer buses will need an additional food donation to ride free on the second bus.
Checks made out to Manna Food Center will also be accepted. Writing in “Ride On” on the “For” or “Memo” line in the lower left corner of a check will make it easier to track the success of the program.
For bus stop locations or bus schedules, call 311 or TDD/TTY 240-773-3556. Route and timetable information is also available on Ride On’s web site at www.rideonbus.com. SmarTrip® cards and passes can also be purchased online.
Ride On bus passengers in Montgomery County can help needy families and receive free bus rides by donating canned or nonperishable food during Ride On’s annual food drive from Sunday, April 22 through Saturday, April 28. Or, those who do not ride the bus but wish to donate food can participate by giving their donations to a bus operator at any Ride On bus stop. Food collected through the drive goes to Manna Food Center, which feeds 3,000 hungry families a month.
“Especially in these times of economic hardship, more people are in need of food than ever before and the food collected through Ride On’s ‘Give and Ride’ program is of tremendous benefit,” said Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett. “Give and Ride is a wonderful opportunity for bus riders to conveniently help other Montgomery County residents who are going hungry and for the County to recognize the donors’ generosity. It is also a great way to show our community spirit by giving and sharing.”
For more than 20 years, Ride On collected food at Thanksgiving. However, food donation centers tend to receive more food than they can store during the winter holiday season. So four years ago, Manna Food Center, the non-profit organization that distributes Ride On’s food contributions, asked Ride On to change the time of its food drive to the Spring.
“Manna is grateful for the continued partnership with Ride On,” said Kim Damion, executive director for Manna Food Center.“The spring food drive is very important as the need in our community continues to escalate. We have seen a nearly 10 percent increase in the number of families needing assistance compared to last year -- evidence that more families than ever before are struggling to put a meal on the table for their family. We look forward to a very successful ‘Give and Ride’ collection and ask for the community’s support so Manna can continue to meet the need in Montgomery County. Special thanks to all the drivers and passengers of Ride On for their support.”
During the Give and Ride promotion, food collection bags will be placed near the fare boxes on all Ride On buses. Riders using free shuttles and other transit services can participate by bringing their donations to a Ride On bus. In addition to non-perishable food, children’s items are also needed. Disposable diapers, formula, baby or toddler food and juice are especially useful to families in need. Plastic containers are preferred.
“We ask our riders to donate generously to this year’s food drive,” said Carolyn Biggins, general manager of Ride On. “There are more and more area families who are truly hungry, and this is one way our riders and our staff can help.”
All food donations, regardless of the number of cans, will be valued at the regular fare rate of $1.70. Passengers who transfer buses will need an additional food donation to ride free on the second bus.
Checks made out to Manna Food Center will also be accepted. Writing in “Ride On” on the “For” or “Memo” line in the lower left corner of a check will make it easier to track the success of the program.
For bus stop locations or bus schedules, call 311 or TDD/TTY 240-773-3556. Route and timetable information is also available on Ride On’s web site at www.rideonbus.com. SmarTrip® cards and passes can also be purchased online.
City Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
City Celebrates Arab American Heritage Month
In celebration of Arab American Heritage Month, the City of Gaithersburg’s Multicultural Affairs Committee presents “Caring and Advocacy: Arab Americans Making a Difference.” The event takes place on Monday, April 23 in the City Hall Gallery, 31 S. Summit Avenue. A reception will be held from 6 to 7:15 p.m., followed by a proclamation delivered in the Council Chambers during the Mayor and City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Please join us for an evening of traditional Arab cuisine and a commemoration of Arab Americans who have made contributions in the areas of caring and advocacy. The event will feature a presentation by Minaret of Freedom Institute President and Director Dr. Imad-ad-Dean Ahmed, an internationally known interdisciplinary scientist and author. Dr. Ahmed is also a senior lecturer at the University of Maryland, as well as an adjunct professor at Wesley Theological Seminary.
The annual proclamation in celebration of Arab American Heritage will declare April 2012 as Arab American Heritage Month in the City of Gaithersburg and will recognize the Arab American community and its achievements and contributions to the fabric of our society.
The City’s celebration event is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested. Please e-mail SKnupp@gaithersburgmd.gov by April9, 2012 or call Sharon Knupp at 301-258-6350. For more information on Gaithersburg’s Multicultural Affairs Committee visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
In celebration of Arab American Heritage Month, the City of Gaithersburg’s Multicultural Affairs Committee presents “Caring and Advocacy: Arab Americans Making a Difference.” The event takes place on Monday, April 23 in the City Hall Gallery, 31 S. Summit Avenue. A reception will be held from 6 to 7:15 p.m., followed by a proclamation delivered in the Council Chambers during the Mayor and City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Please join us for an evening of traditional Arab cuisine and a commemoration of Arab Americans who have made contributions in the areas of caring and advocacy. The event will feature a presentation by Minaret of Freedom Institute President and Director Dr. Imad-ad-Dean Ahmed, an internationally known interdisciplinary scientist and author. Dr. Ahmed is also a senior lecturer at the University of Maryland, as well as an adjunct professor at Wesley Theological Seminary.
The annual proclamation in celebration of Arab American Heritage will declare April 2012 as Arab American Heritage Month in the City of Gaithersburg and will recognize the Arab American community and its achievements and contributions to the fabric of our society.
The City’s celebration event is free and open to the public, but reservations are requested. Please e-mail SKnupp@gaithersburgmd.gov by April9, 2012 or call Sharon Knupp at 301-258-6350. For more information on Gaithersburg’s Multicultural Affairs Committee visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.
Maya Walker Named 2012 Gaithersburg Junior Mayor
Maya Walker Named 2012 Gaithersburg Junior Mayor
Out of a field of 93 entries, Maya Walker of Gaithersburg Elementary School has been selected as Gaithersburg’s Junior Mayor for 2012. Her first appearance will be at the annual State of the City Address on April 19, 2012 and she will be officially introduced to the public at the Mayor and City Council meeting at Gaithersburg City Hallon May 21, 2012.
Earlier this year, 4th grade students throughout the City were invited to submit essays describing what they would do if they were mayor. The contest is sponsored statewide by the Maryland Municipal League (MML), the Maryland Mayors’ Association, the Injured Workers’ Insurance Fund and Local Government Insurance Trust. The theme this year was “Meeting the Challenge.”
Regardless of whether or not MML selects its state wide winner from a Gaithersburg school, the 93 entries were reviewed locally by members of the City’s Educational Enrichment Committee. Five finalists were identified and were invited to City Hall for a video interview, out of which Ms. Walker was selected as Gaithersburg’s Junior Mayor.
When asked during her interview why it is important for people to identify challenges and propose solutions, Ms. Walker responded, “It’s important to identify challenges because they can get out of hand and escalate to a bigger problem.” In her essay, Ms. Walker stated that “If I were mayor, I would have to face many challenges that endanger the Gaithersburg community. Insuring the safety of Gaithersburg’s citizens would be the main thing me and my council would be working at.”
The Junior Mayor will be invited to participate with Mayor Sidney Katz and members of the City Council in several public events throughout the year. Her winning essay is posted on the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/communityservices. For more information on the Junior Mayor program contact Gaithersburg’s Community Services Division at 301-258-6395.
Out of a field of 93 entries, Maya Walker of Gaithersburg Elementary School has been selected as Gaithersburg’s Junior Mayor for 2012. Her first appearance will be at the annual State of the City Address on April 19, 2012 and she will be officially introduced to the public at the Mayor and City Council meeting at Gaithersburg City Hallon May 21, 2012.
Earlier this year, 4th grade students throughout the City were invited to submit essays describing what they would do if they were mayor. The contest is sponsored statewide by the Maryland Municipal League (MML), the Maryland Mayors’ Association, the Injured Workers’ Insurance Fund and Local Government Insurance Trust. The theme this year was “Meeting the Challenge.”
Regardless of whether or not MML selects its state wide winner from a Gaithersburg school, the 93 entries were reviewed locally by members of the City’s Educational Enrichment Committee. Five finalists were identified and were invited to City Hall for a video interview, out of which Ms. Walker was selected as Gaithersburg’s Junior Mayor.
When asked during her interview why it is important for people to identify challenges and propose solutions, Ms. Walker responded, “It’s important to identify challenges because they can get out of hand and escalate to a bigger problem.” In her essay, Ms. Walker stated that “If I were mayor, I would have to face many challenges that endanger the Gaithersburg community. Insuring the safety of Gaithersburg’s citizens would be the main thing me and my council would be working at.”
The Junior Mayor will be invited to participate with Mayor Sidney Katz and members of the City Council in several public events throughout the year. Her winning essay is posted on the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/communityservices. For more information on the Junior Mayor program contact Gaithersburg’s Community Services Division at 301-258-6395.
Gaithersburg Book Festival Offers Adults and Teens Workshops
Gaithersburg Book Festival Offers Adults and Teens Workshops to Hone Skills and Find Success in “Being a Writer”
Whether you want to write the next “Hunger Games,” successfully pitch and publish your work, or get into the college of your dreams, the Gaithersburg Book Festival has a workshop for you. The Festival, which takes place on Saturday, May 19, is offering eight workshops designed to help aspiring writers sharpen their skills and get the results they desire when it comes to achieving their goal of “being a writer.”
The workshops, which are designed for specific age groups, include:
Adults (18+)
Perfecting the Pitch - presented by Scott Mastro, a literary fiction master-storyteller, and author of “Blood Money – Tales from Two Continents” and the forthcoming “Sticks & Stone – How the West Was Wonderful”
Short-Short Fiction in Text and Multimedia Forms - presented by Richard Peabody, founder and co-editor of Gargoyle magazine and editor (or co-editor) of 10 anthologies, and Rae Bryant, a noted author who teaches multimedia and creative writing at Johns Hopkins University and serves as editor in chief of the program’s new literary and arts journal, The Doctor T. J. Eckleburg Review
Ages 16+
Getting Your Work Out There - presented by Tony Mancus, a poet and a test writer who also teaches fiction and poetry for Writopia Lab and is co-founder of Flying Guillotine Press More Than Words: Making Dialogue Work - presented by Ron Capps, who earned an M.A. in writing from Johns Hopkins University, is founder and director of the Veterans Writing Project and author of “Writing War: A Guide to Telling Your Own Story”
What Machine’s Behind the Wheel? A Poetry Workshop - presented by Tony Mancus, a poet and a test writer who also teaches fiction and poetry for Writopia Lab, and is co-founder of Flying Guillotine Press
Ages 14+
Writing the Next “Hunger Games”… - presented by Pamela Ehrenberg, author of two young adult novels and workshop leader for Writopia Lab and The Writers Center
Grades 7-12
Scholastic Writing Awards: Mock Judging - presented by Kathy Crutcher, D.C. director and an instructor for Writopia Lab
High School Students
College Admissions Essays: What’s Your Story? - presented by Kathy Crutcher, D.C. director and an instructor for Writopia Lab
Advanced registration is required for these workshops, as space is limited. There is a nominal fee per workshop of $10 for adults and $5for full-time students. Registration can be completed online or in person at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park (506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877). If you choose online registration, you will find the Gaithersburg Book Festival Workshops under the Program tab, in the “Special Events” category. Online registration requires an account password to complete registration, which you will receive within 48 hours of setting up your account.
For more information or to register for the workshops, please visit http://gaithersburgbookfestival.org/gbf-programs/workshops.
About the Gaithersburg Book Festival
The Gaithersburg Book Festival is an annual all-day celebration of books, writers, and literary excellence. Now in its third year, the Festival has become one of the premier literary events in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The Festival will be held on May 19, 2012, on the grounds of Gaithersburg City Hall, with shuttle buses running from Lakeforest Mall. Activities include author appearances, discussions and book signings; writing workshops; a Children’s Village; a Coffee House with poets and singers/songwriters; onsite book sales, both new and used; exhibitors and, of course, food, drink, ice cream and more. Admission is free. For more information please visit www.gaithersburgbookfestival.org.
Whether you want to write the next “Hunger Games,” successfully pitch and publish your work, or get into the college of your dreams, the Gaithersburg Book Festival has a workshop for you. The Festival, which takes place on Saturday, May 19, is offering eight workshops designed to help aspiring writers sharpen their skills and get the results they desire when it comes to achieving their goal of “being a writer.”
The workshops, which are designed for specific age groups, include:
Adults (18+)
Perfecting the Pitch - presented by Scott Mastro, a literary fiction master-storyteller, and author of “Blood Money – Tales from Two Continents” and the forthcoming “Sticks & Stone – How the West Was Wonderful”
Short-Short Fiction in Text and Multimedia Forms - presented by Richard Peabody, founder and co-editor of Gargoyle magazine and editor (or co-editor) of 10 anthologies, and Rae Bryant, a noted author who teaches multimedia and creative writing at Johns Hopkins University and serves as editor in chief of the program’s new literary and arts journal, The Doctor T. J. Eckleburg Review
Ages 16+
Getting Your Work Out There - presented by Tony Mancus, a poet and a test writer who also teaches fiction and poetry for Writopia Lab and is co-founder of Flying Guillotine Press More Than Words: Making Dialogue Work - presented by Ron Capps, who earned an M.A. in writing from Johns Hopkins University, is founder and director of the Veterans Writing Project and author of “Writing War: A Guide to Telling Your Own Story”
What Machine’s Behind the Wheel? A Poetry Workshop - presented by Tony Mancus, a poet and a test writer who also teaches fiction and poetry for Writopia Lab, and is co-founder of Flying Guillotine Press
Ages 14+
Writing the Next “Hunger Games”… - presented by Pamela Ehrenberg, author of two young adult novels and workshop leader for Writopia Lab and The Writers Center
Grades 7-12
Scholastic Writing Awards: Mock Judging - presented by Kathy Crutcher, D.C. director and an instructor for Writopia Lab
High School Students
College Admissions Essays: What’s Your Story? - presented by Kathy Crutcher, D.C. director and an instructor for Writopia Lab
Advanced registration is required for these workshops, as space is limited. There is a nominal fee per workshop of $10 for adults and $5for full-time students. Registration can be completed online or in person at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park (506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877). If you choose online registration, you will find the Gaithersburg Book Festival Workshops under the Program tab, in the “Special Events” category. Online registration requires an account password to complete registration, which you will receive within 48 hours of setting up your account.
For more information or to register for the workshops, please visit http://gaithersburgbookfestival.org/gbf-programs/workshops.
About the Gaithersburg Book Festival
The Gaithersburg Book Festival is an annual all-day celebration of books, writers, and literary excellence. Now in its third year, the Festival has become one of the premier literary events in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The Festival will be held on May 19, 2012, on the grounds of Gaithersburg City Hall, with shuttle buses running from Lakeforest Mall. Activities include author appearances, discussions and book signings; writing workshops; a Children’s Village; a Coffee House with poets and singers/songwriters; onsite book sales, both new and used; exhibitors and, of course, food, drink, ice cream and more. Admission is free. For more information please visit www.gaithersburgbookfestival.org.
Month Ahead Story Planner and Upcoming Events
Month Ahead Story Planner and Upcoming Events from the Montgomery County Office of Public Information
The following events are scheduled for the coming month. All are subject to change and anyone interested in attending or covering one of these events should confirm the information beforehand with the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
Event: Art Exhibit to Benefit County’s Child Welfare Services “Adopt a Social Worker” Program
Date/Time: Beginning Thursday, April 5
Location: AmiciMiei Ristorante, 1093 Seven Locks Road, Potomac (Potomac Woods Plaza)
Event: Ribbon cutting for New,1,200 Space Glenmont Metro Parking Garage
Date/Time: Monday, April 16 at 11 a.m.
Location: Glenmont Metro Station, former Kiss & Ride Lot on west side of Georgia Avenue
Event: Dedication of New Public Safety Memorial
Date/Time: Friday, April 20 at 11 a.m.
Location: 100 Edison Park Drive, Rockville
Event: Ride On’s Annual Give and Ride Program Kicks Off
Date/Time: Monday, April 22
Details: RideOn passengers ride free with donation of food item between April 22 and 28
Event: Celebration to Kick Off Arab-American Heritage Month
Date/Time: Thursday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Executive Office Building, Lobby Level Auditorium, 101 Monroe St., Rockville
Event: 12th Annual Housing Fair and Financial Fitness Day
Date/Time: Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Activity Center at Bohrer Park, Summit Hall Farm, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg
Event: First Annual Montgomery Serves Awards Ceremony
Date/Time: Monday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda
The following events are scheduled for the coming month. All are subject to change and anyone interested in attending or covering one of these events should confirm the information beforehand with the Office of Public Information at 240-777-6507.
Event: Art Exhibit to Benefit County’s Child Welfare Services “Adopt a Social Worker” Program
Date/Time: Beginning Thursday, April 5
Location: AmiciMiei Ristorante, 1093 Seven Locks Road, Potomac (Potomac Woods Plaza)
Event: Ribbon cutting for New,1,200 Space Glenmont Metro Parking Garage
Date/Time: Monday, April 16 at 11 a.m.
Location: Glenmont Metro Station, former Kiss & Ride Lot on west side of Georgia Avenue
Event: Dedication of New Public Safety Memorial
Date/Time: Friday, April 20 at 11 a.m.
Location: 100 Edison Park Drive, Rockville
Event: Ride On’s Annual Give and Ride Program Kicks Off
Date/Time: Monday, April 22
Details: RideOn passengers ride free with donation of food item between April 22 and 28
Event: Celebration to Kick Off Arab-American Heritage Month
Date/Time: Thursday, April 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Executive Office Building, Lobby Level Auditorium, 101 Monroe St., Rockville
Event: 12th Annual Housing Fair and Financial Fitness Day
Date/Time: Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Activity Center at Bohrer Park, Summit Hall Farm, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg
Event: First Annual Montgomery Serves Awards Ceremony
Date/Time: Monday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda
Gilchrist Multicultural Center Opens Registration for Spring Programs
Gilchrist Multicultural Center Opens Registration for Spring Programs Beginning April 11
The Charles W. Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity will be holding its spring registration on April 11, 12 and 14. Registrations will be held at the Midcounty Regional Services Center located at 2424 Reedie Drive in Wheaton and the Upcounty Regional Services Center located at 12900 Middlebrook Road in Germantown.
New this spring, and in partnership with the East County Regional Services Center, is a class called “Connecting With Your Community,” which is designed to help immigrants better understand how County government works and promote civic participation.
Some of the classes that residents can register for include English as a Second Language (ESL), Citizenship Preparation, American Expressions and Idioms, Basic Computers and Spanish language classes. ESL classes are offered in both Wheaton and Germantown. Basic computers and Spanish language classes are offered in Wheaton only. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Registrations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals must register in person for ESL and computer classes and in person or by fax for Spanish language classes.
For more information about the spring session and registration times at the two centers, or to learn about other classes that are being offered, including non-registration-based ESL classes and pro bono legal clinics, call Dolores Ustrell-Roig at 240-777-4953.
The Charles W. Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity will be holding its spring registration on April 11, 12 and 14. Registrations will be held at the Midcounty Regional Services Center located at 2424 Reedie Drive in Wheaton and the Upcounty Regional Services Center located at 12900 Middlebrook Road in Germantown.
New this spring, and in partnership with the East County Regional Services Center, is a class called “Connecting With Your Community,” which is designed to help immigrants better understand how County government works and promote civic participation.
Some of the classes that residents can register for include English as a Second Language (ESL), Citizenship Preparation, American Expressions and Idioms, Basic Computers and Spanish language classes. ESL classes are offered in both Wheaton and Germantown. Basic computers and Spanish language classes are offered in Wheaton only. Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. Registrations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals must register in person for ESL and computer classes and in person or by fax for Spanish language classes.
For more information about the spring session and registration times at the two centers, or to learn about other classes that are being offered, including non-registration-based ESL classes and pro bono legal clinics, call Dolores Ustrell-Roig at 240-777-4953.
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