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Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee

Next Meeting: September 15th

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Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board

Next Meeting: September 12th

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A Message from County Executive Marc Elrich

Delfeayo Marsalis to Headline 17th Silver Spring Jazz Festival on Sept. 10

Montgomery County’s Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District announced Friday that Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra is headlining the Silver Spring Jazz Festival, which will take place on Saturday, Sept.10, from 3 to 10 p.m. in Veterans Plaza by the Silver Spring Civic Building located at One Veterans Place.

Silver Spring has previously presented both Wynton Marsalis and Branford Marsalis as headliners of the festival. Delfeayo, the trombonist of the famous musical family, is leading his 14 piece Uptown Jazz Orchestra in this free, outdoor jazz festival. Renowned for a large horn section and a vivacious concert performance, Delfeayo formed the Orchestra in 2008. The Uptown Jazz Orchestra is a highly entertaining ensemble that focuses on maintaining important jazz traditions such as riff playing, New Orleans polyphony and spontaneous arrangements.

As an acclaimed trombonist, composer, and producer, Delfeayo Marsalis has also dedicated his prolific career to music theatre and education. Along with the Marsalis family of musicians including his father Ellis, the artist was destined to a life in music. Marsalis has toured internationally with jazz legends such as Ray Charles, Art Blakey, Max Roach, Elvin Jones and Slide Hampton, as well as leading his own groups. At the age of 17, Marsalis began his career as a producer and has to date produced over 120 recordings garnering one Grammy award and several nominations.

The Silver Spring Jazz festival has multiple stages for entertainment with traditional straight ahead jazz, smooth jazz, funk, go-go, as well as jazz from Ethiopian, Afro Lusophone, and Latin jazz traditions. Silver Spring has earned a reputation of being one of the most diverse and dynamic communities in the country, where there is always something to do and enjoy. Activities and events embrace the Arts and Entertainment District’s culture of being a welcoming community that values vibrant arts and diverse cultural experiences.

This is the 17th year for the free, outdoor Silver Spring Jazz festival, which along with headliner Delfeayo Marsalis from New Orleans, will include a full lineup of diverse local talent including Marcus Johnson. Marcus Johnson is a hometown Silver Spring artist who grew to national fame for his smooth jazz. He will be performing a jazz and go-go set with Crank and Flo. The full list of performers can be found on the Silver Spring Jazz Festival website.

New this year, the Jazz Festival will feature a beer garden with offerings from the multiple breweries in the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District. The area will feature food service, comfortable seating, art and entertainment. Silver Spring is highlighting the amazing craft beers brewed in the district, and the walkable footprint of enjoying the brewery and arts district.

Additional Information:

The Silver Spring Jazz Festival is a free event. International and American restaurants surround the festival site. Restrooms, first aid, and additional services can be found on-site. Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation and to bring a blanket and/or low back lawn chairs for seating. The festival is located a short distance from the Silver Spring Metro station. Additional information about the jazz festival can be found at the Silver Spring Jazz Festival website.

Metro and Parking:

https://www.silverspringdowntown.com/silver-spring-jazz-festival/parking

Visitor Services:

https://www.silverspringdowntown.com/silver-spring-jazz-festival/visitor-services

Photos of the headliner are available at: https://www.dmarsalis.com/photos/

Montgomery County Holiday Schedule for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 5

The Montgomery County Government, and programs that impact County residents, will observe schedule and program changes for the observance of Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 5.

• County offices—Closed.
• State offices and courts—Closed.
• State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
• Libraries—Closed.
• Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—All stores will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• County-operated COVID-19 Vaccination and Testing Clinics—Closed.
• Ride On—Will operate on a Sunday schedule. All schedules can be viewed at com.
• Ride On extRa and Flex—Not in service.
• Flash—Will operate on a weekend schedule (Orange Line only).
• MARC Train and Commuter Bus— No service.
• TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store—Closed.
• Metrorail—Will operate on its Sunday Holiday schedule with service from 7 a.m.-midnight.
• Metrobus—Will operate on a Sunday service schedule.
• Parking at public garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
• County-provided trash and recycling collections will not be made on Labor Day, Sept. 5. Collections will slide one day during the week, with the last pickup on Saturday, Sept. 10. 
• Shady Grove Transfer Station and Recycling Center—Closed.
• Recreation: County outdoor aquatic facilities will be open 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-6 p.m., with the exception of the Upper County outdoor pool (it will be closed). Kennedy Shriver Aquatic Center and Olney Swim Center facilities will close at 6 p.m. The Germantown Indoor Swim Center and Martin Luther King Jr. Swim Center will be closed.
• Community recreation and senior centers—Closed Saturday, Sept. 3 through Monday Sept. 5.  
• Montgomery Parks—Visit MontgomeryParks.org for complete information.
• The Open Parkways program will be extended through 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6, at 7 a.m.  
• Portions of Sligo Creek Parkway and Beach Drive will be open to pedestrians and bicyclists for exercise and recreation. 
• Open to pedestrians and bicyclists (closed to motor vehicles) from 9 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 2, through 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 6:Sligo Creek Parkway; Old Carroll Avenue to Piney Branch Road (1.1 miles); Forest Glen Road to University Boulevard West (1.5 miles); Beach Drive from Connecticut Avenue to Knowles Avenue (2.7 miles).
• NOTE: The Open Parkways program on Little Falls Parkway is suspended while a traffic study is underway for that portion of the parkway.  
• The South Germantown SplashPark and Mini-Golfwill be open Saturday, Sept. 3, through Monday, Sept. 5, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.   
• Lake Needwood Boat rentals—Open Saturday, Sept. 3, and Sunday, Sept. 4, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Black Hill Boat Rentals--Open Saturday, Sept. 3, through Monday, Sept. 5, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 
• Parks, trails,gardens, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations, and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts*--Open daily, sunrise to sunset. (*Select outdoor courts are available for rental.)   
• The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreational Parkand street hockey/futsal rink at  Dewey Local Park may be permitted, or are available first come, first served, if not reserved.   
• Picnic shelters and campfire rings—Available for rental at several locations.    
• Little Bennett Campground: Open.   
• Cabin John Miniature Trainand Wheaton Miniature Train and Carousel—Open Saturday through Sunday, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.  
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis Center—Open Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center—Open Friday through Sunday, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. 
• South Germantown Driving Range—Open.   
• Brookside Gardens--Grounds open daily sunrise-sunset, Visitor Center open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Gift Shop open daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Conservatory open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.   
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park--Open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.  
• Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park Museum and Visitor Center—Open Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.
• Montgomery Parks Headquarters and Permits Offices—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
• Montgomery Parks Public Information and Customer Service Office—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
• Black Hill Boat and Lake Needwood Boat rentals—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
• Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center and Wheaton Indoor Tennis Center—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
• Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena--Closed 3, 4 and 5.   
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
• Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park—Closed Monday, Sept. 5. 
•  Indoor nature facilities buildings are closed on Monday, Sept. 5. Trails and outdoor nature play areas remain will open from sunrise to sunset. Visit calendar for schedule of outdoor programming.  
• Meadowside Nature Center—Building remains closed for renovations. 

Jan's Inside Jam

Issue #11

GPS
(Global Positioning System) 

What is GPS?

GPS is made up of three parts: satellites, ground stations, and receivers.

Satellites act like stars in constellations. Ground stations use radar to make sure they are actually where we think they are.

A receiver is constantly listening for a signal from these satellites. The receiver figures out how far away they are.

Once the receiver calculates its distance from four or more satellites, it knows exactly where you are. Presto! From miles up in space your location on the ground can be determined with incredible precision! So, now we know about GPS.

However, I want to tell you about Jan’s interpretation of GPS:

Grit, Perseverance, Sustainability.

When I look around Silver Spring and other places, I see businesses that have managed to maintain throughout the devastations of the pandemic. Those owners must have found it extremely hard, but they had courage and character or GRIT. Add in a large amount of keeping it going no matter how hard or impossible it was or PERSEVERANCE. Throw in the ability to keep going at it continuously over time no matter what or SUSTAINABILITY.

For an example of restauranteur GPS, I looked at The Mandalay Restaurant. It is a family-owned business that had been doing well at 930 Bonifant Street, downtown Silver Spring, for a number of years. However, due to the ramifications of the pandemic in mid-2021, they had to move to another location, but that did not work out. Fortunately, 930 Bonifant Street became a viable option again. Times had changed and they moved back in.

SILVER SPRING REGION OPPORTUNITIES

Updated: Montgomery County Provides Updates on Four ‘Streeteries’ for Fall

Note: An earlier version of this release erroneously referenced a survey from M-NCPPC in the Newell Street portion of this release. This version also clarifies language within the Newell Street Section.

Four “Streeteries” that were created in early 2020 by Montgomery County as a temporary concept to support businesses struggling from the economic impacts of COVID-19 and allow residents to gather freely on public streets closed to cars are now being reevaluated for fall as the pandemic continues to ease. The County’s Streeteries include Newell Street in Silver Spring, Price Avenue in Wheaton and Norfolk and Woodmont avenues in Bethesda.

The County has been working with communities around each location to establish a long-term plan for each space. The Streeteries will continue in some fashion, although some will change their concept.

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has managed the closing of streets to vehicles as part of the Streeteries plans. The closed streets have allowed residents and businesses to use public spaces for in-street activities such as biking, walking, outdoor dining and retail activity. Management of the spaces and collection of community feedback has been led by the County’s respective Regional Service Centers (RSCs).

“The Streeteries have provided a practical solution to a pandemic-related problem,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “They served as much-needed gathering spaces during the pandemic and provided a creative solution. Now as the situation has changed, we worked with the community in each area to decide how these spaces will continue to operate.  The Streeteries showed new possibilities and I would like to see how we might continue some form of these activities as we move beyond just trying to accommodate the activities within the constraints of the pandemic.”

Streeteries generally, have had hospitality businesses involved and allow for alcohol consumption in public areas that were off limits previously.

“The Streetery model proved an effective and popular option in some areas and licensed businesses successfully ensured responsible alcohol service,” said Alcohol Beverage Services Director Kathie Durbin. “Alcohol Beverage Services is committed to ongoing collaboration with license holders so that communities can continue to enjoy the Streeteries safely,”

Future plans for the four Streeteries for fall, as determined by input from their respective communities:

Newell Street, Silver Spring

Newell Street will reopen to cars after Labor Day. However, it will close to vehicular traffic for scheduled public events throughout the year.

Price Avenue, Wheaton

Price Avenue will remain in operation as a Streetery for the foreseeable future.

The Mid-County RSC has indicated that it is looking to expand the Streetery to be more inclusive of bicyclists and walkers. A community meeting regarding the Streetery is planned for late September or early October to gather additional community feedback on ways to better accommodate pedestrian traffic.

This fall, the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) has planned repairs to its facilities that run under Price Avenue. The work may require WSSC to temporarily close the Streetery for a few days.

Norfolk Avenue, Bethesda

Norfolk Avenue will remain in operation as a Streetery, and closed to vehicles, for the foreseeable future.

Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda

The Woodmont Avenue Streetery will be temporarily suspended, and partially reopened to traffic after Labor Day during construction of the long-planned and partially constructed Woodmont Avenue Cycle Track.  Construction is expected to commence after Labor Day.

The Bethesda-Chevy Chase RSC is circulating a survey to gather feedback from residents and businesses. Survey results will be used in developing long-term plans for the Streetery. The owner of the adjacent properties (Federal Realty Investment Trust) is planning a privately funded redesign to increase outdoor dining capacity. Long-term design decisions have not been made, and the County will continue to work with the community to keep the area as a hub for outdoor dining while potentially restoring traffic movement through the block.

The Streeteries were part of MCDOT’s Shared Streets program, which included smaller pockets designated for recreation during the pandemic and allowed businesses to use streetside parking spaces and sidewalks.

Many of those businesses have already returned to normal operations. Businesses that are still operating with COVID-19-related accommodations, without the Streetery designation, will need to have County permits after Labor Day to ensure accessibility requirements are met. Streeteries have accessibility requirements built into their designs.

“During the pandemic, we relaxed the permitting requirement on the use of tents and café spaces on sidewalks in support of businesses,” said Department of Permitting Services Director Mitra Pedoeem. “Although we will work with businesses after Labor Day, they will need to reach out to the Permitting Services Office if they have not yet secured tent and outdoor café permits to ensure they comply with accessibility requirements.”

Over the winter months, Streetery locations may be suspended if significant winter storm conditions occur.

"Streeteries have undeniably changed how we look at the public right of way,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “Working with the RSCs, Urban Partnerships and Parks—in the case of Newell Street—we have developed a process where the community determines the capacity of their local Streetery long-term. We are optimistic that these streets will continue to serve the public well.”  

For information on MCDOT programs and services visit montgomerycountymd.gov/mcdot, follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter.

Jesus House DC is all set for the annual "Hello Neighbor" Free Car Wash & Grocery Give-Away which will hold on:  

• Saturday, August 20th

• Saturday, August 27th

• Saturday, September 3rd

• Saturday, September 10th

Save the dates!  Make plans to come and participate as we work to serve you with a FREE Car Wash and Grocery. 

‘Launchpads’ Loaner Tablets for Children Are Now Available at Four Montgomery County Public Libraries

“Launchpads,” which are tablets designed specifically for children from preschool age through sixth grade, are now being loaned through a new program of Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL). The program will have four County libraries loaning the pre-loaded tablets that are only available through public libraries and do not require Wi-Fi or internet.

Launchpads are populated with carefully chosen content of various themes including educational apps, games, videos, stories and activities focusing on specific topics.

Launchpads will be available from the MCPL branches of Long Branch, Maggie Nightingale, Marilyn Praisner and White Oak. Customers can place holds on the Launchpads to have them transferred to their closest MCPL branch for pick up.

The content available is:

• “Early Literacy” for emerging readers.
• “Language Learning” for an introduction to languages and cultures.
• “Math” from fundamentals through elementary skills.
• “Pre-K Academy” to help children prepare for kindergarten.
• “Reading Academy” to help children with verbal, reading, comprehension and writing skills.
• “STEAM Academy” to help children become problem solvers and make connections between their everyday world and science, technology, engineering, art and math concepts

In addition to the benefits of the curated activities, using the tablets will help children learn, practice and improve their digital literacy skills—a key component of a 21st Century education.

Customers can borrow up to five Launchpads at a time, complete with charging cable.

Launchpads can be checked out with a library card for a three-week lending period. They can be returned to any branch in person or in the book drop. If there is not a waitlist, Launchpads can be renewed a maximum of three times.

For a complete listing and descriptions of all the Launchpads, and to check availability or place a hold, consult MCPL’s online catalog.

Montgomery County is the eighth county in Maryland to participate in the Launchpad program.

For more information about the program, contact Rachel Rappaport at rachel.rappaport@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station Open House

Saturday, September 3rd at 10am

Long Branch Festival, September 9th-10th

Crossroads Food Crawl, September 17th

Wonderful Wednesdays on El Golfo's Patio

Every Wednesday (except August 10th) through end of September

El Golfo is located at 8739 Flower Avenue

Polythene Band
Beatles Cover Band
Wednesday, August 31st
6pm-8pm

Montgomery Parks wants your help as we plan for the future, to ensure we provide the types of spaces and activities that meet your needs. We want to know how you recreate, and what makes a particular place special for you!

This survey will help us gather input for new park amenities (such as playgrounds, ball fields, basketball and tennis courts, gardens, skate parks, grills, etc.), new park program ideas, and to hear what your community considers a priority for the parks in the Long Branch area.

We have some exciting and needed renovations in progress or coming to several parks: #2 - Long Branch-Wayne Local Park, #5 - Flower Avenue Urban Park, and #6 - Long Branch-Garland Neighborhood Park. 

Now we need your input on several others that will have some improvements coming in the future: #3 -  Long Branch-Arliss Neighborhood Park, #4 -  Long Branch Local Park, #8 -  New Hampshire Estates Neighborhood Park, and #9 - Quebec Terrace Neighborhood Park.

For more information on the Long Branch Parks Initiate check out the website: MoCoParks.org/LBParks

¿Qué es la Iniciativa Long Branch Parks?

La Iniciativa de los parques del vecindario Long Branch es un plan que está llevando a cabo Montgomery Parks para echar un vistazo amplio a los parques de la comunidad de Long Branch, los senderos, los servicios y a los programas recreativos, para determinar qué es lo que hay que mejorar o añadir para que los parques puedan servir mejor a la comunidad que vive en el área de Long Branch.

¿Qué ocurre actualmente?

• El personal está evaluando el estado de los recursos de los parques existentes para determinar cuáles caminos, puentes y amenidades hay que mejorar.
• Montgomery Parks ha creado diseños para mejoras para Flower Avenue Urban Park, Long Branch-Wayne Local Park, y Long Branch-Garland Neighborhood Park. 

Participación de la comunidad:

Montgomery Parks desea contar con su ayuda a la hora de planificar el futuro para garantizar que podamos ofrecer los tipos de espacios y actividades que satisfagan sus necesidades. Queremos saber qué es lo que hace que un lugar concreto sea especial para usted. El personal se reunirá con la comunidad en varios eventos y animará a la comunidad a realizar una encuesta con el fin de recabar su opinión sobre los nuevos servicios de los parques (como zonas de juego, campos de pelota, canchas de baloncesto y tenis, jardines, parques de patinaje, parrillas, etc.), nuevos programas de reactivación de parques y para escuchar lo que la comunidad considera prioritario para las mejoras de Long Branch-Arliss Neighborhood Park), Long Branch Local Park, New Hampshire Estates Neighborhood Park, y Quebec Terrace Neighborhood Park.

We Want Your Input! ¡Queremos su opinión!

Share your thoughts and ideas by taking our brief online survey. Comments are being accepted until September 30, 2022.

Por favor, comparta sus opiniones e ideas a través de nuestra breve encuesta en línea. Se aceptan comentarios hasta el 30 de septiembre de 2022.

2022 Veterans Plaza Festival Guide!

English Conversation Club at the Library

The English Conversation Club invites non-native English speakers to join us to practice speaking and listening with a friendly group from many countries. The event is free and no registration is required.

Please join us every Wednesday, from 10:30 until 12, in conference room 1 on the third floor of the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library.  And tell your friends.

Further information is available at the library's webpage here: https://mcpl.libnet.info/event/6854542

Club Español de Conversación: English/Spanish Language Exchange

Intercambio Inglés/Español 

Teen Writer's Club

2022 Takoma Park Street Festival Application is OPEN

Neighborhood Event Matching Fund

COUNTY WIDE OPPORTUNITIES

Montgomery Parks Extends Open Parkways for Labor Day Weekend, Announces Operating Hours

 Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, announces Labor Day operating hours, including extending its Open Parkways through Tuesday, September 6, at 7 a.m. for the holiday weekend.      

Open Parkways Schedule  

The Open Parkways schedule will be extended for the holiday until 7 a.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022.  

Portions of Sligo Creek Parkway and Beach Drive will be open to pedestrians and bicyclists for exercise and recreation. 

Open to pedestrians and bicyclists (closed to motor vehicles) from Friday, September 2, at 9 a.m., to Tuesday, September 6, at 7 a.m.  

• Sligo Creek Parkway   

• Old Carroll Avenue to Piney Branch Road (1.1 miles)     
• Forest Glen Road to University Boulevard West (1.5 miles)     

• Beach Drive from Connecticut Avenue to Knowles Avenue (2.7 miles)      
  
  The Open Parkways program on Little Falls Parkway is suspended while a traffic study is underway for that portion of the parkway.  
  
  Labor Day Marks the Final Weekend to Enjoy Seasonal Amenities   

• The South Germantown SplashPark & Mini-Golf is open Saturday, September 3, through Monday, September 5, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.   

• Lake Needwood Boat rentals  are open Saturday, September 3, and Sunday, September 4, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

• Black Hill Boat Rentals are open Saturday, September 3 through Monday, September 5, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.   
  
  Additional facilities open during the holiday weekend include:  

• Parks, trails, gardens, playgrounds, dog parks, skate parks, outdoor exercise stations, and outdoor tennis/pickleball and basketball courts* are open daily, sunrise to sunset. (*Select outdoor courts are available for rental.)   
• The inline hockey rink at Ridge Road Recreational Park and street hockey/futsal rink at  Dewey Local Park may be permitted, or are available first come, first served, if not reserved.   
• Picnic shelters and campfire rings are available for rental at several locations.     
• Little Bennett Campground     
• Cabin John Miniature Train and Wheaton Miniature Train and Carousel  Saturday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  
• Wheaton Indoor Tennis Center, Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.  
• Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center, Friday through Sunday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.  
• South Germantown Driving Range    
• Brookside Gardens grounds open daily sunrise-sunset, Visitor Center open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Gift Shop open daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Conservatory open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.    
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  
• Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park Museum & Visitor Center, Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.  
  
  The following facilities will be CLOSED on Labor Day, Monday, September 5, 2022.    

• Montgomery Parks Headquarters and Permits Offices   
• Montgomery Parks Public Information and Customer Service Office   

• Black Hill Boat and Lake Needwood Boat rentals 
• Pauline Betz Addie Tennis Center and Wheaton Indoor Tennis Center 
• Cabin John Ice Rink and Wheaton Ice Arena  (also closed September 3 and 4)    
• Josiah Henson Museum and Park  
• Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park  
• Indoor nature facilities buildings are closed, trails and outdoor nature play areas remain open from sunrise to sunset. Visit calendar for schedule of outdoor programming.    
• Meadowside Nature Center building remains closed for renovations.  
  
  Need a jump-start on your weekend planning?  Visit the Parks’ Picks blog for a weekly list of fun things to do and see in Montgomery Parks.  

Montgomery County to Hold Ceremony of Remembrance to Commemorate International Overdose Awareness Day on Thursday, Sept. 1, and Will Launch 'Montgomery Goes Purple'

Classes for Adults to Learn Basic Bicycle Skills and Training Will Be Available in September, October and November

Montgomery County Offers ‘Food Recovery Mini-Grants Program’ to Community Organizations

Montgomery County officials announced today that community organizations involved in food recovery and food security may apply for mini-grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 to improve capacity and infrastructure of the local food recovery system. The grants also will be available for innovative and collaborative approaches to reducing food insecurity. 

Organizations can apply independently or in collaboration with other groups. This mini-grant program will strengthen current efforts of the Montgomery County Community Food Rescue (CFR), a food recovery network of Manna Food Center. Applications are due by 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 9.

A pre-application technical assistance conference will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 22. More information and the online application are available online.

“Montgomery County is at its best when neighbors help neighbors at a grassroots community level,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “These grants will help to directly impact people’s lives. I encourage any eligible organization to apply and help us reduce hunger and food waste in our County.”

Grant applications will be reviewed by an independent committee organized by the Montgomery County Food Council. Funding for the grant program will be provided by the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), with support from the Greater Washington Community Foundation’s Food for Montgomery Fund. 

Questions about the application process can be directed to Diana Tato-Niktash, program manager for the Food Security Plan at DHHS, by calling 240-777-3404 or emailing diana.tato-niktash@montgomerycountymd.gov.

El Condado de Montgomery ofrece a organizaciones comunitarias el ‘Programa de Pequeñas Subvenciones de Recuperación de Alimentos’

Los funcionarios del condado de Montgomery anunciaron hoy que las organizaciones comunitarias involucradas en la recuperación de alimentos y la seguridad alimentaria pueden solicitar mini-subvenciones que van desde $2.000 a $10.000 para mejorar la capacidad y la infraestructura del sistema local de recuperación de alimentos. Las subvenciones también estarán disponibles para enfoques innovadores y colaborativos para reducir la inseguridad alimentaria.

Las organizaciones pueden postularse de forma independiente o en colaboración con otros grupos. Este programa de mini-subvención fortalecerá los esfuerzos actuales del Rescate de Alimentos de la Comunidad del Condado de Montgomery (CFR, por sus siglas en inglés), una red de recuperación de alimentos del Centro de Alimentos Manna. Las solicitudes deben presentarse antes de las 7:00 p.m. el viernes 9 de septiembre.

Se llevará a cabo una conferencia de asistencia técnica previa a la solicitud el miércoles 22 de agosto de 10:30 a.m. a 11:30 a.m. Más información y la solicitud electrónica están disponibles.

“El condado de Montgomery está en su mejor momento cuando los vecinos ayudan a los vecinos a nivel comunitario,” dijo el Ejecutivo del Condado Marc Elrich. “Estas subvenciones ayudarán a impactar directamente la vida de las personas. Animo a cualquier organización elegible a solicitar la asistencia y ayudarnos a reducir el hambre y el desperdicio de alimentos en nuestro condado.”

Las solicitudes de subvenciones serán revisadas por un comité independiente organizado por el Concejo de Alimentos del Condado de Montgomery. Los fondos para el programa de subvenciones serán proporcionados por el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos del Condado de Montgomery (DHHS, por sus siglas en inglés), con el apoyo del Fondo de Alimentos para Montgomery de la Greater Washington Community Foundation.

Las preguntas sobre el proceso de solicitud se pueden dirigir a Diana Tato-Niktash, gerente del programa del Plan de Seguridad Alimentaria en DHHS, llamando al 240-777-3404 o enviando un correo electrónico a diana.tato-niktash@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Free immigration consults for immigrant children and families in Wheaton, MD.

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Respiratory symptoms (such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough).
• A rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus, but could also be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face or mouth.
  • The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing.
  • The rash can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy.

• Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms. Others only experience a rash.
• Most people with monkeypox will get a rash.
• Some people have developed a rash before (or without) other symptoms.

Montgomery County Reopens Fourth Phase of COVID-19 Rent Relief Program; Previously Incomplete and New Applications Will Be Accepted

Beginning today, the fourth phase of the COVID-19 rent relief will reopen for applications from eligible Montgomery County renters who either did not fully complete their previously submitted application or want to submit a new application for review. The previous deadline was June 30.  The program provides financial assistance for tenants that have experienced a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program is administered by the County’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).

“I am pleased to announce the reopening of the rental relief program. We have additional funds to distribute, and we know that the need for this assistance has not gone away,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “The impact of this pandemic will be with us for quite some time, so I urge eligible residents who are in need to not delay and apply today.”

The rent relief program launched in May 2020 and as of July 24, has distributed $79.1 million in financial assistance.  Funding for the fourth phase was provided by U.S. Treasury Emergency Rental Assistance funds in direct allocations to the County and as a sub-grantee to the State of Maryland.

Based on the number of applications received to-date for the fourth phase, it is anticipated that there will be additional funds within the program to support eligible residents. Applications will continue to be processed based on priority factors including income, eviction risk, and geographic location.

Visit www.mc311.com/rentrelief to apply online or log-in to an existing account to continue a previously started application. 

If someone previously registered to set up an online account or started an application before the prior deadline, they can log into their  account to continue an application. There is no need to submit another application.  Please note only submitted applications will be reviewed for assistance. 

Residents who have already applied can check the status of their application through the online portal.  DHHS continues to process cases daily. Once a case is assigned, applicants will hear from an assigned case worker via email, mail, or telephone.

An email address is needed to complete an application.  If someone does not have an email address, we stronly encourage them to set one up or connect with  the property manager/landlord who can apply on their behalf. People in households without internet access or who need assistance completing the application should call 311 (240-777-0311) to get connected with County staff or partners for assistance in completing an application.

Renters facing an immediate loss of housing should call 311 Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to be connected with DHHS’ Housing Stabilization Services. For more answers to frequently asked questions about the rent relief program, visit www.mc311.com/rentrelief.

El Condado de Montgomery Reabre la Cuarta Fase del Programa de Alivio de Renta por COVID-19; Se aceptarán solicitudes nuevas y previamente incompletas

A partir de hoy, la cuarta fase del alivio de alquiler por COVID-19 se reabrirá para las solicitudes de inquilinos elegibles del Condado de Montgomery que no llenaron completamente su solicitud presentada anteriormente o que buscan presentar una nueva solicitud para su revisión. La fecha límite anterior era el 30 de junio. El programa brinda asistencia financiera a los inquilinos que han experimentado dificultades financieras debido a la pandemia de COVID-19. El programa es administrado por el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos del Condado (DHHS, por sus siglas en inglés).

“Me complace anunciar la reapertura del programa de alivio de alquiler. Tenemos fondos adicionales para distribuir y sabemos que la necesidad de esta asistencia no ha desaparecido”, dijo el Ejecutivo del Condado de Montgomery, Marc Elrich. “El impacto de esta pandemia estará con nosotros durante bastante tiempo, por lo que insto a los residentes elegibles que lo necesiten a que no se demoren y presenten su solicitud hoy”.

El programa de alivio de alquileres lanzado en mayo de 2020 y hasta el 24 de julio ha distribuido $79.1 millones en asistencia financiera. El financiamiento para la cuarta fase fue proporcionado por los fondos de Asistencia de Alquiler de Emergencia del Departamento del Tesoro de los EE. UU. en asignaciones directas al Condado y como sub-beneficiario del Estado de Maryland.

Según la cantidad de solicitudes recibidas hasta la fecha para la cuarta fase, se anticipa que habrá fondos adicionales dentro del programa para apoyar a los residentes elegibles. Las solicitudes continuarán procesándose en función de factores de prioridad, incluidos los ingresos, el riesgo de desalojo y la ubicación geográfica.

Visite www.mc311.com/rentrelief para presentar su solicitud electrónicamente o inicie sesión en una cuenta existente para continuar con una solicitud iniciada previamente. Si alguien ya ha solicitado, no vuelva a aplicar.

Si alguien que se registró previamente creó una cuenta electrónica o inició una solicitud antes de la fecha límite anterior, puede iniciar sesión en su cuenta para continuar con la solicitud. No es necesario presentar otra solicitud. Tenga en cuenta que solo las solicitudes enviadas serán revisadas para recibir asistencia.

Los residentes que ya hayan solicitado pueden consultar el estado de la solicitud a través del portal electrónico. DHHS continúa procesando casos diariamente. Una vez que se asigna un caso, los solicitantes se comunicarán con un asistente social asignado por correo electrónico, correo postal o teléfono.

Se necesita una dirección de correo electrónico para completar la solicitud. Si alguien no tiene una dirección de correo electrónico, le recomendamos que establezca una o que se conecte con el administrador de la propiedad/propietario que pueda presentar la solicitud en su nombre. Las personas en hogares sin acceso a Internet o que necesitan ayuda para completar la solicitud deben llamar al 311 (240-777-0311) para conectarse con el personal del condado o socios para obtener ayuda para completar una solicitud.

Los inquilinos que enfrentan una pérdida inmediata de vivienda deben llamar al 311 de lunes a viernes de 7:00 a.m. a 7:00 p.m.  para ser conectados con los Servicios de Estabilización de Vivienda del DHHS. Para obtener más respuestas a las preguntas frecuentes sobre el programa de alivio del alquiler, visite www.mc311.com/rentrelief.

Let’s talk about #walkinghere in Montgomery County

A comfortable and convenient walking experience is a fundamental right for Montgomery County residents, employees, and visitors—and, whether walking or rolling, inclusivity and safety are our top priorities.

After years of work to analyze data and develop recommendations, the Pedestrian Master Plan will make Montgomery County safer, more navigable, and more comfortable for pedestrians of all ages and abilities. With each step, this plan aims to set in motion the transformative change Montgomery County pedestrians need.

The plan’s policy, design, and programming recommendations are now available for review, we want to hear from you about what’s great and what still needs work.

Visit montgomeryplanning.org/walkinghere to learn more!

MCPL’s Summer Reading Challenge! offers kids and teens a chance to fill their summer with great books and fun activities. This year, participants will help save the Chesapeake Bay (PDF). By completing missions, participants can help MCPL and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation preserve the Chesapeake Bay watershed, clean up the Chesapeake Bay, and provide healthy habitats for Chesapeake Bay animals.

Join in by reading books, completing creative learning activities, and attending library programs all summer long. You'll earn free books, badges, and Nationals tickets, plus entries for exciting raffles!

Participating is easy:

• Sign up (or log in) online starting June 15.
• Earn online badges to complete the program.
• (Optional) Print an Early Literacy or Elementary School Age game board at home or pick one up at your local library.
• Take our survey in English or Spanish when you've finished the program. Your voice counts!

COVID-19 News from Montgomery County 

• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
• Wear a well-fitting face covering indoors in public, regardless of vaccination status.
• Get tested if you have symptoms or are exposed.

Passengers using Montgomery County’s Ride On buses are no longer required to wear a mask but are strongly recommended to voluntarily wear them.  The change to the County’s masking policy comes after the announcement on April 18 that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) decided to suspend enforcement of a mask mandate on all modes of public transportation.  TSA’s decision came after a Federal judge’s ruling that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s mask mandate was unconstitutional. Ride On bus operators will no longer be required to wear a mask because of this change. 

“We think this is a bad decision by a Trump judge, who has no expertise in public health, to over-rule our nation’s public health experts,” said County Executive Marc Elrich.  “Not only will this increase risk during the current surge, but it undermines potential tools available for public health officials for future surges or future diseases.  As we join the region and comply with this legal decision, we are going to continue to monitor our transmission rates and legal options regarding masking.  We highly encourage all residents to wear masks on our buses, as well as in crowded indoor areas.  And, as we currently see our COVID rates increase, it is imperative that everyone stays up to date on their vaccinations.” 

The County’s decision to lift the mask mandate on public transportation was done to provide passengers and operators with consistency with WMATA (Metro) and other regional transportation systems.  WMATA announced that it was lifting the mask mandate throughout its transportations system. County health officials continue to strongly recommend masking, particularly for those riders who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised or have chronic diseases that put them at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19. 

“To provide consistency within the region, masks will not be required on County buses at this time,” said County Department of Transportation Director Chris Conklin. “However, I encourage the continued use of masks to protect yourself and others as there are members of our community who remain vulnerable to serious illness from COVID-19.  Our operators will continue to provide masks to riders who need them.” 

Ride On continues to offer free fares to all riders until at least July 2, 2022. 

For more information on COVID-19 testing and vaccination, visit the County’s COVID-19 website.  For more information about Ride On, visit their website. 

For the most up-to-date service information, riders should follow @RideOnMCT on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram. Subscribe to receive email alerts at montgomerycountymd.gov/govdelivery or text MONTGOMERY RIDEON to 468311 to receive text alerts. 

 For information on MCDOT programs, follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, visit the MCDOT website, and subscribe to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter.

Entra en Vigor de Inmediato: El uso de mascarillas o cobertura facial es ahora opcional en los autobuses Ride On del Condado de Montgomery

Los pasajeros que utilizan los autobuses Ride On del Condado de Montgomery ya no están obligados a usar una mascarilla, pero se recomienda enfáticamente que la usen voluntariamente. El cambio en la política de mascarillas del condado se produce después del anuncio el 18 de abril de que la Administración de Seguridad del Transporte (TSA, por sus siglas en inglés) decidió suspender la aplicación del mandato de mascarillas en todos los modos de transporte público. La decisión de la TSA se produjo después de que un juez federal dictaminara que el mandato de máscara de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades era inconstitucional. Debido a este cambio, ya no se requerirá que los operadores de autobuses de Ride On usen una mascarilla.

“Creemos que esta es una mala decisión de un juez de Trump, que no tiene experiencia en salud pública, de invalidar a los expertos en salud pública de nuestra nación," dijo el Ejecutivo del Condado Marc Elrich. “Esto no solo aumentará el riesgo durante el aumento actual, sino que socava las herramientas potenciales disponibles para los funcionarios de salud pública para futuros auges repentinos o futuras enfermedades. A medida que nos unamos a la región y cumplamos con esta decisión legal, continuaremos monitoreando nuestras tasas de transmisión y opciones legales con respecto al enmascaramiento. Recomendamos encarecidamente a todos los residentes que usen mascarillas en nuestros autobuses, así como en áreas interiores con muchas personas. Y, como actualmente vemos que nuestras tasas de COVID aumentan, es imperativo que todos se mantengan al día con sus vacunas."

La decisión del condado de levantar el mandato de uso de mascarillas en el transporte público se tomó para brindarles a los pasajeros y operadores consistencia con WMATA (Metro) y otros sistemas de transporte regionales. WMATA anunció que estaba levantando el mandato de uso de mascarillas en todo su sistema de transporte. Los funcionarios de salud del condado continúan recomendando enfáticamente el uso de cobertura facial, particularmente para aquellos pasajeros que no están vacunados, los que están inmunocomprometidos o tienen enfermedades crónicas que los ponen en mayor riesgo de contraer una enfermedad grave por COVID-19.

“Para brindar consistencia dentro de la región, no se requerirán mascarillas en los autobuses del condado en este momento," dijo el Director del Departamento de Transporte del Condado, Chris Conklin. “Sin embargo, recomiendo el uso continuo de mascarillas para protegerse a sí mismo y a los demás, ya que hay miembros de nuestra comunidad que siguen siendo vulnerables a enfermedades graves por COVID-19. Nuestros operadores continuarán proporcionando mascarillas a los pasajeros que las necesiten."

Ride On continúa ofreciendo tarifas gratuitas a todos los pasajeros hasta al menos el 2 de julio de 2022.

Para obtener más información sobre pruebas y vacunación de COVID-19, visite el sitio web COVID-19 del condado. Para obtener información adicional sobre Ride On, visite su sitio web.

Financial Assistance for Homeowners Impacted by COVID 

The Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund is now open to provide grants or loans for delinquent mortgage payments, past due association fees, past due real estate taxes, home repairs, and energy efficiency improvements. Eligibility is based on income and COVID impact; owner occupancy is required. To learn more, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/homeowners 

For free assistance in understanding and applying for funds, Montgomery County homeowners should contact one of these approved housing counseling agencies: 

·         Housing Initiative Partnership, Inc.: 301-916-5946 

·         Latino Economic Development Center: 202-540-7401 

·         First Home Alliance: 877-250-9025 

Housing counselors will help homeowners in understanding additional relief options based on their specific circumstances and can assist in finding a solution that works best for each homeowner. The application process is available at the Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund program. 

Montgomery County Press Releases
for the latest news

PRESS RELEASE CENTERS

County Executive

County Council

MCPS

M-NCPPC

State Government

If you live in Takoma Park, you can also visit the City's link:
https://takomaparkmd.gov/news/information-and-resources-you-can-use/
Si vives en Takoma Park, también puedes visitar el enlace de la Ciudad

QUESTIONS? CALL 311

SILVER SPRING REGIONAL CENTER
Silver Spring Civic Building
One Veterans Plaza
Silver Spring, MD  20910
240-777-5301

Comments, Ideas, Items to Add and/or Suggestions?  E-mail us!

See you around Silver Spring!