A Message from County Executive Marc Elrich
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County Executive Marc Elrich this week expresses confidence in preparations being made by Montgomery County Public Schools as the start of a new school year approaches. The Triple-A ratings again awarded to Montgomery County by the three major financial rating institutions solidify his belief in the strong fiscal management policies the County has followed. He is excited by the opening of a new Marriott-branded hotel in Downtown Bethesda. The County Executive encourages business owners to apply for a new round of rent relief to help their impacted situations. And for those who have not yet been to the County Agricultural Fair, he says there are still a couple of additional days of fun and adventures to experience.
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Health Officials to Host First in a Series of Virtual Town Halls on Monkeypox; Monday, Aug. 22, Meeting to Focus on LGBTQ+ Community
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Montgomery County health officials, in partnership with County Council Vice President Evan Glass, will host a virtual town hall meeting from 6-7:30 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 22. The meeting, the first in a series planned by the County, will focus on Monkeypox and the LGBTQ+ community.
Panelists in the town hall will include Acting County Health Officer James Bridgers; Council Vice President Glass; the County’s LGBTQ+ Community Liaison Amena Johnson; infectious disease specialist Jessica Rosen, a physician with the County’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS); and DHHS Director Raymond Crowel.
The panelists will provide an update on the current Monkeypox situation in Montgomery County and Maryland, as well as share information on the County’s monkeypox vaccine program and answer questions about prevention and treatment.
The virtual town hall will be hosted on Zoom and will be streamed live on the County’s Facebook page. It also will be simulcast on County Cable Montgomery (CCM)--Comcast and RCN Channel 6 and HD 996 and 1056, respectively—and Channel 30 on Verizon. A recording of the event will be posted on the County’s Monkeypox website following the town hall.
Registration for the Zoom meeting is required. Questions can be submitted anonymously prior to the meeting. There also will be an opportunity to ask questions virtually at the meeting.
Register for the meeting at https://bit.ly/3QkxfvS.
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Los funcionarios de salud del Condado de Montgomery serán anfitriones de la primera serie de foros públicos virtuales sobre la viruela del mono el lunes 22 de agosto con un enfoque en la comunidad LGBTQ+
Los funcionarios de salud del condado de Montgomery, en asociación con el vicepresidente del concejo del condado, Evan Glass, organizarán una reunión comunitaria virtual de 6:00 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. el lunes 22 de agosto. La reunión, la primera de una serie planificada por el condado, se centrará en la viruela del mono y la comunidad LGBTQ+.
Los panelistas incluirán al Oficial de Salud Interino del Condado, James Bridgers; el Vicepresidente del Concejo Glass; Amena Johnson, Enlace Comunitario LGBTQ+ del Condado; la especialista en enfermedades infecciosas Jessica Rosen, médica del Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos del Condado (DHHS); y el Director del DHHS, Raymond Crowel.
Los panelistas brindarán una actualización sobre la situación actual de la viruela del mono en el condado de Montgomery y Maryland, además de compartir información sobre el programa de vacunación contra la viruela del mono del condado y responder preguntas sobre la prevención y el tratamiento.
El encuentro virtual se realizará mediante la plataforma digital Zoom y se transmitirá en vivo en la página de Facebook del condado. También se transmitirá simultáneamente en on County Cable Montgomery (CCM)--Comcast and RCN canales 6 y HD 996 y 1056, respectivamente, y por el canal 30 en Verizon. Se publicará una grabación del evento en el sitio web de la viruela del mono del condado después de la reunión.
Es necesario inscribirse para participar en la reunión de Zoom. Las preguntas se pueden enviar de forma anónima antes del encuentro y también habrá la oportunidad de hacer preguntas durante la reunión virtual
Inscríbase para participar utilizando este enlace https://bit.ly/3QkxfvS.
Para obtener información adicional, visite el sitio web sobre la viruela del mono del condado o envíe un correo electrónico a hhsmail@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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Jan's Inside Jam
Issue #11
GPS
(Global Positioning System)
Just what is GPS? I have seen it in use practically every time a cab, an Uber, or Metro Access picked me up. However, I never quite understood what it is or how it works. I just thought it was a phenomenal invention. So, I decided to lay some research on it. I learned a few things, which I will quickly share with you.
What is GPS?
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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.
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Mandalay has started doing well again because they have great Burmese cuisine. In fact, this business has received critical acclaim from the Washington Post, the Washingtonian, the Baltimore Sun, and WAMU. Mandalay has been named ten times by Washingtonian magazine as one of Washington DC's 100 "Best Bargains."
On Saturday, August 13, Mandalay had its ribbon cutting to celebrate its reopening. Rob Goldman, President of Montgomery Housing Partnership, and neighbors of the Mandalay came out to welcome the Mandalay back to the neighborhood.
Yes, this is what Jan’s GPS looks and feels like. Please remember those businesses who have been there for us throughout the bad pandemic times. Help them as they move back into the good pre-pandemic times. It was not easy for them, but they are still here for us.
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Editors note: Check out this video of Jan and other representatives of Silver Spring at the re-opening!
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SILVER SPRING REGION OPPORTUNITIES
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Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee Openings
Apply today!
Elrich Seeks Applicants for Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee
County Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill four vacancies on the Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee for one representative of an optional method developer and three representatives of small businesses that employ fewer than 25 employees.
The 11-member Committee provides information and advice to the County government and the Director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center regarding promotions, maintenance, service levels, and budgetary guidance for the downtown Silver Spring Urban District.
Members serve three-year terms without compensation, but are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for in-person meetings attended. The Board currently meets virtually by video- and teleconference the third Thursday afternoon of every month at 3:30 PM. When in-person meetings resume in the future, the Board will meet in Silver Spring.
County Executive Marc Elrich 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.
You may access information regarding boards, committees, and commissions, including application instructions here. Please carefully read application instructions on that page. Then select View and Apply for Vacancies for all currently posted notices.
Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following:
The deadline for application is August 22, 2022.
Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested.
Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, genders, geography, disabilities, ethnicities, and ages are encouraged to apply. Members of County boards, committees, and commissions may not serve on more than one such group at a time. The County Executive’s appointments are generally subject to confirmation by the County Council. Members must complete training on the Maryland Open Meetings Act and basic parliamentary procedure. Members are eligible for reimbursement for travel and dependent care for in-person meetings attended. County boards, committees, and commissions may meet virtually by video and/or teleconference.
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Input Sought for Proposed New Park in Downtown Silver Spring
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Residents are invited by Montgomery Parks to provide input for the first phase of a new, one-acre park in Downtown Silver Spring. South Silver Spring Park, which will be located at 1110 East-West Highway (the former site of National Tire and Battery), will provide multiple spaces for active recreation, play and socializing. The park’s first phase is expected to open in 2023.
Montgomery Parks purchased the site of the park at the end of 2021 with the goal of demolishing the existing building and developing the park.
In addition to providing spaces for fun and recreation, the park will connect nearby public spaces in Downtown Silver Spring districts by linking East-West Highway and Kennett Street. The park will connect to the Green Loop, a pedestrian and bicyclist-friendly path proposed in the Silver Spring Downtown and Adjacent Communities Plan that will connect neighborhoods and destinations.
To provide input on the park’s proposed amenities, go to https://www.opentownhall.com/portals/260/Issue_12107.
For more information on this project, visit MoCoParks.org/SSSP.
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Long Branch Festival, September 9th-10th
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*FREE AND OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY*
The Long Branch Festival is a collaborative partnership of the Long Branch Business League, Montgomery Housing Partnership, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, and the Department of Housing and Community Development, with substantial support from Montgomery Parks and Purple Line Transit Partners.
The purpose of the Long Branch Festival is to celebrate the dynamic neighborhood, businesses and culture of Long Branch. Our goal is to bring communities together and celebrate our diversity, expand understanding of the crucial role of shared public spaces and highlight the value of locally-owned stores.
An additional goal is to help our community reimagine a future that includes both the current community and future changes.
The festival is also an experiment in placemaking — the process of adding small interventions to the built environment to make areas feel more walkable, accessible, and friendly. We want community members to start seeing the places they already use in a different light: maybe there are ways to increase support to local business by adding more seating in a certain area, or create more spaces for people to gather.
One of the several inspirations for this event came from a Montgomery Planning initiative in White Flint. We also want to reimagine the look and feel of Long Branch with a people-centered approach to the planning, design and management of public spaces while supporting the people and businesses who have called Long Branch home for many years.
8746 Flower Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Friday 6-9pm Saturday 11am - 9pm
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Crossroads Food Crawl, September 17th
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Join the Takoma Langley Crossroads Development Authority for a food crawl along University Boulevard in Maryland's International Corridor.
Experience the diverse flavor offerings of the Crossroads. Crossroads restaurants have paired up to offer some of the best food our area has to offer! Tickets are $25 and entitle you to redeem a specific food or drink offering at each stop along the route.
Visitors can enjoy the tour at their own pace and order.
Purchase Tickets Here
Participating Restaurants:
Kobe Japan Hibachi & Sushi- 1 Kids Teriyaki Chicken or 1 Regular Roll (exclusions apply)
Tijuana's Mexican Grill- 1 margarita or 1 fresco de ensalada de fruta
El Campeon Chicken- 1/4 chicken (dark or white)
El Marinero- Chicken Tamal AND Pastelito (chicken or beef)
Caribbean Palace- Beef Patty or Pholourie or Doubles
Tony's Villa- 1 slice of pizza (cheese or pepperoni) and a side of fries
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Silver Spring Town Center Presents
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Wonderful Wednesdays on El Golfo's Patio
Every Wednesday (except August 10th) through end of September
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El Golfo is located at 8739 Flower Avenue
DC Mudd
Blues
Wednesday, August 24th
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Join us August 24th for a Wonderful Wednesdays evening with DC Mudd! This ensemble boasts many accolades including:
International Blues Challenge, Memphis TN quarter-finalists
Winner DC Blues Society Battle of the Bands
WAMMIE nominated Best Blues/Traditional R&B Duo/Group
DC Mudd plays righteous blues and American roots music.
Inspired by the music of Muddy Waters, DC Mudd plays an authentic brand of Chicago-style blues. This is a veteran group of musicians that pour their hearts and soul into their sound, always striving to find the essence of the music that moved America, and finding ways to bring some of that magic to today’s audiences.
DC Mudd has performed at the Tinner Hill Blues Festival, DC Blues Festival, the College Park Blues Festival, the Silver Spring Blues Festival, the Greenbelt Blues Festival, and the Washington Folk Festival.
DC Mudd is:
David Oziel: vocals, guitar
David Jackson: vocals, bass
Howard Moss: harmonica
John Potts: guitar
Brendan Bailes: drums
https://www.reverbnation.com/dcmudd
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The Long Branch Parks Initiative Survey
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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
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¿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?
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.
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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.
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2022 Veterans Plaza Festival Guide!
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Silver Spring Town Center Inc Summer 2022 Schedule
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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/6854541
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Club Español de Conversación: English/Spanish Language Exchange
The former Club Español has returned in person every Thursday from 5:30pm – 6:30, in Room 2, at the Brigadier General Charles E. Mcgee Library, 900 Wayne Avenue in downtown Silver Spring with a new name and purpose. The new English/Spanish Language Exchange welcomes English and native Spanish speakers. The weekly sessions will run like spontaneous meet ups, where participants learn from one another. Those gathered will divide into mixed pairs or trios, with English and Spanish speakers in each conversation group. For more information contact Abdulai Koroma at the library (240) 773-9420.
Intercambio Inglés/Español
El Club Español ha regresado cada jueves de 5:30pm a 6:30 en la Biblioteca Brigadier General Charles E. Mcgee, 900 Wayne Avenue en el centro de Silver Spring con un nuevo nombre y propósito. El nuevo formato será un intercambio de inglés y español y dará la bienvenida a tanto a hablantes natives de inglés y español. Las sesiones semanales se desarrollarán como encuentros espontáneos, done los participantes aprenden uno del otro. Los participantes se dividirán en parejas mixtas o tríos con al menos de un hablante native de inglés y español en cada grupo de conversacion. Los hablantes nativos ayudarán al estudiante de un segundo idioma con la gramática y el vocabulario en la discusión del tema del día. Para más información, comuníquese con Abdulai Koroma en la biblioteca (240) 773-9420.
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Bishop & Beers Weekly Chess Club
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Join us for casual and friendly chess play and great craft beer in downtown Silver Spring every Tuesday from 6:00pm - 8:30pm at Silver Branch Brewing Company at 8401 Colesville Rd #150, Silver Spring, MD (Map). Whether you're an experienced player or new to the game, all are welcome. There is no fee to play chess.
We'll have plenty of chess sets (no need to bring your own), as well as some clocks for those that want to play blitz or rapid chess, and your host will be an experienced U.S. Chess Center chess instructor.
The U.S. Chess Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with the mission of promoting self-confidence, social skills, and academic success for all. We are the most experienced chess-teaching organization in the country. Since 1992, we have taught the game to almost 40,000 schoolchildren representing more than 150 schools in the National Capital Area. We also offer Online Adult Classes to help adults in the novice ranges advance to play a confident game of chess, learn more at: https://chessctr.org/classes/#adult
Register Here: https://register.chessctr.org/a/bishopsbeers-silverbranch
WHAT: Bishops + Beers @ Silver Branch Brewing Co. (Casual and friendly chess)
WHEN: Every Tuesday, next event July 12th
WHERE: Silver Branch Brewing Company in downtown Silver Spring, MD (8401 Colesville Rd #150, Silver Spring, MD).
MORE INFORMATION: Contact the U.S. Chess Center at 202-857-4922 or admin@chessctr.org
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Harvest Moon Festival Sunday, September 25th
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2022 Takoma Park Street Festival Application is OPEN
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Join Us!
The 41st annual Takoma Park Street Festival will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2022 on Carroll Avenue in Takoma Park, MD. Each year, we welcome thousands of visitors during this day long event filled with great vendors, food and live music! We invite you to join us!
Vendors
Application is open now. We are looking for artists, community groups, food vendors, small and large companies and Takoma businesses (see definitions on our website.)
New Layout
In 2021, we adopted a new layout due to to the pandemic and it worked well - not only from a health and safety standpoint, but from a vendor success perspective. Vendors reported lots of visitors and great sales! We will use the same layout in 2022: booth spaces will be on one side of the street only of Carroll Avenue and run from Eastern Avenue, NW to Philadelphia Avenue.
Apply Early
With less spaces available, the event will sell out fast. We will begin notifying vendors in April and hope to have the festival participants finalized by June.
See 2022 vendor rates below and check our website for more info!
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Neighborhood Event Matching Fund
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Click the flyer above for more information and a link to the application!
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COUNTY WIDE OPPORTUNITIES
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County Executive Elrich, Council President Albornoz Announce Montgomery’s Continued ‘Triple-A’ Bond Rating and Status Among Nation’s Best for Fiscal
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Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Gabe Albornoz have announced that the County has maintained its “Triple-A” bond rating for 2022 from the three major Wall Street bond rating agencies. The County continued its status as a top-rated issuer of municipal securities, with the highest credit rating possible for a local government.
The rating is significant as the County continues to rebound from the impact of the COVID-19 health crisis. This was accomplished as the County met its longstanding fund balance reserve target of 10 percent.
Moody’s Investors Service, Inc., Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch Ratings all affirmed the Triple-A rating—the highest achievable—for the County. Montgomery County has earned Triple-A ratings from Moody's Investors Service, Inc. every year since 1973 (50 consecutive years); from Standard & Poor’s every year since 1976 (47 consecutive years) and from Fitch every year since 1991 (32 consecutive years).
All three rating agencies emphasized the County’s large and diverse tax base, proximity to the District of Columbia, growing commercial and residential development, fiscal management policies and strong financial position.
- The Fitch Ratings report stated: “The 'Triple-A' Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and GO bond rating reflect the county's stable economic underpinnings, superior gap-closing capacity, and low long-term liability burden. The 'Triple-A' rating is also supported by a demonstrated capacity to absorb revenue losses during periods of economic downturn and management's ability to make sound fiscal decisions to restore and enhance the county's financial cushion and operations during recovery periods.”
- The Moody’s report stated: “Montgomery County, Maryland's (Triple-A stable) credit profile will continue to benefit from a dynamic and expanding economy, very affluent resident population, and a growing and highly educated work force. These strong economic and social factors, coupled with the County's prudent financial management, have contributed to a long-term trend of growing revenues, surplus operations, and improving reserve levels.”
- The Standard & Poor’s report stated: “The County's very strong property wealth and income levels, robust local job market, and access to the greater Washington, D.C. area for employment opportunities, in addition to well-established financial policies and practices, anchor Montgomery County's credit quality. The County has leveraged its very strong economic underpinnings to support its sound financial position, as the County has historically maintained strong or very strong budgetary flexibility.”
The Triple-A bond rating enables Montgomery County to sell long-term bonds at the most favorable rates, saving County taxpayers millions of dollars over the life of the bonds. The rating also serves as a benchmark for numerous other financial transactions, ensuring the lowest possible costs in those areas as well.
“Wall Street’s watchdogs have once again found our local economy and County management practices as amongst a handful of the very best in the country," said County Executive Elrich. "Out of more than 3,000 counties in this nation, Montgomery County is one of approximately 50 with a Triple-A bond rating from all three credit agencies. This mark of financial stability for more than three decades is a testament to consistent excellent financial stewardship, smart choices, and strategic investments. This bond rating saves our taxpayers millions of dollars in lower interest rates and demonstrates to the financial community that purchasing Montgomery County bonds is a wise investment. These funds are needed to continue to strengthen our County’s economy, create jobs and expand opportunities for our residents.”
County Council President Albornoz said the County has relied on traditional fiscal policies and has taken innovative steps where needed to maintain the bond ratings.
“Montgomery County’s steadfast commitment to maintaining its fiscal principles during challenging times and our ongoing responsible fiscal management has enabled our community to maintain its coveted Triple-A bond rating again this year,” said Council President Albornoz. “The Council relied on long-standing and new fiscal policies that were necessary to maintain robust reserves, even as we continue to recover from the global pandemic. Despite the many challenges caused by COVID-19, Montgomery County has continued the longest string of Triple-A bond ratings of any county in the nation. This would not have been possible without the long-term fiscal planning done by the Montgomery County Council, especially Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) Committee Chair Nancy Navarro and the entire GO Committee. We also recognize and thank County Executive Elrich and his fiscal team for their ongoing work and collaboration on this critical issue and the three bond rating agencies for their work.”
Councilmember Navarro, chair of the Council’s Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee stated: “I am ecstatic that once more Montgomery County has maintained its Triple-A bond rating. Montgomery County’s ongoing recovery efforts from COVID-19 have resulted in strains on our fiscal resources and government operations. It is our duty as legislators to act as good stewards of taxpayer money and to make decisions that fund needed services equitably and maintain fiscally responsible practices. This Council came together again this year to achieve these goals for our residents.”
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Classes for Adults to Learn Basic Bicycle Skills and Training Will Be Available in September, October and November
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he Washington Area Bicycle Association (WABA), in collaboration with the Montgomery County Department of Transportation, this fall will continue its series of classes to teach adults how to ride bicycles—and how to do it safely. Classes will be held on Sunday, Sept. 11, at the Upper County Community Recreation Center in Gaithersburg; on Sunday, Oct. 16, at Westfall Montgomery Mall in Bethesda; and on Saturday, Nov. 5, at Wheaton Ice Rink in Wheaton Regional Park.
Each class begins at 10 a.m. and lasts for three hours. The classes are open to residents 18-and-over who have never previously ridden a bike or who have not done so in a long time.
Advance registration is required to participate in the “Learn to Ride and Basic Skills Training Bike Classes.” The cost of each class is $10 for Montgomery County residents. There is no charge for WABA or Capital Bikeshare members. Classes are limited to 25 people and often fill up quickly.
Bicycles and helmets will be provided.
Scooter classes are also being offered on a drop-in basis on select days. Scooter classes do not require pre-registration.
Participants will learn how to start and stop, balance, glide, pedal and steer a bike. Each student will progress at their own pace. The classes will be led by experienced riders.
For more information and to register visit MCDOT’s website bit.ly/3QuDzkC or call 240-777-8380.
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.
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Montgomery County Wins Nearly $15 Million ‘Low or No-Emissions’ Award for the First Hydrogen Electric Bus Project on the East Coast
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has won a competitive grant award of nearly $15 million from the United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the purchase of 13 new hydrogen fuel cell buses and the construction of a green hydrogen fueling site at the David F. Bone Equipment Maintenance Transit Operations Center in Gaithersburg. The project will be the first public transit application of green hydrogen on the East Coast.
The award, from FTA’s Low or No Emission Vehicle Program, makes the County a leading adopter of this clean technology.
The award will enable the replacement of 13 diesel-fueled buses in the County’s Ride On fleet with zero-emission, hydrogen-electric powered buses. The project advances the County’s goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2035. It reduces annual emissions by 640 tons while ensuring reliable and sustainable bus service.
“This is the first project of its kind on the East Coast and drives forward several of our priorities, including converting our bus fleets to clean energy, reducing harmful emissions and improving our transit system—all in alignment with our ambitious climate goals,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “I’m pleased that the Federal Transit Administration selected our project for this competitive award and I want to thank the Maryland Delegation for supporting the effort.”
By producing hydrogen onsite using zero-emission electrolysis, the County avoids the byproducts of traditional fossil fuel-based hydrogen production. The zero-emission buses use hydrogen to power electric motors and emit only water from their tailpipes.
The new fuel cell buses, alongside existing and planned battery-electric buses in the Ride On fleet, will enable MCDOT to provide clean, sustainable and reliable bus service.
In March 2022, FTA announced approximately $1.1 billion available to jurisdictions across the name for grants to assist modernization of bus fleets and to help transit agencies purchase or lease low- or no- emission vehicles that use advanced technologies to help improve air quality and combat climate change. FTA received 530 eligible project proposals totaling approximately $7.72 billion in requests.
These are the first of the FTA's competitive grant selections under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The programs support the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to expand the nation's transportation infrastructure, create and maintain good-paying jobs and fight climate change.
“With today's awards, we are helping communities across America—in cities, suburbs and rural areas alike—purchase more than 1,800 new buses, and most of them are zero-emission,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. "Funded through President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this announcement means more good jobs for people across the country, cleaner air in our communities and more affordable and reliable options to help people get to where they need to go."
The FTA award covers 57 percent of the total $28.6 million dollar of the Montgomery County project. The County will provide the required match from funds programmed in its capital budget for buses.
MCDOT continues its commitment to move to a zero-emissions fleet. In September 2017, MCDOT received an FTA grant for $1.75 million to purchase four electric buses and charging stations. Those buses are currently in service in the Silver Spring area. MCDOT received more than $4 million from another FTA grant to replace 10 diesel buses with new electric models. Those buses will be in service later this year.
“We are consistently seeking and applying for grants to further the County’s transportation system,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “These hydrogen buses are a key element in reaching our zero-emissions goal. They have a longer service period than electric buses to accommodate longer routes in our system and are faster to refuel. Our track record of innovation and sustainability makes us well-positioned to adopt this technology successfully.”
Montgomery County is partnering with industry experts to deliver the project. The Center for Transportation and the Environment, a nonprofit national leader in zero-emission bus deployments, will provide technical assistance. Trillium, a leading provider of clean fuels, will design and construct the hydrogen fueling station.
The buses are expected to be in service by late 2025.
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.
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Rockville Gun Buyback
Saturday August 27th at 10:00am-2:00pm
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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.
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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.
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Free E-Scooter Training!
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New Preregistration Survey Now in Place for Monkeypox Vaccines, but in Limited Supply
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Monkeypox continues to be an infection of growing concern in Montgomery County and around the nation. Montgomery County has a limited supply of monkeypox vaccine and has established a new preregistration survey to identify residents who are interested in receiving a vaccination and are at risk for having been exposed to monkeypox in the previous four to 14 days.
The preregistration survey is now online.
Appointments to receive vaccines at Montgomery County-operated clinics are based on eligibility and vaccine supply is not guaranteed.
As of Thursday, Aug. 4, there are 6,617 confirmed monkeypox cases in the United States and 157 cases in Maryland.
Monkeypox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox can infect animals, such as monkeys and rodents, as well as humans. The monkeypox virus belongs to the same group of viruses that cause smallpox and is not related to chicken pox.
Monkeypox symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash one to four days later.
Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts two to four weeks.
The first case of human monkeypox was recorded in 1970. Since then, monkeypox has been reported in people in several central and western African countries. Prior to the current outbreak, nearly all monkeypox cases in people outside of Africa were linked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly occurs, or through imported animals.
In May 2022, several clusters of monkeypox were reported in countries that do not normally report human monkeypox cases, including the United States.
Information about symptoms of Monkeypox and how to prevent are on the County website at Monkeypox (montgomerycountymd.gov).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that symptoms of monkeypox can include:
- 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.
The CDC further advises that a person infected with Monkeypox may experience all or only a few symptoms:
- 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.
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County Offering COVID-19 Vaccines to Children 6 Months to 5 Years, But Supplies Are Limited
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Montgomery County continues to vaccinate children ages 6 months to 5 years old. Parents are encouraged to protect their children and get them vaccinated.
The Pfizer-BioNtech and Moderna vaccines were recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Multiple vaccination clinics are held weekly and appointments are encouraged, but not required. Learn about upcoming clinics and make an appointment at www.GoVaxMoCo.com.
The Maryland Department of Health also is providing vaccines to pediatricians and participating private local pharmacies.
“It is good news that this last age group is now eligible to receive their vaccine doses,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “We know that many parents are anxious to get their babies and young children vaccinated as quickly as possible. As we have seen with previous vaccine rollouts, we expect great demand over the next couple of weeks for these vaccines with limited supply available. Because the majority of the vaccines are going to private pediatric providers, we encourage all parents to check with their pediatrician’s office before using our website to sign up for an appointment. I am grateful for the preparation, planning and outreach efforts from DHHS and our community partners to ensure equitable access to these vaccines. Getting vaccinated and boosted is important to our COVID mitigation efforts, and we continue to encourage everyone to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations.”
County-operated clinics for this age group will focus on weekend clinics and will include some weekday evening hours. Appointments are required at this time. The County will continue to receive doses from the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), with the majority of doses going to private physicians and pharmacies.
“We know that many parents have been anxiously awaiting the approval of the COVID-19 vaccine for younger children,” said James Bridgers, the acting County health officer. “Because vaccine delivery amount will take some time to ramp up, parents are urged to be patient, as there will not be enough supply initially to vaccinate all eligible children immediately. The Maryland Department of Health has assured local health departments across the State that vaccine supplies will continue to be distributed weekly."
The County will work to ensure the vaccine is distributed equitably, which includes hosting clinics in areas where vaccination rates are lower. County-operated clinics will require appointments, initially, to ensure that there is enough vaccine at each site. MCPS is working with DHHS to help community members make appointments.
For the latest COVID-19 updates, visit the County’s COVID-19 website.
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Thrive 2050 Community Forum
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Thrive Montgomery 2050 Survey
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Attention: Montgomery County, MD Retail Business Owners
Montgomery County Small Business Rental Program Phase 2
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If your revenues were negatively impacted by COVID-19 and you did NOT receive business rental assistance from Montgomery County in 2021, you may be eligible for a grant program that will launch this fall. As part of Montgomery County’s continued efforts to assist small businesses that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the County will launch the second phase of the rental assistance program from its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund.
This program is open to all retail service establishments negatively impacted by COVID-19 that did NOT receive a business rental assistance grant in 2021. Qualifying businesses will receive a one-time grant covering three months’ rent up to a maximum of $10,000.
The application portal for this grant program will open on September 1 and close on Sept 30, 2022.
While Latino Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) will be administering this program on behalf of Montgomery County, the funds are available to all eligible businesses including Asian Americans, African Americans, Black, Latino, and others.
https://www.ledcmetro.org/small_biz_rental_assistance_phase_2
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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.
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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.
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Montgomery County ‘FareShare’ Program Can Help Commuters with Monthly Travel Expenses If They Use Public Transit or Vanpools
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Commuters working in Montgomery County can get reimbursed for up to $280 a month for using public transit, or vanpooling, by asking their employers to set up a transportation benefits program. The “FareShare” program of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) offers reimbursements to local businesses for their employees’ costs for commuting to work by public transit—and the money is tax-free.
In addition to vanpools, the program could cover expenses incurred by commuters using Ride On bus, Metrobus, Metrorail or MARC train to commute to and from a workplace within Montgomery County.
Businesses looking to implement or expand a transportation benefit program must commit to covering the first $25 per month of travel costs for employees who use buses or vanpools. The County will cover expenses over the initial $25, up to $280 a month. The full subsidy could be as high as $3,360 per year, per employee. It is tax-free to both the employee and the employer.
There is a maximum payout of $40,000 to each business per year. The reimbursements can be a direct benefit, a pre-tax payroll deduction or a combination of both. MCDOT Commuter Services staff offers free assistance in setting up a commuter benefits program that is tailored to a business’ needs.
"I'm pleased to help businesses in Montgomery County work with their employees to increase public transit ridership and vanpooling in our area," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "This program helps take cars off the road and lower the cost of commuting to work while reducing pollution levels."
Participating employers are also eligible for a state tax credit of 50 percent of their $25 contribution per employee each month. This credit is available to both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. For more information on tax credits, visit Commuter Choice Maryland here.
“A lot of workers are returning to offices at least on a hybrid schedule,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “With gas prices so high, people are looking for alternatives that will make their commute less expensive and more convenient. Employers have an opportunity to provide an impactful benefit to their employees and to reduce their taxes.”
Transportation benefits help raise employee satisfaction, help businesses recruit and retain employees, and help promote the organization as an employer that cares about its workforce and the environment.
A Montgomery County Commuter Services partner, Ellumen, Inc., recently received the 2022 Employer Recognition Award for the marketing of its commuter benefits program. The small privately held healthcare IT company based in Silver Spring has reduced employee vehicle miles traveled by 512,080 miles and saved an estimated 23,276 gallons of gas annually through marketing efforts geared towards employees.
For more information and to request free support to implement or increase a transportation reimbursement program visit the MCDOT website here.
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.
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Have you had a chance to review the Pedestrian Master Plan draft recommendations yet?
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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!
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Outdoor Pool Hours
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Montgomery County Recreation Rises Up in Celebration of Parks and Recreation Month
July is Park and Recreation Month, and Montgomery County Recreation invites residents to come out and enjoy one, or all, of the hundreds of recreation programs offered that contribute to a healthier lifestyle and enhance the quality of life for all ages, cultures, and abilities. The month-long celebration is a National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) initiative.
“Montgomery County is more welcoming, stronger, vibrant, and resilient because of the outstanding recreation programs and services,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “I hope everyone will take advantage of all the excellent amenities offered by our team at Montgomery County Recreation and take some time this month to thank them for all their great work.”
“July comes in with a bang with our Independence Day fireworks and concerts and throughout the month we reach thousands of residents at our senior centers, community recreation centers, and swimming pools, or through our summer programs which serve many age groups," said Montgomery County Recreation Director Robin Riley. “The work we do every day makes a difference to those we serve. I am incredibly proud of the hard-working recreation team members who ensure our residents have high-quality, essential recreation services.”
Montgomery County Recreation joins NRPA in encouraging community members to share their experiences, memories, and stories about what the recreation department means to them. Share your stories with Montgomery County Recreation using the hashtag #RiseUpJuly on social media via Facebook and Twitter and follow to stay current on the latest with the department.
Learn more about Montgomery County Recreation by visiting the website.
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Study released on predicting and preventing severe traffic crashes in Montgomery County
The Montgomery County Planning Department briefed the Montgomery Planning Board on July 21 on the findings of a transportation safety study, the Predictive Safety Analysis, that uses data to estimate the number of crashes at all roadway segments and intersections in the county. The analysis will help county decisionmakers make targeted changes to the roadway network to advance the county’s goal to eliminate traffic-related deaths and severe injuries by 2030.
View the Predictive Safety Analysis Final Report
View the top 200 crash locations by crash type map
View the staff report from the July 21 Planning Board meeting
“The Predictive Safety Analysis is the first step towards implementing proactive approaches to improve traffic safety in Montgomery County,” said project manager, Jesse Cohn McGowan. “This marks a shift from primarily focusing in a reactive way on locations where crashes have occurred to more proactive and systemic approaches that identify and treat locations that have high risk for crashes in the future.”
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MCDOT/Ride On Fare Collection Restart & New Route 27
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Ride On Fare Restart Beginning August 1, 2022
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Summer Reading Challenge!
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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:
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Get Back to Work or Train Your Employees with FREE Online Courses!
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Worksource Montgomery Asset Map Project
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WorkSource Montgomery has launched a new program available to all Montgomery County residents and businesses called SkillUp® Montgomery, a free online job skills training platform provided by the Metrix E-Learning® System.
All eligible Montgomery County residents can take classes, explore career pathways, and even prepare for various industry-recognized certifications, all for free and from home. It is designed for all types of job seekers whether they are looking for a first job, new job, or to advance in their chosen field. The Metrix E-Learning® System provides 24/7 access for up to six months to over 5,000 workplaces, business, technical, and IT courses and 10 industry career “pathways.”
SkillUp® Montgomery is not just for jobseekers! Small businesses and other local employers can utilize the platform as well to upskill current staff, find skilled candidates, or for new hire training. Custom curricula can be developed to a particular employer or industry. Employers can also list job openings, descriptions, and the skills they are looking for. Employers can select relevant assessments for candidates to take to evaluate their skills and schedule interviews. These features are available for free or with minimal costs.
To review the course catalog and or sign up for SkillUp® Montgomery, visit http://wsm.skillupamerica.org today! For questions about the platform, please email us at SkillUp@worksourcemontgomer
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WorkSource Montgomery (WSM) would like to thank all of the community-based organizations who participated and contributed to our Community Asset Project!
Our goal was to develop a digital resource that serves as a regional adult services community asset map. In order to do that, we wanted to capitalize on the existing resources already available within the county. The adage “it takes a village” certainly applied to this great effort!
With support and input from our workforce ecosystem partners, we identified and confirmed 111 organizations and 293 adult services across Montgomery County, MD — and are proud to announce the map is complete and available as a valuable resource for all our partners and customers!
“The first step to truly building an integrated workforce system is to identify the components of the system. To this end, the Community Asset Map is a huge step forward in this process. From here, we look to build on the identified service strengths and seek means to enhance service areas where the demand (for services) exceeds the supply (of services).” — Anthony Featherstone, Executive Director of WorkSource Montgomery. |
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Community Action Agency's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program
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COVID-19 News from Montgomery County
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COVID-19 Remains a Community Concern and County Continues to Distribute Free Vaccines, Rapid Test Kits and Masks
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Montgomery County had an average of about 50 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people at this time last year. For the last several weeks, the County is averaging more than 200 reported cases per 100,000 residents. The County, like the national trend, is seeing reinfections in some residents and health officials say that natural immunity is not as strong as the immunity people get from vaccination and boosters.
The County Department of Health and Human Services recommends the following:
The County continues to provide free rapid tests and N-95 masks at many library locations. Vaccinations and boosters are available at multiple locations in Montgomery County.
A supply of the protein-based Novavax vaccine is expected to be available to the County very soon. The technology has been used for decades to combat diseases such as hepatitis B and influenza. Clinical trials have shown the two-dose vaccine to have similar effectiveness as the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines at preventing and reducing illness from COVID-19.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides the following advice regarding COVID-19:
“COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States are effective at protecting people—especially those who are boosted—from getting seriously ill, being hospitalized and even dying. As with other diseases, you are protected best from COVID-19 when you stay up to date with the recommended vaccines.”
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Masks Now Optional on Montgomery County Ride On Buses
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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.
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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.
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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.
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