COVID-19 News from Montgomery County
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A Message from County Executive Marc Elrich
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County Executive Marc Elrich this week reflects on his own experiences during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s and encourages residents to attend a special event saluting Martin Luther King Jr. and heroes of the Civil Rights movement on Friday, Feb. 18. He wants to let residents know that the County indoor mask mandate will end on Feb. 21 and encourages unboosted residents to join the “Boosterama” event in Wheaton on Saturday. He addresses the importance of proposed State legislation, salutes the heroic action of a County Police Officer and pays tribute to a company that is celebrating its 50th year of doing business in the County.
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‘Boosterama’ Returns to Westfield Wheaton on Feb. 19; Encourages County Residents to get COVID-19 Booster Shots
Montgomery County, in partnership with Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar and Westfield Wheaton, will again be hosting a “Boosterama” event on Saturday, Feb. 19 from 1 to 4 p.m., at the Westfield Wheaton Mall at 11160 Veirs Mill Rd. in Wheaton. The Boosterama is an effort by the County to increase the number of people with boosters by taking the vaccine to places like malls and other public areas that are more convenient for residents. First doses for adults and children ages 12 and older will also be available. No appointment is needed. Pediatric doses will not be administered at this event.
The event will be held inside the mall's entrance 14, on the first floor, near DICK’S Sporting Goods. Eight individuals who receive their booster or first dose vaccination at the event will be chosen at random to receive a $25 gift card to be used throughout Westfield Wheaton’s wide variety of retailers. Free rapid test kits and N95 masks will be provided to those who get vaccinated.
“While about half of our eligible population has received boosters, we’re seeing a slowdown in the number of eligible people getting boosters,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “There is a clear correlation between being vaccinated and the reduced impact of severe COVID-19 symptoms. The bottom line is that vaccines work. Please don’t delay getting this extra protection if you still need, and are eligible for, your booster.
The Boosterama is part of a broader effort by the County to maintain its strong collective immunity, especially after the increase in cases these past few months due to the Omicron variant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 84 percent of Montgomery County residents are fully vaccinated, and 95 percent have received at least one dose. While vaccinations provide robust immunity against COVID-19, boosters have shown to create a more sustained protection against the virus, especially as new variants continue circulating in the United States.
To date, more than 407,600 booster doses have been given at County-operated vaccination clinics. While this number represents more than 20 percent of all boosters given throughout the State, it only about half of the residents who are eligible for boosters have received one. If it has been at least five months since receiving your second Pfizer or Moderna shot, or if it has been two months since you got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you are eligible for a booster.
In addition to Saturday’s Boosterama, vaccination or booster shots are widely available at locations throughout the community. Make an appointment for a booster shot or find other locations at GoVaxMoco.com. For more information about Por Nuestra Salud Y Bienestar, visit https://www.lhiinfo.org/saludybienestar/.
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Montgomery County Holiday Schedule for Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 21
The Montgomery County Government will observe the following schedule changes for Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 21:
- County offices—Closed.
- State offices and courts—Closed.
- State Motor Vehicle Administration offices and Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations—Closed.
- Libraries—Closed.
- COVID-19 test kit and mask distributions at libraries—No distributions on Feb. 21.
- Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS)—Stores open noon-6 p.m.
- Ride On—Will operate on new schedules that went into effect on Jan. 16. Those schedules can be viewed at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/january-16-2022-schedules.html.
- Ride On extRa and Flex—Not in service.
- Flash—Will operate on a weekend schedule (Orange Line only).
- MARC Train and Commuter Bus—Information available at https://www.mta.maryland.gov/marc-train-presidents-day.
- TRiPS Silver Spring commuter store—Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
- TRiPS Mobile Commuter Store—Closed.
- Metrobus—Will operate on a Saturday supplemental schedule.
- Metrorail—Will run regularly scheduled weekday service.
- MetroAccess customers—Can make a reservation to travel on the holiday, but subscription trips will be canceled.
- Parking at public garages, lots, curbside meters—Free.
- County-collected trash and recycling—No collections will be made on Feb. 21. Collections will slide one day each week from the regular schedules. More information is available at https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/sws/holidays/.
- Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station will be open for trash and recycling drop-offs. The Recycling Center will be closed. No tours will be scheduled.
- Recreation—Aquatics facilities will be open and all aquatics programs will meet as scheduled. All senior centers and community recreation centers will be closed. All other classes and programs will not be held.
- Montgomery Parks—Visit MontgomeryParks.org for complete information. The following facilities will be closed:
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Horario del Condado de Montgomery para el feriado del Día de los presidentes el lunes 21 de febrero
El Gobierno del Condado de Montgomery observará los siguientes cambios de horario para el feriado del Día de los presidentes el lunes 21 de febrero:
- Oficinas del condado: Cerradas.
- Oficinas estatales y tribunales: Cerrados.
- Oficinas de la Administración Estatal de Vehículos Motorizados y estaciones del Programa de Inspección de Emisiones de Vehículos: Cerradas.
- Bibliotecas: cerradas.
- Distribuciones de kits de prueba COVID-19 y máscaras en las bibliotecas: no habrá distribuciones el 21 de febrero.
- Servicios de Bebidas Alcohólicas: Tiendas abiertas desde el mediodía hasta las 6 p.m.
- Ride On: funcionará con los nuevos horarios que entraron en vigencia el 16 de enero. Esos horarios se pueden ver en https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/january-16-2022-schedules.html.
- Ride On extRa y Flex: no están en servicio.
- Flash: operará en horario de fin de semana (solo en la Línea Naranja).
- Tren y autobús MARC: información disponible en https://www.mta.maryland.gov/marc-train-presidents-day.
- Tienda para pasajeros TRiPS Silver Spring: abierta de 10 a. m. a 4 p. m.
- TRiPS tienda móvil de cercanías: Cerrada.
- Metrobus: Operará en un horario suplementario de sábado.
- Metrorail: Ofrecerá un servicio regular de lunes a viernes.
- Clientes de MetroAccess: pueden hacer una reserva para viajar durante el feriado, pero los viajes de suscripción se cancelarán.
- Estacionamiento en garajes públicos, lotes, parquímetros en la acera: Gratis.
- Basura y reciclaje recolectados por el Condado: no se realizarán recolecciones el 21 de febrero. Las recolecciones se deslizarán un día cada semana de los horarios regulares. Hay más información disponible en https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/sws/holidays/.
- La planta de procesamiento y la estación de transferencia de Shady Grove estarán abiertas para la entrega de basura y reciclaje. El Centro de Reciclaje estará cerrado. No se programarán recorridos.
- Recreación: las instalaciones acuáticas estarán abiertas y todos los programas acuáticos se reunirán según lo programado. Todos los centros para personas mayores y los centros de recreación comunitarios estarán cerrados. Todas las demás clases y programas no se llevarán a cabo.
- Montgomery Parks: visite MontgomeryParks.org para obtener información completa. Las siguientes instalaciones estarán cerradas:
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SILVER SPRING REGION OPPORTUNITIES
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Hillwood Manor Neighborhood Park Drainage Improvement Project
Project Description
This project will renovate the existing playground and picnic area at Hillwood Manor Neighborhood Park for multi-purpose recreation and leisure uses while providing accessibility and stormwater management improvements. The park is located at 1301 Elson Street in Takoma Park. The existing playground equipment has aged beyond the point where replacement parts can be ordered.
Background
The existing playground will be removed and a new playground will be installed in its place. Local park playgrounds are typically 3,500 to 5,000 square feet in size and include playground equipment to meet the needs of children from ages 2-12 and seating for caregivers. Typical types of equipment include swings, play structures, and smaller freestanding pieces.
After the playground renovation project had begun, staff had the opportunity to initiate a joint project with the City of Takoma Park to address stormwater runoff from 13th Street in the vicinity of the playground. A structural micro-bioretention area, approximately 13 feet wide by 120 feet long, is proposed along the length of the lowest area of the road. This facility is intended to treat off-site runoff before it reaches the stream. The new playground will be constructed behind this facility and separated from it with a fence. The plan also includes stormwater management underneath the playground surfacing to treat the playground and new impervious surfaces associated with the playground. One existing storm drain outfall pipe that runs underneath the playground from the road to the stream will also be replaced, due to its poor condition.
M-NCPPC acquired this playground on July 1, 1997, when the surrounding area, along with Hillwood Manor Neighborhood Park, was transferred to Montgomery County from Prince George’s County. The playground sits within the two-acre park along Sligo Creek with director access to the Sligo Creek Trail and other park amenities. This project is a part of the Playground Renovation Program. Renovations will provide new playground equipment and site upgrades, enhance accessibility, and improve stormwater management at the site.
Status/Project Update
- Parks held a virtual community on June 23, 2020, to present to the public the initial plans to renovate the playground. Residents were encouraged to review the plan and submit their comments in the Parks Open Town Hall Forum.
- Staff developed playground design concepts based on feedback from community members. The playground design concepts, along with the proposed stormwater management improvements are available for review on the Open Town Hall Forum. The community is encouraged to review the plan and submit their comments by May 31, 2021.
- Option #2 was determined to be the option that best met the desires expressed in the Open Town Hall comments. It provides more activities and a greater variety of activities for all ages than Option #1. There was strong interest expressed in the Super Nova from Option #1, which was added to the final layout. View the final layout and the playground renderings.
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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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Enjoy Outdoor Winter Fun in Silver Spring
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Looking for a fun winter activity for your family? The Silver Spring Ice Skating Rink at Veterans Plaza is offering staggered skating sessions with online reservations and ticket purchasing. The rink itself is outdoors. This makes it a great place for families and adults looking for fun, winter themed outings, especially if they are hesitant to attend indoor gatherings due to the increased spread of COVID-19 and the Omicron variant.
The Silver Spring Ice Skating Rink requires social distancing while at the facility, on the ice rink itself, and while waiting to enter the facility. Masks must be worn inside the facility.
The rink is open seven days a week. Skating sessions are for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Reservations are available two weeks in advance, and staggered every five minutes. To purchase tickets, please visit https://www.silverspringiceskating.com/. The rink has over 400 pairs of skates available to rent, sized from toddler to adult.
After skating, you can take advantage of all of the nearby restaurants and coffee shops to grab a hot chocolate or meal to eat at one of the outdoor dining tables on Veterans Plaza. Dining and restaurant options can be found at www.SilverSpringDowntown.com.
The address of the Ice Skating Rink is 1 Veterans Place, Silver Spring in the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District. The rink is scheduled to close for the season at 10 p.m. March 31, weather permitting.
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Community Safety Works Grant Notice of Funding Availability
The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is administering a Community Safety Works grant opportunity that will encourage the implementation of crime prevention strategies through physical design improvements and community vigilance and maintenance.
Facility Improvements: Maximum grant request is $25,000 for facility-related improvements that make nonprofit organizations, including faith-based nonprofit organizations, facilities safer and more defensible. Notice of Funding Availability announcement.
The Facility Improvements application will be available online. Prior to submitting an application you will be required to register with the Maryland OneStop Portal.
OneStop is the central hub for Maryland State licenses, forms, certificates, permits, applications, and registrations and can be accessed at: https://onestop.md.gov.
For more information, visit the website or contact
dhcd.communitysafety@maryland.gov.
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Spanish in our Community Class
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Click the flyer above for the application form!
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Silver Spring’s Popular Spanish Club Remains Online in New Year
Thursday, February 24th at 5:30pm
Silver Spring Library’s popular Club Español will remain on its virtual platform every Thursday from 5:30-6:30.
Plans to begin in person gathers will follow Montgomery County Library protocol.
The Club welcomes adults and teenagers of all skill levels to practice their Spanish by using library resources, local Spanish radio and television broadcasts, poems, songs, posters and signs in the community. The Club will also host native Spanish speaking guests from Montgomery County’s large Hispanic community.
For more information contact Silver Spring librarian Abdulai Koroma Abdulai.Koroma@montgomerycountymd.gov or call (240) 773-9420 or go to https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/library/ for links to the weekly sessions.
El Club Español is led by Rosanne Skirble, who teaches Spanish at Montgomery College, has worked with library staff to offer the once-a-week virtual Club since March 2020, and before the pandemic at Long Branch library.
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Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee Openings!
County Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill eight vacancies on the Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee for three representatives of option method developers, two representatives of residential communities in the urban district, and three representatives that employ fewer than 25 employees. Two optional method developers, one resident and one small business incumbent are eligible to apply for reappointment.
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.
Applicants of diverse, backgrounds, professions, genders, geography, abilities, 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. Members must complete training on the Maryland Open Meetings Act and basic parliamentary procedure.
The County Executive’s appointments are subject to confirmation by the County Council. Applications will be forwarded to the Council for confirmation and may be made public as part of the confirmation process.
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Silver Spring Transportation Management District
Representative Opening
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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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Silver Spring Town Center Inc. Winter Calendar
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COUNTY WIDE OPPORTUNITIES
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Click the calendar above for more information
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Council to Host Virtual Town Hall Meeting on Mental Health on March 1 at 7pm
Join the County Council for a virtual town hall on March 1, 2022 from 7-9 p.m. to learn about mental health resources in our community and provide your views and suggestions.
Únete a la conversación virtual el 1 de Marzo a las 7:00 p.m. para conocer más sobre los recursos del apoyo mental disponibles para la comunidad. Queremos saber tus opiniones y sugerencias.
Register today
https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__wBDjLSIRMqX6gjm6BgndA
PARA REGISTRARSE EN ESPAÑOL, USE ESTE FORMULARIO
https://forms.gle/Hu1VZZ1ckFzV8ERV9.
Link to press release in English | Spanish
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‘Heads Up, Phones Down’ Video Contest to be Held Feb. 1-22 for Montgomery County Teens to Promote Safer Driving and Walking
Montgomery County teens have an opportunity to win some great prizes by producing videos to encourage peers not to allow cell phones to distract them while driving and walking. The County Department of Transportation's “Heads Up, Phones Down” high school video contest will be accepting entries of 30-second Public Service Announcements (PSAs) between Feb. 1 and Feb. 22.
Montgomery County public and private high school students can submit videos for the contest. Video entries can be submitted individually or as a group of up to four in English or Spanish.
There is one grand prize and a first and second runner up for both the individual and group submission categories. Winning group submissions will split the grand prize with gift cards for each member. Individual submissions may qualify for prizes including a PlayStation Five, an Apple Watch or tripod.
Students can submit their entries on the website’s entry form here. Students may also qualify for up to five Student Service Learning (SSL) hours for successfully completing an entry.
Winning entries will be announced live on Instagram at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 11, and will be posted on the MCDOT website here.
Visit the contest website for more information at montgomerycountymd.gov/HUPD.
Send contest-related questions to pedestrian.safety@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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Montgomery Recreation and Montgomery Parks Open Summer Camp Registrations on Tuesday, Feb. 22
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There may be a few more weeks of winter weather, but Montgomery County Recreation and Montgomery Parks are hard at work planning spring programs and summer camps. Registration for their summer camps will open Tuesday, Feb. 22. In addition, Montgomery Recreation will hold two free camp fairs to help families plan summer activities on Saturday, Feb. 26, and Sunday, March 13.
Registrations for the Montgomery Recreation and Montgomery Parks spring programs are now open.
The Montgomery Recreation Spring and Summer Camp Guide has been combined and can be viewed on the website.
Information on registration for Montgomery Park's summer programs and camps is available at https://montgomeryparks.org/classes-camps/.
The schedule for the Montgomery Recreation free summer camp fairs:
Each summer camp fair will have fun activities for the whole family. Montgomery Recreation’s mascot, “T-Rec,” will be available for meet-and-greet sessions and to entertain children.
At the fairs, families can meet with recreation staff members and talk with instructors to learn more about the multiple offerings, participate in hands-on activities and register children for camp. Information on financial aid also will be available.
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Montgomery County Public Libraries to Host Black History Month Programs
Montgomery County Public Libraries will host the following programs in observance of Black History Month. All programs are free and offered virtually. An internet connection and a device (such as a smartphone, tablet or computer) are required for participation.
Saturday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m. Human Beatbox with Christylez Bacon
Join Grammy nominated Progressive Hip-Hop artist Christylez Bacon for a Human Beatbox program for children and families.
Sunday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m. Montgomery County's Little-Known Rosenwald Schools - Presenter Ralph Buglass
Montgomery County once had 17 Rosenwald schools. Learn about the schools' remarkable impact and importance, along with then-and-now photos of the five buildings that survive.
Attendees will need to be logged in to Zoom to attend all virtual program. A free account can be created on the Zoom website - https://zoom.us/signin.
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Black History Month at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum
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Residents Encouraged to ‘Get All Your Tax Credits’
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In recognition of Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day, January 28, County Executive Marc Elrich encourages residents to “Get All Your Tax Credits.” Residents with household incomes of $58,000 or less may be eligible for the federal, State and County Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) and free tax assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program.
"In a historic move, Maryland legislators increased the State's EITC and, for the first time, closed the EITC disparity for taxpayers filing with an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), who previously were ineligible,” said County Executive Elrich. “In this time when many workers struggle to pay for food and housing and may be earning less because of wages lost due to COVID-19, I am proud that our County responded, especially because 80 percent of the EITC gets pumped back into our County's economy."
This year presents a special opportunity for eligible taxpayers with dependents, and without, to increase their refunds due to increases of federal, State, and local tax credits. Montgomery County is among a few jurisdictions across the country - and the only in Maryland - with a local match to the State's earned income credit, called the WFIS. All filers who are eligible for the State EITC or federal EITC are also eligible for the WFIS, which is a 100-percent match of the Maryland EITC. For the first time, those who use an ITIN to file their taxes will also receive the Maryland EITC.
Research indicates that the EITC and the Child Tax Credit are among the best tools available to lift people out of poverty. Studies of the EITC have linked it to numerous other benefits such as increased birthweights, improved maternal health, and decreases in children entering foster care. The EITC can also reduce health disparities and improve educational outcomes for children.
The CASHBACK website provides up-to-date information about Earned Income Tax Credits and free tax assistance in the county. The Community Action Agency (CAA) hosts the County’s only year-round VITA program and oversees the County’s VITA partnership. This tax season, the CAA VITA program is offering free virtual appointments to County residents with household incomes of $58,000 or less. Residents can schedule online at the CASHBACK website or call 240-777-1123.
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Ride On Bus Operator Positions Available
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Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is actively hiring full-time and part-time Ride On bus operators. MCDOT is looking for dynamic individuals with a passion for public service, at any stage of their career. No experience is necessary. MCDOT is offering paid training to applicants.
Benefits include:
- Paid training
- Competitive Starting Salary
- Paid Commercial Driver’s License Training
- Paid Holidays, Annual and Sick Leave
- Retirement Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Free Uniforms
- Ongoing Professional Development and Career Path for Advancement
For more information and to apply visit, https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/DOT-Transit/jobs.html
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Sharing What They Like About Montgomery County’s First Rapid Transit Service Can Win Residents Prizes in ‘Love Flash’ Bus Photo Contest
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Montgomery County residents can win a prize this month by sharing what they love about the County’s first rapid transit service— the Flash bus—in the County Department of Transportation’s “Love Flash” photo contest on Twitter.
In the contest, residents are asked to post a photo or comment on Twitter sharing what they love about the Flash, or other Ride On bus service, for a chance to win a prize pack. Entries must be posted to Twitter by Feb. 28 and tag @RideOnMCT or @MCDOTNow. Entries must include the hashtags #LoveFlash and #RideTheFlash to be entered into a drawing for a chance to win.
The first Flash line operated by the County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) serves Colesville Road/Columbia Pike (US 29) and connects the Downtown Silver Spring Transit Center with White Oak and Briggs Chaney with stops along the way.
Flash service—which uses 60-foot-long articulated buses—carries more than 2,100 riders per day. Flash buses feature bike racks inside, free Wi-Fi service and USB ports. At full capacity, the buses can transport up to 80 passengers and are more frequent and time-efficient than traditional buses.
“It did not take very long for Montgomery County residents to 'Love Flash' and we hope that they share their thoughts and photos with us through this creative contest," said County Executive Marc Elrich. "I am proud that we are investing in our transportation infrastructure, which helps alleviate traffic and improves our environment. I’ve made transit a priority and recently recommended funding for the final design and construction of both the Flash corridors on Veirs Mill Road and the central section of 355. Expansion of our Flash bus corridors is important for residents to have equitable access to jobs, educational facilities and access to essential services."
The prize pack for the photo contest winner includes a large box of Godiva Chocolate, a $25 Visa gift card and a fresh cut roses-scented Yankee Candle. The winner will be announced on March 1 through direct message and on the @MCDOT Twitter page.
“Thousands of people rely on public transportation daily as it offers a safe, convenient and cost-effective means to get where they need to go,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “This is a fun way to draw attention to our buses and thank our customers. If you don’t normally use the bus, we are encouraging you to try them out. Bus fares are free for everyone at least until July 2022.”
As part of the Love Flash campaign, Flash buses will be decorated with heart window clings. MCDOT outreach teams will be at the White Oak and Silver Spring Transit Centers on Valentine’s Day, Monday, Feb. 14, to greet riders and distribute treats.
The US 29 Flash was the first step in creating a network of Bus Rapid Transit lines (BRT) in the County. The route celebrated its one-year anniversary in October 2021 and already has one of the highest ridership counts in the County.
The County Executive’s proposed Capital Improvements Budget includes advancing additional Flash corridors. These include routes on Veirs Mill Road and the central section of 355. The County Council will host the first public meetings on the recommendations, and hear public feedback, today, Tuesday, Feb. 8, and Wednesday, Feb. 9.
For ongoing updates, follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, visit the MCDOT website, and subscribe to MCDOT’s “Go Montgomery!” newsletter here.
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Planning Board and Planning Department announce February 2022 online events
The Montgomery County Planning Board and the Montgomery County Planning Department have announced their February 2022 calendar of meetings. View the full list of events.
The Planning Board has suspended in-person participation and attendance at meetings due to the recent increase in COVID-19 positive cases in Montgomery County until further notice. Residents can participate in Planning Board meetings by testifying virtually and watching the meetings on the Planning Board’s live stream. Community members may sign up to testify and provide comments through Microsoft Teams or over the phone to the Board during the meeting on specific agenda items. Written testimony may be submitted in advance of the meeting. For accessibility accommodations, contact us.
February 24 – The Planning Board will hold its meeting online. Consult the Planning Board’s agenda, posted 10 days before the meeting for more information. Watch the meetings online via live stream or review previous meetings on demand.
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Go Electric on March 19th!
10am-4pm, Montgomery College, North Campus Drive, Rockville
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Curious about electric leaf blowers and mowers? Interested in an electric car or solar panels for your property? Come to our Go Electric event and learn more!
- Recycle gas yard equipment and small appliances for free
- Learn about special March discounts and rebates on electric leaf blowers at ACE stores in Montgomery County
- Check out a Ride On electric bus–bring the kids!
- Bring your old lightbulbs and get up to 3 free LEDs
- Tour electric cars in person and learn about car charging systems
- Learn about solar charging for your building and installation incentives
- Switch from fossil fuels to sustainable electric sources and save $$
- Check out County green energy initiatives
- And more!
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IMPACT Silver Spring and Hughes United Methodist Church are preparing a Health and Resource Fair
Saturday, May 7th at 11:00am
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Provide Your Feedback on the FY23 Metro Budget
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Metro Update: Fare Modernization and old SmarTrip® Cards
Say farewell to those old SmarTrip cards! If you’re SmarTrip card was purchased before 2012, it will not work after March 1, 2022 on Metrorail and Metrobus because of new faregate and farebox technology.
If you’re currently using Metro, there are three easy ways to replace your card by March 1: •
- Visit wmata.com/cardreplacement
- Call 1-888-SMARTRIP (1-888-762-7874)
- Visit the Sales Office at Metro Center Station (Tuesday – Thursday, 8 am – Noon)
- Note. If you’re older card was ever enrolled in the SmartBenefits program, you must replace your card online at wmata.com/cardreplacement
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- Customers who aren’t currently using Metro and would like to receive a replacement card by mail should visit wmata.com/cardreplacement to download the mail-in form. Click here to learn more about how Metro is modernizing customer payment options.
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Help Spread the Word about Free Immigration Consults
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Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan Survey
The state of Maryland requests an updated Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan every five years. The PROS Plan is used to develop strategies to deliver the “right parks in the right places,” and bring those places to life through events and public programming. Montgomery Parks' current 2022 draft plan is here. The 2022 PROS Plan will serve as the planning policy for parks and recreation in Montgomery County to the year 2027 and beyond. The below survey includes the list of recommendations from 2022 PROS. Your feedback is greatly appreciated to help us prioritize particular recommendations.
Please select your top priorities that contribute to your ideal high quality of life when dealing with parks and open spaces.
Take the Survey!
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Maryland Durable Medical Equipment Re-Use
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Workforce Recovery Network Request for Proposals
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WorkSource Montgomery (WSM) is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity for non-profit organizations that deliver workforce development services to Montgomery County Residents. Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, WSM has released the Workforce Recovery Network Request for Proposal. The intent of the Workforce Recovery Network funding is to support organizations serving Montgomery County residents that have been negatively impacted by the pandemic. In this first year of funding, WSM has $1 Million available and anticipates award amounts ranging from $25,000 to $100,000. Requests over $100,000 will not be reviewed and scored.
Programs should be focused on strategic workforce initiatives that assist Montgomery County residents who have experienced hardship due to the pandemic. In addition to serving individuals negatively impacted by the pandemic, the programs may also serve individuals who are: low-income, have criminal backgrounds, have disabilities, are homeless, Veterans, English language learners, youth, public assistance recipients, or have barriers to employment. Programs and services targeting individuals in Montgomery County’s high poverty rate census tracks as well as the communities near the pending Purple Metro Line are encouraged.
WSM is seeking proposals that are innovative and creative. Funding requests could include the expansion of traditional services such as recruitment, assessment, case management, training, subsidized employment placements, internships, and supportive services. However, WSM’s funding for this initiative is designed to be flexible and encourage new ways of offering programs and serving individuals in the county. Funds cannot be used for capital improvement or to purchase real estate or large equipment. Programming should fill in gaps brought to light by the pandemic, address issues magnified as a result of the pandemic, and/or expand innovative ideas piloted during the pandemic. WSM is hosting a virtual Bidder’s Conference on February 2, 2022, at 10:00 AM EST. Please plan to attend this event if you have questions about Workforce Recovery Network funding.
Full RFP details related to eligible programming and organizations can be found here: RFP details
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Register Today for the Montgomery County Energy Summit
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The annual Montgomery County Energy Summit is back with cutting-edge education focused on the latest trends in green building, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and related commercial, multifamily, and residential topics.
We are thrilled to announce that our 2022 Summit will be a hybrid in-person and digital event! On April 5, attendees will be able to join us in person at the metro-accessible Silver Spring Civic Building in downtown Silver Spring or online. On April 6, educations sessions will be offered online, followed in the late afternoon by an in-person happy hour. Both days will include breakout education sessions, keynote and plenary speakers, and the opportunity to connect with your colleagues through in-person networking.
All education sessions will be approved for GBCI and AIA continuing education credits. Those attending day one at the Civic Building will also have access to our exhibitor area featuring leading energy-related products and services.
Mark your calendar for April 5th - 6th and register today! Early-bird pricing is available until March 10.
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Montgomery Planning now accepting presentation proposals for Makeover Montgomery 5 conference
The Montgomery County Planning Department is seeking presentation proposals for its conference Makeover Montgomery 5: Resilient Montgomery, co-sponsored with the University of Maryland’s National Center for Smart Growth. This is the fifth time this conference will take place with a focus on seeking regional ideas to help Montgomery County thrive.
The deadline for submitting presentation proposals online is March 15, 2022, at 5 p.m. The selected presenters will take part in sessions to be held on September 23 and 24. Assistance with travel-related expenses may be available for out-of-town speakers.
Submit a proposal for the Makeover Montgomery 5 Conference
“The COVID-19 pandemic, which has changed the way we work, travel, communicate, and more, has shown us that communities need to be ready for anything,” said Montgomery Planning Director Gwen Wright. “We have weaved ideas for resiliency throughout the update to Montgomery County’s General Plan, Thrive Montgomery 2050, and look forward to hearing from others on how they are making their communities more resilient at the Makeover Montgomery 5 conference.”
“Everyone is welcome to submit proposals for the Makeover Montgomery 5 conference, not just planners,” said Gerrit Knaap, Executive Director of the National Center for Smart Growth. “If we want to tackle the issues that can lead to more resilient neighborhoods, we must have a diversity of perspectives from different fields, like economists, architects, and social scientists.”
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New Fire Fit Fire Smart Bootcamp Aims to Empower Middle and High School Girls
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Montgomery County Recreation in collaboration with the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service and The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program with the University of Maryland Extension is introducing a new empowerment boot camp for middle and high school girls called Fire Fit Fire Smart Bootcamp.
The free, six-week program will take place at the Wheaton Community Recreation Center located at 11701 Georgia Ave. from 4 to 6 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday evenings beginning Monday, Jan. 10.
Girls ages 11 to 16 are invited to break down barriers in a fun, safe, interactive, and physically demanding environment. The program introduces challenges to encourage girls to push themselves while being supported by a team.
Participants will develop healthy fitness and nutrition plans and take part in activities that develop strength, build confidence, and improve leadership skills, while increasing knowledge of fire safety and careers in fire service. Fire Fit Fire Smart will outline the path for a career in fire service.
“This program is ideal for any young woman who wants to get healthier and learn more about a career in fire service,” said Recreation Department Director Robin Riley. “The program helps girls set and reach fitness challenges and learn more about how to become healthy through increased physical activity and good nutritional choices.”
To register for the program, visit ActiveMontgomery.
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Free Mediation Training Opportunity for MoCo Residents
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Free COVID Testing For MCPS Students In Their Schools
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is asking all families to consent for their children to receive free COVID-19 testing at their school. Testing helps to keep schools open and students and staff safe.
Two types of tests are available and the one given to students depends on the situation. The tests are fast, safe, and painless. A cotton swab is used on the front part of the nose. Students say it feels like a tickle! The tests are:
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Screening tests for students with no COVID-19 symptoms
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Rapid tests for students with COVID-19 symptoms
Parents/guardians must consent for their children to participate in the COVID-19 screening and rapid tests. They only need to fill out one form to give their permission. The consent form is available in multiple languages and can be filled out online or schools can provide paper copies for families.
The weekly screening tests for a random sample of students with no symptoms can limit the spread of the virus. These tests are especially important for younger students because they are not yet eligible to be vaccinated.
The rapid tests for students with COVID-19 symptoms will help keep students in the classroom. Results are available in 20 minutes and if a student tests negative, classmates can remain in school and will not have to quarantine.
The tests are an important part of MCPS' plan to keep students learning in school, five days a week, and to keep our community safe. Learn more about what MCPS is doing and how everyone can do their part to stay safe.
Testing consent forms:
Pruebas de covid gratuitas para estudiantes de MCPS en las escuelas
Las Escuelas Públicas del Condado de Montgomery (MCPS) está pidiendo a todas las familias que den su consentimiento para que sus hijos reciban pruebas gratuitas para COVID-19 en sus escuelas. Las pruebas ayudan a mantener las escuelas abiertas y a los estudiantes y al personal seguros.
Hay dos tipos de pruebas disponibles y el tipo que se utiliza con los estudiantes depende de la situación. Las pruebas son gratuitas, seguras y sin dolor. Se usa un hisopo de algodón (similar a un cotonete) en la parte delantera de la fosa nasal. ¡Los estudiantes dicen que solo sienten un cosquilleo! Las pruebas son:
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Pruebas de evaluación para estudiantes sin síntomas de COVID-19
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Pruebas rápidas para estudiantes con síntomas de COVID-19
Los padres/guardianes deben dar su consentimiento para la participación de sus hijos en las pruebas de evaluación y las pruebas rápidas de COVID-19. Solamente necesitan llenar un formulario para dar su permiso para ambas pruebas. El formulario de consentimiento está disponible en varios idiomas y puede ser llenado en línea o las escuelas pueden proporcionar copias en papel para las familias.
Las pruebas de evaluación semanales de una muestra aleatoria de estudiantes sin síntomas pueden limitar la propagación del virus. Estas pruebas son especialmente importantes para los estudiantes menores, puesto que aún no son elegibles para ser vacunados.
Las pruebas rápidas para estudiantes con síntomas de COVID-19 ayudarán a mantener a los estudiantes en el salón de clase. Los resultados están disponibles en 20 minutos, y si el estudiante da negativo, los compañeros de clase pueden permanecer en la escuela y no tienen que ponerse en cuarentena.
Estas pruebas forman una parte importante del plan de MCPS para mantener a los estudiantes aprendiendo en las escuelas, los cinco días a la semana, y mantener segura a nuestra comunidad. Conozca más sobre lo que MCPS está haciendo y cómo todos pueden hacer su parte para mantenerse seguros.
Formularios de consentimiento para las pruebas:
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Por Nuestra Salud y Bienestar weekly testing schedule for next week
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To view a summarized list of Next Week's Testing Schedule, in English and Spanish.
Events may change, call ahead to confirm.
Check out some videos from Mary's Center explaining why getting vaccinated is so important!
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Montgomery County Press Releases
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