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 continues to spotlight the individuals and organizations that helped the County through the COVID-19 health crisis. In his weekly message, he also provides an update on the impact of COVID-19 and how it adversely impacted minority populations in Montgomery County. He advises uninsured individuals that they must quickly take action and urges anyone interested in law enforcement to consider applying for Montgomery’s outstanding police force. He also takes pride that the County continues to be named among the best places to live.
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Complete the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District Community Survey
The Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District is seeking community input on the priorities residents have regarding the arts, placemaking, and different elements of maintaining an Arts and Entertainment District. The community survey can be found here.
Silver Spring is undergoing the redesignation process for an Arts and Entertainment District by the State of Maryland. Every 10 years, the State requires a new application be submitted for review to be redesignated. This year, both the Silver Spring and the Bethesda Urban Partnership are submitting applications to continue their work making the arts a viable and exciting part of Montgomery County.
Montgomery County currently has three Arts and Entertainment Districts: Silver Spring, Bethesda, and Wheaton. Each has its own unique character reflecting the priorities of the arts organizations, artists, and public who live and/or work within each district. For example, when Wheaton was redesignated as a district in 2016, the community survey found 85 percent of respondents indicated they would like the Wheaton Arts and Entertainment District to celebrate the ethnic and cultural diversity of Wheaton and 82 percent said they wanted to support the traditional arts. Programming and planning in the Wheaton Arts and Entertainment District since redesignation has reflected a commitment to the cultural diversity of Wheaton.
Community members in Silver Spring can help shape and expand upon the aspects that make the Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District unique. Silver Spring features a variety of performance, film, and entertainment venues. Prior to the COVID-19 health crisis, it hosted more than 500 public events each year. Many of these events and activities are expected to return to the district.
Residents who have additional ideas that could contribute to the arts and entertainment can complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BQ8R3QK.
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SILVER SPRING REGION OPPORTUNITIES
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Elrich Seeks Applicants for Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board
County Executive Marc Elrich is seeking applicants to fill six vacancies on the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board. Residents of the east side of the Regional Area (communities along New Hampshire Avenue, south of the beltway) residents of Long Branch, and renters are particularly encouraged to apply. Three incumbents are eligible to apply for reappointment.
To view the County regional service area in which you reside or work, please click on the map link and enter your address in the box that says “Enter a Mont. Co. address.” The region in which you reside or work will appear on the map. http://mcgov-gis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=0bc839f5e691497aa77da21c1495b669
The Board is composed of 18 residents and/or business persons of communities in the Silver Spring/Takoma Park area. Applicants must work or reside within the Silver Spring Regional Center's service boundaries. The boundaries include: 495 south of the Beltway (exception: all Four Corners neighborhoods north of the Beltway are included); Rock Creek park to the west; the District of Columbia line to the south; and the Prince George’s County line to the east.
The Board acts as a liaison between the Silver Spring communities and the County government by identifying neighborhood and business concerns and making recommendations to County officials. It advises the Silver Spring Regional Services Center Director on area needs and priorities such as economic development, transportation, housing, education, human services, and redevelopment.
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 second Monday evening of each month. Members are also asked to serve on a subcommittee, which meet the fourth Monday evening of each month. When in-person meetings resume in the future, the Board will meet in at the Silver Spring Civic Building.
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. The deadline for application is April 13, 2022.
Click here to apply.
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SPARKLE: Senior Programs Aimed at Re-Kindling Lifetime Engagement
Building the Future Food System with Hugo Morgollon of Fresh Farm
Join us Wednesday, April 13th at 2pm for our next SPARKLE as we celebrate Earth Day: Building the Future Food System with Hugo Morgollon of Fresh Farm.
There’s a story behind our local Silver Spring Farmers Market that goes far deeper than a convenient place to pick up homegrown strawberries. Hugo Mogollon, executive director of FRESHFARM, the non-profit organization behind the market, will discuss the role of local agriculture in terms of supporting biodiversity, sustainability, and food justice and access. Come celebrate this unique take on Earth Day!
Presented by SSTCi in collaboration with the Silver Spring Village, the SPARKLE Program is a monthly community outreach series in the Silver Spring Civic Building that enriches the lives of seniors in our area. SPARKLE stands for Senior Programs Aimed at Re-Kindling Lifetime Engagement. *Events are now held virtually at this time.
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Acoustics & Ales
April 29 @ 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
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Cool down with a cold one at Montgomery Parks’ Acoustic and Ales outdoor happy hour series! Enjoy a night of live music, locally crafted beer, and food.
Adults and children welcome! Beer, food, and non alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Registration is not required. Parking availability may vary based on location, so please use the links provided to the right of the page to map out your arrival! Parks are accessible by public transportation. Please see below for additional information.
Event Dates, Times, and Locations:
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MCEDC RECEIVES $300,000 TO ENHANCE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN DOWNTOWN SILVER SPRING
Congressionally directed federal funding secured by U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin for the Arts & Brewery District
As part of the Fiscal Year 2022 federal budget agreement signed into law last week by President Biden, Downtown Silver Spring will be the beneficiary of a $300,000 congressional appropriation for economic development to support the Arts & Brewery District. The funding will help strengthen the economy for one of Montgomery County’s critical business centers.
The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will receive and administer the funding which will continue the work in progress to invigorate the Downtown Silver Spring Arts & Brewery District. The improvements will encourage businesses and visitors to Downtown Silver Spring, a welcoming urban district and home to a thriving business and entertainment community; breweries including Denizens Brewing Co., Silver Branch Brewing, Astro Lab Brewing; and almost 160 restaurants, delis and bars. Silver Spring is a designated Arts & Entertainment District by the State of Maryland.
To support the Arts & Brewery District, MCEDC is working through the Montgomery County Commerce Cabinet in partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT), the Silver Spring Urban District and the Silver Spring Regional Services Center, among other community stakeholders. The Montgomery County Commerce Cabinet, chaired by MCEDC, is a 14-member entity of executive agencies and organizations with a significant economic development mission.
As part of its Downtown Silver Spring initiative, the Commerce Cabinet coordinated the first round of funding for the Arts & Brewery District with $100,000 from MCDOT in Fall 2021. Congressman Raskin’s $300,000 federal appropriation represents a second round of funding for potential revitalization efforts such as:
Infrastructure upgrades to include additional streetscape, pedestrian-friendly walkways, lighting and signage to guide visitors along the public art walk and between the breweries;
Job training partnerships with Montgomery College to train for highly skilled positions with breweries such as brew masters, facilities and equipment maintenance, and other specialized skill needs;
Pop up space for local farm breweries during events and weekends which could include brewers in the Montgomery County Agricultural Reserve and others outside of the downtown Silver Spring area;
Murals and other public art displays; and
Marketing and promotion of the Downtown Silver Spring Arts & Brewery District to attract residents and visitors to the area.
“Dynamic federal-local partnerships help our Eighth District community thrive,” said Congressman Jamie Raskin. “I’m elated that President Biden has signed into law funding to support Downtown Silver Spring’s Arts & Brewery District, one of Montgomery County’s exciting business centers. This project will create economic development opportunities and invigorate Silver Spring, and I’m proud to see the project through as your congressional representative.”
“We appreciate Congressman Jamie Raskin’s assistance to provide the Silver Spring community with this significant appropriation,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “The Downtown Silver Spring Arts & Brewery District is a game changer for our County’s economy and re-establishes this community as a destination location for dining, entertainment, and good times. Representative Raskin is a national hero for his courage and leadership on Capitol Hill, but his leadership, advocacy and character is not new to the residents of Montgomery County. Throughout his career in public service, he has always and continues to demonstrate exemplary constituent service and support of our residents.”
“Over the next few months, MCEDC will convene community stakeholders to execute revitalization efforts for the Arts & Brewery District. We look forward to working with the many partners who are committed to Downtown Silver Spring’s continued prosperity,” said Benjamin H. Wu, MCEDC President and CEO. “We are grateful to Congressman Raskin for championing this important economic development project.”
“Visitors and residents are drawn to Silver Spring’s unique mix of diverse restaurants, award-winning breweries, walkability, vibrant shopping and thriving cultural arts experiences. With its close proximity to Washington, D.C. and Red Line Metro access, Silver Spring is well-positioned to grow its local tourism economy through the creation of a new Arts & Brewery District,” Visit Montgomery President & CEO Kelly Groff said. “Visit Montgomery is looking forward to collaborating with MCEDC and our community partners on this initiative.”
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Montgomery County will Keep Streeteries in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton Open at Least Through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5
Streeteries were established as part of the Montgomery County Department of Transportation’s (MCDOT) Shared Streets program, allowing restaurants to establish outdoor dining areas on streets that have been closed to vehicular traffic. First created in response to the COVID-19 health crisis, the pedestrian-friendly program will be extended throughout the summer and at least through Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5.
The County’s Streeteries are located in the downtown areas of Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton.
“Our Streeteries program has helped reduce the transmission of the COVID virus while helping keep our restaurants in business and workers employed,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. "Streeteries have provided a safe gathering place for residents throughout a challenging time. These are family-friendly spaces that encourage community gathering and create enticing destinations throughout the County. As the weather begins to warm up over the next several weeks, I encourage all residents to enjoy these outdoor dining experiences and continue to support our local businesses.”
The program has been popular with businesses and residents. MCDOT assesses the road closures from an engineering perspective and is responsible for determining allowable uses of the roadway. The County’s Regional Services Centers have been collecting feedback on the program.
Residents who wish to provide their thoughts on a local Shared Streets program can call 311 and ask to be connected to the Regional Services Office for their area.
“Streeteries have become a model for street use as a community gathering place,” said MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “In addition to being a popular destination for outdoor dining, Streeteries have contributed to people’s health and well-being by supporting walking, biking and spending time outdoors. These spaces have positively impacted the vibrancy of their communities. We are happy to extend this initiative throughout the summer.”
Coordination of the Streeteries involved multiple County departments, including Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and the Department of Permitting Services (DPS).
“Streeteries have a variety of models which meet the needs of each community,” said ABS Director Kathie Durbin. “For instance, some have extended cafes with alcohol service within that area and others allow open seating with a designated area to eat and drink. Overall, the Streeteries have been very positive. Businesses have been doing a good job developing alcohol policies to keep customers safe, we have not experienced a lot of violations.”
The initial concept was aimed to bring residents together in a safe outdoor environment while supporting County businesses that have struggled from the economic impacts of COVID-19. County departments have demonstrated flexibility and continue to assist businesses with long-term solutions to continue outdoor dining.
“Streeteries differ from the traditional ‘shared streets’ in that they have a hospitality focus and work to support multiple businesses,” said DPS Director Mitra Pedoeem. “Hospitality businesses located outside of the designated Streeteries can extend their service with an outdoor cafe through permitting. This will ensure overall public safety now that our rights-of-way are returning to normal use.”
For more information on MCDOT’s Shared Streets program and a listing of locations visit montgomerycountymd.gov/dot/sharedstreets. Follow @MCDOTNow on Twitter, and subscribe to MCDOT’s Go Montgomery! biweekly newsletter.
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2022 Veterans Plaza Festival Guide!
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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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Spanish in our Community Class
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Click the flyer above for the application form!
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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. Spring 2022 Schedule
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COUNTY WIDE OPPORTUNITIES
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Click the calendar above for more information
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Montgomery County to Recognize Two Years of COVID-19 Response Efforts Throughout the Month of March
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During the month of March, as Montgomery County marks two years of fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, the County will highlight the sacrifices, dedication, and efforts of individuals and partners in the community as we continue to move forward.
“Throughout March, we will take time to remember the hundreds of Montgomery County residents who have died from COVID-19 and reflect on the challenges we, as a community, have faced these last two years,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “I want to thank the many individuals and organizations who have worked extremely hard to provide resources and keep Montgomery County residents safe as we have fought this pandemic. Due to the incredible work of our government employees, volunteers, residents, and partners, Montgomery County has one of the highest vaccination rates and lowest case rates of large jurisdictions across the country. Most importantly, we are saving lives as our County’s death rate from COVID-19 is nearly 1/3 lower than the national average. We will continue to use what we have learned over the last two years in our ongoing response, monitoring the situation every day and continuing to do everything we can to reduce risk, including encouraging vaccinations and getting boosted.”
On March 5, 2020, the first three cases of COVID-19 in the State of Maryland were identified in Montgomery County. As the fight against the virus continues, the County will take time to remember those who have died from COVID-19 and recognize the many residents and organizations who helped save lives over the last two years. While the response to the pandemic is not over, this month-long event reflects on where things stand today as we look back on these last two years and thank those who have helped get to where we are now. Each week, during the remembrance, will focus on a different theme, including:
Food Security Week (March 27 – April 2) – The County will highlight individuals and organizations that have provided necessities and other resources to people and families in need throughout the pandemic.
For more info click here.
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El Condado de Montgomery reconocerá los dos años de esfuerzos de respuesta al COVID-19 durante todo el mes de marzo
Durante el mes de marzo, cuando el Condado de Montgomery cumpla dos años de lucha contra la pandemia de COVID-19, el Condado destacará los sacrificios, la dedicación, y los esfuerzos de las personas y los socios comunitarios a medida que avanzamos.
“A lo largo de marzo, nos tomaremos el tiempo para recordar a los cientos de residentes del condado de Montgomery que han muerto a causa del COVID-19 y reflexionar sobre los desafíos que hemos enfrentado como comunidad en los últimos dos años,” dijo el Ejecutivo del Condado de Montgomery, Marc Elrich. “Quiero agradecer a las muchas personas y organizaciones que han trabajado arduamente para proporcionar recursos y mantener seguros a los residentes del condado de Montgomery mientras luchamos contra esta pandemia. Debido al increíble trabajo de nuestros empleados gubernamentales, voluntarios, residentes y asociados, el condado de Montgomery tiene una de las tasas de vacunación más altas y las tasas de casos más bajas de las grandes jurisdicciones de todo el país. Lo que es más importante, estamos salvando vidas ya que la tasa de mortalidad de nuestro condado por COVID-19 es casi un tercio más baja que el promedio nacional. Continuaremos utilizando lo que hemos aprendido en los últimos dos años en nuestra respuesta continua, monitoreando la situación todos los días y continuando haciendo todo lo posible para reducir el riesgo, incluido alentar la vacunación y recibir la vacuna de refuerzo.”
El 5 de marzo de 2020, se identificaron los primeros tres casos de COVID-19 en el estado de Maryland en el condado de Montgomery. A medida que continúa la lucha contra el virus, el condado se tomará un tiempo para recordar a las personas que han muerto a causa del COVID-19 y reconocer a los residentes y organizaciones que ayudaron a salvar vidas en los últimos dos años. Si bien la respuesta a la pandemia no ha terminado, este evento de un mes de duración refleja cómo están las cosas hoy al mirar hacia atrás en estos últimos dos años y agradecer a quienes han ayudado a llegar a donde estamos ahora. Cada semana, durante el recuerdo, se centrará en un tema diferente, que incluye:
Semana de los Trabajadores Esenciales (del 20 al 26 de marzo): el condado honrará a las personas que brindaron servicios y apoyo importantes durante la pandemia.
Semana de la Seguridad Alimentaria (del 27 de marzo al 2 de abril): el condado destacará a las personas y organizaciones que han proporcionado necesidades y otros recursos a las personas y familias necesitadas durante la pandemia.
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Celebrate Earth Month With Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, is celebrating Earth Month with a wide variety of special events and activities throughout the month of April, including the annual GreenFest which takes place at Brookside Gardens. Earth Month is the expansion of Earth Day, which was established on April 22, 1970, to demonstrate support for environmental protection. From park cleanups to plant sales to hikes, there are many ways to participate.
Montgomery County GreenFest: Saturday, April 23, 2022, 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Greenfest is Montgomery County’s premier environmental festival and is a chance for residents, businesses, and nonprofits to share ideas, learn together, and have fun! The free event, held at Brookside Gardens, features a wide array of activities and programs including kid’s tree climbing, green arts and crafts fair, children’s yoga, an electric vehicle and car show, and so much more. Visit www.Montgomerycountygreenfest.org for all the details.
Montgomery Parks Volunteer Cleanups: Throughout the month of April
Host your own cleanup at a park or join an organized group cleanup to celebrate Earth Month. Registration is easy and Montgomery Parks provides bags and gloves. Participants should bring water to drink, and wear clothes that can get dirty and shoes that can get wet. Volunteers younger than age 14 must participate with a registered adult. All volunteers must be fully vaccinated and provide their COVID-19 vaccination record to participate. Learn more about all park volunteer opportunities.
Online Native Plant Sales
Montgomery Parks is hosting online native plant sales at three locations in April. Growing native plants encourages beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife in your community. Proceeds from the plant sales benefit Montgomery Parks’ nature centers.
iNaturalist Hike: Sunday, April 10, 2022, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Become a community scientist via this scavenger hunt using the iNaturalist app. The program takes place at Locust Grove Nature Center. Participants will practice finding creatures of all shapes and sizes and taking photos with cell phones. An adult must download the free iNaturalist app. Register on ActiveMontgomery.com, search activities using iNaturalist.
City Nature Challenge: Photograph Nature: April 29 – May 2, Identify Nature: May 3 – 9
Montgomery Parks is participating in the international City Nature Challenge in which individuals are encouraged to photograph nature and share photos on the iNaturalist app between April 29 – May 2. Participants will then help identify nature species from May 3 – 8. Cities around the world compete to see who can make the most observations of nature, find the most species and engage the most people. To register contact mcp-locustgrove@montgomeryparks.org. Learn more about the challenge at citynaturechallengedc.org.
Visit MontgomeryParks.org for a complete list of special events and programs.
About Montgomery Parks
Montgomery Parks manages more than 37,000 acres of parkland, consisting of 421 parks. Montgomery Parks is a department of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), a bi-county agency established in 1927 to steward public land. M-NCPPC has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services and is regarded as a national model by other parks systems. www.MontgomeryParks.org
Accessibility
Montgomery Parks, part of The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, encourages and supports the participation of individuals with disabilities. Please contact the Program Access Office at 301-495-2581 (Voice/TTY), MD Relay 7-1-1 or 800-552-7724 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org to request a disability modification. Visit www.MontgomeryParks.org/access for more information.
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MCAEL Seeking Volunteers for Grants Panel
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Commission for Women Celebrating Women’s History Month with ‘Girl Power Contest’
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The Montgomery County Commission for Women is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2022. In recognition of March as Women’s History Month, the Commission for Women invites residents to participate in its fifth annual “Girl Power Contest.” County residents, ages 5 and up, are encouraged to submit a short story, poem, drawing, or medium of their choice that addresses two key questions.
The following questions are the themes for this year’s Girl Power Contest: What do you see as the three biggest accomplishments women have achieved over the last 50 years? What three accomplishments do you believe would make the biggest impact over the next 50 years?
“The contributions of Montgomery County women to our County, State and nation’s history needs to be celebrated,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “As we honor the women who have made history, we must also continue to build a culture of empowerment and opportunity for the next generation of female leaders. I encourage everyone to enter the Montgomery County Commission for Women’s ‘Girl Power Contest’ so they can help highlight the great work done by women and the impact they have in our County. For the last half-century, the Montgomery County Commission for Women has helped our women in our County by establishing networks, mentors, and resources enabling their success. I am grateful to the Commission for all the work it has done and continues to do to ensure that ‘her-story’ is told in Montgomery County.”
Entries typically are short stories, poems, and drawings. However, creativity is encouraged, and alternative creative expressive submissions are welcomed. Entries will be judged on creativity and content. Winning entries will be selected in four categories: elementary school, middle school, high school, and adult. Submissions will be accepted through midnight on March 31 and are limited to one per person. Written entries should be no more than 500 words. Entries should include full name, age, grade and school (if applicable), telephone number, and email address. Winners will be announced in April. All contest winners will be featured in Commission for Women social media and receive a swag bag.
Entries for the 2022 Girl Power Contest should be submitted online. Entries submitted by minors must include written permission from a parent or guardian and be the minor’s own work. All entries become the property of the Montgomery County Commission for Women and may be used for publicity purposes. The contest is sponsored by the Montgomery County Commission for Women, Montgomery County Public Libraries and Friends of the Library, Montgomery County. For more information, call 240-777-8300 or visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw.
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Pedestrian Safety Art Contest
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MCDOT-sponsored Adult Bike and E-scooter classes information
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MCPS Antiracist System Audit
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Recycle with Pepco in March
Pepco is offering customers $75 for a limited time for recycling their old working refrigerators and freezers. Customers must schedule their pick-up between March 1 and March 31 and have their appliance picked up by April 14 to qualify. Customers can also recycle a dehumidifier or room A/C at the same time to receive an additional $25. Pepco’s Appliance Recycling program typically offers customers $50 for recycling their old appliances.
The Appliance Recycling program aims to save customers energy and money by offering a convenient, environmentally friendly option for getting rid of old appliances. Customers can also select the pick-up option most comfortable for them. Pepco offers in-home no-contact pick-ups, in which contractors pick up the appliance while maintaining a safe distance of six feet from the homeowners, or outside no-contact pick-ups, in which contractors pick up an appliance from a designated garage or outbuilding.
Interested customers can schedule their pick-up or find out more by visiting www.pepco.com/ApplianceRecycling or calling 877-743-3117.
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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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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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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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Help Spread the Word about Free Immigration Consults
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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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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
for the latest news
PRESS RELEASE CENTERS
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