I watched the debates between Bob Ehrlich and Martin O'Malley and noticed how O'Malley kept pandering to various groups. Now Ehrlich is pandering to women voters.
October 16, 2010
Police identify woman killed on I-270 in Gaithersburg
Maryland State Police have confirmed the identity of the woman who was killed Monday night after being hit by a Cadillac and a bus as she walked in the right lane of Interstate 270 near Gaithersburg. Police still do not know why Fort Washington resident Natasha Nicole Tobin, 25, was in the area, or why she had chosen to walk in the roadway. Tobin died at the scene.
"She didn't appear to be in any kind of distress or anything like that," said Maryland State Police Sgt. Michael Brennan.
Police are still trying to create a timeline to establish Tobin's reason for walking on the highway, Brennan said. There were no disabled vehicles in the area, and no witnesses had called before the accident to report a pedestrian on the highway. The full results of an autopsy by the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are expected in two weeks. Multiple traumatic injuries caused Tobin's death, Brennan said.
The Cadillac was driven by Quinton Jamal Isiah A. Baker of Gaithersburg. The Metro bus was driven by Terry Robin Jackson of Jefferson, W.Va. Both men stayed at the scene after the collisions. Neither is charged with any crime or under investigation. Police do not believe alcohol or speed were factors. SOURCE: Gazette
"She didn't appear to be in any kind of distress or anything like that," said Maryland State Police Sgt. Michael Brennan.
Police are still trying to create a timeline to establish Tobin's reason for walking on the highway, Brennan said. There were no disabled vehicles in the area, and no witnesses had called before the accident to report a pedestrian on the highway. The full results of an autopsy by the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner are expected in two weeks. Multiple traumatic injuries caused Tobin's death, Brennan said.
The Cadillac was driven by Quinton Jamal Isiah A. Baker of Gaithersburg. The Metro bus was driven by Terry Robin Jackson of Jefferson, W.Va. Both men stayed at the scene after the collisions. Neither is charged with any crime or under investigation. Police do not believe alcohol or speed were factors. SOURCE: Gazette
Values Voters Rally for Montgomery County, Maryland conservatives!
Friday, October 22, 2010 from 8:00pm – 11:30pm. Values Voters Rally for Montgomery County, Maryland conservatives! Come out and meet some of our very best candidates for local/state/federal office here in Montgomery County. Listen to short speeches by select pro-life, pro-gun candidates on the 2010 general election ballot, and dance the night away to live, classic rock music performances by friends of Gus Alzona’s Trademark
Mike Philips, Republican nominee for U.S. House of Representatives (MD Congressional Dist. 8) will be our main speaker. Additional candidate speakers to be added as confirmed. Campaigns are encouraged to invite their volunteers, supporters and the general public to attend this rally as well.
Coat of Arms Restaurant. 10321 Westlake Drive. Bethesda, MD 20817. 301-469-8808
No cover charge. Happy Hour prices on select drink and menu items (ask your server for details). Please RSVP to Gus Alzona at 202-288-8011 or email AugustusAlzona@gmail.com. For more information about the band go to: www.TrademarkBand.org
Mike Philips, Republican nominee for U.S. House of Representatives (MD Congressional Dist. 8) will be our main speaker. Additional candidate speakers to be added as confirmed. Campaigns are encouraged to invite their volunteers, supporters and the general public to attend this rally as well.
Coat of Arms Restaurant. 10321 Westlake Drive. Bethesda, MD 20817. 301-469-8808
No cover charge. Happy Hour prices on select drink and menu items (ask your server for details). Please RSVP to Gus Alzona at 202-288-8011 or email AugustusAlzona@gmail.com. For more information about the band go to: www.TrademarkBand.org
Man throws brick through window; beaten to death; then defenders charged with murder
WASHINGTON - A nightclub owner and four employees have been charged with beating a man to death after he threw a brick through the club's window, in a case of what D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier called "vigilante justice."
Ali Ahmed Mohammed, 27, of Silver Spring, Md., was denied entry to the DC9 nightclub along the U Street corridor around 2:30 a.m. Friday, Lanier said, but he returned to throw a brick through the window. That's when the club owner and four employees chased Mohammed down the block, then tackled and beat him, police said. When officers arrived, all five men were still on the scene and Mohammed was in critical condition, Lanier said. He was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
"In my opinion you talk about a beating like this as a result of property damage, someone has lost his life in a savage beating in what appears to be vigilante justice, it's ridiculous," Lanier said.
Police say club owner William Spieler, 46, has been charged with felony murder. Employee Evan Preller, 28 has been charged with second-degree murder. Charges are still pending for three other employees: Reginald Phillips, 22; Arthur Zaloca, 25; and Darryl Carter Jr., 23. Zaloca is from Silver Spring, and the other men live in Washington. Lanier said she would close the club Friday. Emergency powers allow her to close establishments for 96 hours. The club has canceled or moved acts that were scheduled to perform over the next few days.
"DC9 is deeply saddened by the tragic events that have occurred," a note posted on the club's website Friday reads. "Our condolences go out to the family of the victim. ... We very much look forward to our day in court."
Other representatives of the club declined further comment. SOURCE: FOX
Ali Ahmed Mohammed, 27, of Silver Spring, Md., was denied entry to the DC9 nightclub along the U Street corridor around 2:30 a.m. Friday, Lanier said, but he returned to throw a brick through the window. That's when the club owner and four employees chased Mohammed down the block, then tackled and beat him, police said. When officers arrived, all five men were still on the scene and Mohammed was in critical condition, Lanier said. He was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
"In my opinion you talk about a beating like this as a result of property damage, someone has lost his life in a savage beating in what appears to be vigilante justice, it's ridiculous," Lanier said.
Police say club owner William Spieler, 46, has been charged with felony murder. Employee Evan Preller, 28 has been charged with second-degree murder. Charges are still pending for three other employees: Reginald Phillips, 22; Arthur Zaloca, 25; and Darryl Carter Jr., 23. Zaloca is from Silver Spring, and the other men live in Washington. Lanier said she would close the club Friday. Emergency powers allow her to close establishments for 96 hours. The club has canceled or moved acts that were scheduled to perform over the next few days.
"DC9 is deeply saddened by the tragic events that have occurred," a note posted on the club's website Friday reads. "Our condolences go out to the family of the victim. ... We very much look forward to our day in court."
Other representatives of the club declined further comment. SOURCE: FOX
October 15, 2010
Fall 2010 Restaurant Week
Friends — we are pleased to bring you details on the Fall 2010 Bethesda Restaurant Week:
“Monday October 18th – 24th. Two course lunches: $15 | three course dinners: $30. Participating Restaurants: American Tap Room, CafĂ© Deluxe, Jaleo, Lebanese Taverna, Parker’s American Bistro, Raku, Assaggi Mozzarella Bar, Mon Ami Gabi, Redwood, Le Pain Quotidien, Tara Thai, Taylor Gourmet.”
“Monday October 18th – 24th. Two course lunches: $15 | three course dinners: $30. Participating Restaurants: American Tap Room, CafĂ© Deluxe, Jaleo, Lebanese Taverna, Parker’s American Bistro, Raku, Assaggi Mozzarella Bar, Mon Ami Gabi, Redwood, Le Pain Quotidien, Tara Thai, Taylor Gourmet.”
Obama's (Muslim) half brother in Kenya says he married teen as 3rd wife!
NAIROBI, Kenya – President Barack Obama's polygamist half brother in Kenya has married a woman who is more than 30 years younger than him. The 19-year-old's mother told The Associated Press on Friday she is furious that her daughter quit high school and married the 52-year-old. Mary Aoko Ouma says her daughter tried to marry Malik Obama two years ago, but the mother says she wouldn't give permission. Malik Obama, who is Muslim, has two other wives. Polygamy is legal in Kenya if it falls under religious or cultural traditions. In an interview broadcast by Kenya's NTV that was filmed without his knowledge, Malik Obama says he married the 19-year-old but didn't say when. SOURCE: Yahoo
Montgomery County news blurbs
Pedestrians Urged to “Walk Safe;” Drivers Asked to Look Out for Pedestrians - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6982
Friends of the Library Announces 23rd Literary Luncheon Lecture Series - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6988
Critically Missing Woman from Wheaton - http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=39490
Pistons and Pancakes II – Sunday, October 17 – Clara Barton Community Center - The first "Pistons & Pancakes" in September was so well received that it's going to be repeated! Come to the Clara Barton Community Center, 7425 MacArthur Blvd., Cabin John, on Sunday, October 17, 9 a.m. to noon (rain or shine). Again, they'll be offering pancakes at $3 per serving (plus coffee, $2, and juice, $1), as well as a show of interesting and unique cars and motorcycles, antique and newer. (If you have a special car or motorcycle you want to display, call Bruce Wilmarth at 301-229-8528 or email him at bwilmarth@washingtonfirstbank.com ) "Pistons & Pancakes II" is sponsored by the nonprofit Friends of the Clara Barton Community Center. For more information, call the community center (a facility of the Montgomery County Recreation Department) at 301-229-0010.
Leading a Changing Workforce - Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, National Capital Area Chapter, November 9, 2010, 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 am, 8500 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817 -Opening Speaker - Steven A. Silverman, Director, Montgomery County Department of Economic Development This workshop (2.5 HRCI credits) for human resource professionals, benefits managers, wellness coordinators, and business leaders from across the metro Washington region will focus on the impact that brain health has in the workplace, as well as the implications of employee stress, particularly among working family caregivers. To learn more go to: http://www.alz.org/nca/in_my_community_19874.asp
Join Montgomery County Fire Rescue Chief Bowers on Blog Talk Internet Radio Station at 4:00 pm – Chief Bowers will be talking about the Ambulance Reimbursement Fee - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mcfrs
English Conversation – Every Wednesday, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, English Conversation sessions are held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD.
Six Residents to be Inducted into Human Rights Hall of Fame by Office of Human Rights - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6989
Legget to Host Ninth Annual County Executive Awards Program to Honor Excellence in the Arts and Humanities – Monday, October 18, 7:00 p.m., The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will host the ninth annual County Executive’s Excellence in the Arts and Humanities Awards program. Awards will be presented in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement, Community, Education, Emerging Leader, Outstanding Artist/Scholar and Volunteer. Additionally, a special Lifetime Impact Award will be presented to Carol Trawick. The event is free and open to the public. In addition to the presentation of awards, the evening will include performances and entertainment by local arts organizations and a dessert reception.
Friends of the Library Announces 23rd Literary Luncheon Lecture Series - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6988
Critically Missing Woman from Wheaton - http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=39490
Pistons and Pancakes II – Sunday, October 17 – Clara Barton Community Center - The first "Pistons & Pancakes" in September was so well received that it's going to be repeated! Come to the Clara Barton Community Center, 7425 MacArthur Blvd., Cabin John, on Sunday, October 17, 9 a.m. to noon (rain or shine). Again, they'll be offering pancakes at $3 per serving (plus coffee, $2, and juice, $1), as well as a show of interesting and unique cars and motorcycles, antique and newer. (If you have a special car or motorcycle you want to display, call Bruce Wilmarth at 301-229-8528 or email him at bwilmarth@washingtonfirstbank.com ) "Pistons & Pancakes II" is sponsored by the nonprofit Friends of the Clara Barton Community Center. For more information, call the community center (a facility of the Montgomery County Recreation Department) at 301-229-0010.
Leading a Changing Workforce - Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, National Capital Area Chapter, November 9, 2010, 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 am, 8500 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817 -Opening Speaker - Steven A. Silverman, Director, Montgomery County Department of Economic Development This workshop (2.5 HRCI credits) for human resource professionals, benefits managers, wellness coordinators, and business leaders from across the metro Washington region will focus on the impact that brain health has in the workplace, as well as the implications of employee stress, particularly among working family caregivers. To learn more go to: http://www.alz.org/nca/in_my_community_19874.asp
Join Montgomery County Fire Rescue Chief Bowers on Blog Talk Internet Radio Station at 4:00 pm – Chief Bowers will be talking about the Ambulance Reimbursement Fee - http://www.blogtalkradio.com/mcfrs
English Conversation – Every Wednesday, from 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, English Conversation sessions are held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD.
Six Residents to be Inducted into Human Rights Hall of Fame by Office of Human Rights - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6989
Legget to Host Ninth Annual County Executive Awards Program to Honor Excellence in the Arts and Humanities – Monday, October 18, 7:00 p.m., The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda. Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett will host the ninth annual County Executive’s Excellence in the Arts and Humanities Awards program. Awards will be presented in the following categories: Lifetime Achievement, Community, Education, Emerging Leader, Outstanding Artist/Scholar and Volunteer. Additionally, a special Lifetime Impact Award will be presented to Carol Trawick. The event is free and open to the public. In addition to the presentation of awards, the evening will include performances and entertainment by local arts organizations and a dessert reception.
Town Hall Meeting on Walter Reed Redevelopment
WASHINGTON - D.C. officials are unveiling plans Thursday to redevelop the Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the Army's flagship hospital. Next year, patients and staff will be moved to either the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda or a new hospital under construction at Fort Belvoir in Fairfax County. That will leave more than 100 acres of land and dozens of buildings ripe for development. The District's Office of Planning and Economic Development is rolling out proposals for new housing, retail, parks and schools in a town hall meeting at Delano Hall on the grounds of Walter Reed at 7 p.m. Thursday. The proposals include shops, residential housing, a Chinese language school, a health clinic, facilities for the homeless and lots of open park space. SOURCE:FOX
Bethesda to replace 2006 (old-fashioned) trolley cars
Aidan Lapierre, 14, and his friends enjoy riding around on the Bethesda Circulator with no destination in mind.
"I get on because it looks like a trolley," the Bethesda teen said. "It's more fun,"
Aidan usually has to go straight home after school, but on Fridays, he and his friends like to hop on the trolley car that provides free rides and travel around until they come across an appealing activity. But next summer, Aidan, his friends and the 1,000 or so other daily passengers of the Bethesda Circulator will be picked up by a new vehicle.
Officials will replace Bethesda's three trolleys -- which are designed to look old-fashioned, although they were built in 2006 -- by high-velocity buses that look more like the District's sleek circulators than something out a San Franciscan memory. Officials said it is necessary to provide a circulator service that is more reliable than the trolleys, which break down often and are difficult to repair, said Stephanie Coppula, a spokeswoman for the Bethesda Urban Partnership. SOURCE: Washington Post
Clarksburg High walkers taking dangerous path
Shelly Malik drives her daughter, Shimona, 14, to Clarksburg High School in the morning, but Shimona walks home along Frederick Road, a state road without a sidewalk that many consider unsafe for walking.
"To be honest, it is so dangerous," Malik said. "I've seen so many kids walking in the road."
The Maliks live in Clarksburg Highlands, less than 2 miles from the school. Montgomery County Public Schools does not provide bus transportation to high school students living within 2 miles of a high school, as long as students have a safe path to the school.
The traffic light in front of the school, at Frederick Road and Foreman Boulevard, offers a safe crossing of Frederick Road, said Alan Heard, communications manager for the Montgomery County Public Schools transportation department. Students can then walk along Foreman Boulevard to Timber Creek Lane and enter the Clarksburg Village and Clarksburg Highlands communities that way, he said.
Both routes are about 1.5 miles to the Malik house, but the path along Foreman Boulevard appears less direct. SOURCE: Gazette
"To be honest, it is so dangerous," Malik said. "I've seen so many kids walking in the road."
The Maliks live in Clarksburg Highlands, less than 2 miles from the school. Montgomery County Public Schools does not provide bus transportation to high school students living within 2 miles of a high school, as long as students have a safe path to the school.
The traffic light in front of the school, at Frederick Road and Foreman Boulevard, offers a safe crossing of Frederick Road, said Alan Heard, communications manager for the Montgomery County Public Schools transportation department. Students can then walk along Foreman Boulevard to Timber Creek Lane and enter the Clarksburg Village and Clarksburg Highlands communities that way, he said.
Both routes are about 1.5 miles to the Malik house, but the path along Foreman Boulevard appears less direct. SOURCE: Gazette
Ike Leggett dialogues with Orthodox Jewish leadership
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Orthodox Union facilitates meeting with powerful County Executive & synagogue, school & communal leadership; discusses education, energy & security issues. The powerful chief executive of Maryland's most populous county met this week with Orthodox synagogue rabbis, school executives and community leaders to discuss issues of concern. Facilitated by the Orthodox Union, the nation's largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, the meeting took place at the Kemp Mill Synagogue, an OU member congregation.
Chief among the topics discussed was education, as well as energy efficiency and public safety. Mr. Leggett detailed his support for all residents of the county, including those in nonpublic schools as well as synagogues or other nonprofits that provide critical services. Noting that if all nonpublic schools closed their doors and all those students became the charge of the county, they have neither the space nor finances for such an influx, Mr. Leggett pledged to work with the community on finding practical solutions. As well, citing the new utility tax increase, he also committed to working on finding solutions for nonprofits to better manage energy conservation, an area the Orthodox Union has successfully advocated for at the federal level. Finally, the County Executive forcefully condemned hate crimes, including a recent attack on a synagogue in Olney, and reiterated his commitment to keeping everyone in the County safe, and to having local law enforcement partner with communal institutions.
Howie Beigelman, OU Deputy Director of Public Policy stated:
"Government at the local level often has the most direct bearing on families, communities & institutions. We appreciate the County Executive's outreach to our leaders and his candid, direct conversation and his commitment to follow through towards workable solutions for the entire county."
PICTURE: (l-r) Maury Litwack, Deputy Director of OU IPA; Ike Leggett¸ Montgomery County Executive; Jennifer Zuckerman, Director of Development for MJBHA; and Daphna Raskas, President of MJBHA
SOURCE: OU
SUSPICIOUS: Montgomery County police kill man; claim struggle
Montgomery County police say a Silver Spring man has died days after he was stunned and pepper-sprayed in an altercation with officers. Police say 65-year-old Karreem Abdul Ali died early Thursday. Four days earlier, an officer responding to a report of a suspicious situation in White Oak on Sunday night encountered Ali in a stairwell of an apartment building. Police say a struggle began after Ali did not respond to her questions and resisted efforts to escort him down the stairs.
A second officer arrived and police used a stun gun and pepper spray to subdue Ali. Ali was examined by medics, but police say he later stopped breathing and was taken to Holy Cross Hospital. Medical examiners will perform an autopsy. Police say the two officers are on administrative leave. SOURCE: FOX
A second officer arrived and police used a stun gun and pepper spray to subdue Ali. Ali was examined by medics, but police say he later stopped breathing and was taken to Holy Cross Hospital. Medical examiners will perform an autopsy. Police say the two officers are on administrative leave. SOURCE: FOX
Chicago, now appearing at the KAT
Last Saturday we went to see Chicago at our local theatre, the Kensington Arts Theatre at 3710 Mitchell Street, near the Safeway. We’d already seen Violet and Rent there this year and had a great time. It was also a nice way to spend our anniversary.
The musical which originally opened in 1975 on Broadway is set in Vaudevillian Chicago during the roaring twenties and showcases murder, greed and faux celebrity. In 2001, Hollywood made an Oscar winning movie of the musical starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger. It’s loosely based on the true story of two Chicago who were accused of murder. The KAT had 20 people performing the musical and we greatly enjoyed it, tickets are only ten dollars which is an absolute steal for the two hour of entertainment. Great acting, fun songs and a high energy show make the time fly by and I’d highly recommend it. They also have a deal where you can get front row tables to 2 and share a bottle of wine while watching the play. Go to KATonline.org to see the various options in more detail.
Twenty actors, plenty of song and dance, good humor and a story that’s pertinent to today’s media driven society makes it a can’t miss. There are three more weekends that its showing. MORE: What's Up Wheaton
The musical which originally opened in 1975 on Broadway is set in Vaudevillian Chicago during the roaring twenties and showcases murder, greed and faux celebrity. In 2001, Hollywood made an Oscar winning movie of the musical starring Catherine Zeta-Jones and Renee Zellweger. It’s loosely based on the true story of two Chicago who were accused of murder. The KAT had 20 people performing the musical and we greatly enjoyed it, tickets are only ten dollars which is an absolute steal for the two hour of entertainment. Great acting, fun songs and a high energy show make the time fly by and I’d highly recommend it. They also have a deal where you can get front row tables to 2 and share a bottle of wine while watching the play. Go to KATonline.org to see the various options in more detail.
Twenty actors, plenty of song and dance, good humor and a story that’s pertinent to today’s media driven society makes it a can’t miss. There are three more weekends that its showing. MORE: What's Up Wheaton
October 14, 2010
John Wagner of Washington Post summarizes Maryland governor race
Doesn't listening to John Wagner at The Washington Post make you realize how lucky we in Maryland are for having good insight into politics?
Ehrlich O'Malley debate #2
WASHINGTON - The two men running to be Governor of Maryland came into the District of Columbia Thursday to debate each other. Democratic Governor Martin O’Malley and former Republican Governor Robert Ehrlich faced off in a spirited contest at The Washington Post building in front of an audience. On the subject of immigration, O’Malley said the issued had been turned into a “political football” by Republicans. The governor decried what he called a “desire to blame new Americans for the problems in our economy. New Americans didn’t run Wall Street into the ground.”
In response, Ehrlich said O’Malley’s description of illegal immigrants was inaccurate.
“If somebody breaks into my house, is that a new member of my family that night? That’s not new Americans, [they are] illegals,” said Ehrlich.
Following the debate, both candidates said they believed they did well. When Ehrlich was asked what he had to do in the remaining weeks given the fact that several polls now show him trailing, his answer was “catch up.” The two candidates held their first debate Monday.
COMPLETE DEBATE (from O'Malley campaign):
In response, Ehrlich said O’Malley’s description of illegal immigrants was inaccurate.
“If somebody breaks into my house, is that a new member of my family that night? That’s not new Americans, [they are] illegals,” said Ehrlich.
Following the debate, both candidates said they believed they did well. When Ehrlich was asked what he had to do in the remaining weeks given the fact that several polls now show him trailing, his answer was “catch up.” The two candidates held their first debate Monday.
COMPLETE DEBATE (from O'Malley campaign):
Link between fire in Tennessee and Montgomery County?
When a Tennessee family watched firefighters arrive at their burning home and refuse to lift a hose to fight the flames because the family had neglected to pay its annual $75 fire protection fee, we thought it was time to send The Post's Michael Laris out to see what was what. Laris's report in today's Washington Post draws a connection between the Tennessee case and the decision voters in Montgomery County must make at the polls next month, when they vote on whether to approve a county initiative that would impose a fee for ambulance service.
Here's how Laris's story describes the link between the two cases: [The Tennessee case] has resonated across the country as either an extreme example of how personal responsibility should be the basis of American democracy or a nightmarish incident that proves how far the country has strayed from its purpose as a place where people care for one another. Next month, Montgomery County voters will decide whether ambulance service should be included in taxes or paid for by health insurance. The proposal, approved by the County Council this year, would not deny service to the uninsured, but opponents say the plan nonetheless violates the compact that has defined the American system at least since Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal: the idea of a safety net that supports all. But county executive Ike Leggett, along with some journalists at The Post, thought the connection between the two cases was too tenuous. As Leggett is quoted saying in the story, the connection is "reaching for straws and a desperate argument to try to confuse the public."
In fact, as the story takes pains to point out, the Montgomery initiative would not result in anyone being denied ambulance service, and the fees would not be paid directly by residents, but rather through their health insurers. Still, opponents of the fee say those distinctions are only points on a spectrum, and the essential fact behind both cases is that some want to pull Americans away from the New Deal-era notion--a theory of American government that traces all the way back to Benjamin Franklin's advocacy for volunteer fire companies--that the public obligation is to provide a safety net for all. SOURCE: Washington Post
Here's how Laris's story describes the link between the two cases: [The Tennessee case] has resonated across the country as either an extreme example of how personal responsibility should be the basis of American democracy or a nightmarish incident that proves how far the country has strayed from its purpose as a place where people care for one another. Next month, Montgomery County voters will decide whether ambulance service should be included in taxes or paid for by health insurance. The proposal, approved by the County Council this year, would not deny service to the uninsured, but opponents say the plan nonetheless violates the compact that has defined the American system at least since Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal: the idea of a safety net that supports all. But county executive Ike Leggett, along with some journalists at The Post, thought the connection between the two cases was too tenuous. As Leggett is quoted saying in the story, the connection is "reaching for straws and a desperate argument to try to confuse the public."
In fact, as the story takes pains to point out, the Montgomery initiative would not result in anyone being denied ambulance service, and the fees would not be paid directly by residents, but rather through their health insurers. Still, opponents of the fee say those distinctions are only points on a spectrum, and the essential fact behind both cases is that some want to pull Americans away from the New Deal-era notion--a theory of American government that traces all the way back to Benjamin Franklin's advocacy for volunteer fire companies--that the public obligation is to provide a safety net for all. SOURCE: Washington Post
Montgomery County news blurbs
Critically Missing Man from Potomac - http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=39478
Montgomery Organizational Reform Commission to Hold Public Forum on Wednesday, October 20; Residents Can Offer Suggestions On Consolidating/Reorganizing County Government - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6979
Human Rights Office Announces Annual Contests for Students to Highlight Human Rights Day - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6980
Pro Bono Consultant Program - The Montgomery County Volunteer Center Pro Bono Consultant Program matches skilled professionals with local nonprofits/government agencies who need expert help on short-term projects. We have several highly skilled professionals who are looking for projects. Their interests and/or experience include strategic planning, organizational development, leadership coaching, marketing, writing, and scientific research. If interested, please complete the project development form at the Pro Bono Consultant Page and email the project form to probono@montgomerycountymd.gov.
Second Time Round Sale - Out with the old and in with the new! Westland Middle School PTA‚s second annual Second Time Ĺ’Round Sale offers a great opportunity to refurbish your wardrobe just in time for winter. We are accepting donations of gently used clothing (adult & children), shoes, costume jewelry, and sports equipment anytime between now and Friday, Oct. 22nd. Just drop everything off at the Westland front office during school hours (5511 Mass. Ave., Bethesda, MD 20816). Then, come back and shop on Saturday, Oct. 23rd from 8:00am-4:00pm for great stuff at unbeatable prices! Questions? E-mail Alysa Emden at westlandmspta@gmail.com.
Montgomery Organizational Reform Commission to Hold Public Forum on Wednesday, October 20; Residents Can Offer Suggestions On Consolidating/Reorganizing County Government - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6979
Human Rights Office Announces Annual Contests for Students to Highlight Human Rights Day - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6980
Pro Bono Consultant Program - The Montgomery County Volunteer Center Pro Bono Consultant Program matches skilled professionals with local nonprofits/government agencies who need expert help on short-term projects. We have several highly skilled professionals who are looking for projects. Their interests and/or experience include strategic planning, organizational development, leadership coaching, marketing, writing, and scientific research. If interested, please complete the project development form at the Pro Bono Consultant Page
Second Time Round Sale - Out with the old and in with the new! Westland Middle School PTA‚s second annual Second Time Ĺ’Round Sale offers a great opportunity to refurbish your wardrobe just in time for winter. We are accepting donations of gently used clothing (adult & children), shoes, costume jewelry, and sports equipment anytime between now and Friday, Oct. 22nd. Just drop everything off at the Westland front office during school hours (5511 Mass. Ave., Bethesda, MD 20816). Then, come back and shop on Saturday, Oct. 23rd from 8:00am-4:00pm for great stuff at unbeatable prices! Questions? E-mail Alysa Emden at westlandmspta@gmail.com.
Much-Needed Rain To Fall on Area
The D.C. area could get up to an inch of rain Thursday from a storm system expected to become a major nor'easter as it moves further up the East Coast. A wave of low pressure passing through the area Thursday morning should bring light to moderate rain. But that system will deepen as it moves north and east of the area during the afternoon, according to NBC4 meteorologist Tom Kierein. The Washington region may get another burst of rain from early to mid-afternoon, with total amounts of up to 1 inch of rain by the time it ends late in the afternoon, Kierein said.
The storm is then expected to become a major nor'easter as it heads to Long Island and southeast New England. When it does, it will have an effect on our weather in the form of very gusty winds Thursday night and into Friday. We could feel gusts of more than 30 mph on Friday, Kierein said. The system also could cause flight delays Thursday night and Friday from Philadelphia to New England. SOURCE: NBC
The storm is then expected to become a major nor'easter as it heads to Long Island and southeast New England. When it does, it will have an effect on our weather in the form of very gusty winds Thursday night and into Friday. We could feel gusts of more than 30 mph on Friday, Kierein said. The system also could cause flight delays Thursday night and Friday from Philadelphia to New England. SOURCE: NBC
Watch Ehrlich and O'Malley debate from noon through 1 p.m.
The Post is hosting the debate streamed live at noon at washingtonpostlive.com and broadcast live on WUSA.
Schools consider lifting ban on planting gardens
Three sites owned by the county school system could one day host vegetable gardens, a move closer to the demands of advocates that want gardens on school property.
"I see this as the first step, an opportunity to work with MCPS. We can show them community gardens can be run according to guidelines," said Ursula Sabia Sukinik, community gardens coordinator for the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, who attended a hearing on the topic at the Montgomery County Council on Tuesday.
The three sites are: Spring Mill Center on Kemp Mill Road in Silver Spring, Rocking Horse Center on Macon Road in Rockville and Emory Grove Center on Washington Grove Lane in Gaithersburg.
Montgomery County Public Schools policy does not allow community vegetable gardens on property where there is a school. The school system has a Garden Work Group that is developing criteria for vegetable gardens, according to an Oct. 7 letter from school superintendant Jerry. D. Weast to the school board. At Tuesday's council meeting, Wendy Friar, chairman of the Montgomery County Commission on Health, urged the school system to "remove the ban on MCPS vegetable gardens. The policy is inconsistent with promoting better health," she said. SOURCE: Gazette
"I see this as the first step, an opportunity to work with MCPS. We can show them community gardens can be run according to guidelines," said Ursula Sabia Sukinik, community gardens coordinator for the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, who attended a hearing on the topic at the Montgomery County Council on Tuesday.
The three sites are: Spring Mill Center on Kemp Mill Road in Silver Spring, Rocking Horse Center on Macon Road in Rockville and Emory Grove Center on Washington Grove Lane in Gaithersburg.
Montgomery County Public Schools policy does not allow community vegetable gardens on property where there is a school. The school system has a Garden Work Group that is developing criteria for vegetable gardens, according to an Oct. 7 letter from school superintendant Jerry. D. Weast to the school board. At Tuesday's council meeting, Wendy Friar, chairman of the Montgomery County Commission on Health, urged the school system to "remove the ban on MCPS vegetable gardens. The policy is inconsistent with promoting better health," she said. SOURCE: Gazette
Chevy Chase dog smokes pot
CHEVY CHASE, Md. - A Chevy Chase, Md. woman considers her toy poodle more like a child than a pet, so when he got very sick last Monday, all Cynthia Painter could do was cry and hope doctors could save her puppy. Painter said she was walking Senator in her apartment courtyard when all of a sudden, he scooped up a cigarette butt in his mouth.
"I quickly removed it, but within an hour, he couldn't walk right and his eyes were glassy, so we rushed him the hospital," Painter said.
Dr. Nicola Moore from the Friendship Hospital for Animals treated Senator and ordered blood work, which came back positive for marijuana and trace amounts of cocaine.
"We do see this from time to time in animals, so people really have to watch their animals and what they're ingesting," said Dr. Moore.
Senator made a full recovery, but Painter is concerned if her dog can get sick from accidentally picking up an illegal cigarette, what about a child?
"This is a wake up call for me and for parents to really watch what's on the ground around them," Painter said. SOURCE: FOX
"I quickly removed it, but within an hour, he couldn't walk right and his eyes were glassy, so we rushed him the hospital," Painter said.
Dr. Nicola Moore from the Friendship Hospital for Animals treated Senator and ordered blood work, which came back positive for marijuana and trace amounts of cocaine.
"We do see this from time to time in animals, so people really have to watch their animals and what they're ingesting," said Dr. Moore.
Senator made a full recovery, but Painter is concerned if her dog can get sick from accidentally picking up an illegal cigarette, what about a child?
"This is a wake up call for me and for parents to really watch what's on the ground around them," Painter said. SOURCE: FOX
MARC Brunswick Line Reopens After Man Hit By Train
ROCKVILLE, Md. - The MARC Brunswick line and a busy section of Randolph Road in Rockville have reopened after being shut down after a man was hit by a freight train. Montgomery County Police say the man was hit by a CSX freight train around 2 p.m. Wednesday near the Randolph Road and Nebel Street crossing. The Maryland Transit Administration says Metro will honor MARC tickets on the red line. Police spokesman Cpl. Dan Friz says the train stopped over the man's body and investigators had to get permission from the medical examiner before they can move the train to reach the body. Friz says preliminary witness accounts suggest the man committed suicide. SOURCE: FOX
Ehrlich & O'Malley debate #2 at noon today, streamed
Three days after tangling in a television studio in Baltimore, Maryland's leading candidates for governor are scheduled to square off today in a live debate at The Washington Post. We're hoping this encounter will be a tad more forward-looking than Round 1 between Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) and former governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) -- which closely resembled the "grudge match" that Ehrlich insists to reporters this race is not.
"We need to look at the present. We need to look at the future," the former governor said Wednesday as he campaigned in Baltimore, talking about the tax environment facing Maryland businesses.
In a state served by two major media markets, one can expect The Post debate to tilt more toward topics affecting the Washington suburbs -- though the issues that have dominated he campaign to date, such as job creation and education, are largely of statewide importance and will get an airing, too.
The Post is hosting the debate with two media partners, WAMU (88.5 FM) and WUSA (Channel 9). The hourlong affair will be streamed live at noon at washingtonpostlive.com and broadcast live on WUSA. WAMU is airing the debate at 8 p.m. Maryland Public Television will also broadcast the debate live at noon and rebroadcast it at 7 p.m.
Washington Post Live editor Mary Jordan will moderate the discussion and ask questions along with WAMU 88.5 reporter Matt Bush and 9NEWS Now weekday anchor Derek McGinty. O'Malley told reporters Wednesday that he expects to cover more topics than on Monday, noting that issues such as the environment, energy policy, mass transit and smart growth didn't get much attention. "I hope we talk about education, higher education and the things that are going to enable us to make the transition to a new economy," O'Malley said.
One thing to watch: Recent polls have shown Ehrlich trailing, and many pundits thought he would try to shake up the race Monday at WJZ. Most pundits thought he didn't. Arguably the most memorable part of Ehrlich's performance was his repeated use of the term "gov" to refer to O'Malley. It will be interesting to see if Ehrlich takes a more aggressive posture today.
We have a few bells and whistles. Since Monday, we've been taking suggestions for questions, which you can continue to offer at the Washington Post Live site. SOURCE: Washington Post
"We need to look at the present. We need to look at the future," the former governor said Wednesday as he campaigned in Baltimore, talking about the tax environment facing Maryland businesses.
In a state served by two major media markets, one can expect The Post debate to tilt more toward topics affecting the Washington suburbs -- though the issues that have dominated he campaign to date, such as job creation and education, are largely of statewide importance and will get an airing, too.
The Post is hosting the debate with two media partners, WAMU (88.5 FM) and WUSA (Channel 9). The hourlong affair will be streamed live at noon at washingtonpostlive.com and broadcast live on WUSA. WAMU is airing the debate at 8 p.m. Maryland Public Television will also broadcast the debate live at noon and rebroadcast it at 7 p.m.
Washington Post Live editor Mary Jordan will moderate the discussion and ask questions along with WAMU 88.5 reporter Matt Bush and 9NEWS Now weekday anchor Derek McGinty. O'Malley told reporters Wednesday that he expects to cover more topics than on Monday, noting that issues such as the environment, energy policy, mass transit and smart growth didn't get much attention. "I hope we talk about education, higher education and the things that are going to enable us to make the transition to a new economy," O'Malley said.
One thing to watch: Recent polls have shown Ehrlich trailing, and many pundits thought he would try to shake up the race Monday at WJZ. Most pundits thought he didn't. Arguably the most memorable part of Ehrlich's performance was his repeated use of the term "gov" to refer to O'Malley. It will be interesting to see if Ehrlich takes a more aggressive posture today.
We have a few bells and whistles. Since Monday, we've been taking suggestions for questions, which you can continue to offer at the Washington Post Live site. SOURCE: Washington Post
Victory reception to benefit the election campaign of Don Irvine
Victory reception to benefit the election campaign of Don Irvine. Maryland State Senate candidate, District 19 with Special Guest Kendel Ehrlich Don Irvine Maryland State Senate candidate, District 19
Thursday, October 21, 2010
6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
At the Stain Glass Pub
12510 Layhill Rd
Silver Spring, Maryland 20906-3643
Special Guest Speaker Maryland’s First Lady Kendel Ehrlich. $50 per person, $100 per couple. Pay online at https://www.fundraisingbynet.net/fbn/contributeState.asp?guidRegistration=565A5658
Thursday, October 21, 2010
6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
At the Stain Glass Pub
12510 Layhill Rd
Silver Spring, Maryland 20906-3643
Special Guest Speaker Maryland’s First Lady Kendel Ehrlich. $50 per person, $100 per couple. Pay online at https://www.fundraisingbynet.net/fbn/contributeState.asp?guidRegistration=565A5658
October 13, 2010
Montgomery Blair writer writes about Delaware's Republican nominee for U.S. Senate
by Molly Nicholson, Staff WriterChristine O'Donnell professed in her campaign ad, "I am not a witch, I'm you." The most disturbing thing about this ad is not the fact that O'Donnell practiced witchcraft, but the that fact her involvement with even matters at all. Even though she doesnĂt practice witchcraft anymore, many people still do worship the form of the Neopagan religion known as Wicca, otherwise referred to as Witchcraft or the Craft.
According to religioustolerance.org, people who practice Wicca represent the seventh largest organized religion and the tenth largest religious grouping in the U.S. Approximately 682,000 people admit they are Wiccan or other Neopagans. Wicca is a religion that worships a Goddess and a God, referred as the Triple Goddess and Horned God. Wicca also involves the ritual practice of magic, largely influenced by previous centuries. Another characteristic of witchcraft is the celebration of seasonally based festivals known as Sabbats.
Politicians have long been criticized by the public eye to the point of excessiveness. One should be judged upon their political standings, not their religion. Many people consider the religion of Wicca as not a religion at all, but a cult, and that is the reason voters will not cast their vote for O'Donnell, not because of her Tea Party politics, but because she used to practice witchcraft. Hate her for her politics, not her old religious beliefs.
Witchcraft can be a sensitive subject and the media needs to put the spotlight on the subject in an appropriate way. Hundreds of Indian women are killed each year for being accused of witchcraft. In Nigeria, countless children, also accused of being witches, end up in orphanages after suffering abuse in their villages. Yet, we hardly hear anything about these issues. The media should pay more attention to the people that need the attention when it comes to witchcraft and not a Tea Party candidate who "dabbled in witchcraft." SOURCE: Silver Chips
DC schools want to know everything kids do sexually
WASHINGTON - Sex education in schools has always been a controversial topic. From how early is too early to start educating kids to what topics should and shouldn't be discussed. A recent survey developed by Metro TeenAIDS, a community health group dedicated to helping young people fight against HIV/AIDS, has ruffled a few feathers. The survey was given to 7th graders at Hardy Middle School in the District and asked questions such as:
How sure are you...?
- That you can correctly put a condom on yourself or your partner?
- That you would recognize the symptoms of an STD?
In the past 30 days...On how many days did you use marijuana?
Adam Tenner, Executive Director of Metro TeenAIDS joined us on the FOX 5 News at 10.
How sure are you...?
- That you can correctly put a condom on yourself or your partner?
- That you would recognize the symptoms of an STD?
In the past 30 days...On how many days did you use marijuana?
Adam Tenner, Executive Director of Metro TeenAIDS joined us on the FOX 5 News at 10.
Man struck by CSX train in Rockville
A man was struck by a CSX freight train in Rockville Wednesday afternoon, Montgomery County police said. Medics responded to the tracks near the intersection of Randolph and Nebel Street, according to a spokesman for the county's Fire and Rescue Service. A CSX employee also was being evaluated for a medical condition, said Capt. Oscar Garcia, spokesman for the fire and rescue service. MARC and Amtrak trains will face delays this afternoon and evening as Montgomery County police investigate the death, Dr. Gridlock reports. SOURCE: Washington Post
Perez Hilton Says He Won't Be Outing Gays Anymore, and Won't Be as Bullying
TVWeek is trawling video-sharing Web sites to find the hottest clips spreading on the Internet. Visit TVWeek.com to view the latest. The Setup: There's been a lot of concern--as there should be--about intolerance lately, especially in light of the suicides of a number of people who were gay and had been bullied. Perez Hilton, who runs a popular gossip site on the Internet, is openly gay, but a bully nonetheless. Furthermore, he has outed other celebrities who are gay but not public about it. He did that to Neil Patrick Harris several years ago. However, in light of the recent bullying of gays that's been in the news, Perez says he's had a change of heart about his behavior. In this video he visits Ellen DeGeneres to talk about his past sins.
Meet & Greet candidate Robert Broadus on October 16 from 1-5 PM
Meet & Greet Oktoberfest this Saturday Oct 16th 1pm-5pm in support of Robert Broadus, running for US Congress MD-4. Since I am guessing all of you live fairly close we wanted to spread the word about Mr. Broadus. Please pass this along to anyone who you think would want to come. We have a great day planned. Hope you all can stop by.
Please Join Thor & Diane Smith
18716 Shremor Drive
Derwood, MD 20855
For Robert Broadus
Candidate for U. S. Congress, MD-4
www.justiceandliberty.us
Meet-and-Greet ~ Family Fun Day!
Bring the Kids!
Saturday October 16, 2010 1:00-5:00 PM
Great Food! Live Music!
Fun Contests! Wild Games! Win Great Prizes!
RSVP BY: 10/13/10: dsmith@runnersinc.com
(h) 301-330-3995
Thor Smith Runners Inc.
www.runnersinc.com
7924 Queenair Drive
Gaithersburg, MD 20879
301-948-7500, 800-204-7501,fax 301-330-1451 cell 301-252-1220
Seemingly naked DC Firefighter on Administrative Leave
The firefighter who was apparently caught on camera naked preparing food for a party in a firehouse has been placed on forced administrative leave. Forced leave means that he will not be paid, but can use vacation time that he has earned.
The photo was supplied to News4 by a source who says complaints had been made by people who were at the station at the time. This engine company serves the Columbia Heights neighborhood. The D.C. Fire and EMS Department says there was a retirement celebration attended by off-duty firefighters there in July.
A source obtained the picture and gave it to News4, telling us that it's a naked firefighter at the stove. The DC Fire and EMS Department says investigations are ongoing, but they do not believe there was alcohol in the station. They also say the man in the picture is the only person under investigation.
A source obtained the picture and gave it to News4, telling us that it's a naked firefighter at the stove. The DC Fire and EMS Department says investigations are ongoing, but they do not believe there was alcohol in the station. They also say the man in the picture is the only person under investigation.
Asteroid to skim past Montgomery County (and Earth)
The giant rock, which is 20ft (6m) wide, will come its closest shortly before midday, though astronomers are not sure what its exact path will be. But experts, who named the asteroid 2010 TD54, said that despite passing very close to the planet it would not enter the atmosphere, and that even if it did it would burn up before reaching the ground.
Nasa's Asteroid Watch said on Twitter: "Small space rocks this size would burn up in our atmosphere & pose no ground danger."
The group added that a "moderate telescope" would be required to make out the rock, which will at times be closer to Earth than some satellites, and significantly nearer than the moon. Emily Baldwin, of Astronomy Now, told The Times: "Fortunately it seems this one will miss us. But it is a reminder that the Earth is still in the middle of a cosmic shooting gallery and we need to keep constant watch for incoming asteroids". SOURCE: Telegraph
Nasa's Asteroid Watch said on Twitter: "Small space rocks this size would burn up in our atmosphere & pose no ground danger."
The group added that a "moderate telescope" would be required to make out the rock, which will at times be closer to Earth than some satellites, and significantly nearer than the moon. Emily Baldwin, of Astronomy Now, told The Times: "Fortunately it seems this one will miss us. But it is a reminder that the Earth is still in the middle of a cosmic shooting gallery and we need to keep constant watch for incoming asteroids". SOURCE: Telegraph
Montogmery Co. Bedbug Update
Dr. Ulder Tillman, the county's health officer, met with members of the county council Tuesday to let them know what's going on with bedbugs.
"…[W]e've only had sporadic complaints that have come into our department about bedbugs, but they have been in a few nursing homes, even in a few hospitals and in some hotels, and obviously in some shelters, so it's something that is growing and becoming more of a concern," Tillman said.
Although county health officials have been keeping watch on infestations since 2007, the presence of this troubling insect in the county is not a reportable event like measles, for example. Tillman said avoiding the little buggers is a matter of personal responsibility.
"You want to get a pest management person in to help you ... and you have to be diligent about it, because these bedbugs can last a long time so one treatment alone is not going to do it," she said.
Tillman also suggest getting rid of clutter, vacuuming rugs and carpets regularly, and sealing cracks and crevices to remove hiding places.
Listen to the whole story at WAMU.
"…[W]e've only had sporadic complaints that have come into our department about bedbugs, but they have been in a few nursing homes, even in a few hospitals and in some hotels, and obviously in some shelters, so it's something that is growing and becoming more of a concern," Tillman said.
Although county health officials have been keeping watch on infestations since 2007, the presence of this troubling insect in the county is not a reportable event like measles, for example. Tillman said avoiding the little buggers is a matter of personal responsibility.
"You want to get a pest management person in to help you ... and you have to be diligent about it, because these bedbugs can last a long time so one treatment alone is not going to do it," she said.
Tillman also suggest getting rid of clutter, vacuuming rugs and carpets regularly, and sealing cracks and crevices to remove hiding places.
Listen to the whole story at WAMU.
Montgomery County news blurbs
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting ˆ The WMCCA will meet on October 18 from 7:00 ˆ 9:00 pm at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Md. The agenda includes a presentation by Planning Director Rollin Stanley on the changing demographics of the County; park stewardship opportunities, with Brian Woodward, Chief, Southern Region, Parks Department; and a discussion with community associations on neighborhood and pedestrian safety concerns. The agenda will be posted to the web site by Friday, October 15.
Police Search for Critically Missing 16-Year-Old Bethesda Girl - http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=39452
Montgomery County Public Libraries Encourages Teens to „Read for the Fun of It‰ During Teen Read Week - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6977
Auditions Announced for Montgomery County‚s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative Celebration - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6978
Montgomery County Humane Society and sponsors Paul's Wine and Spirits and Maggiano's invite you to the 10th annual Wines for Canines & Felines .
This THURSDAY, Oct. 14, the event will be held on the top private floor of Maggiano's in DC from 6:30-9pm. Proceeds benefit the homeless animals of MCHS. Enjoy a wine tasting, full dinner buffet, silent auction, and craft beer tasting. Over 100 + wines to taste, ranging from great values to rare and esoteric wines. New and interesting wines are introduced each year for a unique experience. Ticket price at the door: $75 per person. Call Rick or James at (202) 537-1900 and make your reservation TODAY!
The Montgomery County Organizational Reform Commission has scheduled a public forum for Wednesday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m., in the Third Floor Hearing Room of Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The Committee is seeking public opinions on restructuring the current organization of County Government and County-funded agencies. Residents can sign up in advance to speak by calling 240-777-7814 or 240-777-7938. The submission of items in writing is welcome and encouraged.
The 13th annual Edgemoor 5K Classic will take place on Sunday, Nov. 7th. Start and finish at Bethesda Elementary School. Race proceeds support Bethesda Elementary and the Bethesda Library. tart time is 8:30am. To register, go to www.edgemoorcitizens.org
Ramona Quimby ˆ The Bethesda-Chevy Chase (B-CC) High School (H.S.) Theater Ensemble‚s Production of „Ramona Quimby!‰ makes its debut on the B-CC H.S. stage under the direction of B-CC HS senior, Hannah Johnson. Plucky and endearing are among the words theater critics are using to describe „Ramona Quimby,‰ the staged show based on author Beverly Cleary‚s popular children‚s book series. The show, featuring B-CC H.S. students, will run Friday, November 5 at 7:00 pm and Saturday, November 6 at 2:00 pm in the school‚s auditorium. Tickets are $5/each and may be purchased on-line at www.bcctheater.com
HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW on Sunday, December 5, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., at the Clara Barton Community Center, a facility of the Montgomery County Recreation Department. Sponsored by the Friends of the Clara Barton Community Center (a nonprofit organization), the show will feature local artists and craftspeople. The center is located at 7425 MacArthur Boulevard (at 75th Street) in Cabin John, MD. Plan to come, admire, and shop! There will be all kinds of reasonably priced crafts for sale˜jewelry, beads, fiber arts, soaps, Christmas items, wood crafts, prints, metalwork, ceramics, glass, oils, watercolors, photography, books . . . and more. So stop in and enjoy meeting many of the most creative people in our community. Light refreshments will be available for a modest fee. For more information, call the Center at 301-229-0010.
Police Search for Critically Missing 16-Year-Old Bethesda Girl - http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=39452
Montgomery County Public Libraries Encourages Teens to „Read for the Fun of It‰ During Teen Read Week - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6977
Auditions Announced for Montgomery County‚s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative Celebration - http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6978
Montgomery County Humane Society and sponsors Paul's Wine and Spirits and Maggiano's invite you to the 10th annual Wines for Canines & Felines
The Montgomery County Organizational Reform Commission has scheduled a public forum for Wednesday, Oct. 20, 7 p.m., in the Third Floor Hearing Room of Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The Committee is seeking public opinions on restructuring the current organization of County Government and County-funded agencies. Residents can sign up in advance to speak by calling 240-777-7814 or 240-777-7938. The submission of items in writing is welcome and encouraged.
The 13th annual Edgemoor 5K Classic will take place on Sunday, Nov. 7th. Start and finish at Bethesda Elementary School. Race proceeds support Bethesda Elementary and the Bethesda Library. tart time is 8:30am. To register, go to www.edgemoorcitizens.org
Ramona Quimby ˆ The Bethesda-Chevy Chase (B-CC) High School (H.S.) Theater Ensemble‚s Production of „Ramona Quimby!‰ makes its debut on the B-CC H.S. stage under the direction of B-CC HS senior, Hannah Johnson. Plucky and endearing are among the words theater critics are using to describe „Ramona Quimby,‰ the staged show based on author Beverly Cleary‚s popular children‚s book series. The show, featuring B-CC H.S. students, will run Friday, November 5 at 7:00 pm and Saturday, November 6 at 2:00 pm in the school‚s auditorium. Tickets are $5/each and may be purchased on-line at www.bcctheater.com
HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW on Sunday, December 5, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., at the Clara Barton Community Center, a facility of the Montgomery County Recreation Department. Sponsored by the Friends of the Clara Barton Community Center (a nonprofit organization), the show will feature local artists and craftspeople. The center is located at 7425 MacArthur Boulevard (at 75th Street) in Cabin John, MD. Plan to come, admire, and shop! There will be all kinds of reasonably priced crafts for sale˜jewelry, beads, fiber arts, soaps, Christmas items, wood crafts, prints, metalwork, ceramics, glass, oils, watercolors, photography, books . . . and more. So stop in and enjoy meeting many of the most creative people in our community. Light refreshments will be available for a modest fee. For more information, call the Center at 301-229-0010.
After debate, watch how former Governor Bob Ehrlich handles the 'press'
After their first debate, watch how former Governor Bob Ehrlich handles the "press" which could also be O'Malley's press people. The Sun reported Ehrlich waited in a back room for about 30 minutes talking to staff before jetting. Then why are the Republicans not doing these same games? Or are they games at all? Regardless, why avoid the questions at all?
World-class scare campaign over ambulance fees is here
[Recently], Maryland's highest court ordered that the EMS transport fee — or ambulance fee — petition be placed the November ballot, ruling that the County Board of Elections improperly rejected tens of thousands of signatures submitted by the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association. Although more than 52,000 county residents signed the petition to place ambulance fees on the ballot for a vote, County Executive Isiah Leggett intervened in the court case in order to thwart a vote by the people on the ambulance fee law.
With the ink on the court's order barely dry, the county executive's spokesperson already is warning of drastic spending cuts, including to public safety programs. [Recently], County Council member Phil Andrews accurately predicted: "I think you're going to see a world-class scare campaign starting in the next week or two." But he was wrong on one point: it's already started.
But consider the facts. First, since the law was enacted in May, not one cent of ambulance fee revenue has been collected, and no fees would have been collected until the end of the year — at the earliest. Second, the legislation explicitly states that ambulance fee revenue would go into the fiscal 2011 general fund — and not be earmarked for the fire/rescue service. If there was no such earmark, why is the executive now calling for cuts in public safety programs? Third, the $12.5 million at issue is just one-third of 1 percent of the overall $4 billion county budget.
Surely, the county could find that kind of money by cutting back on travel, conferences and other non-essential services. Additionally, last year the county was able to close a gap of over $100 million through mid-year cuts. The county did this without the loss of jobs or cutting vital public safety services. That still can be done with good management.
We're confident county residents will reject ambulance fees, and vote no on the ballot question, because they may deter calls to 911 when help is needed most, will drive up insurance costs and should not be charged for a service often provided for free by volunteer fire/rescue personnel. In doing so, they will expect county leaders to find other ways to make up the one-third of 1 percent of the county-funded budget. That's not too much to ask of our elected leaders.
Marcine D. Goodloe, Rockville
The writer is president of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association.
SOURCE: Individual writer and Gazette
With the ink on the court's order barely dry, the county executive's spokesperson already is warning of drastic spending cuts, including to public safety programs. [Recently], County Council member Phil Andrews accurately predicted: "I think you're going to see a world-class scare campaign starting in the next week or two." But he was wrong on one point: it's already started.
But consider the facts. First, since the law was enacted in May, not one cent of ambulance fee revenue has been collected, and no fees would have been collected until the end of the year — at the earliest. Second, the legislation explicitly states that ambulance fee revenue would go into the fiscal 2011 general fund — and not be earmarked for the fire/rescue service. If there was no such earmark, why is the executive now calling for cuts in public safety programs? Third, the $12.5 million at issue is just one-third of 1 percent of the overall $4 billion county budget.
Surely, the county could find that kind of money by cutting back on travel, conferences and other non-essential services. Additionally, last year the county was able to close a gap of over $100 million through mid-year cuts. The county did this without the loss of jobs or cutting vital public safety services. That still can be done with good management.
We're confident county residents will reject ambulance fees, and vote no on the ballot question, because they may deter calls to 911 when help is needed most, will drive up insurance costs and should not be charged for a service often provided for free by volunteer fire/rescue personnel. In doing so, they will expect county leaders to find other ways to make up the one-third of 1 percent of the county-funded budget. That's not too much to ask of our elected leaders.
Marcine D. Goodloe, Rockville
The writer is president of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire-Rescue Association.
SOURCE: Individual writer and Gazette
Recommended wines from Montgomery County vineyards
Here are Dave McIntyre's picks for wines made by local clients of Charlottesville ampelographer and viticulture expert Lucie Morton. They are primarily available at the wineries (though Boxwood sells its wines through its Tasting Room outlets in Middleburg, Reston and Chevy Chase). Each has limited distribution in area stores and restaurants. Your best bet is to visit the wineries and keep tabs on when new wines will be released.
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, Dickerson. Montgomery County's only vineyard - so far - is situated on an old cattle farm at the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain. The winery used some California fruit at first but has gone entirely estate with the 2009 vintage. Whites are best, including an excellent 2009 reserve chardonnay that will be released this month. At $23, it is a great value. SOURCE: Washington Post
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, Dickerson. Montgomery County's only vineyard - so far - is situated on an old cattle farm at the foot of Sugarloaf Mountain. The winery used some California fruit at first but has gone entirely estate with the 2009 vintage. Whites are best, including an excellent 2009 reserve chardonnay that will be released this month. At $23, it is a great value. SOURCE: Washington Post
October 12, 2010
Homeowner makes sign visible from sky in foreclosure fight
THE ACREAGE, Fla. - Juan Guzman has a large, lawn-wide sign in his front yard labeled 'JP Morgan Chase help.' It's his last hope to save his dream home. The Acreage man built his house in 2007 but couldn't handle the mortgage payment of $3,600 a month. He said he tried negotiating a lower loan from his bank but it wouldn't budge. Last year Guzman became unemployed and now his house is in foreclosure. Talking about his sign, Guzman said, "Trying to save my house, my family and my savings, life savings."
Guzman said his sign on his 82nd Lane home can be seen from an airplane.
He hopes to negotiate with his bank again because he is now employed.
"We are all Americans and we should be helping each other. You banks, you already got the help from the government, so its time to show up," Guzman said.
Guzman's plea for help comes when some banks, including JP Morgan Chase, are temporarily stopping the foreclosure process. Guzman says he's putting up his sign for those who don't want to speak out. "There's a lot of people like me that are not putting signs like that out."
Guzman's neighbors have seen the sign in his front yard. And at least one living down the road is dealing with some home loan issues of his own. Fernando Cujar's home is almost finished. He says his bank won't switch his home construction loan to a regular home loan. He says he needs the switch to get a few more thousand dollars to finish the house.
"The banks, they don't understand that. They don't have the human part of the situation," Cujar says.
Still, Cujar feels inspired by Guzman's sign. "He's been fighting so much. He's a tough fighter, you know?"
Guzman said his sign on his 82nd Lane home can be seen from an airplane.
He hopes to negotiate with his bank again because he is now employed.
"We are all Americans and we should be helping each other. You banks, you already got the help from the government, so its time to show up," Guzman said.
Guzman's plea for help comes when some banks, including JP Morgan Chase, are temporarily stopping the foreclosure process. Guzman says he's putting up his sign for those who don't want to speak out. "There's a lot of people like me that are not putting signs like that out."
Guzman's neighbors have seen the sign in his front yard. And at least one living down the road is dealing with some home loan issues of his own. Fernando Cujar's home is almost finished. He says his bank won't switch his home construction loan to a regular home loan. He says he needs the switch to get a few more thousand dollars to finish the house.
"The banks, they don't understand that. They don't have the human part of the situation," Cujar says.
Still, Cujar feels inspired by Guzman's sign. "He's been fighting so much. He's a tough fighter, you know?"
Md. road redesigns to stem pedestrian deaths
WASHINGTON -- A recent spate of fatal accidents involving pedestrians have led at least one local administrator to consider redesigning the roads. Pedestrians contributed to eight out of 11 fatal crashes in Montgomery County, police say, sometimes engaging in risky behavior as they traverse heavily trafficked routes. Pedestrians accessing the White Flint Metro station in Rockville, Md., for example, have to cross eight lanes of traffic on Rockville Pike.
"I'm sitting there thinking, there's no way on earth I'd do that," Montgomery County Planning Director Rollin Stanley told WTOP as he watched a man dash across the road with little time to spare on the green light.
"It's very unsafe because the cars keep rushing, they come from all directions."
Stanley is considering a road redesign that would slow traffic and add up to 40 seconds to the average commute.
"That's not a lot of time," he said, "and if it means people on the street, and bicycles and pedestrians are going to be safer, then that's a good exchange."
"If we redesign Rockville Pike, people's expectations change, their habits change." SOURCE: WTOP
"I'm sitting there thinking, there's no way on earth I'd do that," Montgomery County Planning Director Rollin Stanley told WTOP as he watched a man dash across the road with little time to spare on the green light.
"It's very unsafe because the cars keep rushing, they come from all directions."
Stanley is considering a road redesign that would slow traffic and add up to 40 seconds to the average commute.
"That's not a lot of time," he said, "and if it means people on the street, and bicycles and pedestrians are going to be safer, then that's a good exchange."
"If we redesign Rockville Pike, people's expectations change, their habits change." SOURCE: WTOP
'Transformers 3' Filming Should Resume Tuesday after Accident with Bumblebee
Filming of ‘Transformers 3’ on Washington D.C. streets has been suspended following an accident Monday, however, it is expected to resume as planned.
District Department of Transportation spokesman John Lisle says that the filming scheduled in D.C. for Tuesday and Wednesday evening should resume as scheduled. He said that we will know for sure later Tuesday afternoon.
An accident involving a marked cruiser and a vehicle involved in the filming occurred Monday causing filming to be closed. Metropolitan Police say an officer suffered minor injuries in the accident.
Student struck by vehicle in Bethesda crosswalk
"It is only matter of time before we have a serious accident," Westland Middle School Principal Danny Vogelman said, reading the first sentence of a letter dated several years ago from a file he keeps about traffic safety concerns surrounding his school.
The file has letters dating to 1999 from school and community members expressing concerns to county and state agencies about the safety of children walking on roads surrounding the school, at 5511 Massachusetts Ave., and requesting traffic improvements, Vogelman said.
A decade after those first letters in the file, a 13-year-old girl was struck by a vehicle while she was in a crosswalk on Massachusetts and Westbard avenues around 5:30 p.m. Sept. 13, Montgomery County police spokeswoman Blanca Kling said. The driver hit the girl when he went around a sport utility vehicle stopped at the crosswalk.
"Even though she is not one of our children, an accident did occur," said Vogelman, who said more than 100 of the school's more than 1,000 students walk to and from school.
The girl, a student at the nearby Thomas W. Pyle Middle School, was taken to Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., with serious injuries. The driver was charged with failure to use caution to avoid pedestrian collision, Kling said. The girl is recovering, said Pyle Principal Jennifer Webster. The collision has prompted schools, churches and others to renew their requests for crossing guards and other safety improvements to the busy road.
In a half mile stretch surrounding the crash site, there were 28 vehicle accidents, 13 of which resulted in injury and 15 of which were property damage only, from September 2006 through September 2009, police said. In a one-week study in May, the area found 6.3 percent of 53,093 vehicles traveled 12-20 miles per hour over the 35 miles per hour speed limit, and .15 percent traveled more than 20 miles per hour over the limit, according to the police Automated Traffic Enforcement Unit. SOURCE: Gazette
"Even though she is not one of our children, an accident did occur," said Vogelman, who said more than 100 of the school's more than 1,000 students walk to and from school.
The girl, a student at the nearby Thomas W. Pyle Middle School, was taken to Children's National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., with serious injuries. The driver was charged with failure to use caution to avoid pedestrian collision, Kling said. The girl is recovering, said Pyle Principal Jennifer Webster. The collision has prompted schools, churches and others to renew their requests for crossing guards and other safety improvements to the busy road.
In a half mile stretch surrounding the crash site, there were 28 vehicle accidents, 13 of which resulted in injury and 15 of which were property damage only, from September 2006 through September 2009, police said. In a one-week study in May, the area found 6.3 percent of 53,093 vehicles traveled 12-20 miles per hour over the 35 miles per hour speed limit, and .15 percent traveled more than 20 miles per hour over the limit, according to the police Automated Traffic Enforcement Unit. SOURCE: Gazette
AGAIN? Pedestrian struck, killed on I-270 near Gaithersburg
A woman was struck by two vehicles and killed shortly before midnight Monday as she walked on southbound Interstate 270 south of Quince Orchard Road near Gaithersburg. The woman, who police identified only as a black female, was walking in the slow lane when she was struck by a 1996 Cadillac. She was then hit by a Montgomery County Metro bus. She died at the scene.
Maryland State Police Sgt. Kurt Dominick said police don't know why the woman was walking on the interstate. There were no disabled vehicles in the area. No witnesses called before the accident to report a pedestrian on the highway.
The Cadillac was driven by Quinton Jamal Isiah A. Baker of Gaithersburg. The Metro bus was driven by Terry Robin Jackson of Jefferson, W.Va. Both men stayed at the scene after the collisions. Neither is charged with any crime or under investigation, Dominick said. Police don't believe alcohol or speed were factors.
"At this point, things are leaning toward the fact that she was walking in the road illegally," Dominick said. SOURCE: Gazette
Maryland State Police Sgt. Kurt Dominick said police don't know why the woman was walking on the interstate. There were no disabled vehicles in the area. No witnesses called before the accident to report a pedestrian on the highway.
The Cadillac was driven by Quinton Jamal Isiah A. Baker of Gaithersburg. The Metro bus was driven by Terry Robin Jackson of Jefferson, W.Va. Both men stayed at the scene after the collisions. Neither is charged with any crime or under investigation, Dominick said. Police don't believe alcohol or speed were factors.
"At this point, things are leaning toward the fact that she was walking in the road illegally," Dominick said. SOURCE: Gazette
Kensington firefighter found dead near train tracks is identified
A man found dead near the train tracks in Kensington on Monday has been identified as Dome "Poon" Poonjumnern, 39, a longtime member of the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department and an emergency dispatcher for Montgomery County. Poonjumnern attained the rank of Master Firefighter, and was a "live-in" volunteer at the department's Station No.18 in Glenmont for the first eight years of his nearly 20-year career, the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department reported in a statement Tuesday. He was recently transferred to Kensington Volunteer Fire Department Station No. 25 in Aspen Hill after working as a dispatcher for the county's 911 center, according to the statement.
"He was a dedicated life member," said Kensington Volunteer Fire Department President Steven Semler.
Montgomery County police say they found the body of a man near the CSX tracks close to Howard Avenue and Fawcett Street around 10 a.m. Monday after receiving a call to check on his welfare. He apparently killed himself. SOURCE: Gazette
"He was a dedicated life member," said Kensington Volunteer Fire Department President Steven Semler.
Montgomery County police say they found the body of a man near the CSX tracks close to Howard Avenue and Fawcett Street around 10 a.m. Monday after receiving a call to check on his welfare. He apparently killed himself. SOURCE: Gazette
Silver Spring man dies in fatal collision in Howard County
A Silver Spring man died Sunday following a car crash that occurred Saturday morning in Howard County. Kyle Joseph Lancon, 19, of the 300 block of Stonegate Drive in Silver Spring, was driving a 2004 Honda Civic north in the southbound lanes of U.S. 29 north of Johns Hopkins Road in Laurel at about 2:52 a.m. Saturday, according to Howard County police. The Honda Civic struck a 2000 Toyota Camry, which was driven by 20-year-old John Park of Annandale, Va., police said. Both men were taken to the Maryland Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland in Baltimore. Lancon was pronounced dead on Sunday, and Park remains in critical condition. Police are investigating whether alcohol was a factor in the collision. SOURCE: Gazette
Police cruiser hits teen in Gaithersburg
The Gaithersburg Police Department confirms that a 14-year-old boy was struck by a police cruiser. The Associated Press reports that a teen was struck at about 3:15 p.m. as he crossed the intersection at Darnestown Road and Quince Orchard Road. Gaithersburg police said the teen was not in the crosswalk when he was struck. The teen was taken to a hospital for treatment for minor injuries. Police are still investigating the accident. SOURCE: NBC
Ehrlich & O'Malley debate #1
BALTIMORE - Education was the major topic as the candidates for Governor of Maryland squared off in their first face-to-face debate Monday morning in Baltimore. Governor Martin O’Malley, the Democratic incumbent is facing former Republican Governor Robert Ehrlich, who is seeking to reclaim the seat he lost to O’Malley in 2006.
The former governor said he would make Maryland more business friendly and attacked O’Malley’s record on job creation saying, “We have not created on new net job in this state over the past four years. That's a real problem. We’ve doubled our unemployment in fact, and that is a huge problem.”
Governor O’Malley acknowledged that Maryland has a long way to go to restore its job base that was lost in the recession, but said Ehrlich is ignoring gains made in new high technology sectors that the current administration has attracted to the state.
“The truth of the matter is we've created 33,000 net new jobs,” said O’Malley. “That’s not me saying that. That's Bureau of Labor Statistics and we have to continue to create jobs because we have deep hole to climb out of.”
The one-hour debate was taped at the studios of WJZ-TV in Baltimore. After both campaigns spent the summer in a statistical tie, O’Malley has been gaining momentum lately. The latest poll from Rasmussen Reports shows the current Governor leading 49 percent to 41 percent over Ehrlich, while The Washington Post’s Poll found O’Malley in the lead by 11 points. Election Day is November 2. SOURCE: FOX
The former governor said he would make Maryland more business friendly and attacked O’Malley’s record on job creation saying, “We have not created on new net job in this state over the past four years. That's a real problem. We’ve doubled our unemployment in fact, and that is a huge problem.”
Governor O’Malley acknowledged that Maryland has a long way to go to restore its job base that was lost in the recession, but said Ehrlich is ignoring gains made in new high technology sectors that the current administration has attracted to the state.
“The truth of the matter is we've created 33,000 net new jobs,” said O’Malley. “That’s not me saying that. That's Bureau of Labor Statistics and we have to continue to create jobs because we have deep hole to climb out of.”
The one-hour debate was taped at the studios of WJZ-TV in Baltimore. After both campaigns spent the summer in a statistical tie, O’Malley has been gaining momentum lately. The latest poll from Rasmussen Reports shows the current Governor leading 49 percent to 41 percent over Ehrlich, while The Washington Post’s Poll found O’Malley in the lead by 11 points. Election Day is November 2. SOURCE: FOX
Nifty-Fifty attracts NIH singer
The event was part of Nifty-Fifty, a program where 50 scientists will speak at schools in the D.C. area this month. NIH speaker Francis Collins performed a song for AP science students on 10/4/10.
October 11, 2010
Volunteer opportunities with MCYR
Below are the volunteer opportunities this week with the Montgomery County Young Republicans (Note that all events are open to EVERYONE of ALL ages);
- Thursday, October 14th - Volunteer Night at Victory Headquarters (718 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD) - 6pm dinner will be provided by the Montgomery County Young Republicans
-Saturday, October 16th - MCYR Campaign Day - headquarters for the day will be the home of Rachael Gingrich (2004 Baltimore Road, Apt C34, Rockville, MD 20851) - Breakfast and Lunch will be served by the MCYR's (ALL CANDIDATES WELCOME TO COORDINATE EFFORTS FOR THE DAY); Breakfast and coordination of the day's walking lists will begin promptly at 9 am.
- Thursday, October 14th - Volunteer Night at Victory Headquarters (718 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD) - 6pm dinner will be provided by the Montgomery County Young Republicans
-Saturday, October 16th - MCYR Campaign Day - headquarters for the day will be the home of Rachael Gingrich (2004 Baltimore Road, Apt C34, Rockville, MD 20851) - Breakfast and Lunch will be served by the MCYR's (ALL CANDIDATES WELCOME TO COORDINATE EFFORTS FOR THE DAY); Breakfast and coordination of the day's walking lists will begin promptly at 9 am.
Rockville Man Charged in Murder for Hire Plot
Rockville, Md. - Montgomery County police have charged a 42-year-old Rockville man with plotting to have his estranged wife killed. Police say Richard Boyd Jr. and his wife were getting divorced and Boyd offered acquaintance money to kill his wife. The acquaintance went to police last week and told them about the offer, saying Boyd offered to provide specific details to help carry out the killing. On Friday, police say the men met at Boyd' home and Boyd gave his acquaintance cash, five Oxycontin tablets and other items to help kill his estranged wife. Boyd was arrested Friday morning and charged with solicitation of first-degree murder and distribution of a controlled dangerous substance. He is being held without bond.
Kensington fireman commits suicide on train tracks
A man found dead near the train tracks in Kensington this morning has been identified as a lifetime member of the Kensington fire department and an emergency dispatcher for Montgomery County. Montgomery County police say they found the body of a man near the CSX tracks close to Howard Avenue and Fawcett Street around 10 a.m. today after receiving a call to check on his welfare. He apparently killed himself.
Police spokeswoman Angela Cruz said her department will not release details of what occurred but stated his death was not caused by a train. Second District Police Commander Russ Hamill, whose officers are assigned to the Kensington area, said it appears the man died within the past 12 to 15 hours. Kensington Volunteer Fire Department President Steven Semler said the man was a 19-year member of his department and worked as a dispatcher and firefighter for Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.
"He was a dedicated life member," he said.
The man's name has not been released due to the nature of his death, police said. The body has been turned over the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death. SOURCE: Gazette
Police spokeswoman Angela Cruz said her department will not release details of what occurred but stated his death was not caused by a train. Second District Police Commander Russ Hamill, whose officers are assigned to the Kensington area, said it appears the man died within the past 12 to 15 hours. Kensington Volunteer Fire Department President Steven Semler said the man was a 19-year member of his department and worked as a dispatcher and firefighter for Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service.
"He was a dedicated life member," he said.
The man's name has not been released due to the nature of his death, police said. The body has been turned over the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death. SOURCE: Gazette
Police Investigate A Double Fatal Pedestrian Collision
ROCKVILLE, Md - Montgomery County Police say two young men, both 26 years old, died after they were struck by a car on Rockville Pike early Sunday morning. Adam Joseph Hosinski and Rory Joseph Weichbrod were crossing near the White Flint Metro Station at Marinelli Road when they were hit by a 2010 Black Acura around 3:15 am.
“We heard brakes screech and then we heard this crash and someone laying on the horn for like five minutes,” Sam Hooper says. She and Rachel Stone had left the metro station and crossed the intersection just seconds before the two men.
“The impact was the thing,” Stone says. “Both of us jumped and grabbed onto each other, it was that loud.”
Police say the driver initially stopped, and may have offered assistance, but got back into his car and took a right turn on Old Georgetown Road before stopping again.
“At that point a witness to the collision stopped and spoke with the driver who told him to come back to the scene,” police spokesman Paul Starks says. “When the officers were speaking to him, it became evident to them that he may have alcohol in his system. He was arrested and processed for DUI.”
But Starks says it could take weeks before investigators can determine whether it was driver or pedestrian error that caused the accident.
“We’re going to be looking at this whole section of Rockville Pike,” says Montgomery County Pedestrian Safety Coordinator Jeff Dunckel says the crash happened on the edge of a known hot spot for pedestrian accidents along Rockville Pike. “We have cars moving at a higher rate of speed and this is where the more severe accidents happen.” SOURE: FOX
“We heard brakes screech and then we heard this crash and someone laying on the horn for like five minutes,” Sam Hooper says. She and Rachel Stone had left the metro station and crossed the intersection just seconds before the two men.
“The impact was the thing,” Stone says. “Both of us jumped and grabbed onto each other, it was that loud.”
Police say the driver initially stopped, and may have offered assistance, but got back into his car and took a right turn on Old Georgetown Road before stopping again.
“At that point a witness to the collision stopped and spoke with the driver who told him to come back to the scene,” police spokesman Paul Starks says. “When the officers were speaking to him, it became evident to them that he may have alcohol in his system. He was arrested and processed for DUI.”
But Starks says it could take weeks before investigators can determine whether it was driver or pedestrian error that caused the accident.
“We’re going to be looking at this whole section of Rockville Pike,” says Montgomery County Pedestrian Safety Coordinator Jeff Dunckel says the crash happened on the edge of a known hot spot for pedestrian accidents along Rockville Pike. “We have cars moving at a higher rate of speed and this is where the more severe accidents happen.” SOURE: FOX
Columbus Day Repairs Close Two Metro Stations
Metro is responding to National Transportation Safety Board recommendations by replacing four track switches over the long Columbus Day weekend. The Farragut West and McPherson Square stations on the Orange and Blue lines are closed through Monday, Oct. 11 for a major rehabilitation. There will be no Blue or Orange line service at Metro Center, either.
Normal service will return when the rail system opens Tuesday. Free shuttle buses will move passengers around the closures, running between Foggy Bottom-GWU, Farragut West, Farragut North, McPherson Square, Metro Center, Gallery Place and Federal Triangle.
The last trains from the ends of the Blue and Orange Lines will leave 30 minutes earlier than usual. On Monday night, the last Blue Line train will leave Franconia-Springfield at 10:59 p.m.; from Largo Town Center, it's 10:54 p.m. The last Orange Line train will depart Vienna/Fairfax-GMU at 10:55 p.m.; from New Carrollton, it's 11:06 p.m. The Red Line will have normal service, but riders should add 40 minutes to their trip time if passing through the work zone. SOURCE: NBC
The last trains from the ends of the Blue and Orange Lines will leave 30 minutes earlier than usual. On Monday night, the last Blue Line train will leave Franconia-Springfield at 10:59 p.m.; from Largo Town Center, it's 10:54 p.m. The last Orange Line train will depart Vienna/Fairfax-GMU at 10:55 p.m.; from New Carrollton, it's 11:06 p.m. The Red Line will have normal service, but riders should add 40 minutes to their trip time if passing through the work zone. SOURCE: NBC
Co-Workers and Friends Remember Kiela Ryan
GAITHERSBURG, Md. - In the two years Kiela Ryan worked at Main Street Tickets in Gaithersburg, she made quite an impression. Nicole Haskins is a family friend and had known Ryan since she was a baby.
"We sat right next to each other. A lot of high fives and stuff like that all the time," said Haskins.
Ryan was one of 16 workers and had just been promoted to team leader.
"She was an excellent co-worker, a great friend, always somebody you could to and talk to," said co-worker Chris McCasland.
"She was great at her job," said Lee Shenker, one of the owners of Main Street Tickets. "She had attention to detail, great with customers, great co-worker, never came in here grumpy, always smiling, long days working weekends, never a problem."
In fact, the only problem with this perfect employee was the fact she was a Dallas Cowboys fan in an office full of Washington Redskins fans.
"The last Cowboys-Redskins game, I actually did a video of her. She was running around the office and dancing, pumping up for the game and that was just Kiela," said co-worker Amanda Young.
On Thursday night, Ryan was out celebrating her 24th birthday with her brother and some friends. As they parked in Dupont Circle, in the blink of an eye, the celebration turned tragic.
"As we were getting out, I didn't actually see the hit, but when I turned around, she was lying on the ground and she wasn't moving," said Valerie Kressin, who was with Ryan that night.
As she was getting out, police say she was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver. SOURCE: FOX
"We sat right next to each other. A lot of high fives and stuff like that all the time," said Haskins.
Ryan was one of 16 workers and had just been promoted to team leader.
"She was an excellent co-worker, a great friend, always somebody you could to and talk to," said co-worker Chris McCasland.
"She was great at her job," said Lee Shenker, one of the owners of Main Street Tickets. "She had attention to detail, great with customers, great co-worker, never came in here grumpy, always smiling, long days working weekends, never a problem."
In fact, the only problem with this perfect employee was the fact she was a Dallas Cowboys fan in an office full of Washington Redskins fans.
"The last Cowboys-Redskins game, I actually did a video of her. She was running around the office and dancing, pumping up for the game and that was just Kiela," said co-worker Amanda Young.
On Thursday night, Ryan was out celebrating her 24th birthday with her brother and some friends. As they parked in Dupont Circle, in the blink of an eye, the celebration turned tragic.
"As we were getting out, I didn't actually see the hit, but when I turned around, she was lying on the ground and she wasn't moving," said Valerie Kressin, who was with Ryan that night.
As she was getting out, police say she was struck and killed by a hit-and-run driver. SOURCE: FOX
Gano's OT FG Gives Redskins 16-13 Win Over Packers
LANDOVER, Md. - The Green Bay Packers kept piling up the yards but couldn't score. The Washington Redskins were left with a surmountable deficit, which they overcame to win yet another game that came down to the last play. LaRon Landry's diving interception set up Graham Gano's 33-yard field goal 6:54 into overtime Sunday, and the Redskins battled back from a 10-point fourth-quarter hole for a 16-13 win over the Packers. The result left both teams with 3-2 records, but rebuilding Washington feels a whole lot giddier about its mark than a Green Bay team that's supposed to have Super Bowl aspirations.
Four of Washington's five games this season weren't decided until the final snap, including two that went to overtime and two that ended on passes thrown into the end zone at the end of regulation. This one came after the Redskins were thoroughly dominated for much of the game, the defense allowing 427 yards and the offense allowing Donovan McNabb to get sacked five times. SOURCE: FOX
Four of Washington's five games this season weren't decided until the final snap, including two that went to overtime and two that ended on passes thrown into the end zone at the end of regulation. This one came after the Redskins were thoroughly dominated for much of the game, the defense allowing 427 yards and the offense allowing Donovan McNabb to get sacked five times. SOURCE: FOX
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