WASHINGTON - With fellow Democrats balking, President Barack Obama declared Tuesday that a compromise with Republicans on tax cuts was necessary to help the economy and protect recession-weary Americans. He passionately defended his record against Democrats who complain he's breaking campaign promises.
"Take a tally. Look at what I promised during the campaign. There's not a single thing that I haven't done or tried to do," the president said.
He staunchly defended his decision to deal with the GOP in order to extend about-to-expire tax cuts for all Americans.
"There are some who would have preferred a protracted political fight," the president said at a White House news conference a day after the compromise was announced. "And I understand the desire for a fight. I'm sympathetic to that."
December 7, 2010
County Seeks New Inspector General
Montgomery County officials are actively searching for a new inspector general, hoping to replace a man who in nearly six years of service frequently sparred with county government leaders.
In one probe, Inspector General Thomas Dagley revealed the police department's failure to charge a former fire official who caused a four-car pile-up after allegedly driving while intoxicated. In another, he revealed police officers left the county force to accept lucrative work elsewhere while collecting hefty disability payments.
Dagley told county officials in August that he wanted to leave by early December, but said Monday that he would stay at least through late January as local leaders look for his replacement. Over the past few years, Dagley accused some county officials of interfering with his work and fought an effort by County Executive Ike Leggett to require the inspector general's office to report to the county executive's office, rather than the county council. SOURCE: Patch
In one probe, Inspector General Thomas Dagley revealed the police department's failure to charge a former fire official who caused a four-car pile-up after allegedly driving while intoxicated. In another, he revealed police officers left the county force to accept lucrative work elsewhere while collecting hefty disability payments.
Dagley told county officials in August that he wanted to leave by early December, but said Monday that he would stay at least through late January as local leaders look for his replacement. Over the past few years, Dagley accused some county officials of interfering with his work and fought an effort by County Executive Ike Leggett to require the inspector general's office to report to the county executive's office, rather than the county council. SOURCE: Patch
Maryland Announces Voluntary Separation Program in response to Budget Deficit
December 7, 2010
A Message from Governor O'Malley
Dear State Employee,
Over the last several years, we have reduced State spending by $5.6 billion and will have eliminated more than 4,200 State government positions. State employees have played crucial roles in identifying reductions and promoting efficiencies while sharing the burden through furloughs and temporary salary reductions. I truly appreciate your dedication, patience, sacrifice, and ingenuity as we have moved through this difficult process.
Despite these past efforts, as we look toward the future we must do what so many Maryland families are doing and find new ways to live within our means. In the case of State government, this means identifying additional opportunities for streamlining operations and reducing the size of the workforce.
As part of this effort, I have authorized a Voluntary Separation Program (VSP) for State employees, to be implemented immediately. Under this Program, I hope to continue to decrease the size of our workforce by allowing employees to voluntarily elect to leave State government. Application to the program is open to eligible employees within the Executive Branch of State government who voluntarily elect to separate from employment no later than January 31, 2011. Eligible employees who apply and are selected to participate will receive a lump sum severance payment of $15,000 and an additional service bonus of $200 per year for each year of service. Additionally, participants will receive three months of fully subsidized health benefits and payment for leave accrual in accordance with applicable law.
There is no doubt that many of you will have questions concerning this program. I encourage you to fully explore the informational materials available to you on the Department of Budget and Management's website. Please visit that website at http://dbm.maryland.gov and click the link to the Voluntary Separation Program. There you will find information on eligibility, the application process, due dates, and other program details. Additionally, you may call toll free at 855-500-4661 or 410-767-6831, to reach a State representative who will assist you in obtaining information that you may wish to consider as you make your decision about whether to apply to participate in the program.
Thank you again for all your work on behalf of Maryland's families.
Martin O’Malley
Governor
A Message from Governor O'Malley
Dear State Employee,
Over the last several years, we have reduced State spending by $5.6 billion and will have eliminated more than 4,200 State government positions. State employees have played crucial roles in identifying reductions and promoting efficiencies while sharing the burden through furloughs and temporary salary reductions. I truly appreciate your dedication, patience, sacrifice, and ingenuity as we have moved through this difficult process.
Despite these past efforts, as we look toward the future we must do what so many Maryland families are doing and find new ways to live within our means. In the case of State government, this means identifying additional opportunities for streamlining operations and reducing the size of the workforce.
As part of this effort, I have authorized a Voluntary Separation Program (VSP) for State employees, to be implemented immediately. Under this Program, I hope to continue to decrease the size of our workforce by allowing employees to voluntarily elect to leave State government. Application to the program is open to eligible employees within the Executive Branch of State government who voluntarily elect to separate from employment no later than January 31, 2011. Eligible employees who apply and are selected to participate will receive a lump sum severance payment of $15,000 and an additional service bonus of $200 per year for each year of service. Additionally, participants will receive three months of fully subsidized health benefits and payment for leave accrual in accordance with applicable law.
There is no doubt that many of you will have questions concerning this program. I encourage you to fully explore the informational materials available to you on the Department of Budget and Management's website. Please visit that website at http://dbm.maryland.gov and click the link to the Voluntary Separation Program. There you will find information on eligibility, the application process, due dates, and other program details. Additionally, you may call toll free at 855-500-4661 or 410-767-6831, to reach a State representative who will assist you in obtaining information that you may wish to consider as you make your decision about whether to apply to participate in the program.
Thank you again for all your work on behalf of Maryland's families.
Martin O’Malley
Governor
Van Eperen & Company Recognized for Successful Media Relations by Largest Chapter of The International Association of Business Communicators
Bethesda, Md. – Van Eperen & Company (VE & Co., www.veandco.com), a woman-owned small business specializing in customized communications that achieve renowned results, was recently honored with an Award of Merit for a highly successful client media relations plan by the International Association of Business Communicators- DC Metro (IABC/DC Metro) chapter. The honor is VE & Co.’s fifth Silver Inkwell honor.
“Considering the 40 percent increase in award submissions this year, we’re proud that the acknowledgment highlights VE & Co.’s ability to think creatively to develop effective media relations plans that helps organizations raise their visibility and boosts their bottom line,” said Laura Van Eperen, CEO.
The award-winning media relations plan was developed for Payroll Network, the leading local provider of payroll processing and human resource services to companies in Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland. The media relations plan took a proactive approach to reaching Payroll Networks audiences, yielding a 32 percent increase in attendance at Payroll Network’s event. VE & Co. achieved 73 media placements over a six-month period with an estimated reach of 83 million people. The increased company awareness , in part led to new leads for the sales team and more website traffic.
“Van Eperen & Company has been a major part of our company’s growth this past year,” said George Whitehouse, senior vice president of Sales and Marketing at Payroll Network. “In addition to helping us create greater awareness of our firm, they have helped us strategically communicate about our competitive difference and be able to successfully compete and win against the larger national payroll providers in our market.”
With nearly 600 members, IABC/DC Metro is the largest IABC chapter in the United States, and the second largest in the world. The organization consists of a diverse group of communicators who work in the public and private sectors as consultants, independent business owners, and corporate staff in such diverse fields as marketing, advertising, corporate communications, government relations, human resource communications and shareholder relations. With 150 entries this year, the Silver Inkwell Awards are the organization’s signature program for peer recognition of outstanding work in several categories. Other honorees included Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, the Maryland Lottery, the Transportation Security Administration and Holy Cross Hospital.
About Van Eperen & Company Van Eperen & Company is an award-winning marketing and communications consulting firm that provides strategic counsel to public and private organizations. VE & Co. is a woman-owned MBE and MDOT-certified business and authorized to provide professional services to the government through the GSA schedule. Founded in 2004 to deliver exceptional results to clients, the company holds steadfast with its commitment to exceed client expectations, while keeping ethics and social responsibility at the forefront of every endeavor. For more information, contact Laura Van Eperen at laurav@veandco.com or (301) 581-7298, or visit www.veandco.com.
PICTURE: Above: Jennifer Strohm (left), Vice President of VE & Co., and Lizz Durante (center), Vice President of Marketing for Payroll Network, accept the IABC/DC Metro Silver Inkwell award from Dr. Mark Drapeau (right), Director of Public Sector Social Engagement at Microsoft, who was the speaker at the Silver Inkwell gala.
17th Council to Meet Officially for First Time on Tuesday, Dec. 7.
ROCKVILLE, Md., December 6, 2010—Montgomery County’s 17th County will meet officially for the first time on Tuesday, Dec. 7, and will begin with election of new officers for one-year terms. The new Council, which was elected in November, was sworn in at inauguration ceremonies today at Rockville High School. The Council’s morning session will include an extensive discussion of a report that will be released at the session by the Council’s Office of Legislative Oversight. The report is the second part of a report on “Achieving a Structurally Balanced Budget in Montgomery County.” Part I of the report was discussed on Nov. 23. It identified the driving forces behind the County’s continuing budget problems. Part II of the report presents options that could be considered to address the problems.
The Council’s general session will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The meeting and today’s public hearings will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon) and also will be available via streaming through the County Web site at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. The meeting will be rebroadcast on CCM at 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 10.
The 17th Council includes returning Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin, Nancy Floreen, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro. Craig Rice and Hans Riemer are beginning their first terms. The OLO report on “Options for Long-Term Fiscal Balance” is scheduled to be discussed at 10:30 a.m. It will include a variety of options that the Council could consider adopting to address the structural budget challenge that has led to problems in achieving a balanced operating budget in recent years and that will lead to additional problems in future years.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will conduct six public hearings. One of the hearings concerns Expedited Bill 57-10 that involves the interest arbitration method of resolving disputes over the terms and conditions of a new collective bargaining agreement. Under current County law, the arbitrator makes an award after considering six factors, including the County’s ability to pay as one of the six. The law does not require the arbitrator to place greater weight on any one of the factors and does not require the arbitrator to consider all six of the factors. Bill 57-10, whose chief sponsor is Councilmember Valerie Ervin, would require the arbitrator to evaluate and give the highest priority to the County’s ability to pay for economic provisions before considering the other five factors.
There have been 17 impasses with County employee unions resolved by interest arbitration since 1988. Arbitrators have rules in favor of the union positions 12 times and in favor of the County position four times. In another case, the County agreed to the union position after the arbitration hearing. At 3 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, Bill 57-10 will be discussed by the Council’s new Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) Committee. Nancy Navarro is chair of the committee, which includes Councilmembers Ervin and Hans Riemer.
The Council’s general session will begin at 9:30 a.m. in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The meeting and today’s public hearings will be televised live by County Cable Montgomery (CCM—Cable Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon) and also will be available via streaming through the County Web site at www.montgomerycountymd.gov. The meeting will be rebroadcast on CCM at 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 10.
The 17th Council includes returning Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Roger Berliner, Marc Elrich, Valerie Ervin, Nancy Floreen, George Leventhal and Nancy Navarro. Craig Rice and Hans Riemer are beginning their first terms. The OLO report on “Options for Long-Term Fiscal Balance” is scheduled to be discussed at 10:30 a.m. It will include a variety of options that the Council could consider adopting to address the structural budget challenge that has led to problems in achieving a balanced operating budget in recent years and that will lead to additional problems in future years.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will conduct six public hearings. One of the hearings concerns Expedited Bill 57-10 that involves the interest arbitration method of resolving disputes over the terms and conditions of a new collective bargaining agreement. Under current County law, the arbitrator makes an award after considering six factors, including the County’s ability to pay as one of the six. The law does not require the arbitrator to place greater weight on any one of the factors and does not require the arbitrator to consider all six of the factors. Bill 57-10, whose chief sponsor is Councilmember Valerie Ervin, would require the arbitrator to evaluate and give the highest priority to the County’s ability to pay for economic provisions before considering the other five factors.
There have been 17 impasses with County employee unions resolved by interest arbitration since 1988. Arbitrators have rules in favor of the union positions 12 times and in favor of the County position four times. In another case, the County agreed to the union position after the arbitration hearing. At 3 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, Bill 57-10 will be discussed by the Council’s new Government Operations and Fiscal Policy (GO) Committee. Nancy Navarro is chair of the committee, which includes Councilmembers Ervin and Hans Riemer.
Evan Kullberg, 23, killed in Frostburg State Univ. fire
Two college students from the Washington area were killed Friday in a fire at the off-campus apartment they shared while attending Frostburg State University, in Frostburg, Md., authorities said. They were identified as Evan Kullberg, 23, who graduated from Seneca Valley High School in Montgomery County, and Alyssa Salazar, who graduated from Broadneck High School in Anne Arundel County.
"They were really outstanding young kids who really loved each other and took care of each other to the very end," Kullberg's mother, Karol, said Monday night.
He was a go-getter, a member of the National Guard and an entrepreneur who was part-owner of a pizza parlor in the building where the students lived. She was an early education major and "a really outstanding young woman," Karol Kullberg said. The Maryland state fire marshal's office said the blaze was accidental and caused by an overheated flue pipe that ran from a wood stove out through a wall in the first floor of the building. The blaze spread to an adjacent apartment and up to the students' second-floor quarters, the fire marshal's office said.
The two were found in their apartment by firefighters about 4:20 a.m. Friday, the fire marshal's office said. Their deaths were attributed to smoke inhalation. SOURCE: Washington Post
UPDATE: As family members of a Seneca Valley High School graduate who died in a fire Friday struggle to cope with their loss, they are planning a service to celebrate his life. Evan Kullberg, 23, formerly of Germantown, died Friday morning after a fire broke out in a two-story apartment complex on Main Street in Frostburg, according to Bruce D. Bouch, a spokesman with the Office of the State Fire Marshal. Alyssa Salazar, 20, of Annapolis, was also killed.
"We're hanging in there obviously," his sister, Kathryn Kullberg, said Saturday from the family's home in Gaithersburg. "We're having a hard time, but we feel very warm and touched by all the caring thoughts and prayers from everyone Evan has touched."
The Kullbergs are planning a memorial service for Evan, but have yet to determine the date or location. Kathryn Kullberg said they are not referring to the service as a funeral, but rather a celebration of Evan's life. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but fire officials believe it originated in a common area in the back of the apartment building on the first floor; a wood stove is being considered as a possible cause, Bouch said. Autopsies for Kullberg and Salazar were scheduled for Saturday, but emergency responders believe they likely died from smoke inhalation.
A business major with a love for paintball and electric guitar, Evan Kullberg, a senior at Frostburg State University, co-owned a pizzeria called Malino's Pizza, his sister said. The pizzeria was housed in the space below his second-floor apartment. Kullberg and Salazar were in their apartment and Salazar had called 911 twice before losing contact with responders, Bouch said. Ten other occupants were able to escape from the burning building unharmed, while three rescue officials were injured trying to extinguish the blaze. Bouch said damages are estimated at $200,000.
Evan Kullberg was a member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps and later joined the Maryland National Guard, Kathryn Kullberg said.
Originally from New Jersey, Kullberg and his family moved to Germantown when he was in the first grade. When his father died seven years ago, Kullberg, despite being the youngest of three children, stepped up and became the man of the house, Kathryn said.
[SNIP]
A memorial vigil for Kullberg and Salazar is scheduled at 6 p.m. Sunday on the Frostburg University Campus at the Cordts Physical Education Center Main Arena. SOURCE: Gazette
Pepco Rates To Increase For Better Reliability
WASHINGTON - It doesn't take a snowstorm for Pepco customers to lose power. Day to day, the utility is among the least reliable in the nation. Now the company wants customers to foot the bill for improvements by raising rates.
Yet Pepco's not making any guarantees if another big snowstorm hits. Despite any improvements, Pepco Region President Thomas Graham said "that doesn't make the system bulletproof." If we get another major winter storm, he suggested people need to "level their expectations" about how long they'll be without power.
O'Malley e-mails state employees link to Times story on states' budget crises
In an apparent bid to brace state employees for looming budget cuts, Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley on Monday e-mailed them some recommended reading: a New York Times story about states facing crises because of their debt loads.
"I hope you will take a few minutes to read it to get a sense of the difficult choices that states are faced with this year," O'Malley (D) wrote. "While Maryland has fared better than most, we still face significant budget challenges in the year ahead. As we have in past years, I look forward to working in partnership with you, in an honest and open way, to address these budget challenges and protect our priorities."
The Sunday Times story says that states could face even larger problems than budget gaps of recent years, warning that "even when the economy recovers, the shortfalls will not disappear, because many state and local governments have so much debt -- several trillion dollars' worth, with much of it off the books and largely hidden from view -- that it could overwhelm them in the next few years."
O'Malley is required to submit a balanced budget for the 2012 fiscal year in January. Aides suggest he will start previewing some of the difficult decisions that Maryland faces in the days and weeks ahead. His email to state employees made no mention of any potential cuts. SOURCE: Washington Post
December 6, 2010
MISSING: Montgomery County police seek Margaret Anyanso
Montgomery County police are asking for the public's help finding a woman who hasn't been seen in a week.
Forty-six-year-old Margaret Anyanso was last seen at her Germantown home about 10 a.m. Nov. 28.
She is described as a black female, five feet three inches tall, 140 pounds, with brown eyes, and short brown hair. Anyanso was last seen driving a silver 2007 Toyota Camry with Maryland registration 9CJD64.
Police and her family are very concerned for her well-being. Foul play is not suspected, police said..
Anyone with information is asked to call the Montgomery County Police at 240-773-6237 or the police non-emergency number at 301-279-8000. SOURCE: TBD
Republicans seeking officer positions for MDGOP
List of candidates running for officer positions with the Maryland Republican Party.
Chairman
Mary Kane MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Alex Mooney FREDERICK COUNTY
Sam Hale MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Bill Campbell HOWARD COUNTY
Mike Esteve BALTIMORE CITY
NOTE: Two credible people within the Maryland Republican Party have told me Alex Mooney is running for chairman
First Vice Chairman
Diana Waterman QUEEN ANNE'S COUNTY
Moshe Starkman MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Second Vice Chairman
Larry Helminiak CARROLL COUNTY
Brandon Butler GARRETT COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Third Vice Chairman
Collins Bailey CHARLES COUNTY
Pat Parker CALVERT COUNTY
Brian Griffiths ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
Matt Teffeau CAROLINE COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Meyer Marks MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Adol Owen-Williams MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Treasurer
Chris Rosenthal (incumbent) ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
Mark Uncapher MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Secretary
Nora Keenan ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
John Wafer HOWARD COUNTY
CANDIDATES: Please email me the links to each official page, so I can update them. Also, stay tuned for updates to this page. In addition, Debbie Rey is running for three positions (not for one).
Chairman
Mary Kane MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Alex Mooney FREDERICK COUNTY
Sam Hale MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Bill Campbell HOWARD COUNTY
Mike Esteve BALTIMORE CITY
NOTE: Two credible people within the Maryland Republican Party have told me Alex Mooney is running for chairman
First Vice Chairman
Diana Waterman QUEEN ANNE'S COUNTY
Moshe Starkman MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Second Vice Chairman
Larry Helminiak CARROLL COUNTY
Brandon Butler GARRETT COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Third Vice Chairman
Collins Bailey CHARLES COUNTY
Pat Parker CALVERT COUNTY
Brian Griffiths ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
Matt Teffeau CAROLINE COUNTY
Debbie Rey ST. MARY'S COUNTY
Meyer Marks MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Adol Owen-Williams MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Treasurer
Chris Rosenthal (incumbent) ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
Mark Uncapher MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Secretary
Nora Keenan ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY
John Wafer HOWARD COUNTY
CANDIDATES: Please email me the links to each official page, so I can update them. Also, stay tuned for updates to this page. In addition, Debbie Rey is running for three positions (not for one).
Council Members Would Put Toto's Tether on a Timer
Tied-up dogs may soon feel some relief in Montgomery County, but not as much as sought by County Executive Ike Leggett. Leggett (D) hoped to prohibit owners from leaving their dogs tethered in their yards, unless the owner was outside with the animal and able to keep an eye on it. The county council's three-person public safety panel Thursday endorsed tightening the current regulations for tying up Toto, but it didn't go as far as Leggett hoped.
The committee wants the county to limit dog owners to two hours of outside tethering a day that must occur between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Current county law prohibits tethering animals outside between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
"That is an extraordinarily long time to have a dog tethered, it can raise all sorts of problems," Councilman Phil Andrews said of the 16-hour block of time between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
"There has been a lot of information provided that says that it is not only cruel to dogs but also detrimental to public safety because of the potential affect on a dog's behavior," he said.
Andrews, and fellow Council Members Marc Elrich and Roger Berliner—who make up the public safety panel—also want to require owners to use a swivel leash intended to avoid entanglement. SOURCE: North Potomac Patch
The committee wants the county to limit dog owners to two hours of outside tethering a day that must occur between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Current county law prohibits tethering animals outside between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
"That is an extraordinarily long time to have a dog tethered, it can raise all sorts of problems," Councilman Phil Andrews said of the 16-hour block of time between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
"There has been a lot of information provided that says that it is not only cruel to dogs but also detrimental to public safety because of the potential affect on a dog's behavior," he said.
Andrews, and fellow Council Members Marc Elrich and Roger Berliner—who make up the public safety panel—also want to require owners to use a swivel leash intended to avoid entanglement. SOURCE: North Potomac Patch
Inauguration Day for Montgomery County officials (all Democrats)
Good morning. It's Monday and it's inauguration day in Montgomery and Prince George's counties, where some new faces will join familiar ones on county councils and in the county executive's office. More details on the ceremonies and inaugural balls below. Leggett's second term. In Montgomery, County Executive Isiah Leggett will be sworn in for his second term. Montgomery held its inaugural ball Sunday night at the Hilton in Rockville. Money raised from the event will help fund arts and humanities programs in a county that's currently grappling with a budget shortfall of more than $300 million. We'll have live coverage of both swearing-in ceremonies so be sure to check back with us later in the day.
SOURCE: Washington Post
Seniors mull over trademark license fee at Leisure World
Residents of Leisure World in Silver Spring might be forced to abandon the long-standing name of "active adult" community and its landmark steel globe if they aren't willing to pay for the right to use them. Leisure World has been a Montgomery County fixture for 44 years, and its 8,500 residents are considered one of Maryland's most potent political forces.
But the daughter of Leisure World's developer says her company owns the trademark to the globe and name. After providing more than 40 years of free use, the company needs to protect its rights to the brand, which earns fees from real estate agents around the country who advertise themselves as "Leisure World specialists," she says. Now the Leisure World board of directors is surveying residents to determine whether they want to pay a licensing fee or choose a new name. Both options would cost the community money, a recent letter to residents said, including $35,000 already spent in legal fees.
"We have a 45-year investment in the name," said Marian Altman, 65, chairwoman of Leisure World's board of directors.
Sure, she's heard the jokes about "Seizure World." Still, Altman said, "It's known across the state, especially with the politicians. . . . In Annapolis, they know Leisure World votes." SOURCE: Washington Post
But the daughter of Leisure World's developer says her company owns the trademark to the globe and name. After providing more than 40 years of free use, the company needs to protect its rights to the brand, which earns fees from real estate agents around the country who advertise themselves as "Leisure World specialists," she says. Now the Leisure World board of directors is surveying residents to determine whether they want to pay a licensing fee or choose a new name. Both options would cost the community money, a recent letter to residents said, including $35,000 already spent in legal fees.
"We have a 45-year investment in the name," said Marian Altman, 65, chairwoman of Leisure World's board of directors.
Sure, she's heard the jokes about "Seizure World." Still, Altman said, "It's known across the state, especially with the politicians. . . . In Annapolis, they know Leisure World votes." SOURCE: Washington Post
December 5, 2010
LETTER: MCGOP chairman makes bid for MDGOP treasurer; demands financial transparency
As I hope you know, I am a candidate for State Party Treasurer at the State Party Convention on December 11.
You are likely to have received an email last Wednesday night from Sharon Carrick of Queen Anne's County requesting that I provide additional details from me about my concerns about MD GOP's past financial transparency.
These are matters I take seriously. Over the course of my professional career, in addition to being a lawyer, I have served in a variety of financial management positions in both the public and private sector. My past work includes:
· Responsible for providing staff review of New York City's financial plan for the state's Financial Control Board as Assistant Counsel to the New York State Comptroller,
· Executive at a publicly-held national newspaper and broadcasting company and counsel for and co-owner of a smaller market broadcast property,
· Managing the technical accounting staff responsible for contractor financial reporting; compliance and financial audits for a $500 million entity, and
· Serving as the principal staff member for congressional oversight of the federal Inspectors General and Chief Financial Officers as Counsel to the House Subcommittee on Government Management.
While I appreciate that others may disagree with me, frankly I am not satisfied with the state party’s current status quo. Given the financial and leadership turmoil the party faced during the past four year and results of the past election, an appeal to continue “past practice” seems out of place.
Let me provide that information that Sharon requested.
The attached series of emails below, beginning with Chris Cavey, but then between the incumbent Treasurer and me highlights one significant aspect of my concerns about the current State Party leadership's continuing lack of transparency and candor with its own board members.
In July 2009 prior to a critical Executive Committee meeting Chris Cavey encouraged State Executive Committee members to contact the incumbent Treasurer to learn more about the party's financial position. Yet when I tried to do so, he effectively contradicted Chris Cavey. At a time when the party leadership needed unvarnished information about our finances, as an Executive Committee member, I could not get the specific detail requested from the Treasurer.
Yet just a few weeks later I learned that the incumbent Treasurer was actively contemplating in the making a recommendation that the Maryland State Republican Party consider seek bankruptcy "protection."
Such an action would have placed our party at the complete mercy of a Federal bankruptcy judge. While the court could have left the existing leadership in place, a judge would also have had the full authority to place our state party under the control of a trustee appointed by the court. In fact, the judge would have had very broad discretion in ordering this external control.
This could have meant that every single expenditure made by Maryland State Republican Party in this election year would have subject to the control of an outside individual appointed by a judge. In such an environment, it is hard for me to see how we could ever have done any further fund raising whatsoever. As dire our straits were at the outset of such a process, it could well have only gotten worse.
A bankruptcy filing would also have presented some significant legal challenges concerning how Federal law would interact with our unique legal status under the Maryland State Election law. That could have prevented a number of the remedies under bankruptcy law from being used.
There would also have been some significant additional governance challenges to our seeking bankruptcy given the subsidiary status of the Executive Committee and Executive Board to the full State Central Committee. While a board of directors of corporation can act on its behalf, I do not believe that the two "Executive" entities enjoy a comparable status under state law in relationship to the State Central Committee.
The political consequences would have been even worse. Surely Maryland Republicans would have forfeited any credibility as advocates of financial discipline.
More to the point, though, I do not understand how a Treasurer can go from declining to share requested financial information with a board member immediately prior to a critical meeting taking up leadership issues to only a few weeks later exploring bankruptcy as an option.
The State Party Treasurer’s responsibilities are much broader than that of a bookkeeper or financial record keeper. Given both the compliance environment the party exists in and our party’s history of running afoul of those requirements, our Treasurer should better understand the legal consequences of the choices we consider. Second, the Treasurer needs to effectively communicate the party financial circumstances to all its stakeholders.
Mark Uncapher
Montgomery County Republican Chairman
Chevy Chase sinkhole swallows car
CHEVY CHASE, Md. - When Peter De Gajary got to his Bethesda home Thursday night, all he wanted to do was find the best parking spot at his building.
"There was a woman in front of me coming out of North Park going to Friendship Boulevard and she got the parking space in the back of the line of cars that I would have gotten," said De Gajary.
So he parked in another spot that appeared to be even better. When he got up the next day, it started out as a typical morning, but the water was out.
"So you try to get ready for the day without any water. Do it, manage it somehow. I don't exactly look as if I took a shower and shaved, but that's par for the course," he said.
After breakfast, he grabbed his briefcase and headed to his car.
"When I kind of turned around, I knew with all the emergency vehicles there, that it was a pretty bad scene, that this is pretty bad and I parked there. More than likely, I’m somehow going to be the epicenter,” said De Gajary.
It turns out he was right. A giant sinkhole swallowed up his Toyota Corolla.
"It was shocking, stunning," he said about his reaction to the scene.
He says his boss laughed and his insurance agent told him she had never dealt with anything like this before so she had to get a supervisor. The Toyota Corolla, with more than 200,000 miles that was given to him five years ago by his late father, had been stuck for two hours in water in a sinkhole. But De Gajary isn't the least bit upset.
"At the end of the day, just have a good laugh no matter what it is that happens to you," he said.
On Monday, the insurance company will determine if the car is worth keeping.
"There was a woman in front of me coming out of North Park going to Friendship Boulevard and she got the parking space in the back of the line of cars that I would have gotten," said De Gajary.
So he parked in another spot that appeared to be even better. When he got up the next day, it started out as a typical morning, but the water was out.
"So you try to get ready for the day without any water. Do it, manage it somehow. I don't exactly look as if I took a shower and shaved, but that's par for the course," he said.
After breakfast, he grabbed his briefcase and headed to his car.
"When I kind of turned around, I knew with all the emergency vehicles there, that it was a pretty bad scene, that this is pretty bad and I parked there. More than likely, I’m somehow going to be the epicenter,” said De Gajary.
It turns out he was right. A giant sinkhole swallowed up his Toyota Corolla.
"It was shocking, stunning," he said about his reaction to the scene.
He says his boss laughed and his insurance agent told him she had never dealt with anything like this before so she had to get a supervisor. The Toyota Corolla, with more than 200,000 miles that was given to him five years ago by his late father, had been stuck for two hours in water in a sinkhole. But De Gajary isn't the least bit upset.
"At the end of the day, just have a good laugh no matter what it is that happens to you," he said.
On Monday, the insurance company will determine if the car is worth keeping.
December 4, 2010
POWER: Montgomery County schools trump City of Rockville
Superintendent Jerry Weast wants 2 more classroom trailers at College Gardens Elementary School.
The City of Rockville said no.
Superintendent Weast put the trailers on the school grounds anyway. He will have the Board of Education vote to open the trailers to children on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 in defiance of the City of Rockville. The only thing interesting about this is that the Superintendent is actually asking for the Board of Education to take a public vote. What will the vote be? 8-1 in favor? SOURCE: Parents' Coalition
The City of Rockville said no.
Superintendent Weast put the trailers on the school grounds anyway. He will have the Board of Education vote to open the trailers to children on Tuesday, December 7, 2010 in defiance of the City of Rockville. The only thing interesting about this is that the Superintendent is actually asking for the Board of Education to take a public vote. What will the vote be? 8-1 in favor? SOURCE: Parents' Coalition
MOCO Committee Recommends Amendments to Dog Tethering Regulation
ROCKVILLE, Md., December 3, 2010—The Montgomery County Council’s Public Safety Committee on Thursday, Dec. 2, recommended several amendments to Executive Regulation 10-10 that as originally proposed would have required dog owners to stay in the visual range of their tethered dogs. The committee’s recommendations aim to simultaneously provide adequate anti-cruelty protections for dogs and maintain a safe environment for County residents.
The Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Councilmember Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Roger Berliner and Marc Elrich, decided not to support aspects of County Executive Isiah Leggett’s original proposal that tightened tethering regulations. Because the committee deemed that requiring dog owners to stay outside and within visual contact of the dog was unreasonable, it made its own recommendations for how best to protect the public and the animals. The proposed amendments were as follows:
• Dogs could only be tethered between 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Dogs could only be tethered for a maximum of two hours per day
• No dog could be tethered between 8 p.m. – 8 a.m.
• Owners must use swivels at the ends of the tether to avoid the dog’s entanglement
“Our main concern is that if a dog is tethered in a cruel or harmful way, it is not only detrimental to the dog’s well being, but it also jeopardizes public safety,” Councilmember Andrews said. “A dog that has been treated cruelly will have a bad temperament, which will consequently endanger the public.”
In addition to the provisions about staying within visual contact of a tethered dog, Executive Regulation 10-10 outlined the safe transportation of dogs, the sufficient shelter parameters and the conditions under which dogs may be tied to a stationary or immobile object.
In 2009, residents reported to Animal Control 116 cases related to tethering violations. Animal Control also found unlawful tethering violations through calls related to other animal welfare violations.
Since 2002, when the County adopted its first regulations regarding tethering, owners have been banned from continuously tethering their dogs, especially during certain hours of the night. Councilmember Andrews supported additional limits on the number of hours per day that a dog could stay tethered.
Outside dogs must have shelters that allow them to stand up and turn around while inside, but still allow them to warm the interior of the structure and retain their body heat. Furthermore, outdoor enclosures for dogs must be at least 100 square feet, except that dogs over 80 pounds must have at least 150 square feet. An additional 50 feet is required for each additional dog kept within the same enclosed area. Owners must maintain the area in a sanitary condition and keep it free from debris or stored material.
The regulation also specifies that no cat may be tethered, chained, fastened, tied or restrained to a house, tree, fence or other object.
The Public Safety Committee’s recommendations on the proposed regulation will be considered by the full Council at a later date.
Streetcar passes markup, but under consideration for cuts
A DC Council committee unanimously approved the streetcar approval resolution at a markup session this morning, but sources say Gray's budget staff and transition team are considering the program for cuts. Nothing has been decided, but the Gray's Council budget office believes that they still need to make additional capital cuts for FY11 beyond those proposed in Mayor Fenty's budget, and the streetcar is one program being considered.
Earlier this year, the Council approved the streetcar program, but required DDOT to conduct some more extensive planning to move forward. Passing the resolution marked up this morning, the Streetcar Project Comprehensive Plan Approval Resolution of 2010, will release the last $34.5 million to build the H Street-Benning Road line. SOURCE: Greater Greater Washington
Earlier this year, the Council approved the streetcar program, but required DDOT to conduct some more extensive planning to move forward. Passing the resolution marked up this morning, the Streetcar Project Comprehensive Plan Approval Resolution of 2010, will release the last $34.5 million to build the H Street-Benning Road line. SOURCE: Greater Greater Washington
Road Crews Put Down Wrong Chemicals, Slick Roads Cause Accidents
Traffic crews trying to get a Maryland highway ready for winter put down the wrong chemicals Friday morning.
The error caused slick conditions on the road and at least 10 accidents.
Dave Buck with Maryland State Highway confirms the bad mix of chemicals were applied near Georgia Avenue on I-495.
Crews were supposed to apply only salt brine, but liquid magnesium was somehow mixed into one batch of the brine. Two trucks at different locations were loaded with the brine-magnesium mixture.
The contractor’s trucks with the bad mixture has been identified.
Maryland State Highway is investigating. Trucks with only salt brine went over the affected roads again to try and correct the problem.
The area affected with the bad mix included the overpasses and bridges on 495 between Route 650 and Route 270.
December 3, 2010
Facts about MOCO schools
The following information has been provided courtesy of the MCPS Public Information Office.
Number of MCPS employees who earn more than $100,000 per year: 2,465
Number of MCPS employees who earn more than $70,000 per year: 8,028
Highest paid school principal: Michael Doran (Wootton High School): $150,123
Total number of MCPS employees (includes part-time employees): 21,432
SOURCE: Parents' Coalition
Number of MCPS employees who earn more than $100,000 per year: 2,465
Number of MCPS employees who earn more than $70,000 per year: 8,028
Highest paid school principal: Michael Doran (Wootton High School): $150,123
Total number of MCPS employees (includes part-time employees): 21,432
SOURCE: Parents' Coalition
NRCC treasurer Christopher Ward sentenced to 37 months for stealing $844,000
A federal judge sentenced Christopher J. Ward to 37 months in prison on Thursday for stealing more than $844,000 from the National Republican Congressional Committee and other political fundraising committees for which he worked as treasurer.
"I am truly sorry for what I did and I take full responsibility," said Ward, 42, formerly of Bethesda.
"This is a serious offense. . . . You stole from small donor funds that worked to engage in political debate and the electoral process," said U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly of the District. She added, "I'm not sure what happened to you, but you clearly lost your moral compass."
Kollar-Kotelly ordered Ward to forfeit $844,718, including $812,825 in restitution, which takes into account repayments already made. Ward, divorced from his wife and mother of their three children, ages 5 through 12, has turned over about $300,000, including proceeds from his house, and has no assets. The judge ordered him to pay back $150 a month upon release in addition to tax and child support obligations.
Ward served as treasurer for 83 GOP committees in a decade, including at the NRCC from 2003 until 2008, and admitted stealing funds for seven years before being discovered in 2008. The cash augmented an income that eventually topped $300,000 a year, paying for country club and private school tuition fees, home remodeling projects and vacation rentals. He will begin his sentence in January. SOURCE: Washington Post
"I am truly sorry for what I did and I take full responsibility," said Ward, 42, formerly of Bethesda.
"This is a serious offense. . . . You stole from small donor funds that worked to engage in political debate and the electoral process," said U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly of the District. She added, "I'm not sure what happened to you, but you clearly lost your moral compass."
Kollar-Kotelly ordered Ward to forfeit $844,718, including $812,825 in restitution, which takes into account repayments already made. Ward, divorced from his wife and mother of their three children, ages 5 through 12, has turned over about $300,000, including proceeds from his house, and has no assets. The judge ordered him to pay back $150 a month upon release in addition to tax and child support obligations.
Ward served as treasurer for 83 GOP committees in a decade, including at the NRCC from 2003 until 2008, and admitted stealing funds for seven years before being discovered in 2008. The cash augmented an income that eventually topped $300,000 a year, paying for country club and private school tuition fees, home remodeling projects and vacation rentals. He will begin his sentence in January. SOURCE: Washington Post
Wheaton’s new tallest building
Wheaton has the potential to be a pedestrian downtown as good as Silver Spring or Bethesda, but for years redevelopment there has been slow to catch on. That may no longer be the case, thanks to what could be a game-changing new development there.
Montgomery County recently approved plans for a 17-story mixed-use building at the corner of Georgia Ave and Reedie Drive on the site of an existing Safeway grocery store, directly across the street from Wheaton Metro. The plan calls for a new, larger Safeway to occupy the ground floor of a 486-unit, 195-foot-tall apartment building. It will be almost twice as tall as any existing building in Wheaton, and will be the most notable Transit Oriented Development in Wheaton’s history.
More information is available via the site plan approval (pdf). SOURCE: Beyond DC
Multiple Accidents Tie Up Maryland Beltway
(WUSA) -- Maryland State Police were kept busy Friday morning with at least 6 accidents on the Beltway near Georgia Ave.
The latest incident is on the Outer Loop just before the Mormon Temple. SOURCE: WUSA
Montgomery County news blurbs
From the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center www.montgomerycountymd.gov/bcc
Coffee and Conversation with Ken Hartman, Director of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center. Find out about programs and services in Montgomery County, learn more about the Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board and their role in the community, or just bring your concerns from your community to discuss. Friday, December 3, 2010 any time between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon ˆBethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814
Montgomery County Council approves White Flint infrastructure financing plan. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Council/PressRelease/PR_details.asp?PrID=7112
Driver of Marcum‚s Stolen Vehicle Extradited to Montgomery County Detectives from the Montgomery County Police Major Crimes Division Homicide/Sex Section are continuing to investigate the murder of Sue Ann Marcum, age 52, from the 6200 block of Massachusetts Avenue in Bethesda.
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Police/News/NA_details.asp?NaID=5723
Anyone with information regarding this homicide investigation is asked to call the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070. Those who wish to remain anonymous and become eligible for a reward should call Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).
BETHESDA BRAC UPDATE
ROCKVILLE PIKE (MD 355) CROSSING STUDY: PLANNING BOARD MEETING ON MONDAY DEC. 6: The Planning Board is scheduled to discuss the Rockville Pike Crossing Study being conducted by Montgomery County DOT at 6 p.m. on Monday, December 6 at the Park & Planning office - 8787 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring. The Crossing Study is for a proposed project to provide safe pedestrian access and mitigate gridlock between the National Naval Medical Center and the Medical Center Metro station.
Alternative 2B has been selected as the preferred alternative: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/exec/brac/pdf/pedaccess-station3-alt2bmapping-072010.pdf
MCDOT officials will give a presentation on the status of the study, and the Planning Board will hear public testimony and recommendations from Planning Staff. See the Montgomery County Planning Board's BRAC web site for more information: www.montgomeryplanning.org/transportation/brac/index.shtm
BRAC IMPLEMENTATION COMMITTEE (BIC) TO RECEIVE MCDOT CROSSING STUDY PRESENTATION ON DECEMBER 21 MCDOT officials will provide an update on the Crossing Study at the next meeting of the County's BRAC Implementation Committee on Tuesday, December 21 at 7:30 p.m. at the BCC Regional Services Center. In addition. Maryland Dept. of Transportation (MDOT) officials will provide an update on the SHA Intersections Improvement project. More information on the Dec. 21 BIC meeting: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/brctmpl.asp?url=/Content/EXEC/BRAC/community.asp
Transportation Resource Reference Guide for Seniors and People with Disabilities
For more information, please visit the county‚s website below to learn more about programs and resources. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/hhs/ads/PDFs/ataglancetransresourceguide.pdf
Montgomery County Public Libraries Looks for Customer Feedback on Computer Use In Branches through Online Survey. The survey is accessible from any computer and takes an average of about 10 minutes to complete. It will run through December 3. Take the online survey on: www.surveymonkey.com/s/VG2WGXQ
Recreation Department Sponsors Food Drive To Benefit Manna Food Bank Now through December 9 ˆ Residents are encouraged to participate by donating non-perishable food items at any of the department‚s community, recreation, aquatic or senior centers. To locate the closest recreational facility, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec
Each of us can contribute to strengthening our community by serving in Dr. King‚s honor on the King Holiday and throughout the year. What role will you play? Make January 17th a day ON, not a day off. For a listing of current volunteer opportunities, to share how your group will honor the day, and more information about the musical tribute at Strathmore, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mlk
Dr. Eric Wargotz declines bid for Maryland Republican Chairman
Regarding the move to recruit Dr. Eric Wargotz as a nominee for Chairman of the Maryland Republican Party, Dr. Wargotz has released the following remarks:
"I am both humbled and honored to have many central committee members, and supporters rallying me to run for the Chairman position. The past couple of weeks have been spent carefully considering this opportunity to lead our State party.
The upcoming term presents much opportunity for the Maryland Republican Party to focus its message and thus make substantive gains. Hopefully, a sharpened one carefully crafted based on traditional Conservative values with a goal towards truly achieving a two-party system in our great State.
In conjunction with family, friends, supporters and trusted advisors I have reached the conclusion that although I am up for the challenge of leading this effort as Chairman, I will forgo this unique opportunity at this time as I continue to strongly consider a run for elected office in the near future.
Thus, I offer my sincere congratulations to all nominees for Chairman of the Maryland Republican Party. I pledge my support, time and energy in assisting the new Chairman and the incoming Officers and Executive Board. Furthermore, I will continue to work with the Republican Party and others to promote core Conservative values in Maryland and throughout the Nation. Sincerely, Eric"
New Lodging In Bethesda For Wounded Warriors' Families
BETHESDA, Md. (AP) -- First Lady Michelle Obama is cutting the ribbon on three new residences for families of ailing U.S. service members and veterans in Bethesda.
Mrs. Obama was scheduled to join other officials Thursday at the official opening of the Fisher Houses at the National Naval Medical Center.
The residences were built by the Fisher House Foundation to provide free lodging for the families of as many as 225 ill and injured service members.
The Rockville-based foundation has built and donated dozens of Fisher Houses at military and veterans facilities since 1991.
The new residences are part of the planned move of Walter Reed Army Medical Center to Bethesda next year. SOURCE: WUSA
December 2, 2010
Clinic to offer late term abortions in Montgomery County
SILVER SPRING, MD - A Nebraska doctor who performs abortions late in a pregnancy is planning to begin offering the controversial procedures at a Maryland clinic. The Germantown Reproductive Services and Family Planning Clinic in Montgomery County already performs abortions. The word is spreading through the area about Dr. Leroy Carhart joining the clinic.
"I think it sucks that it is in a community and not like a big city but what are you going to do," said customer Chrisanthi Halkiotis. Some business leaders say the attraction doesn't help.
"You don't want to be in an area or community where your clients are scared," said business owner Adam Cox.
Carhart is among a select few physicians who perform the procedure. Carhart worked closely with another late term provider Dr. George Tiller. Tiller was shot and killed in Kansas 2009.
"I think it sucks that it is in a community and not like a big city but what are you going to do," said customer Chrisanthi Halkiotis. Some business leaders say the attraction doesn't help.
"You don't want to be in an area or community where your clients are scared," said business owner Adam Cox.
Carhart is among a select few physicians who perform the procedure. Carhart worked closely with another late term provider Dr. George Tiller. Tiller was shot and killed in Kansas 2009.
Happy Holidays from Manoli Canoli Restaurant
We would like to thank our fantastic customers for another successful year at Manoli Canoli by offering some super discounts this holiday season. Take advantage of savings up to 15% off any carry-out order and up to 20% on any catering order now through the end of December. We appreciate your business and want to wish you and your family and beautiful holiday season and Happy New Year.
Warm regards,
Manoli Canoli Restaurant
8540 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Phone: (301) 951-1818 Fax: (301) 951-1819
www.manolicanoli.com
Warm regards,
Manoli Canoli Restaurant
8540 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Phone: (301) 951-1818 Fax: (301) 951-1819
www.manolicanoli.com
Police: Body found in trash can that of missing girl
WASHINGTON - A body found in a trash can in a Columbia Heights alley is that of a missing girl from Prince George's County, D.C. Police say.
Police are investigating the murder of 17-year-old Ebony Franklin of Capitol Heights.
Franklin was reported missing on Friday.
Her family recently moved from Hyattsville to their new home on Pistachio Lane in Capitol Heights.
Neighbors say Franklin lived with her father in D.C.
Her body was found in trash can in an alley in the 1000 block of Fairmont Street in Northwest on Monday. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled her death a homicide. The cause of death is not known. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099 or 1-888-919-CRIME (1-888-919-2746). D.C. Police are offering a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons wanted for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.
Her body was found in trash can in an alley in the 1000 block of Fairmont Street in Northwest on Monday. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has ruled her death a homicide. The cause of death is not known. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099 or 1-888-919-CRIME (1-888-919-2746). D.C. Police are offering a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons wanted for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.
POST: Montgomery faces $350 million shortfall, leaving officials scouring for cuts
DANIEL VOVAK: The proposed cut of $19 million to the schools is less than 1% of its budget.
Montgomery County is facing a two-year budget shortfall of $350 million, an unexpectedly wide gap just six months after its last tumultuous round of reductions. Officials are being told to scour departments immediately for new cuts. Numerous programs will shrink or be eliminated, and hundreds of layoffs are possible next year, officials said. County Executive Isiah Leggett, for example, is calling for $19 million in cuts to the public school system, part of a broader mid-year "savings plan" that would also hit public safety and other county programs.
In an email to county staff Thursday, Leggett said he has instructed officials overseeing Fire and Rescue, Police, Health and Human Services, and transit to identify cuts totaling 5 percent of current spending in preparation for next year's budget. Other county government departments - from housing and libraries to recreation and the environment - were instructed to find cuts of 15 percent. The final numbers might shift, with say one department taking a 12 percent hit and other taking 17 percent, officials said. The targets are "starting points," Leggett said.
"I wish I could say to you that our difficulties are easing, but this is not the case," Leggett wrote.
Income tax revenues are down tens of millions of dollars from already diminished projections, he said, and other major forces are at play.
"The State of Maryland is facing a $1.6 billion deficit. The realignment in Congress may dampen our regional economy. And President Obama's just-announced two-year freeze on federal salaries will also adversely affect County tax revenues," Leggett said. SOURCE: Washington Post
Montgomery County is facing a two-year budget shortfall of $350 million, an unexpectedly wide gap just six months after its last tumultuous round of reductions. Officials are being told to scour departments immediately for new cuts. Numerous programs will shrink or be eliminated, and hundreds of layoffs are possible next year, officials said. County Executive Isiah Leggett, for example, is calling for $19 million in cuts to the public school system, part of a broader mid-year "savings plan" that would also hit public safety and other county programs.
In an email to county staff Thursday, Leggett said he has instructed officials overseeing Fire and Rescue, Police, Health and Human Services, and transit to identify cuts totaling 5 percent of current spending in preparation for next year's budget. Other county government departments - from housing and libraries to recreation and the environment - were instructed to find cuts of 15 percent. The final numbers might shift, with say one department taking a 12 percent hit and other taking 17 percent, officials said. The targets are "starting points," Leggett said.
"I wish I could say to you that our difficulties are easing, but this is not the case," Leggett wrote.
Income tax revenues are down tens of millions of dollars from already diminished projections, he said, and other major forces are at play.
"The State of Maryland is facing a $1.6 billion deficit. The realignment in Congress may dampen our regional economy. And President Obama's just-announced two-year freeze on federal salaries will also adversely affect County tax revenues," Leggett said. SOURCE: Washington Post
Silver Spring House Damaged in Fire
A fire on Burket Court damaged a home in Silver Spring, Maryland.
The fire started around 5:30 a.m. Thursday morning in the basement and spread to the upper floors.
All of the occupants were able to get out of the house before firefighters arrived.
A caused has not yet been determined.
Big delays on inner loop in VA
SOURCE: Washington Post
9:05 A.M. UPDATE: There is a disabled vehicle on the inner loop on the Maryland side of the American Legion Bridge. Expect delays. Delays continue on the inner loop approaching I-66. The closed lanes on the Dulles Toll Road have reopened. The I-95 North lane also reopened at the Springfield Interchange.
8:35 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop delays now start at I-66 and stretch back to the Springfield Interchange. I-395 North is also jammed up at the 14th Street Bridge and several other points between the interchange and the bridge.
8:15 A.M. UPDATE: A cyclist was struck at the intersection of Suitland Parkway and Firth Sterling Avenue in Southeast. Drive with caution.
8:05 A.M. UPDATE: The accident on the eastbound Dulles Toll Road near the ramp to the Beltway is still blocking the right center lane and right outside lane. There are also still significant delays on the inner loop between the Springfield Interchange to Arlington Boulevard. I-395 North is also pretty backed up approaching the 14th Street Bridge.
7:50 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on I-95 North at the Springfield Interchange is blocking the right lane and shoulder, so expect big delays approaching the Beltway.
7:40 A.M. UPDATE: The outer loop accident after New Hampshire Avenue has been cleared.
7:25 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop lane at Arlington Boulevard has reopened, but big delays remain on the stretch of the Beltway leading to that spot.
7:12 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on the eastbound Dulles Toll Road near the ramp to the Beltway is blocking the right center lane and right outside lane. Expect delays.
7:10 A.M. UPDATE: The southbound lane on I-270 South at I-370 has reopened, just one of the shoulders is blocked. Also for Maryland commuters: An accident on the outer loop after New Hampshire Avenue is blocking both shoulders and could cause delays.
6:50 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop delays now stretch even further, snarling traffic closer to the Springfield Interchange.
6:40 A.M UPDATE: An accident on I-270 South at I-370 is blocking one southbound lane and one of the shoulders.
6:30 A.M. UPDATE: The accident on the inner loop is still blocking the left lane, and it is causing major backups. Traffic slows to a very slow crawl right after the Braddock Road exit and continues until after the lane closure. Expect big delays.
6:10 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on the inner loop is blocking the left lane and shoulder at Arlington Boulevard.
6 A.M. UPDATE: The westbound lanes of the unit block of Constitution Avenue in Northeast are closed due to a fallen tree.
9:05 A.M. UPDATE: There is a disabled vehicle on the inner loop on the Maryland side of the American Legion Bridge. Expect delays. Delays continue on the inner loop approaching I-66. The closed lanes on the Dulles Toll Road have reopened. The I-95 North lane also reopened at the Springfield Interchange.
8:35 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop delays now start at I-66 and stretch back to the Springfield Interchange. I-395 North is also jammed up at the 14th Street Bridge and several other points between the interchange and the bridge.
8:15 A.M. UPDATE: A cyclist was struck at the intersection of Suitland Parkway and Firth Sterling Avenue in Southeast. Drive with caution.
8:05 A.M. UPDATE: The accident on the eastbound Dulles Toll Road near the ramp to the Beltway is still blocking the right center lane and right outside lane. There are also still significant delays on the inner loop between the Springfield Interchange to Arlington Boulevard. I-395 North is also pretty backed up approaching the 14th Street Bridge.
7:50 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on I-95 North at the Springfield Interchange is blocking the right lane and shoulder, so expect big delays approaching the Beltway.
7:40 A.M. UPDATE: The outer loop accident after New Hampshire Avenue has been cleared.
7:25 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop lane at Arlington Boulevard has reopened, but big delays remain on the stretch of the Beltway leading to that spot.
7:12 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on the eastbound Dulles Toll Road near the ramp to the Beltway is blocking the right center lane and right outside lane. Expect delays.
7:10 A.M. UPDATE: The southbound lane on I-270 South at I-370 has reopened, just one of the shoulders is blocked. Also for Maryland commuters: An accident on the outer loop after New Hampshire Avenue is blocking both shoulders and could cause delays.
6:50 A.M. UPDATE: The inner loop delays now stretch even further, snarling traffic closer to the Springfield Interchange.
6:40 A.M UPDATE: An accident on I-270 South at I-370 is blocking one southbound lane and one of the shoulders.
6:30 A.M. UPDATE: The accident on the inner loop is still blocking the left lane, and it is causing major backups. Traffic slows to a very slow crawl right after the Braddock Road exit and continues until after the lane closure. Expect big delays.
6:10 A.M. UPDATE: An accident on the inner loop is blocking the left lane and shoulder at Arlington Boulevard.
6 A.M. UPDATE: The westbound lanes of the unit block of Constitution Avenue in Northeast are closed due to a fallen tree.
GardPost® Awarded New Technology Records Storage Patent
(WASHINGTON, D.C.), November 23, 2010 – Bethesda-based GardPost, LLC has developed a kiosk service that enables consumers to create digital backups of important forms of identification and other vital records, for which US Patent #7,774,254 has been awarded. This user friendly self service kiosk incorporates leading edge technologies, including biometric identification controls and encrypted electronic storage offsite.
“Losing official identification documents can significantly complicate the process of restoring one’s identity, particularly in the wake of a natural or manmade disaster. Officially replacing these items is the first step in rebuilding, but without photo or digital copies it can be very difficult,” said CEO, Alec Zulf. “The GardPost® system fixes this problem by ensuring that backup copies of important records are available, stored securely offsite and accessible 24/7 via the Internet.” GardPost, LLC developed the system after its research found that having electronic facsimiles of identification and other vital documents can dramatically reduce the time it takes to get official replacements issued.
The system is designed to assist with identity restoration by ensuring that the scanned materials will be available for download 24/7 via Internet-enabled computers or smart phones, such as iPhone or BlackBerry. The GardPost® kiosk features a privacy screen and an easy-to-use flatbed scanner. Within minutes, a user can create an account, scan various forms of identification, and upload the documents to the company’s network of secure servers.
In addition to serving consumers, the GardPost® system represents a strategic opportunity for certain industries, such as financial services and banking that operate under highly regulated marketplaces to find value-added ways to differentiate service offerings from those of competitors. Completely scalable from one kiosk at a single location, to many thousands across an enterprise, the GardPost® network can become an exclusive competitive edge that succeeds by providing consumers with a much needed service.
GardPost, LLC seeks strategic alliances within particular industries, including financial services, banking, retail, and technology. For more information, contact Alec Zulf at 877-714-GARD or email at AZulf@GardPost.com. 7272 Wisconsin Avenue Suite 300. Bethesda, Maryland 20814. 877-714-GARD (4273). www.GardPost.com
“Losing official identification documents can significantly complicate the process of restoring one’s identity, particularly in the wake of a natural or manmade disaster. Officially replacing these items is the first step in rebuilding, but without photo or digital copies it can be very difficult,” said CEO, Alec Zulf. “The GardPost® system fixes this problem by ensuring that backup copies of important records are available, stored securely offsite and accessible 24/7 via the Internet.” GardPost, LLC developed the system after its research found that having electronic facsimiles of identification and other vital documents can dramatically reduce the time it takes to get official replacements issued.
The system is designed to assist with identity restoration by ensuring that the scanned materials will be available for download 24/7 via Internet-enabled computers or smart phones, such as iPhone or BlackBerry. The GardPost® kiosk features a privacy screen and an easy-to-use flatbed scanner. Within minutes, a user can create an account, scan various forms of identification, and upload the documents to the company’s network of secure servers.
In addition to serving consumers, the GardPost® system represents a strategic opportunity for certain industries, such as financial services and banking that operate under highly regulated marketplaces to find value-added ways to differentiate service offerings from those of competitors. Completely scalable from one kiosk at a single location, to many thousands across an enterprise, the GardPost® network can become an exclusive competitive edge that succeeds by providing consumers with a much needed service.
GardPost, LLC seeks strategic alliances within particular industries, including financial services, banking, retail, and technology. For more information, contact Alec Zulf at 877-714-GARD or email at AZulf@GardPost.com. 7272 Wisconsin Avenue Suite 300. Bethesda, Maryland 20814. 877-714-GARD (4273). www.GardPost.com
Annual Democratic Holiday Party for MOCO
I's a Montgomery County Tradition! So please plan Now to Join with other Democratic Activists To Enjoy the Season.
When: Sunday, December 5, 2010
3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA)
12 Taft Court, in Rockville.
To continue our tradition,we ask everyone to Please bring A New, Unwrapped Toy to Make a Child Smile. Toys will be donated to Interfaith Works Community Ministry of Montgomery County which will distribute them. Also, please bring an item to share according to your last name.
A - I Dessert
J - N Side dish
O - Z Hors d'oeuvres
Questions: Call Sandy Raymond (301) 926-7783
Or Marie Wallace (301) 460-4320
When: Sunday, December 5, 2010
3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Montgomery County Education Association (MCEA)
12 Taft Court, in Rockville.
To continue our tradition,we ask everyone to Please bring A New, Unwrapped Toy to Make a Child Smile. Toys will be donated to Interfaith Works Community Ministry of Montgomery County which will distribute them. Also, please bring an item to share according to your last name.
A - I Dessert
J - N Side dish
O - Z Hors d'oeuvres
Questions: Call Sandy Raymond (301) 926-7783
Or Marie Wallace (301) 460-4320
2 Million Lose Jobless Benefits
Extended unemployment benefits for nearly 2 million Americans begin to run out Wednesday, cutting off a steady stream of income and guaranteeing a dismal holiday season for people already struggling with bills they cannot pay.
Unless Congress changes its mind, benefits that had been extended up to 99 weeks will end this month.
That means Christmas is out of the question for Wayne Pittman, 46, of Lawrenceville, Ga., and his wife and 9-year-old son. The carpenter was working up to 80 hours a week at the beginning of the decade, but saw that gradually drop to 15 hours before it dried up completely. His last $297 check will go to necessities, not presents.
"I have a little boy, and that's kind of hard to explain to him," Pittman said.
The average weekly unemployment benefit in the U.S. is $302.90, though it varies widely depending on how states calculate the payment. Because of supplemental state programs and other factors, it's hard to know for sure who will lose their benefits at any given time. But the Labor Department estimates that, without a Congress-approved extension, about 2 million people will be cut off by Christmas.
December 1, 2010
'Massive' Protests Planned at Germantown Abortion Clinic
GERMANTOWN, Md. (WUSA) -- National anti-abortion activists are planning to lay siege to a Gemantown clinic as a Nebraska doctor who performs controversial late-term abortions is planning to see patients there.
"We're going to show our outrage at this," said Troy Newman of Operation Rescue from the group's Kansas headquarters. Newman is planning a press conference and protest Monday.
Dr. Leroy Carhart is the most prominent of the handful of doctors in the U.S. who perform late-term abortions on women up to 26-weeks pregnant. He has been the subject of death threats and protests. His colleague Dr. George Tiller was murdered in Kansas last year.
Carhart is moving his late-term abortion practice to other states after Nebraska outlawed the procedure.
A spokesman for the Germantown Reproductive Health Services clinic announced Carhart would begin seeing patients there next week.
DC9 Can Reopen in Two Weeks: ABRA
A northwest D.C. bar connected to the apparent beating death of a man can reopen later this month, ABRA ruled at a hearing Wednesday.
DC9's liquor license will be suspended until Dec. 15. After that, the bar can reopen and serve liquor with certain restrictions.
Stay with News4 and NBCWashington.com for updates as they become available.
Deer hunters cited in Poolesville, Barnesville, Dickerson, Laytonsville, Beallsville
Even before Maryland's two-week firearms deer season opened last weekend, hunters were in the prowl. A few could pay dearly for jumping the gun. Three men were charged at 10:54 p.m. Nov. 11 with casting artificial light while in possession of a weapon, commonly called jacklighting. The incident occurred on West Offutt Road in Poolesville.
Officers confiscated a rifle, two spotlights, a meat cleaver and a knife from Jose Argueta Rodriguez, 38, Gustavo Adolfo Iglesias, 40, and Jose Acids Vigil, 31, all of Hyattsville. If convicted of jacklighting, they must forfeit their weapons to the state and their hunting licenses will be revoked for two to five years, Department of Natural Resources spokesman Sgt. Art Windemuth said.
"We do take spotlighting of deer seriously," he said. "It's a hazard to people in the area."
A first offense carries a maximum fine of $2,000 and six months in jail, he said. READ MORE: Gazette
Officers confiscated a rifle, two spotlights, a meat cleaver and a knife from Jose Argueta Rodriguez, 38, Gustavo Adolfo Iglesias, 40, and Jose Acids Vigil, 31, all of Hyattsville. If convicted of jacklighting, they must forfeit their weapons to the state and their hunting licenses will be revoked for two to five years, Department of Natural Resources spokesman Sgt. Art Windemuth said.
"We do take spotlighting of deer seriously," he said. "It's a hazard to people in the area."
A first offense carries a maximum fine of $2,000 and six months in jail, he said. READ MORE: Gazette
Montgomery County Animal Watch
These were among the cases received by the Montgomery County Animal Services Division. For information on Montgomery County Animal Shelter hours and location, adoption and licensing procedures, rabies clinics and low-cost neutering, call 240-773-5960.
Dog runs into intersection: Route 355 and Shady Grove Rd., Rockville, Nov. 18. The division received a call about a large brown dog that was running in and out of the intersection, creating a traffic hazard. An animal services officer searched for the dog but didn't find it.
Cat placed under quarantine: Beallsville Rd., 22000 block, Barnesville, Nov. 15. The South Carolina Department of Health reported that a brown tabby belonging to a Montgomery County resident had bitten two people while visiting Horry County, S.C., with its owner. An animal services officer went to the owner's Montgomery address and placed the cat under a standard 10-day quarantine.
Pet photos with Santa: Pets can be taken to PetSmart, 5154 Nicholson Lane, Rockville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday to have their picture taken with Santa for $9.99. PetSmart will donate $5 from each photo to Oldies But Goodies Cocker Spaniel Rescue. For details, visit www.cockerspanielrescue.com or call 703-533-2373.
Pets available for adoption: Dogs, cats and other animals will be available for adoption through the Montgomery County Humane Society at this location. To confirm the time, call 240-793-4201 or go to www.mchumane.org.
Germantown PetSmart
20924 Frederick Rd.
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday
Shelter has adoptable cats: Cats and kittens will be available for adoption through the Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County's no-kill shelter at these locations. For information, call 301-740-2511 or visit www.awlmc.org.
Gaithersburg Kentlands PetSmart
218 Kentlands Blvd.
noon to 3 p.m. Saturday
Gaithersburg Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County's no-kill shelter
18959 Bonanza Way
Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday
6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday
Dog runs into intersection: Route 355 and Shady Grove Rd., Rockville, Nov. 18. The division received a call about a large brown dog that was running in and out of the intersection, creating a traffic hazard. An animal services officer searched for the dog but didn't find it.
Cat placed under quarantine: Beallsville Rd., 22000 block, Barnesville, Nov. 15. The South Carolina Department of Health reported that a brown tabby belonging to a Montgomery County resident had bitten two people while visiting Horry County, S.C., with its owner. An animal services officer went to the owner's Montgomery address and placed the cat under a standard 10-day quarantine.
Pet photos with Santa: Pets can be taken to PetSmart, 5154 Nicholson Lane, Rockville from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday to have their picture taken with Santa for $9.99. PetSmart will donate $5 from each photo to Oldies But Goodies Cocker Spaniel Rescue. For details, visit www.cockerspanielrescue.com or call 703-533-2373.
Pets available for adoption: Dogs, cats and other animals will be available for adoption through the Montgomery County Humane Society at this location. To confirm the time, call 240-793-4201 or go to www.mchumane.org.
Germantown PetSmart
20924 Frederick Rd.
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday
Shelter has adoptable cats: Cats and kittens will be available for adoption through the Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County's no-kill shelter at these locations. For information, call 301-740-2511 or visit www.awlmc.org.
Gaithersburg Kentlands PetSmart
218 Kentlands Blvd.
noon to 3 p.m. Saturday
Gaithersburg Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County's no-kill shelter
18959 Bonanza Way
Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday
6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday
Ervin expected to take over leadership of Montgomery County Council
The next Montgomery County Council will not be sworn in until Monday, but most of the decisions about its leadership already have been made. And with few exceptions, it seems the transition will be smoother than last year's, when the council abandoned a decades-old tradition by bypassing then-council Vice President Roger Berliner for council president. In a split vote in December 2009, the council elected Nancy M. Floreen as council president.
This year, council Vice President Valerie Ervin (D-Dist. 5) of Silver Spring appears unchallenged, and is expected to be elected president on Tuesday, the day after the new council's term begins. Ervin said Monday that Berliner is likely to be the council's next vice president. Berliner said he jokes that he "campaigned on his experience" in the position.
His election as vice president is largely a way to make up for the votes against him a year ago, and to put that part of the council's history behind, he said. This time, Berliner said, he is confident that he will make the transition from vice president to president when it is his turn in 2011. SOURCE: Gazette
This year, council Vice President Valerie Ervin (D-Dist. 5) of Silver Spring appears unchallenged, and is expected to be elected president on Tuesday, the day after the new council's term begins. Ervin said Monday that Berliner is likely to be the council's next vice president. Berliner said he jokes that he "campaigned on his experience" in the position.
His election as vice president is largely a way to make up for the votes against him a year ago, and to put that part of the council's history behind, he said. This time, Berliner said, he is confident that he will make the transition from vice president to president when it is his turn in 2011. SOURCE: Gazette
City’s First Bike Sharing Program Shows Success, Promise
Last month, a team of recent UMD graduates presented their class project in a manner that would likely earn them an A: they launched their first revenue-generating service of weBike, a community bike program that operates the country’s first station-less model of bike sharing.
Washington, DC Weather Video Forecast
Coastal Flood Advisory in effect until 3 PM EST Wednesday...
Wind Advisory in effect until 11 am EST this Wednesday...
Flash Flood Watch in effect until 1 PM EST this Wednesday...
Tornado Watch 762 in effect until 10 am EST this Wednesday...
Wednesday Morning
Showers with a chance of thunderstorms this morning...then partly sunny with a chance of showers this afternoon. Some thunderstorms may be severe with damaging winds. Locally heavy rainfall possible this morning. Breezy with highs in the lower 60s. Temperature falling to around 50 this afternoon. Southwest winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph...becoming northwest 10 to 15 mph this afternoon. Chance of rain near 100 percent.
Wednesday Night
Mostly clear. Much cooler with lows around 30. West winds 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday Night
Mostly cloudy in the evening...then becoming partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Friday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Friday Night
Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.
Saturday
Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.
Sunday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Sunday Night
Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 20s.
Monday
Sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Monday Night
Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 20s.
Tuesday
Sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Wind Advisory in effect until 11 am EST this Wednesday...
Flash Flood Watch in effect until 1 PM EST this Wednesday...
Tornado Watch 762 in effect until 10 am EST this Wednesday...
Wednesday Morning
Showers with a chance of thunderstorms this morning...then partly sunny with a chance of showers this afternoon. Some thunderstorms may be severe with damaging winds. Locally heavy rainfall possible this morning. Breezy with highs in the lower 60s. Temperature falling to around 50 this afternoon. Southwest winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph...becoming northwest 10 to 15 mph this afternoon. Chance of rain near 100 percent.
Wednesday Night
Mostly clear. Much cooler with lows around 30. West winds 10 to 15 mph.
Thursday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday Night
Mostly cloudy in the evening...then becoming partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Friday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 40s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph.
Friday Night
Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.
Saturday
Partly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Saturday Night
Mostly cloudy. Lows in the upper 20s.
Sunday
Mostly sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Sunday Night
Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 20s.
Monday
Sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Monday Night
Mostly clear. Lows in the mid 20s.
Tuesday
Sunny. Highs in the lower 40s.
Montgomery County Council Approves Financing Plan for White Flint
ROCKVILLE, Md., November 30, 2010—The Montgomery County Council today approved a plan that would help pay for major infrastructure improvements required by the White Flint Sector Plan. Today’s action will spur a revitalization effort transforming the North Bethesda area around Rockville Pike into a more urban and denser community strongly supported by public transit and designed to make residents and workers less dependent on automobiles.
The County Council approved the White Flint Sector Plan in March. The County Planning Board began its work on the revitalization plan more than three years ago, working with an advisory board of about 50 stakeholders. Bill 50-10 that was passed today establishes a White Flint Special Taxing District. The bill authorizes the levy of an added property tax on commercial properties that would go toward funding specific transportation infrastructure improvements in the area. Existing residential properties would be excluded from the tax district. The improvements would include creation of street grids, streetscaping and bike lanes for the area.
Under the financing plan, the County would provide advance funding—through the sale of bonds—to ensure that the improvements are made early in the project rather than relying on piecemeal development to drive the delivery of the needed improvements. The County investment would be repaid through funds collected from the taxing district. The plan calls for the tax district to expire when sufficient revenues have been raised to pay for all of the infrastructure items on the list. Major roads that will be improved through the financing plan include Old Georgetown Road (Maryland 187), Nicholson Lane, Rockville Pike, Executive Boulevard, Marinelli Road and Nebel Street. Identified infrastructure improvements could cost an estimated $200 million if all are built.
The plan targets future growth along the Pike with development clustered around about 430 acres near the White Flint Metro Station. It will allow replacement of aging low-rise commercial properties in the area with mixed-use buildings as tall as 30 stories. The revitalized new urban neighborhood would include residences, offices, service-oriented businesses, restaurants and entertainment venues. The neighborhood would evolve through creation of a grid of streets to promote walkability for residents and employees.
“This is a very ambitious and complex plan that will transform the White Flint area along Rockville Pike into an exciting destination,” said Council President Nancy Floreen. “Property owners in White Flint have committed to a financing plan to speed up creation of infrastructure that would support growth. With everyone working together, as they have throughout the planning process, this will remake the strip shopping malls along the Pike into a new, urban community that will make Montgomery County proud.”
It is expected that as the plan is implemented over a period of about two decades, approximately 9,800 new residences will be added (there are approximately 2,300 residences currently within the plan area). There will be approximately 2,600 affordable housing units.
A key element of the plan will be the way it incorporates the Bethesda North Conference Center and Hotel into the transformed neighborhood. The plan provides for public gathering space and local parks. The long-term vision suggests civic or entertainment uses, such as a community playhouse or theater.
White Flint was proposed as an urban, mixed-use community as the center of North Bethesda more than 30 years ago as the influence of Metro’s Red Line was starting to take hold. The sector plan covers an area bounded by the CSX train tracks and White Flint Mall to the east, the merge point of Montrose Parkway and Old Georgetown Road to the north, Old Georgetown Road to the west and an area just below Edson Lane to the south. The Georgetown Prep school and the Strathmore Performing Arts Center are south of the plan. All of the plan is within a walkable three-quarters of a mile from the White Flint Metro Station.
The County Council approved the White Flint Sector Plan in March. The County Planning Board began its work on the revitalization plan more than three years ago, working with an advisory board of about 50 stakeholders. Bill 50-10 that was passed today establishes a White Flint Special Taxing District. The bill authorizes the levy of an added property tax on commercial properties that would go toward funding specific transportation infrastructure improvements in the area. Existing residential properties would be excluded from the tax district. The improvements would include creation of street grids, streetscaping and bike lanes for the area.
Under the financing plan, the County would provide advance funding—through the sale of bonds—to ensure that the improvements are made early in the project rather than relying on piecemeal development to drive the delivery of the needed improvements. The County investment would be repaid through funds collected from the taxing district. The plan calls for the tax district to expire when sufficient revenues have been raised to pay for all of the infrastructure items on the list. Major roads that will be improved through the financing plan include Old Georgetown Road (Maryland 187), Nicholson Lane, Rockville Pike, Executive Boulevard, Marinelli Road and Nebel Street. Identified infrastructure improvements could cost an estimated $200 million if all are built.
The plan targets future growth along the Pike with development clustered around about 430 acres near the White Flint Metro Station. It will allow replacement of aging low-rise commercial properties in the area with mixed-use buildings as tall as 30 stories. The revitalized new urban neighborhood would include residences, offices, service-oriented businesses, restaurants and entertainment venues. The neighborhood would evolve through creation of a grid of streets to promote walkability for residents and employees.
“This is a very ambitious and complex plan that will transform the White Flint area along Rockville Pike into an exciting destination,” said Council President Nancy Floreen. “Property owners in White Flint have committed to a financing plan to speed up creation of infrastructure that would support growth. With everyone working together, as they have throughout the planning process, this will remake the strip shopping malls along the Pike into a new, urban community that will make Montgomery County proud.”
It is expected that as the plan is implemented over a period of about two decades, approximately 9,800 new residences will be added (there are approximately 2,300 residences currently within the plan area). There will be approximately 2,600 affordable housing units.
A key element of the plan will be the way it incorporates the Bethesda North Conference Center and Hotel into the transformed neighborhood. The plan provides for public gathering space and local parks. The long-term vision suggests civic or entertainment uses, such as a community playhouse or theater.
White Flint was proposed as an urban, mixed-use community as the center of North Bethesda more than 30 years ago as the influence of Metro’s Red Line was starting to take hold. The sector plan covers an area bounded by the CSX train tracks and White Flint Mall to the east, the merge point of Montrose Parkway and Old Georgetown Road to the north, Old Georgetown Road to the west and an area just below Edson Lane to the south. The Georgetown Prep school and the Strathmore Performing Arts Center are south of the plan. All of the plan is within a walkable three-quarters of a mile from the White Flint Metro Station.
Police ID Body of Teen Girl Found in Trash Can
The victim is 17-year-old Ebony Franklin, who was reported missing. Her body was discovered around 1:00 p.m. Monday in an alley near Fairmont and 11th Street in the northwest.
Prince George's Council Member Charged With Assault
UPPER MARLBORO, Md. (WUSA) -- Another Prince George's County politican is facing charges.
Council Member Marilynn Bland has been charged with assaulting a council employee earlier this month.
W. Randy Short, the executive director of the council's Youth Commission, has accused Bland of grabbing his collar and screaming, yelling and cursing at him.
Short says Bland was upset because he started a meeting without her.
Bland faces up to 10 years in prison or a $2500 fine if convicted.
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