After hours of heated and sometimes tearful debate, Maryland’s House of Delegates narrowly passed a bill on Friday to make illegal immigrants eligible for in-state tuition.
The bill, which has been revised several times to gain support of wavering Democrats, would allow undocumented immigrants who graduate from Maryland high schools to pay in-state tuition at community colleges if they can prove their parents are state taxpayers. Students who receive an associate’s degree could transfer to a four-year state college and pay the lower rate.
With only three days remaining before the General Assembly adjourns, the measure now returns to the Senate, which last month passed a different version of the legislation.
But Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller Jr. (D-Calvert) this week said that if the House passed the bill, he expected that the two chambers would be able to work out their differences. Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) has said he will sign the bill. SOURCE: Washington Post
April 9, 2011
O’Malley blames GOP ‘hate’ for approaching federal shutdown
Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D) on Friday afternoon blamed Republican “hate of government” for the approaching federal government shutdown.
O’Malley’s statement came as some ramifications of a shutdown in Maryland started to emerge, including an announcement by the Maryland National Guard that it would postpone some planned weekend unit training, regardless of whether Congress reaches a deal by midnight Friday.
O’Malley, who is playing a bigger role on the national stage these days as chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, said a federal shutdown will hurt Maryland’s economy. He accused Republicans in Congress of caring “more about hurting our government than they do about helping our recovery.”
Statement of Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D)
“Congressional Republicans are allowing their hate of government to hurt the hardworking families of our country. It appears they care more about hurting our government than they do about helping our recovery.
“Maryland is home to thousands of federal civil servants – moms and dads who will go without pay because Speaker Boehner and the Republicans have chosen to wage an ideological war instead of putting the interests of their nation first.
“Maryland faces the prospect of reduced state income tax revenue should federal workers experience a furlough without retroactive pay. In addition, state revenue losses are anticipated from the furloughing of federal contractors working in the State. Further impeding our economic recovery would be the loss of projected revenues from reduced spending on taxable goods.” SOURCE: Washington Post
O’Malley, who is playing a bigger role on the national stage these days as chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, said a federal shutdown will hurt Maryland’s economy. He accused Republicans in Congress of caring “more about hurting our government than they do about helping our recovery.”
Statement of Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley (D)
“Congressional Republicans are allowing their hate of government to hurt the hardworking families of our country. It appears they care more about hurting our government than they do about helping our recovery.
“Maryland is home to thousands of federal civil servants – moms and dads who will go without pay because Speaker Boehner and the Republicans have chosen to wage an ideological war instead of putting the interests of their nation first.
“Maryland faces the prospect of reduced state income tax revenue should federal workers experience a furlough without retroactive pay. In addition, state revenue losses are anticipated from the furloughing of federal contractors working in the State. Further impeding our economic recovery would be the loss of projected revenues from reduced spending on taxable goods.” SOURCE: Washington Post
Maryland State Superintendent of Schools to retire in June, after 20 years of service
Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Nancy Grasmick announced her retirement on March 30 after serving in the position for nearly 20 years. Her last day as superintendent will be June 30, according to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Media Relations Director William Reinhard. The Maryland Board of Education is responsible for appointing her replacement but has not selected anyone yet.
Grasmick, 72, has been the superintendent of Maryland schools since September 1991 and holds the title as the longest-serving appointed chief in the nation, according to a press release by the MSDE. After many years in office, Grasmick felt it was time to step down, according to Reinhard. "After 20 years on the job, she thought it'd be a good time to pass the torch on to somebody else," he said. "She wanted to go now, she certainly deserves it."
Grasmick is proud of the progress that has been made in the stateís education and found her job rewarding. ìIn general, Maryland education has become recognized as the nationís leader in public education," she said. "I believe that our stateís strong policies and the support they have engendered made that happen.î
One of Grasmick's top priorities was raising test scores across the state and improving Maryland's national ranking, according to Maryland State Senate President Thomas Miller. "She has emphasized test scores. There's an actual road map of how well [Maryland] students have achieved nationally," he said. In addition, Grasmick created the "Blue Ribbon Program," which recognizes schools that show improvement and achievement, according to Miller.
This national success was evident this past year by Education Week, which recognized the state's education system as the best in the nation and cited Maryland students' Advanced Placement (AP) performance as superior to the rest of the country. Last summer the U.S. Department of Education granted Maryland $250 million for the "Race to the Top" program, which provides money to schools and helps give them qualified teachers and principals.
Sidney Lumet, Director Of Network And 12 Angry Men, Has Died At Age 86
Sidney Lumet, the director behind an astonishing number of classic films and who boasted the distinction of directing a film in each decade since the 1950s, died today at age 86 after suffering lymphoma. His most recent and final film was Before The Devil Knows You're Dead, the 2007 crime thriller that was named by many critics as one of the year's best, and his resume also includes The Verdict, Long Day's Journey Into Night, Fail-Safe and The Wiz. Many of his most remarkable movies were made within a five-year stretch of the 1970s; it's still incredible to look back and realize that Serpico, Murder on the Orient Express, Dog Day Afternoon and Network were made in such a short period of time.
Though film nerds can argue for hours about which of Lumet's films is the best, Network often wins out, and it's the one I'll be thinking about today. The chronicle of a TV network given over to greed and spectacle and sheer insanity, it's an astonishingly clear-eyed glimpse at the media landscape we were about to inherit, not to mention a riveting and sometimes hilarious drama about what inevitably happens when terrible people are put in power. You can essentially throw a dart at Lumet's filmography and come away with a film worth watching, but for anyone unfamiliar with this titanic director's work, Network may be the essential place to start.
Share your own favorite Lumet films or moments in the comments; it's a great day to remember the work of a profoundly influential filmmaker, blessed to remain an essential part of the film world even in the final years of his life.
Sentencing postponed for District man charged in Brian Betts murder case
The sentencing of the third man involved in the murder of Brian K. Betts was postponed Wednesday in Montgomery County Circuit Court after prosecutors cited a recent development in the case that could affect the judge's decision.
Deontra Q. Gray, 19, of the 1300 block of Southview Drive in Oxon Hill, was scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday after pleading guilty to robbery and a handgun charge Jan. 26. The sentencing will be held instead on May 13 to allow assistant state's attorneys Sherri D. Koch and Mary C. Herdman time to investigate additional information in the case that they said was only recently developed. Koch declined to comment on the postponement or disclose the nature of the information cited in court when reached for comment Friday afternoon.
Barbara Graham, Gray's private defense attorney, said she was frustrated by Judge Eric M. Johnson's decision to allow the delay, especially because neither Koch nor Herdman offered any details.
"Without telling us anything about what this information related to, the court has decided to grant the continuance," she said outside Johnson's Rockville courtroom. "They have [Gray's] record, they should have all the evidence related to the crime; I mean, they've sentenced two [of Gray's co-defendants] already."
Members of both Gray's and Betts' families were present in the courtroom Wednesday, but neither family wished to comment on the case.
So far Herdman and Koch have overseen the sentencing of two of the four defendants charged in the murder of Betts—the former principal of the District's Shaw at Garnet-Patterson Middle School—in his home in Silver Spring last April 14.
Alante Saunders, 19, of the 5300 block of Third Street in Northwest, who police and attorneys say planned the robbery and fired the shot that killed Betts, received 40 years in jail after pleading guilty to first-degree murder. Joel Danay Johnson, also 19, of the 4300 block of Third Street, was sentenced to 18 months after pleading guilty as an accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. SOURCE: Gazette
Deontra Q. Gray, 19, of the 1300 block of Southview Drive in Oxon Hill, was scheduled to be sentenced Wednesday after pleading guilty to robbery and a handgun charge Jan. 26. The sentencing will be held instead on May 13 to allow assistant state's attorneys Sherri D. Koch and Mary C. Herdman time to investigate additional information in the case that they said was only recently developed. Koch declined to comment on the postponement or disclose the nature of the information cited in court when reached for comment Friday afternoon.
Barbara Graham, Gray's private defense attorney, said she was frustrated by Judge Eric M. Johnson's decision to allow the delay, especially because neither Koch nor Herdman offered any details.
"Without telling us anything about what this information related to, the court has decided to grant the continuance," she said outside Johnson's Rockville courtroom. "They have [Gray's] record, they should have all the evidence related to the crime; I mean, they've sentenced two [of Gray's co-defendants] already."
Members of both Gray's and Betts' families were present in the courtroom Wednesday, but neither family wished to comment on the case.
So far Herdman and Koch have overseen the sentencing of two of the four defendants charged in the murder of Betts—the former principal of the District's Shaw at Garnet-Patterson Middle School—in his home in Silver Spring last April 14.
Alante Saunders, 19, of the 5300 block of Third Street in Northwest, who police and attorneys say planned the robbery and fired the shot that killed Betts, received 40 years in jail after pleading guilty to first-degree murder. Joel Danay Johnson, also 19, of the 4300 block of Third Street, was sentenced to 18 months after pleading guilty as an accessory after the fact to first-degree murder. SOURCE: Gazette
Christie's to Auction Liz Taylor Jewelry, Art
NEW YORK (AP) - Christie's auction house says it has reached an agreement with Elizabeth Taylor's family to sell her prized jewelry collection, as well as some of her art, clothing and other memorabilia.
Christie's says it is planning a series of auctions that will be announced later this spring.
Taylor died last month at age 79.
The screen star was known for her passion for opulent diamonds.
She published a book in 2003 entitled, "Elizabeth Taylor: My Love Affair with Jewelry," and her collection has included some of the world's most expensive stones.
Read more: http://www.myfoxdc.com/dpps/entertainment/christies-to-auction-liz-taylor-jewelry-art-dpgapx-20110409-gc_12695975#ixzz1J3KPMZ9O
April 8, 2011
General Assembly Approves $10 Million for Municipal Highway User Revenue Fund
Maryland Municipal leaders are applauding the General Assembly for recognizing the critical transportation needs in the state’s municipalities and including $10 million for the Highway User Revenue Fund in the recently passed FY 2012 budget. Governor Martin O’Malley’s proposed budget included just $1.6 million for the fund. Please find more information below.
Thanks for letting me know if you’re interested in speaking with a representative from the Maryland Municipal League or if you have any further questions.
Superintendent named for Wilson County Schools
Wilson County Schools has a new superintendent.
Sean Bulson, 42, community superintendent for Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland, will take over July 1 for Larry Price as superintendent of the school system. The decision was announced Wednesday at a special Wilson County Board of Education meeting.
“It’s very exciting,” said Board chairwoman Robin Flinn.
Flinn has been involved with the search since former board chairman Marvin Sessoms signed a contract agreement in September retaining the North Carolina School Board Association’s superintendent search services at a rate of $9,500, plus additional, out-of-pocket expenses.
“It has been a long process, and a stressful process just in the fact that we wanted to make sure that we made the right decision,” Flinn said. “And we believe we did.”
“Mr. Bulson brings a passion for education, an energy that I think is just going to propel our school system even further,” she added. “We’re going in the right direction and he’s just going to help us go even further.”
Bulson, who lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Kate, and 6-year-old daughter, Emily, is currently responsible for supervising 36 elementary, middle and high schools, and serves approximately 24,000 students. He serves under Superintendent Jerry D. Weast in his current position.
As superintendent of the Wilson school district, Bulson will supervise 25 elementary, middle and high schools, and approximately 12,500 students.
“It feels outstanding,” Bulson said of Wednesday’s announcement.
“It’s hard to sit on information that’s so exciting,” he said. “It sounds like they did a pretty good job here.”
Bulson stumbled across the job posting in October. He spent the next three months preparing an application, which he submitted to the district Jan. 21.
School board members received 25 applications from the NCSBA. Bulson was one of seven selected by members to be interviewed in closed session at the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley in the initial stages of the search. He made it through that stage and was interviewed a second time along with two other finalists last month at the Embassy Suites off Harrison Oaks Boulevard in Cary.
Board members didn’t bring any of the candidates to the district throughout the search. However, Bulson said he took it upon himself to visit the district a couple of times where he “mostly just drove around.” He also said he went to Parker’s once or twice. SOURCE: Wilson Times
Montgomery County Neighborhood News
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 4-7-11
From the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/bcc
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Glen Echo Park programs likely to be affected by a Federal shutdown. The Regional Services Center has received word from the National Parks Service that all classes, programs, events, and performances at Glen Echo Park are likely to be impacted in the event of a Federal Government shut down. Please consult the website of the Glen Echo Partnership for Arts and Culture for up-to-date information. www.glenechopark.org/
Weekly Crime Reports District 1 (Rockville/Potomac) www.connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=43366
District 2 (Bethesda-Chevy Chase, North Bethesda) www.connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=43365
Coffee and Conversation with Ken Hartman Friday, April 8, 2011 Ken Hartman - County Executive Leggett's representative to Potomac, Bethesda, and Rockville - will meet with the community on Friday, April 8th, from 9:30am to 11:00am at the Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Services Center at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. Ken regularly holds open houses throughout his area. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to meet Ken, discuss issues and partnership opportunities, and learn about County services. Please drop by and take part in the discussion.
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting April 11- 7:00 pm The Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board (WMCCAB) will host their monthly meeting on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 7:00-9:00pm at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center located at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. The board will have discussion and approval of the County Executive’s FY12 budget.
***SCHEDULE CHANGE*** The next meeting of the BRAC Implementation Committee will be Tuesday, April 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the B-CC Regional Services Center. The main topics will be updates on federal funding for transportation projects and discussion of the updated BRAC web site and public education campaign focusing on BRAC-related construction and traffic, and commuting alternatives.
Bethesda Art Walk April 8, 6-9pm www.bethesda.org/bethesda/galleries
Free Tax Preparation Offered at Twinbrook A free tax preparation program is being offered for residents who live in Montgomery County and earned less than $49,000 in 2010. Walk-ins only will be accepted 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9. Bring your W-2 and/or 1099. www.rockvillemd.gov/events/calendar/event/2011-4-9/free-tax-preparation/530C8D761A24A49606C8BACD6915A8C5
Enjoy the Rockville Arts Scene Rockville will host the 13th annual Rockville Arts Sampler, where you can catch vignettes from the City's resident performing companies, at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 10, at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre. Find your arts scene for free. www.rockvillemd.gov/rockvillereports/2011/apr/arts_and_entertainment#taste
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) to Mark National Library Week With Online Customer Satisfaction Survey April 10-16 To help determine the effectiveness of its services and programs, MCPL will conduct a Customer Satisfaction Survey in its 20 branches during National Library Week, April 10-16. This year’s survey, for library customers 12 years of age and over, will be an online questionnaire available through the library website. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Libraries/newsandevents/PR_details.asp?PrID=7448
Volunteer to help clean up our local watershed -- Saturday, April 9, 9am - noon Among those participating are Friends of Rock Creek Enforcement (FORCE) and Little Falls Watershed Alliance.
Friends of Rock Creek Enforcement - www.friendsofrockcreek.org/
Little Falls Watershed Alliance - www.lfwa.org/event/sweep-creek-trash-free-little-falls
More Bethesda Green Events: www.bethesdagreen.org/Programs/UpcomingEvents/tabid/296/Default.aspx
Bethesda Literary Festival April 15–17 www.bethesda.org/specialevents/litfest/litfest.htm
Free Financial Seminars to be Held in Bethesda The workshops will be held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD. Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 9:00am – “Macro Planning” Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 11:30am - “Retirement Planning” To register please send email to: richard.bingham@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact Richard at 240-777-8207 for further information.
The Career Gateway! Job Search training classes for Montgomery County residents age 50+ Turbo-charge your resume, hone your interviewing skills, network effectively, discover the hidden job market, and develop a personal job-search plan. The program features small classes, a long-term mentor, 30 hours of intensive training over two weeks (9am-4pm Mon., Wed., Fri), and valuable take-home materials. The final session for Spring 2011 begins on May 9. $75. Call 301-255-4200/4215 or email JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org. Classes meet at the Jewish Council for the Aging, 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville.
The Dept. of Permitting Services Proposes Fee Revisions Effective July 1, 2011 You can review the proposed fees and provide comments by April 30, 2011 Click on the link below for more information. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/exec/Register/April11TOC.asp
Glen Echo Park programs likely to be affected by a Federal shutdown. The Regional Services Center has received word from the National Parks Service that all classes, programs, events, and performances at Glen Echo Park are likely to be impacted in the event of a Federal Government shut down. Please consult the website of the Glen Echo Partnership for Arts and Culture for up-to-date information. www.glenechopark.org/
Weekly Crime Reports District 1 (Rockville/Potomac) www.connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=43366
District 2 (Bethesda-Chevy Chase, North Bethesda) www.connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=43365
Coffee and Conversation with Ken Hartman Friday, April 8, 2011 Ken Hartman - County Executive Leggett's representative to Potomac, Bethesda, and Rockville - will meet with the community on Friday, April 8th, from 9:30am to 11:00am at the Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Services Center at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. Ken regularly holds open houses throughout his area. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to meet Ken, discuss issues and partnership opportunities, and learn about County services. Please drop by and take part in the discussion.
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting April 11- 7:00 pm The Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board (WMCCAB) will host their monthly meeting on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 7:00-9:00pm at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center located at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. The board will have discussion and approval of the County Executive’s FY12 budget.
***SCHEDULE CHANGE*** The next meeting of the BRAC Implementation Committee will be Tuesday, April 12th at 7:30 p.m. at the B-CC Regional Services Center. The main topics will be updates on federal funding for transportation projects and discussion of the updated BRAC web site and public education campaign focusing on BRAC-related construction and traffic, and commuting alternatives.
Bethesda Art Walk April 8, 6-9pm www.bethesda.org/bethesda/galleries
Free Tax Preparation Offered at Twinbrook A free tax preparation program is being offered for residents who live in Montgomery County and earned less than $49,000 in 2010. Walk-ins only will be accepted 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9. Bring your W-2 and/or 1099. www.rockvillemd.gov/events/calendar/event/2011-4-9/free-tax-preparation/530C8D761A24A49606C8BACD6915A8C5
Enjoy the Rockville Arts Scene Rockville will host the 13th annual Rockville Arts Sampler, where you can catch vignettes from the City's resident performing companies, at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 10, at F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre. Find your arts scene for free. www.rockvillemd.gov/rockvillereports/2011/apr/arts_and_entertainment#taste
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) to Mark National Library Week With Online Customer Satisfaction Survey April 10-16 To help determine the effectiveness of its services and programs, MCPL will conduct a Customer Satisfaction Survey in its 20 branches during National Library Week, April 10-16. This year’s survey, for library customers 12 years of age and over, will be an online questionnaire available through the library website. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Libraries/newsandevents/PR_details.asp?PrID=7448
Volunteer to help clean up our local watershed -- Saturday, April 9, 9am - noon Among those participating are Friends of Rock Creek Enforcement (FORCE) and Little Falls Watershed Alliance.
Friends of Rock Creek Enforcement - www.friendsofrockcreek.org/
Little Falls Watershed Alliance - www.lfwa.org/event/sweep-creek-trash-free-little-falls
More Bethesda Green Events: www.bethesdagreen.org/Programs/UpcomingEvents/tabid/296/Default.aspx
Bethesda Literary Festival April 15–17 www.bethesda.org/specialevents/litfest/litfest.htm
Free Financial Seminars to be Held in Bethesda The workshops will be held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD. Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 9:00am – “Macro Planning” Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 11:30am - “Retirement Planning” To register please send email to: richard.bingham@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact Richard at 240-777-8207 for further information.
The Career Gateway! Job Search training classes for Montgomery County residents age 50+ Turbo-charge your resume, hone your interviewing skills, network effectively, discover the hidden job market, and develop a personal job-search plan. The program features small classes, a long-term mentor, 30 hours of intensive training over two weeks (9am-4pm Mon., Wed., Fri), and valuable take-home materials. The final session for Spring 2011 begins on May 9. $75. Call 301-255-4200/4215 or email JCAUniversity@AccessJCA.org. Classes meet at the Jewish Council for the Aging, 12320 Parklawn Drive, Rockville.
The Dept. of Permitting Services Proposes Fee Revisions Effective July 1, 2011 You can review the proposed fees and provide comments by April 30, 2011 Click on the link below for more information. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/exec/Register/April11TOC.asp
B.F. Saul Company to continue renovating Downtown Wheaton
Real estate business B.F. Saul Company will redevelop Downtown Wheaton to create a more transit-oriented community in collaboration with the Wheaton Redevelopment Advisory Committee (WRAC). After three to four months of gathering community input, B.F. Saul submitted a concept plan to county stakeholders and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) in mid-March for negotiation and approval. So far, the county has had about two weeks to look over the plan. There is no estimated date for the plan's finalization.
The redevelopment of Wheaton is still in its beginning stages. "None of this is a done deal," WRAC chair Greg Baker said. "This is part of the county's effort to attract redevelopment. It doesn't mean it will happen." With a large planning and building process ahead of them, developers do not anticipate starting construction for a few years. "Optimistically, it will be 2015 before the shovel hits the ground," Manager of Business Development Pete McGinnity said.
Redevelopment in Downtown Wheaton will occur in phases, according to Baker. B.F. Saul will convert one third of what is currently Parking Lot 13 into a town square. Its size and functionality are yet to be determined, as the developers are working to satisfy community interests, according to Baker. SOURCE: Silver Chips
The redevelopment of Wheaton is still in its beginning stages. "None of this is a done deal," WRAC chair Greg Baker said. "This is part of the county's effort to attract redevelopment. It doesn't mean it will happen." With a large planning and building process ahead of them, developers do not anticipate starting construction for a few years. "Optimistically, it will be 2015 before the shovel hits the ground," Manager of Business Development Pete McGinnity said.
Redevelopment in Downtown Wheaton will occur in phases, according to Baker. B.F. Saul will convert one third of what is currently Parking Lot 13 into a town square. Its size and functionality are yet to be determined, as the developers are working to satisfy community interests, according to Baker. SOURCE: Silver Chips
Poll: Trump Could Be a Contender in 2012 Presidential Race
(NewsCore) - Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney appears to be the early front-runner in the largely unformed race for the Republican nomination for president, but real estate magnate Donald Trump may be a surprise 2012 contender, according to a new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll released Wednesday.
Among Republican primary voters, Romney captured the support of 21 percent in a broad, nine-candidate field. Trump was tied for second with former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, with 17 percent.
House Speaker Newt Gingrich got 11 percent, just ahead of former Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin's 10 percent. Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, considered a strong contender by political handicappers, remains largely unknown, with just six percent of support.
Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota had five percent, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum had three percent, and Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour had just one percent of support in the poll.
Trump "may be a punch line but when he talks about the way to solve our problems, he makes a lot of sense to the average guy out there," said Todd Mauney, a conservative Republican in Weatherford, Texas. "I don't know if people can get over him being the butt of every joke but for me, he can be serious when it's time to make real decisions."
In a narrower field of five candidates -- excluding Trump but including Gingrich, Pawlenty and Barbour and Bachmann -- Romney comes out with a comfortable 20-point lead, or 40 percent to Gingrich's second-place 20 percent. Pawlenty had 12 percent and Bachmann, 11 percent.
Barbour, a former Republican National Committee chief and chairman of the Republican Governors Association, has a powerful fundraising network and a vast Rolodex of contacts, but he has yet to catch on with primary voters. He garnered just three percent of support of those polled in the narrower field. SOURCE: FOX
Among Republican primary voters, Romney captured the support of 21 percent in a broad, nine-candidate field. Trump was tied for second with former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, with 17 percent.
House Speaker Newt Gingrich got 11 percent, just ahead of former Republican Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin's 10 percent. Former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, considered a strong contender by political handicappers, remains largely unknown, with just six percent of support.
Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota had five percent, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum had three percent, and Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour had just one percent of support in the poll.
Trump "may be a punch line but when he talks about the way to solve our problems, he makes a lot of sense to the average guy out there," said Todd Mauney, a conservative Republican in Weatherford, Texas. "I don't know if people can get over him being the butt of every joke but for me, he can be serious when it's time to make real decisions."
In a narrower field of five candidates -- excluding Trump but including Gingrich, Pawlenty and Barbour and Bachmann -- Romney comes out with a comfortable 20-point lead, or 40 percent to Gingrich's second-place 20 percent. Pawlenty had 12 percent and Bachmann, 11 percent.
Barbour, a former Republican National Committee chief and chairman of the Republican Governors Association, has a powerful fundraising network and a vast Rolodex of contacts, but he has yet to catch on with primary voters. He garnered just three percent of support of those polled in the narrower field. SOURCE: FOX
April 7, 2011
New District Court in downtown Rockville to open in June
Delays in safety inspections at the new District Court in downtown Rockville have pushed the opening to June 20.
The opening had originally been planned for December, but was already pushed back until February because of bad weather and routine construction delays.
At the same time, a permanent cure for the intense sunlight reflections off the building's southern windows is due soon. The state is evaluating a solar film that will decrease the reflection by 80 percent.
Barthol L. Thomas, acting assistant secretary for Facilities Planning, Design and Construction at the state Department of General Services, said the most recent delays were caused by safety inspection requirements.
"We've had a few setbacks with the emergency generator and we are now doing our final tests," Thomas said.
The court sits on the former site of the Rockville Library at the corner of Jefferson Street and Maryland Avenue. It sits across Jefferson Street from the current District Court building. SOURCE: Gazette
The opening had originally been planned for December, but was already pushed back until February because of bad weather and routine construction delays.
At the same time, a permanent cure for the intense sunlight reflections off the building's southern windows is due soon. The state is evaluating a solar film that will decrease the reflection by 80 percent.
Barthol L. Thomas, acting assistant secretary for Facilities Planning, Design and Construction at the state Department of General Services, said the most recent delays were caused by safety inspection requirements.
"We've had a few setbacks with the emergency generator and we are now doing our final tests," Thomas said.
The court sits on the former site of the Rockville Library at the corner of Jefferson Street and Maryland Avenue. It sits across Jefferson Street from the current District Court building. SOURCE: Gazette
Regal Bethesda Evacuated After Leak of Substance Reported
The Regal Bethesda movie theater has been evacuated after a report of a leak of an unknown substance in one of the movie theaters, according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue. The substance may be coolant from the HVAC system, but investigators are still working to determine what it is, according to Capt. Oscar Garcia, a Fire and Rescue spokesman.
A hazmat unit was dispatched around 12:38 to the theater, located at 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, and were still on the scene shortly before 1p.m. There were no injuries or illnesses reported, but no patrons were being allowed back into the theater, Garcia said.
"It appears to be some type of coolant from the HVAC system that has pooled at the bottom of the movie theater," Garcia said.
Garcia couldn't yet say how much of the substance was spilled. The leak was contained as of 12:49, but the substance still remained. Hazmat teams are working with the theater's maintenance workers to try to identify the substance and come up with a cleanup plan, Garcia said. SOURCE: Bethesda Patch
A hazmat unit was dispatched around 12:38 to the theater, located at 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, and were still on the scene shortly before 1p.m. There were no injuries or illnesses reported, but no patrons were being allowed back into the theater, Garcia said.
"It appears to be some type of coolant from the HVAC system that has pooled at the bottom of the movie theater," Garcia said.
Garcia couldn't yet say how much of the substance was spilled. The leak was contained as of 12:49, but the substance still remained. Hazmat teams are working with the theater's maintenance workers to try to identify the substance and come up with a cleanup plan, Garcia said. SOURCE: Bethesda Patch
Sources say O’Malley’s offshore wind bill shelved with study
Maryland lawmakers will not pass the centerpiece of Gov. Martin O’Malley’s environmental agenda, a plan to build one of the nation’s first offshore wind farms in the Atlantic Ocean, before they adjourn Monday, according to multiple sources close to the negotiations.
Sources in both chambers of the state’s General Assembly say lawmakers are expected to agree to further study the estimated $1.5 billion project in coming months and reconsider the legislation either this fall when they reconvene in a special session for redistricting, or in their 2012 session in January.
O’Malley lobbied lawmakers heavily in recent weeks to pass the measure. It is backed by a coalition of environmentalists as well as unions who believe construction of the massive turbines would bring 2,000 jobs or more to the state, as well as make Maryland a leader in green energy.
But the plan ran into significant opposition from both Republicans and Democrats in the legislature, who said they had too many unanswered questions about the potential costs on the state’s electric ratepayers.
Under a complicated set of steps laid out in the bill, the state would require Maryland utilities to sign 25-year agreements to buy offshore wind power at a price far above the current market rate. The subsidy would go to developers of the offshore wind farm who say they could not secure financing for the project otherwise. The cost would be spread among all residential and commercial customers through a monthly fee on electric bills. SOURCE: Washington Post
Sources in both chambers of the state’s General Assembly say lawmakers are expected to agree to further study the estimated $1.5 billion project in coming months and reconsider the legislation either this fall when they reconvene in a special session for redistricting, or in their 2012 session in January.
O’Malley lobbied lawmakers heavily in recent weeks to pass the measure. It is backed by a coalition of environmentalists as well as unions who believe construction of the massive turbines would bring 2,000 jobs or more to the state, as well as make Maryland a leader in green energy.
But the plan ran into significant opposition from both Republicans and Democrats in the legislature, who said they had too many unanswered questions about the potential costs on the state’s electric ratepayers.
Under a complicated set of steps laid out in the bill, the state would require Maryland utilities to sign 25-year agreements to buy offshore wind power at a price far above the current market rate. The subsidy would go to developers of the offshore wind farm who say they could not secure financing for the project otherwise. The cost would be spread among all residential and commercial customers through a monthly fee on electric bills. SOURCE: Washington Post
Montgomery County Young Republicans cordially invite you to our Annual Charity Ball on 4/16
The Montgomery County Young Republicans cordially invite you to our Annual Charity Ball. We promise an evening of dancing, drinks and entertainment, with all proceeds raised supporting the Montgomery County Law Enforcement Officers’ Relief Fund (MCLEORF), a Non-Profit Organization providing assistance to the families of police officers in need.
This year's Ball is held in honor of Officer Hector Ayala, who tragically tragically lost his life in the line of duty one year ago. Officer Ayala left behind his son, Hector Jr., and his wife, Melissa, then pregnant with triplets who were born two months later.
You need not be Republican nor young to be moved by this heartbreaking story, not to mention all of the unsung stories of other fallen, wounded and needy heroes whose lives have been touched by MCLEORF. Please join us in showing appreciation and support for the dedicated service of our Montgomery County Police Officers.
DATE: Saturday April 16th 2011 7:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
EVENT: Full Open Bar, Heavy Hors d'oeuvres, and a Night of Dancing
LOCATION: BETHESDA WOMENS CLUB
5500 Sonoma Road, Bethesda, MD
COST: $50 per person
Sponsor Levels:
$250 Silver - 2 Tickets and Signage Included
$500 Gold - 4 Tickets and Signage Included
$1000 Platinum - 8 Tickets and Signage Included
To purchase a ticket, please mail checks made out to the Montgomery County Young Republicans or Montgomery County Law Enforcement Officers’ Relief Fund to: 11343 Amberlea Farm Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
For further information, please contact:
Carl T. Weber III
MCYR President
This year's Ball is held in honor of Officer Hector Ayala, who tragically tragically lost his life in the line of duty one year ago. Officer Ayala left behind his son, Hector Jr., and his wife, Melissa, then pregnant with triplets who were born two months later.
You need not be Republican nor young to be moved by this heartbreaking story, not to mention all of the unsung stories of other fallen, wounded and needy heroes whose lives have been touched by MCLEORF. Please join us in showing appreciation and support for the dedicated service of our Montgomery County Police Officers.
DATE: Saturday April 16th 2011 7:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
EVENT: Full Open Bar, Heavy Hors d'oeuvres, and a Night of Dancing
LOCATION: BETHESDA WOMENS CLUB
5500 Sonoma Road, Bethesda, MD
COST: $50 per person
Sponsor Levels:
$250 Silver - 2 Tickets and Signage Included
$500 Gold - 4 Tickets and Signage Included
$1000 Platinum - 8 Tickets and Signage Included
To purchase a ticket, please mail checks made out to the Montgomery County Young Republicans or Montgomery County Law Enforcement Officers’ Relief Fund to: 11343 Amberlea Farm Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
For further information, please contact:
Carl T. Weber III
MCYR President
GGCC & 5th District Commander recognize Officer
Gaithersburg, MD (April 7, 2011) – Police Officer Michael J. Phillips was presented with the “Germantown District Commander’s Recognition Award” and “Commander’s Coin” yesterday for his dedication and service as a Montgomery County Police Officer.
“Officer Phillips has served the police department for seven years, but his experience and commitment far exceed others with his years on the job,” said Commander Luther Reynolds, Germantown 5th District Station. “For all his efforts and continued willingness to share his wealth of tactical experiences, I am pleased to thank Mike for his contributions to making our community a better place to live and our officers safer through better training and tactics”.
Officer Phillips is a member of the Germantown Special Assignment Team and of the Decentralized SWAT team. In addition to his regular police duties, Officer Phillips is currently teaching a two hour tactical block for all Department Sergeants and Team Leaders.
“Mike is a good teacher and his sharing of this important expertise continues to make us a more confident, professional and safer workforce as we face ongoing challenges in the days ahead,” Reynolds said.
For his commitment, Officer Phillips received a gold Commander’s coin, a Commander’s Recognition plaque and will have his name added to the Chamber Recognition plaque that is displayed in the squad room of the 5th District Headquarters.
“Today was another outstanding example of the strong support we experience in our district, in particular from the Chamber of Commerce. Your help is appreciated and has a great impact on our troops,” Reynolds said. “Recognition of their efforts and saying thanks for the difference and impact they are making means a great deal to them. For those who made it today, thank you for taking the time to be there and for all of you, thank you for all your support throughout the year!! We are headed in the right direction and it is a great feeling knowing that we have your support.”
According to Reynolds, Officer Phillips is a retired Navy Officer with “extensive expertise in weapons and tactics”. Phillips shares his experience and offers specialized training to other members of this agency “which they would never have had the opportunity to get in any other venue”.
“Being safe in our home and in our community is a fundamental aspect of quality of life here in Montgomery County. The work that the police officers do every day makes it safe for residence and businesses to thrive and we are very thankful that they do such a great job,” stated GGCC President Marilyn Balcombe.
For more information on the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber please visit the GGCC website at www.ggchamber.org.
PICTURE: (l:r) Commander Luther Reynolds is presented with the GGCC 5th District Police Officer Recognition Plaque by Executive Director Marilyn Balcombe and Board Chair Doug Wrenn
Bill to change Md. primary dates headed to O’Malley
A bill that would shift the dates of Maryland’s presidential and gubernatorial primaries is headed to Gov. Martin O’Malley (D).
Under the bill, which passed the Senate unanimously Tuesday, voters would cast ballots in the 2012 presidential primary election in April and the 2014 gubernatorial primary would move from September to June.
In 2008, Maryland, Virginia and the District all held primaries Feb. 12, creating a Potomac Primary that gave the region greater importance in the competitive race. That was undone by the national party rules effecting early nominating contests in the 2012 presidential cycle.
The legislation, which O’Malley sponsored, also would move Maryland’s gubernatorial primary from the second Tuesday in September to the last Tuesday in June.
The change is partly a response to a federal law passed in 2009 designed to ensure that military and overseas voters have sufficient time to receive absentee ballots and participate in elections.
Moving the primary to June in gubernatorial years would be a major change in Maryland politics — effectively extending the general election campaign by a few months.
The House passed the identical bill last month.
Under the bill, which passed the Senate unanimously Tuesday, voters would cast ballots in the 2012 presidential primary election in April and the 2014 gubernatorial primary would move from September to June.
In 2008, Maryland, Virginia and the District all held primaries Feb. 12, creating a Potomac Primary that gave the region greater importance in the competitive race. That was undone by the national party rules effecting early nominating contests in the 2012 presidential cycle.
The legislation, which O’Malley sponsored, also would move Maryland’s gubernatorial primary from the second Tuesday in September to the last Tuesday in June.
The change is partly a response to a federal law passed in 2009 designed to ensure that military and overseas voters have sufficient time to receive absentee ballots and participate in elections.
Moving the primary to June in gubernatorial years would be a major change in Maryland politics — effectively extending the general election campaign by a few months.
The House passed the identical bill last month.
Maryland's mobile millionaires
After passing a millionaire surtax in May of 2009, nearly one-third of Maryland’s millionaires have gone missing, thus contributing to a decline in state revenues, according to the Wall Street Journal. The politicians in Annapolis said they’d collect $106 million by raising the state’s income tax rate on millionaire households to 6.25 percent from 4.75 percent.
In cities like Baltimore and Bethesda, which apply add-on income taxes, the top tax rate with the surcharge now reaches as high as 9.3 percent — fifth highest in the nation. Liberals claimed this was based on incomplete data and that rich Marylanders hadn’t fled the state. Well, when the state comptroller’s office confirmed the final tax return data for 2008, the first year that the higher tax rates applied, it showed:
The number of millionaire tax returns fell sharply toc5,529 from 7,898 in 2007 — a 30 percent decline. The taxes paid by rich filers fell by 22 percent, so instead of their payments increasing by $106 million, they fell by some $257 million.
While in reality a big part of that decline results from the recession that eroded incomes — especially from capital gains — stated the Journal, there is also little doubt that some rich people moved out or filed their taxes in other states with lower burdens. One-in-eight millionaires who filed a Maryland tax return in 2007 filed no return in 2008. Some died, but the others presumably changed their state of residence.
vvA Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysis of federal tax return data on people who migrated from one state to another found that Maryland lost $1 billion of its net tax base in 2008 because of residents moving to other states. That’s income that’s now being taxed and financing services in Virginia, South Carolina and elsewhere, says the Journal.
Montgomery County, outside of Washington, D.C., is Maryland’s wealthiest county and was especially clobbered, losing nearly $4 billion in taxable income in 2008, with some 80 percent of those lost dollars from high-income returns. States like Florida and Texas have no personal income tax, so the savings for a rich person who stops paying taxes in Baltimore or Montgomery County can be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. SOURCE: Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal
The number of millionaire tax returns fell sharply toc5,529 from 7,898 in 2007 — a 30 percent decline. The taxes paid by rich filers fell by 22 percent, so instead of their payments increasing by $106 million, they fell by some $257 million.
While in reality a big part of that decline results from the recession that eroded incomes — especially from capital gains — stated the Journal, there is also little doubt that some rich people moved out or filed their taxes in other states with lower burdens. One-in-eight millionaires who filed a Maryland tax return in 2007 filed no return in 2008. Some died, but the others presumably changed their state of residence.
vvA Bank of America Merrill Lynch analysis of federal tax return data on people who migrated from one state to another found that Maryland lost $1 billion of its net tax base in 2008 because of residents moving to other states. That’s income that’s now being taxed and financing services in Virginia, South Carolina and elsewhere, says the Journal.
Montgomery County, outside of Washington, D.C., is Maryland’s wealthiest county and was especially clobbered, losing nearly $4 billion in taxable income in 2008, with some 80 percent of those lost dollars from high-income returns. States like Florida and Texas have no personal income tax, so the savings for a rich person who stops paying taxes in Baltimore or Montgomery County can be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. SOURCE: Kitsap Peninsula Business Journal
April 6, 2011
Potential government shutdown's impact on region
With just days left before a possible government shutdown, D.C.-area residents and tourists braced for the impact a possible shutdown would have on the region.
If a budget compromise isn’t reached, all Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo will close. All “non-essential” employees will be sent home. Thousands of stores in the District, Maryland, and Virginia that rely on spending from government employees and tourists could be hurt.
"It’s gonna be difficult,” said Tom Martin, a Department of Commerce employee. “I have a young son. My wife is also working in commerce, so we'll be without both of our incomes.”
Essential federal workers would stay on the job, including FBI agents and Coast Guard workers. Social Security payments would still go out and the mail would be delivered.
Another commerce department staffer, Jeff Pedersen, said he luckily has some money saved up.
Kensington mayor becomes deputy secretary of state
Kensington Mayor Peter Fosselman has taken a position within Gov. Martin O'Malley's administration, overseeing the operations of charitable organizations across the state. Fosselman announced today that starting April 20 he will become deputy secretary of state, charged with heading the office's Charitable and Legal divisions in Annapolis. He will continue as mayor of Kensington, but resign as a principal at Rodgers Consulting Inc. of Germantown, where he has worked for three years.
Fosselman will work closely with organizations he supports, such as Safe at Home Maryland, which works to keep confidential the addresses of victims of domestic abuse, and the state's Give Wisely program, a public information effort to help prospective donors make well-informed decisions about giving to nonprofits.
He said he hopes working at the seat of Maryland politics will let him become more familiar with state programs that benefit Kensington and Montgomery County.
"It'll be good for the town and it'll be great for the county to have another person with a voice in Annapolis," he said.
Deputy secretaries of state, of which there are two, enforce laws governing the operations of the more than 10,000 charities, and 80,000 notaries in Maryland, as well as certain certification standards, said Frederick Smalls, director of finance, administration, and human resources for the secretary of state's office. SOURCE: Gazette
Fosselman will work closely with organizations he supports, such as Safe at Home Maryland, which works to keep confidential the addresses of victims of domestic abuse, and the state's Give Wisely program, a public information effort to help prospective donors make well-informed decisions about giving to nonprofits.
He said he hopes working at the seat of Maryland politics will let him become more familiar with state programs that benefit Kensington and Montgomery County.
"It'll be good for the town and it'll be great for the county to have another person with a voice in Annapolis," he said.
Deputy secretaries of state, of which there are two, enforce laws governing the operations of the more than 10,000 charities, and 80,000 notaries in Maryland, as well as certain certification standards, said Frederick Smalls, director of finance, administration, and human resources for the secretary of state's office. SOURCE: Gazette
Bill to Prohibit Roadside Soliciting by County Employees During Work Hours Introduced by Montgomery Council
Release ID: 11-083
Release Date: 4/5/2011
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Office of Phil Andrews
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 5, 2011—A bill that would amend the Montgomery County Ethics law to prohibit a County employee from standing in a roadway, median divider or intersection during official work hours to solicit money or donations of any kind from the occupant of a vehicle was introduced today before the Montgomery County Council.
The chief sponsor of Bill 12-11 is Councilmember Phil Andrews. Council President Valerie Ervin and Councilmember Craig Rice are co-sponsors of the proposed legislation. A public hearing on the bill is tentatively scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on May 3.
The County Ethics Law generally prohibits a County employee from soliciting a gift to the employee or another person or organization during official work hours or while wearing an official County uniform. However, the Ethics Law contains an exception to this general prohibition to permit an employee to solicit charitable donations during official work hours or while identifiable as a County employee if the charity drive is approved by the County Executive.
One example of an "approved" charity drive for County employees is the annual "Fill the Boot" campaign where Montgomery County Fire and Rescue employees solicit donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association during official work hours while wearing County issued uniforms. During this campaign, County fire fighters routinely solicit donations from the drivers of motor vehicles while standing on roadway intersections and median dividers.
“Although the County does not currently have the authority to enact a general ban on roadside solicitation, the County does have the authority to limit roadside solicitation by County employees during official work hours,” said Councilmember Andrews, who chairs the Council’s Public Safety Committee.
“The County has a duty to provide for a safe workplace for its employees under both State and Federal occupational safety and health laws,” said Councilmember Rice. “That is what this bill is seeking to accomplish.”
Councilmember Andrews said he did not want to see campaigns, such as the one Fire and Rescue employees conduct each year on behalf of Muscular Dystrophy, ended. He just wanted funds collected in a safe way rather than in a manner that is inherently dangerous.
“It is needlessly dangerous for individuals to enter highways to solicit contributions from drivers,” said Councilmember Andrews. “In Sante Fe Springs, Calif., in 2010, and in Waxahacie, Tex., in 2009, firefighters conducting ‘Fill the Boot’ campaigns were struck by vehicles. As a result, the local fire chief in Texas suspended the roadway campaign. Allowing County employees to solicit in roadways on County time—as is done now—is not only dangerous; it undermines the County's efforts and credibility in promoting pedestrian and traffic safety. If County employees continue to solicit in roadways, it is only a matter of time before an employee is injured or killed by a vehicle. This bill is what the Council can do at this time to reduce the chances of that happening. Until the Council obtains authority from the General Assembly to prohibit roadway solicitation altogether, the Council cannot prohibit County employees from soliciting in roadways on their own time.”
Release Date: 4/5/2011
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Office of Phil Andrews
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 5, 2011—A bill that would amend the Montgomery County Ethics law to prohibit a County employee from standing in a roadway, median divider or intersection during official work hours to solicit money or donations of any kind from the occupant of a vehicle was introduced today before the Montgomery County Council.
The chief sponsor of Bill 12-11 is Councilmember Phil Andrews. Council President Valerie Ervin and Councilmember Craig Rice are co-sponsors of the proposed legislation. A public hearing on the bill is tentatively scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on May 3.
The County Ethics Law generally prohibits a County employee from soliciting a gift to the employee or another person or organization during official work hours or while wearing an official County uniform. However, the Ethics Law contains an exception to this general prohibition to permit an employee to solicit charitable donations during official work hours or while identifiable as a County employee if the charity drive is approved by the County Executive.
One example of an "approved" charity drive for County employees is the annual "Fill the Boot" campaign where Montgomery County Fire and Rescue employees solicit donations for the Muscular Dystrophy Association during official work hours while wearing County issued uniforms. During this campaign, County fire fighters routinely solicit donations from the drivers of motor vehicles while standing on roadway intersections and median dividers.
“Although the County does not currently have the authority to enact a general ban on roadside solicitation, the County does have the authority to limit roadside solicitation by County employees during official work hours,” said Councilmember Andrews, who chairs the Council’s Public Safety Committee.
“The County has a duty to provide for a safe workplace for its employees under both State and Federal occupational safety and health laws,” said Councilmember Rice. “That is what this bill is seeking to accomplish.”
Councilmember Andrews said he did not want to see campaigns, such as the one Fire and Rescue employees conduct each year on behalf of Muscular Dystrophy, ended. He just wanted funds collected in a safe way rather than in a manner that is inherently dangerous.
“It is needlessly dangerous for individuals to enter highways to solicit contributions from drivers,” said Councilmember Andrews. “In Sante Fe Springs, Calif., in 2010, and in Waxahacie, Tex., in 2009, firefighters conducting ‘Fill the Boot’ campaigns were struck by vehicles. As a result, the local fire chief in Texas suspended the roadway campaign. Allowing County employees to solicit in roadways on County time—as is done now—is not only dangerous; it undermines the County's efforts and credibility in promoting pedestrian and traffic safety. If County employees continue to solicit in roadways, it is only a matter of time before an employee is injured or killed by a vehicle. This bill is what the Council can do at this time to reduce the chances of that happening. Until the Council obtains authority from the General Assembly to prohibit roadway solicitation altogether, the Council cannot prohibit County employees from soliciting in roadways on their own time.”
Passing of Wanda Vovak
NOTE: Wanda Vovak is Daniel Vovak's grandmother, the editor of Montgomery County Daily.
Wanda Irene Vovak (nee Dytko) age 85, of Lorain County, Ohio, died on April 5, 2011 at Towne Center, Avon Lake, following a 5-year illness. She was born on January 5, 1926 in Cleveland, Ohio, and had lived in Lorain County since 1956. Wanda graduated high school in Cleveland. She was employed in the cafeteria dept. of ARA Food Service, retiring in 1988.
She was a member of the New Apostolic Church, Lorain. Her late husband was the minister of the church and she helped him with the Pastoral Care of the members of the church. She was also a member of the choir, was the Sunday school teacher, and enjoyed reading the bible and devotion articles. Wanda also helped with the flower beds at the church. She always enjoyed spending time with her 5 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
She is survived by her only son: Ronald H. Vovak and daughter in-law: Lee Ann (nee Hale) Vovak, of Lorain, grandchildren: Daniel, David, Stephen, Christopher and Timothy, and great grandchildren: Jacob, Katelyn, Timothy, and Samuel. She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years: Rev. Henry Vovak, in 1992, parents: Mathias and Magdalen (nee Tomon) Vovak, and siblings: Stella Griffin, Jean Stanis, Nellie Nass and Joseph Dytko.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 9, 2011 from 12:00 p.m. until time of services at 1:00 p.m. at the New Apostolic Church, 3929 Leavitt Road, Lorain. Rev. Jeffrey Sandrock and Rev. Adam Welch, will officiate.
The Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain is handling the arrangements. To send online condolences, go to www.dovinfuneralhome.com.
Md. School Workers Rally To Oppose Budget Cuts
April 06, 2011 - On Tuesday evening, in Montgomery County, Maryland, hundreds of teachers, school administrators and parents rallied outside the county council building in advance of a public hearing on the county's budget.
The hearing was scheduled to begin at 7 p.m., but by 6 p.m. the crowd of demonstrators had grown so large, police blocked traffic on the two adjoining streets for safety.
At issue is a $82 million increase in funding, proposed by the county school board. Administrators say the system has seen a dramatic rise in enrollment making the increase necessary. Executive Ike Leggett rejected that request, citing the county's projected $300 million budget shortfall. Lee Evans is principal of Magruder high school. Evans says although teacher benefits are also threatened, at the end of the day it's all about the kids.
"That is what all these people are here for," he says. "This is about what we do every day for children, and we know that it's being threatened, because of the politics involved."
Additional public hearings are scheduled for April 6 and 7. SOURCE: WAMU
At issue is a $82 million increase in funding, proposed by the county school board. Administrators say the system has seen a dramatic rise in enrollment making the increase necessary. Executive Ike Leggett rejected that request, citing the county's projected $300 million budget shortfall. Lee Evans is principal of Magruder high school. Evans says although teacher benefits are also threatened, at the end of the day it's all about the kids.
"That is what all these people are here for," he says. "This is about what we do every day for children, and we know that it's being threatened, because of the politics involved."
Additional public hearings are scheduled for April 6 and 7. SOURCE: WAMU
Gifford’s reopens ice cream store in Chevy Chase
After all four stores closed last year following a dispute between the owner and the chain’s wholesalers, Gifford’s Ice Cream reopened its doors in Chevy Chase today.
Artfully Chocolate Kingsbury Confections, or ACKC, a cocoa bar located in Washington, D.C., and Virginia, manages Gifford’s Chevy Chase location. In addition to Gifford’s ice cream, the store features ACKC products, store manager Lee Marcum said.
“We think it’s a good business opportunity for us since we don’t currently have any stores in Maryland,” Marcum said. “It’s good to be associated with a well-known local brand, and we’re also glad to help Gifford’s out.”
All ACKC and Balducci’s stores have recently started selling Gifford’s ice cream, and The Burger Joint in Bethesda serves Gifford’s milkshakes. Neal Lieberman, CEO of Gifford’s Wholesale Ice Cream, sold all Gifford’s retail ice cream outlets to Luke Cooper, a Baltimore-area investor, in 2009. All four Gifford’s locations closed last summer when Lieberman found Cooper selling Hood Ice Cream, a mass-market brand, as Gifford’s Ice Cream. Lieberman has now reestablished control over retail and the Chevy Chase location is the first to reopen.
“It’s a great community ice cream shop,” said David Smith, CEO of Chevy Chase Land Company, which leases the space to Gifford’s. “We are really excited to see it back and running.”
Smith said he expects there to be a demand for Gifford’s ice cream, despite the setback the company experienced last year.
“I don’t think it will take a long time for people to go in to Gifford’s and say, ‘Gifford’s is back and the ice cream is as good as ever,’” Smith said. “I expect the news will go around through word of mouth really quickly.”
Gifford’s is a renowned establishment in the Washington area, Smith said. SOURCE:Black & White
“We think it’s a good business opportunity for us since we don’t currently have any stores in Maryland,” Marcum said. “It’s good to be associated with a well-known local brand, and we’re also glad to help Gifford’s out.”
All ACKC and Balducci’s stores have recently started selling Gifford’s ice cream, and The Burger Joint in Bethesda serves Gifford’s milkshakes. Neal Lieberman, CEO of Gifford’s Wholesale Ice Cream, sold all Gifford’s retail ice cream outlets to Luke Cooper, a Baltimore-area investor, in 2009. All four Gifford’s locations closed last summer when Lieberman found Cooper selling Hood Ice Cream, a mass-market brand, as Gifford’s Ice Cream. Lieberman has now reestablished control over retail and the Chevy Chase location is the first to reopen.
“It’s a great community ice cream shop,” said David Smith, CEO of Chevy Chase Land Company, which leases the space to Gifford’s. “We are really excited to see it back and running.”
Smith said he expects there to be a demand for Gifford’s ice cream, despite the setback the company experienced last year.
“I don’t think it will take a long time for people to go in to Gifford’s and say, ‘Gifford’s is back and the ice cream is as good as ever,’” Smith said. “I expect the news will go around through word of mouth really quickly.”
Gifford’s is a renowned establishment in the Washington area, Smith said. SOURCE:Black & White
CVS Pharmacy to arrive at Downtown Silver Spring
CVS Pharmacy will come to Downtown Silver Spring on the corner of Wayne Avenue and Fenton Street in October 2011. Local shops including Art Spring, IMPACT Silver Spring and a dry cleaner will relocate before construction begins later this month.
According to CVS Public Relations Director Mike DeAngelis, the location is desirable due to its convenient placement. The Silver Spring location will be 7,800 square feet and will contain a full service pharmacy, health and beauty products, general merchandise, food and a digital photo lab.
One of the tenants that will have to move out will be Art Spring, a division of Pyramid Atlantic, which serves as a space for local artists to sell their artwork. According to co-owner and manager Linda Blackbourn, Art Spring has had to change locations five times since their opening two years ago. Despite the numerous moves, Blackbourn is nevertheless satisfied to remain in the Downtown Silver Spring area. "I really think that it's the price we pay for having such a wonderful location," Blackbourn said.
Art Spring will be moving above Potbelly Sandwich Shop in the Ellsworth Plaza, where the Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant was previously located. Blackbourn is excited with the new location and hopes to maintain a kiosk on the street level for events such as the weekly Farmer's Market. "We are really thankful to be in the Downtown Silver Spring development and by having us there they are supporting the arts," Blackbourn said. "We are grateful to have any spot we can get." SOURCE: Silver Chips
According to CVS Public Relations Director Mike DeAngelis, the location is desirable due to its convenient placement. The Silver Spring location will be 7,800 square feet and will contain a full service pharmacy, health and beauty products, general merchandise, food and a digital photo lab.
One of the tenants that will have to move out will be Art Spring, a division of Pyramid Atlantic, which serves as a space for local artists to sell their artwork. According to co-owner and manager Linda Blackbourn, Art Spring has had to change locations five times since their opening two years ago. Despite the numerous moves, Blackbourn is nevertheless satisfied to remain in the Downtown Silver Spring area. "I really think that it's the price we pay for having such a wonderful location," Blackbourn said.
Art Spring will be moving above Potbelly Sandwich Shop in the Ellsworth Plaza, where the Ceviche Tapas Bar and Restaurant was previously located. Blackbourn is excited with the new location and hopes to maintain a kiosk on the street level for events such as the weekly Farmer's Market. "We are really thankful to be in the Downtown Silver Spring development and by having us there they are supporting the arts," Blackbourn said. "We are grateful to have any spot we can get." SOURCE: Silver Chips
April 5, 2011
Montgomery Councils Hosts 2nd and 3rd of 5 Public Hearings on FY12 Operating Budget
Release ID: 11-082
Release Date: 4/5/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 5, 2011—The Montgomery County Council at 1:30 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6, will hold the second and third of five public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2012 Operating Budget. About 30 speakers are scheduled to speak at the afternoon hearing and 40 are scheduled to speak at the evening hearing.
The public hearings will be held in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. All 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 first public hearing on the FY12 Operating Budget is scheduled for tonight, April 5. The final two hearings will be held on Thursday, April 7, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. The Council will be discussing aspects of the budget in the ensuing six weeks and is scheduled to adopt the budget in late May. The budget will go into effect on July 1.
Residents also can provide comments and suggestions regarding the budget via the comment Web page, which is easily accessible from the County Web site’s home page, from the County Council home page and from the home pages of Councilmembers.
The budget comment link can be accessed directly at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/budgetcomments . Comments and suggestions will be forwarded to the Executive Branch and to all County Councilmembers daily.
Release Date: 4/5/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 5, 2011—The Montgomery County Council at 1:30 and 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 6, will hold the second and third of five public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2012 Operating Budget. About 30 speakers are scheduled to speak at the afternoon hearing and 40 are scheduled to speak at the evening hearing.
The public hearings will be held in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. All 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 first public hearing on the FY12 Operating Budget is scheduled for tonight, April 5. The final two hearings will be held on Thursday, April 7, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. The Council will be discussing aspects of the budget in the ensuing six weeks and is scheduled to adopt the budget in late May. The budget will go into effect on July 1.
Residents also can provide comments and suggestions regarding the budget via the comment Web page, which is easily accessible from the County Web site’s home page, from the County Council home page and from the home pages of Councilmembers.
The budget comment link can be accessed directly at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/budgetcomments . Comments and suggestions will be forwarded to the Executive Branch and to all County Councilmembers daily.
Montgomery County Neighborhood News
Coffee and Conversation with Ken Hartman Friday, April 8, 2011
Ken Hartman - County Executive Leggett's representative to Potomac, Bethesda, and Rockville - will meet with the community on Friday, April 8th, from 9:30am to 11:00am at the Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Services Center at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. Ken regularly holds open houses throughout his area. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals to meet Ken, discuss issues and partnership opportunities, and learn about County services. Please drop by and take part in the discussion.
Organizing a Green Team in Your Building – How to Mobilize Your Board and Your Neighbors to Save Energy, Money and the Environment - April 6, 2011 Hear how board members, property managers, and activist residents at several condominiums have used community and peer pressure to motivate Condo associations to green their buildings. Adam Landsman, Energy Manager at Abaris Realty, will give a property manager perspective. Panelists will share their experiences in three areas: 1) How boards can rally their communities to participate in eco-friendly options; 2) How residents can convince boards to begin eco-friendly programs; and 3) The role of property managers in facilitating action on "Greening" programs. http://bethesdagreen.org/Programs/GreeningCondos/tabid/392/Default.aspx
Bethesda Art Walk April 8, 6-9pm www.bethesda.org/bethesda/galleries
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting April 11- 7:00 pm The Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board (WMCCAB) will host their monthly meeting on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 7:00-9:00pm at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center located at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. The board will have discussion and approval of the County Executive’s FY12 budget.
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) to Mark National Library Week With Online Customer Satisfaction Survey April 10-16 To help determine the effectiveness of its services and programs, MCPL will conduct a Customer Satisfaction Survey in its 20 branches during National Library Week, April 10-16. This year’s survey, for library customers 12 years of age and over, will be an online questionnaire available through the library website, www.montgomerycountymd.gov/library.
Bethesda Literary Festival April 15–17 www.bethesda.org/specialevents/litfest/litfest.htm
Free Financial Seminars to be Held in Bethesda Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 9:00am – “Macro Planning” Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 11:30am - “Retirement Planning” The workshops will be held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD. To register please send email to: richard.bingham@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact Richard at 240-777-8207 for further information.
The Department of Permitting Services Proposes Fee Revisions Effective July 1, 2011 You can review the proposed fees and provide comments by April 30, 2011 Click on the link below for more information www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/exec/Register/April11TOC.asp VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Montgomery County Volunteer Center www.montgomerycountymd.gov/volunteer
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
The deadline for application is April 11, 2011 for: • Department of Permitting Services Advisory Committee • Library Board • Strathmore Hall Foundation Board of Directors
The deadline for application is April 15, 2011 for: • Commission on Common Ownership Communities • Advisory Committee on Consumer Protection • Committee for Ethnic Affairs • Recreation Advisory Boards
The deadline for application is April 22, 2011 for: • Glen Echo Park Partnership Board of Directors • Committee on Hate/Violence • Noise Control Advisory Board • Sign Review Board
Please visit: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents.
Organizing a Green Team in Your Building – How to Mobilize Your Board and Your Neighbors to Save Energy, Money and the Environment - April 6, 2011 Hear how board members, property managers, and activist residents at several condominiums have used community and peer pressure to motivate Condo associations to green their buildings. Adam Landsman, Energy Manager at Abaris Realty, will give a property manager perspective. Panelists will share their experiences in three areas: 1) How boards can rally their communities to participate in eco-friendly options; 2) How residents can convince boards to begin eco-friendly programs; and 3) The role of property managers in facilitating action on "Greening" programs. http://bethesdagreen.org/Programs/GreeningCondos/tabid/392/Default.aspx
Bethesda Art Walk April 8, 6-9pm www.bethesda.org/bethesda/galleries
Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board Meeting April 11- 7:00 pm The Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board (WMCCAB) will host their monthly meeting on Monday, April 11, 2011 from 7:00-9:00pm at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center located at 4805 Edgemoor Lane in Bethesda. The board will have discussion and approval of the County Executive’s FY12 budget.
Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) to Mark National Library Week With Online Customer Satisfaction Survey April 10-16 To help determine the effectiveness of its services and programs, MCPL will conduct a Customer Satisfaction Survey in its 20 branches during National Library Week, April 10-16. This year’s survey, for library customers 12 years of age and over, will be an online questionnaire available through the library website, www.montgomerycountymd.gov/library.
Bethesda Literary Festival April 15–17 www.bethesda.org/specialevents/litfest/litfest.htm
Free Financial Seminars to be Held in Bethesda Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 9:00am – “Macro Planning” Thursday, April 21, 2011 @ 11:30am - “Retirement Planning” The workshops will be held at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD. To register please send email to: richard.bingham@montgomerycountymd.gov or contact Richard at 240-777-8207 for further information.
The Department of Permitting Services Proposes Fee Revisions Effective July 1, 2011 You can review the proposed fees and provide comments by April 30, 2011 Click on the link below for more information www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/exec/Register/April11TOC.asp VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Montgomery County Volunteer Center www.montgomerycountymd.gov/volunteer
Montgomery County Board Vacancies
The deadline for application is April 11, 2011 for: • Department of Permitting Services Advisory Committee • Library Board • Strathmore Hall Foundation Board of Directors
The deadline for application is April 15, 2011 for: • Commission on Common Ownership Communities • Advisory Committee on Consumer Protection • Committee for Ethnic Affairs • Recreation Advisory Boards
The deadline for application is April 22, 2011 for: • Glen Echo Park Partnership Board of Directors • Committee on Hate/Violence • Noise Control Advisory Board • Sign Review Board
Please visit: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp
County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents.
Montgomery Councils Hosts 1st of 5 Public Hearings on FY12 Operating Budget
Release ID: 11-081
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
Also on Tuesday, April 5: Report on County Strategy for Bioscience, Briefing on Impact of Economic Downturn, Bill Limiting Roadside Solicitation by Employees
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 4, 2011—The Montgomery County Council at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5, will hold the first of five public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2012 Operating Budget. About 40 speakers have signed up to speak at Tuesday’s hearing, with many indicating they will be speaking in regard to the budget request for Montgomery County Public Schools.
The public hearing will conclude a full day for the Council that will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the start of the weekly general session in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The general session and the evening public hearing 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 April 8.
The other four public hearings on the FY12 Operating Budget will be held on Wednesday, April 6, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. and on Thursday, April 7, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. The Council will be discussing aspects of the budget in the ensuing six weeks and is scheduled to adopt the budget in late May. The budget will go into effect on July 1.
During the morning session on Tuesday, the Council will receive a briefing on the implementation strategy for bioscience in the County. Representatives of the County’s Department of Economic Development will brief the Council on programs to attract new biosciences businesses to the County and to help bolster businesses already located here. Among the speakers will be Richard Bendis, the president and CEO of Innovation America. He has been retained by the County to develop a plan to implement the strategies.
Also during the morning session, the Council will hold a worksession with representatives of the County Chamber of Commerce about how current economic conditions are impacting the County.
Bill 12-11 will be introduced before the Council during the morning session. The bill would amend the County Ethics law to prohibit a County employee from standing in a roadway, median divider or intersection during official work hours to solicit money or donations of any kind from the occupant of a vehicle. The bill’s chief sponsor is Councilmember Phil Andrews. Council President Valerie Ervin and Councilmember Craig Rice are co-sponsors of the proposed legislation.
The morning will begin with the presentation of a proclamation to the Good Counsel High School football team, which finished the 2010 season recognized as the No. 1 team in the Washington region.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will receive a semi-annual report from the Montgomery County Planning Board.
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil H. Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
Also on Tuesday, April 5: Report on County Strategy for Bioscience, Briefing on Impact of Economic Downturn, Bill Limiting Roadside Solicitation by Employees
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 4, 2011—The Montgomery County Council at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 5, will hold the first of five public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2012 Operating Budget. About 40 speakers have signed up to speak at Tuesday’s hearing, with many indicating they will be speaking in regard to the budget request for Montgomery County Public Schools.
The public hearing will conclude a full day for the Council that will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the start of the weekly general session in the Third Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The general session and the evening public hearing 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 April 8.
The other four public hearings on the FY12 Operating Budget will be held on Wednesday, April 6, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. and on Thursday, April 7, at 1:30 and 7 p.m. The Council will be discussing aspects of the budget in the ensuing six weeks and is scheduled to adopt the budget in late May. The budget will go into effect on July 1.
During the morning session on Tuesday, the Council will receive a briefing on the implementation strategy for bioscience in the County. Representatives of the County’s Department of Economic Development will brief the Council on programs to attract new biosciences businesses to the County and to help bolster businesses already located here. Among the speakers will be Richard Bendis, the president and CEO of Innovation America. He has been retained by the County to develop a plan to implement the strategies.
Also during the morning session, the Council will hold a worksession with representatives of the County Chamber of Commerce about how current economic conditions are impacting the County.
Bill 12-11 will be introduced before the Council during the morning session. The bill would amend the County Ethics law to prohibit a County employee from standing in a roadway, median divider or intersection during official work hours to solicit money or donations of any kind from the occupant of a vehicle. The bill’s chief sponsor is Councilmember Phil Andrews. Council President Valerie Ervin and Councilmember Craig Rice are co-sponsors of the proposed legislation.
The morning will begin with the presentation of a proclamation to the Good Counsel High School football team, which finished the 2010 season recognized as the No. 1 team in the Washington region.
At 1:30 p.m., the Council will receive a semi-annual report from the Montgomery County Planning Board.
Md. budget negotiators resolve key differences on state pension, health care costs
Maryland House and Senate negotiators tackled some of the thorniest budget questions Monday morning, resolving key differences over how to rein in the cost of the state’s pension and retiree health-care systems after talks stalled late last week.
State retirees will pay more for health care, but not as much as the Senate-backed proposal envisioned. Under the compromise plan, new state workers will receive a less generous retirement package and have to work 10 years instead of 5 to be eligible for retirement benefits.
“We ended up in a good place for retirees, but we don’t save nearly as much money,” said Sen. Edward J. Kasemeyer (D-Howard), chairman of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee.
The Senate approach, for instance, would have reduced the state’s annual pension payment by $20 million more than the House version, he said. For retiree health care, the compromise would cap out-of-pocket costs at $1,500, instead of $1,000 per individual as the House proposed. The Senate version would have gradually increased out-of-pocket expenses for retirees to ramp up to the higher federal Medicare rate. The cap is currently $700. SOURCE: Washington Post
State retirees will pay more for health care, but not as much as the Senate-backed proposal envisioned. Under the compromise plan, new state workers will receive a less generous retirement package and have to work 10 years instead of 5 to be eligible for retirement benefits.
“We ended up in a good place for retirees, but we don’t save nearly as much money,” said Sen. Edward J. Kasemeyer (D-Howard), chairman of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee.
The Senate approach, for instance, would have reduced the state’s annual pension payment by $20 million more than the House version, he said. For retiree health care, the compromise would cap out-of-pocket costs at $1,500, instead of $1,000 per individual as the House proposed. The Senate version would have gradually increased out-of-pocket expenses for retirees to ramp up to the higher federal Medicare rate. The cap is currently $700. SOURCE: Washington Post
Ten Blazers participate in annual Montgomery County Science Fair
Ten Blazers participated in Montgomery County's 55th Annual Science Fair from March 18-20. Senior Shilpa Kannan was the only Blazer to receive first place in her category of biochemistry and was the second runner up to attend the 2011 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). The fair took place in the Armory Building at the University of Maryland and was open to students throughout the county.
All 10 Blair contestants were members of the Science, Math and Computer Science Magnet Program, although the fair was open to all Montgomery County students from all programs and grade levels. Categories in the Science Fair include Behavioral and Social Science, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Space, Engineering, Environmental, Mathematics, Medicine and Health, Microbiology and Physics. In addition to placing in each category, students received various awards and recognitions from community organizations.
The Science Fair had over 400 participants including both high school and middle school students. Many Blair students entered the competition with their Senior Research Projects (SRP) or presented research performed during an internship.
According to senior Ajay Kannan, the Science Fair differed from other competitions because it required students to display their project and communicate their research to the judges, whereas in other competitions such as the Siemens competition, students only submit research reports for the beginning stages. Ajay found these differences to be a beneficial experience. "[The] science fair is centered on your ability to convey your research to a live audience," he said. "Both are extremely important for success as a scientist, so Iím grateful I had the opportunity to do both types." SOURCE: Silver Chips
All 10 Blair contestants were members of the Science, Math and Computer Science Magnet Program, although the fair was open to all Montgomery County students from all programs and grade levels. Categories in the Science Fair include Behavioral and Social Science, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth and Space, Engineering, Environmental, Mathematics, Medicine and Health, Microbiology and Physics. In addition to placing in each category, students received various awards and recognitions from community organizations.
The Science Fair had over 400 participants including both high school and middle school students. Many Blair students entered the competition with their Senior Research Projects (SRP) or presented research performed during an internship.
According to senior Ajay Kannan, the Science Fair differed from other competitions because it required students to display their project and communicate their research to the judges, whereas in other competitions such as the Siemens competition, students only submit research reports for the beginning stages. Ajay found these differences to be a beneficial experience. "[The] science fair is centered on your ability to convey your research to a live audience," he said. "Both are extremely important for success as a scientist, so Iím grateful I had the opportunity to do both types." SOURCE: Silver Chips
Montgomery County Agencies Address Latino Youth Social Disparities
April 05, 2011 - Today, Montgomery County agencies begin to figure out how to implement an ambitious plan that seeks to address many of the social disparities faced by Latino youth like 16-years-old Marvin Navarro who got kicked out of high school while back.
"I let myself get controlled by all of the gang stuff," Navarro says.
But he got a second chance through a community based program run by an organization called Identity.
"First, after I get my GED I'm going to go to college. I’m going to study to be an automotive technician, then I’m going to work on cars and open my own business,” he says.
Navarro‘s case is not unique. Latino young people have the highest rate of high school dropouts and teen pregnancies in Montgomery County, and surveys indicate the youngsters feel they have little support from their families or community. County Executive Ike Legget has tasked county agencies with providing more culturally competent help for Latinos. SOURCE: WAMU
"I let myself get controlled by all of the gang stuff," Navarro says.
But he got a second chance through a community based program run by an organization called Identity.
"First, after I get my GED I'm going to go to college. I’m going to study to be an automotive technician, then I’m going to work on cars and open my own business,” he says.
Navarro‘s case is not unique. Latino young people have the highest rate of high school dropouts and teen pregnancies in Montgomery County, and surveys indicate the youngsters feel they have little support from their families or community. County Executive Ike Legget has tasked county agencies with providing more culturally competent help for Latinos. SOURCE: WAMU
Montgomery Council Committee to Discuss MCPS FY12 Operating Budget Request
Release ID: 11-080
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 1, 2011—The Montgomery County Council’s Education Committee at 2 p.m. on Monday, April 4, will start its review of the operating budget request for Fiscal Year 2012 from Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The school system has requested a total of $2.2 billion for next year, an increase of $101 million (4.8 percent over the FY11 approved level).
The Education Committee, which is chaired by Council President Valerie Ervin and includes Councilmembers Phil Andrews and Craig Rice, will meet in the Third Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The meeting 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 MCPS budget request does not include a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for employees, but does include $32.4 million for continuing salaries, including step increases and associated benefits. The funding request includes $17.5 million to address an anticipated enrollment increase of 2,645 over the FY11 enrollment. It also addresses needs for increased enrollment of students with Limited English Proficiency and students from families with low incomes. For the current school year, approximately 13 percent of students participate in ESOL services and nearly 31 percent are eligible for Free and Reduced Priced Meals. Both figures are expected to increase in FY12.
At 3:30 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee, which is chaired by Council Vice President Berliner and includes Councilmembers Nancy Floreen and Hans Riemer, will hold a worksession on Bill 8-11 that would create a five-cent charge on each paper or plastic bag provided by a retail establishment to a customer at point of sale, pickup or delivery. The bill is intended to inspire consumers to use more reusable bags, which in turn could lead to fewer bags littering the environment. A March 31 public hearing on the fee, which was proposed by County Executive Isiah Leggett, had more than 25 speakers.
At 9:30 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, a joint meeting of the Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee, which is chaired by Councilmember Floreen and includes Marc Elrich and George Leventhal, and the Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Elrich and Council Vice President Berliner, will discuss a recommendation of the Organizational Reform Commission that the County merge its Park Police force into the County’s Police Department.
At 11 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, the PHED Committee will review a supplemental appropriation of $710,000 for the Montgomery County Revenue Authority that would be for the Germantown Indoor Swim Center.
At 2 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, a joint meeting of the PHED Committee and the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee will receive a briefing on the progress of a consultant’s study on re-evaluating the parking space requirements in the County Zoning Ordinance regarding commercial and mixed-use developments—especially in Metro Station Policy Areas. The study also is looking at alternative models of providing for, and funding of, the construction, operation and maintenance of public parking facilities.
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 1, 2011—The Montgomery County Council’s Education Committee at 2 p.m. on Monday, April 4, will start its review of the operating budget request for Fiscal Year 2012 from Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The school system has requested a total of $2.2 billion for next year, an increase of $101 million (4.8 percent over the FY11 approved level).
The Education Committee, which is chaired by Council President Valerie Ervin and includes Councilmembers Phil Andrews and Craig Rice, will meet in the Third Floor Conference Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville. The meeting 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 MCPS budget request does not include a Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for employees, but does include $32.4 million for continuing salaries, including step increases and associated benefits. The funding request includes $17.5 million to address an anticipated enrollment increase of 2,645 over the FY11 enrollment. It also addresses needs for increased enrollment of students with Limited English Proficiency and students from families with low incomes. For the current school year, approximately 13 percent of students participate in ESOL services and nearly 31 percent are eligible for Free and Reduced Priced Meals. Both figures are expected to increase in FY12.
At 3:30 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee, which is chaired by Council Vice President Berliner and includes Councilmembers Nancy Floreen and Hans Riemer, will hold a worksession on Bill 8-11 that would create a five-cent charge on each paper or plastic bag provided by a retail establishment to a customer at point of sale, pickup or delivery. The bill is intended to inspire consumers to use more reusable bags, which in turn could lead to fewer bags littering the environment. A March 31 public hearing on the fee, which was proposed by County Executive Isiah Leggett, had more than 25 speakers.
At 9:30 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, a joint meeting of the Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee, which is chaired by Councilmember Floreen and includes Marc Elrich and George Leventhal, and the Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Elrich and Council Vice President Berliner, will discuss a recommendation of the Organizational Reform Commission that the County merge its Park Police force into the County’s Police Department.
At 11 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, the PHED Committee will review a supplemental appropriation of $710,000 for the Montgomery County Revenue Authority that would be for the Germantown Indoor Swim Center.
At 2 p.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room, a joint meeting of the PHED Committee and the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee will receive a briefing on the progress of a consultant’s study on re-evaluating the parking space requirements in the County Zoning Ordinance regarding commercial and mixed-use developments—especially in Metro Station Policy Areas. The study also is looking at alternative models of providing for, and funding of, the construction, operation and maintenance of public parking facilities.
April 4, 2011
Montgomery County Boys Lose to Prince George's County in All Star Game
Montgomery County's Enerio Jones (Springbrook) goes up for a layup over Timmone Whatley (Douglass) during the first half of the All Star Game at Wise High School on Sunday, April 3, 2011. Prince George's County beat Montgomery County 84 to 73. Credit Emma Patti. SOURCERockville Patch
Montgomery County Police are on the scene of an armored car robbery at a Bank of America in White Oak.
Police say that the robbery took place at 9:57 a.m. at the Bank of America branch at 11499 Columbia Pike.
The suspect, described as a 5'7" black male with a beard, sunglasses and a winter hat, fled the scene in a blue two-door Chevrolet Cavalier.
The suspect is armed, police say. SOURCE: TBD
Md. Senate seeks to crack down on motorists passing school buses
Local jurisdictions across Maryland would be allowed to install monitoring cameras on school buses to catch more motorists who disregard their “stop” sings, under a bill that won approval 38 to 7 in the Senate on Friday.
Motorists caught by the cameras would be subject to a civil penalty of up to $250.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. David R. Brinkley (R-Frederick), aims to cut down on what educators say remains a big problem despite a criminal law on the books that subjects violators to a fine of up to $1,000 if stopped by a police officer. A one-day survey released in February by state education officials showed 7,028 reported violations by vehicles passing school buses with flashing red lights and stop signs. The actual number that day was actually significantly higher, because only about two-thirds of bus drivers returned the surveys.
The bill now moves to the House of Delegates, where its fate is uncertain. A similar bill was voted down earlier in the session by a House committee. During Senate debate, opponents of the legislation said the money spent on cameras would be better used on law enforcement and education about the existing law. SOURCE: Washington Post
The bill, sponsored by Sen. David R. Brinkley (R-Frederick), aims to cut down on what educators say remains a big problem despite a criminal law on the books that subjects violators to a fine of up to $1,000 if stopped by a police officer. A one-day survey released in February by state education officials showed 7,028 reported violations by vehicles passing school buses with flashing red lights and stop signs. The actual number that day was actually significantly higher, because only about two-thirds of bus drivers returned the surveys.
The bill now moves to the House of Delegates, where its fate is uncertain. A similar bill was voted down earlier in the session by a House committee. During Senate debate, opponents of the legislation said the money spent on cameras would be better used on law enforcement and education about the existing law. SOURCE: Washington Post
Montgomery Council Approves Changes to Housing Element of County’s General Plan
Release ID: 11-079
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 4, 2011—The Montgomery County Council on March 29 unanimously approved revisions to the Housing Element of the County’s “General Plan,” making changes that will guide the development of new housing and redevelopment of existing housing over the next two decades while also seeking to protect the character of existing neighborhoods.
The Housing Element of the General Plan is intended to be a 20-year policy document that drives decisions made in the formulating and updating of master plans, sector plans and zoning text amendments. The Council’s Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee, which is chaired by Nancy Floreen and includes Councilmembers Marc Elrich and George Leventhal, has been holding worksessions on updating the Housing Element over the past couple of months.
The Montgomery County Planning Board previously proposed updates to the Housing Element. As part of their worksessions, the PHED Committee discussed the Planning Board’s intent to describe how most future new development in the County will create communities that have higher density housing, depend more on residents using public transit and less on using automobiles. These communities would likely be mixed use, with office, retail, entertainment and recreation opportunities nearby to residences—lending themselves to being walkable.
The Housing Element continues to emphasize the County’s goals for all types of housing for ranges of household income.
“Recognizing the changing demographics of the County, the approved Housing Element of the General Plan will be a guiding tool for land use planning to help the County provide all types of housing to all income levels,” said Council President Valerie Ervin. “While the County seeks to provide for a new generation of residents, we recognize the importance of preserving existing neighborhoods and have adopted a plan that preserves many of the housing elements that make Montgomery County a great place to call home.”
The amendments that the Council adopted put stronger emphasis than did the Planning Board draft in regard to protecting existing neighborhoods that will be adjoined by newer, high-density neighborhoods. The Council’s amendments also encourage the County to diligently enforce housing codes to prevent deterioration of housing in existing neighborhoods and to prevent overcrowding in those neighborhoods.
PHED Committee recommendations that the Council adopted include policies to strengthen established neighborhoods through targeted programs that improve schools, parks, safety and new or upgraded pedestrian and bicycling facilities. Other policy revisions would ensure that infill development complements existing houses and neighborhoods and protects residential neighborhoods from excessive traffic that could result from new development.
“The amended housing element provides needed and reachable guidelines for the type of new development that will come to Montgomery County over the next 20 years,” said Councilmember Floreen. “In addition, we made sure that the existing neighborhoods—neighborhoods that have given Montgomery County its character and helped make it such a desirable place to live—will continue to not only sustain, but also to thrive in a way that will continue to give us variety in the types of housing available in our communities.”
The PHED Committee also recommended amending the Housing Element to reflect actions the County is already taking to require and encourage the use of green design and materials and to improve energy efficiency.
Release Date: 4/4/2011
Contact: Neil Greenberger 240-777-7939 or Delphine Harriston240-777-7931
From: Council Office
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 4, 2011—The Montgomery County Council on March 29 unanimously approved revisions to the Housing Element of the County’s “General Plan,” making changes that will guide the development of new housing and redevelopment of existing housing over the next two decades while also seeking to protect the character of existing neighborhoods.
The Housing Element of the General Plan is intended to be a 20-year policy document that drives decisions made in the formulating and updating of master plans, sector plans and zoning text amendments. The Council’s Planning, Housing and Economic Development (PHED) Committee, which is chaired by Nancy Floreen and includes Councilmembers Marc Elrich and George Leventhal, has been holding worksessions on updating the Housing Element over the past couple of months.
The Montgomery County Planning Board previously proposed updates to the Housing Element. As part of their worksessions, the PHED Committee discussed the Planning Board’s intent to describe how most future new development in the County will create communities that have higher density housing, depend more on residents using public transit and less on using automobiles. These communities would likely be mixed use, with office, retail, entertainment and recreation opportunities nearby to residences—lending themselves to being walkable.
The Housing Element continues to emphasize the County’s goals for all types of housing for ranges of household income.
“Recognizing the changing demographics of the County, the approved Housing Element of the General Plan will be a guiding tool for land use planning to help the County provide all types of housing to all income levels,” said Council President Valerie Ervin. “While the County seeks to provide for a new generation of residents, we recognize the importance of preserving existing neighborhoods and have adopted a plan that preserves many of the housing elements that make Montgomery County a great place to call home.”
The amendments that the Council adopted put stronger emphasis than did the Planning Board draft in regard to protecting existing neighborhoods that will be adjoined by newer, high-density neighborhoods. The Council’s amendments also encourage the County to diligently enforce housing codes to prevent deterioration of housing in existing neighborhoods and to prevent overcrowding in those neighborhoods.
PHED Committee recommendations that the Council adopted include policies to strengthen established neighborhoods through targeted programs that improve schools, parks, safety and new or upgraded pedestrian and bicycling facilities. Other policy revisions would ensure that infill development complements existing houses and neighborhoods and protects residential neighborhoods from excessive traffic that could result from new development.
“The amended housing element provides needed and reachable guidelines for the type of new development that will come to Montgomery County over the next 20 years,” said Councilmember Floreen. “In addition, we made sure that the existing neighborhoods—neighborhoods that have given Montgomery County its character and helped make it such a desirable place to live—will continue to not only sustain, but also to thrive in a way that will continue to give us variety in the types of housing available in our communities.”
The PHED Committee also recommended amending the Housing Element to reflect actions the County is already taking to require and encourage the use of green design and materials and to improve energy efficiency.
Md. says Verizon may have violated state law during 911 outages
BALTIMORE — Maryland's utility regulator says Verizon might have violated state law when it failed to notify emergency call centers about network problems that prevented thousands of 911 calls from going through.
The problems occurred in Montgomery and Prince George's counties. The Maryland Public Service Commission found that four times since last July, large numbers of cellphone users got busy signals when they called 911.
The most high-profile incident was during the Jan. 26 snowstorm that stranded commuters for hours. That day, about 10,000 calls didn't go through — 8,300 of them in Montgomery County. The commission could fine Verizon up to $10,000 for each of the four outages. Verizon officials are scheduled to argue their case before the commission Tuesday. The company is the sole provider of 911 services in Maryland. SOURCE: The Republic
The most high-profile incident was during the Jan. 26 snowstorm that stranded commuters for hours. That day, about 10,000 calls didn't go through — 8,300 of them in Montgomery County. The commission could fine Verizon up to $10,000 for each of the four outages. Verizon officials are scheduled to argue their case before the commission Tuesday. The company is the sole provider of 911 services in Maryland. SOURCE: The Republic
Environmentalists speak in support of Montgomery County bag tax
During a recent clean-up of Rock Creek in Montgomery County, Beth Mullin found a plastic bag from Peoples Drug — a pharmacy chain that hasn't been around since the early 1990s.
"Seventeen years is nothing in the life of a plastic bag," Mullin, executive director of the nonprofit Friends of Rock Creek's Environment, told the County Council on Thursday.
She was one of 26 speakers at a public hearing on County Executive Isiah Leggett's proposed nickel-per-bag tax on plastic and paper bags. She and other environmentalists say the tax will help prevent shopping bags from becoming litter in the county's streams and rivers. However, several speakers criticized the fee, saying it was unnecessary and punished residents who already recycle their bags. SOURCE: Gazette
"Seventeen years is nothing in the life of a plastic bag," Mullin, executive director of the nonprofit Friends of Rock Creek's Environment, told the County Council on Thursday.
She was one of 26 speakers at a public hearing on County Executive Isiah Leggett's proposed nickel-per-bag tax on plastic and paper bags. She and other environmentalists say the tax will help prevent shopping bags from becoming litter in the county's streams and rivers. However, several speakers criticized the fee, saying it was unnecessary and punished residents who already recycle their bags. SOURCE: Gazette
Paws in the Park Coming to Gaithersburg
The Montgomery County Human Society's Paws in the Park Dog Walking Festival this year will be combined with Gaithersburg's Bark in the Park.
The festivals, April 23 from noon to 4 p.m. at Bohrer Park, encourage dogs and their owners to participate in a 1-mile walk, pet games and contests, demos, rescue groups, a “flealess” market with over 50 pet-friendly vendors, food, music, and raffles.
Entrance fees are $20 per person, or $35 for a family.
April 3, 2011
Electric car charging station opens in Baltimore, O'Malley wants 65 running by June
ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Electric car drivers can now "fill their tanks" at a charging station in Baltimore.
A public charging station for electric cars opened Thursday in the city's Mount Royal neighborhood, joining stations at the Community College of Baltimore County campus in Catonsville and at a Westminster shopping center.
The Maryland Energy Administration has floated $500,000 in grants to help build 65 stations by June. Meanwhile, the House of Delegates passed a proposal last week by Gov. Martin O'Malley to give tax credits to anyone who installs electric car charging equipment. The bill is awaiting a vote in a Senate committee.SOURCEGreenfield reporter
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