When it opened a few weeks ago, the new Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza quickly became a mecca for dozens of skateboarders who flock downtown daily to perform tricks and flips for crowds of onlookers. But Montgomery County officials banned the boarders from the plaza July 26, saying that the area is showing undue wear-and-tear from the grinding and scraping of skateboards.
"Skateboarding is a tremendously healthy activity," said Reemberto Rodriguez, director of the Silver Spring Regional Services Center. "At the same time, there is unintentional -- underscore unintentional -- real damage being done to the railings and the wooden benches and some of the concrete steps."
The county-owned building and plaza, touted as "Silver Spring's living room," is designed to host community meetings and activities, such as the Silver Spring jazz festival, weekly concerts and art showcases. The plaza and rooms also are available for rental to private parties, such as for weddings and bar or bat mitzvahs. Luckily for the throng of tweens, teens and adults who need a safe, open space in which to skate in peace, a new county-operated skate spot opened July 30 at Woodside Park, at Georgia Avenue and Spring Street, Rodriguez said. The park is about a half-mile from Veterans Plaza and is adjacent to basketball, handball and tennis courts.
But when county staff members and local skateboarders met July 28 to discuss the future of skateboarding in Silver Spring now that the plaza ban is in place, some skaters said the new venue is not big enough to hold more than seven skaters at a time. The meeting ended with an agreement that the skaters would present Rodriguez with a letter detailing their needs so that both sides could find a solution. The decision to ban skating in the plaza came from County Executive Isiah Leggett (D), Rodriguez said. The county has the right to control activity in a public space if the activity has a negative impact on the safety and welfare of residents, he added. SOURCE: Washington Post
August 5, 2010
Man arrested in synagogue vandalism
With a police officer approaching, Ian Baron appears to have tried to get out in front of the story early Sunday morning at a McDonald's in Montgomery County.
"Is it about the synagogue?" asked the 22-year-old with Nazi tattoos on his arm and chest, police said. He went on to explain why his fingerprints would be found on cans of spray paint outside a desecrated synagogue half a mile away, according to police accounts filed Wednesday.
Baron's explanation didn't wash, said police, who arrested him on three charges related to $15,000 to $20,000 in damage at the B'nai Shalom Synagogue in Olney a week ago. He was being held on $5,000 bond Wednesday. Baron grew up in Olney, 10 miles north of the Capital Beltway. In recent years, he has shown an affinity for drinking and violence, according to court records, and made no secret of his neo-Nazi views. Officers who worked the Olney area knew him as homeless. He was recently caught drinking at a bus stop and had been sleeping in a friend's vehicle and in a shack with "White's Only" painted on the front door, according to court records and police sources.
Court records show he has not yet retained an attorney in the case. A call to a defense attorney who has represented Baron in the past was not returned Wednesday. Sometime the night of July 25 or early July 26, the synagogue was spray-painted with anti-Semitic graffiti and swastikas on its exterior walls, retaining walls, light posts and in a parking lot. Also, loose change was scattered near the entrance. Among the markings were "Juden raus," which means "Jews out" and was used by Nazis, and "Work will set u free," a reference to a sign over the Auschwitz concentration camp. SOURCE: Baltimore Sun
COUNTY EXECUTIVE'S OFFICE: Be prepared for more White Flint taxes
A quiet week is predicted. The biggest question for the White Flint Sector Plan remains the Montgomery County Executive’s proposal to raise taxes on all White Flint residents to pay for needed infrastructure (the Planning Board had recommended a far different proposal, with most funds coming from a special tax levied only on new commercial development in the area and no new residential taxes). Vacation schedules are impeding progress, and the upcoming September primary elections make it unlikely that most County officials will spend significant time on this topic. But, thanks to Dave Freishtat, Friends of White Flint Board member representing the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce, and also expert in financing policy, here’s a brief update:
County Executive: No financing plan will be possible without the active participation of the County Executive, so his views are critical. Ike Leggett’s chief staffer on this issue is Diane Jones, who described the earlier proposal to tax all existing White Flint residents as only a “very rough and virtually unvetted draft.” The Executive’s office is holding “stakeholder” meetings on the draft. As of the end of last week, no more fleshed-out proposal was forthcoming.
County Council: Despite several promises to have financing legislation introduced by the end of July, the Council can’t proceed without the County Executive’s draft. So the Council is into recess now, with elections upcoming, and little is likely to happen in the next few weeks. Friends of White Flint will hold a community meeting when (and if) a financing plan is introduced. But in the absence of a concrete response from the Executive’s office, that meeting has not been scheduled. We’ll let you know when we hear something. SOURCE: Friends of White Flint by Barnaby Zall
County Executive: No financing plan will be possible without the active participation of the County Executive, so his views are critical. Ike Leggett’s chief staffer on this issue is Diane Jones, who described the earlier proposal to tax all existing White Flint residents as only a “very rough and virtually unvetted draft.” The Executive’s office is holding “stakeholder” meetings on the draft. As of the end of last week, no more fleshed-out proposal was forthcoming.
County Council: Despite several promises to have financing legislation introduced by the end of July, the Council can’t proceed without the County Executive’s draft. So the Council is into recess now, with elections upcoming, and little is likely to happen in the next few weeks. Friends of White Flint will hold a community meeting when (and if) a financing plan is introduced. But in the absence of a concrete response from the Executive’s office, that meeting has not been scheduled. We’ll let you know when we hear something. SOURCE: Friends of White Flint by Barnaby Zall
Habitat for Humanity achieves No. 8 on the 'Builder 100' list
GAITHERSBURG, MD (August 4, 2010) – May, 2010 marked a historic month for Habitat for Humanity
International and its affiliates. Habitat achieved the rank of No. 8 on Builder magazine’s Builder 100 list,
marking the first time the nonprofit has been among the top 10 biggest builders in the United States.
“Habitat for Humanity affiliates have been working in more than 1,500 communities in the U.S. to ensure that more than 5,200 families had a new or renovated affordable home to live in last year,” said Mark Andrews, senior director of U.S. Operations for Habitat for Humanity International. “We could not have accomplished this work without the sustained support of local leaders, volunteers and donors.”
In 2009, Habitat affiliates in the U.S. rehabilitated 710 homes, up from 621 homes in 2008. Around the world, Habitat for Humanity helped 61,005 low-income families by building 23,657 new homes and rehabilitating or repairing 37,348 homes. In Montgomery County, MD, 13 vacant foreclosed homes were rehabilitated in the last 12 months through Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County’s (HFH-MC) Neighborhood Revitalization Program. Green building techniques such as enhanced insulation, draft stopping, Low E windows and Energy Star appliances contribute to energy savings. Homes are re-sold to low-income families with a long term zero interest mortgage. Homeowners must contribute a minimum of 200 hours of “sweat equity” prior to purchasing their home.
“Achieving the rank of No. 8 on Builder magazine’s Builder 100 list demonstrates the focus and commitment that Habitat affiliates throughout the country have to eliminating poverty housing” said John Paukstis, HFH-MC Executive Director.
Builder magazine’s annual Builder 100 List compiles data provided by the nation’s builders, including their closings. To view the complete Builder 100 List visit Builder magazine’s website at http://www.builderonline.com/builder100/2009.aspx
About Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County MD (HFH-MC)
HFH-MC is an affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International. Since 1982, Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County has been partnering with the community to build simple, decent, affordable housing for low-income families. In the last 4 years, HFH-MC has built or rehabilitated 37 homes for local families and has several more homes in progress. HFH-MC supports the notion that good, stable housing matters for neighborhoods. Better quality of living leads to stronger citizens and families. Habitat for Humanity is about changing lives, one home at a time. Visit our website at www.habitat- mc.org
August 4, 2010
Montgomery County news blurbs
Metro Board to Meet with NTSB Members - The Metro Board of Directors and members of the National Transportation Safety Board will meet at 2:30 pm on Monday, August 9, at Metro headquarters. The groups will discuss last week‚s NTSB findings and recommendations related to the June 22, 2009, accident. The meeting will be held at Metro headquarters, 600 Fifth Street, NW, in downtown Washington.
Weekly Crime Summaries - Rockville City Weekly Crime Summary - August 2, 2010. To view go to http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=37868
GODSPELL - A musical production by Musical Theater Center for ages 8 and up at Randolph Road Theater, 4010 Randolph Road, Silver Spring. Shows on August 14 and August 15, 2010. Tickets are $8:00; call 301-251-5766 today to reserve your tickets to this amazing performance.
Rockville's Cable Channel 11 is Looking for Interns - The City of Rockville's cable channel, Rockville 11, is seeking qualified interns for Fall 2010. Interns will have the opportunity to write, report, produce and edit at Rockville 11 as well as work across all mediums within the Communication Office (print, web, public information). This is an unpaid internship. For more information go to: http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=20704
MCPS - First day of school is Monday, August 30, plan ahead with the school calendar; learn how to enroll your child go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/
Deloitte Consulting Federal IM Golf Tournament - Please join us on September 21st for a great day of golf to benefit The Children's Inn at NIH Falls at the Road Golf Course, 10800 Falls Road, Potomac, MD! The event will include a 4-person scramble, lunch and an awards reception. Golfers can purchase mulligans to enter a raffle to win a once in a lifetime golf experience at the Homestead's Cascades Golf Course in Hot Springs, Virginia. For more information go to: http://www.golfdigestplanner.com/16445-IM_Charity_Golf_Tournament/index.html
Six Montgomery County Public Libraries Begin Year-Round Sunday Service - Beginning August 15, the following Montgomery County public libraries will be open on Sundays year-round -- except on certain major holiday weekends -- from 1 to 5 pm: Bethesda, Germantown, Marilyn J. Praisner, Rockville Memorial, Silver Spring and Wheaton. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6809
Rockville Councilmember Gajewski to Host Townhall Meeting Aug. 19 - Rockville City Councilmember Piotr Gajewski will host a Townhall meeting on Thursday, Aug. 19, at 8 pm in the Mayor and Council chambers at Rockville City Hall. The agenda for the meeting will include a discussion of recent Mayor and Council action items, as well as an open forum for residents to ask questions or share their views on Rockville-related issues and projects. The meeting will not be televised. The meeting will be held at Rockville City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave. For more information, call the City Clerk's Office at 240-314-8280.
Coffee & Conversation - Stop by and chat with Ken Hartman, Director of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center. Find out about programs and services in Montgomery County, learn more about the Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board and their role in the community, or just bring your concerns for your community to discuss. Any time between 9:00 am and 12:00 noon ˆ Friday, August 6, 2010.
Weekly Crime Summaries - Rockville City Weekly Crime Summary - August 2, 2010. To view go to http://connectedcommunities.us/showthread.php?t=37868
GODSPELL - A musical production by Musical Theater Center for ages 8 and up at Randolph Road Theater, 4010 Randolph Road, Silver Spring. Shows on August 14 and August 15, 2010. Tickets are $8:00; call 301-251-5766 today to reserve your tickets to this amazing performance.
Rockville's Cable Channel 11 is Looking for Interns - The City of Rockville's cable channel, Rockville 11, is seeking qualified interns for Fall 2010. Interns will have the opportunity to write, report, produce and edit at Rockville 11 as well as work across all mediums within the Communication Office (print, web, public information). This is an unpaid internship. For more information go to: http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=20704
MCPS - First day of school is Monday, August 30, plan ahead with the school calendar; learn how to enroll your child go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/info/enroll/
Deloitte Consulting Federal IM Golf Tournament - Please join us on September 21st for a great day of golf to benefit The Children's Inn at NIH Falls at the Road Golf Course, 10800 Falls Road, Potomac, MD! The event will include a 4-person scramble, lunch and an awards reception. Golfers can purchase mulligans to enter a raffle to win a once in a lifetime golf experience at the Homestead's Cascades Golf Course in Hot Springs, Virginia. For more information go to: http://www.golfdigestplanner.com/16445-IM_Charity_Golf_Tournament/index.html
Six Montgomery County Public Libraries Begin Year-Round Sunday Service - Beginning August 15, the following Montgomery County public libraries will be open on Sundays year-round -- except on certain major holiday weekends -- from 1 to 5 pm: Bethesda, Germantown, Marilyn J. Praisner, Rockville Memorial, Silver Spring and Wheaton. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6809
Rockville Councilmember Gajewski to Host Townhall Meeting Aug. 19 - Rockville City Councilmember Piotr Gajewski will host a Townhall meeting on Thursday, Aug. 19, at 8 pm in the Mayor and Council chambers at Rockville City Hall. The agenda for the meeting will include a discussion of recent Mayor and Council action items, as well as an open forum for residents to ask questions or share their views on Rockville-related issues and projects. The meeting will not be televised. The meeting will be held at Rockville City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave. For more information, call the City Clerk's Office at 240-314-8280.
Coffee & Conversation - Stop by and chat with Ken Hartman, Director of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center. Find out about programs and services in Montgomery County, learn more about the Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board and their role in the community, or just bring your concerns for your community to discuss. Any time between 9:00 am and 12:00 noon ˆ Friday, August 6, 2010.
Sarah Palin endorses Brian Murphy over Bob Ehrlich
WASILLA, ALASKA and CROFTON, MARYLAND -- Today, Brian Murphy, Republican Candidate for Governor of Maryland, received the endorsement of Governor Sarah Palin. In endorsing Murphy, Governor Palin acknowledges the national implications of Maryland’s Gubernatorial Race.
“I’m honored to endorse Brian Murphy for Governor of Maryland. Brian is a pro-life, pro-Second Amendment commonsense conservative and a firm believer in the free market and the cause for energy independence. As a former energy industry executive and current small business owner, Brian has the private sector experience that is so lacking in government today. He knows how to incentivize industry to get our economy moving again. Together with his running mate for lieutenant governor, Mike Ryman, Brian will provide Maryland with principled and results oriented leadership.
Please join me in supporting Brian by visiting his website at www.brianmurphy2010.com and following him on Facebook and Twitter.” In response to Palin’s endorsement, Murphy issued the following statement:
“I am humbled and honored to receive Governor Palin’s endorsement. Governor Palin has served her city, her state, her country, and her party with distinction. Governor Palin has always been led by principle, conviction and character. I look forward to working with her as we unify the Republican Party in Maryland, and around the country, on its core principles. Governor Palin’s endorsement is an honor and a privilege,” said Murphy.
“I’m honored to endorse Brian Murphy for Governor of Maryland. Brian is a pro-life, pro-Second Amendment commonsense conservative and a firm believer in the free market and the cause for energy independence. As a former energy industry executive and current small business owner, Brian has the private sector experience that is so lacking in government today. He knows how to incentivize industry to get our economy moving again. Together with his running mate for lieutenant governor, Mike Ryman, Brian will provide Maryland with principled and results oriented leadership.
Please join me in supporting Brian by visiting his website at www.brianmurphy2010.com and following him on Facebook and Twitter.” In response to Palin’s endorsement, Murphy issued the following statement:
“I am humbled and honored to receive Governor Palin’s endorsement. Governor Palin has served her city, her state, her country, and her party with distinction. Governor Palin has always been led by principle, conviction and character. I look forward to working with her as we unify the Republican Party in Maryland, and around the country, on its core principles. Governor Palin’s endorsement is an honor and a privilege,” said Murphy.
August 3, 2010
Vovak calls ambulance for doctor
I was just with a doctor for the past 30 minutes who got excessively dizzy by a Starbucks. Out of the blue, he asked me to get him some water, which I did. Then I sat on a bench with him, waiting for his wife to arrive. Later he asked me to call an ambulance. I hope he is okay.
'Night Out' in Montgomery tonight
As is their annual custom, Montgomery County's police chief, top prosecutor and top elected official will load into the police chief's car to visit anti-crime gatherings Tuesday evening as part of National Night Out. The nationwide event highlights neighborhood watch programs and police-community partnerships. The trio of officials -- Chief J. Thomas Manger, State's Attorney John McCarthy, and County Executive Isiah Leggett -- are slated to make their first stop in the Watkins Mill community at 4:10 p.m. and make stops over the next 4-plus hours. Here is their itinerary of stops and other National Night Out gatherings in Montgomery this evening.
Montgomery County news blurbs
Connected Communities Crime Summary - Weekly Crime Summaries for all six police districts, Rockville City, and Takoma Park were published July 26 to July 29. Summaries are published in Weekly Crime Summaries:
http://connectedcommunities.us/forumdisplay.php?f=81
New Signs on Fare Machines will Clarify Fares for Riders - Metrorail‚s second phase of fare changes will take effect Tuesday, August 3, as Metro makes sign changes to clarify the fares posted on the signs on fare vending machines and station kiosks. For more information go to: http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4594
RainScapes Gazette - Mid Summer Special Edition, July 2010 - To view go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/rsc/eastco/Newsletters/pdfs/rainscapesgazette_special_edition_summer_2010.pdf. Rainscapes Rewards Rebates . Applications are ready for use! New Techniques added to the program. Pavement Removal
The new FY 11 RainScapes Rebate applications are now available. Residents are encouraged to review the new application process, requirements, and criteria guidelines as well as the new approved rebate amounts. Applications can be downloaded by visiting: www.rainscapes.org or on the rebate page go to http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dectmpl.asp?url=/content/dep/water/rainrebate.asp
Public Advised Nighttime Work at the Silver Spring Transit Center to Begin the Week of August 23; Work Will Continue Every Other Week Through January ˆ Beginning the week of August 23, residents and employees in the vicinity of the Silver Spring Transit Center (SSTC) site ˆ bordered by Colesville Road, the Metro Red Line Station, Wayne Avenue and Ramsey Avenue ˆ are advised that crews will begin nighttime concrete deliveries between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. every other week through January. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6803
EPA Announces Nation‚s Top 50 Green Power Organizations - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has named the 50 green power partners using the most renewable electricity. For more information go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/14f16537509811468525777300580126!OpenDocument
Summer in the City - We all love the lazy days of summer ˜ maybe you‚re going to take a few days off to unwind; make new friends at summer camp; take in a community event; or spend time with friends and family- or maybe you‚re looking for something new to try. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillemd.gov/events/summer
County-wide Food Drive at the 2010 Montgomery County Fair August 13th-21st - Bring a non-perishable food donation to the Montgomery County Fair in Gaithersburg on August 13-21. Manna volunteers will be on hand at the entrance gates to collect the donations. Demand for emergency food assistance remains at record high levels and this winter is predicted to be the most challenging yet for families struggling to put food on the table. Your donations will help Manna restock our shelves so Manna can provide food to our neighbors in need.
New Signs on Fare Machines will Clarify Fares for Riders - Metrorail‚s second phase of fare changes will take effect Tuesday, August 3, as Metro makes sign changes to clarify the fares posted on the signs on fare vending machines and station kiosks. For more information go to: http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4594
RainScapes Gazette - Mid Summer Special Edition, July 2010 - To view go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/rsc/eastco/Newsletters/pdfs/rainscapesgazette_special_edition_summer_2010.pdf. Rainscapes Rewards Rebates . Applications are ready for use! New Techniques added to the program. Pavement Removal
The new FY 11 RainScapes Rebate applications are now available. Residents are encouraged to review the new application process, requirements, and criteria guidelines as well as the new approved rebate amounts. Applications can be downloaded by visiting: www.rainscapes.org
Public Advised Nighttime Work at the Silver Spring Transit Center to Begin the Week of August 23; Work Will Continue Every Other Week Through January ˆ Beginning the week of August 23, residents and employees in the vicinity of the Silver Spring Transit Center (SSTC) site ˆ bordered by Colesville Road, the Metro Red Line Station, Wayne Avenue and Ramsey Avenue ˆ are advised that crews will begin nighttime concrete deliveries between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. every other week through January. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6803
EPA Announces Nation‚s Top 50 Green Power Organizations - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has named the 50 green power partners using the most renewable electricity. For more information go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/14f16537509811468525777300580126!OpenDocument
Summer in the City - We all love the lazy days of summer ˜ maybe you‚re going to take a few days off to unwind; make new friends at summer camp; take in a community event; or spend time with friends and family- or maybe you‚re looking for something new to try. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillemd.gov/events/summer
County-wide Food Drive at the 2010 Montgomery County Fair August 13th-21st - Bring a non-perishable food donation to the Montgomery County Fair in Gaithersburg on August 13-21. Manna volunteers will be on hand at the entrance gates to collect the donations. Demand for emergency food assistance remains at record high levels and this winter is predicted to be the most challenging yet for families struggling to put food on the table. Your donations will help Manna restock our shelves so Manna can provide food to our neighbors in need.
MOCO FUTURE? Rolling firehouse brownouts begin in Philly
The city has started temporarily closing fire stations in order to balance its budget. The rolling "brownouts" began with the closing of three fire companies as of 8:05 a.m. Monday. Union members hosted a news conference as Engine 57 shut its doors for the day in West Philadelphia. Union officials said the closures are creating unsafe conditions in affected neighborhoods. The city says these rotating brownouts will not have an impact on public safety and firefighters from those companies will be redeployed to other companies or will undergo training.
Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers said in the past, five companies a day were closed to training. But now only two companies per day will go to training.
"This is a game. This is moving pieces around in order to affect protection," said Firefighters Union President Bill Gault. "Sooner or later its going to bite them in the butt."
During an afternoon news conference, Mayor Nutter repeated his assertion that the plan does not compromise safety and said the union is simply fighting to retain overtime for its members. Nutter insists that the use of rolling closures at fire stations to cut costs is an accepted practice throughout the country that will not impact the safety of residents. He it was "an insult" to firefighters for the union to suggest otherwise.
"Not one firefighter, not one, has lost a job here. Everyone is working. This is about overtime. That's all its about," Nutter said.
The city expects to save approximately $3.8 million a year in overtime costs with rolling brownouts or closures. But firefighters said they are already cut to the bone following the permanent closures of five fire companies and two ladder companies last year. The firefighters union, Local 22, is planning to send a formal letter to city council asking for an investigation into the closures. A spokesman said the fire department did "no research in deciding which stations to close." The union is planning to post "closed" signs on the affected stations as a form of protest. SOURCE: CBS Philly
Fire Commissioner Lloyd Ayers said in the past, five companies a day were closed to training. But now only two companies per day will go to training.
"This is a game. This is moving pieces around in order to affect protection," said Firefighters Union President Bill Gault. "Sooner or later its going to bite them in the butt."
During an afternoon news conference, Mayor Nutter repeated his assertion that the plan does not compromise safety and said the union is simply fighting to retain overtime for its members. Nutter insists that the use of rolling closures at fire stations to cut costs is an accepted practice throughout the country that will not impact the safety of residents. He it was "an insult" to firefighters for the union to suggest otherwise.
"Not one firefighter, not one, has lost a job here. Everyone is working. This is about overtime. That's all its about," Nutter said.
The city expects to save approximately $3.8 million a year in overtime costs with rolling brownouts or closures. But firefighters said they are already cut to the bone following the permanent closures of five fire companies and two ladder companies last year. The firefighters union, Local 22, is planning to send a formal letter to city council asking for an investigation into the closures. A spokesman said the fire department did "no research in deciding which stations to close." The union is planning to post "closed" signs on the affected stations as a form of protest. SOURCE: CBS Philly
At Kemp Mill Elementary, is aggressive principal to blame or accused teacher?
SILVER SPRING, Md. - Was a popular Montgomery County elementary school teacher fired because he inappropriately touched a child, or because he was leading a group of ten teachers in filing complaints about the principal? Dan Picca, a fifth grade teacher at Kemp Elementary School, is adamant he did nothing wrong in April when a student fell and hurt his shoulder while waiting for a bus. Since the school nurse had left for the day, Picca checked the child for injuries.
"I was checking out his shoulder to make sure his shoulder was not dislocated. And as I was doing that, another teacher walked into the room," Picca says.
That teacher filed a report with principal Floyd Starnes.
"She basically stated that she walked into the room, that there were kids around, that he was standing in front of me, and that I was checking out his shoulder, which is absolutely correct," Picca says.
In the incident report filed Starnes, a different picture emerged. "(The report states) Starnes had [the boy] sitting in my lap and I was 'massaging' his shoulder," Picca says. The boy's mother, Hedy Ross, says her son was questioned by Starnes, and she believes he was coached. Ross bases that on language in the written statement , which she says her son was told to write. One word jumped out at her: "massage." Ross says she has never known her son to use it, and it was spelled correctly, while other words like "sitting" were misspelled. Ross' son told her Starnes told him to write the word.
Ross says she was never told her son had been questioned.
"It's a totally false statement," Ross says. "The fact that that statement was used to terminate a teacher - that there was a hearing that I didn't even know about, where my son was used as evidence - really makes me angry, and I'm still shocked about it."
Picca says he's being targeted by Starnes because 10 teachers at Kemp Mill Elementary filed complaints about the principal with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The complaints range from claims of a hostile work environment to allegations that Starnes sexually harassed teachers, including Picca. Both male and female teachers complained that Starnes would call them "baby," "doll," and "sweetie," language they felt was demeaning and uncomfortable. Picca claims when he first brought the complaints to the principal, Starnes told him not to go through with the complaints because Starnes had "personnel information" that could harm Picca's job status.
Picca does have a record that includes two investigations in the 90s. In February of 2000, he was warned by Superintendent Dr. Jerry Weast that his behavior involving male students was "...inappropriate, unprofessional and highly suspect." Child Protective Services was contacted in those cases, according to Picca. Picca maintains he did nothing wrong. He says if there were any basis to the prior investigations, "[Weast] would not have sent me back into the classroom, which he did, and which is where I was for ten years, incident free." SOURCE: WTOP
"I was checking out his shoulder to make sure his shoulder was not dislocated. And as I was doing that, another teacher walked into the room," Picca says.
That teacher filed a report with principal Floyd Starnes.
"She basically stated that she walked into the room, that there were kids around, that he was standing in front of me, and that I was checking out his shoulder, which is absolutely correct," Picca says.
In the incident report filed Starnes, a different picture emerged. "(The report states) Starnes had [the boy] sitting in my lap and I was 'massaging' his shoulder," Picca says. The boy's mother, Hedy Ross, says her son was questioned by Starnes, and she believes he was coached. Ross bases that on language in the written statement , which she says her son was told to write. One word jumped out at her: "massage." Ross says she has never known her son to use it, and it was spelled correctly, while other words like "sitting" were misspelled. Ross' son told her Starnes told him to write the word.
Ross says she was never told her son had been questioned.
"It's a totally false statement," Ross says. "The fact that that statement was used to terminate a teacher - that there was a hearing that I didn't even know about, where my son was used as evidence - really makes me angry, and I'm still shocked about it."
Picca says he's being targeted by Starnes because 10 teachers at Kemp Mill Elementary filed complaints about the principal with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The complaints range from claims of a hostile work environment to allegations that Starnes sexually harassed teachers, including Picca. Both male and female teachers complained that Starnes would call them "baby," "doll," and "sweetie," language they felt was demeaning and uncomfortable. Picca claims when he first brought the complaints to the principal, Starnes told him not to go through with the complaints because Starnes had "personnel information" that could harm Picca's job status.
Picca does have a record that includes two investigations in the 90s. In February of 2000, he was warned by Superintendent Dr. Jerry Weast that his behavior involving male students was "...inappropriate, unprofessional and highly suspect." Child Protective Services was contacted in those cases, according to Picca. Picca maintains he did nothing wrong. He says if there were any basis to the prior investigations, "[Weast] would not have sent me back into the classroom, which he did, and which is where I was for ten years, incident free." SOURCE: WTOP
Building crashes into car in Silver Spring
I thought that headline was funnier than "Car crashes into building in Silver Spring"
SILVER SPRING, Md. - Montgomery County (web | news) Police say a car has collided with a building in Silver Spring. It happened just before 6 a.m. Monday in the 3100 block of Industrial Parkway. Officials say there were no injuries, but the building was damaged. The cause of the incident is unknown, but police say it was accidental. SOURCE: WJLA
SILVER SPRING, Md. - Montgomery County (web | news) Police say a car has collided with a building in Silver Spring. It happened just before 6 a.m. Monday in the 3100 block of Industrial Parkway. Officials say there were no injuries, but the building was damaged. The cause of the incident is unknown, but police say it was accidental. SOURCE: WJLA
Montgomery Council is grandstanding, not happy with Leggett
Montgomery County Council members are expected to spend the last month before the Sept. 14 primary touting their austerity, a reversal for political leaders in the affluent suburb, used to promising bigger budgets, government services and employee benefits. The new message comes on the heels of a $1 billion budget deficit this year, when council members turned to their first overall spending reduction in four decades, furloughs of county employees and service cuts at libraries and parks to fill the unprecedented gap. But critics, including some who work for the council, say the group is claiming too much credit with voters.
"It's almost surreal how everyone is promoting their spending chops," said one council official, who refused to be identified while speaking openly about the politicians. "Keep in mind, these are the same people who spent like there was no tomorrow. I must admit it's a bit disingenuous for them to act now like they're the poster children for financial restraint."
The council recently approved a six-year spending plan that calls for balancing budgets without one-time funding. And they lashed out at County Executive Ike Leggett over an arrangement that would grant nearly 9,000 government employees extra time off next year.
However, some say it is nothing more than political grandstanding.
"With a billion dollar deficit they had no choice," said District 1 Democratic candidate Ilaya Hopkins. "It is no accident that we are hearing this new message in an election year. We need to look at the whole four-year term, when the opportunities were missed to get a handle on this spending." SOURCE: Washington Examiner
"It's almost surreal how everyone is promoting their spending chops," said one council official, who refused to be identified while speaking openly about the politicians. "Keep in mind, these are the same people who spent like there was no tomorrow. I must admit it's a bit disingenuous for them to act now like they're the poster children for financial restraint."
The council recently approved a six-year spending plan that calls for balancing budgets without one-time funding. And they lashed out at County Executive Ike Leggett over an arrangement that would grant nearly 9,000 government employees extra time off next year.
However, some say it is nothing more than political grandstanding.
"With a billion dollar deficit they had no choice," said District 1 Democratic candidate Ilaya Hopkins. "It is no accident that we are hearing this new message in an election year. We need to look at the whole four-year term, when the opportunities were missed to get a handle on this spending." SOURCE: Washington Examiner
August 2, 2010
Grover Norquist and Pelura speak on behalf of Brian Murphy for governor
Crofton, MD – Yesterday, Jim Pelura, former state chairman of the Maryland Republican Party, and his wife, Marianne, held their fourth annual "Picnic Under a Tent" in Davidsonville, to benefit Republican gubernatorial candidate, Brian Murphy. Approximately 150 gathered for the $75 per person fundraiser to hear Brian Murphy and his Lt. Governor candidate, Mike Ryman, share their vision to balance Maryland’s budget, without raising taxes, and to ensure Maryland’s spending programs minimize waste, fraud, and abuse. Murphy received the Peluras’ endorsement in April, when they announced they were both backing the businessman in the republican primary over GOP contender Robert Ehrlich. “It’s time to bring in some new blood,” said Jim Pelura. “It’s time to stop relying on career politicians.”
Grover Norquist, President of Americans for Tax Reform, addressed the crowd on Murphy’s behalf. Norquist commended Murphy and Ryman for signing ATR’s Taxpayer Protection Pledge, which is a promise to oppose any tax increases. Norquist pointed out Murphy’s opponent, Robert Ehrlich, refused to sign the pledge in prior races, and has not signed the pledge in this race. In addition to signing a no new tax pledge, Murphy is the only Gubernatorial Candidate:
To propose a three-year plan to eliminate Maryland’s punitive corporate income tax; Who is 100% pro-life; Who has committed to making Maryland a “shall issue” state in defense of 2nd Amendment rights; Who supports implementing in Maryland legislation similar to Arizona’s SB 1070 to combat illegal immigration; modeled after 287(g), a program already implemented in Frederick.
Murphy recently announced that his campaign has also received to date the support of: Frank MacKay, Chairman of the Independence Party of America (IPA), the nation’s largest political organization of independent voters Sheriff Chuck Jenkins, one of Maryland’s most respected law enforcement leaders in Frederick County; successful leader in combating illegal immigration and author of 287(g), (http://www.youtube.com/MurphyForMaryland#p/u/2/rcBYW2ktMqE); 2nd Amendment Maryland advocates: Paul Dembowski, President of Maryland Shall Issue, Inc., and Henry Heymering, former-President of Maryland Shall Issue, Inc.
Brian Murphy and Robert Ehrlich are running in the Republican Primary on September 14. Governor Martin O’Malley is running in the Democratic Party Primary on September 14. The winners of the respective parties’ elections will square off against each other in the November 2 General Election. Brian Murphy is a successful Maryland businessman with a BA in Economics from the University of Maryland and an MBA from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School. He is founder of the Plimhimmon Group, whose first investment, the Smith Island Baking Company, has been featured in The Washington Post, the Wharton Magazine, the Baltimore Sun, BusinessWeek and other publications for its principled approach to job creation in Maryland.
For more information on the Brian Murphy for Governor campaign, see www.brianmurphy2010.com. To set up a media interview, please contact Karla Graham at karla@brianmurphy2010.com or (410) 924-4577.
District 14 Meet & Greet for candidates on August 23
Meet and Talk with your Republican State Candidates Night on Monday, August 23, 7:30 PM at the Buffington Re/Max Building, Community Room. 3300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road in Olney.
State Senate Candidate: Eric Cary-www.ericcary.com. State Delegate Candidates: Patricia Fenati-www.patriciafenati.org Henry Kahwaty-www.HenryforMaryland.com. Maria Peña-Faustino-Maria4House@gmail.com
Agenda: 7:30 Informal Meet the Candidates
8:00 Introductions of all Candidates. Dist 14 State Candidates statements- 5min.
8:30 Questions and Listening session with audience
9:15 Adjourn- Informal Meet the Candidates. Come, bring your neighbors and meet.
For more info, contact Larry Lauer, District 14 coordinator at Larry.Lauer@comcast.net or 240-447-2278.
State Senate Candidate: Eric Cary-www.ericcary.com. State Delegate Candidates: Patricia Fenati-www.patriciafenati.org Henry Kahwaty-www.HenryforMaryland.com. Maria Peña-Faustino-Maria4House@gmail.com
Agenda: 7:30 Informal Meet the Candidates
8:00 Introductions of all Candidates. Dist 14 State Candidates statements- 5min.
8:30 Questions and Listening session with audience
9:15 Adjourn- Informal Meet the Candidates. Come, bring your neighbors and meet.
For more info, contact Larry Lauer, District 14 coordinator at Larry.Lauer@comcast.net or 240-447-2278.
Steve Abrams dies; top Republican in 2006
NOTE: Steve Abrams was the top Republican vote-getter in 2006, when he was elected to the GOP Central Committee, before switching parties.
A longtime veteran of the Rockville City Council and the Montgomery County school board died Sunday of a brain tumor that was diagnosed in January. Stephen N. Abrams, 67, served five terms on the Rockville council from 1980 to 1989 and on the school board from 1992 to 1996, 1998 to 2002, and again from 2004 to 2008. He was also a member of the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee and former chairman of the county Republican Party, although he later switched to the Democratic Party.
Abrams was diagnosed with glioblastoma while visiting his daughters early in the year in New York, his friend Alvin Lorman said in a statement released Sunday on Abrams' death. In addition to his Montgomery County affiliations, Abrams served as a senior federal lobbyist with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee from 1995 to 1997, as well as in numerous positions with the federal government. In 1991, President George H. W. Bush appointed Abrams deputy assistant secretary for food and consumer services at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
After he retired from government service, Abrams worked as a registered securities broker and financial planner. He served as president of Eagle Management Partners Inc. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Judy Goldscheider Abrams of Potomac; daughters Elisia Abrams of New York, N.Y., and Jennifer Stier of Brooklyn, N.Y.; son-in-law David Stier, and granddaughter Sidney Stier. Funeral services are Tuesday at noon at Congregation Har Shalom, 11510 Falls Road in Potomac. Burial will be at Judean Memorial Gardens in Olney. SOURCE: Gazette
A longtime veteran of the Rockville City Council and the Montgomery County school board died Sunday of a brain tumor that was diagnosed in January. Stephen N. Abrams, 67, served five terms on the Rockville council from 1980 to 1989 and on the school board from 1992 to 1996, 1998 to 2002, and again from 2004 to 2008. He was also a member of the Montgomery County Republican Central Committee and former chairman of the county Republican Party, although he later switched to the Democratic Party.
Abrams was diagnosed with glioblastoma while visiting his daughters early in the year in New York, his friend Alvin Lorman said in a statement released Sunday on Abrams' death. In addition to his Montgomery County affiliations, Abrams served as a senior federal lobbyist with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee from 1995 to 1997, as well as in numerous positions with the federal government. In 1991, President George H. W. Bush appointed Abrams deputy assistant secretary for food and consumer services at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
After he retired from government service, Abrams worked as a registered securities broker and financial planner. He served as president of Eagle Management Partners Inc. Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Judy Goldscheider Abrams of Potomac; daughters Elisia Abrams of New York, N.Y., and Jennifer Stier of Brooklyn, N.Y.; son-in-law David Stier, and granddaughter Sidney Stier. Funeral services are Tuesday at noon at Congregation Har Shalom, 11510 Falls Road in Potomac. Burial will be at Judean Memorial Gardens in Olney. SOURCE: Gazette
O'Malley camp in Montgomery County pushes diversity leadership council
Dear Friends-
This week will be a very busy one for the O'Malley/Brown Campaign in Montgomery County. On Wednesday the 4th at 1pm, the Maryland Democratic Party will announce the formation of its Diversity Leadership Councils, a new initiative this election year to promote diversity in the state. The Diversity Leadership Council program celebrates diversity as one of Maryland’s greatest strengths in order to cultivate Democratic activism in the many cultural and social communities in the state. The announcement will take place at 1pm in front of the Austin Grill in downtown Silver Spring (919 Ellsworth Drive), and will feature speakers Lt. Governor Brown, Representative Elijah Cummings, and Maryland Democratic Party Chair Susan Turnbull. Please come and show your support of Lt. Governor Brown and the Maryland Democratic Party! In addition to the Diversity Leadership Rally, we also have our regular campaign events:
Monday (today). Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington) When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please bring a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Tuesday (tomorrow). Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington) When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Wednesday. Bethesda Metro Stop. What: Join Lt. Governor Brown as he meets voters at the Bethesda Metro Station. Where: Bethesda Metro Station (7450 Wisconsin Ave, Bethesda). When: 7:00am - 8:00am
Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Thursday. Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Friday. Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Saturday. Lit Drop. What: Distribute campaign literature to "undecided" and "lean" voters. Where: Germantown Panera (19820 Century Blvd, Germantown). When: 10:00am - 1:00pm. Let me know if you can make it to any of these events, and I hope to see you this week!
Adam Cohn
Montgomery County Coordinator. O'Malley Brown Campaign. (443) 473-0760
This week will be a very busy one for the O'Malley/Brown Campaign in Montgomery County. On Wednesday the 4th at 1pm, the Maryland Democratic Party will announce the formation of its Diversity Leadership Councils, a new initiative this election year to promote diversity in the state. The Diversity Leadership Council program celebrates diversity as one of Maryland’s greatest strengths in order to cultivate Democratic activism in the many cultural and social communities in the state. The announcement will take place at 1pm in front of the Austin Grill in downtown Silver Spring (919 Ellsworth Drive), and will feature speakers Lt. Governor Brown, Representative Elijah Cummings, and Maryland Democratic Party Chair Susan Turnbull. Please come and show your support of Lt. Governor Brown and the Maryland Democratic Party! In addition to the Diversity Leadership Rally, we also have our regular campaign events:
Monday (today). Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington) When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please bring a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Tuesday (tomorrow). Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington) When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Wednesday. Bethesda Metro Stop. What: Join Lt. Governor Brown as he meets voters at the Bethesda Metro Station. Where: Bethesda Metro Station (7450 Wisconsin Ave, Bethesda). When: 7:00am - 8:00am
Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Thursday. Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Friday. Phone Bank. What: Voter contact phone bank. Where: MCDCC (3720 Farragut Ave Suite 303, Kensington). When: 5:00pm - 8:30pm. Notes: Please being a cell phone and laptop if you have one.
Saturday. Lit Drop. What: Distribute campaign literature to "undecided" and "lean" voters. Where: Germantown Panera (19820 Century Blvd, Germantown). When: 10:00am - 1:00pm. Let me know if you can make it to any of these events, and I hope to see you this week!
Adam Cohn
Montgomery County Coordinator. O'Malley Brown Campaign. (443) 473-0760
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