A major storm has caused widespread power outages. About 164,000 Montgomery County customers remain without power. The latest update on conditions include:
Water Restrictions: * Mandatory water restrictions remain in effect for all Montgomery County and Prince Georges County residents on public water systems until water supplies are recharged. This includes Rockville residents.
* Residents and businesses are urged to use water only for essential indoor uses so sufficient water will be available for hospitals, emergency services and fire fighting.
* Residents on private wells are unaffected by the mandatory water restrictions.
Water customers should: *Stop all outside water use – no watering lawns, no washing cars, no topping off swimming pools
*Use water only as necessary – i.e., shorter showers and turn off faucets after washing hands
*Limit toilet flushings (do not flush after every use)
*Limit washing machine and dishwasher use (wash full loads only)
Traffic: * About 225 traffic signals remain without power and 90 streets remain blocked by downed wires and trees.
* Police officers are directing traffic at 60 intersections and the County’s Department of Transportation has erected temporary stop signs at some others.
* Many additional intersections without power have no officers or stop signs. It is essential that drivers exercise extreme caution and treat all intersections without power as a four-way stop.
Ride On: * Expect some delays on Ride On due to blocked streets and signal outages. Five routes have detours. Check Ride On’s website at www.rideonbus.com for more information.
Recreation: * The Western County, Germantown Indoor and Outdoor, Upper County, and Olney Swim Centers are open.
* Damascus and Lawton Recreation Centers are now open, in addition to the Upper County Neighborhood, Germantown, East County Neighborhood and Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Centers All other Montgomery County Recreation facilities are closed today.
* All other Recreation sites are closed, including the main administrative office.
* All summer camps, summer fun centers and Recreation summer classes are cancelled for today.
Libraries: * Closed all day: Little Falls, Wheaton, Kensington Park, Aspen Hill, Davis, Potomac, and Silver Spring
* Open: Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Damascus, Germantown, Long Branch, Olney, Poolesville, Praisner, Quince Orchard, Rockville, Wheaton, and White Oak.
* All of the branches will close at 8 p.m. this evening.
Shelters: * Three shelters are open: Richard Montgomery High School, 250 Richard Montgomery Drive, Rockville; Seneca Valley High School, 19401 Crystal Rock Drive, Germantown; and the East County Recreation Center located at 3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring.
* Individuals planning to go to a shelter should bring all medications and personal supplies with them. Pets are not permitted at shelters except for service animals.
* Residents cannot bring pets to the shelter. Residents are urged not to leave their pets alone at home. Instead, call Montgomery County Animal Services at 240-773-5900 to make arrangements for pet care.
Parks: * The following Montgomery Parks facilities are open and Parks classes and programs in these facilities are running on schedule: Cabin John Ice, South Germantown Splash Park and Miniature Golf, and the Tennis and More and Week in the Park summer camps at Wheaton Regional Park.
* Crews are working to restore power to all Parks facilities affected by the outages. To find out if a facility is open, Parks patrons should call the facility in advance to confirm operating hours. Visit www.MontgomeryParks.org for a facility directory and updated information.
Montgomery College: * Montgomery College Rockville campus will be closed today. Takoma Park and Germantown campuses will be open.
Other County Facilities: * Montgomery County Department of Finance Treasury office located at 255 Hungerford Drive is closed.
* Montgomery County’s Permitting Services will be closed to the public.
* The Occupational Medical Service unit is closed and all appointments are cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date.
Report Power Outages and Downed Trees: * To report power outages, call Pepco at 1-877-737-2662, , Allegheny Power at 1-800-255-3443 or Baltimore Gas and Electric at 1-877-778-2222.
* To report “hot” wires or sparking wires, especially those across roadways, call 9-1-1.
* To report downed trees in the public right-of-way, call 3-1-1 from within Montgomery County or if Montgomery County residents are outside the County, call 240-777-0311.
Check www.montgomerycountymd.gov for updated information on Montgomery County facilities, services, and programs.
July 26, 2010
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Report ranks Baltimore strong to weather recession
The Baltimore region’s economy has demonstrated relative strength in weathering the recession when compared to others in the nation’s Top 100 metropolitan regions, according to a June MetroMonitor report from Brookings Institution. Overall, the Baltimore region ranks among 19 regions that were rated as the “second strongest” metropolitan areas to have weathered the Great Recession. (Click here to read the full report.)
The report measured economic outputs – the Gross Metropolitan Products (GMP) – of the Top 100 U.S. metropolitan regions during the recession. It also measured performance for other key economic indicators including employment levels, unemployment rates, housing prices, and the number of foreclosed properties that fail to sell at auction. Among Mid-Atlantic regions, only one – the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia region – was among 21 regions rated as the overall “strongest” to weather the recession. Three other metros from Mid-Atlantic States – Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Virginia Beach – also ranked with the Baltimore region in the “second strongest” group.
That’s the good news. Less uplifting are the report’s findings that, while most U.S. regions registered gains in economic output from pre-recession peaks to the end of 2009, these economic rebounds were not matched by employment rebounds. For example, the Baltimore region registered a 4.8 percent increase in GMP from its previous peak in the 2nd quarter of 2008. However, employment in the Baltimore region remains at just 95.3 percent of its pre-recession level, and has yet to make a turn upward. Greater Baltimore was among 32 regions that have recovered their pre-recession levels of economic output. But neither Baltimore nor any of the top 100 regions has fully recovered their previous employment levels. The lower employment statistics have been accompanied by tenaciously elevated unemployment rates, significantly reduced housing prices, and elevated levels of foreclosed properties that mortgage-holders have been unable to sell.
The Baltimore region ranks 4th among all regions for economic recovery since 2008, but it ranks 30th for employment growth during the same period. More disconcerting is that the Baltimore region’s 0.3 percent employment drop in the 1st quarter of 2010 ranks 60th among the 100 regions measured in the Brookings report. Here’s how the Baltimore region performed on other key indicators measured by Brookings:
• Unemployment rate. The region’s 8.0 percent unemployment rate ranks 21st best and is less than the 10.2 percent U.S. average. Its 4.4 percentage-point unemployment rate increase over the last three years ranks 29th. The region’s one-year unemployment rate increase of 0.8 percentage points ranks 36th.
• Housing prices. The Baltimore region’s 20.4 percent decrease in housing prices during the last three years ranks 69th. The national average for that period was a 17.4 percent decrease, while the average decrease for all measured metro areas was 21.4 percent.
• Real estate-owned properties. In March 2010, the Baltimore region had 3.97 per 1,000 foreclosed properties that failed to sell at auction. This ranks our region 68th, and was slightly more than the national average, but less than the average for all regions measured by Brookings.
Donald C. Fry is president and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee. He is a regular contributor to Center Maryland. SOURCE: Center Maryland
The report measured economic outputs – the Gross Metropolitan Products (GMP) – of the Top 100 U.S. metropolitan regions during the recession. It also measured performance for other key economic indicators including employment levels, unemployment rates, housing prices, and the number of foreclosed properties that fail to sell at auction. Among Mid-Atlantic regions, only one – the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia region – was among 21 regions rated as the overall “strongest” to weather the recession. Three other metros from Mid-Atlantic States – Harrisburg, Pittsburgh and Virginia Beach – also ranked with the Baltimore region in the “second strongest” group.
That’s the good news. Less uplifting are the report’s findings that, while most U.S. regions registered gains in economic output from pre-recession peaks to the end of 2009, these economic rebounds were not matched by employment rebounds. For example, the Baltimore region registered a 4.8 percent increase in GMP from its previous peak in the 2nd quarter of 2008. However, employment in the Baltimore region remains at just 95.3 percent of its pre-recession level, and has yet to make a turn upward. Greater Baltimore was among 32 regions that have recovered their pre-recession levels of economic output. But neither Baltimore nor any of the top 100 regions has fully recovered their previous employment levels. The lower employment statistics have been accompanied by tenaciously elevated unemployment rates, significantly reduced housing prices, and elevated levels of foreclosed properties that mortgage-holders have been unable to sell.
The Baltimore region ranks 4th among all regions for economic recovery since 2008, but it ranks 30th for employment growth during the same period. More disconcerting is that the Baltimore region’s 0.3 percent employment drop in the 1st quarter of 2010 ranks 60th among the 100 regions measured in the Brookings report. Here’s how the Baltimore region performed on other key indicators measured by Brookings:
• Unemployment rate. The region’s 8.0 percent unemployment rate ranks 21st best and is less than the 10.2 percent U.S. average. Its 4.4 percentage-point unemployment rate increase over the last three years ranks 29th. The region’s one-year unemployment rate increase of 0.8 percentage points ranks 36th.
• Housing prices. The Baltimore region’s 20.4 percent decrease in housing prices during the last three years ranks 69th. The national average for that period was a 17.4 percent decrease, while the average decrease for all measured metro areas was 21.4 percent.
• Real estate-owned properties. In March 2010, the Baltimore region had 3.97 per 1,000 foreclosed properties that failed to sell at auction. This ranks our region 68th, and was slightly more than the national average, but less than the average for all regions measured by Brookings.
Donald C. Fry is president and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee. He is a regular contributor to Center Maryland. SOURCE: Center Maryland
Man hit and killed near MARC station
Montgomery County police say they have found a man's body on train tracks near the Kensington MARC station. Police say officers and emergency responders found the man at about 1:30 p.m. Sunday between the eastbound rails. They say evidence indicates the man was struck by a CSX train. Detectives and CSX officials continue to investigate the death. SOURCE: Hometown Annapolis
More storm damage discovered in Montgomery County; Michelle Humanick dies
Complaints against Pepco are increasing. Hundreds of traffic lights still out.
The woman who died in her vehicle on Rhode Island Avenue, near Odessa Road in College Park, was described as being in her 40s. Mark Brady, a spokesman for the Prince George’;s fire and EMS department, said the woman’s mother, who was also in the vehicle, was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. .. Rescue workers had to cut the top of the vehicle off to pull out the injured person. (Washington Post)
Later, I came to know more about the woman from Dist 1 councilman Patrick Wojahn.
“The woman’s name was Michelle Humanick. Some of you may know Michelle – she was active in the Neighborhood Watch in College Park Estates and Yarrow, and was married to Clay Gump, who has long been active in the City. This is such a tragedy – in addition to her husband, Michelle leaves behind two young girls. Michelle’s mother was also in the car and was taken to the hospital with serious injuries”
True, this is such a loss for our entire community. Michelle’s husband Clay Gump runs popular RethinkCollegePark website. The storm also caused a massive power blackout in the area, cutting off power from roughly 53,000 people in our county. The storm has also made quite a bit of damage several Seven Springs apartments located in Cherry Hill. Michelle Humanick dies in College Park. SOURCE: Kabir Cares
The woman who died in her vehicle on Rhode Island Avenue, near Odessa Road in College Park, was described as being in her 40s. Mark Brady, a spokesman for the Prince George’;s fire and EMS department, said the woman’s mother, who was also in the vehicle, was taken to a hospital with serious injuries. .. Rescue workers had to cut the top of the vehicle off to pull out the injured person. (Washington Post)
Later, I came to know more about the woman from Dist 1 councilman Patrick Wojahn.
“The woman’s name was Michelle Humanick. Some of you may know Michelle – she was active in the Neighborhood Watch in College Park Estates and Yarrow, and was married to Clay Gump, who has long been active in the City. This is such a tragedy – in addition to her husband, Michelle leaves behind two young girls. Michelle’s mother was also in the car and was taken to the hospital with serious injuries”
True, this is such a loss for our entire community. Michelle’s husband Clay Gump runs popular RethinkCollegePark website. The storm also caused a massive power blackout in the area, cutting off power from roughly 53,000 people in our county. The storm has also made quite a bit of damage several Seven Springs apartments located in Cherry Hill. Michelle Humanick dies in College Park. SOURCE: Kabir Cares
Newest Chick-fil-A Restaurant Opening July 29 in Silver Spring
WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 29, 2010) – The Chick-fil-A® restaurant chain and its renegade Cows have two events to celebrate on July 29 in metro Washington, D.C. with its newest in-line Chick-fil-A restaurant opening at
6:30 a.m. at 12289 Tech Rd. in Silver Spring, Md. and a ground “mooving” ceremony being held at 10:30 a.m. in Arlington, Va. at 2200 Crystal Dr. for the chain’s third in-line location in the market.
The chain will celebrate the new Silver Spring July 29 opening by awarding a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A Meals (52 certificates) to each of the first 100 adults in line, age 18 and older with identification at the new location. Started more than six years ago as an idea for an Arizona restaurant opening, Chick-fil-A’s First 100 celebration has become the signature event of each grand opening around the country. The chain’s loyal customers often arrive 24 hours in advance of the opening -- no matter the location or weather conditions.
The line at the new Chick-fil-A restaurant at Tech Road in Silver Spring will officially open at 6 a.m., Wednesday, July 28, with the free meal cards being awarded Thursday, July 29, sometime between 6 a.m. and 6:10 a.m. The restaurant will open for business immediately thereafter. If there are more than 100 people by 6 a.m. on Wednesday, July 28, all 100 spots will be determined by a raffle. www.chick-fil-a.com for complete rules.
The new in-line Chick-fil-A in Silver Spring is one of 78 new locations the chain plans to open this year and includes the new Crystal City streetscape in-line restaurant in Arlington. The company opened its first in-line concept in August 2004 in Silver Spring, with the Crystal City location bringing the total to 11 for the chain. The Crystal City location is projected to open in November and will be operated by Chick-fil-A franchise Operator/Owner Natalie Yang, who is moving to the area from Georgia. The openings of the two locations in metro Washington, D.C. will bring upwards of 130 new jobs to the area.
Despite the nation’s economic challenges in 2009, Chick-fil-A continued to expand, increasing the number of locations initially projected for the year. The chain opened 80 new restaurants and reached $3 billion in sales for the first time.
“Thanks to our family of Operators and restaurant team members who provide freshly prepared food and going-the-extra-mile customer service, Chick-fil-A is fortunate to be able to continue to grow,” said Dan T. Cathy, President and COO, Chick-fil-A, Inc. “We are very fortunate to be blessed with not only committed Operators and team members but also with a tremendous following of loyal customers. They are the reason we do what we do every day.”
The First 100 event at each restaurant opening is one way Chick-fil-A both thanks and celebrates its customers, many of whom travel hundreds of miles to participate. Extreme weather conditions or distant locations do not dampen the enthusiasm of those who bring tents, electronics, and other gear to pass the time until the restaurant opens. Chick-fil-A has awarded more than $11.2 million in free food at restaurant grand openings, with nearly another $1.8 million to be given away in 2010. Once Cathy saw customers willing to camp out in Chick-fil-A parking lots, he decided to join in the fun with his own tent and sleeping bag. December 2009 marked Cathy’s 100th overnight campout with customers at Chick-fil-A grand openings.
About Chick-fil-A, Inc.
Truett Cathy developed the original Chick-fil-A boneless breast of chicken sandwich in his 24-hour Dwarf House® diner near Atlanta in the early 1960s, and he opened his first Chick-fil-A® restaurant in Atlanta’s Greenbriar Mall in 1967. Since then, the chain has grown to include nearly 1,500 locations in 38 states and Washington, D.C. In December 2009, Chick-fil-A, Inc. reached $3 billion in sales for the first time – marking its 42nd consecutive year of sales growth. The chain plans to add 78 locations this year, including 66 stand-alone restaurants, two mall/retail outlets, and 10 licensed outlets in non-traditional locations such as college campuses. This year, the chain also will spend millions in reinvestment dollars on existing business markets to remodel and re-design 171 stand-alone and shopping mall outlets across the country. More information about Chick-fil-A is available on the chain’s websites, located at www.chick-fil-a.com or www.truettcathy.com
The chain will celebrate the new Silver Spring July 29 opening by awarding a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A Meals (52 certificates) to each of the first 100 adults in line, age 18 and older with identification at the new location. Started more than six years ago as an idea for an Arizona restaurant opening, Chick-fil-A’s First 100 celebration has become the signature event of each grand opening around the country. The chain’s loyal customers often arrive 24 hours in advance of the opening -- no matter the location or weather conditions.
The line at the new Chick-fil-A restaurant at Tech Road in Silver Spring will officially open at 6 a.m., Wednesday, July 28, with the free meal cards being awarded Thursday, July 29, sometime between 6 a.m. and 6:10 a.m. The restaurant will open for business immediately thereafter. If there are more than 100 people by 6 a.m. on Wednesday, July 28, all 100 spots will be determined by a raffle. www.chick-fil-a.com for complete rules.
The new in-line Chick-fil-A in Silver Spring is one of 78 new locations the chain plans to open this year and includes the new Crystal City streetscape in-line restaurant in Arlington. The company opened its first in-line concept in August 2004 in Silver Spring, with the Crystal City location bringing the total to 11 for the chain. The Crystal City location is projected to open in November and will be operated by Chick-fil-A franchise Operator/Owner Natalie Yang, who is moving to the area from Georgia. The openings of the two locations in metro Washington, D.C. will bring upwards of 130 new jobs to the area.
Despite the nation’s economic challenges in 2009, Chick-fil-A continued to expand, increasing the number of locations initially projected for the year. The chain opened 80 new restaurants and reached $3 billion in sales for the first time.
“Thanks to our family of Operators and restaurant team members who provide freshly prepared food and going-the-extra-mile customer service, Chick-fil-A is fortunate to be able to continue to grow,” said Dan T. Cathy, President and COO, Chick-fil-A, Inc. “We are very fortunate to be blessed with not only committed Operators and team members but also with a tremendous following of loyal customers. They are the reason we do what we do every day.”
The First 100 event at each restaurant opening is one way Chick-fil-A both thanks and celebrates its customers, many of whom travel hundreds of miles to participate. Extreme weather conditions or distant locations do not dampen the enthusiasm of those who bring tents, electronics, and other gear to pass the time until the restaurant opens. Chick-fil-A has awarded more than $11.2 million in free food at restaurant grand openings, with nearly another $1.8 million to be given away in 2010. Once Cathy saw customers willing to camp out in Chick-fil-A parking lots, he decided to join in the fun with his own tent and sleeping bag. December 2009 marked Cathy’s 100th overnight campout with customers at Chick-fil-A grand openings.
About Chick-fil-A, Inc.
Truett Cathy developed the original Chick-fil-A boneless breast of chicken sandwich in his 24-hour Dwarf House® diner near Atlanta in the early 1960s, and he opened his first Chick-fil-A® restaurant in Atlanta’s Greenbriar Mall in 1967. Since then, the chain has grown to include nearly 1,500 locations in 38 states and Washington, D.C. In December 2009, Chick-fil-A, Inc. reached $3 billion in sales for the first time – marking its 42nd consecutive year of sales growth. The chain plans to add 78 locations this year, including 66 stand-alone restaurants, two mall/retail outlets, and 10 licensed outlets in non-traditional locations such as college campuses. This year, the chain also will spend millions in reinvestment dollars on existing business markets to remodel and re-design 171 stand-alone and shopping mall outlets across the country. More information about Chick-fil-A is available on the chain’s websites, located at www.chick-fil-a.com
Cristine Thron for Congress kickoff tonight versus Chris van Hollen
Christine and Company will hold a reception at La Tasca Spanish Tapas Bar & Restaurant on the square following the Formal Announcement of her Candidacy. Please join us to celebrate the official kick off of her Campaign. Those who Donate $50 to participate will receive two drink tickets and will enjoy shared appetizers. Beverages include: sangria, beer, house wine and all non-alcoholic drinks. Appetizers Include: spinach croquettes, Pan Catalana (Bread), Fried Eggplant, Fried Shrimp and Grilled Chicken Skewers.
Christine's Formal Announcement: Monday July 26, 2010. 6:00pm-7:00 pm. Rockville Town Square Plaza. Off of Beall Ave. Rockville, MD 20850.
Celebrate with the Candidate!. July 26, 2010. 7:00pm-9:00 pm. 141 Gibbs Street, Unit A. Rockville, MD 20850. Register now
Candidate Eli El for delegate in Dist. 20 has 'Terrapins For Eli' support
Candidate Eli El for delegate in Dist. 20 has 'Terrapins For Eli' support. You have to admit, this is pretty funny! 
Montgomery County news blurbs
Hot Weather Conditions Unsafe for Animals - Whenever the National Weather Service issues an Excessive Heat Warning for Montgomery County and surrounding areas, the Director of the Montgomery County Police Animal Services Division may authorize enforcement of Executive Regulation 5-01, Anti-Cruelty Conditions for Dogs, Section 11-C. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Police/News/NA_details.asp?NaID=5550
MCPL - Friday, July 23: Access to the library catalog, user accounts, and online resources has been disrupted by a power outage. We are working to restore service.
Percentage of Region's Commuters Driving Alone Declines, While Share for Telework, Transit Grows - More people in the metropolitan Washington region are taking transit to work or teleworking than at any point in the past ten years, according to findings presented today by Commuter Connections at the July meeting of the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB). For more information go to: http://www.mwcog.org/news/press/detail.asp?NEWS_ID=464
Montgomery County Board of Education to Meet on July 26 - The Montgomery County Board of Education will meet on Monday, July 26, 2010. The meeting will be held in the Board of Education Meeting Room in the Carver Educational Services Center, 850 Hungerford Drive in Rockville, MD. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/press/index.aspx?page=showrelease&id=2797
Dance with the Stars at The Rooftop - Spend an evening Dancing with the Stars at The Rooftop from 7-9:30 pm, Sunday, July 25, when the night will feature Big Band hits from the '30s and '40s. Night and Day Band will perform Big Band Ballroom and Swing music. Admission is free. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillerooftop.com/calendar-events/july-25-dancing-with-the-stars
FREE Small Business Counseling Sessions! ˆ On Thursday, July 29th, the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center (B-CC RSC) with the SCORE „Counselors of America‚s Small Business‰ will be offering free one-on-one small business counseling sessions. Call 240-777-8200 to schedule your free one-hour counseling session! The B-CC RSC is conveniently located one block from the Bethesda Metro Station at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Maryland 20814. Visit us online at: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/bcc
Lunchtime Concert Series - Willow Garden Theatre lunchtime concert series, from August 4 - August 25. At the corner of Wisconsin Ave. & Willow Ln., Wed., 12-2pm, concerts are free for more information call 301-352-5387.
SAVE THE DATE! Car Free Day ˆ 9/22/10 - Join us for part of a worldwide movement and celebrate sustainable transportation on Car Free Day, Wednesday September 22, 2010. For more information go to: http://www.carfreemetrodc.com/
REMINDER - 21st Anniversary of the 2010 Annual Farm Tour and Harvest Sale in Montgomery County, Maryland - Montgomery County will celebrate its agricultural heritage, promote local farms, and indulge in seasonally fresh food during the 21st Annual Farm Tour and Harvest Sale. Fourteen farms will participate this year on Saturday July 24, 2010 and then will reopen for a second day on Sunday July 25, 2010. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6690
Rockville Good Neighbor Nominations Due Monday, Aug. 30 - The City of Rockville will host the ninth annual Good Neighbor awards in which residents nominate their neighbors for improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillemd.gov/news/2010/07-july/07-22-10b.html
MCPL - Friday, July 23: Access to the library catalog, user accounts, and online resources has been disrupted by a power outage. We are working to restore service.
Percentage of Region's Commuters Driving Alone Declines, While Share for Telework, Transit Grows - More people in the metropolitan Washington region are taking transit to work or teleworking than at any point in the past ten years, according to findings presented today by Commuter Connections at the July meeting of the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB). For more information go to: http://www.mwcog.org/news/press/detail.asp?NEWS_ID=464
Montgomery County Board of Education to Meet on July 26 - The Montgomery County Board of Education will meet on Monday, July 26, 2010. The meeting will be held in the Board of Education Meeting Room in the Carver Educational Services Center, 850 Hungerford Drive in Rockville, MD. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/press/index.aspx?page=showrelease&id=2797
Dance with the Stars at The Rooftop - Spend an evening Dancing with the Stars at The Rooftop from 7-9:30 pm, Sunday, July 25, when the night will feature Big Band hits from the '30s and '40s. Night and Day Band will perform Big Band Ballroom and Swing music. Admission is free. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillerooftop.com/calendar-events/july-25-dancing-with-the-stars
FREE Small Business Counseling Sessions! ˆ On Thursday, July 29th, the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center (B-CC RSC) with the SCORE „Counselors of America‚s Small Business‰ will be offering free one-on-one small business counseling sessions. Call 240-777-8200 to schedule your free one-hour counseling session! The B-CC RSC is conveniently located one block from the Bethesda Metro Station at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Maryland 20814. Visit us online at: www.montgomerycountymd.gov/bcc
Lunchtime Concert Series - Willow Garden Theatre lunchtime concert series, from August 4 - August 25. At the corner of Wisconsin Ave. & Willow Ln., Wed., 12-2pm, concerts are free for more information call 301-352-5387.
SAVE THE DATE! Car Free Day ˆ 9/22/10 - Join us for part of a worldwide movement and celebrate sustainable transportation on Car Free Day, Wednesday September 22, 2010. For more information go to: http://www.carfreemetrodc.com/
REMINDER - 21st Anniversary of the 2010 Annual Farm Tour and Harvest Sale in Montgomery County, Maryland - Montgomery County will celebrate its agricultural heritage, promote local farms, and indulge in seasonally fresh food during the 21st Annual Farm Tour and Harvest Sale. Fourteen farms will participate this year on Saturday July 24, 2010 and then will reopen for a second day on Sunday July 25, 2010. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6690
Rockville Good Neighbor Nominations Due Monday, Aug. 30 - The City of Rockville will host the ninth annual Good Neighbor awards in which residents nominate their neighbors for improving the quality of life in their neighborhoods. For more information go to: http://www.rockvillemd.gov/news/2010/07-july/07-22-10b.html
Some storm damage & electric problems in Montgomery County
Utility crews worked through the night and into Monday morning to fix widespread power outages after one of the most violent and destructive thunderstorms in years ripped across the region, knocking down trees and power lines, starting fires, damaging houses and causing at least two deaths. A 6-year-old boy, Eric Lawson of Sterling, was killed when struck by a falling section of a tree in Loudoun County about 3:15 p.m. Sunday. And a woman was killed when a tree fell on a minivan in College Park about 3:30 p.m.
Power was cut off to a WSSC plant that supplies 70 percent of the water for Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Authorities asked residents to curb consumption and refrain from any outdoor use. A spokeswoman for Pepco, the region's hardest-hit utility, said the company was borrowing crews from other utilities working in 12-hour shifts to free lines and poles pinned beneath toppled trees. It was too early to predict a return to normal service, spokeswoman Mary-Beth Hutchinson said Monday morning, but the company is expecting a "multi-day restoration."
"The volume of work is staggering," Hutchinson said.
Montgomery County closed most of its recreation centers, and the parks and recreation department canceled all summer camps, classes and other activities for Monday. Montgomery College's Rockville campus was also closed. As of 9:00 a.m., roughly 175,000 customers were without power in Montgomery County, about 53,000 were without power in Prince George's County, about 22,000 were without power in the District and about 9,600 were without power in Northern Virginia.
Traffic lights remained out at dozens of intersections around the region. Officials were telling motorists to treat dark intersections as four-way stops. SOURCE: Washington Post
Power was cut off to a WSSC plant that supplies 70 percent of the water for Montgomery and Prince George's counties. Authorities asked residents to curb consumption and refrain from any outdoor use. A spokeswoman for Pepco, the region's hardest-hit utility, said the company was borrowing crews from other utilities working in 12-hour shifts to free lines and poles pinned beneath toppled trees. It was too early to predict a return to normal service, spokeswoman Mary-Beth Hutchinson said Monday morning, but the company is expecting a "multi-day restoration."
"The volume of work is staggering," Hutchinson said.
Montgomery County closed most of its recreation centers, and the parks and recreation department canceled all summer camps, classes and other activities for Monday. Montgomery College's Rockville campus was also closed. As of 9:00 a.m., roughly 175,000 customers were without power in Montgomery County, about 53,000 were without power in Prince George's County, about 22,000 were without power in the District and about 9,600 were without power in Northern Virginia.
Traffic lights remained out at dozens of intersections around the region. Officials were telling motorists to treat dark intersections as four-way stops. SOURCE: Washington Post
July 25, 2010
Montgomery farm's open for visitors this weekend
Welmoed Sisson delicately wrapped strands of fragrant lavender between ribbon under the shade of a white tent at Star Gazing Farm on Saturday morning. The bound bushels, called "lavender wands" were on their way to the Boyds animal sanctuary's gift shop, she said. It was all preparation for Montgomery County's 2010 Farm Tour and Harvest Sale. Fourteen farms were open to visitors on Saturday, and 10 farms are participating Sunday. The tour aims to celebrate the county's agricultural heritage. There are 561 farms and 350 horticultural enterprises in the county.
Spring and Peter Swineheart of Boyds stopped by Star Gazing on Saturday.
"I think it's great to bring awareness to the Agricultural Reserve and what there is to offer," Spring Swinehart said. The couple had just finished a tour of the sanctuary's housing area, where they scooted around billy goat horns and got up close to a llama.
Germantown brothers Christian, 5, and Steven, 7, hovered near Oscar the barn cat. Christian said "seeing kitties" was his favorite part of the tour. Jody and Steve Hursh brought their grandchildren to Star Gazing early Saturday afternoon. They had stopped at Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary in Poolesville, also part of the tour, where Steve was left with a "souvenir" of dried pig mud on his pant leg.
Jody Hursh said Star Gazing would be the group's last stop.
"We're going to be wilted after this," she said, partially hidden from the sun's glare by a tree. SOURCE: Gazette
July 24, 2010
DC to fire hundreds of teachers
WASHINGTON - The D.C. Public Schools are firing 241 teachers and warning more than 700 other employees that they could be fired in the next year if their performance doesn't improve. The firings announced Friday total 302 school system employees, including the 241 teachers. The firings come as a result of the first year of a new teacher evaluation system. The evaluation is based largely on five observations and measures of students' academic progress. Based on those evaluations, 729 additional employees are being put on notice that they will be fired after the upcoming school year if their performance doesn't improve. Washington Teachers' Union President George Parker has said grievances would "definitely" be filed for each fired teacher, based on what many teachers perceived as a botched process. SOURCE: FOX DC
July 23, 2010
Gansler unopposed in Maryland, plus 9 senators
ANNAPOLIS, MD. — Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler is officially running unopposed for re-election.
Although July 6 was the deadline for candidates to file their bids for office, Wednesday was the last day that central committees for political parties could nominate someone to run in a race in which no one had filed.
Nine out of Maryland's 47 state senators also are running unopposed. The unopposed Republicans are Sens. George Edwards of Garrett County and Barry Glassman of Harford County. The unopposed Democrats are Sens. Robert Zirkin of Baltimore County, Catherine Pugh and Lisa Gladden of Baltimore city, Jamie Raskin of Montgomery County, and Jim Rosapepe, Paul Pinsky and Ulysses Currie of Prince George's County. SOURCE: San Fran Exam
July 22, 2010
Colleague of Azin Naimi speaks
Tony Kurtz, friend and colleague of Azin Naimi, speaks to the media about the disappearance and death of his fiend. (Dan Morse/The Washington Post)
Council worried about $7 million; Leggett counters 48 hours off costs $0
A majority of Montgomery County Council members appear opposed to what they believe is $7 million in new spending on government employees. However, the cost of the paid leave included in newly negotiated employee contracts — and whether the council has authority over the provisions — is still undetermined. The council is awaiting an opinion from the County Attorney's Office, which is expected Thursday.
The council's own attorneys believe the council should vote on the provisions because they will cost $7 million, a report from the Office of Legislative Oversight states. The council has final fiscal authority. But County Executive Isiah Leggett's (D) office believes the unpaid leave — between two and three work days — will cost nothing. While awaiting a decision on whether they will vote on the contracts, council members opted Tuesday to introduce the renegotiated contracts for members of the Montgomery County Career Fire Fighters Association, IAFF, Local 1664; Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 35; and The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1994/Municipal and County Government Employees Organization.
Under the contracts, about 8,184 employees will share 236,632 hours of paid leave, with firefighters receiving 48 hours and other employees getting 26 hours. A council committee will take up the contracts, which also include $135,000 in tuition assistance money for police and the removal of a contract provision requiring random drug testing of firefighters.
Council Vice President Valerie Ervin (D-Dist. 5) of Silver Spring and council members Nancy Navarro (D-Dist. 4) of Silver Spring and Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At large) of North Bethesda, who sit on the council's Management and Fiscal Policy Committee, say they will vote against the contracts when the committee takes them up Monday. The committee was scheduled to address the issue last week, but it was postponed after Leggett's staff said the council did not have the authority to approve the contracts.
Councilman Philip M. Andrews (D-Dist. 3) of Gaithersburg also plans to vote against the contracts, which would affect worker productivity and result in additional costs, he said. The county's Office of Legislative Oversight found that the time away from work associated with the paid leave would equal about 117 work years, meaning the amount of work 117 full-time employees complete in one year.
County data show that 1,022 employees received 60 hours of paid time off in fiscal 2010, costing the county $2.8 million in salary and benefits. Council President Nancy M. Floreen (D-At large) of Garrett Park also expressed concerns over the spending and said Tuesday that the county cannot take on additional expenses.
"I have to hand it to the unions; they're in the ‘never say never' category in terms of pushing the limits," Floreen said last week of the contracts. "I'm sorry we have to revisit what the council has already done. I don't think that we're going to be able to assume additional cost."
Floreen said Tuesday that she was waiting to hear more from Leggett about the contracts. Employees gave up pay raises and were forced to take furloughs in fiscal 2011, which began July 1, meaning that their contracts had to be renegotiated to reflect the changes. During the renegotiations, Leggett agreed to grant employees two to three days of paid leave. Officials say they are unsure what will happen if the council votes against the contracts, especially if a difference of opinion remains regarding their authority over the agreements.
It could mean that employees and Leggett return to the bargaining table for a third time. SOURCE: Gazette
The council's own attorneys believe the council should vote on the provisions because they will cost $7 million, a report from the Office of Legislative Oversight states. The council has final fiscal authority. But County Executive Isiah Leggett's (D) office believes the unpaid leave — between two and three work days — will cost nothing. While awaiting a decision on whether they will vote on the contracts, council members opted Tuesday to introduce the renegotiated contracts for members of the Montgomery County Career Fire Fighters Association, IAFF, Local 1664; Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 35; and The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1994/Municipal and County Government Employees Organization.
Under the contracts, about 8,184 employees will share 236,632 hours of paid leave, with firefighters receiving 48 hours and other employees getting 26 hours. A council committee will take up the contracts, which also include $135,000 in tuition assistance money for police and the removal of a contract provision requiring random drug testing of firefighters.
Council Vice President Valerie Ervin (D-Dist. 5) of Silver Spring and council members Nancy Navarro (D-Dist. 4) of Silver Spring and Duchy Trachtenberg (D-At large) of North Bethesda, who sit on the council's Management and Fiscal Policy Committee, say they will vote against the contracts when the committee takes them up Monday. The committee was scheduled to address the issue last week, but it was postponed after Leggett's staff said the council did not have the authority to approve the contracts.
Councilman Philip M. Andrews (D-Dist. 3) of Gaithersburg also plans to vote against the contracts, which would affect worker productivity and result in additional costs, he said. The county's Office of Legislative Oversight found that the time away from work associated with the paid leave would equal about 117 work years, meaning the amount of work 117 full-time employees complete in one year.
County data show that 1,022 employees received 60 hours of paid time off in fiscal 2010, costing the county $2.8 million in salary and benefits. Council President Nancy M. Floreen (D-At large) of Garrett Park also expressed concerns over the spending and said Tuesday that the county cannot take on additional expenses.
"I have to hand it to the unions; they're in the ‘never say never' category in terms of pushing the limits," Floreen said last week of the contracts. "I'm sorry we have to revisit what the council has already done. I don't think that we're going to be able to assume additional cost."
Floreen said Tuesday that she was waiting to hear more from Leggett about the contracts. Employees gave up pay raises and were forced to take furloughs in fiscal 2011, which began July 1, meaning that their contracts had to be renegotiated to reflect the changes. During the renegotiations, Leggett agreed to grant employees two to three days of paid leave. Officials say they are unsure what will happen if the council votes against the contracts, especially if a difference of opinion remains regarding their authority over the agreements.
It could mean that employees and Leggett return to the bargaining table for a third time. SOURCE: Gazette
Council advances the Purple Line
It's too much to copy and past, but Montgomery County council advances its support for THe Purple Line. Read a ton more here, though I included a background.
On April 20, 2010 the Montgomery County Planning Board transmitted to the County Executive and the County Council the Planning Board Draft for the Purple Line Functional Plan, a comprehensive amendment to the 1990 Georgetown Branch Master Plan Amendment.
On June 25, 2010 the Executive transmitted to the Council comments concerning the Planning Board Draft with a fiscal analysis.
On June 29, 2010 the Council held a public hearing regarding the Planning Board Draft. It was referred to the Transportation and Environment Committee for review and recommendation.
On July 15, 2010 the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee held a worksession to review the issues raised in connection with the Planning Board Draft. The Committee forwarded it to the Council with several revisions.
On July 20, 2010 the Council reviewed the Planning Board Draft and the recommendations of the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee.
On April 20, 2010 the Montgomery County Planning Board transmitted to the County Executive and the County Council the Planning Board Draft for the Purple Line Functional Plan, a comprehensive amendment to the 1990 Georgetown Branch Master Plan Amendment.
On June 25, 2010 the Executive transmitted to the Council comments concerning the Planning Board Draft with a fiscal analysis.
On June 29, 2010 the Council held a public hearing regarding the Planning Board Draft. It was referred to the Transportation and Environment Committee for review and recommendation.
On July 15, 2010 the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee held a worksession to review the issues raised in connection with the Planning Board Draft. The Committee forwarded it to the Council with several revisions.
On July 20, 2010 the Council reviewed the Planning Board Draft and the recommendations of the Transportation, Infrastructure, Energy and Environment Committee.
Politicians appear at Crisfield annual clambake
"A must-attend event," Gov. Martin O'Malley (D) called it. "A political right of passage."
"A must-stop in an election year," said former governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) .
With those similar assessments, coming a few minutes apart, Maryland's two major candidates for governor arrived at the 34th Annual J. Millard Tawes Crab and Clam Bake in Crisfield, where both would spend the next couple of hours working the sprawling crowd outside the town's marina, their running mates in tow.
In many respects, Wednesday's sweat-drenched affair was a metaphor for this year's campaign: two very well-known candidates, occupying the same familiar territory but never actually engaging one another. The two hopefuls were so familiar, in fact, that many of the 5,000 or so in attendance seemed unmoved by their presence as they enjoyed the $40 all-you-can-eat-and-drink assortment of steamed crabs, fried fish, clams, corn on the cob, watermelon and beer. Perhaps the only surprise of the afternoon was the extent to which the O'Malley team out-organized the Ehrlich camp. As festival-goers arrived at the event site in the Eastern Shore community, they were greeted by far more neon-green O'Malley signs, of all sizes and assortments, than those advertising Ehrlich's comeback campaign. When the current governor arrived around 2 p.m., he was a greeted by a larger, more boisterous, more orchestrated group of supporters and volunteers than was the former governor -- who hung back in a parking lot until the Democratic incumbent moved on before making his entrance.
It's not clear that the contrast necessarily worked against Ehrlich. A large part of the Republican's appeal is his ability to relate to voters on their level. Minutes after a throng of reporters peppered O'Malley with questions about policy and campaign strategy, Ehrlich told the same group that he was there hoping "to just have fun today." Later asked by a reporter about the importance of the clambake to the campaign, Ehrlich responded with typical bluntness, saying: "It's not that important to the overall race."
The two running mates -- Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown (D) and former secretary of state Mary D. Kane (R) -- both appeared to put a little more thought into their outfits than their principals. O'Malley and Ehrlich both donned polo shirts that they no doubt had received gratis for being governor. Ehrlich wore shorts.
As always, the event drew dozens of other politicians seeking statewide and local offices. Brian Murphy, a long-shot Republican candidate for governor, was on hand, with a merry band of supporters, as were some of the largely unknown GOP candidates with dreams of toppling Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) this year. Comptroller Peter Franchot (D) stood out for his congeniality. As Ehrlich worked some of the tents sponsored by corporations and candidates, Franchot went out of his way to say hello and shake hands. In their long, overlapping political careers, the two have often had unkind things to say about one another. But at Tawes, it was all smiles. Ehrlich even said he looked forward to working again with Franchot.
At that point, a spokesman for the comptroller was quick to point out to a lurking reporter that Franchot had greeted the current governor as well. SOURCE: Washington Post
"A must-stop in an election year," said former governor Robert L. Ehrlich Jr. (R) .
With those similar assessments, coming a few minutes apart, Maryland's two major candidates for governor arrived at the 34th Annual J. Millard Tawes Crab and Clam Bake in Crisfield, where both would spend the next couple of hours working the sprawling crowd outside the town's marina, their running mates in tow.
In many respects, Wednesday's sweat-drenched affair was a metaphor for this year's campaign: two very well-known candidates, occupying the same familiar territory but never actually engaging one another. The two hopefuls were so familiar, in fact, that many of the 5,000 or so in attendance seemed unmoved by their presence as they enjoyed the $40 all-you-can-eat-and-drink assortment of steamed crabs, fried fish, clams, corn on the cob, watermelon and beer. Perhaps the only surprise of the afternoon was the extent to which the O'Malley team out-organized the Ehrlich camp. As festival-goers arrived at the event site in the Eastern Shore community, they were greeted by far more neon-green O'Malley signs, of all sizes and assortments, than those advertising Ehrlich's comeback campaign. When the current governor arrived around 2 p.m., he was a greeted by a larger, more boisterous, more orchestrated group of supporters and volunteers than was the former governor -- who hung back in a parking lot until the Democratic incumbent moved on before making his entrance.
It's not clear that the contrast necessarily worked against Ehrlich. A large part of the Republican's appeal is his ability to relate to voters on their level. Minutes after a throng of reporters peppered O'Malley with questions about policy and campaign strategy, Ehrlich told the same group that he was there hoping "to just have fun today." Later asked by a reporter about the importance of the clambake to the campaign, Ehrlich responded with typical bluntness, saying: "It's not that important to the overall race."
The two running mates -- Lt. Gov. Anthony G. Brown (D) and former secretary of state Mary D. Kane (R) -- both appeared to put a little more thought into their outfits than their principals. O'Malley and Ehrlich both donned polo shirts that they no doubt had received gratis for being governor. Ehrlich wore shorts.
As always, the event drew dozens of other politicians seeking statewide and local offices. Brian Murphy, a long-shot Republican candidate for governor, was on hand, with a merry band of supporters, as were some of the largely unknown GOP candidates with dreams of toppling Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) this year. Comptroller Peter Franchot (D) stood out for his congeniality. As Ehrlich worked some of the tents sponsored by corporations and candidates, Franchot went out of his way to say hello and shake hands. In their long, overlapping political careers, the two have often had unkind things to say about one another. But at Tawes, it was all smiles. Ehrlich even said he looked forward to working again with Franchot.
At that point, a spokesman for the comptroller was quick to point out to a lurking reporter that Franchot had greeted the current governor as well. SOURCE: Washington Post
July 21, 2010
Md. Prosecutors Drop Charges In Shooting Death
Montgomery County prosecutors have dropped murder charges against a Silver Spring man, saying the killing was legally justified because his victim was pointing a gun at another man's head. Assistant State's Attorney Peter Feeney told the judge Tuesday that the murder case was over, but Larry Lamont, 27, faces new gun charges. Under Maryland law, defendants charged with murder can offer a "defense of others" argument, similar to self-defense. Law enforcement officials say Marcus Duffin, 27, had fired six rounds and was standing within several feet of the third man. Lamont cooperated with authorities and after they heard from Lamont and the third man involved and learned of Duffin's background, investigators dropped the charges.
Missing woman in Rockville found dead
ROCKVILLE, Md. - Montgomery County Police say a missing Rockville woman has been found dead in Washington, and a suspect in the homicide is in custody. A relative had reported 45-year-old Azin Naimi missing early Monday. That afternoon, D.C. police found Naimi's body in the northwest part of the city. Although the circumstances of Naimi's death remain under investigation, the D.C. medical examiner ruled the manner of her death to be homicide. Montgomery County police say a suspect, who knew Naimi, is in custody and being questioned.
30 Hurt After Turbulence Rocks D.C.-to-L.A. Flight
A United Airlines jetliner hit severe turbulence while flying over Kansas, injuring 30 and jolting one woman out of her seat so forcefully that she left a crack when she hit the side of the cabin, authorities and a witness said. The Tuesday flight was the airline's third this year during which passengers were hurt because of turbulence. The flight originated at Dulles International Airport and was headed to Los Angeles. It was diverted to Denver International Airport, where it landed safely around 7:45 p.m. and was met by medical crews, Denver Fire Department spokesman Eric Tade said.
Twenty-six passengers and four crew members were injured, Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor in Los Angeles said. He said one person was critically hurt, but he released no further details. Officials said many of the injured were taken to hospitals with only moderate injuries. At least 14 were released by Wednesday morning and at least two others were hospitalized overnight. The status of the others wasn't immediately available. Nine had neck and back injuries. Hospitals declined to release the nature of the other injuries.
"There are mostly walking injuries," Tade told The Denver Post. He said the injuries included bruises, whiplash, strains and sprains. Some passengers were placed on another flight to Los Angeles that arrived there just before midnight. Flight 967 was flying over Kansas at an altitude of about 34,000 feet when it hit the heavy turbulence, said FAA spokesman Mike
Fergus. It was carrying 255 passengers and 10 crew members. The turbulence was ``just a huge up and down,'' said passenger Kaoma Bechaz, a 19-year-old Australian in the United States visiting her boyfriend. Bechaz told the Post that the woman sitting next to her hit her head on the side of the cabin, leaving a crack above the window, and a girl across the aisle flew into the air and hit the ceiling. Bechaz said she wasn't thrown around because her seat belt was tight.
The crew decided land the Boeing 777 in Denver to tend to the injured, United Airlines spokeswoman Megan McCarthy said. A 12-year-old was taken to Children's Hospital in Aurora, but a spokeswoman there didn't know the nature of the child's injury. The seven patients taken to Denver Health -- all women -- were being evaluated but likely would be treated and released Tuesday night, spokeswoman Dee Martinez said. Three people went to Swedish Hospital in Englewood with moderate injuries, spokeswoman Julie Lonborg said.
Two people were treated and released from the University of Colorado Hospital and two others were being evaluated, spokeswoman Erika Matich said. Tim Smith of Boulder was on United Flight 937, which also flew into Denver from Washington on Tuesday and landed after the diverted plane. He said his flight was delayed because of thunderstorms but didn't have any problems. SOURCE: NBC Washington
Twenty-six passengers and four crew members were injured, Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor in Los Angeles said. He said one person was critically hurt, but he released no further details. Officials said many of the injured were taken to hospitals with only moderate injuries. At least 14 were released by Wednesday morning and at least two others were hospitalized overnight. The status of the others wasn't immediately available. Nine had neck and back injuries. Hospitals declined to release the nature of the other injuries.
"There are mostly walking injuries," Tade told The Denver Post. He said the injuries included bruises, whiplash, strains and sprains. Some passengers were placed on another flight to Los Angeles that arrived there just before midnight. Flight 967 was flying over Kansas at an altitude of about 34,000 feet when it hit the heavy turbulence, said FAA spokesman Mike
Fergus. It was carrying 255 passengers and 10 crew members. The turbulence was ``just a huge up and down,'' said passenger Kaoma Bechaz, a 19-year-old Australian in the United States visiting her boyfriend. Bechaz told the Post that the woman sitting next to her hit her head on the side of the cabin, leaving a crack above the window, and a girl across the aisle flew into the air and hit the ceiling. Bechaz said she wasn't thrown around because her seat belt was tight.
The crew decided land the Boeing 777 in Denver to tend to the injured, United Airlines spokeswoman Megan McCarthy said. A 12-year-old was taken to Children's Hospital in Aurora, but a spokeswoman there didn't know the nature of the child's injury. The seven patients taken to Denver Health -- all women -- were being evaluated but likely would be treated and released Tuesday night, spokeswoman Dee Martinez said. Three people went to Swedish Hospital in Englewood with moderate injuries, spokeswoman Julie Lonborg said.
Two people were treated and released from the University of Colorado Hospital and two others were being evaluated, spokeswoman Erika Matich said. Tim Smith of Boulder was on United Flight 937, which also flew into Denver from Washington on Tuesday and landed after the diverted plane. He said his flight was delayed because of thunderstorms but didn't have any problems. SOURCE: NBC Washington
CASA de Maryland slips into politics
CASA de Maryland, the immigration advocacy group that collects millions of dollars in taxpayer money, has started a political organization to back pro-Hispanic candidates that critics contend blurs the line between nonprofit work and political activism.
Dubbed CASA in Action, the group sent out surveys to politicians in Montgomery and Prince George's counties and will endorse primary candidates who promote Hispanic causes. Among the questions: Whether candidates support giving driver's licenses to illegal immigrants, whether English should be the official state language, and whether office seekers would push for more funding for Hispanic nonprofits.
"It allows immigrants and low-income people in Maryland to come together and express their political priorities," said spokeswoman Eliza Leighton. But some say the group's foray into politics should preclude it from receiving taxpayer money.
"I think the era of CASA being a service entity is over," said Brad Botwin, director of Help Save Maryland, an anti-illegal-immigration group. "I think we need to stop giving them any funds. Other groups can do the same work without promoting lawlessness."
CASA will receive nearly $2.1 million this fiscal year from local governments, including $1.3 million from Montgomery County, and another $32,000 in federal money, according to Kim Propeack, the group's director of community organizing and political action. CASA in Action has raised $45,000 thus far from members paying $9 annual dues, she added. Botwin argues the group, for years, has raked in millions of taxpayer dollars despite ignoring -- and often embracing -- illegal immigration. CASA runs five day laborer sites in Maryland, offering services regardless of immigration status.
CASA officials responded that the new wing of the organization is funded entirely by member donations. CASA's top brass, including Executive Director Gustavo Torres, are running the political operation and have not hired new employees for the political team. Propeack says human-service organizations have made similar plunges into politics. She referenced the Tenants and Workers United, the largest member-based organization for low-income workers in Northern Virginia, as the local model for such a move. Like CASA, the group canvases against what it considers overly harsh raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and supports day laborers throughout the region.
Nonprofit legal analysts tell The Washington Examiner that CASA is not in violation of federal law if they don't use government money for political purposes and note the time spent between the two wings of the organization. However, some officials involved in recent immigration debates say the coziness between the group's two branches could make it difficult to track sources of political funding.
"They need to be transparent about how they raise their money," said Prince William County Supervisor Marty Nohe, R-Coles. "It'd be hard to know for sure they aren't raising money from illegitimate sources." CASA was previously barred from intervening in political campaigns, according to Internal Revenue Service code. But by obtaining 501(c)(4) status, CASA in Action is allowed to participate in political campaigns and elections. SOURCE: Washington Examiner
"It allows immigrants and low-income people in Maryland to come together and express their political priorities," said spokeswoman Eliza Leighton. But some say the group's foray into politics should preclude it from receiving taxpayer money.
"I think the era of CASA being a service entity is over," said Brad Botwin, director of Help Save Maryland, an anti-illegal-immigration group. "I think we need to stop giving them any funds. Other groups can do the same work without promoting lawlessness."
CASA will receive nearly $2.1 million this fiscal year from local governments, including $1.3 million from Montgomery County, and another $32,000 in federal money, according to Kim Propeack, the group's director of community organizing and political action. CASA in Action has raised $45,000 thus far from members paying $9 annual dues, she added. Botwin argues the group, for years, has raked in millions of taxpayer dollars despite ignoring -- and often embracing -- illegal immigration. CASA runs five day laborer sites in Maryland, offering services regardless of immigration status.
CASA officials responded that the new wing of the organization is funded entirely by member donations. CASA's top brass, including Executive Director Gustavo Torres, are running the political operation and have not hired new employees for the political team. Propeack says human-service organizations have made similar plunges into politics. She referenced the Tenants and Workers United, the largest member-based organization for low-income workers in Northern Virginia, as the local model for such a move. Like CASA, the group canvases against what it considers overly harsh raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and supports day laborers throughout the region.
Nonprofit legal analysts tell The Washington Examiner that CASA is not in violation of federal law if they don't use government money for political purposes and note the time spent between the two wings of the organization. However, some officials involved in recent immigration debates say the coziness between the group's two branches could make it difficult to track sources of political funding.
"They need to be transparent about how they raise their money," said Prince William County Supervisor Marty Nohe, R-Coles. "It'd be hard to know for sure they aren't raising money from illegitimate sources." CASA was previously barred from intervening in political campaigns, according to Internal Revenue Service code. But by obtaining 501(c)(4) status, CASA in Action is allowed to participate in political campaigns and elections. SOURCE: Washington Examiner
Disability pension granted to Montgomery police sergeant accused of theft
A Montgomery County police sergeant facing allegations that she stole more than $10,000 was granted a disability retirement pension this month, adding to questions about a program designed to compensate officers who suffer disabling injuries on the job. Jacqueline Davey, a 17-year department veteran, was a patrol supervisor when she was suspended in December because of a theft investigation, county officials said. A medical panel later ruled she could no longer perform all of the duties of an officer, officials said.
"These are the kind of cases that could potentially undermine the credibility of the whole system," said County Executive Isiah Leggett (D). "Obviously the panel made the decision. They awarded it."
Davey, 39, had not reached the normal retirement age. The disability package will pay her about 67 percent of her salary, tax free, county officials said. She faces trial in September on charges that she billed the county for hours she did not work. She could not be reached for comment. Her attorney, Paul Stein, did not return phone calls seeking comment. Montgomery officials, citing confidentiality laws, would not say what Davey's injuries are.
Davey's retirement pension comes nearly two years after Leggett announced he was seeking to reform the program, which for years has awarded disability benefits at a higher rate than neighboring counties. SOURCE: Washington Post
"These are the kind of cases that could potentially undermine the credibility of the whole system," said County Executive Isiah Leggett (D). "Obviously the panel made the decision. They awarded it."
Davey, 39, had not reached the normal retirement age. The disability package will pay her about 67 percent of her salary, tax free, county officials said. She faces trial in September on charges that she billed the county for hours she did not work. She could not be reached for comment. Her attorney, Paul Stein, did not return phone calls seeking comment. Montgomery officials, citing confidentiality laws, would not say what Davey's injuries are.
Davey's retirement pension comes nearly two years after Leggett announced he was seeking to reform the program, which for years has awarded disability benefits at a higher rate than neighboring counties. SOURCE: Washington Post
F. Scott Fitzgerald event in Rockville on October 16
The F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference is a full-day writing event in Rockville, where Fitzgerald summered and wrote some of his most famous works. The Conference, held every October, features small group discussions, workshops and seminars for writers of all genres. Pulling talent from the Washington DC area and beyond, the Conference offers writers one-on-one access to some of the premiere names in publishing today.
Every year the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference bestows an award for Outstanding Achievement to a writer of distinction. The award winning author participates fully in the Conference, meeting with attendees to offer advice and share experiences. The 15th Annual Conference is proud to honor distinguished author, Alice McDermott as the 2010 Award recipient.
This event is open to the public, accessible by Metro and bus. Online registration: www.fscottfitzgerald.wordpress.com or 301-309-9461. Saturday, October 16, 2010. Montgomery College, Rockville. 8:30-5:30
Every year the F. Scott Fitzgerald Literary Conference bestows an award for Outstanding Achievement to a writer of distinction. The award winning author participates fully in the Conference, meeting with attendees to offer advice and share experiences. The 15th Annual Conference is proud to honor distinguished author, Alice McDermott as the 2010 Award recipient.
This event is open to the public, accessible by Metro and bus. Online registration: www.fscottfitzgerald.wordpress.com or 301-309-9461. Saturday, October 16, 2010. Montgomery College, Rockville. 8:30-5:30
July 20, 2010
Helicopter cops in Montgomery County search for marijuana plants
Thought you were clever setting up your pot-growing operation in a Maryland public park? Wrong. Cops are on your tail and ready to bust you just like they take down murderers and other horrible human beings. We didn't believe it until we saw this NBC Washington report that convinces us pot growers are destroying the country, one pot plant at a time. They are up in our parks! Growing plants!
But it all seriousness, keep your pot plots on your own land, please. Apparently these growing operations often involve booby traps with fish hooks and explosives. Think of the children. We can already see little Jimmy skipping into the woods to grab his baseball only to be blown up in a cloud of marijuana leaves. So what are the pot-cops looking for? Straight lines and fencing marks the spot. Growers often use snow fencing and branches for camouflage. When police find the sites, they are usually equipped with systems to tip off the growers on their discovery.
“A lot of these grow sites are booby trapped because they want to tell if they’ve been discovered. They also want to give themselves warning and they want to keep other people away from them,” Smith said. "So this could be potentially dangerous to park patrons and their pets.”
Police said the fields are usually planted in groups of threes -- one for the planters to keep for their personal use, another that they want police to find and a third for street sale. What happens when they find the plants? These hard-working cops run stakeouts for days until the public planters are dumb enough to show up. SOURCE: Washington City Paper
But it all seriousness, keep your pot plots on your own land, please. Apparently these growing operations often involve booby traps with fish hooks and explosives. Think of the children. We can already see little Jimmy skipping into the woods to grab his baseball only to be blown up in a cloud of marijuana leaves. So what are the pot-cops looking for? Straight lines and fencing marks the spot. Growers often use snow fencing and branches for camouflage. When police find the sites, they are usually equipped with systems to tip off the growers on their discovery.
“A lot of these grow sites are booby trapped because they want to tell if they’ve been discovered. They also want to give themselves warning and they want to keep other people away from them,” Smith said. "So this could be potentially dangerous to park patrons and their pets.”
Police said the fields are usually planted in groups of threes -- one for the planters to keep for their personal use, another that they want police to find and a third for street sale. What happens when they find the plants? These hard-working cops run stakeouts for days until the public planters are dumb enough to show up. SOURCE: Washington City Paper
AFrame Digital, Inc. and LifeMatters Bring Non-Intrusive Technology for Senior Care to the Washington, D.C Region
Reston, VA, and Bethesda, MD (July 20, 2010) -- AFrame Digital, Inc. and LifeMatters announced today a partnership agreement for the AFrame Digital personal health monitor to be sold through LifeMatters to its clients, both individual consumers and residents served in independent living communities. LifeMatters’ strong market presence and excellent reputation for home senior care in the Washington, D.C. area, coupled with AFrame’s new, non-intrusive technology, make them ideal partners.
The AFrame Digital Personal Health Monitor is a non-intrusive wrist monitor, similar to a sports watch that represents the next generation in senior health care technology. The personal health monitor records a user’s activity, impacts and critical health data including weight, blood pressure, pulse and oxygenation levels. Changes in any one of these bodily functions can signal the need for immediate care. Additionally, concerned family members can be sent alerts and updates.
“We are excited to offer this leading-edge technology to our clients,” says Craig Goodman, President of LifeMatters’ Virginia Division. “The personal health monitor is a proactive and personalized approach to dignified health care in a space where time is critical. The non-intrusive nature of the equipment, ease of use, and discreet design are services that we care about as a company providing senior care.”
One of the greatest fears for seniors who live alone is the risk of falling down and not receiving help. The AFrame system removes that worry. If a senior falls, the system sends out an immediate signal to any loved one in the system. There is no need for a senior to press a button or pull an emergency cord that he or she may not have the ability to reach. “We know from working with clients that panic buttons are ineffective,” Goodman says. “Seniors feel self-conscious about asking for help and often underestimate their injuries. We also know that if the fall is serious, they may be unable to call for help.”
“LifeMatters will place the monitor with the seniors under the company’s care, and AFrame Digital will support them with its turnkey monitoring solution that will manage the data and deliver alerts,” says Dr. Amy Papadopoulos, AFrame Digital’s Senior Research Scientist. “Our home-installed telehealth system will provide LifeMatters with the ability to non-intrusively collect vital signs and have superior telehealth situational awareness between visits by the company’s staff. Seniors will experience improved safety and quality of life, allowing them to remain in their homes longer.”
The AFrame system also provides trending information and alerts to allow health care providers to properly treat seniors based on long-term data rather than one-time readings. The ability to alert on changes in a user’s health eliminates the need to sift through data and reports. This allows medical personnel to determine the root causes of those changes faster. LifeMatters now will offer this improved level of customer care to its clients in the metro Washington, D.C. market. “This system can improve the independent lives of our clients and their families,” Goodman says. “We see the system as a way to also differentiate our service from other health care providers. We look forward to a long-term relationship with AFrame Digital.”
AFrame Digital Inc., www.aframedigital.com, a Virginia small business, was founded in 2005 to research, design and manufacture non-intrusive, wireless sensor-based monitoring and situational awareness solutions for long-term care and occupational safety. AFrame has received support from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Institutes of Health, and is working closely with two large military treatment facilities, Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC), to develop models of injury and disease recovery for the bioinformatics analysis software portion of the system. The company's MobileCare MonitorTM system received FDA clearance in 2009 for in-patient, outpatient and home care settings.
LifeMatters, www.lifemattersusa.com, is a privately owned and operated home health care company that is based in Bethesda and has additional offices in Falls Church and Washington, D.C. The company offers a comprehensive range of personal, skilled nursing and Alzheimer’s care services tailored to each client’s individual needs. LifeMatters’ innovative, licensed and dedicated professionals are committed to providing the highest quality care to support comfort and independence.
The AFrame Digital Personal Health Monitor is a non-intrusive wrist monitor, similar to a sports watch that represents the next generation in senior health care technology. The personal health monitor records a user’s activity, impacts and critical health data including weight, blood pressure, pulse and oxygenation levels. Changes in any one of these bodily functions can signal the need for immediate care. Additionally, concerned family members can be sent alerts and updates.
“We are excited to offer this leading-edge technology to our clients,” says Craig Goodman, President of LifeMatters’ Virginia Division. “The personal health monitor is a proactive and personalized approach to dignified health care in a space where time is critical. The non-intrusive nature of the equipment, ease of use, and discreet design are services that we care about as a company providing senior care.”
One of the greatest fears for seniors who live alone is the risk of falling down and not receiving help. The AFrame system removes that worry. If a senior falls, the system sends out an immediate signal to any loved one in the system. There is no need for a senior to press a button or pull an emergency cord that he or she may not have the ability to reach. “We know from working with clients that panic buttons are ineffective,” Goodman says. “Seniors feel self-conscious about asking for help and often underestimate their injuries. We also know that if the fall is serious, they may be unable to call for help.”
“LifeMatters will place the monitor with the seniors under the company’s care, and AFrame Digital will support them with its turnkey monitoring solution that will manage the data and deliver alerts,” says Dr. Amy Papadopoulos, AFrame Digital’s Senior Research Scientist. “Our home-installed telehealth system will provide LifeMatters with the ability to non-intrusively collect vital signs and have superior telehealth situational awareness between visits by the company’s staff. Seniors will experience improved safety and quality of life, allowing them to remain in their homes longer.”
The AFrame system also provides trending information and alerts to allow health care providers to properly treat seniors based on long-term data rather than one-time readings. The ability to alert on changes in a user’s health eliminates the need to sift through data and reports. This allows medical personnel to determine the root causes of those changes faster. LifeMatters now will offer this improved level of customer care to its clients in the metro Washington, D.C. market. “This system can improve the independent lives of our clients and their families,” Goodman says. “We see the system as a way to also differentiate our service from other health care providers. We look forward to a long-term relationship with AFrame Digital.”
AFrame Digital Inc., www.aframedigital.com, a Virginia small business, was founded in 2005 to research, design and manufacture non-intrusive, wireless sensor-based monitoring and situational awareness solutions for long-term care and occupational safety. AFrame has received support from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Institutes of Health, and is working closely with two large military treatment facilities, Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC), to develop models of injury and disease recovery for the bioinformatics analysis software portion of the system. The company's MobileCare MonitorTM system received FDA clearance in 2009 for in-patient, outpatient and home care settings.
LifeMatters, www.lifemattersusa.com, is a privately owned and operated home health care company that is based in Bethesda and has additional offices in Falls Church and Washington, D.C. The company offers a comprehensive range of personal, skilled nursing and Alzheimer’s care services tailored to each client’s individual needs. LifeMatters’ innovative, licensed and dedicated professionals are committed to providing the highest quality care to support comfort and independence.
EDITORIAL: What should really inspire good budget policy
Metro's July 8 Local Digest ["Montgomery now off bond-watch list"] said that Montgomery County was taken off the Moody's bond-rating agency's watch list for a possible debt downgrade after County Executive Isiah Leggett and the County Council made budget cuts and strengthened policies on budget reserves.
These steps were long overdue, but Mr. Leggett and the council acted only because they feared losing the county's AAA rating, which would have raised the cost of borrowing, not because they were inclined to make common-sense budget cuts or policy changes and not because they feared the wrath of voters.
Voters must demand even more substantial changes and reductions to the county's bloated programs, employee benefits and spending habits. That will be a challenge, however, since the field of candidates is so tilted toward tax-and-spend Democrats that Republicans seeking office will be smothered by the sheer force of progressive persuasion and dominance.
John K. Lambert, Silver Spring
SOURCE: Washington Post
These steps were long overdue, but Mr. Leggett and the council acted only because they feared losing the county's AAA rating, which would have raised the cost of borrowing, not because they were inclined to make common-sense budget cuts or policy changes and not because they feared the wrath of voters.
Voters must demand even more substantial changes and reductions to the county's bloated programs, employee benefits and spending habits. That will be a challenge, however, since the field of candidates is so tilted toward tax-and-spend Democrats that Republicans seeking office will be smothered by the sheer force of progressive persuasion and dominance.
John K. Lambert, Silver Spring
SOURCE: Washington Post
2 Georgia Men Charged With Drug Offenses in Maryland
FREDERICK, Md. - Frederick police have charged two Georgia men with numerous drug offenses after they fled a traffic stop. Twenty-three-year-old Torey Howell and 26-year-old Gary Howell, both of Columbus, Ga., were arrested early Monday. Police said Gary Howell fled a vehicle driven by Torey Howell when an officer attempted to pull it over. After a short pursuit, both men were arrested. Officers say about 10 pounds of suspected marijuana and more than 380 grams of suspected powder cocaine were found in the vehicle. Police say more suspected drugs were found in a home that Gary Howell fled to. SOURCE: FOX DC
Maryland debate for U.S. Senate candidates
United States Senate Debate tonight, presented by the Montgomery County Chapter of Americans for Prosperity and the Montgomery County Young Republicans.
Location: Earle Wood Middle School, 14615 Bauer Drive, Rockville 20853 (Event in the Cafeteria)
When: From 7:30 - 9:30 PM - Doors open at 7pm
Featuring: Candidates for the Office of United States Senator - Maryland
Confirmed Attendees: Barry Steve Asbury (R), Joseph Alexander (R), Robert Henry Brookman (I), Neil Cohen (R), Stephens Dempsey (R), Christopher Garner (D), Gregory L. Kump (R), Daniel McAndrew (R), Natasha Pettigrew (G), Jim Rutledge (R), Sanquetta Taylor (D), Lih Young (D)
Moderated by: Brian Karem, Managing Editor of the Montgomery Sentinel. THIS EVENT IS FREE & OPEN TO EVERYONE!
Location: Earle Wood Middle School, 14615 Bauer Drive, Rockville 20853 (Event in the Cafeteria)
When: From 7:30 - 9:30 PM - Doors open at 7pm
Featuring: Candidates for the Office of United States Senator - Maryland
Confirmed Attendees: Barry Steve Asbury (R), Joseph Alexander (R), Robert Henry Brookman (I), Neil Cohen (R), Stephens Dempsey (R), Christopher Garner (D), Gregory L. Kump (R), Daniel McAndrew (R), Natasha Pettigrew (G), Jim Rutledge (R), Sanquetta Taylor (D), Lih Young (D)
Moderated by: Brian Karem, Managing Editor of the Montgomery Sentinel. THIS EVENT IS FREE & OPEN TO EVERYONE!
Tony Puca Runs for District 39 House of Delegate seat
“When a candidate asks for your vote, ask them what they have done to earn it, and then what they will do with it when elected.” Tony has a record of success working for the people of this county and state that is almost unmatched, and will continue this work in Annapolis now when it is needed more than ever. It is for this reason that Tony is running for this seat.
His record of accomplishment beginning with his defeat of he Banking Deregulation bill in the 1982 Annapolis session has saved the people of this state billions of dollars and extending to his fund raising for needed county causes and his work with the disabled when viewed by any voter or observer shows significant accomplishment. When Tony turned 62 he gave thought to retirement to Florida or to his summer home in Ocean View, DE or traveling and writing and definitely spending more time with his children he realized what gave him the most pleasure was helping others and he decided there was nothing better than seeing if he could accomplish more being in elected office than he did without being in elected office and decided the only way he would know would be by being in office.
Tony has lost some hard fought and close elections in his life but this is the first time he has ever run for an open seat and not against an entrenched incumbent. When addressing the issues he will say openly that he, like just about every candidate running for office, will say he is for strong education, better roads, more mass transportation, protecting the environment and he will vote for them when the leadership places these bills on the floor for the majority vote they will achieve.
More importantly he will tell you about the four issues he will work on and these are banking reform of all kinds, reform of the insurance industry and revenue growth and fair and proportionate revenue distribution. The American tax payer helped bail out the banking industry with stimulus and zero percent discount rates for them to borrow money and the consumer was rewarded with credit card rate increases hat averaged from 5-10% and a record number of foreclosures though we gave banks money to do loan modifications. The banks were also given greater tax loopholes that allowed them not only to make record profits but not pay taxes on them. Tony promises that his first and main priority in Annapolis will be going after the banking industry and imposing limits on credit card interest rates that tie them to 6% over the discount rate and most importantly my intend to have our state issue a moratorium on all foreclosures and call for meaningful mediation by a state run agency. Tony will say to everyone who says we have federal banks and not state banks that there are ways to get all of the above done and point to his previous success in this field.
We will enclosed a copy of my first flyer to allow you to see all that I have done, will do and what others have said about these accomplishments. We will also include both a personal and political history for your reference. Finally in order to win this race Tony will have to do two mailing and a lit drop at a cost of $15,000 to $20,000 ad that money will be available.
That you and if you would like to speak to Tony himself please feel free to call him at 301-990-6654 or 240-277-0300. You can view his web site at: www.tonypucafordelegate.com
Member of 18th Street gang pleads guilty to murder
A Montgomery County gang member pleaded guilty to murder Monday as prosecutors moved to wrap up a case they called the most disturbing gang-related killing they have seen in the county. Ten defendants have pleaded guilty in the Jan. 18, 2009, death of Dennys Guzman-Saenz, 15, who was abducted from a Langley Park bus stop, dragged into a car, stabbed more than 60 times and dumped into an icy creek in Gaithersburg. The assailants, all members of the 18th Street gang, kidnapped Guzman-Saenz because they thought he belonged to a rival gang, police and prosecutors said.
"That was the sole reason. It mirrors your worst fears about gang violence," Montgomery State's Attorney John McCarthy said Monday.
The attackers stabbed Guzman-Saenz while he was in the car, prosecutors said in court. At the creek, more people came out of a second car, and the assault continued. As many as nine people took turns stabbing him with at least two knives, one with a 12-inch blade. Guzman-Saenz, who was 5-9 and weighed 130 pounds, suffered wounds that extended through his torso and punctured the other side.
On Monday, Ysaud Flores, 31, admitted to driving one of the cars used in the killing. Immediately after the stabbing, another of the suspects went to a grocery store to buy a celebratory beer, police said in charging documents. Detectives were able to link Guzman-Saenz's DNA to samples taken from a knife, a knife sheath and the ceiling of Flores's Honda Accord, according to prosecutors. Of the 11 suspects arrested -- eight men and three women -- six have pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, one pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder, two pleaded guilty to participating in gang activity resulting in murder and one pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact, according to court records. The 11th defendant, Daniel A. Zavala, is scheduled to plead guilty to first-degree murder Thursday.
$40 Dog Tax Spurs National Headlines, Punchlines
When I testified in support of the men and women of the Montgomery County Police Department on January 15, 2009, I didn't realize how accurately I was predicting the future. As you recall, and have been reminded by the cheap shot article in yesterday's Post, the county executive and council were (and still are) attempting to deny retirement benefits for disabled police officers.
They ultimately failed, but in their ongoing quest to shift blame from the council's fiscal incompetence to the police department, they're going to keep bringing back this phony "scandal" again and again. That 10 degree evening, I pondered the future of the council's scapegoating. Now that the council had targeted senior citizens in their budget cuts, and tried to take benefits away from disabled cops, I said, "I shudder to think who will be next... Girl Scouts and puppies?"
Well, it's happened. Introducing the Dog Tax. In order to take your dog to any county dog park, you must now pay a mandatory tax of $40, plus $5 for each additional dog you own. This was quietly announced by the county, as usual.
But this quiet insult to your intelligence - and your pocketbook - has now been picked up by the national media, including USA Today. People all over the country are now laughing (once again) at the fiscal incompetence of our county council, and the over-the-top concept of... a dog tax. Maybe it's the excessive wagging of tails. Or the high cost of each sound wave emitted by a bark. Or the fiscal toll of a dog catching a frisbee in mid-air.
I don't know what the justification is. We'll have to await the explanation of the proven financial wizards on the council and the council staff. After all, that's why they make the big bucks... ...so they can use us as ATMs to pay off their politicial cronies in the budget. But wait! Does a tax on puppies mean that... ...Girl Scouts are next? Hide your Thin Mints!! SOURCE: Robert Dyer
They ultimately failed, but in their ongoing quest to shift blame from the council's fiscal incompetence to the police department, they're going to keep bringing back this phony "scandal" again and again. That 10 degree evening, I pondered the future of the council's scapegoating. Now that the council had targeted senior citizens in their budget cuts, and tried to take benefits away from disabled cops, I said, "I shudder to think who will be next... Girl Scouts and puppies?"
Well, it's happened. Introducing the Dog Tax. In order to take your dog to any county dog park, you must now pay a mandatory tax of $40, plus $5 for each additional dog you own. This was quietly announced by the county, as usual.
But this quiet insult to your intelligence - and your pocketbook - has now been picked up by the national media, including USA Today. People all over the country are now laughing (once again) at the fiscal incompetence of our county council, and the over-the-top concept of... a dog tax. Maybe it's the excessive wagging of tails. Or the high cost of each sound wave emitted by a bark. Or the fiscal toll of a dog catching a frisbee in mid-air.
I don't know what the justification is. We'll have to await the explanation of the proven financial wizards on the council and the council staff. After all, that's why they make the big bucks... ...so they can use us as ATMs to pay off their politicial cronies in the budget. But wait! Does a tax on puppies mean that... ...Girl Scouts are next? Hide your Thin Mints!! SOURCE: Robert Dyer
July 19, 2010
Wheaton woman with broken hands accuses Montgomery County police
A 65 year old Wheaton woman is raising strong allegations against the Montgomery County police for excessive force, police brutality and unlawful entry. Her hand is bandaged and in a cast. The seamstress says Montgomery County Police roughed her up in her own home.
"This guy grabbed my arm and was doing like this. Twisting it like this. I said stop you'll break my arm," said 65 year old Piera Tundo as she recounts the night she says an officer police broke her hand.
"I never done anything wrong all the years I came from Italy. I never get in trouble to nobody. They come in and treat like a criminal," said Tundo.
"She's fragile. She's never hurt a fly. She never got a ticket. Why are you guys attacking her. It was nerve wracking and it was very scary. Police brutality. Plain and simple," said her son Salvador Rivas.
Rivas says it all started as officers went to their home to serve him with a bench warrant after he failed to show up for court for a misdemeanor offense. At first, officers in plain clothes allegedly showed up at their door posing as yard workers.
"She answered the door. Some older male and he told her do you need anyone to cut your grass and she said no. He left," said Rivas.
Minutes later her son says he saw more people dressed in dark clothing at the door. This time according to him, they pushed their way inside the home. Montgomery county police want transparency in such cases and a spokesman says Chief Charles Manger takes all brutality complaints very seriously. The department already started looking into the complaint even before it was officially filed.
The family says officers never identified themselves and did not produce a warrant until hours later. They thought it was a home invasion.
"In the corner of my eye, I see people running to the door with regular clothes and no uniform. They knock on door. I open it. They barge inside the house. Turn me around and put handcuffs on me," recalls Rivas.
The woman has worked as a seamstress for 40 plus years and was in her sewing room when she heard the ruckus. Moments later the 5 foot 2 inches woman says she was grabbed by a 6 foot tall officer, twice her size, without warning.
"They weren’t talking just grabbed my arm like animal and they twist and twist. I say stop you'll break my arm. I'm diabetic and old person and you break my bones," said Tundo.
"She doesn’t deserve it. If you coming for me, pull me outside. Be professional take me. Bring her outside. Let her know what's going on. No! It was like a crazy movie,” said Rivas
Now Tundo has a broken hand and will likely be in a cast for weeks. She is terrified.
"You can't trust nobody. I feel so upset. I don't deserve this. I always was a good person all my life. I don't know how I’m going to live. I can't work for a while. I don't know what to do,” said Tundo.
The family says they tried to file a complaint at a police station, but were only given a flyer and told to mail in their complaint. Montgomery county police say anyone with a complaint can file it at any police station. If you believe an officer is acting improperly, you can ask to have a supervisor sent to the scene at the time of the incident. SOURCE: FOX DC
"This guy grabbed my arm and was doing like this. Twisting it like this. I said stop you'll break my arm," said 65 year old Piera Tundo as she recounts the night she says an officer police broke her hand.
"I never done anything wrong all the years I came from Italy. I never get in trouble to nobody. They come in and treat like a criminal," said Tundo.
"She's fragile. She's never hurt a fly. She never got a ticket. Why are you guys attacking her. It was nerve wracking and it was very scary. Police brutality. Plain and simple," said her son Salvador Rivas.
Rivas says it all started as officers went to their home to serve him with a bench warrant after he failed to show up for court for a misdemeanor offense. At first, officers in plain clothes allegedly showed up at their door posing as yard workers.
"She answered the door. Some older male and he told her do you need anyone to cut your grass and she said no. He left," said Rivas.
Minutes later her son says he saw more people dressed in dark clothing at the door. This time according to him, they pushed their way inside the home. Montgomery county police want transparency in such cases and a spokesman says Chief Charles Manger takes all brutality complaints very seriously. The department already started looking into the complaint even before it was officially filed.
The family says officers never identified themselves and did not produce a warrant until hours later. They thought it was a home invasion.
"In the corner of my eye, I see people running to the door with regular clothes and no uniform. They knock on door. I open it. They barge inside the house. Turn me around and put handcuffs on me," recalls Rivas.
The woman has worked as a seamstress for 40 plus years and was in her sewing room when she heard the ruckus. Moments later the 5 foot 2 inches woman says she was grabbed by a 6 foot tall officer, twice her size, without warning.
"They weren’t talking just grabbed my arm like animal and they twist and twist. I say stop you'll break my arm. I'm diabetic and old person and you break my bones," said Tundo.
"She doesn’t deserve it. If you coming for me, pull me outside. Be professional take me. Bring her outside. Let her know what's going on. No! It was like a crazy movie,” said Rivas
Now Tundo has a broken hand and will likely be in a cast for weeks. She is terrified.
"You can't trust nobody. I feel so upset. I don't deserve this. I always was a good person all my life. I don't know how I’m going to live. I can't work for a while. I don't know what to do,” said Tundo.
The family says they tried to file a complaint at a police station, but were only given a flyer and told to mail in their complaint. Montgomery county police say anyone with a complaint can file it at any police station. If you believe an officer is acting improperly, you can ask to have a supervisor sent to the scene at the time of the incident. SOURCE: FOX DC
WHAT RECESSION: Montgomery politicians want mental health court
The Montgomery County Council’s Health and Human Services Committee and its Public Safety Committee will meet jointly on Monday, July 19, to continue discussions on the possibility of establishing a mental health court to better address the needs of mentally ill people who have committed minor criminal offenses. A mental health court or other program structured to decriminalize mental illness and increase treatment compliance could lead to reduced recidivism by treating the underlying cause for the criminal behavior.
The Health and Human Services Committee, which is chaired by George Leventhal and includes Councilmembers Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg, and the Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Roger Berliner and Marc Elrich, will met at 9:30 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville.
The joint committees last met on this topic in October. At that worksession, Fred Osher of the Council of State Governments Justice Center shared information on the study he and others conducted in which Montgomery County served as one of the research sites. The first phase of the study (from 2002-03) estimated that18 percent of the male inmates and 28 percent of female inmates in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility had some form of serious mental illness. The second phase of the study (2005-06) estimated 8 percent of male inmates and 21 percent of female inmates had serious mental illness.
If Montgomery establishes the first mental health court in County history, it would have a specialized docket for eligible defendants (people who have been arrested for minor, non-violent offenses) with mental illnesses. Its purpose would be to hold mentally ill criminal defendants accountable for their actions, while not criminalizing mental illness. The joint committees will discuss if Montgomery County is prepared to establish such a court.
“For too long, mental illness has been criminalized and those afflicted have been without adequate clinical services, housing and case management,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “A Mental Health Court in Montgomery County holds great promise toward reducing unnecessary incarceration and assisting the mentally ill in securing a better life. I am hopeful that one day this best practice will become a reality here in Montgomery County.
Raymond Crowel, chief of the County’s Department of Health and Human Resources’ Behavioral Health and Crisis Services, suggested that the Criminal Justice Behavioral Health Initiative (CJBHI) be asked to serve as the collaborative work group to develop recommendations on strategies to support a mental health court or “mini mental health court.”
“I have always found it unfortunate that jails continue to be the largest providers of mental health services,” said Councilmember Leventhal. “It would be far better if we could establish a program that would support and treat people in the community. I fully expect that such a program would prevent many repeat arrests for minor non-violent offenses that are a result of mental illness. And, in these fiscal times when we must spend every dollar with extreme care, could reduce long term costs associated with incarceration by wisely investing in treatment and prevention.”
County Council staff has suggest that it would be useful to look at cases from the past year to start to determine which, if any, might have been appropriate for a mental health court or a diversion program. Other concerns to be addressed are the sentiments of the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender and private defenders about a possible mental health court.
The Health and Human Services Committee, which is chaired by George Leventhal and includes Councilmembers Nancy Navarro and Duchy Trachtenberg, and the Public Safety Committee, which is chaired by Phil Andrews and includes Councilmembers Roger Berliner and Marc Elrich, will met at 9:30 a.m. in the Seventh Floor Hearing Room of the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Ave. in Rockville.
The joint committees last met on this topic in October. At that worksession, Fred Osher of the Council of State Governments Justice Center shared information on the study he and others conducted in which Montgomery County served as one of the research sites. The first phase of the study (from 2002-03) estimated that18 percent of the male inmates and 28 percent of female inmates in the Montgomery County Correctional Facility had some form of serious mental illness. The second phase of the study (2005-06) estimated 8 percent of male inmates and 21 percent of female inmates had serious mental illness.
If Montgomery establishes the first mental health court in County history, it would have a specialized docket for eligible defendants (people who have been arrested for minor, non-violent offenses) with mental illnesses. Its purpose would be to hold mentally ill criminal defendants accountable for their actions, while not criminalizing mental illness. The joint committees will discuss if Montgomery County is prepared to establish such a court.
“For too long, mental illness has been criminalized and those afflicted have been without adequate clinical services, housing and case management,” said Councilmember Trachtenberg. “A Mental Health Court in Montgomery County holds great promise toward reducing unnecessary incarceration and assisting the mentally ill in securing a better life. I am hopeful that one day this best practice will become a reality here in Montgomery County.
Raymond Crowel, chief of the County’s Department of Health and Human Resources’ Behavioral Health and Crisis Services, suggested that the Criminal Justice Behavioral Health Initiative (CJBHI) be asked to serve as the collaborative work group to develop recommendations on strategies to support a mental health court or “mini mental health court.”
“I have always found it unfortunate that jails continue to be the largest providers of mental health services,” said Councilmember Leventhal. “It would be far better if we could establish a program that would support and treat people in the community. I fully expect that such a program would prevent many repeat arrests for minor non-violent offenses that are a result of mental illness. And, in these fiscal times when we must spend every dollar with extreme care, could reduce long term costs associated with incarceration by wisely investing in treatment and prevention.”
County Council staff has suggest that it would be useful to look at cases from the past year to start to determine which, if any, might have been appropriate for a mental health court or a diversion program. Other concerns to be addressed are the sentiments of the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender and private defenders about a possible mental health court.
Storm knocks out power to 9000
WASHINGTON (AP) ― Nearly 9,000 customers in Maryland are without power after thunderstorms toppled trees and branches, bringing down electrical wires. Pepco spokesman Clay Anderson says utility lines at locations in Bethesda, Potomac and Rockville were affected. As of 7 a.m. Monday, Pepco was reporting 1,450 customers without power in Montgomery County. Meanwhile, Baltimore Gas & Electric was reporting 7,350 customers without power, mostly in Anne Arundel, Baltimore and Howard counties, as well as Baltimore City.
July 18, 2010
Photo: Devastation from Montgomery County earthquake
Now making the rounds in local twitter circles, a photo of the devastation caused by this morning's earthquake.
Montgomery County news blurbs
Montgomery County Planners Release Comprehensive Report Detailing Local Demographic, Economic Trends - How do different parts of Montgomery County compare in terms of the education, income and other characteristics of its residents? How is economic activity like employment, retail spending and office rents changing over time, and who are the largest Montgomery County employers? For more information and to view report go to: http://mncppc.typepad.com/news/2010/07/montgomery-county-planners-release-comprehensive-report-detailing-local-demographic-economic-trends-.html#more
Dog Park Permits Required for Use of Montgomery Parks Dog Parks as of August 1, 2010 - Effective August 1, 2010, permits will be required for the use of all Montgomery County dog parks managed by Montgomery Parks, M-NCPPC. The fee charged by Montgomery Parks will allow you and your dog(s) access to all Montgomery Parks dog parks located in Cabin John Regional Park, Olney Manor Park, Black Hill Regional Park, Ridge Road Recreational Park, and Wheaton Regional Park˜five at present, with the possibility of more to come. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryparks.org/permits/find/dogparkpermits.shtm
Josiah Henson Special Park Master Plan - The public is invited to review Park Staff's response to the input received from the first community meeting that was held in June. This meeting will be held on Monday, July, 26, 2010 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at Luxmanor Elementary School, 6201 Tilden Lane, Rockville, 20852. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryparks.org/calendar//events/index.php?com=detail&eID=661
Earthquake FAQs - I am assuming that the events of this morning may have left a few of you out there a bit „shaken.‰ Bad joke aside, I want to provide all of you out there some good information from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) web site so that you can take steps to prepare and handle any future tremors that may occur. For more information go to: http://mcfrs.blogspot.com/2010/07/earthquake-faqs.html
MDOT MD 355/Rockville Pike Crossing Project Public Meeting - To present the elements of the study, including potential solutions, and obtain input from the community. The following is time/date/location of the public meeting:
Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:00 pm. Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. 4301 East-West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland
Project Location: Rockville Pike, MD 355. Crossing between the Medical Center Metro Station and National Naval Medical Center. For more information and to forward written comments contact: Ken Kendall, P.E., Project Manager. Transportation Planning and Design Section. Division of Transportation Engineering. Telephone: 240-777-7267. 100 Edison Park Drive, Fourth Floor, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878.
County Planning Director Launches Blog Highlighting What Makes Great Communities ˆ To provide another opportunity for residents to have a voice in planning their communities, Montgomery County Planning Director Rollin Stanley has created a new blog that will highlight new ways of looking at growth. For more information go to: http://mncppc.typepad.com/news/2010/07/county-planning-director-launches-blog-highlighting-what-makes-great-communities-.html#more
Backpack and School Supply Drive to Benefit MCPS Students - Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is collecting backpacks and other new school supplies starting this Saturday. All backpacks and supplies will be distributed to MCPS students in need during the school system‚s third annual Back-to-School Fair on August 28. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/press/index.aspx?page=showrelease&id=2792
Montgomery County Earns Highest Honor as America's Top Digital County Government - Montgomery County has been named America‚s top digital county government in the United States by The Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo). Montgomery County received first place honors in the competition for jurisdictions with populations of 500,000 or greater. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6740
County's Office of Human Rights Seeks Nominations for Hall of Fame -The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights (OHR) is currently accepting nominations for its Sixth Hall of Fame. Nominees should be individuals ˆ either living or deceased ˆ who have made contributions to human and civil rights in the county. The deadline for nominations is September 3. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6738
Dog Park Permits Required for Use of Montgomery Parks Dog Parks as of August 1, 2010 - Effective August 1, 2010, permits will be required for the use of all Montgomery County dog parks managed by Montgomery Parks, M-NCPPC. The fee charged by Montgomery Parks will allow you and your dog(s) access to all Montgomery Parks dog parks located in Cabin John Regional Park, Olney Manor Park, Black Hill Regional Park, Ridge Road Recreational Park, and Wheaton Regional Park˜five at present, with the possibility of more to come. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryparks.org/permits/find/dogparkpermits.shtm
Josiah Henson Special Park Master Plan - The public is invited to review Park Staff's response to the input received from the first community meeting that was held in June. This meeting will be held on Monday, July, 26, 2010 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at Luxmanor Elementary School, 6201 Tilden Lane, Rockville, 20852. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryparks.org/calendar//events/index.php?com=detail&eID=661
Earthquake FAQs - I am assuming that the events of this morning may have left a few of you out there a bit „shaken.‰ Bad joke aside, I want to provide all of you out there some good information from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) web site so that you can take steps to prepare and handle any future tremors that may occur. For more information go to: http://mcfrs.blogspot.com/2010/07/earthquake-faqs.html
MDOT MD 355/Rockville Pike Crossing Project Public Meeting - To present the elements of the study, including potential solutions, and obtain input from the community. The following is time/date/location of the public meeting:
Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:00 pm. Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School. 4301 East-West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland
Project Location: Rockville Pike, MD 355. Crossing between the Medical Center Metro Station and National Naval Medical Center. For more information and to forward written comments contact: Ken Kendall, P.E., Project Manager. Transportation Planning and Design Section. Division of Transportation Engineering. Telephone: 240-777-7267. 100 Edison Park Drive, Fourth Floor, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878.
County Planning Director Launches Blog Highlighting What Makes Great Communities ˆ To provide another opportunity for residents to have a voice in planning their communities, Montgomery County Planning Director Rollin Stanley has created a new blog that will highlight new ways of looking at growth. For more information go to: http://mncppc.typepad.com/news/2010/07/county-planning-director-launches-blog-highlighting-what-makes-great-communities-.html#more
Backpack and School Supply Drive to Benefit MCPS Students - Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) is collecting backpacks and other new school supplies starting this Saturday. All backpacks and supplies will be distributed to MCPS students in need during the school system‚s third annual Back-to-School Fair on August 28. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/press/index.aspx?page=showrelease&id=2792
Montgomery County Earns Highest Honor as America's Top Digital County Government - Montgomery County has been named America‚s top digital county government in the United States by The Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties (NACo). Montgomery County received first place honors in the competition for jurisdictions with populations of 500,000 or greater. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6740
County's Office of Human Rights Seeks Nominations for Hall of Fame -The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights (OHR) is currently accepting nominations for its Sixth Hall of Fame. Nominees should be individuals ˆ either living or deceased ˆ who have made contributions to human and civil rights in the county. The deadline for nominations is September 3. For more information go to: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6738
July 17, 2010
MOCO FATE? Rolling fire department closures in Philly
New cuts may be coming to the Philadelphia Fire Department and they could include rolling closures of firehouses. What if you stopped by your local firehouse and found the firefighters who would normally be first to answer your call weren't there at all that day? It could happen. The city announced as many as four units each day may be taken out of service in neighborhoods city wide in hopes of saving more than $3.5 million in overtime to ease the city's budget crunch.
"He's (Mayor Michael Nutter) rolling the dice and he's playing Russian roulette with people's lives," said Bill Gault, President of Local 22, the firefighters' union.
Unlike past permanent shutdowns of five engine and two ladder companies, which prompted large neighborhood protests, neighbors apparently won't be told in advance or perhaps at all if their local engine or ladder company is being put out of service.
"It's smoke and mirrors. The citizens don't have any idea there's nobody in there," Gault said.
When asked if the rolling service cuts were an attempt to disguise fire department cutbacks in order to defuse neighborhood protests, Mayor Nutter said: "We've been very straightforward quite frankly. We're not disguising anything." Nutter said the rolling cuts will enable the city to avoid layoffs and added that protection for residents will not be impacted.
"When you call 911, we show up, that's the bottom line," Nutter said. CBS 3 Philly
"He's (Mayor Michael Nutter) rolling the dice and he's playing Russian roulette with people's lives," said Bill Gault, President of Local 22, the firefighters' union.
Unlike past permanent shutdowns of five engine and two ladder companies, which prompted large neighborhood protests, neighbors apparently won't be told in advance or perhaps at all if their local engine or ladder company is being put out of service.
"It's smoke and mirrors. The citizens don't have any idea there's nobody in there," Gault said.
When asked if the rolling service cuts were an attempt to disguise fire department cutbacks in order to defuse neighborhood protests, Mayor Nutter said: "We've been very straightforward quite frankly. We're not disguising anything." Nutter said the rolling cuts will enable the city to avoid layoffs and added that protection for residents will not be impacted.
"When you call 911, we show up, that's the bottom line," Nutter said. CBS 3 Philly
July 16, 2010
Santos, Postal and Company, P.C. CPA firm assists Clients regarding fraud risk, more
Fraud Risk Increases in Tough Times
As the economy continues to decline and people experience financial hardship, the risk of fraud increases. The CPAs at SantosPostal can review your system of controls and recommend procedures to improve any identified weaknesses. Contact Tony Orsborne, Principal, at 240-499-2050 or via email at AOrsborne@SantosPostal.com.
Financial Check – Up
Just like you go to your doctor for an annual physical exam, and visit your dentist for periodic cleanings, it is imperative that you do not neglect your financial well being and schedule an appointment with Jim LaGrone, Principal, as soon as possible. Jim will assess your financial situation including, but not limited to, your retirement planning, college savings, portfolio allocations and diversification strategy, long term care needs, and any other aspects of your financial health that is critical for you and your family’s survival. Jim can be reached at 240-499-2043 or via email at JLaGrone@SantosPostal.com.
Bank Financing
Is your line of credit up for renewal and you're not sure about some of the terms and conditions the bank is requiring? Are you trying to obtain financing for the first time and find yourself unfamiliar with the process? Negotiating bank financing is a specialty. You wouldn’t give yourself a haircut or replace the engine to your car by yourself; you would let an expert help you. Do yourself a favor and call our expert, Bob Greenfest, Principal, before entering any type of financing relationship. Bob will use his 30 years of expertise and guide you through this process. Bob’s direct line is 240-499-2075.
As the economy continues to decline and people experience financial hardship, the risk of fraud increases. The CPAs at SantosPostal can review your system of controls and recommend procedures to improve any identified weaknesses. Contact Tony Orsborne, Principal, at 240-499-2050 or via email at AOrsborne@SantosPostal.com.
Financial Check – Up
Just like you go to your doctor for an annual physical exam, and visit your dentist for periodic cleanings, it is imperative that you do not neglect your financial well being and schedule an appointment with Jim LaGrone, Principal, as soon as possible. Jim will assess your financial situation including, but not limited to, your retirement planning, college savings, portfolio allocations and diversification strategy, long term care needs, and any other aspects of your financial health that is critical for you and your family’s survival. Jim can be reached at 240-499-2043 or via email at JLaGrone@SantosPostal.com.
Bank Financing
Is your line of credit up for renewal and you're not sure about some of the terms and conditions the bank is requiring? Are you trying to obtain financing for the first time and find yourself unfamiliar with the process? Negotiating bank financing is a specialty. You wouldn’t give yourself a haircut or replace the engine to your car by yourself; you would let an expert help you. Do yourself a favor and call our expert, Bob Greenfest, Principal, before entering any type of financing relationship. Bob will use his 30 years of expertise and guide you through this process. Bob’s direct line is 240-499-2075.
District 14 Republican slate is in place
A diverse group of four individuals have filed as Republican candidates for state office in Maryland Legislative District 14, Montgomery County. This ticket represents a new voice of modern, moderate Maryland –
Eric Cary- State Senate Candidate- Bio info at: www.EricCary.com
Pat Fenati- State Delegate Candidate- Bio info at: www.patriciafenati.org
Henry Kahwaty- State Delegate Candidate- Bio info at: HenryForMaryland.com
Maria Pena-Faustino- State Delegate Candidate- Info at: Maria4House@gmail.com
Please contact candidates directly to arrange interview or events- additional notices of activities will follow.
Forum in Hagerstown on Illegal immigration on Tuesday, July 20
Topi: "Illegal Immigration in Maryland - A Plan for Action!"
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, Time: 7:00- 9:00 p.m.
Speakers: Charles A. Jenkins, Sheriff of Frederick County Maryland
Frederick County is the only county in Maryland that has implemented the Federal 287(g) program in cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Frederick County also participates in the ICE Secure Communities Program.
Brad Botwin, Director, Help Save Maryland
A multi-ethnic, grass roots citizens' organization with members state-wide. HSM opposes the use of tax dollars on programs and services that attract and sustain illegal aliens. HSM will discuss the financial and social costs of illegal immigration in Washington County and Maryland.
Location: Dimensions Dining & Catering. 132 Old National Pike (Alt. 40 just south of Funkstown). Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.739.7260
Come early and enjoy a relaxing dinner at Dimensions restaurant! Hosted by the Hagerstown Tea Party. For more information call Ann at 301-797-8051 or e-mail acorco9104@aol.com
Tuesday, July 20, 2010, Time: 7:00- 9:00 p.m.
Speakers: Charles A. Jenkins, Sheriff of Frederick County Maryland
Frederick County is the only county in Maryland that has implemented the Federal 287(g) program in cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Frederick County also participates in the ICE Secure Communities Program.
Brad Botwin, Director, Help Save Maryland
A multi-ethnic, grass roots citizens' organization with members state-wide. HSM opposes the use of tax dollars on programs and services that attract and sustain illegal aliens. HSM will discuss the financial and social costs of illegal immigration in Washington County and Maryland.
Location: Dimensions Dining & Catering. 132 Old National Pike (Alt. 40 just south of Funkstown). Hagerstown, MD 21740 301.739.7260
Come early and enjoy a relaxing dinner at Dimensions restaurant! Hosted by the Hagerstown Tea Party. For more information call Ann at 301-797-8051 or e-mail acorco9104@aol.com
Joe Russek Statement in District 5, against Valerie Ervin
I am running for Montgomery Council district 5 because of the very extensive spending and high taxes that the Council and Executive have forced on the County. I cannot imagine what else they can tax. We have higher property taxes (mine went up 30% in 2 years, parking fees went up over 300%, parking became much more difficult, the roads have become a speed control because some of them are street long potholes, barricades have been put in the middle of residential 2 lane streets on the false guise of safety, we lost over 300 parking spaces in my neighborhood alone because of the possible passage of school buses (there never were any problems for 50 years), business areas have lost entire streets to parking, dog owners are forced to pay $40 to let their dog play, the County is trying to tell us what we can eat. energy taxes have gone sky high. The County admitted that they pay employees at least 20% more than any other area claiming that gives us better employees. No, the people are the same - they are just paid more. These are but a few of the things wrong with the County. Read the Declaration! Only one grievance is not true today - we don't quarter soldiers in private homes. This is why the Tea Party exists.
Joseph M Russek - candidate for Montgomery Council dist 5
4200 Highwood Rd. Silver Spring, MD 20906
joerus@cavtel.net
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