Office of Community Partnerships E-Bulletin - November 20, 2009

[Howard Hartman]

 

 

Office of Community Partnerships E-Bulletin

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett's Office of Community Partnerships

THANKSGIVING PARADE   On Saturday, November 21st from 9:30 a.m. – 12 noon, in downtown Silver Spring on Georgia Avenue from Sligo to Silver Plaza on Ellsworth Drive to Fenton Street. Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, as Grand Marshal, and other local elected officials will ride in the parade. Among the musical units will be the Washington Redskins Marching Band and the Bowie State University “Symphony of Soul,” plus local high school bands. Among others appearing will be units representing the Washington Nationals, plus Almas and Boumi Shrine.  There will also be giant helium balloons, including “Stewie,” and “Darth Vader,” floats, equestrian units, and Santa, etc.   FAITHFULNESS TOGETHER, NOVEMBER 22   Sunday, November 22nd, from 2:30-5:30 p.m. Montgomery County Executive's Office of Community Partnerships and Montgomery County Executive's Faith Community Advisory Group will be hosting "Faithfulness Together: Responding to the Needs of Women and Children in Montgomery County." You are invited to join leaders in ministry, social service, and local government as they enter into constructive dialogue about women and children living in the margins of our community. Expect to share honestly, listen deeply, and plan effectively to do the work we are compelled to do because of our Faithfulness Together.   Faithfulness Together will be held at the Greenridge Baptist Church, 21925 Frederick Rd., Clarksburg, MD 20871. You can register online at https://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/MeetingRegistration/register.aspx.   VOLUNTEER CENTER, INTERFAITH WORKS INVITE PRTICIPATION IN HOLIDAY GIVING PROJECT; OPPORTUNITIES TO VOLUNTEER AND/OR DONATE GOODS, CASH   Individuals, families, companies and civic and faith groups in Montgomery County that want to help make the Thanksgiving and December holidays brighter for local residents in need are invited to participate in this year's Montgomery County Holiday Giving Project through donations of food, gift cards, gifts for children and/or cash  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6037   MIDDLE EASTERN ADVISORY GROUP CENSUS KICKOFF!   The Montgomery County Middle Eastern Advisory Group will hold its kickoff Saturday, November 21 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. It will be held at the Bethesda Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 2nd floor conference room, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD.

IN THIS ISSUE Office of Community Partnerships' Calendar Advisory Groups Community Events of the Week Community Building Opportunities Announcements Boards, Committees and Commissions Volunteer Opportunities in the Community Job Announcements

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS CALENDAR

Community Outreach Forum: Third Wednesday of every month at Executive Office Building Auditorium. Contact Karla Silvestre for more information: karla.silvestre@montgomerycountymd.gov.    Committee for Ethnic Affairs: First Thursday of every month, 7 pm at the Executive Office Building Auditorium except in July and August. Contact Lisa Austin for additional information: lisa.austin@montgomerycountymd.gov.   Down County Latino Network: The Down County will meet on December 16, 2/24, 4/28, 6/23/10 at the Mid County Regional Service Center.  Contact Karla Silvestre for more information: karla.silvestre@montgomerycountymd.gov.     Up County Latino Network:  Next meeting will be November 18th 9:30am. Future dates include January 27th, March 24th, and May 26th at Bohrer Park, Activity Room A of the Activity Center, 506 South Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. Contact Karla Silvestre for more information: karla.silvestre@montgomerycountymd.gov.   Committee for Montgomery Annual Legislative Breakfast - Monday, December 14, 7 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. at Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. Featured keynote speaker: Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, Michael Busch. For more information, please contact CFM Managing Director, Charlotte Davis, at charldavis@committeeformontgomery.org

ADVISORY GROUPS

Click here for information on the Committee for Ethnic Affairs, including meeting schedules and minutes. Click here for a list of participating Advisory Group members and meeting minutes.

COMMUNITY EVENTS OF THE WEEK

PREPARING FOR SUCCESS   Preparing For Success is a seminar aimed at high school girls who plan to attend college or enter the workplace. November 21, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at Montgomery College, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD. Registration is in the Theatre Arts Building. 2009's event includes: Lunch and Breakfast Provided, Raffle Prizes, Resume Writing and Interview Techniques, Getting Into College and Paying For It, Street Law and How to Stay Safe, Survivors Guide to Independence, and "The Right Look" Fashion Show. Come dressed in your best business casual outfit and you may get the chance to appear as one of our models in the fashion show!   All workshops are presented in English; however we may have Spanish interpreters for the event. There will be free bus service from certain High Schools. For more information, please call Louise H. Preble Schwartz, Esq., 301-654-4345 atregnani@aol.com">patregnani@aol.com.You may register on-line at www.preparingforsuccess.org.   MONTGOMERY COUNTY’S OFFICE OF HUMAN RIGHTS TO HOST COMMUNITY FORUM ON RACIAL PROFILING   The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights (OHR) and the Human Rights Commission will co-host a community educational forum on racial profiling on Monday, November 23 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6044   ROCKVILLE SET TO INAUGURATE 62ND MAYOR AND COUNCIL ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22   The inauguration for the newly elected Mayor and Council is scheduled for 1 pm, Sunday, November 22, at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, 603 Edmonston Drive. For more information go to:  http://www.rockvillemd.gov/news/2009/11-november/11-13-09.htm   SUGAR LOAF CRAFTS FESTIVAL, NOVEMBER 20 -22   Lovers of fine crafts and art will find more than 350 top artisans displaying and selling their unique creations in pottery, sculpture, glass, jewelry, fashion, home décor, furniture and home accessories, items for the garden, and photography. In addition to top national artists, the Festival will also introduce new and emerging artists showcasing the latest trends in handmade fashion and accessories, statement jewelry and fine art.  For more information go to: http://www.sugarloafcrafts.com/festivals/gaith/november/   HOLIDAY ART SHOW & SALE   The Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture presents its annual Holiday Art Show and Sale from November 27 – January 10. The exhibition, in the Popcorn Gallery, features works by resident artists, instructors, and other featured artists. The show will include jewelry, glass, ceramics, photography, painting, and more. Browse and buy fine artworks for everyone on your holiday shopping list; on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 pm to 6 pm. Check back for additional holiday hours.  For more information, call (301) 634-2222.   TAKE JOY! PRODUCTION, DECEMBER 18 AND 19   Shopped out? Stressed out? Strathmore’s post-modern pageant imagines a holiday season filled with light and joy, in a celebration like no other you’ll experience this season! Filled with favorite holiday songs, music from Beethoven to rock, and original songs—plus poetry by Dylan Thomas, Emily Dickinson, and Langston Hughes, it’s an evening of surprises and revelations, from the time you enter the Music Center until you depart for home, in a happy holiday mood! Click here for more information, including how to get tickets.   SENIOR HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING   A Maryland SHIP volunteer will meet with individual seniors and family members to answer questions about claims, supplemental insurance, Medicare, etc. Call 301-590-2819 to make an appointment.  Counseling will be held at the Wheaton Library on December 8 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.   THE GARDEN OF LIGHT – SEASONS OF LIGHT   Brookside Gardens’ year-long 40th Anniversary Party continues with the Garden of Lights. It wouldn’t be a party without candles, or in this case 940,000 twinkling colorful lights shaped in imaginative displays throughout the gardens. Enjoy the four seasons illuminated as giant summer sunflowers, autumn leaves, winter snowflakes, spring flowers, rain showers, and more.  The Garden of Lights is from November 27, 2009 - January 3, 2010.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomeryparks.org/brookside/garden_lights.shtm   EDGEMOOR ART AND FINE CRAFT SHOW   On November 21, a juried show and sale of fine art and craft by 16 artists. The show will be at the Edgemoor Club, 7415 Exeter Rd from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Admission is free, for more information call 301-718-3719.   MUSIKIDS OPEN HOUSE   Free music class for children on November 22.  Located at 4900 Auburn Ave., hours are 10 am-12 pm.  Ages 0-5, admission is free.  For more information call 301-215-7914.   ATTEND ADULT LEARNERS ONE STOP SHOP EVENING REGISTRATION, DECEMBER 2   Do you have questions about the spring registration?  Have them answered at the Adult Learners' "One Stop Shop" Evening Registration Workshop on Wednesday, December 2, from 6-8 pm in Room 015, Campus Center, Rockville Campus.  This workshop is geared toward adult students, ages 25 - 59. Students will have an opportunity to meet with counselors to discuss education planning, registration and financial aid.  Light refreshment will be provided.  The event is co-sponsored by the Office of Adult Student Services and Enrollment Management.  For more information contact Program Coordinator John-Ubong Silas at 240-567-5303 or john.silas@montgomerycollege.edu.   DON’T MISS HENRY AND MUDGE ON NOVEMBER 28   Moving to a new house in the country from the city can be very hard. Just ask Henry. He misses his cousin and best friend Annie, and he can't seem to find a new playmate in his new neighborhood. Luckily, his parents buy him a great, big, slobbery dog-Mudge-with whom he can share all kinds of adventures.  It looks like Henry and Mudge will be best friends forever, until Annie arrives for a visit. Will Annie come between a boy and his dog?  Can a kid have two best friends?  Find out in this wonderful new musical based on the bestselling children's book Henry and Mudge.  For more information go to:  http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=14831   COUNTY TO HOLD H1N1 CLINIC FOR ADULTS 18 TO 64 WITH CHRONIC ILLNESS; DOSES AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY FOR CLINIC ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 24   The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services will offer an H1N1 vaccination clinic for adults 18 to 64 years of age who have a chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, HIV/AIDS and cancer by appointment only on Tuesday, November 24 from 9 am to 12 noon.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6043   IMPROVE YOUR READING, ENTERTAIN A DOG   Second-and third-graders can improve their reading skills and make Katie's day.  Katie, a visiting therapy Dalmatian, loves to hear stories.  Come out at 4 pm, Wednesday, Nov. 25, at the Twinbrook Library, 202 Meadow Hall Road.   FIRST THURSDAY HAPPY HOUR WITH BETHESDA GREEN!   Join Bethesda Green for Good Cheer and Chili at the Hard Times Café; on Thursday, December 3rd starting at 5 pm.  Learn more about our programs, upcoming events, how to get involved, and support Bethesda Green.  Email info@bethesdagreen.org for more information or visit our website www.bethesdagreen.org to learn more!   BINGO & LUNCH   Join a Sunday luncheon followed by games on November 22; all proceeds will be given to charity. Being held at The Woman’s Club of Bethesda, 5500 Sonoma Rd. at 1 pm; adults, $30; kids, $10. For more information call 301-865-7080.   BETHESDA’S WINTER WONDERLAND   Celebrate the holiday season in downtown Bethesda on December 4th & 5th with free winter activities including a winter concert, live ice sculpting presentations, a student choral concert and visit from Santa Claus. All events are free and family friendly!  For more information go to: http://www.bethesda.org/specialevents/winter/winter.htm   MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEET ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23   The Rockville Mayor and Council will meet for the first time since the election. They are scheduled to meet at 7 pm, Monday, Nov. 23, at City Hall. Items on the agenda include a presentation on the Montgomery County Judicial Center annex, a public hearing to allow for the development of a synagogue and more.   AARP SENIOR DRIVER SAFETY CLASS   Attendees simply attend the one, 4-hour class and they receive their completion certificate! The class registration fees are $12.00 for AARP members and $14.00 for non-AARP members. The instructor will continue to collect the fee on the day of the class. Saturday, November 21, 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center, 3300 Briggs Chaney Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20904. Language: English. Limited Seats only! For more information or to register, call # (240) 777-8400.   EAST COUNTY CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD (ECCAB)   Residents are invited to attend the East County Citizens Advisory Board meetings and encouraged to ask questions & provide comments. The next ECCAB meeting will be held at the Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center on Wednesday, December 2 at 7:15pm. ECCAB Meetings are open to Public. For questions please contact the Center at (240) 777-8400/TTY (240) 777-8418.   24TH ANNUAL EXECUTIVE’S BALL FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE ARTS AND HUMANITIES   Satisfy your Appetite for the Arts and Humanities at 24th annual Executive's Ball for the Benefit of the Arts and Humanities. Join County Executive "Ike" Leggett and Mrs. Catherine Leggett as we celebrate the rich cultural assets we have in Montgomery County! Sunday, December 6 at 6 p.m. Hilton Rockville - $100, Advance Registration Purchase tickets here (Advance purchase is available until December 2).    HABITAT FOOD DRIVE TO BENEFIT MANNA FOOD CENTER   National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness week is November 15th-21st. During that week Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, MD, Inc. and Manna Food Center are teaming up to fight hunger in Montgomery County. For every non-perishable food item you drop off at Habitat ReStore location on Gaither Road in Gaithersburg you will receive one ReStore Buck ($0.25) good towards your next purchase. Help fight hunger and save!    FANNIE MAE’S 22ND ANNUAL HELP THE HOMELESS WALKATHON   In one day you can impact the lives of more than 12,000 people affected by homelessness in our area by joining tens of thousands of walkers taking part in the 22nd Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon on Saturday, November 21. Your efforts can help end homelessness for our most vulnerable citizens.  For more information go to:  http://www.helpthehomelessdc.org/site/PageServer?pagename=09_walker_register   NOMINATE SOMEONE FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY NAACP EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARDS   The 2009-2010 school year marks the presentation of the second annual Montgomery County NAACP Excellence in Education Principal and Teacher of the Year Awards.  One MCPS principal and one MCPS teacher will be recognized for their commitment to closing the achievement gap through programs meeting the academic and social needs of all students.  Nominations for Principal and Teacher of the Year must be submitted by December 18. For more information go to: http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/clusteradmin/schoolperformance/naacpaward/    PUPPET THEATER FOLKTALES COMING TO MONTGOMERY PUBLIC LIBRARIES THIS FALL   Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will present a series of Puppet Theater folktales at 12 libraries between September 26 and November 28.   For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=5843

COMMUNITY BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES

SIGN UP FOR THE GOVERNOR'S GRANT OFFICE NEWSLETTER AT  http://www.grants.maryland.gov  **Great resources, webinars and grant opportunities**

GOVERNOR’S GRANTS OFFICE OFFERS FREE WEBINARS   For anyone interested in securing future federal funds, it helps to know where the current funds are flowing. The Governor's Grants Office is hosting a series of free webinars through a generous donation from Verizon. The first webinar, "Follow the Money: Tracking Where Recovery Act Dollars Flow," was sold out, and the podcast can be viewed here. There still is time to register for the second free webinar hosted by the Governor's Grants Office. "Recession-Proof Your Grantwriting," for beginning and intermediate grant writers, will run from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 2nd. Click here to preregister for the online webinar. For additional inquiries, please contact Susan Casey at scasey@gov.state.md.us or call 410-260-3909.   30TH ANNUAL WOMEN’S LEGISLATIVE BRIEFING   Registration now open for the 30th Annual Women’s Legislative Briefing on Sunday, January 31, 12:30 - 5 p.m. It will be held at University of Maryland, Shady Grove Campus Bldg II, 9630 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland. The keynote speaker will be Lilly Ledbetter, Pay Equity Advocate. General admission fee $10. For more information, please contact the Montgomery County Commission for Women at 240-777-8330. www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw   OUTLOOK ON THE 2010 SESSION OF THE MARYLAND GENERAL ASSEMBLY   Join us on Tuesday, December 1st as guest speakers provide the Outlook on the 2010 Session of the Maryland General Assembly and what it means to businesses in Montgomery County.  In addition to providing a fiscal update, issues to be addressed will include funding for transportation projects and education; revenue resources including gasoline and other potential tax increases, and federal health care legislation and its impact on Maryland.  Speakers include: •  The Honorable Rich Madaleno, Chairman of the Montgomery County Senate Delegation to the Maryland General Assembly •  The Honorable Brian Feldman, Chairman of the Montgomery County House Delegation to the Maryland General Assembly •  Ron Wineholt, Legislative Director of the Maryland Chamber of Commerce Breakfast begins at 7:30 am and presentations are from 8:00 am-10:00 am.  Register online at www.bccchamber.org.   DEVELOPER ROUNDTABLE   DHCA will hold a Developer Roundtable on Wednesday, December 9th from 3:00 – 5:00 pm.  It will be an opportunity for developers to learn about DHCA’s housing development programs and loan application process, including changes that will take effect in January 2010.  The session will be held in the first-floor auditorium in the Council Office Building at 100 Maryland Avenue.  Please RSVP to Alisa Wilson in the Multifamily Section at: alisa.wilson@montgomerycountymd.gov.   FREE ONE-ON-ONE SMALL BUSINESS COUNSELING   SCORE the “Counselors to America’s Small Business” is a national association dedicated to helping small business owners form and grow their own businesses.  We are currently working with SCORE to explore providing free one-on-one small business counseling at the B-CC Regional Services Center.  If you are interested in attending these free one-on-one small business counseling sessions, please email us at: bethesda.citizen@montgomerycountymd.gov.   EPA ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANT FUNDING   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is accepting grant applications for a total of $3.4 million in funding for environmental education projects and programs. EPA expects to award approximately 100 grants ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 and will accept applications until December 15.  For more information click here.   COMMUNITY ADVISORY GROUP INFORMATION SESSION   Kim Watson & Pepco cordially invite you to an information session and thanks you for your participation in our Community Advisory Group during 2009. Thursday, December 10, 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at the Strathmore Mansion, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda MD. R.S.V. P. by December 2, 2009 to Cynthia Simmons, at (202) 872-3462, or by email at csimmons@pepco.com or to Zenayda Mostofi at (202) 872-3590.   FROM ANCHORING THE NEWS TO MANAGING CORPORATE REPUTATION: PERSPECTIVES ON THE WORLD OF NEW MEDIA   Round House Theatre’s Business Roundtable invites you to meet Kathleen Matthews, Executive Vice President, Global Communications and Public Affairs of Marriott International, Inc. to discuss “From Anchoring the News to Managing Corporate Reputation: Perspectives on the World of New Media,” on Friday, December 18 at 12 noon at Round House Theatre Bethesda, 4545 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814.   Please join other local business leaders for networking and an informative presentation over lunch. Lunch and Speaker $30. RSVP by December 15 with payment information to Meaghan Phelan at mphelan@roundhousetheatre.org or call 240.644.1402 GRANT FOR 1 YEAR OF DESIGN CONSULTING HELP   Studio Orange Design, Subtle Technology and Tiffany Manning Photography will be donating a full year of design and marketing services to one nonprofit organization, located anywhere in the United States, valued up to $75,000. Apply by January 15. http://www.we-inspire.org/    EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THIS ECONOMY SYMPOSIUM 2009   In an effort to keep in line with their mission, the Maryland Commission for Women (MCW) is providing this informational conference. Participants will be able to choose appropriate sources and attend one-stop, informational workshops and panels that will provide information and access to resources in the outlined areas. Experts will extend necessary resources to assist Maryland women in this challenging economic time by:  Providing ready-to-use resources and information services, setting up consultations and appointments, and generating opportunities for residents to collaborate with other residents, state/local/federal agencies to improve their chances of economic success.     Please join the MCW at the Prince George’s Community College’s Largo Student Center, in Largo, MD on Saturday, December 5, 2009 from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. Phone: 410-767-3049. www.marylandwomen.org   NEW MEDICAL CLINIC   Community Ministries of Rockville will be providing medical care at the brand new Mansfield Kaseman Clinic, 8 West Middle Lane Rockville MD. This clinic is a Community Health Link Clinic that provides health care and referrals to adults who are uninsured. Please call 301-917-6800 if you would like to schedule an appointment or have any questions.   FREE INTERNET AND EMAIL TRAINING AVAILABLE TO LOW INCOME SENIORS IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY   The JCA Senior Community Service Employment Program has received additional funding to offer free internet and email training for low income seniors in Montgomery County. This program is called “Generations On Line”. The first of two initial training sites for this pilot will be at JCA’s Bethesda Vital Living Center at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, 2nd floor, in Bethesda (located in the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Service Center).    Training will be in the mornings Monday through Friday, with computers available for practice each weekday afternoon except Tuesday. If you know seniors, 55 years old or older, who would like to learn how to use the internet and email, please have them contact Linda Reaves at 240.395.0918 to schedule their training sessions.      FREE CELL PHONES FOR LOW INCOME RESIDENTS IN MD   Through SafeLink Wireless' Lifeline Service you can receive:  A FREE SafeLink Wireless phone  A FREE cellular plan that gives you 64 Minutes every month You qualify for Lifeline Service in your area if you already participate in one of the following assistance programs:   Electric Universal Service Program   Food Stamps   Maryland Energy Assistance Program   Medical Assistance   Public Assistance to Adults   Supplemental Security Income (SSI)   Temporary Cash Assistance   Temporary Disability Assistance Program In order to qualify for the SafeLink Wireless phone we must verify with the Maryland Department of Human Resources that you participate in the social service program you provided. Please be advised that your application status may take approximately 30 business days to process. For more information go to:  https:/www.safelinkwireless.com/Enrollmentpublic/Home.aspx FREE FUNDRAISING CLASSES   Foundation Center's Cooperating Collection at the Rockville Public Library will host a  free fundraising class for nonprofits in Montgomery County: Proposal Writing Basics, December 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. A basic overview of the process, is geared toward new proposal writers. Register online. For more information and directions, click here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE FOR THANKSGIVING DAY   Montgomery County government will observe the following holiday schedule for Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, November 26:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6034   A WIDER CIRCLE COLLECTING THANKSGIVING DONATIONS   A Wider Circle is collecting non-perishable healthy food items and grocery gift cards to help neighbors in need this Thanksgiving.  The baskets will be distributed to families in the greater DC region.  For more information: http://www.awidercircle.org/holidays09.html.   DAVIS LIBRARY RENOVATION SUBJECT OF PUBLIC MEETING   Current information on the upcoming renovation and expansion of the Davis Library will be presented at a public meeting to be held on December 2, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the large meeting room of the library located at 6400 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6033   PURPLE LINE FUNCTIONAL PLAN   Planners have proposed a Purple Line Functional Plan, a series of recommendations for the proposed transit line's route, mode and stations, for Planning Board review. The Board set a December 10 public hearing at 7 pm at 8787 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, MD for anyone interested to comment on the plan. Sign up online to testify go to:  http://www.daicsearch.org/planning_board/testify.asp   SUPPORT ROCKVILLE’S HOLIDAY DRIVE   For nearly 40 years, the City of Rockville has operated an annual Holiday Drive to distribute food baskets and new toys to needy Rockville families.  For more information go to:  http://www.rockvillemd.gov/residents/ncs/holiday-drive.html   JANUARY/FEBRUARY AND MARCH/APRIL SCHEDULES NOW AVAILABLE   The JCA SeniorTech Computer Training Centers, a service of the Jewish Council for the Aging, are gearing up for the January/February and March/April sessions.  All JCA SeniorTech sites offer a range of courses from basic to advanced, using the Windows XP operating system, Microsoft Vista and high-Speed internet service.  Courses are taught by volunteer instructors and coaches who are 50+, and most feature hands –on experience.  Spaces are still available in most classes. Call today!   Sites are located at the Asbury Methodist Village in Gaithersburg, Bethesda Vital Living Center in Bethesda, B’nai Shalom of Olney in Olney, Landmark Mall in Alexandria and Temple Rodef Shalom in Falls Church.  We are proud to announce that our newest SeniorTech Computer Center will be open at Holiday Park Senior Center for our March/April session.  All classes are opened to seniors 50+ and every student is afforded the opportunity to use the site for free practice weekly for one year after their first enrollment.  All sites have easy access via metro or bus and ample parking is available.  To register or for more information, please see the JCA website: www.AccessJCA.org or call 240-395-0915.   PARK PLAY DAYS AT CABIN JOHN ICE   No school? No problem! Bring your 6-13 year-olds to Cabin John Ice Rink for a Park Play Day! On many of the days Montgomery County Public Schools are off, Park Play Days are on! Your kids will enjoy a day full of fun, including a tennis lesson (weather permitting), ice skating lesson, arts & crafts, and fun team games and sports. Tennis and ice skating lessons are given by professional instructors; activities may vary depending on the group's size and interests. Fee for all activities: $40. Extended care is available before and after on most days for an additional fee. Registration is accepted online at www.ParkPass.org or in person at the Cabin John Ice Rink when the Play Days are scheduled.  The following are available days/times: Monday, December 28, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92553 Tuesday, December 29, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92554 Wednesday, December 30, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92555 Monday, January 18, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92556 Monday, January 25, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92557 Monday, February 15, 9 am-5 pm: ParkPASS #92599   COMMUNITY GARDENS PROGRAM UNDERWAY   With Councilmember Valerie Ervin’s office, we’ve started a new community garden in Montgomery Parks this spring at Sligo Mill Overlook. For an annual fee, area residents are able to use the garden to grow vegetables, herbs and flowers, beautify the neighborhood, form friendships with and learn from other community gardeners, and more. Montgomery Parks is actively working to expand this community garden program for Spring 2010. Please contact the community gardens staff via email at: MCP-CommunityGardens@MontgomeryParks.org  or on 301-650-2635 for more information about current or proposed locations.   METRO DEVELOPING GUIDELINES TO IMPROVE BUS STOPS THROUGHOUT REGION   Metro planners are in the process of developing guidelines for Metrobus stop design and placement in an effort to improve the overall customer experience and make sure that common elements like accessibility, customer information and physical design are incorporated into all new or relocated bus stops.  For more information go to:  http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4143 MONTGOMERY COUNTY RIDE ON NOW OFFERS GOOGLE TRIP PLANNER   The Montgomery County Ride On bus system is now offering new, online trip planning tools using Google Maps to make it even easier for commuters to plan a trip on Ride On from home, work or on the go. Google Maps now includes Ride On transit route and schedule information.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6042   RAINFOREST ROLLS UP TO TRAVILAH ES   If students can’t visit the rainforest, then bring the rainforest to the students. The “Rolling Rainforest” exhibit recently visited Travilah Elementary School to help students learn about the importance of the rainforest ecosystem. The inside of the 53-foot trailer recreates the sights, sounds, and smells of the plants and animals in a rainforest. The exhibit is a program of the Living Classrooms Foundation of the National Capital Region.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/   METRORAIL TO OPEN AT 6 A.M. THIS SUNDAY FOR THE FANNIE MAE FOUNDATION HELP FOR THE HOMELESS WALKATHON   This Saturday, Nov. 21, the Metrorail system will open one hour early, at 6 am, to accommodate the crowds expected to attend the 22nd Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon, which begins at 9 am.  For more information go to:  http://www.wmata.com/about_metro/news/PressReleaseDetail.cfm?ReleaseID=4142   LEGGETT URGES COUNTY COUNCIL TO PASS CODE ENFORCEMENT LEGISLATION; EXECUTIVE AIMS TO PROTECT QUALITY OF LIFE AND PUBLIC SAFETY   Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett today urged members of the County Council to enact the remaining three code enforcement measures that he proposed last spring. Leggett transmitted four measures that were introduced on May 5 that recommended changes to existing law to aggressively tackle a broad range of code enforcement issues that will improve neighborhood quality of life.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6045   TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE MEETING   The Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board’s Transportation Committee will meet on Tuesday, November 24 at 8:30 am at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, 2nd Floor Conference Room.  The topic this month is Bike Stations.  Bethesda resident Richard Hoye will lead a discussion on the possibility of locating a bike station at the Medical Center Metro Station.   PLEASE COME TO THE BETHESDA-CHEVY CHASE RESCUE SQUAD FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE AND WREATH NEEDS!   The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad will be selling Christmas trees beginning Friday, November 27 at its station, 5020 Battery Lane (at Old Georgetown Road), Bethesda. Prices start at $35 for trees and $15 for wreaths. Profits are used to fund the operations of the Rescue Squad. Buy your Christmas tree at the Rescue Squad and support a great cause!   For more information go to: http://bccrs.org/news/ChristmasTrees2009.html   COUNTY AND STATE AGENCIES TAKE LEGAL ACTION AGAINST USED CAR DEALERSHIP; OTHER CONSUMERS URGED TO COME FORWARD   The Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) and the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) have collaborated to take legal action against the owner of Rockville Auto Sales, Behzad Samya, after both agencies received numerous complaints from consumers who purchased used vehicles but did not receive good titles or registrations to the vehicles within the timeframe required by law.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6046   FIRE & CARBON MONOXIDE RISKS DURING COLD WEATHER   Winter months in particular are the peak time for house fires and carbon monoxide poisonings, with most incidents due to improperly ventilated or malfunctioning heating sources.  Families can better protect themselves by having working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of the home and in sleeping areas.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/frs-safe/resources/citizens/heating.asp MOVE IT! PROGRAM   What to do when you are involved in a motor vehicle accident.  For more information go to:  http://chart.maryland.gov/moveit/moveit.asp   NATIONAL CAPITAL FARMS   The National Capital Farms (NCF) Web site is the public communication and membership venue for the Metropolitan Washington Regional Agricultural Workgroup and supported by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Department of Environmental Programs through grant funding from the Prince Charitable Trusts and MARPAT Foundation, Inc.  To search for local foods and services go to:  http://www.nationalcapitalfarms.org/   MONTGOMERY COLLEGE’S SUSAN BONTEMS NAMED MARYLAND PROFESSOR OF THE YEAR   Montgomery College Professor Susan Bontems has been named the 2009 Maryland Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, a national foundation dedicated to supporting teaching, and the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), the largest international association of education institutions.  For more information go to:  http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=14908   TWO MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES OFFER NEW VIDEO PHONE SERVICE    In order to provide deaf and hard of hearing library customers with an additional means of communicating with hearing individuals, Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) has announced the installation of a new video phone service at the Rockville and Germantown branches. To celebrate the new service, Rockville Library will hold a Video Relay Service Grand Opening on Saturday, December 5, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Germantown Library will host a Video Relay Service Open House on Sunday, December 6 from 1 to 3 p.m.  To request ADA program accommodations, at least five days in advance, for more information about the VRS or to schedule a demonstration of the equipment at either branch during library hours, contact: Library Services to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Community at Rockville Library at drcinfo@montgomerycountymd.gov, voice  # 240-777-0001 or TTY # 240-777-0902.    LEGGETT LAUNCHES PEDESTRIAN SAFETY PROMOTION TEAMS ALONG PINEY BRANCH ROAD CORRIDOR   Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett today announced the launch of pedestrian safety promotion teams that will intercept pedestrians who are engaged in risky behaviors and provide them with information about safe walking practices. The safety promotion teams are comprised of bi-lingual staff from CASA de Maryland, Inc. who will work several days a week between Thanksgiving and Christmas, distributing information on safe walking, driving and biking in both English and Spanish. For more information about the County’s pedestrian safety efforts, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/walk.   REOCURRING DISTRACTION THEFT SCHEMES TARGET SENIOR CITIZENS   Montgomery County Police want to remind senior citizens and their families that there are specific distraction-type thefts which continue to occur not only in Montgomery County, but throughout the metropolitan area, and typically target senior citizens. For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Police/News/NA_details.asp?NaID=5118   FREE LEGAL ADVICE CLINICS   The Montgomery County Bar Foundation Pro Bono Program, in partnership with Eastern Montgomery Regional Services, provides free Legal Advice Consultations for low income residents on the first and second Thursdays of each month from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. The upcoming dates for the legal clinic are December 3rd and 10th. A client intake must be completed before 6:00 pm.  For more  information, call the Pro Bono Program Monday through Thursday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (301) 424-7651 or (301) 424-7652 or (301) 424-7633.  Clinics are held at the Eastern Montgomery Regional Center, 3300 Briggs Chaney Road, Silver Spring.  For directions call 240-777-8400.   WHEELCHAIR TENNIS FRIDAY NIGHTS AT WHEATON INDOOR TENNIS   Wheaton Indoor Tennis is excited to offer Wheelchair Tennis on Friday nights! USTA Wheelchair Tennis continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most challenging of all wheelchair sports.  Every Friday night from 8-11 pm, court/s will be reserved especially for wheelchair tennis play. Special Introductory Offer: From now through the end of the year, Friday Night Wheelchair Tennis court time is FREE for players in wheelchairs (ages18 and up). Registration is required go to:  http://www.parkpass.org/Activities/ActivitiesDetails.asp?ProcessWait=N&aid=40296&From=fas   PUBLIC HEARING ON DRAFT FIRE-RESCUE MASTER PLAN UPDATE   A Public Hearing concerning the draft “Update of the Fire, Rescue, Emergency Medical Services, and Community Risk Reduction Master Plan” (“Master Plan Update) will be hosted by Montgomery County Fire Chief Richard R. Bowers on Monday, November 30 at 7 pm in the Lobby Auditorium of the Executive Office Building, 101 Monroe Street, Rockville. Public parking is available on the lower level of the nearby County Office Building Parking Garage located at Monroe Street and East Jefferson Street.   MONTGOMERY COUNTY’S FLEET SERVICES WINS SECOND PLACE FOR ITS GREEN FLEET   The Montgomery County Department of General Services, Division of Fleet Management Services, recently won second place for the 2009 Government Green Fleet Award, a national competition open to all federal, state and local government fleets in North America. The recognition is awarded to fleets that meet a comprehensive set of environmentally focused evaluation criteria as judged by all the U.S. Department of Energy’s “Clean Cities” program coordinators.   For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6017   MONTGOMERY COUNTY FIRE AND RESCUE   Our latest innovative way to reach out to the community:  http://screenr.com/D0B  or you can also view this on our YouTube site:  http://www.youtube.com/user/MCFRSPubEd#p/f/0/TvGUETLl_vs  Let us know what you think, email:  william.delaney@montgomerycountymd.gov   CANDLE SAFETY TIPS   The Holidays are fast approaching and candles are in demand. See and hear a quick presentation on Candle Safety.  Click on the following link:  http://screenr.com/k4B   WINTER SESSION REGISTRATION   The Montgomery County Recreation Department has an exciting menu of programs, activities, and classes waiting for you!  Registration for the Winter Session programs begins Monday, November 16th.  Download the most current guide here:   http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/content/rec/currentguide.pdf    ROCKVILLE ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION AWARDS   The City of Rockville's Human Rights Commission is accepting nominations for its Martin Luther King Jr. Youth Award and F. Michael Taff Award. Nominations are due Monday, Nov. 30.  For more information go to:  http://www.rockvillemd.gov/news/2009/10-october/10-29-09b.html    GILCHRIST CENTER FALL BROCHURE   The Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity has published its program of Fall events for the months of September, October, and December. Class offerings include English Conversation, Support Groups in Spanish, Basic Computer for Absolute Beginners, and many more. All classes are completely free of charge unless noted. For a complete list of the programs offered, click here.   TUESDAY MORNING ENGLISH   Go practice your ENGLISH through conversation and some grammar on Tuesday mornings from 10 to 11:30 am at the Wheaton Library, 11701 Georgia Ave.; Wheaton, MD 20902. Drop-ins welcome! FREE course. Call 240-777-0678 for more information.

NEW BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS OPPORTUNITIES

County Executive Isiah Leggett is committed to representation on all of the County’s boards, committees, and commissions that is reflective of, and responsive to, our County’s residents.  Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides a valuable service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns, and viewpoints are presented. Currently, there is a valuable opportunity to serve on the following: Noise Control Advisory Board Department of Permitting Services Advisory Committee The deadline for application is December 11. Please share this notice with anyone who may be interested. You may access vacancy announcements for boards, committees, and commissions through the following link. http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/pr_list.asp For more information visit http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/exec/vacancies/PR_list.asp or Contact Beth Gochrach at 240-777-2528.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES IN THE COMMUNITY

COMPUTER SAVVY SENIOR VOLUNTEERS WANTED   The JCA (Jewish Council for the Aging) has JCA Senior Tech Centers teaching seniors 50+ the use of the computer.  Senior volunteers are needed to teach, coach and assist at all of our centers.  If you enjoy computers and want to sharpen your skills and meet other “senior computer whiz kids,” this is the place for you. The classes taught include: basic introduction, word-processing, graphics, desktop publicizing, photography, internet, e-mail, and much more. The JCA Senior Tech Centers are located in Maryland at Asbury Methodist Village, Gaithersburg, MD, the Bethesda Vital Living Center on Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, MD and B’nai Shalom of Olney in Olney, MD.  With a new center opening at Holiday Park (3950 Ferrara Drive, Silver Spring, MD) in March 2010.  For additional information contact Dana Hirsch at 240-395-0916 or email dhirsch@accessjca.org   TEACH THE PARENT, REACH THE CHILD   Rockville, MD – English for Daily Living, a classroom program for parents of children in the Montgomery County Public Schools, is seeking volunteer teachers and assistant teachers for spring classes. Classes are held on weekdays, usually in the evenings, at schools in Silver Spring and Gaithersburg. Lead Teachers should have classroom teaching experience, experience teaching adults for whom English is a second language, enthusiasm for working with adult learners, and be available to teach eight 2-hour weekly classes. Assistant Teachers should have an interest in working with adults for whom English is a second language and be available to assist during eight 2-hour weekly classes. For more information, please contact Jayne Klein at the Literacy Council of Montgomery County, 301-610-0030 or email jayne@literacycouncilmcmd.org.   HELP BOOST A CHILD’S SKILLS AND SELF-ESTEEM!    Interages, Inc., a nonprofit in Montgomery County, needs volunteers (ages 50+) to tutor and mentor children at public elementary, middle, and high schools (including Bethesda/Chevy Chase HS). In 1-2 hours/week, you can make a real difference in the life of a student. Volunteers work in a group setting, matched with an individual child, to provide friendship, encouragement, and help with reading, language, geography skills, and cultural activities. Training, all materials, on-site staff support provided. Contact Sara Cartmill at 301-949-3551, X or Cartmill@interagesmd.org or visit us at www.interagesmd.org.   THE WELLNESS COMMUNITY - GREATER WASHINGTON DC SEEKS VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH HEALTH FAIRS AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH EVENTS.            Help them represent The Wellness Community by attending health fairs and community events throughout the year. Your time can make a difference educating our community about our free programs of emotional support, education and hope for people living with cancer and their loved ones. As a volunteer you will distribute literature and talk about their free programs. Good communication skills are helpful. Training will be provided. Visit www.thewellnesscommunity.org/ or contact Luisa Carneiro at 301-493-5002 - email twcdc@thewellnesscommunity.org.   A WIDER CIRCLE   Please consider giving some time. You can work in the office or warehouse, work at a project site, or help with their marketing and fundraising efforts. They also have one paid position (paying a modest stipend) to help manage this transition. You can also donate to their new Capital Campaign. Contributions can be made online at www.awidercircle.org (a good chance to see their new website). To learn more or to volunteer, please reply here, give them a call at the office 301-608-3504 or email volunteer@awidercircle.org.   MONTGOMERY COUNTY'S COMMISSION FOR WOMEN COUNSELING AND CAREER CENTER   Use your skills, learn new ones, and help other women! Greatest need is for information and referral specialists, including those fluent in Spanish. Free parking & close to Rockville Metro. Visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cfw or contact Lynn Barclay at 240-777-8328 or email to lynn.barclay@montgomerycountymd.gov.

JOBS OPPORTUNITIES IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Below are selected employment opportunities in Montgomery County Government, private and nonprofit sectors. You can see all job postings below. Apply for the job that interests your career goals. To see all Montgomery County's job postings, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/careers. Contact Joe Heiney-Gonzalez at 240-777-5070 or joe-heiney-gonzalez@montgomerycountymd.gov. You can also go to the various organization's website for more information about the positions listed.   LEDC SEEKS OUTREACH/TRAINING MANAGER.

Please Note:  Effective July 1, 2008 all job applications must be submitted online. Paper resumes will not be accepted.

To see all Montgomery County's job postings, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/careers. Contact Joe Heiney-Gonzalez, Special Assistant to the Director, at 240-777-5070 or by email at joe.heiney-gonzalez@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Pass this on and connect us with other community members!

If you have any questions or comments, contact us by email or postal mail:
Montgomery County Government, Office of Public Information, 101 Monroe Street, 4th Floor, Rockville, MD 20850.