Office of Community Partnerships E-Bulletin - February 12, 2010

[Howard Hartman]

 

 

Office of Community Partnerships E-Bulletin

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett's Office of Community Partnerships

OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE ON COMMITTEE FOR ETHNIC AFFAIRS   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:   Committee for Ethnic Affairs    The deadline for application is March 2, 2010. 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.    2010 LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL   The Lunar New Year Festival is a joint collaboration between CCACC and Lakeforest Mall. The purpose of this event is to promote Chinese culture, history, and customs to local communities, while celebrating the beginning of the Year of the Tiger. We also aim to enhance mutual cultural understanding through this event, which has been one of the objectives of CCACC. The event activities last two weeks, from February 8 to February 21, with a special exhibition, decorations throughout the Mall, performances, workshops, and demonstrations during the weekends. This year’s exhibition theme is “Confucius - The Great Teacher & Philosopher.” This display is located in a store on the second floor near Sears.  Other displays include a photo show, Chinese calligraphy and paintings, flower arrangements, and “penjing” (Bonsai).   The opening ceremony will be held on February 13 at 12 p.m. Performances and demonstrations will be on February 13, 14, 20, and 21, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The closing ceremony will be on February 21 at 5:00 p.m.   FILLING OUT THE 2010 CENSUS FORM   Thursday, February 18 at 2 p.m. In this webinar Bridgette Rongitsch of the Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network will be joined by Terri Ann Lowenthal of the Census Project to discuss filling out the ten short questions that appear on the official Census Questionnaire.  Bridgette and Terri Ann will also discuss best strategies for reaching clients and constituents with effective messaging about the 2010 Census. Sign up for "Filling out the 2010 Census Form" now!

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

BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAMS AT LIBRARY BRANCHES   Charlotte Blake Alston, master storyteller, narrator and singer, will share traditional and contemporary stories from the African and African American oral and cultural traditions. She will bring her unique talents and knowledge of cultural lore to four MCPL branches in programs geared for various age groups. Her solo performances are often enhanced with traditional instruments.   February 23 – “Come Tell with Me! Stories for three- to five-year olds. 10:30 a.m. Long Branch Library, 8800 Garland Ave., Silver Spring. Call 240-777-0910. February 23 – “Tell the Stories So That They May Know” program for adults. 7 p.m. Germantown Library, 19840 Century Blvd.  Call 240-777-0110. February 24 – “Come Tell with Me!” Stories for three- to five-year olds. 10:30 a.m. Chevy Chase Library, 8005 Connecticut Ave.  Call 240-773-9590. February 24 - “Let My Stories Tell You Who I Am.” Stories for all ages. 7 p.m.  Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Rd.  Call 240-773-9420. Other programs include: February 27 – The Black Hall of Fame Show, an interactive program about contemporary and historic figures in African American culture. Presented by John Taylor, a.k.a. The Kinderman, three-time Emmy Award winning host and co-producer of ABC, Channel 2’s “The Kinderman Show.”  For ages six to 10. Bethesda Library, 7400 Arlington Rd.  Call 240-777-0970.   CRISIS IN HAITI: IMPACT, NEED, AND GIVING OPPORTUNITIES    Join us as we examine the situation in Haiti both before and after the recent earthquake. Topics include the earthquake's immediate and long-term impact, the effects on the Washington region's Haitian community, and advice on charitable giving to aid the people of Haiti. The informative panel discussion will be moderated by Yves Dayiti from WPFW. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited, so be sure to register by February 12. Please forward this invitation to your colleagues! February 18, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. at the Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation, 1250 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC.   THE TREE AND GARDEN COMMITTEE OF THE GLEN ECHO HEIGHTS CITIZENS ASSOCIATION   All neighbors are invited who live close to and appreciate the Potomac River to join them on February 24 for a presentation by Mary Travaglini, Potomac Gorge Habitat Restoration Manager at the Nature Conservancy.  The presentation will begin at 7pm at Washington Waldorf School at 4800 Sangamore Road.  For more information, please visit www.glenechoheights.com or call (301) 229-3469.    ATTEND A TOWN HALL MEETING WITH CONGRESSMAN CHRIS VAN HOLLEN ON FEBRUARY 22 AT MONTGOMERY COLLEGE   Rep. Chris Van Hollen (MD-08) will convene a town hall meeting for residents of the Eighth Congressional District. The Congressman will report to residents about the activities of the 111th Congress and the important issues facing the nation.  For more information go to:  http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=16615   BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING MOVED TO FEB. 17   Due to weather conditions, the Board of Education has postponed its Feb. 9 meeting to Wednesday, Feb. 17. The board will vote on the Superintendent’s proposed FY2011 operating budget at this meeting.   UPCOMING FREE EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES IN THE CITY OF GAITHERSBURG   Preschool Songs and Stories Tuesdays (except holidays), 11 – 11:45 a.m. Creative music and stories for children ages 3 to 5 with guardian. Free Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6394 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn   Over the River and Through the Woods by Joe DiPietro.  A Rockville Little Theatre Production March 5 – 21, Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. To what lengths will 4 Italian-American grandparents to keep their grandson from leaving New York? $13 residents / $15 nonresidents Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6394 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn   Arts & Crafts Show at Kentlands Mansion Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 12, 13 & 14, time TBA Free Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6425 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/kentlandsmansion   10th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, presented in partnership with the Harp & Shamrock Society Saturday, March 13, 10 a.m. Celtic dancers, floats, bagpipe bands, equestrian units and much more. Free admission Washingtonian Center, Grand Corner Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6350 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/stpatricks   The Little Mermaid, an American Family Theatre Production Sunday, March 14 Performances at 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. Gaithersburg High School, 314 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD Free.  Preregistration required and donation of non-perishable food items requested. 301-258-6350 www.gaithersburgmd.gov Indoor Flea Market Saturday, March 20, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Free Admission, vendor spaces available for a nominal fee Montgomery County Agricultural Center, 16 Chestnut St., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6350 www.gaithersburgmd.gov   Spring Bridal Showcase at Kentlands Mansion Sunday, March 21, Noon – 4 p.m. Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD See how easy it can be to plan the wedding of your dreams. $5 301-258-6425 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/kentlandsmansion   Music on the Move Friday, March 26, Time TBA A joint concert program between the Arts Barn and Kentlands mansion Admission TBD Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd., and the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6394 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn   “The Comedy and Mystery Society” Saturday, March 27, 8 p.m. Astounding magic and sleight of hand combined with interactive theatre and hilarious fun! $12 residents / $15 nonresidents Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6394 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn                      School’s Out for the Arts Featuring Jessie and James Tuesday, March 30, 1 p.m. $8 residents / $10 nonresidents Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 301-258-6394 www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn   ARTS ON THE BLOCK PRESENTS VALENTINE OPEN HOUSE   Join Arts on the Block on Saturday, February 13 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. for Valentine card making, puppet making, face painting, studio tours, and much more. The Open house will be held at 11501 Georgia Ave, Suite 104, Wheaton, MD.  For more information visit www.artsontheblock.com or call 240-645-0730.   HOARDING AND CLUTTERING WORKSHOP   The Gaithersburg Hoarding Task Force and the Behavior Therapy Center of Greater Washington will present a workshop regarding hoarding and cluttering on Wednesday, February 24, 2010 from 7 to 9 p.m.  It will be held at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg.  The workshop is open to all members of the community at a cost of $20 per person. To reserve a seat for the workshop please call the City of Gaithersburg Community Services Division at 301-258-6395 x2.  For information on the Task Force and hoarding related questions in Gaithersburg, please contact Stephen Rainone in the Neighborhood Services Division at 301-258-6340.    MISSION: EARTH - AN EXHIBITION AT THE NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION   The event will be held on Feb. 6-13, 2010, 11 am - 4 pm, weekdays and Saturdays (Closed Sunday, Feb. 7).  Enter the world of Earth observation science and technology during 'Mission: Earth,' a special exhibition at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in Silver Spring, MD. 'Mission: Earth' will feature a vast array of tools NOAA uses to study land, sea and sky, along with hands-on exhibits, guest speakers, video presentations, and more! NOAA scientists and other experts will be on hand to talk about the work they do every day to take the pulse of the planet and support public safety, safe navigation, and commerce. Located in the NOAA Science Center at 1301 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD, admission is free.  Public parking is available, near the Silver Spring Metro Station, photo ID required for adults. Visit www.preserveamerica.noaa.gov or call 301-713-7615 for more information.   PETER AND THE WOLF - FEBRUARY 3-MARCH 21, 2010  The familiar musical story is expanded into a lively theatrical version, with bold movement and original songs. We meet the clever Peter and his friends, the starving Cat and the bickering Duck and Bird. Together they scheme to capture the Wolf and make the forest a safer place. But Wolf is a wily trickster and will stop at nothing to capture his prey! There are mad chases, mysterious appearances, high comedy, suspense and, of course, the brilliant music.  For more information go to:  https://tickets.imaginationstage.org/public/show_events_list.asp   THE TREE & GARDEN COMMITTEE OF THE GLEN ECHO HEIGHTS CITIZENS ASSOCIATION   Invites all neighbors who live close to and appreciate the Potomac River to join them on February 24, 2010 for a presentation by Mary Travaglini, Potomac Gorge Habitat Restoration Manager at the Nature Conservancy.  The presentation will begin at 7pm at Washington Waldorf School at 4800 Sangamore Road.  For more information, please visit www.glenechoheights.com or call (301) 229-3469.      MID-ATLANTA JAZZ FESTIVAL – FEBRUARY 19-21   Mid Atlantic Jazz Festival ignites the return of that big fun at the same great venue – the Hilton Executive Meeting Center in Rockville, MD for three days of good vibes, great socializing, and opportunities to hear the music as it was (classic sounds in the tradition), as it is (the current scene), and as it will be (the Next Generation)!  For more information go to:  http://www.midatlanticjazzfestival.org/   MONTGOMERY COUNTY COMMUNITY HOME AND REMODELING EXPO   Being held at The Conference Center at the Universities at Shady Grove, 9630 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, MD on February 13-14, 2010.  Cost:  Adults $5.00, kids under 12 free, active and retired military $4.00, Tickets on sale at the door day of show.  For more information go to:  http://www.delmarvahomeshows.com/annapolisinfo1.htm    B-CC RESCUE SQUAD FEBRUARY 14TH EVENT RESCHEDULED FOR MARCH 28   The Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad Alumni Association will hold a shrimp and oyster feast on Sunday, March 28, from 1-5 pm, in the Anastasi Room at the Rescue Squad, 5020 Battery Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814. Tickets cost $40 per person for all-you-can-eat steamed shrimp, fresh chucked and fried oysters, potato salad, apple sauce, sliced ham, baked beans, rolls, beer, and soft drinks.  Tickets must be purchased in advance.  Buy your tickets now to reserve your space! For tickets or further information, call 301- 977-6634, visit www.bccrs.org  or send an email to info@bccrs.org    DISCOVER CREEK SPRING CAMPS   We are offering two Discovery Creek Camps beginning in March: One at The Stables at Glen Echo Park for 4 to 6 year olds and one at The Historic Schoolhouse for to 7 to 10 year olds.  For more information contact: Anne Zuk, 202-488-0627 x236 or via email azuk@livingclassroomsdc.org   ADULT LEARNERS WORKSHOP FEBRUARY 18: WHY DO BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE?   Why do Bad Things Happen to Good People? This topic will be explored by counselors then followed with a presentation on ways to manage the emotional repercussions that sometime surface when dealing with trials and tribulations on Thursday, February 18 from 5-7 pm in Room 133, Humanities Building, MC-Rockville Campus.  For more information go to:  http://insidemc.montgomerycollege.edu/showStory.php?id=16409   ROCKVILLE CELEBRATES LUNAR NEW YEAR   The Rockville Mayor and Council and the City's Asian Pacific American Task Force will host a Lunar New Year celebration on Saturday, Feb. 20. The event, which celebrates family and the reaffirmation of family bonds in the Asian community, will be held at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre and Social Hall, 603 Edmonston Drive. This event is free and open to the public.  For more information go to:  http://www.rockvillemd.gov/news/2010/02-february/02-03-10a.html   TWO FREE PERFORMANCES OF “LITTLE MERMAID”   The City of Gaithersburg and American Family Theater present the Little Mermaid, live on stage at Gaithersburg High School, 314 South Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD. Two performances will be held on Sunday, March 14, one at 2:30 p.m. and one at 4:30 p.m. Tickets to this enchanting show are FREE but must be picked up in advance. Resident tickets are available starting on Monday, March 1.  Nonresident tickets will be available on Monday, March 8.  Visit the Activity Center at Bohrer Park Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or send a self addressed stamped envelope to: Little Mermaid, Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 506 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877.   Those attending are asked to bring a donation of non-perishable food items, which will be distributed to local food banks and those less fortunate. Last year, 20 overflowing tubs of food were collected at this program, with hopes of even more this year. For more information please call the City of Gaithersburg at 301-258-6350 or visit our website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.   DEP SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON STATE OF COUNTY STREAMS   The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will host two regional public meetings to discuss the state of the county’s streams.  The public will be able to provide input on watershed-specific restoration plans that address stream pollution and meet new stormwater permit requirements. Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting that addresses the watershed plans in their region.   The first “State of the Streams” meeting will focus on restoration approaches for the Lower Monocacy, Potomac River tributaries (including Muddy and Watts Branch) and Seneca Creek watersheds. It will be held on Saturday, February 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Seneca Valley High School, 19401 Crystal Rock Drive, Germantown. The second meeting will be held on Saturday, March 6 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton to discuss plans for the Anacostia and Patuxent rivers and the Cabin John and Rock Creek watersheds. For more information, go to http://montgomerycountymd.gov/dep and click on “Stormwater Permit (MS4)” or contact Watershed Outreach Planner Ryan Zerbe at 240-777-7744 or at ryan.zerbe@montgomerycountymd.gov.   MÚSICA, FIESTA, & FUNDRAISING   The Embassy of Spain and the Board of Directors of Coral Cantigas invite you to join them in celebrating Coral Cantigas’s 19th season. Private Concert & Reception featuring members of Coral Cantigas in a private performance, directed by Diana V. Sáez, founder and artistic director. Private tour of the American University Museum guided by Jack Rasmussen, Director and Curator. Exquisite Spanish hors d'œuvres, tapas, and wines. Saturday, February 13, from 7-9 p.m. at the American University Museum, Katzen Arts Center, Rotunda, 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC. Business Attire. Space is limited. $85 Person - $150 Couple. RSVP by February 11 at 301-230-1361 or www.cantigas.org.   ALZHEIMER’S ACTION SUMMIT   One of the most moving remembrance ceremonies you will ever attend, the Candlelight Tribute Rally at the Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Action Summit helps inspire dedicated Alzheimer advocates to continue their efforts in the fight against this disease. Held at the Lincoln Memorial in our nation's capital, the rally is a unique opportunity to honor loved ones with Alzheimer's and those who care for them. Learn more about the Alzheimer's Action Summit and Candlelight Tribute Rally.   SKATE YOUR HEART OUT FOR HAITI” FUNDRAISER   To help raise funds for the earthquake victims of Haiti, the City of Gaithersburg Skate Park will host “Skate Your Heart Out for Haiti.”  For just $10, skaters can use the park from Noon until sunset on Saturday, February 13.  Additional donations are highly encouraged and greatly appreciated.  All proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross International Relief Fund-Haiti.  Skaters must have a valid 2010 waiver signed before participating.   The Skate Park is located behind the Activity Center at Bohrer Park, 510 S Frederick Avenue.  For questions or to make a donation prior to this event, please contact Maura Dinwiddie at 301-258-6350 x168.   YOUNG ARTIST AWARD WINNERS PRESENTED IN CONCERT   The winners of the 2010 Young Artist Awards will be presented in two concerts at the Arts Barn.  Sponsored by the City of Gaithersburg and the Kentlands Community Foundation, the Young Artist Award is a juried competition providing talented musicians ages 12 to 18 with an enriching artistic experience.  This year there will be two concerts featuring the winners of the contest on Saturday, February 27.  The first will take place at 2 p.m., and the second, followed by the presentation of awards, will take place at 7:30 p.m.  The Arts Barn is located at 311 Kent Square Road.   Tickets for the concert are $8 for residents and $10 for nonresidents and may be purchased in advance by calling the Arts Barn at 301-258-6394 or online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov using RecXpress. BROOKSIDE NATURE CENTER HOSTS FREE, POPULAR MAPLE SUGAR FESTIVAL FEBRUARY 20 & 21   Brookside Nature Center will host the exceptionally popular Maple Sugar Festival on Saturday, February 20 and Sunday, February 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days at the nature center, 1400 Glenallan Avenue in Wheaton.  For more information go to:  http://mncppc.typepad.com/news/2010/01/brookside-nature-center-hosts-free-popular-maple-sugar-festival-february-20-21.html#more   MONTGOMERY COUNTY’S OFFICE OF HUMAN RIGHTS CO-SPONSORS CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORIC BUS TOUR   The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights, in collaboration with Montgomery County Public Libraries, the African American Employees Association, the Lincoln Park Historical Foundation and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, is again this year hosting a civil rights historic bus tour that retraces the steps of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights heroes. The tour will travel to Atlanta, GA; Selma, Tuskegee, Montgomery and Birmingham, AL; and Memphis, TN. The bus tour leaves Rockville on March 29 and returns on April 3.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6205    MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES CELEBRATES ASIAN LUNAR NEW YEAR 2010   Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) will welcome the Year of the Tiger with a variety of programs celebrating the New Lunar Year 4708 during February and March.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6213   ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL SMALL BUSINESS DAY ON FEB. 18   The Architect of the Capitol (AOC) is hosting an event for small business owners at the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) designed to provide information about doing business with the AOC and the CVC. The CVC is looking for products that are made in the U.S. and manufactured with U.S.-made materials such as educational toys, jewelry, and souvenir apparel whose product themes are focused on the Capitol for its two Gift Shops.  For more information go to:  http://www.aoc.gov/business/Small-Business-Industry-Day.cfm   SAVE THE DATE - PUZZLE-A-THON COMMUNITY-WIDE FUNDRAISER   Because of the impact of the economy on state, local and personal budgets, the Collaboration Council is partnering with other non-profits in the county by having the First Annual Collaborative Puzzle-A-Thon: "Putting the Pieces Together to Help the Montgomery County Community," to be held on March 20th and March 21st. The money raised will benefit the Collaboration Council, a 501(c) 3 organization, and all participating nonprofits especially those who assist families with children who have behavioral, emotional and physical disabilities.   Because of the tremendous needs, a portion of the proceeds will also go to specifically support the Collaboration Council's Emergency Care Fund which is often the last hope to prevent eviction and job loss for parents who have the challenge of caring for their children with disabilities. Please contact Jill Lyons at 301-354-0172 or 301-466-5285 to learn more about how you can be a part of this county-wide event whether as a host site, volunteer or with a financial or in-kind donation. By working together, we can raise awareness about the issues that face so many in our community. We hope you will join us in this county-wide event.   2010 CONTEMPORARY SOCIAL ISSUES SEMINAR SERIES SET TO BEGIN   The 2010 Contemporary Social Issues Seminar Series is set to begin in February. Social scientists and researchers at the forefront of their study areas will be on hand to present fact-driven, research-based findings in several areas of health services and communication. Practitioners in the field will bring the findings to life, with examples from real-world local settings.   The seminars are sponsored by the Rockville Institute and the Universities at Shady Grove. Each seminar, which is free and open to the public, is held in the Camille Kendall Academic Center, Building III, Room 3241, 9636 Gudelsky Drive, Rockville, Maryland, 20850.   For more information go to:  https://www.rockvilleinstitute.org/news/012110.asp   NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM PRESENTS THE 2010 “HERITAGE FAMILY DAY” SERIES   How did the Apollo 11 Command Module travel to the moon and back? How did the Wright brothers dare fly that flimsy-looking contraption? What does the cosmic dust inside comets look like? What makes kites soar in the air? Every year the National Air and Space Museum hosts’ educational family days where experts, who were inspired by their own sense of wonder, share their achievements in aviation and spaceflight.  For more information go to:  http://www.nasm.si.edu/events/pressroom/releaseDetail.cfm?releaseID=236   RE-IMAGINING COMMUNITY SPACE Wednesday, March 3, 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Washington DC/Silver Spring, 8777 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD.  Join hundreds of community members at the fourth annual Silver Spring Action - an opportunity to network across lines of differences, envision a thriving community, and take steps for positive change! This year, in collaboration and partnership with the Silver Spring Regional Center and Silver Sprnig Town Center, Inc. invite you to come together to re-impagine community space in Silver Spring and spark action around the creative use of space in downtown and beyond.  NETWORK with members of our diverse community, LEARN and build AWARENESS about issues in your neighborhoods and institutions, and FIND others to act with you for positive change to experience the power of community-based action. To learn more about the event, or to RSVP, please contact Noelle Haile or call 301-495-3336.     COMMUNITY MEETING TO INFORM DOWNTOWN WHEATON SECTOR PLAN PROCESS   Those interested in the future of downtown Wheaton should attend a Thursday, February 25, forum hosted by Montgomery County planners. The forum will start at 7 p.m. at the Gilchrist Center located at 11319 Elkin Street in Wheaton Maryland. It will provide an opportunity for the community to take a second and more in-depth look at the recommendations for the proposed Wheaton Sector Plan before they are presented to the Planning Board later this spring. The community will be expected to offer their comments and suggestions about the proposed plan recommendations. Learn more about the Wheaton plan at www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/wheaton/index.shtm.   SEVENTH ANNUAL LIBRARY LOVERS MONTH   Montgomery County Public Libraries will host special programs and activities throughout February to celebrate the seventh annual Library Lovers Month, designed to raise awareness -- to residents and elected officials -- of the wide-ranging role that public libraries play in the life of the community. Sponsored by Friends of the Library, Montgomery County, the month-long celebration of public libraries will kick off with an appearance by children’s entertainer and author Barry Louis Polisar on Saturday, February 13, at 11 a.m. at the Silver Spring Library, 8901 Colesville Rd. The program is free and suitable for families with children at least five years old.  Polisar will perform inspirational songs, tell amusing stories and recite original poetry. He is a four-time Parent Choice award winner who has written songs for the popular children’s television show, “Sesame Street.” In addition to Polisar’s lively performance, children will be treated to a Mad Hatter’s tea party and are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite story book character costume.  Crafts, snacks and prizes will be provided while supplies last.   PRO BONO FINANCIAL CLINIC   Having problems with money? Want to save for the future? Let the financial experts help you! At the Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity, 11319 Elkin Street, Wheaton MD 20902. They can help you...solve financial problems, obtain a car loan, plan your financial future, save for education, improve your credit rating, buy your first home, pay off your credit cards, and save money on financial services. Wednesday, February 17, 6-8 pm Sunday, February 21, 2-4 pm Wednesday, March 17, 6-8 pm Sunday, March 21, 2-4 pm First-come, first-served, until full. Please call 240-777-4940 for more information.   YOUTH AND WISDOM WORKSHOP   The Plum Gar Women’s Support Group is sponsoring a five week workshop for “at risk” youth (high school age), to be held every Saturday in February from 10am-1pm at the Upcounty Regional Services Center (12900 Middlebrook Road, Germantown, MD  20874).  This program teaches our youth the importance of making positive choices and fostering positive relationships with “mature” adults in our community. Various activities and information will be shared with both groups; with opportunities for them to share with each other.  The final session will be held March 6th at Covenant Village in Germantown, Md. If you know of an at risk youth who may benefit from this workshop or for more information, please contact Karen Brown @ at lumgarsupportgroup@gmail.com %20">plumgarsupportgroup@gmail.com    FORECLOSURE INTERVENTION AND DEFAULT COUNSELING CERTIFICATION, PART I    February 22 - 26, 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Eastern Montgomery Regional Services Center, 3300 Briggs Chaney Road, Silver Spring MD 20904. The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is bringing NeighborWork's 5-day HO345 Foreclosure Intervention and Default Counseling Certification, Part I as a place-based training in Maryland. Lloyd London and Ed Sparkman are scheduled to be the trainers.  Registration deadline Febraury 8th and passing score on pre-test required!   Passing an online pre-test is a pre-requisite for this course. This advanced level five-day course is designed for counselors with one or more years of experience providing one-on-one foreclosure intervention and default counseling. This rigorous, in-depth course covers critical elements of the default and foreclosure process as well as loss mitigation options for prime and sub prime loans. Participants will engage in exercises and utilize case studies which will sharpen their negotiating skills with servicers and improve their counseling methods with clients. There are two training requirements for certification. This course is Part I REQUIREMENT: You must pass the prerequisite test with a score of 75% or better before enrolling in this course.  If you have any questions, please contact Ann Ford at Info@TheNetworkMaryland.org or 410-288-3905 (fax 410-288-3906).   COMMUNITY ACTION’S FREE “VITA” TAX ASSISTANCE STARTS   JANUARY 25, THROUGH APRIL 15!   The Montgomery County Department of Health & Human Services’ Community Action Agency's free VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program is a volunteer-supported service helping community members who cannot afford professional tax assistance. Individuals with low-to-moderate incomes—under $49,000 per year- receive FREE help to complete and electronically file their taxes.  All services are provided by trained, IRS-certified VITA volunteers and staff through a partnership among the IRS, the City of Gaithersburg’s Bank On initiative and Family Services, the City of Rockville, and the Community Action Agency.  For help with federal and state taxes, and to schedule an appointment, please call:    Gaithersburg* (Mondays) Family Services 610 East Diamond Avenue Gaithersburg, MD 20877 Mondays, 5 pm - 9 pm  effective Jan. 25th     301.258.6395 -- press option “6” *limited Saturday appointments at this site.   “Tess” (Tuesdays) The Takoma East Silver Spring Center 8513 Piney Branch Road Silver Spring, MD 20901 Tuesdays, 5 pm – 9 pm   effective Jan. 26th     301.565.7675   Courthouse Square (Wednesdays) City of Rockville Division of Community Services 30 Courthouse Square, Suite 100 Rockville, MD 20850 Wednesdays, 5 pm – 9 pm eff. Jan. 27th     240.314.8310   Progress Place (Thursdays) Community Action Agency* Silver Spring, MD 20910 Thursdays, 5 pm – 9 pm   eff. Jan. 28th       301.565.7451 *limited Saturday appointments at this site.     What to bring? Be ready:  IRS requirements help prevent fraud and identity theft. The IRS does not allow VITA sites to prepare taxes without required documentation. ·   Government Issued ID (i.e. Driver’s License, Passport, Age of Majority Card) ·   Social Security Card or Individual Tax Identification Notices (ITIN) for each member of your family. (If you do not have ITINs, we will help you obtain one). ·   All W-2 Forms, 1098s, 1099s, and other documents re: income ·   If filing jointly, your spouse must be present ·   Copy of prior year tax return (if applicable)    ·   1099 Forms (if applicable) ·   Statement of annual child care expenses prepared by provider and their tax ID (Social Security or Employer ID number) ·   For direct deposit, proof of an existing bank account, including routing numbers (such as checkbook, or a bank statement, or we can help you open a savings account).   HAVE SPECIAL NEEDS? The IRS has a special exception granted to Community Action Agency to assist elderly, homeless and disabled customers in Montgomery County with tax preparation, working with case managers. If interpretation services, accommodations, or assistance to obtain ID or social security documentation is required, please alert the scheduler when making the appointment.   SILENT AUCTION FOR HAITI   A silent auction in support for Haiti tops the calendar of upcoming events at ArtSpring, Silver Spring’s unique community art store and gallery. The Silent Auction for Haiti runs from Saturday, February 6–Saturday, February 20, with a special selection of handcrafted items by local artisans available for bid by the public, along with gift certificates and other items from downtown merchants. All proceeds will support Partners in Health (PIH), chosen by the World Health Organization as coordinators for the badly stricken University Hospital in Port-au-Prince.     GILCHRIST CENTER WINTER PROGRAMS   The Gilchrist Center for Cultural Diversity is delighted to offer a variety of programs this winter. Please note that all the Gilchrist Center programs are free of charge, except Spanish101/102 and Basic Computer classes. For more information, click here.      SENIOR TECH   Computer and exercise classes for basic to advanced computer skills. Jewish Council for the Aging, Bethesda Vital Living Center, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, 2nd floor for ages 65+. Cost is $10-$65, for more information call 240-395-0915.   GENERATIONS ON-LINE TRAINING   JCA SCSEP has begun a free internet and email training program, Generations on Line (GoL).  GoL is free to anyone in Montgomery County, age 55 and older, who has a low income and is in need of learning internet and email.  GoL is a web-based tutorial program developed for older learners to learn at their own pace.  The training is enhanced by our trained Peer Coaches who help the older learners each step of the way.  The training can range from a four week period to as long as it takes for a person to learn. Not more than four people receive coaching at one time. The average learner takes four weeks at two sessions per week to master the program; however, more time is available as needed.   Training is held Monday through Friday mornings, and practice times are available during the afternoon hours.  There are now two training locations – at the JCA office in the Bethesda Vital Living Center at 4805 Edgemoor Lane, 2nd floor, and our newest location at the Adventist Community Services of Greater Washington at 501 Sligo Avenue in Silver Spring.  If you have clients, friends or relatives who would like to receive this free training, have them call Linda Reaves at 240.395.0918 to reserve their training time.    YOUTH JOB FAIR   On March 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be a youth job fair at Montgomery College Rockville Campus, 51 Mannakee St. Rockville, MD 20850. Come meet potential employers, gain valuable interview experience and explore positions and career fields of interest. For more information visit http://www.letsgetitstartedyouthjobfair.com/   AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ART FESTIVAL   The first ever Amnesty International Human Rights Art Festival will be held in the downtown Silver Spring Arts District from April 23-25.  This event will involve more than 40 Silver Spring venues hosting more than 200 artists from 40 different nations.  Events include a theater festival, film festival, dance festival, music festival, visual art exhibits, performance art, installations, workshops, a sculpture garden, human rights happy hours and teas and other happenings throughout the downtown Silver Spring Arts and Entertainment District.  For more information, please visit www.humanrightsartfestival.com, or contact Producer Tom Block at humanrightsartfestival@gmail.com.   GBTLA GOLF TOURNAMENT AND FUNDRAISER   Continental breakfast, morning tournament and lunch to benefit The George B. Thomas, Sr. Learning Academy. Providing over 3,600 Montgomery County students with tutoring and mentoring services in Saturday School and After-school programs. Friday, May 14 (Rain date: May 21), Hampshire Greens Golf Course, Silver Spring, MD. $150 per player in advance of tournament, $175 day registration. Registration materials will be mailed mid-winter. For more information, call the GBTLA Executive Office at 301-320-6545 or go to www.gbtlearningacademy.org.   SAVE THE DATE!  6TH ANNUAL DANCE BETHESDA   Dance Bethesda, a weekend celebrating dance, will feature a professional dance concert at Round House Theatre on Saturday, February 27th at 8 p.m. Six performers have been selected for the concert: ClancyWorks Dance Co., Dr. Janaki Rangarajan, Jason Garcia Ignacio, Karen Reedy Dance, Tappers with Attitude and Washington Reflections Dance Co.  Tickets are now available at www.bethesda.org, $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.  Remaining tickets will also be available at the door.  For more information go to:  http://www.bethesda.org/arts/Dance-Bethesda/concert.htm   20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE MONTGOMERY COUNTY COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS   Wednesday, March 3 at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, starting at 6 p.m. For the past twenty years, the Montgomery County Coalition for the Homeless (MCCH) has solved housing crises and strived to end homelessness with the support of people like you. They will commemorate our 20th Anniversary at Celebrating Partnerships 2010 and hope you will join them. The Residents Take Over The Gallery.       THE CHILDREN’S WATER FESTIVAL, SAVE THE DATE, MAY 5 & 6, 2010!   The Children's Water Festival is an outdoor festival designed to provide students with hands-on learning about water issues, the environment, and the impact our day-to-day habits have on the availability and quality of water -- life's most precious resource.  For more information go to:  https://eservices.wsscwater.com/wps/portal/WaterFestival   MARYLAND WINTER SENIOR OLYMPICS TO HOST WINTER GAMES   The Maryland Senior Olympics (MSO) is partnering with The Gardens Ice House and the National Capital Curling Center in Laurel to present the 2010 Winter Olympics games, on Saturday, February 13.  The Ice House is located at the Fairland Regional Park, 13800 Old Gunpowder Road. Events include figure skating, ice hockey and curling, and are open to participants age 50 and over.  Hockey players can register as individuals and teams will be chosen to insure that the teams are evenly matched. For information on curling, contact Ann Drummie at secretary@curldc.org; for ice hockey, contact John Buchleitner at Jbuch@verizon.net; and for figure skating, contact Linda Monney at 410-672-7013 or icecoach1@aol.com. For more information, call Barbara Buchleitner at the Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities, 410-222-4257, ext. 226.  Visit the website at www.thegardensicehouse.com, for information, directions and online registration.

COMMUNITY BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES

13TH ANNUAL INTERFAITH WORKS’ COUNTY COMPANIES CARING BREAKFAST   Friday, March 12th, from 8 - 9:30 a.m. at the Bethesda Marriott Hotel, 5151 Pooks Hill Road, Bethesda. RSVP by February 22nd. Register on-line or Download a registration form at www.iworksmc.org. For more information contact Barbara Garlock, bgarlock@iworksmc.org, 301.315.1096. Complimentary Parking Provided. Tables accommodate 9 guests. Please send names of your guests to: jkirby@iworksmc.org.   MARYLAND NONPROFIT WEBINARS   Maryland Nonprofits has released its schedule of webinars for March. To view and register for them, please visit: http://www.marylandnonprofits.org/html/training/OnlineTraining.asp   ENERGY PURCHASING FORUM FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY NONPROFITS   Sponsored by Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County in partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, Friday, February 26, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. at JSSA, Rockville Fallsgrove Office, 200 Wood Hill Road, Rockville, MD 20850. Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts & Humanities Council are exploring options to assist Montgomery County nonprofits in identifying and purchasing clean electricity from competitive energy suppliers at a savings compared to standard offer service.    We invite you to learn about energy supply options and the services that suppliers, brokers and marketers can provide. Assuming there is sufficient interest, Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts & Humanities Council will facilitate an informal aggregation to pool purchases.  Participating nonprofits may realize a savings of 10 - 15% while also shifting from brown to green energy.  Forum is free but you need to register, go to:  http://mocoenergyforum226.eventbrite.com/    CALL FOR NOMINATIONS: THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY'S 2010 PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR AWARD   Now through April 1,The Community Foundation for Montgomery County (CFMC), is accepting nominations for the 2010 Montgomery County Philanthropist of the Year Award. The recipient will be honored at CFMC's annual "Celebration of Giving" event in the fall. Click HERE or visit www.thecommunityfoundationmc.org to learn more and download the nomination form.   NONPROFITS & TAX CREDITS   President Obama's proposed Small Business Jobs and Wages Tax Cut will provide a $5,000 tax credit against payroll taxes for every new worker they (including nonprofits) employ in 2010, according to the Chronicle for Philanthropy.   Independent Sector has talking points and a sample letter to encourage your Senator and Representative to enact this legislation.  Separately, the President's budget also called for an increase for National Service, according to the Chronicle for Philanthropy.)   COUNTDOWN TO THE 2010 CENSUS   Thursday, February 25 at 2 p.m.  In this webinar NVEN National Director Bridgette Rongitsch will be joined by Terri Ann Lowenthal of the Census Project to discuss the best strategies for reaching clients and constituents with effective messaging about the 2010 Census. Sign up for "Countdown to the 2010 Census" now!   COMMISSION FOR WOMEN PUBLISHES GUIDE TO SURVIVING LEGAL PROCESS OF SEPARATION, DIVORCE; COPIES AVAILABLE IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES   The Montgomery County Commission for Women has published a new book, “A Woman’s Guide to Surviving the Legal Process of Separation and Divorce in Maryland.” This book is for individuals facing divorce and provides information about the legal system, their rights, and responsibilities.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/apps/News/press/PR_details.asp?PrID=6232   BACK OFFICE IN A BOX   The Center for Nonprofit Advancement  has introduced human resources support to its Back Office in a Box (BOB) program. BOB is a suite of high-quality administrative services made available at a reasonable cost to Center member nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Washington region including the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia and Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland. The newest service offering, BOB Human Resources, is designed to help nonprofit leaders maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of their organizations. BOB HR was developed in response to the needs of the region’s nonprofit sector and the Center’s nearly 800 member organizations. Visit the Center's Web site to learn more.   ENERGY PURCHASING FORUM FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY NONPROFITS Sponsored by Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County in partnership with the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection, Friday, February 26, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. at JSSA, Rockville Fallsgrove Office, 200 Wood Hill Road, Rockville, MD 20850. Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts & Humanities Council are exploring options to assist Montgomery County nonprofits in identifying and purchasing clean electricity from competitive energy suppliers at a savings compared to standard offer service.  We invite you to learn about energy supply options and the services that suppliers, brokers and marketers can provide. Assuming there is sufficient interest, Nonprofit Montgomery and the Arts & Humanities Council will facilitate an informal aggregation to pool purchases.  Participating nonprofits may realize a savings of 10 - 15% while also shifting from brown to green energy. RSVP today!    GREENING YOUR SMALL BUSINESS   On Tuesday, Feb. 16, noon - 1:30 pm there will be a lunchtime discussion with Jennifer Kaplan, author of "Greening Your Small Business," and Nick Keller from Pepco's Commercial Energy Efficiency Incentive Programs.  For more information go to: http://bethesdagreen.org/Calendar/tabid/178/ctl/Details/Mid/850/ItemID/89/Default.aspx?selecteddate=2/16/2010 CATALYTIC CHANGE: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE RACIAL JUSTICE GRANTMAKING ASSESSMENT   Join Applied Research Center (ARC) and the Philanthropic Initiative for Racial Equity (PRE) in a webinar on Tuesday, February 23, from 3 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. EST as they share key findings from Catalytic Change: Lessons Learned from the Racial Justice Grantmaking Assessment. Speakers will share strategies to determine and refine the ability of your own grantmaking to achieve systemic and racially just solutions. The webinar will also feature the heads of the two foundations who piloted the assessment, offering practical insights from boards, staff, and grantee partners that you can build upon in your work. We will mix presentation and interactive dialogue, so come prepared with your own questions and examples to facilitate an active discussion. We have reached out to a diverse set of funding networks nationally, recognizing that concerns of racial equity touch upon all geographic and issue-based networks. Download a free copy of the report for more information about the assessment. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER IRS REMINDS TAX-EXEMPT ORGANIZATIONS OF ALL SIZES TO FILE THE FORM 990 ON TIME TO PRESERVE THEIR TAX EXEMPT STATUS   The IRS would like to remind tax-exempt organizations to make sure they file their annual information form on time. In 2010 the tax-exempt status of any non-profit that has not filed the required form in the last three years will be revoked. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 requires that non-profit organizations that do not file a required information form for three consecutive years automatically lose their Federal tax-exempt status. This requirement has been in effect since the beginning of 2007.   Small non-profit organizations with annual receipts of $25,000 or less can file an electronic notice, Form 990-N (e-Postcard).  They will need only a few basic pieces of information to file:  the organization’s employer identification number, its tax year, legal name and mailing address, any other names used, an Internet address if one exists, the name and address of a principal officer and a statement confirming the organization's annual gross receipts are normally $25,000 or less.   Tax-exempt organizations with annual receipts above $25,000 are required to file the Form 990 or the Form 990-EZ annually. Private foundations file Form 990-PF. Churches and integrated auxiliaries of churches are not required to file Form 990-series returns or notices. Form 990-series returns and e-Postcards, are due by the 15th day of the 5th month after an organization’s tax year ends. For more information, see the (address of new Web page) page on IRS.gov/eo.   SET IT & SAVE!   For a limited time only, Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection is offering eligible County residents Free Programmable Thermostats and Free Installation.  Programmable thermostats can help save money by reducing energy use in the home.  For more information go to Set It & Save http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/deptmpl.asp?url=/content/dep/Energy/homes.asp#SetItSave   HOW TO RESEARCH PRIVATE GRANTS VIA MARYLAND'S 10 COOPERATING COLLECTIONS   The amount of reference information about grants and grant opportunities has never been greater and the Foundation Center, working with their local Cooperating Collections, continues to be the national leader in helping match community needs with available resources. Patricia Pasqual, director, The Foundation Center of Washington, D.C., will lead this webinar about how to research foundation grant opportunities and how to best use the resources available at The Foundation Center's 10 Maryland Cooperating Collections. Two of the Cooperating Collection directors, Andrea Snyder, Enoch Pratt Library in Baltimore, and Erica Joseph, Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, also will be presenting on how the cooperating collections through Maryland can assist both individuals and non-profits in finding lucrative grant opportunities. To register, click here.   PRO BONO PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING SERVICES OPPORTUNITY   Through March 1, C.Fox Communications – a Silver Spring, MD-based pr and marketing agency – will be accepting applications to its annual Inspired Thought Award.  The IT Award is worth up to $20,000 of pro bono pr and marketing services including: Strategy, Writing/Messaging, Media Relations, Branding and Social Media. Go to www.cfoxcommunications.com for application and guidelines. There is no fee to apply. FREE EMERGING NONPROFIT SERIES   The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Washington, in partnership with Maryland Nonprofits and EagleBank, is sponsoring a FREE Emerging Nonprofit Series designed to provide leaders of emerging nonprofits with a basic foundation for your organization’s operations. Each session will last 2 hours and include a topic-specific workshop and extensive question and answer session with Maryland Nonprofits’ staff and representatives from various Montgomery County nonprofits. We are aiming for participants from more than 30 nonprofits to join us at this free program. The remaining sessions will cover the following topics: March 4- Revenue & Fundraising, Securing the income needed to sustain your organization   Agencies that attend all three sessions will receive a certificate of completion signed by the County Executive. Nonprofits can sign up for this three-part workshop at www.jcouncil.org/workshops.   MARYLAND HOME AND COMMUNITY CARE FOUNDATION CAREGIVER INITIATIVE   The Maryland Home and Community Care Foundation has announced a special grant initiative for caregiver training and caregiver support. The Foundation has issued a request for proposals for projects focusing on informal caregiver training, or support for caregivers of individuals, or a combination of training and support. Eligible applicants include the following: Community organizations such as aging and long-term care service providers Area Agencies on Aging or other local governmental and quasi-governmental agencies Faith-based organizations 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit organizations excluding colleges, universities, hospitals or hospital-based health systems or a related entity that is not a supporting organization under IRS 509 (a) (1), professional associations, or for-profit entities. Grant amounts will range from $20,000 to $40,000 and are expected to be awarded in June 2010.  Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until 2/28/10. Click here for a copy of the request for proposals. Feel free to share this information anyone else who may be interested.        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.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MONTGOMERY COUNTY SAFE SPEED PROGRAM UTILIZES PORTABLE CAMERAS   The Montgomery County Police Traffic Division, which administers the department’s automated traffic enforcement programs, has expanded the safe speed program with the deployment of four portable camera units. The department continues to utilize 6 mobile speed cameras in Safe Speed vans and 60 fixed location cameras at 39 locations.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Police/News/NA_details.asp?NaID=5291   MCRD   Spring session registration begins February 16th!  Registration for swim lessons begins at 6:30 am on February 17th.  For more information go to:  http://recweb.montgomerycountymd.gov/Start/Start.asp?SCheck=519176160&SDT=40214.498912037   ROCKVILLE RESIDENT STEVE MATHENY NAMED 'GOODSPORT'   The City of Rockville has named resident Steve Matheny its recipient of the Mid-Atlantic Recreation and Parks' Sports Alliance (MRPSA) GoodSports Award. Matheny will be recognized at the annual MRPSA recognition ceremony Monday, Feb. 15, at the Maryland State House in Annapolis. The event includes recognition of awards recipients during the evening's General Assembly session as well as a reception.   Matheny, coach of the Rockville Raptors wrestling team, started wrestling when he was 6 years old. He began his coaching career in 1976 as a gymnastics assistant with Montgomery County Public Schools and joined the Raptors as an assistant technical coach in 1995. Matheny's philosophy of individual attention and positive reinforcement, and his commitment to teaching the basics, makes him popular among his wrestlers and a successful coach. In addition to his work with the Raptors, Matheny has volunteered as a football, soccer, t-ball and baseball coach with the City of Rockville's Recreation Department.   The State of Maryland House of Delegates will honor Matheny on Monday, Feb. 15, during its session at 8 pm.  Prior to being honored; there will be a reception for the award recipients and their families.  For more information contact Lou Clark at 240-314-8653.   ADULT LITERACY STUDENT TO RECEIVE NATIONAL AWARD    Gaithersburg resident Milton Whitley will receive the Ruth J. Colvin and Frank C. Laubach Award for Student Excellence from ProLiteracy, the largest volunteer-based adult literacy organization in the United States.  Whitley will accept the award at the ProLiteracy/COABE conference in Chicago on March 18, 2010.   He was nominated by the Literacy Council of Montgomery County (LCMC).  To read Milton’s story, click here.   APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR HABITAT HOMEOWNERSHIP   Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County, MD (HFH-MC) has announced that they are accepting applications for homeownership opportunities in the Clarksburg area of Montgomery County.  HFH-MC will build a total of six two-level piggyback townhomes and provide approved applicants with an affordable long-term mortgage.    HFH-MC will hold information sessions for interested applicants at various locations in upper Montgomery County.  Information sessions are currently scheduled for Thursday, February 18th, Saturday, February 20th, Wednesday, March 3rd, and Saturday, March 6th. Specific time and locations can be found at www.habitat-mc.org/homeownership or 301-990-0014 x26. Requirements for Habitat homeownership include a demonstrated housing need, ability to pay a monthly mortgage, legal permanent U.S. residency, and a willingness to partner with Habitat throughout the homeownership process.  Space is limited at the information session so all interested applicants must RSVP and reserve a space.  Interested applicants can RSVP at www.habitat-mc.org/homeownership or at 301-990-0014 x21 or x18 or x15.   LEGGETT AND LOCAL COMMUNITY LEADERS TO UNVEIL STRATEGY TO COUNT LATINOS IN 2010 CENSUS   With four weeks to go before Census 2010 questionnaires are mailed, County Executive Isiah Leggett and Latino leaders will announce their collaborative strategy to enhance participation of Latinos in the Census count on Wednesday, February 17 at 10 a.m. at the Mid-County Regional Services Center, 2424 Reedie Drive in Wheaton. Those living in areas of Montgomery County that have been identified as hard to count will be especially targeted. Leggett will be joined by members of the Latino Complete Count Committee of Montgomery, community and religious leaders, Latino business leaders and staff from the County Executive’s Office of Community Partnerships.   FIRE AND RESCUE EMPLOYMENT UPDATE   Montgomery County Fire and Rescue is not accepting applications at this time. Please continue to check this website for future hiring information.  Due to the current fiscal climate, MCFRS has cancelled the written exam that was tentatively rescheduled for the summer of 2009.  If you have previously applied for the position of Firefighter/Rescuer I (Recruit), Requisition #3005, with the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS), you will be required to reapply during the next open enrollment period.  As of now, we do not know when this will occur.   Thank you for your patience and understanding during these challenging times.  We hope that you will seek employment with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service in the future.  We apologize for the delay and appreciate your continued patience.  If you have specific questions regarding the recruiting process please e-mail us at Fire.Recruiting@montgomerycountymd.gov, or leave a message on our recruiting line at 240-773-8923. MONTGOMERY COUNCIL UNANIMOUSLY APPROVES BILL ESTABLISHING HIRING PREFERENCE FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES   The Montgomery County Council today unanimously approved Bill 46-09 establishing a “hiring preference” for the initial appointment of a person with a disability to a vacant County merit system position if the candidate is among the highest rated candidates in a normal competitive process.  For more information go to:  http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/Apps/Council/PressRelease/PR_details.asp?PrID=6225    CITY OF GAITHERSBURG NAMES 2009 EMPLOYEE, TEAM OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS   At the City of Gaithersburg’s annual employee recognition breakfast on January 21, 2010, Mayor Sidney Katz, Council Members Jud Ashman, Henry Marraffa, Mike Sesma, and Ryan Spiegel, and City Manager Angel Jones presented the 2009 City of Gaithersburg Carl Webb Employee of the Year Award to Alex Wright and the Team of the Year Award to the Olde Towne Youth Center Technology Team.  They were selected from a pool of quarterly winners reviewed by the City’s Employee Recognition Committee, made up of peers from each department. For more information on the awards program and the individuals recognized, please contact the Gaithersburg City Manager’s Office at 301-258-6310 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov.   COUNTY SOLICITING REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL PROJECT ON NEW SILVER SPRING LIBRARY SITE   Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett has announced that the Department of General Services and the Department of Housing and Community Affairs are submitting a Request for Qualifications for a developer to work with the County on a mixed-income residential development to be built next to the new Silver Spring Library. The plan calls for up to 120 apartment units to be located on Bonifant St. off of Fenton St. Thirty per cent of the units will be moderately priced, 30 per cent will be offered at workforce housing rates and the remaining 40 per cent will be at market rate.  The future Purple Line light rail station also will be located adjacent to the site.There is a two-step request for qualifications. Information for the first step is due by March 26 at 2 p.m. To view or download the RFQ, go to:  www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/DGS/DIR/SSLRFQ.asp.   MONTGOMERY COUNTY PRESS OFFICE CHANGES PHONE NUMBER TO 240-777-6507   Montgomery County government’s press office has a new direct telephone number to make its staff more accessible to the media.  The new number is 240-777-6507.   Public Information Officers are available to offer story ideas, provide information about specific issues, programs and services, and facilitate access to the County Executive, department and agency heads and other County staff.     SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER   Summer will be here before you know it, so check out the variety of camps available through the City of Rockville, from nature to sports, to pottery and drama.  For more information go to:  http://www.rockvillemd.gov/recreation/guide/camp10/index.html   RESOURCES FOR HAITIANS   Our friends at Montgomery College have compiled a very basic list of resources for Haitians in Montgomery County who might have earthquake-related needs.  Click here to access the Resources for Haitians document Click here to access a document concerning how to file for Temporary Protected Status (TPS)    EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES FOR HAITIAN CHILDREN AND FAMILIES   You can also find educational resources on helping Haitian children and families cope with the earthquake through a great resource website offered by Colorin Colorado: http://www.colorincolorado.org/article/35420#distance   MASS JOB RECRUITMENT EVENT   A recruitment effort held today between the County’s Division of Workforce Services (DWS) in the Department of Economic Development (DED) and The Home Depot has resulted in part-time jobs for more than 100 local workers. The positions, at the Gaithersburg and Germantown Home Depot stores, were for sales associates, cashiers, freight team members and lot attendants. According to The Home Depot, each job seeker who is placed by The Home Depot in one of the positions will have an opportunity to become a full-time employee. The DWS works to ensure that Montgomery County has a well-prepared, educated, trained and adaptable workforce to meet the current and future needs of business, and that the County workforce has the tools and resources to successfully compete in a global economy. Through MontgomeryWorks, the DWS facilitates recruitment fairs for County businesses as well as provides targeted employment training, job listings and workforce readiness seminars for local job seekers. More information on DWS is available at www.SMARTmontgomery.com.

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: Agricultural Preservation Advisory Board Committee for Ethnic Affairs Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board The deadline for application is March 2, 2010. 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

MONTGOMERY COUNTY VOLUNTEER CENTER WEBSITE LISTS DONATION SITES TO HELP HAITI EARTHQUAKE SURVIVORS   Montgomery County’s Volunteer Center in the Office of the County Executive has updated its website to include a page that lists places where individuals can donate to help survivors of the Haiti earthquake. Anyone interested in making a donation can find information on the Volunteer Center’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/volunteer. Following is a list of organizations accepting donations: Catholic Relief Services – www.crs.org American Jewish World Service – www.ajws.org United States Fund for UNICEF – www.unicefusa.org Interaction Coalition – www.interaction.org/crisis-list/earthquake-haiti American Red Cross – www.RedCross.org Doctors Without Borders – www.doctorswithoutborders.org International Medical Corps – www.imcworldwide.org For other information on how to help earthquake victims, go to the Department of State’s website at www.state.gov. COUNTY SEEKS VOLUNTEERS TO WORK WITH VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT   Volunteers are needed to assist sexual assault victims and their families through the Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services. Interviews are currently being conducted for the March 2010 training session. Volunteers provide 24-hour supportive crisis intervention and companion services at Montgomery County hospitals and police stations for victims of rape and sexual assault. Bi-lingual volunteers are encouraged to apply. To receive more information or to arrange an interview, call the Montgomery County Victim Assistance and Sexual Assault Program at 240-777-1355 or go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/vasap. SEEKING ADULT LITERACY TUTORS   The Literacy Council of Montgomery County has over 200 adult students on its waiting list for tutors. Become a volunteer literacy tutor and teach an adult to read, write or speak English. No foreign language skills are necessary. Tutors work one-on-one or with small groups, and typically meet with students in libraries or community centers at mutually convenient times. A tutor orientation will be held at the Rockville Library on January 26 from 10:30 am - noon and on March 3 from 7:30 - 9 pm.  Rockville Library is located at 21 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850; registration is required. Contact 301-610-0030 or info@literacycouncilmcmd.org

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.   JOB CLUB MEMO   CENSUS JOBS   Montgomery County's Local Census Office in Rockville is open for business! Census employees are now staffing an office in Rockville doing the important operational work to ensure next year's enumeration goes smoothly. One responsibility they have is recruiting qualified temporary workers to staff Questionnaire Assistance Centers and be Census takers.   Members of your community are welcome to apply. They can contact the office to find out when and where they can take the test that will be used to see if they qualify for these and other positions. They can do so by calling the Rockville Local Census recruitment desk directly: (240) 780-3950.  For similar opportunities in other counties or to share with friends around the country, use 1-866-861-2010.  You can also learn more by visiting: http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/.  Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to reply. Priority will be given to United States citizens.

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.

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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.