NOTEWORTHY NOTES

Ride On Moving from Paper Passes to Electronic SmarTrip Card

Ride On passengers are now able to load monthly passes onto their SmarTrip� cards. The $45 monthly pass provides customers unlimited rides on Ride On buses for an entire calendar month.  Monthly passes can be loaded onto SmarTrip� cards either in person or online.  When adding value online, customers have the option to purchase monthly passes automatically.  The monthly pass value is then added automatically to a purchaser�s card seven days before the end of each month.

Customers who prefer to add the monthly pass value to a SmarTrip� card in person, may do so at transit stores in Silver Spring and Friendship Heights, at County offices in downtown Rockville, or at various retail stores.

Paper passes, including the YouthCruiserPass, are being phased out.  Passengers can still pay fares with cash, but the Ride On monthly pass saves more than 40% over paying cash fares on regular Ride On routes.

For information, go to the Division of Transit Services' website or call 311 (TTY, call 301-251-4850) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

New Policy Changes at Public Libraries = More Access to More Materials

To help ensure that Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) customers have increased access to the materials/items they need from the system�s collection, four policy changes take effect on Sunday, February 17.

The changes will enable customers to:

1. increase the number of checkouts on their account from 50 items to 100 items;
2. place 30 holds, rather than 15; 
3. check out 20 DVDs (increased from 10); and
4. renew items three times (rather than twice), as long as there is not another customer waiting for the item.

Help Others Learn to Read � Be an Adult Literacy Volunteer 

The Literacy Council of Montgomery County will hold an information session for volunteers interested in helping adults learn to read, write, or speak English on Wednesday, February 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Tuesday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rockville Memorial Library.

Once volunteers have completed the information session, they can select a two-part training session that fits their schedules.

Call 301-610-0030, email info@literacycouncilmcmd.org or visit www.literacycouncilmcmd.org.

Polar Bear Swim for Individuals with Disabilties 



Individuals with disabilities and their families and friends can have fun together on Saturday, March 2 at the Polar Bear Family Swimming Pool Party at the Germantown Indoor Swim Center n the South Germantown Recreational Park, 18000 Central Park Circle, Boyds, beginning at 7:30 p.m.  Pick up time is 9:30 p.m.

Swim a few laps, streak down the water slides, shoot baskets or relax in the leisure pool/hot tub. $4 per person; $6 for non-residents, bring swimsuit, towel and backpack to store your belongings while swimming.

Anyone attending must register � under course #344096 -- and come in swim attire.

For more information, call 240-777-6870.

�Virtual Tours� of Montgomery County Sites from Heritage Montgomery  

It may be cold and blustery outside � so fire up your computer and enjoy a little trip around the County from the comfort of your own home, courtesy of  Heritage Montgomery.

Short �travelogues� -- video clips running from two to six minutes -- were originally part of the Paths to the Present series, which ran on County Cable Montgomery.  The first five installments feature:

The C&O Canal and Monocacy
Aqueduct in Dickerson 

The C&O Canal and Monocacy Aqueduct in Dickerson � view scenes along the canal; hear about construction of the magnificent aqueduct completed in 1833.

White�s Ferry in Poolesville

White�s Ferry in Poolesville � learn about the cable ferry that has transported vehicles and walk-on passengers across the Potomac since 1828.

Madison House in Brookeville

Madison House in Brookeville � discover the now beautifully restored 1790 home that provided refuge for President James Madison when he fled the British attack on the White House during the War of 1812.

Clara Barton House in Glen Echo

Clara Barton House in Glen Echo � take a look at the life of the founder of the American Red Cross and her home which served as the organization�s first headquarters.

Jeb Stuart Visits Rockville

Jeb Stuart Visits Rockville � re-live General Jeb Stuart�s four-hour stop in Rockville on his way to meet General Robert E. Lee in Gettysburg in 1863.

For more information about Heritage Montgomery, visit  http://heritagemontgomery.org.

Apply for Projects that Reduce Stormwater Runoff; Higher RainScapes Rewards Rebates Available

The Department of Environmental Protection�s RainScapes Rewards program has increased its rebate limits to $2,500 for residential properties and $10,000 for institutional, homeowner association common areas and commercial properties.

Residents currently working on a project will be eligible for the higher level rebate.  Residents who have already completed a project may be eligible for the higher rebates for new projects.

Most rainfall on urban surfaces -- such as roofs, driveways, roads, parking lots and patios -- ends up as stormwater runoff, which can carry pollutants into streams and damage stream banks and habitats. RainScapes techniques include rain gardens, conservation landscapes, canopy trees, green roofs, permeable pavements, rain barrels, cisterns and dry wells that allow rainfall to soak into the ground where it can replenish groundwater and recharge streams.


Honor Roll Students Skate Free



Not only do good grades count, they can save you money, as well. Now through March 8, Honor Roll students in Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) can skate free at the Silver Spring Skating Rink at Veterans Plaza (corner of Fenton St. and Ellsworth Dr.)

Bring your MCPS report card and student ID and receive one free skating pass, with skates.

Questions? Call 301-588-1221.

Public-Private Partnership Helps Build Hope for Animals

Thanks to a public-private partnership between the County and private-sector non-profit mcpaw (Montgomery County Partners for Animal Well-Being), the new state-of-the art Animal Shelter and Adoption Center is taking shape at the intersection of Muncaster Mill and Airpark roads in Derwood.

Mcpaw, is an independent non-profit created to provide financial support for the center. Funds raised by mcpaw will provide enhanced facilities and meet future equipment needs of the Animal Services and Adoption Center.

The 49,160 square-foot Animal Services and Adoption Center is expected to open in the summer of 2013.

Learn more about the animal shelter project and the mcpaw partnership.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

The Message is Getting Around�Bring Your Bag(s) when Holiday Shopping

To help remind Montgomery County residents and shoppers to keep their reusable bags handy when visiting local retailers this holiday season -- and beyond -- the County has launched a public education campaign featuring the slogan, �Holiday Shopping? Bring Your Bag; Fight Litter.� 

Look for the ads on Ride On buses and at bus shelters and the commercial airing on cable TV.

Read more about bringing bags when holiday shopping.   

Wheaton Urban District Unveils New Logo, Website Design

The Wheaton Urban District unveiled its new logo and website design at www.wheatonmd.org, which creates a one-stop online destination for the latest news and information on downtown Wheaton. The new site improves navigation and increases focus on engaging users through social networking sites and blogs.

Read more about the Wheaton Urban District website.

County Cable Offers Improved Format for A.M. and P.M. Traffic Camera Segments

County Cable Montgomery, working with the Department of Transportation�s Transportation Management Center, now offers enhanced traffic camera coverage during the morning and evening rush hours that allows residents to check road conditions more conveniently for their commutes.

Instead of seeing just one camera at a time, you now see views from four cameras at once, with each view organized by category: interstates; major arterials west of and including MD 355; major arterials east of MD 355; and all the remaining cameras. Major traffic incidents are also listed.

This improvement means that residents can view every one of the County�s 200 cameras every four minutes.  Previously, the same viewing took more than 15 minutes.

View the new format on Montgomery County Cable directly or via their website.  Specific camera images can still be called up on the website, as well.

The Civil War in Montgomery County on Your Phone

Thanks to Heritage Montgomery (HM) and some 21st-century technology, that�s entirely possible.

Now, with a new smartphone app, �A Civil War Tour of Montgomery County, Maryland,� you can select and stream or download historic tours of Civil War sites throughout the County to use the next time you�re out exploring the area. The free app is available for both Android and iPhone users.

The app features a wide variety of unique historic locations and tells the story of local life in the 1860s. Interactive GPS maps that include your current location and all points of interest on the tours provide easy navigation. The full-color video and slideshows and compelling narrative share the history of the sites you are seeing. Contact information including websites and phone numbers for each location delivers all the information you need for each tour stop.

To download HM�s free app, visit the Android Market or App Store and search �Civil War Montgomery County.�

Fenton Street Market Hosts Holiday Marketplace

Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring will be transformed into a holiday marketplace on Saturday, December 22 (last Saturday before Christmas) � showcasing the wares of more than 75 local vendors for the convenience of shoppers. 

The market, operated by Fenton Street Market, will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn more about Fenton Street Market.

Community Use of Public Facilities Office has Moved

The Community Use of Public Facilities Office (CUPF) is now located at 255 Rockville Pike, Suite 201, Rockville MD 20850. Phone numbers will remain the same.

For directions and map, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/cupf.

Starting in December, Ride On Customers can Load Monthly Pass onto SmarTrip� Cards

Ride On passengers will be able to load monthly passes onto their SmarTrip� cards, beginning with December�s pass.  The $45 monthly pass provides customers unlimited rides on Montgomery County Ride On buses for an entire calendar month.  Paper passes are being phased out and will no longer be available after January 31, 2013.  Passengers will continue to have the option of paying fares with cash.

Monthly passes can be loaded onto SmarTrip� cards either in person or online.  When adding value online, customers have the option of purchasing monthly passes automatically.  The automatic monthly pass value is then added to a purchaser�s card seven days before the end of every month. 

The Ride On monthly pass represents a 43% savings over paying cash fares on regular Ride On routes.

Get more details.

Students Invited to Enter Literary Competition for MLK Celebration

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Commemorative Committee is seeking entries from elementary, middle and high school students in Montgomery County for its literary arts contest in observance of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Entries must be 150 words, or less, in a poetry or essay format.  Entries will be judged on understanding and appreciation of the ideals of Dr. King; clarity and originality of expression; and adherence to the 2013 theme, �HIS dream�iAct�WE change!�  The deadline for submitting entries is Friday, December 14, by 5 p.m.

Participating schools should submit a maximum of three entries per school to the MLK Essay Contest, c/o Montgomery County Office of Human Rights, 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. 

The top two winners from all entries will be invited to read their essays and receive an award presented by the County Executive and The Gazette Newspapers as part of the County-wide MLK celebration on Sunday, January 20, 2013, at 3 p.m. at the Music Center at Strathmore.

           

For more information, contact James Stowe, director of the County�s Office of Human Rights, at 240-777-8491 or email human-rights.commission@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Consumer Protection wants You to Know About...Gift Cards 

Gift cards can be the ideal gift for the person who has everything.

But, how much do you know about them? Money on a gift card cannot expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. If the expiration date listed on the card is earlier than these dates, the money can be transferred to a replacement card at no cost.

For more information about gift cards, and tips on how to purchase and use them, read the FTC�s free guide.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

Marathon Tribute to Veterans on County�s Public Cable Stations

Montgomery County�s public cable television stations on Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12 will broadcast a 13-hour marathon tribute to veterans to help in the County�s recognition of Veterans Day. The tribute will include the first-ever broadcast of extended interviews with 14 local veterans from World War II.

County Cable Montgomery (Channel 6 on Comcast and RCN, Channel 30 on Verizon) will begin broadcasting the tribute each day at 9:30 a.m. and continue to 10:30 p.m.

The marathon will open with the rebroadcast of the September 19 event in Silver Spring in which Montgomery County saluted area World War II veterans and will continue at 11:20 a.m. each day with the series of interviews with World War II veterans. The tribute will conclude with a contrast of generations as Montgomery College student Alex Cole interviews veteran Dee Paris, 97, whose World War II experiences include being a tank commander in the Battle of the Bulge.

The marathon is a cooperative production of the County�s PEG (Public-Education-Government) organization of public cable television stations.

See more details and check the viewing schedule for individual interviews.

Seminar on Legal Process of Separation and Divorce

Two seminars � one in English and one in Spanish - that focus on the legal process of separation and divorce in Montgomery County will be held on Thursday, November 15 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Rockville Memorial Library, 21 Maryland Ave.

Entitled �When a Marriage Ends:  Financial, Property and Practical Issues Both Wife and Husband Must Consider,� the programs will include topics such as: grounds for divorce; types of divorce; what to expect in court and alternatives to court; alimony; domestic violence; and child custody.

The seminar is presented by the Montgomery County Commission for Women in partnership with the Bar Association of Montgomery County, Family Law Section; the Montgomery County Women�s Bar Association; and the Montgomery County Divorce Roundtable.

The fee is $10 per seminar if pre-registering and $15 at the door. To pre-register, go to http://divorcelawseminar2.eventbrite.com/.

For more information, call 240-777-8300.


Intercounty Connector Bike and Pedestrian Path Information Available Online

Information about bicycle and pedestrian paths near the Intercounty Connector (ICC)/MD 200 is now available on the ICC's Project Website.  Maps indicating current trails and trails expected to be completed by Montgomery and Prince George�s counties at a later date are included.

The counties are still developing some segments of the bicycle/pedestrian plan.  Once completed, the ICC bicycle/pedestrian route will allow cyclists to travel from the Shady Grove Metrorail station to the Muirkirk Commuter Rail Station.

Home Savers:  A Specialized Foreclosure Prevention Program

Low- to moderate-income families in Montgomery County who are having trouble paying condo/HOA fees or seniors with reverse mortgages who are struggling to pay their property taxes should know about the Home Savers program.

Sponsored by Asian-American Homeownership Counseling, Inc., Home Savers rescues homes from foreclosure due to homeowners condo/HOA fees or property tax defaults.

See information flyer.

Residents with questions should speak with a counselor -- or sign up for an orientation session -- by calling 301-760-7636 or emailing counseling@aa-hc.org.


The Season of Giving: Volunteer Opportunities Abound

The holiday season is a time of giving and receiving.  But for many of our neighbors in Montgomery County, the need is great but the �receiving� may be sparse.  That�s why there�s no time like the present to give of your time and volunteer to help ensure that those less fortunate have a bright holiday season.

If you have a few spare moments and want to volunteer in the weeks ahead, check out the Volunteer Center website that will lead you to wide variety of opportunities for all ages and interests during the holidays�and beyond.

Volunteer. It�s time well spent.

Consumer Protection Wants You to Know about�Safely Shopping Online

With the coming of another holiday season, shopping online or by phone is a convenient way to buy gifts and never leave home.  However, the Office of Consumer Protection reminds residents that buying online is also a convenient opportunity for scammers to take advantage of consumers.

When shopping, do business only with companies you know to be legitimate.  Don�t give out personal information such as your social security number on websites.  Make sure to keep a record of your purchase, and print out the confirmation page after a sale.  Take advantage of item tracking, and be aware of the merchant�s return policy.

Learn more.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

Second Annual Homeless Resource Day

County residents experiencing homelessness are invited to participate in the second annual Homeless Resource Day on Thursday, November 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Bohrer Park Activity Center, 506 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg. 

Sponsored by Montgomery County and the City of Gaithersburg, the event will offer a wide range of resources for homeless residents.  More than 30 organizations will provide information and resources for individuals and families such as free medical screening, legal services, financial counseling, employment services, tax assistance, substance abuse and mental health counseling, and social services.

        

Free transportation will be provided from seven locations throughout the County.  Registration is not required and the event is free. 

Volunteers are needed to assist in a variety of roles.  For more information or to register as a volunteer, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HRDor call Gloria Huggins at 240-777-4565.

Recreation Department Winter Coat Drive

Montgomery County Recreation is collecting coats to support the Montgomery County Government/City of GaithersburgHomeless Resource Day.  Interfaith Works, which provides shelter, clothing and food to community members in need, is coordinating the coat drive. There is a lesser need for children�s coats, but they will also be accepted.

Gently used winter coats can be dropped off at the following Recreation facilities through November 8:

• Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sargent Shriver Aquatic Center, 5900 Executive Blvd., N. Bethesda;
• Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Dr., Wheaton;
• Jane Lawton Community Recreation Center, 4301 Willow La., Chevy Chase;
• Long Branch Community Recreation Center/Senior Center, 8700 Piney Branch Rd., Silver Spring;
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Swim Center, 1201 Jackson Rd., Silver Spring;
• Olney Indoor Swim Center, 16605 Georgia Ave., Olney;
• Potomac Community Recreation Center, 11315 Falls Rd., Potomac;
• Upper County Community Recreation Center, 8201 Emory Grove Rd., Gaithersburg; and
• Wisconsin Place Community Recreation Center, 5311 Friendship Blvd., Chevy Chase.

For more information about the Interfaith Works Coat Drive, call Christine Hong, 240-498-7727. 

For information about the Recreation Department donation sites, call Judy Stiles at 240-777-6875.  For information about the second annual Homeless Resource Day, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/HRD.

Free Presentation for Public about Affordable Care Act

The public is invited to a free discussion on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) on Monday, November 12, from 6 to 7 p.m., at the Silver Spring Civic Buildingin Downtown Silver Spring. 

           

The Department of Health and Human Services� director, Uma

Ahluwalia, will present an overview of the ACA and how it will impact Montgomery County and Maryland. A question-and-answer period will follow.

Among the questions that will be addressed are: What additional changes are authorized by the ACA?  How is Marylandpreparing for ACA implementation?  What impact will the ACA have within Montgomery County?

For more information, contact Dourakine Rosarian at 240-777-4397. To request sign

 language interpreter services or other assistance to participate in this meeting, call

Shantee Jackson at 240-777-1058 (voice), 240-777-1295 (TTY) or email

shantee.jackson@montgomerycountymd.gov  by November 8.

Help Seniors Help Themselves

The Senior Connection of Montgomery County, Inc. links older adults to services and resources so they can live as independently as possible while remaining integral members of their community.

Volunteers can help by:

• Escorting an individual or couple to the store; assisting them with reading labels, reaching items from the shelf, delivering them home and helping put them away; or
•  Shopping for someone who may not be able to go to the store.

Senior Connection volunteers are matched with a senior for regularly scheduled grocery shopping assistance and find that fitting in a weekly or bimonthly grocery shopping trip can be accomplished even with a full time job. 

To learn more and/or to download an application, visit www.seniorconnectionmc.org or contact Marcia Custer at 301-962-0820, ext.14 or email marcia.custer@seniorconnectionmc.org.

Consumer Protection Wants You to Know about�the County�s Domestic Worker Law 

Do you have a nanny�a housekeeper� or a companion for a sick or elderly family member?  If you answered �yes,� Montgomery County�s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) wants to remind you of the County�s Domestic Worker Law.    

If you employ someone as a nanny, housekeeper, cook or a companion, you may be required to offer that individual a written employment contract and abide by state wage and workers� compensation laws.  Failure to comply with the county�s law may result in a civil penalty of $1,000 for each violation.  The Domestic Worker Law applies if the worker:

•  works primarily in a Montgomery County residence
•  works at least 20 hours per week for at least a 30 day period
•  performs primarily childcare, housekeeping, cooking, cleaning or laundry-type work
•  works as a companion to a sick, convalescing, disabled, or elderly individual
• has an employer that is an individual or an employment agency

To learn more about the Domestic Worker Law, contact OCP at 240-777-3636 or visit  http://bit.ly/Domestic_Worker_Lawfor additional resources. 

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

Free Seasonal Flu Vaccinations Offered through December

The Department of Health and Human Services reminds residents that free seasonal flu vaccinations are available in the County through the end of the year and appointments may be made online.

In addition, there will be three nasal spray (FluMist) clinics for healthy Montgomery County children three to 18 years of age, by appointment, on Monday, November 5.

No preservative-free injectable vaccine will be available this year at the County clinics.

Check the schedule for remaining vaccination clinics.

Make an appointment for a vaccination.



Your Chance to Serve: Openings on County Boards, Committees, Commissions

Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns and viewpoints are presented. Applicants of diverse backgrounds, professions, gender, geography, disability and ethnicity are encouraged to apply for vacancies on the numerous  County boards, committees and commissions.

Included among the organizations with current vacancies are the:

• Cable and Communications Advisory Committee
• Community Action Board
• Mid-County Citizens Advisory Board
• Victim Services Advisory Board

The deadline for applying is November 14, 2012.

Get details about each group with current openings, plus deadlines.

An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be mailed to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe St., 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD  20850, or emailed to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses, should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.


Pilot Program Created for Financial Assistance for Use of Silver Spring Civic Building

The County has much to be proud of when it comes to the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza.  It has become one of the �go-to� destinations in downtown Silver Spring for a variety of community- and government-sponsored programs.

However, during these difficult economic times, members of the community have concerns about affordability regarding public use of the building.

To address this need, the County Executive is piloting a program during FY13 designed to provide financial assistance and increase opportunities for non-profit groups that meet the eligibility criteria.

A Review Committee will evaluate applications for the program.

Learn more about the pilot.

Consumer Protection Wants You to Know about�No More Telemarketers

No one likes getting calls from telemarketers -- persistent salespersons trying to sell you products you don�t want are something you expect to escape from once you get home, but telemarketers continue to call.

Did you know there is a way to keep telemarketers from calling you?  Visit the Office of Consumer Protection�s (OCP) A-Z Consumer Advice:  Do Not Call List for more information.

OCP is the Montgomery County agency responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws that prohibit unfair and deceptive business acts to ensure a fair marketplace for consumers and businesses. The office was established in 1971 and since then, has earned national recognition for its accomplishments.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

A Visual Preview of the World of Montgomery Festival

Get an idea of the excitement, color and flavor of the World of Montgomery Festival and see for yourself what you can expect in Wheaton on Sunday, October 21. Take a look.

Time to Give Back � Community Service Day October 27

County residents are invited to make plans now to give a few hours of their time to their community by joining family, friends, neighbors, fellow students and co-workers during Community Service Week, which kicks off on Monday, October 22 and runs through Sunday, October 28.
Service projects are posted on the Community Service Day  website. Many of the available service projects provide middle and high school students with the opportunity to earn Student Service Learning hours.
Or, you can plan an event of your own.   If your school, neighborhood association or other group already has a project in mind, make sure we know about it by filling out the Community Service Day Project Form.

Have a Hoot on Halloween and Beyond

Montgomery County Recreation is offering a number of safe and fun-filled age-appropriate Halloween alternatives for all ages during the Halloween season.  Activities range from a Haunted Forest, Magic Show and a Hoot Dance to a Fall Festival.
Check out the schedule and programs.

Health and Human Services Announces Soft Launch of New Website: Public Feedback Invited

Montgomery County�s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced the launch of its new department website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/hhs/indexnew.html.
The site has been redesigned with a fresh look, new and enhanced features, and easier and more straightforward navigation tools.

The department is seeking feedback and suggestions from users during the soft launch period and will incorporate suggestions when feasible. The official public launch of the website will take place in approximately 30 days (November 8).

Read more about the site.

Car Sharing Expands in County

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has announced a significant expansion of commercial car sharing services in the County at no cost to the County.

Car sharing provides commuters or other travelers who primarily rely on transit, car/vanpooling, biking or walking, access to a car when needed and can also save them money.  The availability of car sharing may help some residents go �car free� or provide a second car for multi-driver households that only need occasional access to a second vehicle.

Two car sharing companies, Zipcar and Hertz on Demand, were selected following a competitive bid process that allowed vendors to choose locations that best fit their service areas and the types of vehicles they offer.  Twenty-six vehicles have been made available at 13 locations in Bethesda, Silver Spring, Wheaton, Montgomery Hills and North Bethesda. 

Learn more about specific sites and check out links to additional information.

The Message for Fire Prevention Month -- �Have Two Ways Out�

October is Fire Prevention Month and fire stations around Montgomery County are hosting many educational, family-oriented activities and Open Houses throughout the month. This year�s theme focuses on the importance of fire escape planning and urges residents to develop and practice an escape plan and �Have Two Ways Out!�

All Open House events are free and will feature many exciting activities including tours of the station, fire safety activities, educational information/handouts, demonstrations of emergency equipment and much more.
See a complete list of activities planned throughout the entire month.

Advice to Consumers: Read Fine Print on Advertising Directories 

Montgomery County�s Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) urges residents to carefully read all advertisements and solicitations that may come to their homes and not be misled as to the publication�s origin.

For example, a recent issue of �Best Pick Reports�,� an advertising directory that recommends merchants and is mailed to homes, was mistakenly assumed to be a product of OCP.  This direct mail advertisement is actually published by EBSCO Research which maintains a business relationship with the merchants referenced in the directory -- in which the merchants pay the publisher for the opportunity to be included.

While the County points out that some or all of the merchants may or may not be excellent service providers, the format and use of terms such as �Independent Consumer Satisfaction Research,� may mislead some consumers.

�Finding reputable and affordable service providers such as plumbers, roofers and heating/AC contractors, can be a daunting task for consumers,� said OCP Director Eric Friedman.  �We recommend that consumers contact our office to check a merchant�s complaint history and consult guides published by non-profit research organizations such as Washington Consumer�s CHECKBOOK Magazine.�
  
For more information, call 240-777-3636.

County Honors Late Community Activist

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett recently unveiled a plaque naming Montgomery County�s CountyStat Meeting Center the �Wayne Goldstein Center for Responsible Government.�  Goldstein, a longtime civic activist and past president of the Montgomery County Civic Federation, passed away in April 2009.

CountyStat is an accountability and assessment process that reinforces the County government�s focus on results in an effort to improve performance.

�Wayne was an avid proponent of our CountyStat program,� said Leggett.  �I can honestly say that his advocacy and support for this initiative were instrumental in getting this program up and running in Montgomery County.  Naming this meeting room in his honor will remind everyone who enters this room of his tireless efforts to open the doors of County government and encourage greater public participation.�

Information about CountyStat � including meeting dates, topics and discussion materials � can be found on the Montgomery County website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/countystat.

Job Hunting Help for People Over Age 50

The tight job market of the last few years has been especially challenging for people over age 50.  The good news is that Montgomery County has excellent resources to assist residents in their search for the right job.
There are a variety of agencies and programs that provide services and support � including resume preparation, job search strategies, interview techniques and ways to identify employment opportunities.
If you are over age 50 and looking for a new job, check out these programs:

• Montgomery College Workforce Development and Continuing Education: www.montgomerycollege.edu/wdce
• Montgomery Works: www.montgomeryworks.org
• Jewish Council for the Aging Worker Training Programs: www.accessjca.org
• Jewish Social Service Agency Employment and Career Services: www.JSSA.org
• Casa de Maryland, Inc: www.casademaryland.org

Get more information on various senior issues, including employment at Senior Site.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

WWII Veterans Tribute Viewing Schedule

Montgomery County�s public cable television stations are re-broadcasting the complete ceremonies at which the County honored more than 175 veterans of World War II on Sept. 19 at the Silver Spring Civic Building. The ceremonies were originally broadcast live over the channels of the PEG (public /education / government) stations.

Veterans ranging in age from 86 to 105 and having experiences from some of the most historic events of the past century were among the 500 people who attended Montgomery County Honors World War II Veterans. The event is believed to have been the largest Washington-area tribute to World War II veterans since the National World War II Memorial opened in Washington, DC in 2004.
The one-hour and 45-minute program can be seen in October as follows:

• Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. Montgomery Community Media
  (Channel 21 on Comcast, Verizon and RCN)

On Veterans Day, many of the channels that compose the PEG organization (including County Cable Montgomery, Montgomery Community Media, Montgomery College Television, Montgomery County Public Schools TV and Rockville 11) will show continuous extended interviews with many of the veterans who attended the event and interviews with other veterans who could not attend. On Memorial Day 2013, a one-hour documentary on the County�s World War II veterans will debut.

International Walk to School Day

Looking for a healthy way to start the day? Join thousands of students, parents and community members throughout Montgomery County in celebrating the simple act of walking and bicycling to school on International Walk to School Day, Wednesday, October 3.

The program provides a way to bring community leaders and children together to promote more walkable communities, safer streets, healthier habits and cleaner air.

For more information about Walk to School Day, contact Nadji Kirby at 240-777-7169; email nadji.kirby@montgomerycountymd.gov.
 Or, visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/saferoutestoschool.

30th Annual Germantown Oktoberfest: Same Fun, New Location

The 30th Annual Germantown Oktoberfest, Upcounty�s longest running event, will be held Saturday, October 6 at High Point Farm, 23730 Frederick Rd. (across from Little Bennett Park.). There will music, rides, games, activities and food for the whole family from 9:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Proceeds this year will benefit the Wounded Warriors project.

See more details.

Health Festival Marks Hispanic Heritage Month

In commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month -- September 15 to October 15 -- Montgomery County will host the �Ama Tu Vida� (Love Your Life) Health Festival on Sunday, October 7 from noon to 5 p.m.  The festival will be held at Veteran�s Plaza, located at the corner of Ellsworth Dr. and Fenton St. in Downtown Silver Spring.

The fair will include free blood pressure, cholesterol and vision screenings by local hospitals, community clinics and health organizations. Entertainment will be provided by various area cultural groups. 

Event sponsors include the Latino Health Initiative, the Office of Community Partnerships, the Montgomery County Department of Recreation, Suburban Hospital and Radio America.

For information about the health festival, call 240-777-4173.

Family Justice Center Foundation Benefit

The Montgomery County Family Justice Center Foundation�s Third Annual Benefit will be held on Sunday, October 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda, One Bethesda Metro Center.  The event will be hosted by Board Member, Benefit Chair and Montgomery County�s First Lady Catherine Leggett with award-winning ABC7/WJLA-TV anchor Greta Kreuz as emcee.

The foundation supports the Montgomery County Family Justice Center that opened in 2009 at 600 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 500, in Rockville.  The center provides services ranging from safety planning, help with obtaining protective orders and pro bono legal support to law enforcement intervention, emergency services, and counseling. 

Each year, the benefit recognizes outstanding individuals and companies whose work has been invaluable in bringing awareness and aid to victims of domestic violence. This year�s honorees are: Sen. Barbara Mikulski (Forerunner Award); Dorothy Lennig, Esq., director, Legal Clinic, House of Ruth Maryland (Marilyn J. Praisner Award); Laura Chase, Esq., Deputy State�s Attorney for Montgomery County (Inspiring Leader Award); and Kaiser Permanente (Corporate Legacy Award).

Individual tickets are $125 for the benefit that will feature a silent and live auction, dinner, and awards presentations.  To learn more about the Foundation and the honorees or to register online to attend, go to http://www.mcfjcfoundation.org

One Stop Fair Housing Shop

Housing professionals and providers will have an opportunity to meet fair housing regulators in Montgomery County at the free Fair Housing Educational Forum on Tuesday, October 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Silver Spring Civic Center, One Veterans Plaza (corner of Ellsworth Dr. and Fenton St.).

The �One Stop Fair Housing Shop� is sponsored by the Montgomery County Office of Human Rights.
Advance registration is required.

To register/RSVP, request TTD or receive additional information, contact: Anis Ahmed, Office of Human Rights, 240-777-8454 or email fairhousing@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Sign language interpreters and accommodations must be requested by October 2. All others must RSVP by October 12.

Your Chance to Serve: Openings on Boards, Committees and Commissions

Public participation contributes to the work of County government and provides an important service to the community when a variety of issues, concerns and viewpoints are presented.

Currently, there is an opportunity to serve on any one of the following County boards, committees and commissions:

• Domestic Violence Coordinating Council -- Apply by October 5, 2012
• Library Board � Apply by October 10, 2012

See more details about vacancies.

An application, consisting of a brief cover letter and resume, should be mailed to County Executive Isiah Leggett, 101 Monroe St., 2nd Floor, Rockville, MD  20850, or emailed to countyexecutive.boards@montgomerycountymd.gov.  Home and employment addresses, as well as contact phone numbers and email addresses, should be included. If appropriate, applicants should indicate the position for which they are applying.

Consumer Protection Wants You to Know about�Travel Scams

Whether you�re off to see the sights, sunbathe on the sand or ski the slopes, it pays to be an informed travel shopper.  To help avoid vacation frustration, follow these tips:

• Use a credit card to make your purchase.
• Won a �free� vacation? Not so fast; read the fine print and remember, if a promotion is legitimate, you never need to pay for a prize.
• Purchase vacation packages only from legitimate travel agencies.

For more information, visit OCP�s A-Z Consumer Advice: Travel Agencies.

The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) is the County agency responsible for enforcing consumer protection laws that prohibit unfair and deceptive business acts to ensure a fair marketplace for consumers and businesses.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

Section of Woodmont Ave. in Bethesda to Close during Construction Project

On or about September 7 at 9 p.m., Woodmont Avenue between Bethesda and Miller avenues will close for about 20 months during construction of a public-private partnership project.  When completed, the project will more than triple the number of public parking spaces available on the former surface parking lot located at the intersection of Woodmont and Bethesda avenues.

 The adjacent Capital Crescent Trail will remain open during the entire construction project.

Get information on other parking options and learn more about the project.

Judicial Center�s Maryland Avenue Entrance to Close during Renovation

The Maryland Avenue entrance to the Montgomery County Judicial Center will close September 10, 2012 until March 10, 2013 during renovations of the building.

With the Maryland Avenue entrance temporarily closed, all employees and visitors will enter through the Monroe Street entrance, which is off the traffic circle adjacent to the Executive Office Building�s (EOB) main entrance, 101 Monroe St.  Visitors also can enter the Judicial Center through the cafeteria located on the Terrace Level of the EOB.

The construction of the new Judicial Center Annex is expected to be completed in August 2013, and renovation of the existing Judicial Center will be completed in November 2014.

See more details on the project.

Volunteer Leaders Needed for Bone Builders Classes

Volunteers are needed to teach free Bone Builders classes in Brookeville, Cabin John, Cloverly, Sandy Spring, Takoma Park and White Oak.  The daytime classes are designed to prevent and to slow the development of osteoporosis and help regular participants increase bone density naturally, an effective option for those who may not wish to use anti-osteoporosis medicines.  Each one-hour session includes balance and weight training.

Leaders receive a full day of free training and ongoing supervision by a master trainer. The next training is scheduled for Friday, September 14 at the Mid-County Community Recreation Center 2004 Queensguard Rd., Silver Spring. Space is limited.  

Bone Builders is sponsored by Montgomery County�s Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) and the Department of Health and Human Services� Aging and Disability Services. 

For more information or to register for the training, contact Shawn Brennan, program manager for Senior Health Promotion, at 240-777-1350 or shawn.brennan@montgomerycountymd.gov.  

Take a Look at �Other Sources of News about the County

Thanks to ever-improving technology, the number of ways we�re able to communicate is increasing accordingly.  And, in Montgomery County, there are various ways for residents to receive information about County programs, services and events.

Here�s one example:

If you�re interested in the local business sector, you might check out e-Biz Update published bi-monthly by the Department of Economic Development. It highlights the latest local private-sector, federal agency and County incubator company newsmakers along with DED and partner-initiated events, local federal contracting awards, etc.  Sign up for the newsletter.

In the next Paperless Airplane, we�ll feature more newsletters that might be of interest.

Montgomery County Says �Welcome� -- New Visitors Guide On-Line

It�s all about Montgomery County. It�s the Conference and Visitors Bureau�s new �Visitor Guide� that�s now online.

The guide is a handy reference for residents -- both new and long-time -- who want to find out what there is to see and do in their own backyard, or for visitors to the area.

There�s more than you know, so take a look at the Guide and see how easy it is to plan a �staycation� or a vacation in Montgomery County.

NOTEWORTHY NOTES

FROM THE LAST ISSUE, READERS ASKED ABOUT: All That Tree Debris at the Transfer Station

For instance, one wanted to know: How does the amount of debris compare to �normal� times (obviously, it is greater but how much)?   How is it reduced to mulch?  Where does it go from the Transfer Station? And, why is it -- or is it not -- burned along with other trash at the Dickerson power plant?

Peter Karasik, the Section Chief for Central Operations at the Transfer Station responded:
"On an annual average basis, the Shady Grove Processing Facility and Transfer Station receives about 350 vehicles per day of all sizes delivering yard waste and tree debris.  There are, however, normal seasonal variations. So, a busy day in the spring or early summer may result in 600 to 700 vehicles with yard waste/tree debris coming to our facility, while January and February may have fewer than 100 vehicles per day.

"In the first week after the June 29 storm, we received 1,500 to 2,000 vehicles most days with a record-setting 4,300 vehicles on Tuesday, July 3.

"The Division of Solid Waste Services owns three large horizontal grinders with approximately 1,000-horsepower engines that can grind almost all tree debris except for large stumps which need to be broken up first.  Each of these machines can process more than 100 tons per hour of natural wood waste.

"Our contractor, Grant County Mulch, picks up the mulch, so it is not burned. They pay us about $5 per ton, so we recover some of our processing costs."

******

Another reader suggested: Why don�t you make all this hardwood available to residents as firewood, rather than turning it all into mulch?  I would be willing to pay for it and load it myself. 

Peter replied:
"Other residents have asked the same question. However, we have some concerns with respect to letting residents come onsite with chain saws and cut up and load bulky wood waste.

"First, we�re concerned about general safety. People would be climbing around piles of wood and shifting logs trying to get at the better material.  It would be a difficult situation to safely manage.

"We also have a very limited amount of space onsite, so we could not keep things moving after a major storm if residents parked in our lot and spent an hour or so cutting wood and loading up their trucks. If we had more space, we could have a professional tree trimming contractor cut up the wood waste and prepare bundles or cords of firewood for sale.

"So although we agree with the concept, we currently just don�t have the space to do it."

Thanks to our readers for their insightful questions. 

MC311 Customer Service Center Extends Hours of Operation

Under the extended hours that recently took effect, the County�s MC311 Customer Service Center (CSC) is now operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

An analysis conducted last April (when the center operated until 5 p.m.) indicated that from 5 to 7 p.m. between 135 and 175 calls came in to the center. This means that an additional 700 to 800 customers a week, or more than 3,000 additional customers a month, could be served in the extra two hours. 

Shortly before MC311�s launch in June 2010, a decision was made to operate 10 hours-a-day, five days-a-week until there was a better understanding of call volume and staffing needs.  Over the past two years,  increased portal usage and significant improvements in the call center operations have created greater efficiencies in the operation. 

For those who prefer online contact, the self-service website, www.MC311.com, is available 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week.

Read more.

Board of Elections Seeks Help on Election Day

Judges with Spanish-Speaking Fluency

Montgomery County Board of Elections is seeking individuals with Spanish speaking fluency to serve as election judges at polling places on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6, 2012.

Election judges must be: registered to vote in the State of Maryland, 18 years of age or older and a U.S. citizen. In addition to Spanish speaking fluency, election judges must also be able to speak, read and write in English. All election judges will be compensated for training and for Election Day service.

Anyone interested in serving should contact the Montgomery County Board of Elections at 240-777-8532, download an election judge questionnaire from www.777vote.org or e-mail Dr. Gilberto Zelaya at gilberto.zelaya@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Student Election Aides

School-age students, grades 6-12, are needed to serve as Election Day student aides.

Students and their guardians must attend mandatory training to serve on Election Day and, if applicable, to receive Student Service Learning (SSL) credits.  Students are placed in neighboring precincts according to their home addresses. 

Students within a public, private, independent, religious or home-school setting in Montgomery County are eligible to apply.  U.S. citizenship is not a pre-requisite to participate.  Students with bilingual and American Sign Language skills are encouraged to apply.

Interested parents/guardians can register their student(s), before October 1, online by visiting  www.777vote.org.

For additional information, email future.vote@montgomerycountymd.gov.

New Look, Enhanced Features for Board of Elections' Website

Montgomery County Board of Elections website -- www.777vote.org -- has been redesigned with a fresh look, new and enhanced features, and easier and more straightforward navigation tools.

The new site, designed in coordination with the Department of Technology Services, was upgraded in response to requests for improvements and greater accessibility for disabled and non-English speaking constituents.

Visitors to the site should take note. Some of the links within the page have changed.  Voters are encouraged to enter the site via the home page rather than through the utilization of previously bookmarked links.

Give the Gift of Literacy

The Literacy Council of Montgomery County will hold an information session for volunteers interested in helping adults learn to read, write, or speak English on Wednesday, August 29 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rockville Memorial Library.

Once volunteers have completed the orientation, they can select a two-part training session that fits their schedules.  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.

For complete details, call 301-610-0030, email info@literacycouncilmcmd.org or visit www.literacycouncilmcmd.org.

Fall Guide for Recreation and Parks Programs Now Available

The fall issue of the Montgomery County Guide for Recreation and Parks Programs is out, and residents are advised to register now for programs, classes and swim lessons.

Print copies of the guide are available at recreation centers, park facilities, government buildings and libraries. Residents who prefer receiving the guide in the mail can pay an annual subscription fee of $5 and receive all five issues (Summer, Fall, Winter, Summer Camps and Spring).

To view the guide online, or to sign up for a subscription, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec. For more information, call 240-777-6840.

Nominations Open for Human Rights Hall of Fame

The Montgomery County Office of Human Rights (OHR) is currently accepting nominations for its Seventh Hall of Fame.  Nominations should be individuals � either living or deceased � whose ongoing work, service and contributions have positively impacted human and civil rights in the County.  The deadline for nominations is September 10.

A select number of nominees will be recommended for the Hall of Fame by a panel of community judges.  The induction ceremony is planned for Sunday, October 28, from 3 to 5 p.m., at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown.

The OHR Hall of Fame began in 2001 and is held every other year.  More than 70 individuals have been inducted over the years. 

For a complete listing of inductees, go to www.montgomerycountymd.gov/humanrights.  

Nomination forms are available online, or by calling the Office of Human Rights at 240-777-8456.

�Small Business Plus!� is Here

Developed through a unique collaboration between Montgomery County and community banks headquartered in the County, �Small Business Plus!� will promote job growth through small business lending and earn a competitive rate of return for the County on its investment.

Ten million dollars in County funds will be invested in participating community banks that will, in turn, commit an equal amount.  This means that $20 million will be lent to local small businesses to further promote the creation of new jobs.

Banks may participate if they: are headquartered in Montgomery County; have assets greater than $200 million and less than $5 billion; and meet certain safety and soundness standards established by the County.

Read more.

Consumer Protection Tip: Save on Energy Bills 

This summer is setting heat records!  To keep energy bills down, consider investing in a new, energy-efficient heating and cooling unit. You can also seal air leaks in your home, improve insulation and simply set your thermostat higher in the summer.

For more suggestions, visit Maryland Energy Administration�s webpage on Energy Efficient Cooling Systems

Noteworthy Notes

How to be Cool (and Safe) When it�s Hot

With a summer filled so far with higher than average temperatures, Montgomery County health officials encourage residents to keep in mind places where they can stay cool and to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Most at risk are young children, the elderly and people with health problems, such as asthma, who are susceptible to heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and exhaustion.
Libraries, recreation centers and pools are good places to cool off, along with shopping malls and movie theaters.

To quickly find the location of public facilities, visit My Montgomery at http://www2.montgomerycountymd.gov/mymontgomery and type in your location.  The website includes locations of pools, parks, libraries, regional services centers, recreation centers, Metro stations, hospitals and golf courses.

Residents with questions about specific locations and hours of operation should call 311.
By taking a few precautions, residents can remain safe and comfortable during summer heat waves:

• Stay indoors whenever possible. 
• Drink plenty of water.
• Check frequently on elderly relatives or neighbors and other at-risk individuals.
• Never leave pets or young children in a car.

Also, knowing the symptoms of heat exposure can prevent a serious heat illness from becoming life threatening.

• Heat cramps � symptoms include painful muscle spasms, usually involving the abdominal muscles or legs;
• Heat exhaustion -- first signs are cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, dizziness, nausea, headache and weakness; and
• Heat stroke -- the most serious sign of overexposure.  Symptoms include red, hot, dry skin, weak pulse, rapid breathing and changes in consciousness.  Seek emergency medical attention by calling 911.

For more information on ways to beat the heat, go to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

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Traffic Signal Installed at Dangerous Intersection in Wheaton

The new signal, at the intersection of Claridge and Veirs Mill Rds. (Maryland Route 586), will help protect pedestrians crossing multiple lanes of traffic.

Between 2003 and 2008, 70 accidents occurred at the intersection bordered by St. Catherine Laboure Parish and a highly utilized bus stop.  Three of the accidents resulted in fatalities.

Installation of the traffic signal is the culmination of a multi-year effort by residents, members of the County delegation to the Maryland General Assembly and Councilmember Valerie Ervin, with strong support from Councilmembers Nancy Floreen and Nancy Navarro.

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One-stop Website Highlights County Health Data

Residents and other interested users can find population-based data and information about community health and the social and environmental determinants of health for Montgomery County online at Healthy Montgomery�s website www.healthymontgomery.org.

The site provides data and information on more than 90 topics related to the health and well being of the community and its residents.
Facts on the site include:

• It costs nearly $70,000 for a family of three to live in Montgomery County without receiving any public subsidy for child care, food, housing or transportation.
• One in every 10 teens in Montgomery County has experienced depression in the past year
• Only one-third of the adult population in Montgomery County engages in regular moderate physical activity
• One out of every three residents speaks a language other than English at home.