Statement by Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Ulder J. Tillman
Regarding Probable Case of H1N1 (Swine) Flu
Thursday, April 30, 2009
As expected, Montgomery County has identified a probable case of H1N1 (Swine) flu that we are following closely. The County Executive and health officials are working closely on an hour-by-hour basis with the Governor’s office, as well as state and federal health officials. We expect confirmatory tests to be completed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the next several days. I want to assure everyone that we are doing everything we can at the present time and we will continue to respond as the situation unfolds.
The definition of a “probable” case is an individual with flu-like symptoms who has a recent history of travel to an area affected by swine flu or contact with a known case and has preliminary testing suggestive of a novel virus that needs further confirmation.
The probable case was an individual who traveled to Mexico on business. The individual is recovering from their illness and was not hospitalized. Due to confidentiality concerns, no further information about the individual will be released.
We are also working closely with the Montgomery County Public Schools on necessary precautions involving this particular case, as the individual is related to a school staff member.
The situation with the H1N1 virus is still fluid and the CDC is continually updating its guidance and we will respond accordingly.
To keep the flu from spreading, we continue to urge the public to help stop the spread of germs and illness:
· Always cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue—and throw the tissue away. Or cough or sneeze into the inside of the elbow.
· Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze and before you eat. Alcohol hand sanitizer (minimum 60% alcohol) will do if soap and water are unavailable.
· Avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth. These are places germs can enter the body easily.
· Try to keep at least six feet away from sick people. This is called social distancing. Swine flu, like all flu, is spread through the air so keeping some distance will give the virus space to drop to the ground if someone is coughing or sneezing.
· Monitor yourself and your family for symptoms of fever, chills, headache, sore throat, cough, body aches, and vomiting or diarrhea. If you are sick, stay home from work, school or other public places until you are feeling well. Persons who have difficulty breathing or believed to be severely ill should seek medical attention.
If you have questions or concerns, please call the Public Health Information Line at 240-777-4200 or go to the County’s website at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/swineflu.
Media Contact: Mary Anderson, 240-777-6534 (cell 301-529-7669)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
On the death of a friend - Jim Humphrey - The Montgomery County Sentinel
Wayne Goldstein was a true civic leader in Montgomery County
by Jim Humphrey, Chair, MCCF Planning and Land Use Committee
The Federation Corner | The Montgomery County Sentinel | April 30, 2009
I was shocked and saddened this past Monday to learn that Wayne Goldstein, my friend and fellow civic activist, had died suddenly that morning. He had suffered a heart attack while walking in to the County Council Building in Rockville, to participate in a hearing on expansion plans for Suburban Hospital. It is always a shock when someone so vibrant and lively is taken so suddenly. But how appropriate, I thought, that he had left us while engaged in the activity that he enjoyed so much and did so well--advocating, as an unpaid volunteer, on behalf of the residents of Montgomery County.
After saying a silent prayer for his family and loved ones, my thoughts turned to the magnitude of the loss. Since the mid-1990s, Wayne had been a fixture in the civic community. The depth of his knowledge on issues ranging from land use and education, to the environment and historic preservation, and his experience in navigating the processes of local government were legendary.
Wayne would often call late in the evening to discuss some development project or zoning issue confronting one of the county's communities, usually after attending one or more public meetings earlier that evening. Who would I have those talks with now? If I was stumped as to what aspects of an issue should be focused on when drafting MCCF testimony for a hearing before the County Council or Planning Board, he always provided wise counsel, invariably suggesting an approach I had not considered. Who will provide that counsel now? And in those rare times of frustration, when the likelihood of a positive outcome on an issue made my involvement seem nearly pointless to me, Wayne was the person who had lifted my spirits and urged me to get back in the game. Who, I thought, will be my cheerleader now?
Over the past few days my phone line has been kept busy by community leaders from all over the county, calling to relate their shock and grief over the death of our friend and colleague. And in the sharing of stories with these callers, I came to realize that one of Wayne's most remarkable attributes was that each person I spoke with felt they had had a special relationship with Wayne...that their issues of importance had received particular attention from Wayne...that he had boosted their spirits at critical times by focusing solely on them. This quality was the more remarkable because he stayed so busy. As I would jokingly say to him, "wherever two or three county residents are gathered together to confront an issue that could negatively impact the quality of life in their neighborhood, you're there too--organizing, educating, and supporting their efforts."
And when Wayne was done for the day (attending all of the meetings or hearings he could cram into his schedule), and perhaps spent precious personal time visiting his mom or girlfriend, like many other civic activists I've known he would often stay up late into the night writing, researching, and responding to emails. I would sit amazed when receiving one of his research emails containing a list stretching yards in length of links to internet articles he'd found on a particular topic, with his personal notes tacked on each entry. A small example of the depth of his research was the 3-article series Wayne wrote as a Federation Corner columnist in January of this year on the problem of breaks in the pre-cast concrete water and sewer pipes used by WSSC. The knowledge he acquired helped educate both citizens and elected and appointed officials alike on a whole host of problems and their possible solutions.
For all his hard work and dedication, however, Mr. Goldstein was not a man without humor. He always wore a hat, indoors or out, and often one themed to the event which he was attending. I remember well one Planning Board session where Wayne strode into the hearing room wearing boots and a white cowboy hat and announced in his testimony that he'd heard a new sheriff was needed in town to clean up the particular mess the Board was confronting that day. The twinkle in his eye and his customary Cheshire cat grin always gave one the impression that he knew some juicy bit of news he couldn't wait to share with you, or that he suspected you knew something which he couldn't wait to hear.
Another remarkable aspect to Wayne was that his ego was never at issue. He volunteered his time and abilities on behalf of the residents of the county without a care for personal gain. But, thankfully, his efforts did receive richly deserved recognition.
Wayne was awarded the 2008 Educational Excellence Award from the Maryland Historical Trust Board of Trustees, for planning the COMSAT charrette as a means of showing the developer/owner that it was possible to profitably redevelop the site while retaining and reusing the historic building on the property, which was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli. (And, when Wayne felt the success of the effort might be enhanced by Mr. Pelli's attendance, he simply contacted the architect who willingly agreed to travel to the county and participate.) Wayne served as MCCF Vice President from 2004 to 2006 and President from 2006 to 2008, and was awarded the Star Cup last May in recognition of his outstanding service to the Federation and the people of the county. And in a survey conducted by a local political blogger in the fall of last year, respondents voted Wayne one of the "most influential non-elected people in Montgomery County."
Wayne Goldstein was a one-of-a-kind personality and a truly gentle man. And he will be sorely missed.
by Jim Humphrey, Chair, MCCF Planning and Land Use Committee
The Federation Corner | The Montgomery County Sentinel | April 30, 2009
I was shocked and saddened this past Monday to learn that Wayne Goldstein, my friend and fellow civic activist, had died suddenly that morning. He had suffered a heart attack while walking in to the County Council Building in Rockville, to participate in a hearing on expansion plans for Suburban Hospital. It is always a shock when someone so vibrant and lively is taken so suddenly. But how appropriate, I thought, that he had left us while engaged in the activity that he enjoyed so much and did so well--advocating, as an unpaid volunteer, on behalf of the residents of Montgomery County.
After saying a silent prayer for his family and loved ones, my thoughts turned to the magnitude of the loss. Since the mid-1990s, Wayne had been a fixture in the civic community. The depth of his knowledge on issues ranging from land use and education, to the environment and historic preservation, and his experience in navigating the processes of local government were legendary.
Wayne would often call late in the evening to discuss some development project or zoning issue confronting one of the county's communities, usually after attending one or more public meetings earlier that evening. Who would I have those talks with now? If I was stumped as to what aspects of an issue should be focused on when drafting MCCF testimony for a hearing before the County Council or Planning Board, he always provided wise counsel, invariably suggesting an approach I had not considered. Who will provide that counsel now? And in those rare times of frustration, when the likelihood of a positive outcome on an issue made my involvement seem nearly pointless to me, Wayne was the person who had lifted my spirits and urged me to get back in the game. Who, I thought, will be my cheerleader now?
Over the past few days my phone line has been kept busy by community leaders from all over the county, calling to relate their shock and grief over the death of our friend and colleague. And in the sharing of stories with these callers, I came to realize that one of Wayne's most remarkable attributes was that each person I spoke with felt they had had a special relationship with Wayne...that their issues of importance had received particular attention from Wayne...that he had boosted their spirits at critical times by focusing solely on them. This quality was the more remarkable because he stayed so busy. As I would jokingly say to him, "wherever two or three county residents are gathered together to confront an issue that could negatively impact the quality of life in their neighborhood, you're there too--organizing, educating, and supporting their efforts."
And when Wayne was done for the day (attending all of the meetings or hearings he could cram into his schedule), and perhaps spent precious personal time visiting his mom or girlfriend, like many other civic activists I've known he would often stay up late into the night writing, researching, and responding to emails. I would sit amazed when receiving one of his research emails containing a list stretching yards in length of links to internet articles he'd found on a particular topic, with his personal notes tacked on each entry. A small example of the depth of his research was the 3-article series Wayne wrote as a Federation Corner columnist in January of this year on the problem of breaks in the pre-cast concrete water and sewer pipes used by WSSC. The knowledge he acquired helped educate both citizens and elected and appointed officials alike on a whole host of problems and their possible solutions.
For all his hard work and dedication, however, Mr. Goldstein was not a man without humor. He always wore a hat, indoors or out, and often one themed to the event which he was attending. I remember well one Planning Board session where Wayne strode into the hearing room wearing boots and a white cowboy hat and announced in his testimony that he'd heard a new sheriff was needed in town to clean up the particular mess the Board was confronting that day. The twinkle in his eye and his customary Cheshire cat grin always gave one the impression that he knew some juicy bit of news he couldn't wait to share with you, or that he suspected you knew something which he couldn't wait to hear.
Another remarkable aspect to Wayne was that his ego was never at issue. He volunteered his time and abilities on behalf of the residents of the county without a care for personal gain. But, thankfully, his efforts did receive richly deserved recognition.
Wayne was awarded the 2008 Educational Excellence Award from the Maryland Historical Trust Board of Trustees, for planning the COMSAT charrette as a means of showing the developer/owner that it was possible to profitably redevelop the site while retaining and reusing the historic building on the property, which was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli. (And, when Wayne felt the success of the effort might be enhanced by Mr. Pelli's attendance, he simply contacted the architect who willingly agreed to travel to the county and participate.) Wayne served as MCCF Vice President from 2004 to 2006 and President from 2006 to 2008, and was awarded the Star Cup last May in recognition of his outstanding service to the Federation and the people of the county. And in a survey conducted by a local political blogger in the fall of last year, respondents voted Wayne one of the "most influential non-elected people in Montgomery County."
Wayne Goldstein was a one-of-a-kind personality and a truly gentle man. And he will be sorely missed.
Un Silver Spring Seguro - Comunicado de Prensa
Comunicado de Prensa- atención a la fecha Contactar: Tony Hausner, 301-587-6943 (cell 301-641-0497) thausner@gmail.com
El primer foro de Un Silver Spring Seguro se llevara a cabo el 16 de Mayo, 2009.
El foro tomara lugar en Montgomery College, en el campus de Takoma Park/Silver Spring, localizado en 7600 Takoma Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912, de 8:00 a.m. a 3:15 p.m.
El evento será organizado por las asociaciones cívicas de Prezco* (Consejo del Presidente de Asociaciones Civicas de Silver Spring), la Directiva Concejal de Ciudadanos de Silver Spring (SSCAB) , y el Centro Regional de Silver Spring, y Oficina de Concejal Valerie Ervin
La ciudad de Silver Spring es una comunidad dinámica, y diversa. La misión de “Un Silver Spring Seguro” es desarrollar estrategias, coaliciones, y metas para mantener a Silver Spring una comunidad en donde la gente pueda vivir, trabajar, comprar y jugar en un ambiente positivo y seguro.
El primer foro de Un Silver Spring Seguro atraerá a ciudadanos, líderes comunitarios, organizaciones sin fines de lucro, y empleados de servicios y oficinas públicas para desarrollar un plan estratégico que permita a las comunidades a prevenir y reducir el crimen, y mantener nuestros vecindarios seguros.
“Quiero felicitar a los lideres the “Un Silver Spring Seguro” por convocar a nuestros residentes en una discusión constructiva sobre asuntos de seguridad pública. Como una residente por 22 años en Silver Spring, se que la seguridad es de extrema prioridad para la comunidad y para mí como concejal del condado de Montgomery,” dijo Valerie Ervin, Concejal del condado, que representa a Silver Spring.
El foro consistirá de presentaciones generales y siete capacitaciones que tomaran lugar por la mañana y serán repetidas por la tarde. Los temas de las capacitaciones son:
1. Construyendo lugares públicos y cívicos seguros
2. Robos de grupos y Maras
3. Juventud: Escuela; faltar a clases, y callejeo
4. Patrullando (Policial), protección, Recursos, y Comunicación
5. ¿Por qué y cómo iniciar un programa de Vigilancia comunitaria en el vecindario?
6. Distrito Central de Negocios de Silver Spring
7. Vecindarios residenciales adyacente al Distrito Central de Negocios de Silver Spring
El primer foro de Un Silver Spring Seguro se llevara a cabo el 16 de Mayo, 2009.
El foro tomara lugar en Montgomery College, en el campus de Takoma Park/Silver Spring, localizado en 7600 Takoma Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912, de 8:00 a.m. a 3:15 p.m.
El evento será organizado por las asociaciones cívicas de Prezco* (Consejo del Presidente de Asociaciones Civicas de Silver Spring), la Directiva Concejal de Ciudadanos de Silver Spring (SSCAB) , y el Centro Regional de Silver Spring, y Oficina de Concejal Valerie Ervin
La ciudad de Silver Spring es una comunidad dinámica, y diversa. La misión de “Un Silver Spring Seguro” es desarrollar estrategias, coaliciones, y metas para mantener a Silver Spring una comunidad en donde la gente pueda vivir, trabajar, comprar y jugar en un ambiente positivo y seguro.
El primer foro de Un Silver Spring Seguro atraerá a ciudadanos, líderes comunitarios, organizaciones sin fines de lucro, y empleados de servicios y oficinas públicas para desarrollar un plan estratégico que permita a las comunidades a prevenir y reducir el crimen, y mantener nuestros vecindarios seguros.
“Quiero felicitar a los lideres the “Un Silver Spring Seguro” por convocar a nuestros residentes en una discusión constructiva sobre asuntos de seguridad pública. Como una residente por 22 años en Silver Spring, se que la seguridad es de extrema prioridad para la comunidad y para mí como concejal del condado de Montgomery,” dijo Valerie Ervin, Concejal del condado, que representa a Silver Spring.
El foro consistirá de presentaciones generales y siete capacitaciones que tomaran lugar por la mañana y serán repetidas por la tarde. Los temas de las capacitaciones son:
1. Construyendo lugares públicos y cívicos seguros
2. Robos de grupos y Maras
3. Juventud: Escuela; faltar a clases, y callejeo
4. Patrullando (Policial), protección, Recursos, y Comunicación
5. ¿Por qué y cómo iniciar un programa de Vigilancia comunitaria en el vecindario?
6. Distrito Central de Negocios de Silver Spring
7. Vecindarios residenciales adyacente al Distrito Central de Negocios de Silver Spring
McCarthy: Truancy a factor in crime - Gazette
State's attorney discusses gangs with county League of Women Voters
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Montgomery County State's Attorney John McCarthy didn't go to the League of Women Voters of Montgomery County meeting Tuesday in Wheaton to talk about students skipping school, but truancy ended up dominating his conversation about gangs in the county.
While McCarthy said it's almost impossible to know the rate of crime committed by gang members, the peak time for gang members to commit crime is during the school day and just after school, between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The peak recruiting age for gangs is middle school, he said.
There are about 40 known gangs and 1,600 gang members in the county, McCarthy said. While members are of a variety of ages, many potential gang members could be diverted from joining gangs by staying in school and taking part in after-school activities and mentor programs.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/wheanew185031_32522.shtml
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Montgomery County State's Attorney John McCarthy didn't go to the League of Women Voters of Montgomery County meeting Tuesday in Wheaton to talk about students skipping school, but truancy ended up dominating his conversation about gangs in the county.
While McCarthy said it's almost impossible to know the rate of crime committed by gang members, the peak time for gang members to commit crime is during the school day and just after school, between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. The peak recruiting age for gangs is middle school, he said.
There are about 40 known gangs and 1,600 gang members in the county, McCarthy said. While members are of a variety of ages, many potential gang members could be diverted from joining gangs by staying in school and taking part in after-school activities and mentor programs.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/wheanew185031_32522.shtml
MCPS/MCPH Press Release - Swine Flu - April 30, 2009
The following joint press release regarding Swine Flu was issued by Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery County Public Health. Contained herein are precautions for preventing seasonal flu and other communicable disease. This information is pertinent to all residents. Community Managers and Homeowner Association/Tenant Associations should pass this information along or develop a similar document for their members to be promulgated at community meetings and in community newsletters.
MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850
(301) 279-3381
April 29, 2009
Dear Parents/Guardians:
We are writing to inform you of a health issue that currently is receiving considerable attention in the media and is understandably a concern for parents and families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a public health alert due to the increase in reported cases of Swine Flu in the U.S. The Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is closely monitoring the outbreak. It is important to note that as of today, there are no confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Montgomery County or the state of Maryland.
Please be assured that Montgomery County Public Schools and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services are monitoring the Swine Flu outbreak. All principals are receiving information and school nurses also are working with school staff on this issue.
You and your family can take the following general precautions for preventing seasonal flu and other communicable disease:
• Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Health situations such as this Swine Flu outbreak can cause anxiety for children and parents. As parents and educators, we want to protect our children and ensure their safety. One of the most effective things that we can do is to remain calm and positive. Our children need to know that we are dealing with this situation proactively and they are safe. Please monitor your child's feelings and behavior for any signs of anxiety.
Additional information about this issue is available on the Montgomery County Public Schools website at www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org and on the Montgomery County government website at www.montgomerycount ymd.gov. Thank you for your attention on this important matter.
Respectfully,
Jerry D. Weast, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools
Ulder J. Tillman, M.D., MPH
Montgomery County Health Officer
and Chief of Public Health
MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, Maryland 20850
(301) 279-3381
April 29, 2009
Dear Parents/Guardians:
We are writing to inform you of a health issue that currently is receiving considerable attention in the media and is understandably a concern for parents and families. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a public health alert due to the increase in reported cases of Swine Flu in the U.S. The Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is closely monitoring the outbreak. It is important to note that as of today, there are no confirmed cases of Swine Flu in Montgomery County or the state of Maryland.
Please be assured that Montgomery County Public Schools and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services are monitoring the Swine Flu outbreak. All principals are receiving information and school nurses also are working with school staff on this issue.
You and your family can take the following general precautions for preventing seasonal flu and other communicable disease:
• Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve or a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Health situations such as this Swine Flu outbreak can cause anxiety for children and parents. As parents and educators, we want to protect our children and ensure their safety. One of the most effective things that we can do is to remain calm and positive. Our children need to know that we are dealing with this situation proactively and they are safe. Please monitor your child's feelings and behavior for any signs of anxiety.
Additional information about this issue is available on the Montgomery County Public Schools website at www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org and on the Montgomery County government website at www.montgomerycount ymd.gov. Thank you for your attention on this important matter.
Respectfully,
Jerry D. Weast, Ed.D
Superintendent of Schools
Ulder J. Tillman, M.D., MPH
Montgomery County Health Officer
and Chief of Public Health
‘Buy local' campaigns could go out of business - Gazetee
Wheaton and Silver Spring programs not included in county executive's budget
by Amber Parcher and Jason Tomassini | Staff Writers | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A pilot "buy local" campaign and business alliance in downtown Silver Spring and Wheaton might not continue next year because it could be cut from the county's budget, its program manager said.
Funds for Local First Wheaton and Buy Local Silver Spring, two separate programs that draw consumer attention to local businesses through marketing campaigns and sustainable business practices, were left out of the county executive's recommended fiscal 2010 budget, said Emily Adelman, the program manager for the Local First campaigns.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183655_32523.shtml
by Amber Parcher and Jason Tomassini | Staff Writers | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A pilot "buy local" campaign and business alliance in downtown Silver Spring and Wheaton might not continue next year because it could be cut from the county's budget, its program manager said.
Funds for Local First Wheaton and Buy Local Silver Spring, two separate programs that draw consumer attention to local businesses through marketing campaigns and sustainable business practices, were left out of the county executive's recommended fiscal 2010 budget, said Emily Adelman, the program manager for the Local First campaigns.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183655_32523.shtml
Library design meetings moved to new location - Gazette
People and Places | Jason Tomassini and Jeremy Arias | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The location of the three remaining community meetings with architects and planners of the proposed new Silver Spring Library has been changed to the media center at Silver Spring International Middle School, 313 Wayne Ave. in Silver Spring. The meetings will be held to gain feedback from residents for a more detailed exterior design for the building, which is planned for the corner of Wayne Avenue and Fenton Street.
A meeting was held April 16 with topics ranging from library access, public open space and the exterior design. The remaining meetings are from 7 to 9 p.m. May 7 to discuss initial concepts of the site and building; 7 to 9 p.m. May 28 to continue with previous topics; and 7 to 9 p.m. June 18 to gather feedback to be recommended to the Montgomery County Public Libraries and Department of General Services regarding a specific site plan, massing and elevations of the site and the building's Leadership in Energy and Environment Design qualifications.
Plans for the site include a six-story library along Wayne and Fenton, including a level of office space and an art center, and a 10-story, 146-unit apartment complex on Bonifant Street. Parking for the library would be provided by the Wayne Avenue garage.
After the final design meeting, architects will move forward with designing the building in detail.
To request Americans with Disabilities Act program accommodations, contact the Silver Spring Library at 240-773-9420 five working days in advance of the meeting.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183710_32537.shtml
The location of the three remaining community meetings with architects and planners of the proposed new Silver Spring Library has been changed to the media center at Silver Spring International Middle School, 313 Wayne Ave. in Silver Spring. The meetings will be held to gain feedback from residents for a more detailed exterior design for the building, which is planned for the corner of Wayne Avenue and Fenton Street.
A meeting was held April 16 with topics ranging from library access, public open space and the exterior design. The remaining meetings are from 7 to 9 p.m. May 7 to discuss initial concepts of the site and building; 7 to 9 p.m. May 28 to continue with previous topics; and 7 to 9 p.m. June 18 to gather feedback to be recommended to the Montgomery County Public Libraries and Department of General Services regarding a specific site plan, massing and elevations of the site and the building's Leadership in Energy and Environment Design qualifications.
Plans for the site include a six-story library along Wayne and Fenton, including a level of office space and an art center, and a 10-story, 146-unit apartment complex on Bonifant Street. Parking for the library would be provided by the Wayne Avenue garage.
After the final design meeting, architects will move forward with designing the building in detail.
To request Americans with Disabilities Act program accommodations, contact the Silver Spring Library at 240-773-9420 five working days in advance of the meeting.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183710_32537.shtml
Bill would merge citizens committees - Gazette
Measure intended to save money in county budget
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A proposed bill that would merge several Silver Spring citizens committees in an effort to save Montgomery County money has been met with opposition from members of those committees, who say the bill would compromise their involvement in the local government process.
On April 21, Councilman George L. Leventhal introduced two bills that, if passed, would reduce the number of boards, committees and commissions in the county from 84 to 72. While those committees consist of volujavascript:void(0)nteers, Leventhal said the bills would save the county at least four weeks and up to four months of staff time per year. Paid county employees are required to attend committee meetings and prepare agendas.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183656_32524.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A proposed bill that would merge several Silver Spring citizens committees in an effort to save Montgomery County money has been met with opposition from members of those committees, who say the bill would compromise their involvement in the local government process.
On April 21, Councilman George L. Leventhal introduced two bills that, if passed, would reduce the number of boards, committees and commissions in the county from 84 to 72. While those committees consist of volujavascript:void(0)nteers, Leventhal said the bills would save the county at least four weeks and up to four months of staff time per year. Paid county employees are required to attend committee meetings and prepare agendas.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183656_32524.shtml
Fenton Village: ‘Funky,' diverse and overlooked - Gazette
Neighborhood residents seek to define community as they consider ways to garner commercial attention
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 23, 2009
What is Fenton Village?
That was the simple question asked of residents from the Silver Spring neighborhood last week at a forum to discuss the future of the area bordered by Fenton Street to the east, Georgia Avenue to the west, Wayne Avenue to the north and Philadelphia Avenue to the south.
Some felt Fenton Village should remain as is: home to residents of diverse backgrounds, long-established service-oriented shops and locally-owned restaurants that don't constitute "destination shopping." Others wanted to capitalize on what they called the neighborhood's "funkiness" to carve a more prominent niche for Fenton Village within a redeveloped downtown Silver Spring.
After an overview of the neighborhood was presented April 22, the roughly 50 people in attendance broke into five work groups to discuss Fenton Village. One group of community members spoke thoughtfully of how Fenton Village has evolved and how to preserve the neighborhood's character while still bringing in visitors and viable businesses.
http://gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183703_32529.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 23, 2009
What is Fenton Village?
That was the simple question asked of residents from the Silver Spring neighborhood last week at a forum to discuss the future of the area bordered by Fenton Street to the east, Georgia Avenue to the west, Wayne Avenue to the north and Philadelphia Avenue to the south.
Some felt Fenton Village should remain as is: home to residents of diverse backgrounds, long-established service-oriented shops and locally-owned restaurants that don't constitute "destination shopping." Others wanted to capitalize on what they called the neighborhood's "funkiness" to carve a more prominent niche for Fenton Village within a redeveloped downtown Silver Spring.
After an overview of the neighborhood was presented April 22, the roughly 50 people in attendance broke into five work groups to discuss Fenton Village. One group of community members spoke thoughtfully of how Fenton Village has evolved and how to preserve the neighborhood's character while still bringing in visitors and viable businesses.
http://gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183703_32529.shtml
Committee questions options for planning headquarters - Gazette
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Planning officials said Monday the alternatives to building the board's new headquarters are more expensive than the original plans, but members of the County Council's Planning, Housing and Economic Development committee want a closer look at the available options before they approve funding for the project.
As it is currently planned, planners said SilverPlace, the new Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission headquarters planned for its current location at 8787 Georgia Ave. in downtown Silver Spring, would cost the county $4.2 million over the next two fiscal years and an estimated $69 million for the entire project. Funding likely would be included in the fiscal 2009-2014 Capital Improvements Program.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183703_32530.shtml
Planning officials said Monday the alternatives to building the board's new headquarters are more expensive than the original plans, but members of the County Council's Planning, Housing and Economic Development committee want a closer look at the available options before they approve funding for the project.
As it is currently planned, planners said SilverPlace, the new Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission headquarters planned for its current location at 8787 Georgia Ave. in downtown Silver Spring, would cost the county $4.2 million over the next two fiscal years and an estimated $69 million for the entire project. Funding likely would be included in the fiscal 2009-2014 Capital Improvements Program.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183703_32530.shtml
Silver Spring artist crafts portraits of courage - Gazette
Paintings capture the faces of those who took a stand against human-rights abuses
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A dazzling array of colors sprang out from the canvasses lining the walls of the Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center in downtown Silver Spring on Saturday evening. Bright, vibrant reds and oranges mingled to create deeply textured, haunting portraits of human rights activists from all over the world.
More than 20 portraits were featured at the exhibit displaying the work of Silver Spring resident and artist Tom Block. Block has completed more than 100 portraits of more than 45 human rights activists as part of the Human Rights Painting Project he founded in 2002 with Amnesty International, a nonprofit human-rights watch group.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183654_32522.shtml
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 29, 2009
A dazzling array of colors sprang out from the canvasses lining the walls of the Pyramid Atlantic Arts Center in downtown Silver Spring on Saturday evening. Bright, vibrant reds and oranges mingled to create deeply textured, haunting portraits of human rights activists from all over the world.
More than 20 portraits were featured at the exhibit displaying the work of Silver Spring resident and artist Tom Block. Block has completed more than 100 portraits of more than 45 human rights activists as part of the Human Rights Painting Project he founded in 2002 with Amnesty International, a nonprofit human-rights watch group.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04292009/silvnew183654_32522.shtml
Montgomery County Community Activist Wayne Goldstein, 56 - Obituary - Washington Post
Landscape Designer, Montgomery Activist
By Miranda S. Spivack
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wayne Goldstein, 56, a landscape designer and influential Montgomery County community activist focused on historic preservation and land-use concerns during a period of rapid growth and development, died April 27 at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville after a heart attack.
Mr. Goldstein, who served as president of historic preservation and civic organizations, collapsed in Rockville on his way to a county hearing about the proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital.
His death brought an outpouring of warm sentiment for the Kensington resident, whose trademark ponytail and affinity for offbeat hats made him stand out in almost any crowd.
County Council President Phil Andrews (D-Gaithersburg-Rockville) praised Mr. Goldstein for his tenacity, research abilities and advocacy for historic preservation. He said Mr. Goldstein's death "is a terrible blow to the community."
At his death, Mr. Goldstein was president of Montgomery Preservation. In recent years, he had served as president of the Montgomery County Civic Federation and the Kensington Heights Citizens Association. He was a columnist for the Sentinel weekly newspaper.
Mr. Goldstein played a key role in many community efforts across the county, including the preservation of a Cesar Pelli-designed Comsat office building near Clarksburg.
In 2007, he was credited with helping persuade the developer and County Council members that the Comsat building was among the few architecturally significant structures in Montgomery County. Pelli, a former dean of Yale University's architecture school, designed the North Terminal at Reagan National Airport and Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Mr. Goldstein's efforts could be seen as bruising. He was the target of a $2 million defamation lawsuit brought by developer Aris Mardirossian.
Mardirossian's suit was based on a letter Mr. Goldstein wrote to him asking about a rumor that the developer planned to cut trees to create a view of the Potomac River from his property. Mardirossian alleged that the letter was "widely circulated" in the county and harmed his reputation, but Mr. Goldstein's attorney called the suit frivolous. The case was pending at the time of Mr. Goldstein's death.
Wayne Michael Goldstein was born Nov. 8, 1952, in Washington and was raised in Chevy Chase. He was a 1970 graduate of Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and a 1975 graduate of Hampshire College in Amherst, Mass. As a part of his self-designed college curriculum, he studied horticulture and organic gardening.
He owned and operated a landscape design business for much of his career. His community activism budded in the late 1990s when he joined an effort to rid Montgomery County of speed humps.
His most prominent early role was his unsuccessful attempt to stop Montgomery officials from razing the historic Silver Spring Armory to make way for a $321 million "town center" redevelopment project to revive a deteriorating downtown.
The armory was in severe disrepair, and Mr. Goldstein began his testimony before the county Planning Board in an eye-catching way: opening an umbrella and doing his best imitation of Gene Kelly's song-and-dance routine of "Singin' in the Rain."
Most of the armory had been demolished by the time a judge issued an order halting the work. "There's a tremendous amount of principle involved here," Mr. Goldstein told The Washington Post. "We're doing this to say, 'This was an important, historic building and this still is an important site, and we had a right to be heard and not be pushed aside.' "
Mr. Goldstein became immersed in the minutiae of county planning codes.
Amy Presley, a member of the Montgomery County Planning Board who rose to prominence when she and other Clarksburg residents uncovered irregularities in the planning process, said Mr. Goldstein had been one of her early tutors, helping her sort out the often confusing documents on file at the planning agency and describing what builders and developers are required to do.
"I have never met a more tirelessly selfless community advocate than Wayne Goldstein," Presley said. "I knew him as a tenacious and passionate leader, a brilliant and compassionate friend -- my personal primer into the world of preliminary plans, site plans and the mysterious 'Code.' "
Survivors include his mother, Trenice Goldstein of Chevy Chase; and two brothers.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/29/AR2009042904379_pf.html
By Miranda S. Spivack
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wayne Goldstein, 56, a landscape designer and influential Montgomery County community activist focused on historic preservation and land-use concerns during a period of rapid growth and development, died April 27 at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville after a heart attack.
Mr. Goldstein, who served as president of historic preservation and civic organizations, collapsed in Rockville on his way to a county hearing about the proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital.
His death brought an outpouring of warm sentiment for the Kensington resident, whose trademark ponytail and affinity for offbeat hats made him stand out in almost any crowd.
County Council President Phil Andrews (D-Gaithersburg-Rockville) praised Mr. Goldstein for his tenacity, research abilities and advocacy for historic preservation. He said Mr. Goldstein's death "is a terrible blow to the community."
At his death, Mr. Goldstein was president of Montgomery Preservation. In recent years, he had served as president of the Montgomery County Civic Federation and the Kensington Heights Citizens Association. He was a columnist for the Sentinel weekly newspaper.
Mr. Goldstein played a key role in many community efforts across the county, including the preservation of a Cesar Pelli-designed Comsat office building near Clarksburg.
In 2007, he was credited with helping persuade the developer and County Council members that the Comsat building was among the few architecturally significant structures in Montgomery County. Pelli, a former dean of Yale University's architecture school, designed the North Terminal at Reagan National Airport and Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Mr. Goldstein's efforts could be seen as bruising. He was the target of a $2 million defamation lawsuit brought by developer Aris Mardirossian.
Mardirossian's suit was based on a letter Mr. Goldstein wrote to him asking about a rumor that the developer planned to cut trees to create a view of the Potomac River from his property. Mardirossian alleged that the letter was "widely circulated" in the county and harmed his reputation, but Mr. Goldstein's attorney called the suit frivolous. The case was pending at the time of Mr. Goldstein's death.
Wayne Michael Goldstein was born Nov. 8, 1952, in Washington and was raised in Chevy Chase. He was a 1970 graduate of Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School and a 1975 graduate of Hampshire College in Amherst, Mass. As a part of his self-designed college curriculum, he studied horticulture and organic gardening.
He owned and operated a landscape design business for much of his career. His community activism budded in the late 1990s when he joined an effort to rid Montgomery County of speed humps.
His most prominent early role was his unsuccessful attempt to stop Montgomery officials from razing the historic Silver Spring Armory to make way for a $321 million "town center" redevelopment project to revive a deteriorating downtown.
The armory was in severe disrepair, and Mr. Goldstein began his testimony before the county Planning Board in an eye-catching way: opening an umbrella and doing his best imitation of Gene Kelly's song-and-dance routine of "Singin' in the Rain."
Most of the armory had been demolished by the time a judge issued an order halting the work. "There's a tremendous amount of principle involved here," Mr. Goldstein told The Washington Post. "We're doing this to say, 'This was an important, historic building and this still is an important site, and we had a right to be heard and not be pushed aside.' "
Mr. Goldstein became immersed in the minutiae of county planning codes.
Amy Presley, a member of the Montgomery County Planning Board who rose to prominence when she and other Clarksburg residents uncovered irregularities in the planning process, said Mr. Goldstein had been one of her early tutors, helping her sort out the often confusing documents on file at the planning agency and describing what builders and developers are required to do.
"I have never met a more tirelessly selfless community advocate than Wayne Goldstein," Presley said. "I knew him as a tenacious and passionate leader, a brilliant and compassionate friend -- my personal primer into the world of preliminary plans, site plans and the mysterious 'Code.' "
Survivors include his mother, Trenice Goldstein of Chevy Chase; and two brothers.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/29/AR2009042904379_pf.html
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Walking Tour of Historic Downtown Silver Spring, Saturday, May 2, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Join Silver Spring Historical Society President Jerry A. McCoy on a walking tour of Silver Spring's Georgia Avenue and the original "silver" spring. McCoy is the author of "Historic Silver Spring," published in 2005 by Arcadia Press.
Meet at the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Station, 8100 Georgia Avenue (at Sligo Avenue). Limited free parking is available in front of the station. Cost is $5.00 per person. Children under 13 free. Free for SSHS members with membership card. Friendly dogs are welcomed!
Reservations are NOT required. For additional information email sshistory@yahoo.com or call 301.537.1253.
Join Silver Spring Historical Society President Jerry A. McCoy on a walking tour of Silver Spring's Georgia Avenue and the original "silver" spring. McCoy is the author of "Historic Silver Spring," published in 2005 by Arcadia Press.
Meet at the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Station, 8100 Georgia Avenue (at Sligo Avenue). Limited free parking is available in front of the station. Cost is $5.00 per person. Children under 13 free. Free for SSHS members with membership card. Friendly dogs are welcomed!
Reservations are NOT required. For additional information email sshistory@yahoo.com or call 301.537.1253.
Tributes Continue to Flow for MoCo Activist - Washington Post
Miranda Spivack | Maryland Moment | April 29, 2009
The tributes keep pouring in for Wayne Goldstein, the Montgomery County civic activist who collapsed on Monday on his way to a hearing about proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital. He died a short time later at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital.
Goldstein's family and friends -mother Trenice, two brothers, and his companion Judith Pont - will receive friends at the Danzansky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel, 1170 Rockville Pike, 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday. A public memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday at the same location, with a private interment to follow.
Earlier that day, a group known as Stormwater Partners plans to remember Goldstein, 56, at its regular meeting. Diane Cameron, a scientist and founder of the group, praised Goldstein in an email to the group, calling him "a good friend to many of us [who} was appreciated for his biting sarcasm, absurd sense of humor, and encyclopedic knowledge of planning and history in Montgomery County. He was also a thorn in the side of developers and those public officials whom he saw as fronting for developers."
Another Stormwater Partner, Joseph Horgan, wrote: "If, as Woody Allen once observed, 90 percent of life is showing up, then Wayne lived 250 percent. He showed up when we did, and when we didn't. And he didn't "just" show up; he participated. His death is a major loss to the Stormwater Partners & to Montgomery County. "
Goldstein's death has brought an outpouring of warm sentiment for the 56-year-old Kensington resident, whose trademark ponytail and affinity for hats made him stand out in almost any crowd.
County Council President Phil Andrews (D-Rockville, Gaithersburg) acknowledged Goldstein's sartorial leanings in comments at the council Tuesday, noting Goldstein's "great collection of hats." Andrews praised Goldstein for his "impish sense of humor" as well as his tenacity, research abilities and advocacy for historic preservation. He said Goldstein was relentless and an outstanding leader, whose death "is a terrible blow to the community."
Goldstein was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, president of Montgomery Preservation Inc. and a columnist for the Sentinel weekly newspaper. He operated a landscaping business, and was an avid gardener.
County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) said he was "deeply saddened" by Goldstein's death. "Wayne was an earnest and perceptive watchdog on county government and county politics but he never let that earnestness get in the way of a delightful sense of humor and love of life," Leggett said in a statement.
"I have lost a friend," Leggett added. "Montgomery County has lost an institution."
Goldstein played a key role in many community efforts around the county, including an attempt to preserve a Cesar Pelli-designed office building near Germantown. He gave of his time and expertise without charge to almost anyone who wanted his help, and was known for his extensive research, crisp writing style and pleasant demeanor.
Sometimes those efforts could be bruising. Goldstein was the target of a $2 million defamation lawsuit by developer Aris Mardirossian.
Mardirossian's suit was based on a letter Goldstein wrote to him asking about a rumor that the developer planned to cut trees to create a view of the Potomac River from his property. Mardirossian alleged that the letter was "widely circulated" in the county and harmed his reputation, while Goldstein's attorney called the suit frivolous.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/annapolis/2009/04/tributes_continue_to_flow_for.html?wprss=annapolis
The tributes keep pouring in for Wayne Goldstein, the Montgomery County civic activist who collapsed on Monday on his way to a hearing about proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital. He died a short time later at Shady Grove Adventist Hospital.
Goldstein's family and friends -mother Trenice, two brothers, and his companion Judith Pont - will receive friends at the Danzansky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel, 1170 Rockville Pike, 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday. A public memorial service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Friday at the same location, with a private interment to follow.
Earlier that day, a group known as Stormwater Partners plans to remember Goldstein, 56, at its regular meeting. Diane Cameron, a scientist and founder of the group, praised Goldstein in an email to the group, calling him "a good friend to many of us [who} was appreciated for his biting sarcasm, absurd sense of humor, and encyclopedic knowledge of planning and history in Montgomery County. He was also a thorn in the side of developers and those public officials whom he saw as fronting for developers."
Another Stormwater Partner, Joseph Horgan, wrote: "If, as Woody Allen once observed, 90 percent of life is showing up, then Wayne lived 250 percent. He showed up when we did, and when we didn't. And he didn't "just" show up; he participated. His death is a major loss to the Stormwater Partners & to Montgomery County. "
Goldstein's death has brought an outpouring of warm sentiment for the 56-year-old Kensington resident, whose trademark ponytail and affinity for hats made him stand out in almost any crowd.
County Council President Phil Andrews (D-Rockville, Gaithersburg) acknowledged Goldstein's sartorial leanings in comments at the council Tuesday, noting Goldstein's "great collection of hats." Andrews praised Goldstein for his "impish sense of humor" as well as his tenacity, research abilities and advocacy for historic preservation. He said Goldstein was relentless and an outstanding leader, whose death "is a terrible blow to the community."
Goldstein was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, president of Montgomery Preservation Inc. and a columnist for the Sentinel weekly newspaper. He operated a landscaping business, and was an avid gardener.
County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) said he was "deeply saddened" by Goldstein's death. "Wayne was an earnest and perceptive watchdog on county government and county politics but he never let that earnestness get in the way of a delightful sense of humor and love of life," Leggett said in a statement.
"I have lost a friend," Leggett added. "Montgomery County has lost an institution."
Goldstein played a key role in many community efforts around the county, including an attempt to preserve a Cesar Pelli-designed office building near Germantown. He gave of his time and expertise without charge to almost anyone who wanted his help, and was known for his extensive research, crisp writing style and pleasant demeanor.
Sometimes those efforts could be bruising. Goldstein was the target of a $2 million defamation lawsuit by developer Aris Mardirossian.
Mardirossian's suit was based on a letter Goldstein wrote to him asking about a rumor that the developer planned to cut trees to create a view of the Potomac River from his property. Mardirossian alleged that the letter was "widely circulated" in the county and harmed his reputation, while Goldstein's attorney called the suit frivolous.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/annapolis/2009/04/tributes_continue_to_flow_for.html?wprss=annapolis
Unity Festival at Long Branch Community Center - Saturday, May 20, 2009
Don't forget about the LONG BRANCH UNITY FESTIVAL!
This Saturday, May 2nd, 11:00am-4:00pm at the Long Branch Community Center, 8700 Piney Branch Road Silver Spring, 20901
Come out to the Long Branch Community Center Unity Festival to join in the festivities - arts and crafts, games, vendors, food, etc.
Watch the Long Branch Athletic Association's Celebrity Basketball Game at 2:00!
Multicultural Food Vendors * Face Painting * Moon Bounce * Free Parking
For more information call 301-431-5702
This Saturday, May 2nd, 11:00am-4:00pm at the Long Branch Community Center, 8700 Piney Branch Road Silver Spring, 20901
Come out to the Long Branch Community Center Unity Festival to join in the festivities - arts and crafts, games, vendors, food, etc.
Watch the Long Branch Athletic Association's Celebrity Basketball Game at 2:00!
Multicultural Food Vendors * Face Painting * Moon Bounce * Free Parking
For more information call 301-431-5702
Tributes pour in for MoCo activist Wayne Goldstein, dead at 56 - Washington Post
Miranda Spivack | Maryland Moment | April 28, 2009
Wayne Goldstein, a Montgomery County community activist with a keen interest in historic preservation and land use, died Monday morning at Shady Grove Hospital after collapsing in front of the County Council building on his way to a hearing about the proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital, according to his close friend and fellow activist Jim Humphrey.
Goldstein, 56, was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, president of Montgomery Preservation Inc. and a columnist for The Sentinel newspaper. Goldstein operated a landscaping business, and was an avid gardener.
Royce Hanson, chairman of the Montgomery County Planning Board, called Goldstein's death " a loss to the civic community." He said Goldstein was "persistent, well-informed and a constant advocate of both historic preservation causes and community causes."
Goldstein is survived by two brothers and his mother, Terry, of Chevy Chase, a former teacher, and herself a civic activist.
Amy Presley, a planning board member who rose to prominence when she and other Clarksburg residents uncovered irregularities in the planning process, said Goldstein had been one of her early tutors, helping her sort out the often confusing documents that are on file at the planning agency and describe what builders and developers are required to do. "I am really sad," Presley said.
Humphrey said he was saddened by the loss of his long time friend and said the civic community would suffer from the loss of Goldstein's voluminious institutional knowledge of the planning process, "much of it was in his head." Funeral arrangements will be announced soon, Humprhey said.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/annapolis/2009/04/tributes_pour_in_for_moco_acti.html
Wayne Goldstein, a Montgomery County community activist with a keen interest in historic preservation and land use, died Monday morning at Shady Grove Hospital after collapsing in front of the County Council building on his way to a hearing about the proposed expansion of Suburban Hospital, according to his close friend and fellow activist Jim Humphrey.
Goldstein, 56, was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, president of Montgomery Preservation Inc. and a columnist for The Sentinel newspaper. Goldstein operated a landscaping business, and was an avid gardener.
Royce Hanson, chairman of the Montgomery County Planning Board, called Goldstein's death " a loss to the civic community." He said Goldstein was "persistent, well-informed and a constant advocate of both historic preservation causes and community causes."
Goldstein is survived by two brothers and his mother, Terry, of Chevy Chase, a former teacher, and herself a civic activist.
Amy Presley, a planning board member who rose to prominence when she and other Clarksburg residents uncovered irregularities in the planning process, said Goldstein had been one of her early tutors, helping her sort out the often confusing documents that are on file at the planning agency and describe what builders and developers are required to do. "I am really sad," Presley said.
Humphrey said he was saddened by the loss of his long time friend and said the civic community would suffer from the loss of Goldstein's voluminious institutional knowledge of the planning process, "much of it was in his head." Funeral arrangements will be announced soon, Humprhey said.
http://voices.washingtonpost.com/annapolis/2009/04/tributes_pour_in_for_moco_acti.html
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Wayne Goldstein - Service at Danzansky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel, Friday, 1 pm
The service for Wayne Goldstein will be at 1 pm Friday at:
Danzansky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel
1170 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
Visitation at the same place will be Thursday evening, 7 to 9 pm.
Danzansky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel
1170 Rockville Pike
Rockville, MD 20852
Visitation at the same place will be Thursday evening, 7 to 9 pm.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Civic activist Wayne Goldstein dies - Gazette
Was headed to testify at hearing
by Janel Davis | Staff Writer | Monday, April 27, 2009
Longtime civic activist Wayne Goldstein died of a heart attack Monday morning in Rockville on the way to testify in a hearing before the county's Board of Appeals, family members said Monday afternoon.
Family members and friends reported that Goldstein, 56, was scheduled to appear for the hearing at 9:30 a.m. but never showed up. A card belonging to his cousin, a dentist in the county, was found in his pocket. A call to Goldstein's cousin set off a round of calls to family members, said Goldstein's mother Terry, who lives in Chevy Chase.
Goldstein was reportedly taken to Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville.
"They wouldn't tell me anything over the phone, but once I arrived they did let me see him and he looked just like he was sleeping," Terry Goldstein said. "I'm devastated. That's my oldest son. It's terrible. It's a shock."
Goldstein was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, a current columnist in The Montgomery County Sentinel newspaper and a consistent advocate for community issues throughout the county.
On the morning of his death, Goldstein was scheduled to testify about Suburban Hospital's planned expansion.
"If ever you can say someone went out with his boots on, Wayne was doing what he loved right up to the very end," said Drew Powell, former executive director of Neighbors PAC, and a fellow civic activist.
Wearing his traditional flat cap and ponytail, Goldstein had become a fixture at County Council and community meetings.
"I knew Wayne as a close friend, a fierce defender of the environment and historic preservation," said Steve Kanstoroom, also a civic activist and past County Council candidate. "He selflessly gave 110 percent to improve the quality of life for county residents, often for people he had never met, never asking anything in return."
Hours after his death, the civic community was lamenting his passing.
"He was a huge figure in the preservation and advocacy realm and there are going to be huge shoes to fill. It's really a sad day for the community," said Eileen Sobeck, vice president of Historic Takoma Inc. "He really was fearless about taking on issues that he felt strongly about. … He was everywhere all the time."
County Council President Philip M. Andrews called Goldstein a "pillar of the civic community."
"It's a terrible loss to his family and to the people of this county. He was a strong advocate for the public interest," Andrews said.
In addition to his civic duties, Goldstein was also well known for his horticultural work. He operated a landscaping business, and grew extensive gardens at his home in Kensington.
In 2008, during his time as president, Wayne Goldstein received the Star Cup from the Montgomery County Civic Federation for outstanding public service. Goldstein had served as an officer in the Kensington Heights Citizens Association. He had participated on planning and public safety committees as a member of the civic federation and had served as the first vice president from 2004 to 2006, then as president from 2006 through 2008.
In addition to working with the federation, Goldstein has served on the Montgomery Preservation Inc., a group that promotes and lobbies for historic preservation.
In addition to his mother, Goldstein is survived by two younger brothers who live in New York and Minnesota. Funeral arrangements were being made with Danznsky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel.
Staff Writers C. Benjamin Ford, Douglas Tallman, Sean R. Sedam and Marcus Moore contributed to this report.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04272009/burtnew184158_32549.shtml
by Janel Davis | Staff Writer | Monday, April 27, 2009
Longtime civic activist Wayne Goldstein died of a heart attack Monday morning in Rockville on the way to testify in a hearing before the county's Board of Appeals, family members said Monday afternoon.
Family members and friends reported that Goldstein, 56, was scheduled to appear for the hearing at 9:30 a.m. but never showed up. A card belonging to his cousin, a dentist in the county, was found in his pocket. A call to Goldstein's cousin set off a round of calls to family members, said Goldstein's mother Terry, who lives in Chevy Chase.
Goldstein was reportedly taken to Shady Grove Adventist Hospital in Rockville.
"They wouldn't tell me anything over the phone, but once I arrived they did let me see him and he looked just like he was sleeping," Terry Goldstein said. "I'm devastated. That's my oldest son. It's terrible. It's a shock."
Goldstein was a former president of the county's Civic Federation, a current columnist in The Montgomery County Sentinel newspaper and a consistent advocate for community issues throughout the county.
On the morning of his death, Goldstein was scheduled to testify about Suburban Hospital's planned expansion.
"If ever you can say someone went out with his boots on, Wayne was doing what he loved right up to the very end," said Drew Powell, former executive director of Neighbors PAC, and a fellow civic activist.
Wearing his traditional flat cap and ponytail, Goldstein had become a fixture at County Council and community meetings.
"I knew Wayne as a close friend, a fierce defender of the environment and historic preservation," said Steve Kanstoroom, also a civic activist and past County Council candidate. "He selflessly gave 110 percent to improve the quality of life for county residents, often for people he had never met, never asking anything in return."
Hours after his death, the civic community was lamenting his passing.
"He was a huge figure in the preservation and advocacy realm and there are going to be huge shoes to fill. It's really a sad day for the community," said Eileen Sobeck, vice president of Historic Takoma Inc. "He really was fearless about taking on issues that he felt strongly about. … He was everywhere all the time."
County Council President Philip M. Andrews called Goldstein a "pillar of the civic community."
"It's a terrible loss to his family and to the people of this county. He was a strong advocate for the public interest," Andrews said.
In addition to his civic duties, Goldstein was also well known for his horticultural work. He operated a landscaping business, and grew extensive gardens at his home in Kensington.
In 2008, during his time as president, Wayne Goldstein received the Star Cup from the Montgomery County Civic Federation for outstanding public service. Goldstein had served as an officer in the Kensington Heights Citizens Association. He had participated on planning and public safety committees as a member of the civic federation and had served as the first vice president from 2004 to 2006, then as president from 2006 through 2008.
In addition to working with the federation, Goldstein has served on the Montgomery Preservation Inc., a group that promotes and lobbies for historic preservation.
In addition to his mother, Goldstein is survived by two younger brothers who live in New York and Minnesota. Funeral arrangements were being made with Danznsky-Goldberg Memorial Chapel.
Staff Writers C. Benjamin Ford, Douglas Tallman, Sean R. Sedam and Marcus Moore contributed to this report.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04272009/burtnew184158_32549.shtml
Wayne Goldstein
It is with deep sadness that we report that our friend, Wayne Goldstein, passed away today in Rockville, Maryland.
Wayne was the President of Montgomery Preservation, Inc., past President, Montgomery County Civic Federation, and a hard working member of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board’s Neighborhoods Committee.
It’s hard to think of anybody who has worked harder for the residents of Montgomery County than Wayne Goldstein.
His loss is immeasurable. He will be greatly missed.
More details to follow.
Other pictures of Wayne are at this link...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alanbowser/sets/72157617316792467/detail/
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Safe Silver Spring Summit slated for May 16 - Gazette
Event intended to address recent crime trends in the area
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 22, 2009
In an effort to develop strategies and partnerships that address growing crime concerns in Silver Spring, several local, county and state organizations will come together next month for the first Safe Silver Spring Summit.
The event, held 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. May 16 at Montgomery College's Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus at 7600 Takoma Ave., will consist of presentations on crime prevention and seven workshops that will be held in the morning and afternoon.
The workshops will include experts and residents and will focus on:
Making safe and civil public spaces.
Gangs and pack robberies.
Youth: schools, truants and kids hanging out.
Policing, security, resources and communication.
Why and how to start a Neighborhood Watch (to be conducted in Spanish).
Silver Spring Central Business District.
Residential neighborhoods adjacent to the CBD.
Planning for the summit began last fall in response to concerns about assaults and robberies in Silver Spring's commercial areas and burglaries and vehicle break-ins in residential areas, said Tony Hausner, chairman of the steering committee for the summit.
"Many of the neighborhoods have seen increased crime, particularly last year, and it was getting to the point that it was alarming enough to get us [to act]," Hausner said, citing the shooting death of a Montgomery Blair freshman in November and a fight that broke out at a downtown Silver Spring concert March 7 as events that reinforced those community concerns.
Representatives from agencies including the Montgomery County Police Department's Third District station, the Montgomery County State's Attorney's Office, Montgomery County Public Schools, Casa of Maryland, Councilwoman Valerie Ervin's office and Downtown Silver Spring will be on hand.
Registration is free for residents or organizations that want to participate but space is limited. Register by May 7 by sending an e-mail to SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com or calling 301-431-4185, ext. 212. When registering, residents should specify whether they will attend the morning or afternoon sessions, the two workshop topics they are most interested in and if they need any language translation needs.
A free lunch and coffee in the morning will be provided.
The event is being convened by Prezco, an umbrella group for Silver Spring civic associations, the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board and the Silver Spring Regional Center.
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 22, 2009
In an effort to develop strategies and partnerships that address growing crime concerns in Silver Spring, several local, county and state organizations will come together next month for the first Safe Silver Spring Summit.
The event, held 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. May 16 at Montgomery College's Takoma Park/Silver Spring campus at 7600 Takoma Ave., will consist of presentations on crime prevention and seven workshops that will be held in the morning and afternoon.
The workshops will include experts and residents and will focus on:
Making safe and civil public spaces.
Gangs and pack robberies.
Youth: schools, truants and kids hanging out.
Policing, security, resources and communication.
Why and how to start a Neighborhood Watch (to be conducted in Spanish).
Silver Spring Central Business District.
Residential neighborhoods adjacent to the CBD.
Planning for the summit began last fall in response to concerns about assaults and robberies in Silver Spring's commercial areas and burglaries and vehicle break-ins in residential areas, said Tony Hausner, chairman of the steering committee for the summit.
"Many of the neighborhoods have seen increased crime, particularly last year, and it was getting to the point that it was alarming enough to get us [to act]," Hausner said, citing the shooting death of a Montgomery Blair freshman in November and a fight that broke out at a downtown Silver Spring concert March 7 as events that reinforced those community concerns.
Representatives from agencies including the Montgomery County Police Department's Third District station, the Montgomery County State's Attorney's Office, Montgomery County Public Schools, Casa of Maryland, Councilwoman Valerie Ervin's office and Downtown Silver Spring will be on hand.
Registration is free for residents or organizations that want to participate but space is limited. Register by May 7 by sending an e-mail to SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com or calling 301-431-4185, ext. 212. When registering, residents should specify whether they will attend the morning or afternoon sessions, the two workshop topics they are most interested in and if they need any language translation needs.
A free lunch and coffee in the morning will be provided.
The event is being convened by Prezco, an umbrella group for Silver Spring civic associations, the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board and the Silver Spring Regional Center.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
First Safe Silver Spring Summit to be held on May 16th - Press Release
Contact: Tony Hausner, 301-587-6943 (cell 301-641-0497) thausner@gmail.com
First Safe Silver Spring Summit to be held on May 16th
The First Safe Silver Spring Summit will be held at the Montgomery College, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, 7600 Takoma Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Prezco* (Presidents’ Council of Silver Spring Civic Associations), the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board, and the Silver Spring Regional Center will convene the Summit.
Silver Spring is a revitalized, dynamic and diverse urban and suburban community. The mission of Safe Silver Spring is to develop strategies, partnerships and goals to keep Silver Spring a community where people can live, work, travel, shop and play safely.
The first Safe Silver Spring Summit will bring together citizens, community leaders, non-profit organizations, and public officials to develop an action plan that enables communities to prevent and reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer.
“I want to commend the leaders of Safe Silver Spring for convening our residents in an open and constructive discussion of public safety issues. As a 22-year resident of Silver Spring, I know that our community’s safety is paramount and it is one of my top priorities as your Councilmember,” said Councilmember Valerie Ervin, who represents Silver Spring.
The Summit is in response to increasing concern about assaults and robberies in Silver Spring’s commercial areas and burglaries, vehicle break-ins and thefts in residential areas. Andrew Kleine, Prezco Moderator, believes “Prezco and our partners all feel that law enforcement, the community, businesses and other organizations need to work together to address our concerns with crime and safety in Silver Spring.”
The Summit will consist of overview presentations and seven workshops that will be held in the morning and then repeated in the afternoon. The seven workshop topics are:
1. Making Safe and Civil Public Spaces
2. Gangs and Pack Robberies
3. Youth: Schools, Truants, and Kids Hanging Out
4. Policing, Security, Resources, and Communication
5. Por qué y Cómo Comenzar una Vegilancia Communitaria (Why and How to Start a Neighborhood Watch) (Workshop will be in Spanish)
6. Silver Spring Central Business District (CBD)
7. Residential Neighborhoods adjacent to the SSCBD
Both resource experts and community residents will participate in these workshops to develop action plans to address issues in each of these areas.
Other organizations participating in this Summit include: 3rd District Police District, State Attorney’s Office, Northwest Park Oakview Weed and Seed, Montgomery County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, International Corridor C-Safe, MD Community Crime Prevention Institute, Downtown Silver Spring, Montgomery County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Schools, Safe Takoma, Impact Silver Spring, CASA de Maryland, MD Office of Crime Control and Prevention, USDOJ/COPS, and the Office of Councilmember Valerie Ervin.
Due to space limitations, pre-registration is recommended by May 7. Please send an email to SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com or call 301-431-4185 ext 212 to sign-up.
When registering, attendees will need to specify the morning or afternoon session, provide their first two choices for workshop topics, and indicate if there is a need for language (e.g., Spanish, Amharic, or sign) language translation or other special needs.
*Prezco neighborhoods include: East Silver Spring, Indian Spring, Linden, North Hills of Sligo Creek, North Woodside/Montgomery Hills, Park Hills, Seven Oaks-Evanswood, Sligo Branview, South Silver Spring, Woodside, Woodside Forest, and Woodside Park.
First Safe Silver Spring Summit to be held on May 16th
The First Safe Silver Spring Summit will be held at the Montgomery College, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus, 7600 Takoma Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Prezco* (Presidents’ Council of Silver Spring Civic Associations), the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board, and the Silver Spring Regional Center will convene the Summit.
Silver Spring is a revitalized, dynamic and diverse urban and suburban community. The mission of Safe Silver Spring is to develop strategies, partnerships and goals to keep Silver Spring a community where people can live, work, travel, shop and play safely.
The first Safe Silver Spring Summit will bring together citizens, community leaders, non-profit organizations, and public officials to develop an action plan that enables communities to prevent and reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer.
“I want to commend the leaders of Safe Silver Spring for convening our residents in an open and constructive discussion of public safety issues. As a 22-year resident of Silver Spring, I know that our community’s safety is paramount and it is one of my top priorities as your Councilmember,” said Councilmember Valerie Ervin, who represents Silver Spring.
The Summit is in response to increasing concern about assaults and robberies in Silver Spring’s commercial areas and burglaries, vehicle break-ins and thefts in residential areas. Andrew Kleine, Prezco Moderator, believes “Prezco and our partners all feel that law enforcement, the community, businesses and other organizations need to work together to address our concerns with crime and safety in Silver Spring.”
The Summit will consist of overview presentations and seven workshops that will be held in the morning and then repeated in the afternoon. The seven workshop topics are:
1. Making Safe and Civil Public Spaces
2. Gangs and Pack Robberies
3. Youth: Schools, Truants, and Kids Hanging Out
4. Policing, Security, Resources, and Communication
5. Por qué y Cómo Comenzar una Vegilancia Communitaria (Why and How to Start a Neighborhood Watch) (Workshop will be in Spanish)
6. Silver Spring Central Business District (CBD)
7. Residential Neighborhoods adjacent to the SSCBD
Both resource experts and community residents will participate in these workshops to develop action plans to address issues in each of these areas.
Other organizations participating in this Summit include: 3rd District Police District, State Attorney’s Office, Northwest Park Oakview Weed and Seed, Montgomery County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, International Corridor C-Safe, MD Community Crime Prevention Institute, Downtown Silver Spring, Montgomery County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Schools, Safe Takoma, Impact Silver Spring, CASA de Maryland, MD Office of Crime Control and Prevention, USDOJ/COPS, and the Office of Councilmember Valerie Ervin.
Due to space limitations, pre-registration is recommended by May 7. Please send an email to SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com or call 301-431-4185 ext 212 to sign-up.
When registering, attendees will need to specify the morning or afternoon session, provide their first two choices for workshop topics, and indicate if there is a need for language (e.g., Spanish, Amharic, or sign) language translation or other special needs.
*Prezco neighborhoods include: East Silver Spring, Indian Spring, Linden, North Hills of Sligo Creek, North Woodside/Montgomery Hills, Park Hills, Seven Oaks-Evanswood, Sligo Branview, South Silver Spring, Woodside, Woodside Forest, and Woodside Park.
Safe Silver Spring Summit, May 16, 2009 - News and Registration Information
I. Mission: The mission of Safe Silver Spring is to develop strategies, partnerships and goals to keep Silver Spring a community where people can live, work, travel, shop and play safely.
The first Safe Silver Spring summit will bring together citizens, community leaders, non-profit organizations, and public officials to develop an action plan that enables communities to reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer.
II. Location
Montgomery College
Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus
7600 Takoma Avenue
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Campus Map http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/maps/tpcamp.html
III. Summit agenda - note that the morning and afternoon sessions are identical; attendees should sign up for one or the other
Morning session
8:00 - 8:30 Registration
8:30 - 9:00 Overview
9:10 - 10: 40 7 simultaneous workshops
10:50 - 11:20 Workshop reports, end of morning session
Lunch
11:30 - 12:15 Lunch for all participants
Afternoon session
11:30- 12:00 Registration
12:25 - 12:55 Overview
1:05 - 2:35 7 simultaneous workshops
2:45 - 3:15 Workshop reports, end of afternoon session
Workshop Topics
1. Making Safe and Civil Public Spaces
2. Gangs and Pack Robberies
3. Youth: Schools, Truants, and Kids Hanging Out
4. Policing, Security, Resources and Communication
5. Por qué y Cómo Comenzar una Vegilancia Communitaria (Why and How to Start a Neighborhood Watch) (Workshop will be in Spanish )
6. Central Business District (CBD) of Silver Spring
7. Residential Neighborhoods
IV. Organizations
Lead sponsors:
o Prezco* (Presidents´ Council of Silver Spring Civic Associations)
o SSCAB (Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board)
o Silver Spring Regional Center
Other participating organizations include:
 3rd District Police
 State Attorney´s Office
 Northwest Park Oakview Weed and Seed
 Montgomery County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
 International Corridor C-Safe
 MD Community Crime Prevention Institute
 Downtown Silver Spring
 Montgomery County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Schools
 Safe Takoma
 Impact Silver Spring
 CASA de Maryland
 MD Office of Crime Control and Prevention
 USDOJ/COPS
 Office of Councilmember Valerie Ervin
V. Registration procedures
Advance registration is recommended by May 7th as space is limited. We prefer that attendees contact us via email at following email address: SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com.
For those without access to email, please call 301-431-4185 ext 212
When registering, attendees will need to specify morning or afternoon session, provide their first two choices as to workshop topics, and indicate if there is a need for language (e.g., Spanish, Amharic, sign) translation and other special needs, if any. We would appreciate volunteers to help us with registration, room setups, etc.
Please contact us at the above email address (SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com), if able to help briefly prior to the summit or during the summit.
____________________
*Prezco neighborhoods include: East Silver Spring, Indian Spring, Linden, North Hills of Sligo Creek, North Woodside/Montgomery Hills, Park Hills, Seven Oaks-Evanswood, Sligo Branview, South Silver Spring, Woodside, Woodside Forest, and Woodside Park
The first Safe Silver Spring summit will bring together citizens, community leaders, non-profit organizations, and public officials to develop an action plan that enables communities to reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer.
II. Location
Montgomery College
Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus
7600 Takoma Avenue
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Campus Map http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/maps/tpcamp.html
III. Summit agenda - note that the morning and afternoon sessions are identical; attendees should sign up for one or the other
Morning session
8:00 - 8:30 Registration
8:30 - 9:00 Overview
9:10 - 10: 40 7 simultaneous workshops
10:50 - 11:20 Workshop reports, end of morning session
Lunch
11:30 - 12:15 Lunch for all participants
Afternoon session
11:30- 12:00 Registration
12:25 - 12:55 Overview
1:05 - 2:35 7 simultaneous workshops
2:45 - 3:15 Workshop reports, end of afternoon session
Workshop Topics
1. Making Safe and Civil Public Spaces
2. Gangs and Pack Robberies
3. Youth: Schools, Truants, and Kids Hanging Out
4. Policing, Security, Resources and Communication
5. Por qué y Cómo Comenzar una Vegilancia Communitaria (Why and How to Start a Neighborhood Watch) (Workshop will be in Spanish )
6. Central Business District (CBD) of Silver Spring
7. Residential Neighborhoods
IV. Organizations
Lead sponsors:
o Prezco* (Presidents´ Council of Silver Spring Civic Associations)
o SSCAB (Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board)
o Silver Spring Regional Center
Other participating organizations include:
 3rd District Police
 State Attorney´s Office
 Northwest Park Oakview Weed and Seed
 Montgomery County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
 International Corridor C-Safe
 MD Community Crime Prevention Institute
 Downtown Silver Spring
 Montgomery County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Schools
 Safe Takoma
 Impact Silver Spring
 CASA de Maryland
 MD Office of Crime Control and Prevention
 USDOJ/COPS
 Office of Councilmember Valerie Ervin
V. Registration procedures
Advance registration is recommended by May 7th as space is limited. We prefer that attendees contact us via email at following email address: SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com.
For those without access to email, please call 301-431-4185 ext 212
When registering, attendees will need to specify morning or afternoon session, provide their first two choices as to workshop topics, and indicate if there is a need for language (e.g., Spanish, Amharic, sign) translation and other special needs, if any. We would appreciate volunteers to help us with registration, room setups, etc.
Please contact us at the above email address (SafeSilverSpring@gmail.com), if able to help briefly prior to the summit or during the summit.
____________________
*Prezco neighborhoods include: East Silver Spring, Indian Spring, Linden, North Hills of Sligo Creek, North Woodside/Montgomery Hills, Park Hills, Seven Oaks-Evanswood, Sligo Branview, South Silver Spring, Woodside, Woodside Forest, and Woodside Park
Residents weigh in on names for civic building - Gazette
Former county executives among suggestions posted online
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
While county officials wait to begin a process to name the new Silver Spring Civic Building, residents have wasted no time discussing potential namesakes for the building, sending letters to officials, starting online petitions and taking votes at neighborhood meetings.
The county will form a "naming committee" to consider officials to name the building after and the committee will then make a recommendation to County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) who will have the final say. The building is being constructed at the corner of Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring and is expected to be open in spring 2010.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194036_32477.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
While county officials wait to begin a process to name the new Silver Spring Civic Building, residents have wasted no time discussing potential namesakes for the building, sending letters to officials, starting online petitions and taking votes at neighborhood meetings.
The county will form a "naming committee" to consider officials to name the building after and the committee will then make a recommendation to County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) who will have the final say. The building is being constructed at the corner of Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive in downtown Silver Spring and is expected to be open in spring 2010.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194036_32477.shtml
Two armed robbery suspects in police custody - Gazette
Montgomery County Police have issued warrants for males being held in the District
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Two teenagers police believe are responsible for armed robberies last week at two businesses in Silver Spring and one in Takoma Park were taken into custody Friday after eluding police in Prince George's County and Washington, D.C.
Police are still looking for two other males in connection with the robberies.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194037_32480.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Two teenagers police believe are responsible for armed robberies last week at two businesses in Silver Spring and one in Takoma Park were taken into custody Friday after eluding police in Prince George's County and Washington, D.C.
Police are still looking for two other males in connection with the robberies.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194037_32480.shtml
Farmers market returns to Downtown Silver Spring Saturday - Gazette
Jason Tomassini | April 15, 2009
The 2009 FreshFarm Farmers Market will begin 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and run every Saturday through Dec. 19, the longest run in its five-year history.
For the second year, the market will be held along Ellsworth Drive between Fenton Street and Georgia Avenue in Downtown Silver Spring. Last year, it ran through November, and in 2007 it ran from May 5 to Oct. 27.
"Every year the market gets better and better as far as more customers and sales to farmers," said Janna Howley, Maryland markets and marketing manager for FreshFarm.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194037_32481.shtml
The 2009 FreshFarm Farmers Market will begin 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and run every Saturday through Dec. 19, the longest run in its five-year history.
For the second year, the market will be held along Ellsworth Drive between Fenton Street and Georgia Avenue in Downtown Silver Spring. Last year, it ran through November, and in 2007 it ran from May 5 to Oct. 27.
"Every year the market gets better and better as far as more customers and sales to farmers," said Janna Howley, Maryland markets and marketing manager for FreshFarm.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194037_32481.shtml
Bill would keep parking revenues close to home - Gazette
Talk of the Town | Jason Tomassini | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Montgomery County Councilmembers introduced a bill Tuesday that would allow revenues from the county's four "parking lot districts" to be used to fund transit services in those parking lot districts.
The bill states that parking fee revenues would be used only to fund transit services within the same district from which the revenue is derived. So, revenues from the Silver Spring parking lot district, for example, could only go toward transit services within Silver Spring.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194036_32478.shtml
Montgomery County Councilmembers introduced a bill Tuesday that would allow revenues from the county's four "parking lot districts" to be used to fund transit services in those parking lot districts.
The bill states that parking fee revenues would be used only to fund transit services within the same district from which the revenue is derived. So, revenues from the Silver Spring parking lot district, for example, could only go toward transit services within Silver Spring.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194036_32478.shtml
Board supports Crossroads recommendations - Gazette
Planners remain concerned about preserving ethnic businesses, affordable housing in Takoma/Langley revitalization
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Montgomery County Planning Board supported most of the recommendations made by county staff for the upcoming revitalization of New Hampshire Avenue, but split over how to improve the residential and commercial district without pushing out the ethnic businesses and low-income residents who live there.
The staff report recommended, among other things, the light-rail option for the Purple Line, mixed-use residential and retail space in the five major shopping centers at the Takoma/Langley Crossroads and efforts to keep affordable housing options open for residents.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194030_32473.shtml
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Montgomery County Planning Board supported most of the recommendations made by county staff for the upcoming revitalization of New Hampshire Avenue, but split over how to improve the residential and commercial district without pushing out the ethnic businesses and low-income residents who live there.
The staff report recommended, among other things, the light-rail option for the Purple Line, mixed-use residential and retail space in the five major shopping centers at the Takoma/Langley Crossroads and efforts to keep affordable housing options open for residents.
http://gazette.net/stories/04152009/silvnew194030_32473.shtml
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Earth Day Events in Silver Spring!
Think globally and act locally by supporting these Silver Spring Earth Day 2009 events.
On Saturday...
Annual Long Branch Earth Day Clean Up, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9 a.m. to noon. Participants should meet at the Long Branch Community Center 8700 Piney Branch Road to begin the clean up of Long Branch Creek. Bags and gloves will be provided on site. Participants will receive a commemorative Anacostia Watershed Earth Day shopping bag while supplies last.
Earth Day, Broad Acres Park, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Come see “renovated” Broad Acres Park and its sitting plaza with over 100 tiles containing student artwork. Come help clean the park.
On Sunday...
Clean the Creek in Park Hills with Friends of Sligo Creek – April 19th. It's that time again! Jennifer Kefer is organizing a Sunday clean-up with Friends of Sligo Creek from 1:00-3:00 on Sunday April 19. We will be meeting at the track adjacent to the Silver Spring International Middle School (Wayne and Sligo). She will provide gloves, bags and water. Students will receive school-community service credit. There will be additional clean-ups on Saturday morning April 18 as well. For more information contact, Jennifer at 202-365-2194.
On Saturday...
Annual Long Branch Earth Day Clean Up, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9 a.m. to noon. Participants should meet at the Long Branch Community Center 8700 Piney Branch Road to begin the clean up of Long Branch Creek. Bags and gloves will be provided on site. Participants will receive a commemorative Anacostia Watershed Earth Day shopping bag while supplies last.
Earth Day, Broad Acres Park, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Come see “renovated” Broad Acres Park and its sitting plaza with over 100 tiles containing student artwork. Come help clean the park.
On Sunday...
Clean the Creek in Park Hills with Friends of Sligo Creek – April 19th. It's that time again! Jennifer Kefer is organizing a Sunday clean-up with Friends of Sligo Creek from 1:00-3:00 on Sunday April 19. We will be meeting at the track adjacent to the Silver Spring International Middle School (Wayne and Sligo). She will provide gloves, bags and water. Students will receive school-community service credit. There will be additional clean-ups on Saturday morning April 18 as well. For more information contact, Jennifer at 202-365-2194.
Silver Spring Calendar for April - May
Silver Spring Library Charrettes, first meeting Thursday, April 16 Conceptual design work on the Library is moving forward. An elevated pedestrian bridge from the Wayne Avenue Parking Garage to the Library is planned to provide adequate parking, and easily accessible pedestrian and handicapped accessibility.
An amendment to the Silver Spring Urban Renewal Plan is required to permit construction of a pedestrian bridge above Wayne Avenue. The draft amendment was drafted by Gary Stith and reviewed by the Department of Public Libraries, and the Office of the County Attorney.
Montgomery County Public Libraries and Montgomery County Department of General Services will hold four charettes to receive input on the exterior design of the new Silver Spring Library. All meeting will be held from 7-9 p.m. at the Coffield Center on the following dates:
• Thursday, April 16
• Thursday, May 7
• Thursday, May 28
• Thursday, June 18.
Annual Long Branch Earth Day Clean Up, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9 a.m. to noon. Participants should meet at the Long Branch Community Center 8700 Piney Branch Road to begin the clean up of Long Branch Creek. Bags and gloves will be provided on site. Participants will receive a commemorative Anacostia Watershed Earth Day shopping bag while supplies last.
Earth Day, Broad Acres Park, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Come see “renovated” Broad Acres Park and its sitting plaza with over 100 tiles containing student artwork. Come help clean the park.
Fresh Farm Market Opens in Downtown Silver Spring, Saturday, April 18, 2009
Earth Day 5K Silver Spring Run, Sunday April 19, 2009. Pacers Running Stores is sponsoring a downtown Silver Spring 5K run. Registrants will receive bamboo socks, reusable grocery totes and organic tees. Check the website at www.silverspring5k.com for details.
Fenton Street Village Forum, Wednesday, April 22, 2009 The second of a series of three forums will be held on Wednesday, April 22 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Nora School. This event is organized by the Neighborhoods Committee and the Commercial Economic Development Committees of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board. The event is planned as an interactive discussion concerning the urban village concept and implementation in Fenton Street Village.
Youth Job Expo, Saturday, April 25. The Maryland Multicultural Youth Center, Montgomery Workforce Investment Board, Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery County Department of Economic Development, Montgomery Works One Stop Career Center and Peterson Management, LC and the Silver Spring Regional Center is sponsoring the “Let’s get It Started Youth Job Expo 2009.” The event will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Ellsworth Drive. Activities at the Youth Job Expo will include job preparation classes, workshops, music, motivational speakers, prizes, and much more. Our office was informed that 70 potential employers will be present. The Montgomery County Police, Fire and Rescue and the Regional Center have participated in the planning of this event. For more information on the event and all activities please check the website at www.letsgetitstartedyouthjobfair.com
Long Branch Unity Day, Saturday May 2, 2009 Annual Community Event sponsored by the Recreation Department.
Long Branch Celebrity Basketball Game, Saturday, May 2, 2009 Fifth consecutive Celebrity Basketball Game. The game will be part of the Long Branch Community Unity Day Festival and will take place at 2 p.m. at the Long Branch Community Center. A recommended donation of $5 will be accepted at the door. All proceeds from the event will go towards creating constructive out of school activities for youth in the community.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration in Downtown Silver Spring, May 5, 2009
First Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival in Downtown Silver Spring, Saturday, May 9, 2009 from 2 pm to 6 pm. One day festival features great blues music, face painting, clowns, magicians, moon bounce, crafts, and a musical petting zoo!
Save Silver Spring Summit, Saturday, May 16, 2009, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Montgomery College Takoma Park. Presco and others are sponsoring a Save Silver Spring Summit to develop strategies, partnerships, and goals to keep Silver Spring a community where people can live, work, travel, shop and play without fear of their persons or property. For more information contact Tony Hausner at thausner@gmail.com
An amendment to the Silver Spring Urban Renewal Plan is required to permit construction of a pedestrian bridge above Wayne Avenue. The draft amendment was drafted by Gary Stith and reviewed by the Department of Public Libraries, and the Office of the County Attorney.
Montgomery County Public Libraries and Montgomery County Department of General Services will hold four charettes to receive input on the exterior design of the new Silver Spring Library. All meeting will be held from 7-9 p.m. at the Coffield Center on the following dates:
• Thursday, April 16
• Thursday, May 7
• Thursday, May 28
• Thursday, June 18.
Annual Long Branch Earth Day Clean Up, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9 a.m. to noon. Participants should meet at the Long Branch Community Center 8700 Piney Branch Road to begin the clean up of Long Branch Creek. Bags and gloves will be provided on site. Participants will receive a commemorative Anacostia Watershed Earth Day shopping bag while supplies last.
Earth Day, Broad Acres Park, Saturday, April 18, 2009, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Come see “renovated” Broad Acres Park and its sitting plaza with over 100 tiles containing student artwork. Come help clean the park.
Fresh Farm Market Opens in Downtown Silver Spring, Saturday, April 18, 2009
Earth Day 5K Silver Spring Run, Sunday April 19, 2009. Pacers Running Stores is sponsoring a downtown Silver Spring 5K run. Registrants will receive bamboo socks, reusable grocery totes and organic tees. Check the website at www.silverspring5k.com for details.
Fenton Street Village Forum, Wednesday, April 22, 2009 The second of a series of three forums will be held on Wednesday, April 22 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Nora School. This event is organized by the Neighborhoods Committee and the Commercial Economic Development Committees of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board. The event is planned as an interactive discussion concerning the urban village concept and implementation in Fenton Street Village.
Youth Job Expo, Saturday, April 25. The Maryland Multicultural Youth Center, Montgomery Workforce Investment Board, Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery County Department of Economic Development, Montgomery Works One Stop Career Center and Peterson Management, LC and the Silver Spring Regional Center is sponsoring the “Let’s get It Started Youth Job Expo 2009.” The event will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Ellsworth Drive. Activities at the Youth Job Expo will include job preparation classes, workshops, music, motivational speakers, prizes, and much more. Our office was informed that 70 potential employers will be present. The Montgomery County Police, Fire and Rescue and the Regional Center have participated in the planning of this event. For more information on the event and all activities please check the website at www.letsgetitstartedyouthjobfair.com
Long Branch Unity Day, Saturday May 2, 2009 Annual Community Event sponsored by the Recreation Department.
Long Branch Celebrity Basketball Game, Saturday, May 2, 2009 Fifth consecutive Celebrity Basketball Game. The game will be part of the Long Branch Community Unity Day Festival and will take place at 2 p.m. at the Long Branch Community Center. A recommended donation of $5 will be accepted at the door. All proceeds from the event will go towards creating constructive out of school activities for youth in the community.
Cinco de Mayo Celebration in Downtown Silver Spring, May 5, 2009
First Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival in Downtown Silver Spring, Saturday, May 9, 2009 from 2 pm to 6 pm. One day festival features great blues music, face painting, clowns, magicians, moon bounce, crafts, and a musical petting zoo!
Save Silver Spring Summit, Saturday, May 16, 2009, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Montgomery College Takoma Park. Presco and others are sponsoring a Save Silver Spring Summit to develop strategies, partnerships, and goals to keep Silver Spring a community where people can live, work, travel, shop and play without fear of their persons or property. For more information contact Tony Hausner at thausner@gmail.com
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Sidewalk projects await decision on brick pavers - Gazette
Council weighing the use of the streetscaping material in urban districts
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
A County Council proposal to eliminate the use of brick pavers on right of way sidewalks would have a big impact on downtown Wheaton if passed, said officials with the Mid-County Regional Services Center.
Brick pavers are the most-used streetscaping material in Wheaton's Urban District and in other parts of the county, said Joe Callaway, the chief of operations for the urban district. But some oppose the use of the pavers because they can pose hazards to pedestrians, especially the handicapped, if they're poorly installed.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/wheanew193820_32488.shtml
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
A County Council proposal to eliminate the use of brick pavers on right of way sidewalks would have a big impact on downtown Wheaton if passed, said officials with the Mid-County Regional Services Center.
Brick pavers are the most-used streetscaping material in Wheaton's Urban District and in other parts of the county, said Joe Callaway, the chief of operations for the urban district. But some oppose the use of the pavers because they can pose hazards to pedestrians, especially the handicapped, if they're poorly installed.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/wheanew193820_32488.shtml
Leggett defends Silver Spring Live Nation project - Gazette
Executive writes Senate to save funding for 30,000-square foot music hall
by Sean R. Sedam | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
ANNAPOLIS—Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett has written to the chairman of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee defending the Live Nation project proposed for downtown Silver Spring.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/montnew194617_32470.shtml
by Sean R. Sedam | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
ANNAPOLIS—Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett has written to the chairman of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee defending the Live Nation project proposed for downtown Silver Spring.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/montnew194617_32470.shtml
Housing indicators results no surprise to council - Gazette
Takoma Park officials say study helpful in measuring city against other parts of council, but confirms what they already know
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Takoma Park residents have far lower incomes, on average, than residents in the rest of the county, although the city's abundance of affordable housing has allowed residents to remain living there, according to a report designed to guide policymakers and address problems in Takoma Park.
Preliminary findings from the Takoma Park Housing Indicators Project, conducted by a 12-person work group of local tenants, homeowners and real estate agents, examined housing affordability, quality, opportunity, neighborhood stability and accessibility to community amenities.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184850_32474.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Takoma Park residents have far lower incomes, on average, than residents in the rest of the county, although the city's abundance of affordable housing has allowed residents to remain living there, according to a report designed to guide policymakers and address problems in Takoma Park.
Preliminary findings from the Takoma Park Housing Indicators Project, conducted by a 12-person work group of local tenants, homeowners and real estate agents, examined housing affordability, quality, opportunity, neighborhood stability and accessibility to community amenities.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184850_32474.shtml
Despite popularity elsewhere, residents reject community gardens - Gazette
South Silver Spring site removed from county plans; neighbors say they weren't involved in process
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Montgomery County's first public community gardens will come to Takoma Park and Sandy Spring next month but a proposed site for south Silver Spring was removed from plans due to complaints from residents who said the county did not involve them in the planning process.
On May 15, the county's Parks Department will open a community garden at Sligo Mill Park, which is also known as Sligo Overlook Park, on Orchard Drive in Takoma Park and another off Layhill Road in Sandy Spring, near the Red Door Country Store. A community garden is a plot of public land where local residents can purchase space to garden.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184851_32476.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Montgomery County's first public community gardens will come to Takoma Park and Sandy Spring next month but a proposed site for south Silver Spring was removed from plans due to complaints from residents who said the county did not involve them in the planning process.
On May 15, the county's Parks Department will open a community garden at Sligo Mill Park, which is also known as Sligo Overlook Park, on Orchard Drive in Takoma Park and another off Layhill Road in Sandy Spring, near the Red Door Country Store. A community garden is a plot of public land where local residents can purchase space to garden.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184851_32476.shtml
Curfew, teen space among suggestions for downtown area - Gazette
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer | Wednesday, April 8, 2009
In response to a fight at a youth concert last month, residents near downtown Silver Spring have suggested a curfew for teens downtown and space dedicated for youth events while officials will enforce a time and decibel level limit on downtown events.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184842_32472.shtml
In response to a fight at a youth concert last month, residents near downtown Silver Spring have suggested a curfew for teens downtown and space dedicated for youth events while officials will enforce a time and decibel level limit on downtown events.
http://gazette.net/stories/04082009/silvnew184842_32472.shtml
Pitcher’s Death Stuns Angels and Baseball - New York Times
April 10, 2009By PAUL OBERJUERGE
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Only a few hours after the most promising performance of his major league career, Nick Adenhart, a 22-year-old pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, was one of three people killed early Thursday when the car they were traveling in was struck by a vehicle driven by a suspected drunken driver.
Adenhart was a passenger in a Mitsubishi Eclipse that was broadsided by a minivan whose driver had run a red light, the police said. The crash occurred about five miles from Angel Stadium in Fullerton, about 25 miles south of Los Angeles.
Adenhart, a right-hander, pitched six scoreless innings against the Athletics on Wednesday night, giving up seven hits and three walks but working out of several tight situations. After the game, Adenhart told reporters he felt “just a lot more relaxed, self-confident.”
Adenhart, a native of Silver Spring, Md., was considered the top pitching prospect in the Angels organization. He had a strong spring, but he might have opened the season with the club’s Class AAA affiliate in Salt Lake City had not the veteran pitchers John Lackey and Ervin Santana sustained injuries.
Billy Witz contributed reporting from Fullerton, Calif., and Ben Shpigel from Cincinnati.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/10/sports/baseball/10angels.html?ref=baseball
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. Announces 2009 Blues Festival Sponsors
The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is pleased to announce the sponsors for this year’s Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring.
The following organizations have agreed to be sponsors for the 2009 Blues Festival to be held on Saturday, May 9th from 2 pm to 6 pm on Ellsworth Drive near the Silver Fountain:
• DC Blues Society
• Montgomery College
• PFA Investments, LLC
• Silver Spring Regional Services Center
• The Silver Spring Penguin
• The Silver Spring Voice
• Three Keys Music
“We are proud that some of Silver Spring’s most outstanding community-based organizations are supporting the first Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival,” said Alan Bowser, president of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. “These organizations are working hard everyday to strengthen the local community, and they share our vision to enhance the opportunities for exciting arts and humanities programming for Silver Spring and Montgomery County. Silver Spring’s blues festival will be a real celebration of our special community.”
The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is a Silver Spring 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which was established to provide arts, entertainment and humanities programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza to be completed in 2010.
Visit SSTCi’s partners online at www.montgomerycollege.edu, www.threekeys.com, www.dcblues.org, www.downtownsilverspring.com, www.silverspringpenguin.com, and www.silverspringvoice.com
For more event information and directions, visit www.silverspringblues.com
The following organizations have agreed to be sponsors for the 2009 Blues Festival to be held on Saturday, May 9th from 2 pm to 6 pm on Ellsworth Drive near the Silver Fountain:
• DC Blues Society
• Montgomery College
• PFA Investments, LLC
• Silver Spring Regional Services Center
• The Silver Spring Penguin
• The Silver Spring Voice
• Three Keys Music
“We are proud that some of Silver Spring’s most outstanding community-based organizations are supporting the first Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival,” said Alan Bowser, president of the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. “These organizations are working hard everyday to strengthen the local community, and they share our vision to enhance the opportunities for exciting arts and humanities programming for Silver Spring and Montgomery County. Silver Spring’s blues festival will be a real celebration of our special community.”
The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is a Silver Spring 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which was established to provide arts, entertainment and humanities programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza to be completed in 2010.
Visit SSTCi’s partners online at www.montgomerycollege.edu, www.threekeys.com, www.dcblues.org, www.downtownsilverspring.com, www.silverspringpenguin.com, and www.silverspringvoice.com
For more event information and directions, visit www.silverspringblues.com
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Silver Spring blues singer digs up inspiration from home - Examiner
.jpg)
Christina Lee | DC Live Music Examiner | April 7, 2009
The traditional blues sounds of Jonny Grave and his acoustic guitar evoke nothing but years of traveling with only the guidance of railways. But the truth is, as he played to a small crowd at McGinty's Thursday night, Grave was actually performing right at home.
As he proves through his music, this 20-something-year-old has not had to travel far from Silver Spring, Md., to find something to sing about. But the more he has learned over the years, the more he has gained a respectable appreciation for authenticity – and to mention, some mean finger-picking skills.
Q. How did your father introduce you to blues music, and what role does he play in your music career today?
A. My father has guitars all around the house, and there's always some kind of music playing. My little sister plays cello and bass, and she sings as well, my mother will more often than not sing while cooking, my three older sisters either sing or play... it's safe to say we're a musical family. My dad was a professional musician back in the day, playing folk music in D.C., and has since moved out of that profession to raise a family, but he kept all the gear. So half the guitars I play are hand-me-downs, some of my cables, and a few microphones as well. My family, not just my father, is a huge, positive influence on my music.
Q. On your YouTube page, you list off a bunch of your favorite musicians: R.L. Burnside, Mississippi Fred McDowell, Chris Smither, etc. Of all of those though, who have been your biggest influences and why?
A. As far as the blues go, I found most of what I play and what I listen to on my own. My dad's record collection is extensive, but it's mostly in the folk/bluegrass genre. He did however have a copy of an Oxford Magazine sampler CD, featuring the sounds of R.L. Burnside and Blind Willie Johnson. This was my introduction to the blues. I was stolen away by the language of these people, and my feet couldn't stop moving with the sounds the guitar stings made. Johnson's slide work was what made me want to start playing that kind of music. Burnside and McDowell came in a bit later, and they shaped a lot of my style – I like to say I'm stealing Burnside's right hand and McDowell's left. Smither had an impact on me, too. I always thought of him as a songwriter before anything else, and his work was what helped me learn how to write my own. They're all big influences on me, and it's too hard to say which is the biggest.
Q. Bonifant Street and Quarry House Tavern both serve as subject matters in your latest album. What exactly about these Silver Spring locations inspires you to write music?
A. Bonifant Street is probably my favorite part of Silver Spring. It's the only place I know what you can find a gun shop across the street from a bank. Fenton Village in general is this wonderful, little kitschy corner of Silver Spring that has avoided the “revitalization” that's graced the rest of the town with chain restaurants and corporate art. On this block, you'll find a church thrift store where I found my favorite pair of jeans, a old fortune teller lady who makes her own incense, a used bookstore, an Ethiopian coffee shop ... the best damned Thai restaurant I can think of … and at the very end, on the corner of Georgia [Avenue], you'll find the Quarry House Tavern, thirteen steps below the street. I cut my teeth playing blues there. I played the third Wednesday of every month, from 9 to midnight. This place is the definition of a dive bar – greasy food, cheap beer, and a lot of fun stories. I don't play there as much now, and when I do, I'm usually opening up for one of the rockabilly bands they have on Saturday nights. But when I do, I always publicize the event with "Silver Spring's Own Comes Back Home.” Your feet stick to the floor in that place, but they sure as hell take care of you.
Q. While I saw you at McGinty’s, you’ve performed in a bunch of different environments: coffeehouses, summer camps, classrooms and soon the Washington Folk Festival at the end of the month. Where has been your favorite place to perform and why?
A. I started playing professionally when I was 16. Since then, it's been everywhere from street corners and metro stops, to huge outdoor festivals and the University of Maryland. But my one favorite place to play, and this only happens once a year, is the Washington Folk Festival at Glen Echo Park. I've been going there since I was born. My dad plays that festival, all of my sisters have been onstage, our family friends perform there. It's a really nice, close-knit community. It feels like coming home whenever I get down there. There are people there who I’ve never met but know my family so well they'll call me by name. What makes it great is, the venue is all about the music and the community. It's not like a bar, where I have to compete with the basketball game on TV, or the cook shouting orders, or the bouncers trying to throw someone out. So I'll perform on stage for a slot, but the real fun is getting to kick around the festival all weekend, listening to all kinds of music, and jamming with different people.
Q. With a few albums out and a tour in the works now, where do you see yourself going with your music next?
A. Truth be told, I've always wanted to play with a full band. I feel like that might be the next step for my music. I love this traditional stuff so much, and it's a big part of who I am. But there is an electric side to the hill country genre, and I'm excited to try that side out for a spell. I'm headed down south next week to open up for some of my heroes [Kenny Brown and Cedric Burnside] in Alabama, and I'll be playing in a band that night. So I guess we'll see how it goes.
http://www.examiner.com/x-7091-DC-Live-Music-Examiner~y2009m4d7-Silver-Spring-blues-singer-digs-up-inspiration-from-home
Monday, April 6, 2009
Wheaton Town Meeting on Crime Prevention - April 20th
Subject: Town Meeting on Crime Prevention - April 20th
A Town Meeting on Crime Prevention - Perception, Reality, and Awareness will be held on Monday, April 20th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the Wheaton High School Auditorium - 12601 Dalewood Drive in Wheaton. Discussion topics include: information on crime statistics; what are nuisance crimes and what are we doing about them; summer crime prevention & teen programs; and gang awareness & prevention.
Panelists and subject matter experts will include represenatives from the following organizations: Montgomery County Police; MCPS School Security; Montgomery County Park Police; WMATA (Metro); Health and Human Services; Department of Recreation; State's Attorney's Office; Department of Liquor Control; and Westfield Shoppingtown Wheaton. Following the panel discussion a Question & Answer period will be held. All representatives will be available for one-on-one discussions.
For more information call the Mid-County Regional Center at 240-777-8100 or email us at midcounty.citizen@montgomerycountymd.gov
A Town Meeting on Crime Prevention - Perception, Reality, and Awareness will be held on Monday, April 20th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the Wheaton High School Auditorium - 12601 Dalewood Drive in Wheaton. Discussion topics include: information on crime statistics; what are nuisance crimes and what are we doing about them; summer crime prevention & teen programs; and gang awareness & prevention.
Panelists and subject matter experts will include represenatives from the following organizations: Montgomery County Police; MCPS School Security; Montgomery County Park Police; WMATA (Metro); Health and Human Services; Department of Recreation; State's Attorney's Office; Department of Liquor Control; and Westfield Shoppingtown Wheaton. Following the panel discussion a Question & Answer period will be held. All representatives will be available for one-on-one discussions.
For more information call the Mid-County Regional Center at 240-777-8100 or email us at midcounty.citizen@montgomerycountymd.gov
Four Public Charrettes Announced for New Silver Spring Library
For Immediate Release: April 6, 2009
Four Public Charrettes Announced For New Silver Spring Library
Input sought on exterior design elements
Four Public Charrettes will be held over the next three months to gather feedback from residents on the exterior design of the new Silver Spring Library.
Hosted by Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) and the County’s Department of General Services’ (DGS) Building, Design and Construction Section, the meetings will be held according to the following schedule:
· Thursday, April 16 – Background on building program and schedule, library organization plan, public open space and the proposed bridge;
· Thursday, May 7 – Presentation of initial building and open space concepts;
· Thursday, May 28 – Presentation of and feedback on refined concepts; and
· Thursday, June 18 – Presentation of and feedback on plans to be recommended to MCPL and DGS directors re the library’s specific site and exterior design plan, including elevations and LEED elements.
All meetings will be held at the Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center, 2450 Lyttonsville Rd. in Silver Spring from 7 to 9 p.m.
The center is served by the Montgomery County Ride On Bus 2, operating from the Silver Spring Metro Station and stopping at Lyttonsville Road and Lyttonsville Lane. It is less than a mile walk from the bus stop to the Community Center. Attendees can also take the J2 Metrobus from the Silver Spring Metro Station to East West Highway and Grubb Road. The community center is about three blocks from that location.
To request ADA program accommodations, contact the Silver Spring Library at 240-773-9420 at least five working days in advance of the charrette date.
Four Public Charrettes Announced For New Silver Spring Library
Input sought on exterior design elements
Four Public Charrettes will be held over the next three months to gather feedback from residents on the exterior design of the new Silver Spring Library.
Hosted by Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) and the County’s Department of General Services’ (DGS) Building, Design and Construction Section, the meetings will be held according to the following schedule:
· Thursday, April 16 – Background on building program and schedule, library organization plan, public open space and the proposed bridge;
· Thursday, May 7 – Presentation of initial building and open space concepts;
· Thursday, May 28 – Presentation of and feedback on refined concepts; and
· Thursday, June 18 – Presentation of and feedback on plans to be recommended to MCPL and DGS directors re the library’s specific site and exterior design plan, including elevations and LEED elements.
All meetings will be held at the Gwendolyn Coffield Community Center, 2450 Lyttonsville Rd. in Silver Spring from 7 to 9 p.m.
The center is served by the Montgomery County Ride On Bus 2, operating from the Silver Spring Metro Station and stopping at Lyttonsville Road and Lyttonsville Lane. It is less than a mile walk from the bus stop to the Community Center. Attendees can also take the J2 Metrobus from the Silver Spring Metro Station to East West Highway and Grubb Road. The community center is about three blocks from that location.
To request ADA program accommodations, contact the Silver Spring Library at 240-773-9420 at least five working days in advance of the charrette date.
County Executive's Tenants Work Group is having a series of public meetings
We want to hear from renters in Montgomery County!
The County Executive’s Tenants Work Group is having a series of public meetings to hear from residents who live in rental housing. This information will help inform their final report to the County Executive. Please come and share your experiences, concerns and ideas!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Upcounty Regional Center
12900 Middlebrook Rd
Germantown, MD 20874
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Long Branch Community Center
8700 Piney Branch Road
Silver Spring, MD 20901
For additional information or special accommodations, (including language translation)
call Megan Moriarty, 240-247-0283 or visit: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/Content/EXEC/TWG/home.asp
The County Executive’s Tenants Work Group is having a series of public meetings to hear from residents who live in rental housing. This information will help inform their final report to the County Executive. Please come and share your experiences, concerns and ideas!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Upcounty Regional Center
12900 Middlebrook Rd
Germantown, MD 20874
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Long Branch Community Center
8700 Piney Branch Road
Silver Spring, MD 20901
For additional information or special accommodations, (including language translation)
call Megan Moriarty, 240-247-0283 or visit: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/Content/EXEC/TWG/home.asp
Friday, April 3, 2009
Silver Spring Blues Festival Set for Saturday, May 9, 2009 in Downtown Silver Spring
For Immediate Release Contact: Alan Bowser, 301-608-3932
SILVER SPRING BLUES FESTIVAL SET FOR SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2009
Silver Spring, MD. April 3, 2009. The first Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2009. The festival will be held, 2 pm to 6 pm, on Ellsworth Drive between Georgia Avenue and Fenton Street.
The one-day event will feature local and regional blues stars playing acoustic and electric blues. Among the festival activities will be crafts, face painting, magicians, clowns, and a musical petting zoo.
Silver Spring acoustic blues star, Jonny Grave, will perform on the stage near the Silver Fountain on Ellsworth Drive.
The exciting electric blues line up includes the DC Blues Society Blues Band, and the winner of the 2009 Battle of the Bands competition at the Surf Club, and a very special guest headliner.
The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is a Silver Spring nonprofit organization which was established to provide exciting arts, entertainment and humanities programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza to be completed in 2010.
The Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring is sponsored by the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., in partnership with the DC Blues Society, Montgomery College, Three Keys Music and the Peterson Cos.
For more information, visit www.silverspringblues.com
Visit the event partners online at
www.montgomerycollege.edu, www.threekeys.com, www.dcblues.org, www.downtownsilverspring.com and www.silverspringtowncenter.com
SILVER SPRING BLUES FESTIVAL SET FOR SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2009
Silver Spring, MD. April 3, 2009. The first Annual Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring will take place on Saturday, May 9, 2009. The festival will be held, 2 pm to 6 pm, on Ellsworth Drive between Georgia Avenue and Fenton Street.
The one-day event will feature local and regional blues stars playing acoustic and electric blues. Among the festival activities will be crafts, face painting, magicians, clowns, and a musical petting zoo.
Silver Spring acoustic blues star, Jonny Grave, will perform on the stage near the Silver Fountain on Ellsworth Drive.
The exciting electric blues line up includes the DC Blues Society Blues Band, and the winner of the 2009 Battle of the Bands competition at the Surf Club, and a very special guest headliner.
The Silver Spring Town Center, Inc. is a Silver Spring nonprofit organization which was established to provide exciting arts, entertainment and humanities programming for the Silver Spring Civic Building and Veterans Plaza to be completed in 2010.
The Silver Spring Blues Festival at Downtown Silver Spring is sponsored by the Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., in partnership with the DC Blues Society, Montgomery College, Three Keys Music and the Peterson Cos.
For more information, visit www.silverspringblues.com
Visit the event partners online at
www.montgomerycollege.edu, www.threekeys.com, www.dcblues.org, www.downtownsilverspring.com and www.silverspringtowncenter.com
Silver Spring Swings Summer Concert Series 2009
Montgomery County has announced its Silver Spring Swings Summer Concert Series 2009
Thursdays 7-9pm Silver Plaza @ the "fountain."
June 18 Jennifer Cutting & Ocean Orchestra -- folk-rock, Celtic
June 25 Second Wind -- rock& roll covers
July 2 The Fabulous Bel Airs – oldies-50s & 60s
July 9 The David Bach Consort – world jazz
July 16 The Knockout Kings vs. Bruce Ewan – blues from Spain
July 23 Eliot Levine – r&b, funk
July 30 Eddie Becker Band– rock, soul, R&B
August 6 Verny Varela – salsa
www.silverspringdowntown.com for more information.
Thursdays 7-9pm Silver Plaza @ the "fountain."
June 18 Jennifer Cutting & Ocean Orchestra -- folk-rock, Celtic
June 25 Second Wind -- rock& roll covers
July 2 The Fabulous Bel Airs – oldies-50s & 60s
July 9 The David Bach Consort – world jazz
July 16 The Knockout Kings vs. Bruce Ewan – blues from Spain
July 23 Eliot Levine – r&b, funk
July 30 Eddie Becker Band– rock, soul, R&B
August 6 Verny Varela – salsa
www.silverspringdowntown.com for more information.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Substation closure won't affect service, police say - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Budget cuts threaten Third District's Long Branch post
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The potential closure of a substation in Long Branch would not affect Montgomery County Police officers' ability to patrol the area, police officials said, but residents and business owners say losing the building could alter the community's feeling of safety.
Pending the County Council's approval of County Executive Isiah Leggett's fiscal 2010 budget, the Third District Police substation at Piney Branch Road and Flower Avenue could close because of county police budget cuts, said Capt. Donald M. Johnson, Third District commander. Johnson said no officers would be lost, and no MCPD staff is stationed full time in the substation.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184741_32470.shtml
Budget cuts threaten Third District's Long Branch post
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The potential closure of a substation in Long Branch would not affect Montgomery County Police officers' ability to patrol the area, police officials said, but residents and business owners say losing the building could alter the community's feeling of safety.
Pending the County Council's approval of County Executive Isiah Leggett's fiscal 2010 budget, the Third District Police substation at Piney Branch Road and Flower Avenue could close because of county police budget cuts, said Capt. Donald M. Johnson, Third District commander. Johnson said no officers would be lost, and no MCPD staff is stationed full time in the substation.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184741_32470.shtml
Pedestrian improvements to Second Avenue unveiled - Gazette
April 1, 2009
Seniors say they can more safely cross Silver Spring street
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
Some of the 14 improvements made to Second Avenue include relocated bus stops, wider crosswalks and sidewalks and an audible crossing signal for blind pedestrians at Second and Fenwick that announces when it is OK to cross.
The improvements are paid for in part by Leggett's Pedestrian Safety Initiative that launched last year. Leggett allocated a $4 million increase for pedestrian safety in this year's proposed budget.
"There are too many deaths, too many people are dying," Leggett said of the increased focus on pedestrian safety. The county averaged 14 pedestrian deaths per year between 2003 and 2006, and 17 in 2007.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew115205_32487.shtml
Seniors say they can more safely cross Silver Spring street
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
Some of the 14 improvements made to Second Avenue include relocated bus stops, wider crosswalks and sidewalks and an audible crossing signal for blind pedestrians at Second and Fenwick that announces when it is OK to cross.
The improvements are paid for in part by Leggett's Pedestrian Safety Initiative that launched last year. Leggett allocated a $4 million increase for pedestrian safety in this year's proposed budget.
"There are too many deaths, too many people are dying," Leggett said of the increased focus on pedestrian safety. The county averaged 14 pedestrian deaths per year between 2003 and 2006, and 17 in 2007.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew115205_32487.shtml
Residents raise concerns about WSSC repairs - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Community says construction makes Takoma Park street hazardous
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer
Residents took turns blasting WSSC officials Thursday night in Takoma Park, calling the utility arrogant and citing its failure to control its independent contractors, leading to badly repaved streets that make driving in the city a hazardous experience.
The forum, held at the request of Del. Heather Mizeur (D-Dist. 20) of Takoma Park, was intended to give residents the chance to voice concerns regarding the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission's level of service in its ongoing effort to repair and replace the city's outdated water pipes.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184743_32471.shtml
Community says construction makes Takoma Park street hazardous
by Jeremy Arias | Staff Writer
Residents took turns blasting WSSC officials Thursday night in Takoma Park, calling the utility arrogant and citing its failure to control its independent contractors, leading to badly repaved streets that make driving in the city a hazardous experience.
The forum, held at the request of Del. Heather Mizeur (D-Dist. 20) of Takoma Park, was intended to give residents the chance to voice concerns regarding the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission's level of service in its ongoing effort to repair and replace the city's outdated water pipes.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184743_32471.shtml
Gangs, budget hot topics at candidate forum - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
District 4 hopefuls address residents' questions, concerns
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer
Combating a perceived rising gang problem and balancing an education-heavy budget were two of the hottest topics at one of the first forums for candidates vying for the District 4 County Council seat.
About 35 residents attended the forum, which took place Tuesday night at Paint Branch High School in Burtonsville, writing questions on note cards for the nine out of 10 candidates who were present.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184746_32473.shtml
District 4 hopefuls address residents' questions, concerns
by Amber Parcher | Staff Writer
Combating a perceived rising gang problem and balancing an education-heavy budget were two of the hottest topics at one of the first forums for candidates vying for the District 4 County Council seat.
About 35 residents attended the forum, which took place Tuesday night at Paint Branch High School in Burtonsville, writing questions on note cards for the nine out of 10 candidates who were present.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184746_32473.shtml
Residents do their part to battle crime with neighborhood watch programs - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
It's 10 p.m. on a Thursday, and Silver Spring resident Dave Evans is where he usually is at this time: driving around his neighborhood in his enormous black Hummer H3.
In the back seat is a black bag with night-vision goggles, pepper spray and a stun gun. A police scanner is in the front seat, with a remote control to operate two spotlights: one mounted on the car, and another that watches over the basketball courts in the middle of the neighborhood.
Evans puts in about 30 hours a month on neighborhood patrol and rarely needs to use all his gear. Regardless, Evans knows his 820-residence Tanglewood community is safer because of one of the most intense Neighborhood Watch programs in Montgomery County.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184750_32474.shtml
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
It's 10 p.m. on a Thursday, and Silver Spring resident Dave Evans is where he usually is at this time: driving around his neighborhood in his enormous black Hummer H3.
In the back seat is a black bag with night-vision goggles, pepper spray and a stun gun. A police scanner is in the front seat, with a remote control to operate two spotlights: one mounted on the car, and another that watches over the basketball courts in the middle of the neighborhood.
Evans puts in about 30 hours a month on neighborhood patrol and rarely needs to use all his gear. Regardless, Evans knows his 820-residence Tanglewood community is safer because of one of the most intense Neighborhood Watch programs in Montgomery County.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184750_32474.shtml
Revenue Authority will keep golf course lease until Oct. 1 - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
County to determine best use of the facility after that date
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The Montgomery County Council passed a lease amendment Tuesday to require the county Revenue Authority to operate Sligo Creek Golf Course until Oct. 1 before terminating its lease because the course was ruled a drain on the county golf system's finances.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184751_32476.shtml
County to determine best use of the facility after that date
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The Montgomery County Council passed a lease amendment Tuesday to require the county Revenue Authority to operate Sligo Creek Golf Course until Oct. 1 before terminating its lease because the course was ruled a drain on the county golf system's finances.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184751_32476.shtml
Two-thirds of Falkland Chase to be designated as historic - Gazette
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Developer can build high-rise on one portion of the property
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The owner of the Falkland Chase apartments in Silver Spring can proceed with redevelopment plans after the Montgomery County Council unanimously voted Tuesday to only designate two-thirds of the property as historic.
Vienna, Va.-based developer Home Properties will demolish 182 rental units on the north parcel of Falkland Chase and build about 1,000 high-rise apartments at the corner of 16th Street and East West Highway. The south and west parcels, which contain about 270 garden-style apartments, will be added to the Master Plan for Historic Preservation, which requires owners of listed properties to obtain additional work permits for new construction.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184751_32477.shtml
Developer can build high-rise on one portion of the property
by Jason Tomassini | Staff Writer
The owner of the Falkland Chase apartments in Silver Spring can proceed with redevelopment plans after the Montgomery County Council unanimously voted Tuesday to only designate two-thirds of the property as historic.
Vienna, Va.-based developer Home Properties will demolish 182 rental units on the north parcel of Falkland Chase and build about 1,000 high-rise apartments at the corner of 16th Street and East West Highway. The south and west parcels, which contain about 270 garden-style apartments, will be added to the Master Plan for Historic Preservation, which requires owners of listed properties to obtain additional work permits for new construction.
http://www.gazette.net/stories/04012009/silvnew184751_32477.shtml
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
