 Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich says the County is finally ready to emerge from most restrictions that provided protection during the COVID-19 health crisis. On May 28, most restrictions will be lifted. However, some challenges remain. He wants local restaurants to know more financial relief is available for them and he is working to extend the current eviction moratoriums so renters and homeowners have more time to receive funds that are available to help them.
 Montgomery County earlier this week moved to its next phase of reopening as more residents receive COVID-19 vaccines. On Friday, May 28, most restrictions that have been in place for safety reasons will be lifted. The County Council, acting as the Board of Health and in consultation with County health officials and County Executive Marc Elrich, approved moving to the new reopening phases.
 Montgomery County’s COVID-19 Information Portal provides a variety of breakdowns on how the virus has impacted the County. The statistics are updated to reflect the most recent reports during the health crisis. Among the information available is how many positive cases have been reported in each zip code in the County and how many vaccinations have been given by zip code.
 Fifteen pit stops sponsored by Montgomery County’s Department of Transportation (MCDOT) will be part of the annual region-wide celebration of “Bike to Work Day” on Friday, May 21. Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association will host the free event that offers the first 15,000 bikers to register and participate a free 20th anniversary commemorative tee shirt.
The easing of COVID-19 safety restrictions has many people anxious to find ways to again explore Montgomery County. One family adventure will take place on Sunday, May 23, when One Acre Farm in Dickerson opens for its Spring Farm Tour.
 Montgomery County restaurants impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis may be eligible for financial relief grants through an additional $3.8 million in funding that is now available. In this third round of restaurant relief, the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) will award grants of up to $10,000 to eligible restaurants and food establishments.
 The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) is reminding residents that Federal guidelines continue to require face coverings when traveling by public transportation. Local examples include County Ride On buses, Ride On extra, Flash, Metrobus, Metrorail and when taking taxis or on-demand car services. All MCDOT buses have a supply of face coverings for those who do not have their own. At this time, the Federal requirement is scheduled to remain in effect through Sept. 13.
 Registration is now open for Montgomery County Recreation (MCR) and Montgomery Parks summer programs and classes. Programs and activities are tailored to a variety of interests, skill levels and ages. MCR summer offerings include aquatics, adult 55+ programming, fitness, sports, visual and performing arts.
 “Clean Water Montgomery” will be the theme at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 26, when the virtual “Eco Evenings with DEP and OMG” series of virtual town halls focused on environmental topics continues with its May event. Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich will make opening remarks at the town hall, which is co-sponsored by the County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and One Montgomery Green (OMG).
 Montgomery County middle and high school students can encourage others to get COVID-19 vaccinations by producing video public service announcements (PSAs) in a County “Take the Shot” contest. The contest is another method the County is using to encourage students to talk with their friends about the importance of getting the COVID-19 vaccine
“Mental health hikes” aimed at raising awareness and ending the stigma associated with mental health disorders are being held daily throughout May at locations around Montgomery County. Montgomery Parks is collaborating with EveryMind,a nonprofit mental health organization in the County, to organize the hikes
 Free virtual seminars on Tuesday nights to help individuals strengthen their personal brand and place them on the path to finding more than just a job are continuing. The sessions, sponsored by the Montgomery County Commission for Women, offer help to discover new careers. They are geared to assist women, but are open to everyone.
 Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council issued a proclamation recognizing the month of May as “Building Safety Month.” The theme for this year’s national public awareness campaign is “Prevent, Prepare, Protect. Building Codes Save Lives.”
 The second session of the virtual speaker series, “CommUNITY Conversations in Fairland” will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 25, with the focus on the “Importance of People-First Transportation Planning.” The sessions, sponsored by the Montgomery County Planning Department, will address the Fairland and Briggs Chaney Master Plan’s challenges of connectedness and pedestrian safety.
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