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Nov. 16, 2023
The holiday season is officially upon us. It’s a time of gratitude and reflection on all we have to be grateful for this year. I’m eternally thankful to my family -- my husband, Jason and our two puppies -- and grateful that we are able to share our life in a diverse, inclusive community that welcomes people of all backgrounds. I’m honored to serve our community, working every day for the amazing people of Montgomery County, and I’m grateful that we have such active and engaged residents who care so deeply about this community.
Get in the holiday spirit at the Thanksgiving Parade in Silver Spring this Saturday, Nov. 18 beginning at 10 a.m.
Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy Thanksgiving!
I recently returned from an economic development mission to India and Vietnam. Spending time in cities across these two countries has been extremely informative and promising. The County Executive, Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, business leaders and members of these countries' diaspora joined us to meet with entrepreneurs and political leaders about economic cooperation and partnerships.
We also had one-on-one discussions with entrepreneurs who traveled distances specifically to meet with us and speak about opening an office in Montgomery County.
Thank you to our hosts in India and Vietnam for your graciousness and hospitality. I am confident about the progress we will make together!
As one of our most important natural resources, trees play a vital role in enhancing quality of life and contributing to the well-being of residents. A thriving tree canopy reduces air pollution and water runoff, reduces heat islands, and positively impacts our physical and mental health.
I recently introduced legislation with Vice President Andrew Friedson that would update our laws to further encourage the conservation of trees in Montgomery County.
Bill 40-23 adjusts the fee structure for trees removed in the county’s right of way to ensure they are consistent with the costs, including the environmental cost of removing the tree and the cost of tree replacements. If passed, this bill would help us mitigate climate effects and reach our county’s climate goals. Learn more.
Skip the big box stores and support small, local businesses for all your holiday shopping needs this season. Small Business Saturday is celebrated annually on the Saturday (Nov. 25) after Thanksgiving.
According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at an independent small business, almost $53 stays in the community, compared to $14 when spent at a big box store.
From boutiques to independent bookshops and cafes, explore all the unique offerings our small businesses have to offer across Montgomery County.
White Cane Awareness Day recognizes the achievements of people who are blind or visually impaired and raises awareness of the importance of the white cane as a tool for visually impaired pedestrians to travel independently. I was recently joined by community leaders at the Council for a proclamation recognizing White Cane Awareness Day in Montgomery County.
There’s no better time to give back to your community than during the holidays. Whether you’re volunteering your time or making a donation to a local area nonprofit, there are easy and meaningful ways to help those in need and give back this season. Find what opportunity suits you best through the Montgomery County Volunteer Center’s Guide to Giving Help for the Holidays.
A resident recently reached out to my office about a public walkway in need of repair in their neighborhood. My team raised this matter with the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT). After inspection, MCDOT Highway Services crews completed the repair along Glenallen Avenue in Silver Spring, adding a caution sign and railing for safety.
Celebrate the holidays safely this season by making sure you and your family are up to date on the latest COVID-19 booster vaccinations. The updated COVID-19 vaccines are available at your local doctors' offices and pharmacies. To find COVID-19 vaccine near you, search vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to 438829, or call 1‑800‑232‑0233.
You are eligible to receive a booster vaccine if it has been at least two months since your last COVID-19 vaccination. Plus, it’s not too late to get your flu shot! It is safe to get both the COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot at the same time. If you are uninsured, select the "Bridge Access Program Participant" option when searching vaccines.gov, which will display no-cost clinics. For more information, call the County’s Immunization Program at 240-777-1050.
Please do not reply to this email. To contact my office, email me at Councilmember.Glass@montgomerycountymd.gov.
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