The Sayles Sentinel: Community-Building During Recess
August 2024
In August, the County Council takes a much-needed recess after months of intense legislative activity. Although the Council is not in session, my team and I continue to work hard. During this time, we reflect on our accomplishments, analyze the feedback from our Community Conversations, and strengthen our connections with our constituents to continue moving our SMART agenda forward together.
Pictures from across the county at my Community Conversation events.
Throughout May and June, I collaborated with the Regional Service Offices of Montgomery County to orchestrate a series of Community Conversations in East County, Upcounty, Mid-County, Silver Spring, and Bethesda-Chevy Chase during July. These events, designed to foster dialogue between state and local government, public safety officials, school administrators, business owners, community leaders, and residents, were instrumental in addressing critical issues such as public safety, economic development, and public health, with a particular focus on the needs of our youth.
Here are some key takeaways from the discussions:
Business and Community Partnerships: Invest more in vocational learning for students and create stronger partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. Focus on improving communication about career and leadership development opportunities and ensuring underserved communities are not overlooked.
Community Safety: Instead of building new prisons, focus on preventing youth crime and truancy through early intervention, supporting mental health, offering diversion programs, involving the community more, and strengthening police-community relationships.
Youth Engagement: Essential resources and after-school programs must be more affordable, accessible, and reflective of our diverse communities so that more youth can take advantage of spaces offering mental health support, creative outlets, mentorship, and community involvement.
Thank you to our five Regional Services Directors for their partnership in this effort and for hosting these timely and vital conversations. Thank you to my district councilmember colleagues, local police district captains, and all the other presenters who shared their insights about our ongoing efforts to create safer and more vibrant communities. I also want to thank my staff and Summer RISE interns for their hard work coordinating and supporting the logistics of these events. It was indeed a team effort.
I also want to thank the following organizations who shared helpful resources with participants at the Community Conversations:
I am most grateful to all the residents who participated in these critical discussions. Your feedback has been instrumental in shaping our future policies and initiatives. Your active participation in these conversations has empowered you to address our communities' challenges, and I encourage you to continue engaging with us as we work towards solutions.
You can watch a complete recording of our Upcounty Community Conversation Event here.
Hosting these community conversations across the county was a significant undertaking to facilitate constructive dialogue and inform my future policymaking. To learn how you can help keep the conversation going as we transition toward solutions, please sign up to join my Safe and Vibrant Communities Task Force here. Your voice matters, and your participation is crucial in shaping our community's future.
Dr. Docca's passing has left a void in our community, and we will cherish the many memories we shared with her.
Dr. Docca left an incredible legacy as a longtime Board of Education member and trailblazer in our community. Dr. Docca was more than just a leader; she was a mentor, a friend, and an unwavering advocate for education and equity. Her laughter, love, and wisdom touched the lives of so many, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams and make a difference. Dr. Docca's dedication to uplifting others will forever resonate within our hearts and minds. As we reflect on her remarkable contributions, let us carry forward her spirit of compassion and commitment to education. She will be deeply missed, and her legacy will live on in the lives she transformed and the community she built. Thank you, Dr. Docca, for your indelible impact on our lives. Your light will continue to guide us for generations to come.
Left: Sonya Masey | Right: A poster from the vigil for Bishop Jones-Daniel.
The ongoing police-involved shootings resulting in tragic loss of lives, such as Bishop Jones-Daniel and Sonya Massey, are unacceptable. Despite substantial funding for police training, mobile crisis units, and de-escalation tactics, these incidents persist. Our officers must prioritize the lives of community members by offering the same care and compassion they would expect for their family members during distressing situations.
The video released by the Maryland Office of the Attorney General on July 31 demonstrated law enforcement's response to Bishop Jones during a mental health crisis, underscoring the absence of intervention by mental health professionals. Similar issues were present in the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey. These incidents do not align with modern policing standards and demand accountability for the excessive use of force. I remain steadfast in my commitment to fostering safer and more equitable communities for all.
National Night Out
Photos of Team Sayles at National Night Out events.
Team Sayles attended National Night Out events on August 6 all across the county to promote public safety and strengthen police-community relations. Thank you to our county and municipal police departments, fire and rescue squadrons, county agencies, and local partners for organizing these fun and family-friendly events. Opportunities for police to engage directly with their communities are critical to developing mutual trust, respect, and compassion.
MCPD Session 77 Graduation
We salute the hard work, dedication, and determination of the MCPD Session 77 Class demonstrated in reaching this milestone.
Team Sayles proudly attended the graduation ceremony for the 77th class of the Montgomery County Police. I wholeheartedly congratulate our graduates who completed this rigorous training program. I am genuinely inspired by their unwavering commitment to ensuring community safety, fostering engagement, and providing unbiased service, collectively contributing to making Montgomery County a better place for all our residents and visitors. I sincerely thank our recent graduates for choosing to protect and serve and for their ongoing efforts to make Montgomery County a safer place for everyone. We eagerly anticipate the significant impact they will make in our community!
Wheaton Arts Parade Mural Dedication
Left: Ms. Bridget Cimino, the artist, standing beside the plaque dedicating the mural. | Right: A photo of the large and impressive mural.
My team celebrated the dedication of Wheaton's newest mural, 'Wheaton Lives'! Congratulations to Ms. Bridget Cimino for creating this masterpiece. Thanks to Elbe’s Beer and Wine for offering the wall, the Maryland State Arts Council, the Wheaton Arts Walls Foundation, and generous community members for their support. Local artists interested in future projects can visit www.mssac.org/opportunities/opportunities-artists.
Bill 7-24, Tenant Protection and Notification, Bill Signing
Photo from the bill signing ceremony with County Executive Elrich, Councilmember Kate Stewart, Co-Sponsor Will Jawando, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service Chief Corey Smedly, the parents of Melanie Diaz, and other key stakeholders.
I want to thank Council Vice President Kate Stewart and all my fellow co-sponsors for signing into law Bill 7-24, Tenant Protection and Notification. This bill, resulting from community advocacy and cooperation following a tragic fire and power outage, will significantly improve the county's conditions for hundreds of thousands of renters, ensuring their safety and security. I am grateful for the support from the County Executive and Fire and Rescue Service for this law, which will save lives and help avert future tragedies once implemented.
Montgomery County 75th Annual Agricultural Leaders’ Luncheon
Agricultural Hall of Fame Award recognizing Robert Butts of Waredaca.
My team attended a wonderful luncheon at the 75th Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair! Thank you to the Agricultural Center, Office of Agriculture, and the University of Maryland for hosting this critical discussion on supporting our local farmers. Congratulations to this year’s honorees as I continue working with our agricultural partners.
Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Conference
Photos include Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins, also chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, speaking during Innovating Intervention: Leveraging Technology. Mo Hasan, Founder and CEO of Intupower, presenting during Governing in the Age of AI.
My team participated in the Maryland Association of Counties conference, gaining valuable insights to inform my policymaking. We identified the urgent need to expand our mobile crisis response teams and promote equity in the clean energy transition. Senator Cardin's town hall provided a crucial federal update, and the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development highlighted energy efficiency initiatives for limited-income homes. I am determined to utilize these advancements to support Governor Moore’s commitment to “leave no one behind” as we partner to build a better Maryland for all our residents.
Montgomery Village Sports Association Family Resource Fair
Sierra Gray and Launai Wells, members of my team, staffing our table at MVSA.
Team Sayles participated in the Pink and White Family Fun Fair to demonstrate support for the Montgomery Village Football Association and the athletes in our community. We thank the Department of Health and Human Services and all our community partners for highlighting the myriad resources available to our families.
Welcome Back to School!
 As we embark on a new school year, I want to extend my warmest welcome to students, teachers, parents, to our Board of Education members, as well as to our new Superintendent, Dr. Taylor. I remain committed to investing in education, and ensuring every child has the opportunity to succeed. Here's to a year of new beginnings and shared achievements!
Final Call for Students in Grades 7-12 - to apply to my S.M.A.R.T Youth Advisory Council!
 Limited space remains for the next cohort of my S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council! The Youth Advisory Council provides a platform for youth to advocate for solutions to community issues. Members will shape local legislation and initiatives. We seek passionate students who are committed to giving back to their community. Accepted students will be eligible for SSL hours. Apply to join the fourth cohort here. For questions, please email us at councilmember.sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov.
September 1: Ethiopian Day Festival
The Ethiopian Community Center in Maryland (ECCM) will host its annual Ethiopian Day. This cultural celebration brings together the Ethiopian community and friends to commemorate and showcase Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage, history, and traditions. Held on September 1, 2024, this vibrant festival will occur at the Silver Spring Civic Center on Sunday, September 1st, from 7 AM to 10 PM.
September 2: Gaithersburg Labor Day Parade
With Labor Day approaching, I want to take a moment to celebrate and honor the hardworking workers and labor unions of Montgomery County. Their tireless efforts continue to shape our county and elevate our workforce. Take time to thank a worker and labor union this weekend!
The City of Gaithersburg and the Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Fire Department will host the 86th Annual Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 2, 2024, from 10 to 12 PM at Olde Town Plaza, located at 1 South Summit Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. The event will feature a variety of entertainment, including high school marching bands, dance groups, antique cars, and more, with Larry Miller of WUSA 9-TV serving as the emcee.
September 4: It’s Olney Time!
All are welcome to Lone Oak Farm Brewery (5000 Olney Laytonsville Rd) on Wednesday, September 4, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. to learn about the groups that make things happen in Olney. Enjoy complimentary drinks (beer or non-alcoholic) provided by Olney Civic Fund, GOCA, and the Olney Chamber of Commerce and free snacks provided by participating groups.
September 6 - October 6: Monuments - Forces of Nature
Built for the outdoors, Craig Walsh’s MONUMENTS celebrates selected individuals through large-scale, nighttime projected portraits onto live trees in public spaces for stunning effect. MONUMENTS challenges traditional expectations of public monuments and the selective history represented in our public spaces. The installations present a haunting synergy between the human form, nature, and the act of viewing. Enormous night-time projections transform trees into sculptural monuments. Strathmore’s MONUMENTS: Forces of Nature highlights the achievements and social impact of 6 individuals who work in climate, environmental stewardship, or resource justice in the DMV. Tickets are available on a Pay What You Can basis.
September 6: Maryland Women’s Business Center Shop Local 5th Anniversary Celebration
Join the Maryland Women’s Business Center (MWBC) and Rockville Economic Development Inc. at 36D Maryland Ave, Rockville, MD, on Friday, September 6, from 4 - 5 PM to celebrate the 5th Anniversary celebration for MWBC Shop Local. Since 2019, MWBC Shop Local has showcased emerging retailers and small-scale manufacturers, supported nearly 40 women entrepreneurs, generated over $480,000 in sales, and helped over 80% open online or physical locations. The program has driven economic growth and recently expanded into Howard County.
September 7: Freedom to Express: The Heart of Community
On Saturday, September 7, 2024, at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The National Center for Children and Families (NCCF) will celebrate four exemplary honorees who champion the universal importance of artistic expression in the health and healing of the most vulnerable among us. Co-Hosted by Doug Kammerer (Chief Meteorologist, NBC4) and Brianna Stoute (Merrily We Roll Along – Broadway) and emceed by Washington Media’s power couple Allison Seymour (Get Up DC – WUSA9) and Marc Clarke (Fox 45 – Baltimore), NCCF’s Freedom to Express: The Heart of Community will celebrate the healing power of the arts.
September 7: 17th Annual Bluegrass on the Farm Festival in Derwood
The 17th Annual “Bluegrass on the Farm” festival will take place at the Montgomery Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7. Headline performances include King Street Bluegrass, the Shannon Bielski Duo, and The Poor Ellen Smith Band. The park at 18400 Muncaster Road offers a scenic 455-acre setting with lawn seating under shade trees. Attendees should bring their chairs or blankets; food and drinks are available for purchase, and outside food is allowed. Tickets are $20 at the gate or $18.98 online at https://www.simpletix.com/e/bluegrass-on-the-farm-tickets-177565. Parking is free, leashed pets are welcome, and the event occurs rain or shine.
September 8: A Day at the Park: JSSA Family Wellness Day
JSSA’s Family Wellness Day is right around the corner. Please mark your calendar for Sept. 8 at 1 p.m. at Bohrer Park–Park and Pond Pavilions, 506 S. Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, for a fun-filled afternoon where you and your family and friends can engage in more than 40 interactive activities to boost your mental and physical well-being—featuring a petting zoo, an inflatable obstacle course, face painters, sports, games, performances and more. We hope to see you rain or shine for a beautiful afternoon in Bohrer Park.
September 9: Montgomery County Community Conversations FY26 Budget Forums
Join County Executive Marc Elrich for the first in a series of community discussions about how Montgomery County funds public services. Monday, September 9, from 7 - 8:30 PM at the White Oak Community Recreation Center (Social Hall), 1700 April Lane. Silver Spring, MD 20904. Or online. If you can’t attend one of the Community Conversations but would like to participate, submit your question to County Executive Marc Elrich. Learn more about this and future Budget Forum events at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/OPI/budget-forums.html
September 21: Poolesville Day
This one-day FREE event in Montgomery County is a Poolesville tradition celebrating more than 25 years of community, fun, and entertainment! Poolesville Day is produced by the Poolesville Day Committee, Inc. (PDC), comprised of local volunteer residents. It is held each year in mid-September in Poolesville. Town Parade 10:00 - 11:00 am. 5K Charity Run 8:00 am. Children’s activities: Mechanical Rides, Moon bounce, train and pony rides, and more. Arts and craft vendors, other exhibitors, and food and beverages from award-winning vendors. Children's entertainment. Falcon Lane: fun for 8 & older
September 23: Car Free Day
Car Free Day is a worldwide event that encourages greener methods of travel, meaning ways to get around other than driving alone by car. Commuter Connections hosts Car Free Day in the Washington, DC region to bring awareness to the benefits of travel options such as transit, bicycling, and walking; it also offers telework for people who can work from home. Take the pledge and enter a raffle sponsored by MCDOT at tinyurl.com/yymu86jq
September 25: Crossroads Farmers Market Celebration
Crossroads Farmers Market is celebrating a significant milestone: $1 million in SNAP-matching Fresh Checks incentives distributed to over 26,000 families in the Takoma/Langley Crossroads since 2007, totaling $2 million invested in the community and local farmers. To mark this achievement, state and county officials, USDA representatives, and community members will gather at the market in Takoma Park on Wednesday, September 25, at noon. The event will feature live music, children’s activities, and a raffle. Crossroads was the first market in Maryland to accept SNAP, WIC, and other federal benefits and to implement a "double dollar" program to promote food equity.
- Montgomery County Holiday Closures Schedule for Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 2
- Ride On Bus Service Changes Begin on Sunday, Sept. 8
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The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy is accepting grant applications for its SFY25 Project Safe Neighborhoods Maryland Grant Program (PSNM). Applications are due on Friday, September 6th, 2024, by 11:59 PM.
- Montgomery County Offers a Free, Nationally Recognized Six-Week Virtual Diabetes Management Program Starting Thursday, Sept. 12
- Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection Launches New Podcast: ‘Consumer Connection’
- Community Input for Future New Mural on Glenmont Local Park Activity Building
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Adult Bike and E-Scooter Classes are in September, October, and November.
- Recreation Youth Flag Football Program Expanded - Registration ends September 15
- Montgomery College Students and Alumni Can Submit Designs for ‘Promote the Vote’ Banner Contest to Inspire First-Time Voters
- Sports Hall of Fame Seeks Nominations for Next Class of Inductees
- Unused Bikes Will Go to Good Use If Donated to the Department of Transportation’s Annual Bike Donation Event on Friday, Oct. 11
- Rockville Town Square Summer Concert Series Features Free Events Most Fridays, with Classic Rock of ‘Midnight Elixir’ Headlining on Sept. 6
- Montgomery County Announces New $750,000 Grant Opportunity to Enhance Water Quality
- Montgomery County Will Offer ‘Ready Montgomery Seminar’ on Advanced Emergency Preparedness for Residents on Saturday, Sept. 7
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