Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

The Sayles Sentinel: Join Forces for a Brighter Future!

October 2024

The election season is here. If you’re an eligible resident, register and vote in person if you haven’t yet! If you have a mail-in ballot, return it by mail or drop it off at the Montgomery County Board of Elections office, a polling place, or a drop box by November 5th. Check your registration status by clicking here or text CHECK to 77788 to verify your voter information. If you're not registered, text VOTE to 77788 or click here for the registration form. View a sample ballot for Montgomery County by clicking here. Submit your voter registration form to the Montgomery County Board of Elections or at your polling location by November 5th. Make your voice count!

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

Vote by November 5th – your voice matters!

Happy Halloween!

Have a fa-boo-lous Halloween!

While we’re celebrating and trick-or-treating in our neighborhoods, it's critically important to keep our young ones safe! If you’re stepping out to trick-or-treat, be sure to remind your children to look both ways before crossing the street, wear clothing that is easy to see (flashing, glowing, or reflective items or costume elements can help!), and carry flashlights. Make sure to plan a well-lit route with your family!

And everyone – please remember to be extra mindful as motorists, especially with so many children and youth out to celebrate as it gets darker with lower visibility. From Team Sayles, we wish you a spooktacular Halloween!

Educated Voters are Empowered Voters

Discussing a range of critical issues with voters of all ages and backgrounds

Election Day is Tuesday, November 5th! Voters in Montgomery County will make meaningful choices, including the U.S. Senate and House races, county judges, the Board of Education, and two ballot questions. I strongly support the Right to Reproductive Freedom Amendment and urge everyone to vote YES on Question 1 to protect this essential right for all Marylanders.

In preparation for Election Day, I’ve been meeting with diverse constituents, including the Maryland Male Students of Color Summit attendees and the Black Voices and Votes event. Staying civically engaged is crucial, and I look forward to ongoing discussions on these critical issues. For more information, visit our county’s or state’s board of elections websites.

Recognizing National Commemorations: Breast Cancer Awareness Month and more

(Clockwise from top right) Joining my colleagues for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, National Farmer’s Day, Hispanic Heritage Month, World Mental Health Day, and Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month Proclamations

I was honored to join my colleagues in raising awareness across our county for October, including Breast Cancer Awareness Month, World Mental Health Day, Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month, National Farmers Day, and Hispanic Heritage Month.

Research shows that Black women in the United States are more likely to experience aggressive forms of breast cancer that are harder to treat. Furthermore, they face a 40% higher risk of dying from breast cancer compared to white women, primarily due to inequalities in healthcare access. Alongside my colleagues, breast cancer survivors, and individuals currently living with breast cancer, we recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month and committed to the essential work ahead. As a member of the Health and Human Services Committee and the Council's Lead for Eliminating Disparities in Public Health, I am dedicated to promoting equitable access to quality healthcare and resources for all residents, regardless of their income levels.

This month, I also had the honor of hosting a luncheon and proclamation at the Council in recognition of National Farmer’s Day, where we welcomed farmers throughout our county. This occasion acknowledges our farmers' vital contributions to the economic stability and food systems within our community. The agricultural industry is essential for fostering economic growth and ensuring food accessibility for all. My colleagues and I sincerely appreciate the dedication displayed by our farmers, and we remain committed to supporting and advocating for the resources they need to thrive.

I joined my colleagues in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” provided an opportunity to honor the innovative contributions and profound resilience of Hispanic changemakers in our county. Despite the hostile rhetoric often directed at our Latino brothers and sisters, I had the privilege of attending numerous community events and award ceremonies that showcased Hispanic entrepreneurs, cultural traditions—including dance and music—as well as delicious foods. I truly appreciate the incredible impact of our nation’s richly diverse Latino community!

Introducing a Bill to Extend the MFD-Owned Business Purchasing Program

This month, I introduced Expedited Bill 23-24, the Minority-Owned Business Purchasing Program—Extension of Sunset Date, alongside Councilmember Jawando. This bill extends the sunset date for the MFD Program by five years to December 1, 2029, and mandates a new disparity study be presented by July 2029.

The September 2024 disparity study revealed significant inequalities affecting nearly all target groups from 2015 to 2021. Recognizing the importance of this initiative, we introduced legislation in 2023 to enhance support for minority, female, and disabled business owners. We remain committed to securing sufficient funding and a comprehensive evaluation of the program to ensure meaningful progress in addressing these disparities.

The Council will hold a public hearing on this bill on November 12 at 1:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to share their views. Sign-up for speaking slots ends on November 11 at 2 p.m.

Meeting with Senator Van Hollen

Discussing pressing policy issues impacting our constituents with Senator Van Hollen

US Senator Van Hollen recently visited the County Council to discuss key policy priorities for Montgomery County. He emphasized his commitment to supporting our initiatives through effective legislation and various funding avenues, including earmarks and grants. Our discussion covered several critical areas, such as the need for continued WMATA funding, the timeline and progress of the Purple Line construction, and the strategic allocation of disaster relief funding. My colleagues and I also highlighted concerns from our constituents regarding infrastructure investments, affordable housing, and the importance of local legislation that relies on federal support. I want to express my gratitude to Senator Van Hollen for his visit and for listening to our perspectives. This collaborative engagement is vital as we advocate for our community's competing priorities and work towards effective solutions for all.

M-83 Highway

Following a public hearing on September 12 regarding the 2024 update to the Master Plan of Highways and Transitways (MPOHT), the county’s Planning Board has adjusted the scope of work to consider removing Midcounty Highway Extended, including the adjacent unbuilt bikeway, from the master plan. More information is available on the Montgomery Planning website. The Planning Board has scheduled a second public hearing for November 14 at 6:30 PM to gather community input on potentially removing or retaining the unbuilt sections of Midcounty Highway Extended from the MPOHT. Community members may sign up to testify live at the hearing in person or online via Microsoft Teams. Additionally, residents can submit written comments to the Planning Board via email by noon on Thursday, November 28. Written comments should reference the specific item's hearing date and include a mailing address.

Historic Swearing-in Ceremony For Police and Fire Chiefs

Celebrating the historic swearing-in of Fire Chief Smedley and Police Chief Yamada

I was privileged to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Marc Yamada, the Police Chief of Montgomery County, and Corey Smedley, the chief of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service. As the first Black woman elected at large in our county, I recognize the vital importance of diverse representation in leadership roles, primarily in organizations that serve our community.

This historic occasion, marking the appointments of our first Asian Police Chief and first Black Fire Chief, signifies a significant step towards inclusivity and progress. I look forward to collaborating with Chief Yamada and Chief Smedley to enhance and modernize our public safety landscape, focusing on effective community engagement and fostering trust between our departments and residents.

S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around The County

Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond

EmpowHER Leadership Institute

I was deeply honored to serve as the keynote speaker at the inaugural meeting of the MoCo EmpowHER Leadership Institute, a program created by the MCPS-affiliated organization. Looking toward the future, I am hopeful as I witness the brilliant young minds engaging in profound conversations about gender, diversity, implicit bias, and their unique challenges. Their passion inspires my belief in their journey as future leaders who will advocate for the needs of our evolving communities. A heartfelt thank you to Michelle Dean, MoCo EmpowHER's advisor, and the dedicated student organizers who brought this remarkable leadership development program to life.

Black and Brown Coalition Town Hall w/ MCPS

Community members passionately discuss improving outcomes for diverse MCPS students.

Team Sayles attended a town hall organized by the Black and Brown Coalition for Educational Equity and Excellence in coordination with MCPS. Featuring special guest MCPS Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor, the town hall provided a forum for parents, students, teachers, staff, and other central stakeholders to discuss critical issues affecting our community and schools. The most prominent issues that residents brought up included improving reading and math outcomes, enhancing school safety and security, implementing an equity plan that centers on antiracism, and strengthening wraparound services and community engagement and assistance. 

Education is central to my S.M.A.R.T. agenda. Though MCPS has begun to use an equity lens in addressing academic and opportunity gaps, there is much work to do to close the persisting achievement gaps for Black and Brown children. I have advocated for additional funding for programs such as Linkages to Learning, technology modernization, and school-based health and wellness centers. I have also pushed for evaluating the effectiveness of programs that aim to address and close this achievement gap. I am deeply grateful for the residents of all ages who showed up and shared their perspectives. I echo your concerns – your needs and priorities guide my vision for the future of education in Montgomery County.

Out of Darkness Exhibit by County Commission on Remembrance and Reconciliation

To recognize the 160th anniversary of Maryland’s Emancipation Day, the Montgomery County Commission on Remembrance and Reconciliation has organized special educational and outreach events and activities. These events will occur throughout November in collaboration with several community and county organizations. To start off the month of learning and reflection, the Commission launched the Out of Darkness Exhibit, which was presented in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Council. Check out this flier for the Remembrance and Reconciliation Month events and activities calendar.

Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable

Attainable Housing Listening Sessions

Throughout September, Council President Friedson and Montgomery Planning Director Jason Sartori hosted a series of listening sessions across Montgomery County to discuss the Attainable Housing Strategies Initiative. Listening sessions were held in Silver Spring, Wheaton, White Oak, Germantown, Bethesda, and virtually for anyone unable to attend in person. I appreciate every resident who attended and provided invaluable feedback. We need to address rising housing costs to assist residents struggling to obtain stable housing and the opportunity to start building wealth through homeownership. However, while increasing affordability and accessibility are a priority, we must evaluate the feasibility of every proposal. Once I've gathered all the necessary input to understand the public’s perception and feedback regarding these recommendations, I will use that feedback to guide my approach.

Location, Location, Location! Strathmore Square Grand Opening

Hearing from the forward-thinking developers about Strathmore Square’s amenities and offerings

I had the opportunity to attend the unveiling of Strathmore Square's neighborhood development alongside colleagues and stakeholders who contributed to the successful grand opening. A unique transit-centered, arts-focused neighborhood, the residential development is an excellent example of offering a blend of culture and convenience to all residents who call it home.

Affordable Housing Discussions and Tours

Discussing home ownership and housing affordability with residents at workshops and tours

Affordable housing is a deeply personal issue for me as a single mom who received support through Montgomery County’s MPDU program, which enabled me to purchase my first home. This month, I had the privilege of touring with Housing Unlimited, an organization serving residents through recovery and independence for 30 years in Montgomery County. I also joined the Community Development Network of Maryland and Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland for an event advancing Black home ownership. This event underscored historic systemic disparities in homeownership between Black and White Marylanders. It highlighted national examples of partnerships between communities, organizations, and governments that promote the development and preservation of homeownership as a tool for restorative justice.

Damascus Placemaking Festival

Montgomery Planning hosted a placemaking festival in late October to reimagine Main Street in Damascus. I joined planners, consultants, and community volunteers, who worked to transform the street into a vibrant public space with temporary streetscape improvements such as street trees, landscaping, outdoor seating, and art installations. The festival featured dozens of local businesses, community groups, food and craft vendors, and various activities and performances from local programming partners. Placemaking inspires people to collectively reimagine and reinvent public spaces to strengthen the connection between the community and their shared places. Stay tuned for what’s next!

Mansfield Kaseman Health Clinic 15th Anniversary Quinceañera Fundraiser

Commemorating the phenomenal contributions of MKHC at their Quinceañera

I was deeply honored to present a proclamation at the Mansfield Kaseman Health Clinic’s Quinceañera celebration and fundraiser to highlight the phenomenal work led by Community Reach of Montgomery County for the past 15 years. The Mansfield Clinic has proven integral to Montgomery County’s ability to provide healthcare services and access to all. Healthcare workers who staff the clinic have assisted some of our county’s most vulnerable residents, working tirelessly to reduce health disparities and serving as a model for comprehensive healthcare services. Special thanks to Rev. Mansfield Kaseman, Dr. Donna Perry, Sarah Basehart, Courtney Proctor, DJ Stan Jones, and all the other organizers who hosted a beautiful celebration commemorating the Mansfield Clinic’s remarkable impact on thousands of our County’s families. Cheers to 15 more years!

Emory Grove United Methodist Church 150th Anniversary

Congratulating Rev. Tim Warner of Emory Grove United Methodist Church on 150 years of inspiring service

I was deeply honored to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Emory Grove United Methodist Church alongside my colleagues, Councilmember Jawando and Councilmember Luedtke. The church, known as the Grove, has stood firm as a vital pillar of our community, thanks to the hard work of generations of Black leaders whose shoulders I stand upon. Since the late 1800s, the Grove has united our community in faith, love, and service. Built in the aftermath of the Civil War by formerly enslaved individuals, the church has grown, uplifting its congregants and inspiring numerous ministries and organizations. Congratulations to Emory Grove United Methodist Church, and here’s to another 150 years!

Advance Sustainable Local Food Production in the Ag Reserve

Close Encounters with Agriculture and Ribbon Cuttings for Composting Education Hub (CEH) and MoCo Microhub

Exploring the Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood with fourth-graders and celebrating the ribbon-cuttings of new facilities for our farm workers!

Our agricultural sector is an economic powerhouse, generating over $280 million and contributing locally-grown food and livestock, horticulture, equine-related recreation, and other essentials to our county’s growth and well-being. This month, I visited the Agricultural History Farm Park on an interactive tour with dozens of fourth graders for Close Encounters with Agriculture. I later had the opportunity to join my colleagues for ribbon-cutting ceremonies to celebrate two new agricultural projects: the Composting Education Hub (CEH), which demonstrates how to compost food scraps using a variety of methods, and the MoCo Microhub, which will explore how to make a small storage container-style unit work as shared cold storage space. I am committed to funding our Office of Agriculture’s outreach, education, and farm support capacities. I am thrilled that these educational programs and facilities continue to expand and better serve our agricultural community!

UpCounty Hub Fourth Anniversary Gala

Congratulations to the UpCounty Hub for celebrating their fourth anniversary! The UpCounty Hub is a nonprofit organization addressing county residents' urgent and evolving needs since the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hub has been serving thousands of families in Upper Montgomery County by providing culturally appropriate food and other essentials through accessible initiatives like home deliveries, drive-through public food distributions, diaper distributions, and a well-stocked choice pantry. More recently, they’ve expanded their social services offerings and have begun providing case management to connect people with crucial resources like SNAP benefits, crisis solutions, workforce development opportunities, rental and utility assistance, housing, and healthcare.

Revitalize the Economy while Recovering from the Pandemic

Community Conversations with County Executive Marc Elrich

This month, County Executive Marc Elrich has continued hosting his Community Conversations series to discuss the upcoming fiscal year’s budget priorities. Our County Executive has and will continue to host these conversations across our county to hear perspectives directly from residents. I believe that resident feedback is integral to how the County prioritizes funding for the next fiscal year, and my team has been following these conversations since they began in September. As an at-large Councilmember, I encourage every one of you to participate in these conversations and use your voice to inform decisions made by the county on your behalf. 

Community Conversations have occurred in East County, Mid-County, Bethesda-Chevy Chase, UpCounty, and Silver Spring. The final upcoming Community Conversation on FY26 budget priorities, featuring County Executive Marc Elrich, will be held for the Spanish-speaking community on November 7 in Wheaton. Spanish-language interpreters will be present on-site. This conversation will be conducted in a hybrid format, allowing participants to attend in person or online. For more information or inquiries, please contact Mark Roper.

BioHub MD Grand Opening

We are excited to unveil the cutting-edge Biohub MD Training and Education Center in Rockville.

I was thrilled to join my colleagues on the County Council, County Executive Elrich, and Lt. Governor Miller, along with the Maryland Tech Council, to celebrate the grand opening of the BioHub Maryland Training and Education Center. As a member of the Economic Development Committee, I was proud to support the multimillion-dollar investment that led to the creation of this phenomenal workforce development space. Situated in one of the nation’s top life sciences hubs within the MD355/I-270 Technology Corridor, the state-of-the-art multifunctional facility will provide biopharma manufacturing skills training and essential career resources. I’m excited to see how BioHub MD will open up career opportunities for Marylanders and build a diverse and highly skilled workforce to advance and grow the life sciences industry.

12th Annual Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame

Recognizing trailblazers and business leaders during the county’s annual Business Hall of Fame Luncheon

I attended the October 12th annual Montgomery County Business Hall of Fame event. This community event, which brought together outstanding local business leaders, organizations, and companies committed to the well-being of Montgomery County, centered this year’s inductees while helping to raise funds benefitting the scholarship programs at The Universities at Shady Grove (USG). I am proud of our county’s work partnering with organizations like the MCBHOF to help the next generation of Montgomery County business leaders!

19th Annual Pepco Golf Classic

I was fortunate to attend and present a proclamation at​​ the 19th Annual Pepco Golf Classic charity fundraiser, which has contributed more than $4.5 million to help ease the burden of energy costs for thousands of low- to moderate-income families. This year, Pepco partnered with three organizations in the Greater Washington region to disseminate the funds to families in need, including Interfaith Works in Montgomery County. A valued and trusted partner of the County Council, Interfaith Works provides emergency and supportive housing, essential needs, and employment support to over 35,000 of our County’s most vulnerable residents every year.

Honoring Pepco as a community-oriented business that meaningfully contributes back to residents

The Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund Commission

The Montgomery County Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund (CRRF) Commission seeks community members to oversee grants to community organizations and propose legislative changes to benefit low-income areas. This Commission was formed through the passage of Bill 4-24, which I sponsored alongside Councilmembers Will Jawando and Kristin Mink to ensure that the County allocates funds in a way that centers restorative justice and community ownership. Comprised of 13 voting members, including representatives from impacted communities, the Commission will decide how cannabis excise tax revenues will be invested in community-based initiatives and programming benefiting communities disproportionately affected by decades of cannabis prohibition. The County is assembling a robust and diverse coalition of members to serve on this Commission. Learn more about statewide feedback regarding the CRRF here, and be on the lookout for information to apply to join!

Tackle Climate Change Through Equitable Transportation Initiatives

Latest Report on the Purple Line Rent Stabilization Grant Disbursement

The County Council has approved $900,000 in the FY25 Operating Budget to provide grants to support small businesses negatively affected by the Purple Line Light Rail construction along Bonifant Street in Silver Spring, particularly between Georgia Avenue and Fenton Street. The Montgomery County Business Center is responsible for administering these grants to help alleviate the challenges faced by these small businesses. This memorandum provides an update on the Business Center’s efforts and the grants disbursed in the first quarter of FY25.

MACo Fall Symposium on Renewable Energy

The Maryland Association of Counties hosted a symposium titled “21st Century Energy: Discussions on Maryland’s Renewable Energy Future.” This event brought together industry experts and lawmakers to explore fundamental principles of renewable energy policy, address challenges faced by state and county policymakers, and create a pathway for more collaborative progress as Maryland tackles the climate crisis. With a focus on the intersection of clean energy and economic development, the MACo symposium aims to accelerate Maryland's transition to 100% renewable energy while maintaining ambitious conservation and preservation goals to protect the state's natural resources.

Governor Moore’s Climate Energy Site Visit

Taking a tour of one of our county’s electric vehicle charging sites with Governor Moore

Montgomery County was honored to host Governor Moore for a presentation on the county’s electric vehicle (EV) charging program and tour with residents of the multi-family building EV site in Silver Spring. Committed to supporting underserved communities like the rural parts of our county, Governor Moore has made investments in equitable energy solutions that tackle climate change, and together, we will continue collaborating to ensure that Montgomery County remains a competitive economic powerhouse in the state.

Upcoming Events

November HHS and ECON Committee Worksessions

For November, the Health and Human Services Committee will meet for committee work sessions on November 7 at 9:30 AM, at 1:30 PM as a joint work session with the Education and Culture Committee, and at 3:00 PM as a joint work session with the Economic Development and Education and Culture Committees. The Health and Human Services Committee will meet on November 21 at 9:30 AM. To find committee work session agendas and watch live, you can follow along on County Cable 6, the Council website, or the Council’s YouTube or Facebook page.

November 1: Silver Spring Job Fair

On Friday, November 1st, a job and resource fair will be held from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at United Therapeutics in partnership with the District 20 Delegation. Over 20 employers will attend, including Adventist, Comcast, John Hopkins Health Systems, Marriott, M&T Bank, MGM, NIH, Pepco, and Verizon. Local nonprofit organizations will also be on-site to introduce residents to cost-free resources. If you are a job seeker, register here.

November 2: HBCU College Fair

My church, Mount Calvary Baptist Church, will host its 14th annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Career Fair on Saturday, November 2nd, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The event will feature a variety of workshops and seminars for students to learn about preparing themselves for college, applying for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS), internship and study abroad opportunities, entrepreneurship programs, and on-the-spot acceptance interviews! It is free and open to the public. Click here to learn which HBCUs will be present and register for the event.

November 5: Financial Seminar on Divorce and Money

The Montgomery County Commission for Women, in partnership with Montgomery County Public Libraries, has been hosting a series of free financial seminars throughout October and November! The final session of the series will take place virtually via Zoom from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on Tuesday, November 5th. The session topic is Divorce & Money, and the seminar will focus on ensuring financial stability and understanding your role in protecting your fiscal future.  Registration is required, and the organizers will send a Zoom link to attendees 24 hours before the event, so please click here to register.

November 10: Diwali Celebration

The BlackRock Center for the Arts will host a Diwali Celebration with the Kuchipudi Dance Academy on Sunday, November 10th, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM! Beginning with a traditional lamp lighting ceremony to commemorate the famous Hindu festival of lights, this event will feature a variety of workshops, delectable cuisines, vendors (including a henna artist), arts and crafts, and traditional and folk dance performances throughout the evening along with a DJ! Register and get tickets here.

November 11: Veterans Day

Rockville’s Mayor and Council will continue the city’s traditional ceremonies to commemorate Veterans Day at Veterans Park in honor of the men and women who served in the nation’s armed forces. The event will begin at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 11th, and free parking will be available. American Legion Post 86 will lead the wreath-laying ceremony and its honor guard will present a 21-gun salute.

November 14: MD 193 Public Workshop

The State Highway Administration will hold a public informational workshop on Thursday, November 14th, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Schweinhaut Senior Center to gather community input on pedestrian and bicycle safety needs along the MD 193 corridor. The workshop will allow attendees to view project details on maps and displays. State Highway Administration representatives will also be available to listen to your feedback and answer project-related questions. The maps, displays, and other information are available on the Project Portal page.

November 16: Walk with Councilmember Sayles at the Thanksgiving Day Parade

We invite you to join us for an exciting opportunity to walk alongside the Councilmember in the Thanksgiving Day Parade on Saturday, November 16th from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM! As a volunteer, you’ll be at the heart of this cherished event, showcasing our community and getting into the holiday spirit with Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas units that will be present. A fun and festive way to earn SSL hours, don’t miss out on this memorable experience—sign up today! The deadline to sign up for volunteering is Wednesday, November 13th.

November 19: HIP Virtual Tenant Information Session (UpCounty in-person on 11/12)

Rent Stabilization has been in effect since July 23, 2024! The Housing Initiative Partnership, Inc. (HIP) is partnering with the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA) to inform County residents about their rights and responsibilities as tenants through information sessions. During tenant info sessions, several topics of interest to tenants will be covered, including the new rent stabilization and renters’ rights legislation, the eviction process, tenants’ rights, and much more.

For November, the in-person session will be on Tuesday, November 12th, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the UpCounty Regional Services Center, and the virtual session will be on Tuesday, November 19th, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM via Zoom. For more information, contact HIP by email or by calling 301-916-5946.

November 19: Registered Apprenticeship Fair

In honor of National Apprenticeship Week, WorkSource Montgomery​​, along with Montgomery College, MoCo CAP, Montgomery County Public Schools, and the Maryland Department of Labor, will host an apprenticeship fair on Tuesday, November 19th, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, at the Montgomery College campus in Rockville. The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required.

November 22-23: 29th Annual Maryland Black Caucus Legislative Weekend

The 29th Annual Maryland Black Caucus Legislative Weekend is the primary fundraising event for the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation. This event supports the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland's mission to activate, educate, and mobilize the Black community around critical issues. This year’s theme is “Advancing Access & Opportunities for Black Marylanders.” The weekend program is designed to engage citizens, elected officials, subject matter experts, and industry leaders in reflecting on policies and legislation that have contributed to the upliftment of Maryland’s Black community. The event will occur from 9:00 AM on November 22nd to 11:00 PM on November 23rd at the Maryland Live! Casino and Hotel.

Community Resource Hub

• The Montgomery County Board of Elections is recruiting residents to serve as Election Judges for Election Day!
• It's more important than ever to get your flu shot this year. Make an appointment online to get your free flu shot at one of the County-sponsored clinics.
• Starting Nov. 1, people who receive Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) can get a private health plan and financial help through Maryland Health Connection.
• Montgomery County has received a $150,000 grant from the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) for its Food Truck Electrification Pilot program. The program aims to replace diesel-powered food truck generators with electric power systems, significantly reducing carbon emissions and improving public health.
• A highly invasive aquatic plant called two-horned trapa (Trapa bispinosa) has been found in a pond in Poolesville, marking the first sighting in Montgomery County. If you see this plant near ponds or streams, please report it.
• WorkSource Montgomery recently completed their FY2024 Annual Report, which includes extensive data, customer testimonials, and other highlights from serving diverse residents.
• If you are living with HIV in Montgomery County, you are not alone. Join our County’s monthly virtual support group meeting on Zoom every 4th Tuesday at 5:30 PM.
• For six weeks, from November 12 to December 17, a weekly parent-to-parent support group for pregnancy and early infant loss will meet on Tuesdays. This group offers a safe space for individuals to share their feelings and receive comfort from others who have experienced similar losses. The sessions are free and conducted virtually.
• Montgomery County Children’s Opportunity Alliance offers Pre-K Capacity Building Grant Funding for local child care centers – apply now!

If you have any questions or would like to contact me regarding anything in this newsletter or any other concerns, please email me at Councilmember.Sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7964.

If this email was forwarded to you and you are interested in subscribing to this monthly newsletter, click the button below. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to hearing from you and continuing to serve you as your Councilmember At-Large!

Sincerely,

Laurie-Anne Sayles

Councilmember At-Large