Caribbean Heritage Month - Breakfast and Proclamation
 This June, I was filled with immense pride as I hosted Montgomery County’s Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebration and Proclamation Breakfast. As a first-generation Jamaican American and the first Caribbean American elected countywide, this event holds deep meaning for me.
Gathering with our community to enjoy a traditional Jamaican breakfast, we celebrated not only our vibrant culture but also the strength and resilience that define us, especially in times of challenge. It was an honor to welcome distinguished guests, including the Ambassador of Jamaica to the United States, His Excellency Major General (Ret’d) Antony Anderson; Maryland State Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins; and the dedicated members of the Montgomery County Caribbean American Advisory Group, led by Rodrigue Vital and Venice Mundle-Harvey.
In a time when the federal administration aggressively targets immigrants and seeks to undermine diversity, equity, and inclusion, we will make our voices heard. This month stands not only as a celebration but as a powerful call to action. My Caribbean pride compels me to take a stand, uplift our community, and fight relentlessly for justice, ensuring that future generations thrive and receive the recognition they deserve.
Celebrating Pride Month
 This June, I proudly participated in several Pride events with our LGBTQ+ community.
We kicked off the month by raising the Pride flag at the Executive Office Building in Rockville during Montgomery County's 7th annual ceremony, showcasing our commitment to inclusion and equity. A highlight was the debut of Montgomery County’s Ride With Pride bus, wrapped in the vibrant “Radiating Love” design and illuminated with neon lights, celebrating LGBTQ+ visibility throughout June.
On June 7, I joined Mayor Bowser and thousands at the World Pride Parade in DC to celebrate love and unity. Later, on June 14, Sayles team members attended the Poolesville Pride Fest, where rural pride and community spirit shone beautifully.
Everyone in our County should be able to live their true, authentic selves proudly, regardless of who they love or how they identify.
Juneteenth
 This Juneteenth, I was proud to join neighbors, leaders, and changemakers in Montgomery County to celebrate the legacy and resilience of Black Americans. Each event reminded us of our progress and the work still to be done.
I began the day by speaking at the 3rd Annual Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival in Cabin John Village, endorsed by President Bill Clinton. I emphasized the importance of acknowledging our past, celebrating the present, and committing to a future that reflects the sacrifices of our ancestors. Later, I attended the Takoma Park Juneteenth Community Day with Mayor Talisha Searcy.
The weekend included a meaningful service at Poplar Grove Baptist Church, honoring freedom and unity, held in a church founded by formerly enslaved residents. I concluded the celebrations by participating in the Lincoln Park Historical Society’s 134th Annual Community Day and Parade, followed by the official Montgomery County Juneteenth Celebration at the BlackRock Center for the Arts, where Councilmember Will Jawando and I expressed our commitment to justice and equity.
As Montgomery County’s first Black woman elected countywide, I was overjoyed to see how our diverse community embraced this holiday. The teachings, culture, and celebratory elements enabled us to honor Juneteenth through our commitment to action, service, and a shared dedication to freedom, justice, and equality.
People’s Community Baptist Church Men’s Health Month
 On June 29 I joined former County Executive Ike Leggett and other distinguished guests at the People’s Community Baptist Church in Silver Spring for the closing event of Men’s Health Month and the 25th Anniversary of the Men’s Rites of Passage Program. Hosted by the Men's Fellowship Ministry, this powerful service—centered on the theme “The Path to Righteous Manhood”—celebrated faith, leadership, and community among generations of African American men. I was also proud to present a County Council citation recognizing the 15th Annual Golf Tournament and its continued support for this impactful ministry.
Independence Day
 Join Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles for the 2025 Fourth of July Parade in Takoma Park!
This year's theme, "Takoma Park: United We Stand," celebrates our community spirit in the face of a divisive Presidential Administration. The festivities kick off at 9:00 a.m., with the parade starting at 10:00 a.m. Don't miss this chance to walk with friends and neighbors as we celebrate our unity!
RSVP now to secure your spot: https://forms.gle/Q4U6MCbHgYzC2Cd7A. For questions, reach us at Councilmember.Sayles@montgomerycountymd.gov or 240-777-7964. We are stronger together, let's make it a day to remember!
S.M.A.R.T. Updates Around the County
Strengthen 21st Century Learning from Cradle to Career and Beyond
S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council
 I was honored to host an exciting "Welcome Back" field trip for alumni from all five cohorts of the S.M.A.R.T. Youth Advisory Council. This engaging day took us across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, highlighting the vital role of youth involvement in local government and community advocacy.
We started our journey at the Department of Environmental Protection Transfer Facility, where students explored the recycling process and learned about the county's climate initiatives. From there, we visited Montgomery College’s East Education Center and the VIVA White Oak Development site, showcasing strategic investments in education and community development.
A leadership luncheon at the Prince George’s County Council Chambers provided students with the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions with regional leaders about public service and policymaking. We concluded the day with hands-on activities at ECO City Farms, followed by a reflective session back in Rockville.
The impressive engagement and initiative demonstrated by our young leaders throughout the trip reaffirm the importance of the Youth Advisory Council in empowering them to envision and actively shape their futures.
President Williams’ East County Community Meeting
 Since its opening a year ago, Montgomery College’s fourth campus in East County has achieved remarkable progress and established itself as a vital community resource. The college plans to invest record amounts, including $500,000 for FY25 and $10 million for FY26, for land acquisition and development, positioning the campus for continued growth and enhanced educational access. The facility has already welcomed over 1,000 students and offers a variety of career-ready programs, reinforcing its commitment to making a lasting impact in the community.
Hope Grows Development Carnival
 Earlier this year, I visited the Hope Grows Child Development Center as part of the Read Across America initiative, which emphasizes the importance of literacy and encourages children to read. During my visit, I had the chance to tour the beautiful facility and observe the nurturing and enriching environment that supports early childhood education in Montgomery County. This month, I was excited to return for the center's Family Carnival, a beloved tradition that brings together over 100 families each year to celebrate community, culture, and connection.
Summer RISE & More
 This month, I was proud to welcome our two Summer RISE interns to our office. The Summer RISE (Reimagining an Innovative Student Experience) program is an initiative by Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) designed to provide rising high school juniors and seniors with hands-on, career-based learning opportunities during the summer. Over the next four weeks, this group of talented high school students will gain hands-on experience in local government, exploring a range of topics including legislative research, communications, public service, and policy development.
Our program kicked off with a tour of the Council Office Building and introductions to our S.M.A.R.T. agenda and County operations. Interns will shadow staff, attend community events, and complete a final research project tied to one of my S.M.A.R.T. focus areas: Strengthening education, Making Life More Affordable, Advancing Food Access, Revitalizing the Economy, and Tackling Climate Change. We’re excited to mentor these future leaders and look forward to seeing how they shape their interests into action throughout July!
DOCR MLR Graduation
 Team Sayles had the opportunity to attend the Model Learning Center Graduation Ceremony at the Montgomery County Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. It was a joyous occasion as we celebrated individuals who earned their high school diplomas and GEDs while incarcerated.
The event truly highlighted the incredible perseverance, determination, and courage of each graduate, showing that transformation and second chances are possible with the power of education.
Hearing the inspiring stories of resilience was a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting reentry, rehabilitation, and educational programs within our justice system. Congratulations to all the graduates and the dedicated educators who helped make these achievements a reality!
'Teach Truth' Day of Action
 I had the opportunity to join Montgomery County educator Amber Myren and community members at Pike Kitchen in Rockville for the impactful “Teach Truth Day of Action,” presented in partnership with the Zinn Education Project. This movement powerfully underscores the critical need for honest and inclusive history in our schools, particularly as the truth in education faces significant challenges nationwide.
Amber Myren, a dedicated U.S. history teacher at Richard Montgomery High School, organized this event to honor her immigrant students and firmly advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in Maryland classrooms. Our educators are on the front lines of protecting our students and educating them in an era of banning books, as well as families who are determined to ensure that every student sees their stories represented in their education.
Automotive Career Pathways Program Launch
 I was honored to attend the launch of the Automotive Career Pathways Program. This exciting new initiative opens doors for underserved Latino youth to pursue meaningful careers in the automotive industry.
Hosted at Chevy Chase Acura in downtown Bethesda, the event showcased a powerful partnership between Identity, Inc., the Maryland Automobile Dealers Association, and the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association.
Through hands-on training and mentorship, this program is helping young people gain the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a high-demand field, while also building a more inclusive and diverse workforce across Montgomery County. I'm proud to support efforts that drive opportunity to secure a living wage and empower our next generation of talent.
Make Living in Montgomery County More Affordable
Rockville Housing Enterprises Capstone Presentation
 I was honored to share words of inspiration to the graduating class of YouthBuild students, hosted by Rockville Housing Enterprises at Montgomery College, which celebrated the achievements of 13 inspiring young participants from the Fall 2024 cohort.
Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, YouthBuild: RHE empowers Montgomery County youth aged 16 to 24 who face educational and employment challenges by providing workforce training, GED support, and personal development tools.
Participants reflected on their journeys toward self-sufficiency, showcasing their progress through impressive portfolios that demonstrated resilience and growth. Programs like YouthBuild are vital in fostering a more inclusive and empowered future.
HAND 34th Annual Meeting & Housing Expo
 I attended the 34th Annual Meeting and Housing Expo, alongside former County Executive At-Large George Leventhal PhD, hosted by the Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers (HAND) at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, D.C. This year’s theme, “Housing and ____,” highlighted the connections between housing and areas like education, health, and economic opportunity.
The event included a policy-driven plenary session and the launch of HAND’s updated Housing Indicator Tool, which tracks regional housing progress. They also honored leaders in affordable housing and community development with the Housing Achievement Awards, GenerationHAND Scholarships, and the Children’s Essay Contest. It was an inspiring day that reinforced the idea that housing is essential for thriving, equitable communities. Learn more at www.handhousing.org.
First Home Mortgage Grand Opening
 Thank you to the Bethesda Chamber of Commerce for inviting me to celebrate the grand opening of First Home Mortgage’s newly merged Gaithersburg and Bethesda branches! With a highly skilled team of experienced loan officers, First Home Mortgage is committed to guiding clients through every aspect of the homebuying process. Their tailored support for both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners empowers everyone to achieve their dream of homeownership. Their impactful work not only expands access to sustainable housing but also plays a vital role in strengthening our communities across Montgomery County. I was also delighted to bump into my Leadership Montgomery classmate and Branch Manager, Michael Parsons, and to congratulate him on this bold new chapter!
Farm to Table Restaurant Week
I’m excited to announce the inaugural Farm-to-Table Restaurant Week, in partnership with Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) and Visit Montgomery! Join us from Sunday, October 12, to Saturday, October 18, 2025, to celebrate Montgomery County’s vibrant culinary scene while promoting sustainable food practices and our agricultural reserve.
Outreach to restaurants is underway, and we’ve already received considerable interest from those looking to participate in this exciting economic boost! Suppose you are willing to offer exclusive, specially curated menu items at reduced prices featuring locally sourced ingredients from any of our county’s farms. In that case, you will benefit from Countywide marketing, increased community engagement, and partnerships with local artisans!
If you are interested in being part of this exciting celebration, complete the Interest Form by July 25, 2025. Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Please stay tuned for more information.
Montgomery County Black Business Expo 2025
 This year, the Montgomery County Black Collective organized its 2nd Annual Black Business Expo at The Universities at Shady Grove. The vibrant event united more than 70 Black-owned businesses, nonprofit organizations, and government entities, highlighting the incredible talent, entrepreneurship, and innovation within our community. The expo showcased a wide variety of offerings, such as skincare brands, photographers, personal trainers, and tax experts, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy.
With over 300 attendees last year and even greater numbers this year, it was uplifting to see the ongoing growth and support for Black businesses across the country. As a member of the Economic Development Committee, it was a welcome celebration of economic empowerment, community engagement, and innovation.
Public Hearing on Viva White Oak Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Proposal – July 8
The County Council will hold an additional public hearing on Tuesday, July 8, at 1:30 PM to discuss the creation of a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district near the FDA Headquarters and Adventist Hospital in White Oak. This TIF would allocate tax revenues generated by new development to fund infrastructure improvements in the proposed 294-acre area. The Viva White Oak project aims to establish a mixed-use community, featuring thousands of new homes and commercial spaces for innovative biotech businesses. To provide testimony in person or via Zoom, please sign up here by July 7 at 2:00 PM. Make your voice heard!
AI and Tech Summit
 In my opening remarks at the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's AI and Tech Summit on June 24, I emphasized how artificial intelligence is transforming our economy and the necessity of including small, minority, and women-owned businesses in this evolution. I discussed Montgomery County's initiatives that promote inclusive economic growth, such as expanding our MFD procurement law, funding the Mobilize Montgomery Career Center, and launching the AI Innovation Center. I also highlighted our initiative to provide free generative AI training for county employees. I reaffirmed my commitment to equipping all communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized, with the tools and resources they need to thrive and succeed. Ultimately, I stressed that when our small businesses succeed, we all succeed.
African Roots and Cultures Expo
 I was genuinely delighted to be a Guest of Honor at the African Roots & Cultures 2025 Expo, hosted by the Ethio-American Chamber of Commerce at the Silver Spring Civic Building. It was such a wonderful gathering that brought together African embassy professionals, U.S. officials, and community leaders to celebrate the exceptional cultural heritage, history, and global impact of our African communities.
The evening highlighted vibrant traditions, an entrepreneurial spirit, and inspiring cross-cultural exchanges from the African diaspora. It warmed my heart to see the pride, unity, and economic potential shining bright, reminding all of us how important it is to honor our shared heritage while creating opportunities for the future. A big thank you to the Ethio-American Chamber for their fantastic leadership and dedication to uplifting African immigrant voices in Montgomery County and beyond!
Poolesville Chamber Mixer
 I recently had the pleasure of attending the Mega Multi-Chamber Mixer, which brought together 12 county chambers at the beautiful Crossvines venue in Poolesville. It was a wonderful evening spent connecting with local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders who are driving innovation and growth throughout our region.
Our county Chambers remain a vital force in supporting Maryland’s diverse business community, providing education, advocacy, and networking opportunities for businesses of all sizes and stages. As a strong supporter of inclusive economic development, I was proud to participate in this event and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to uplift and empower businesses throughout Montgomery County.
Powersolv Celebrates New HQ in Rockville
 Rockville with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last week, marking its move from Reston, VA. This relocation, supported by Montgomery County’s MOVE Grant Program, highlights the county's commitment to fostering a vibrant tech and business environment.
With $248 million invested last year through its Minority, Female, and Disabled-Owned Business Program, Montgomery County continues to create opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Here’s to new beginnings and a bright future!
Montgomery County and WMATA Announce New Developer for Mixed-Use Innovation Campus in North Bethesda
 It was an exciting morning in North Bethesda when Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) announced the selection of Hines, a global real estate investment manager, as the developer for a transformative mixed-use development in the area. This innovation campus, anchored by the University of Maryland’s Institute for Health Computing, highlights the county’s commitment to fostering the growth of its already vibrant life sciences and technology industries.
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Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman released the agency’s first report on the impact of the federal government on Maryland’s economy. The report, produced in partnership with the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, provides a quantitative analysis of the baseline economic impact of federal government spending and direct federal employment in the state of Maryland. The report also includes reflections from federal workers now seeking employment after workforce reductions. |
Adventist Visit and Tour
 I recently had the opportunity to tour Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove and learn about their transformative patient care tower. I was deeply impressed by the progress, partnerships, and community support fueling this community-changing project.
The six-story, 150,000 sq ft tower, originally budgeted at $180 million, is slated to feature all-private inpatient rooms, a modern Emergency Department, an expanded ICU, and a Clinical Decision Unit to enhance patient care.
The generosity of local donors especially moved me. The family of the late Lois Aschenbach made a $1 million gift, which they dedicated to naming the Emergency Department in her memory. Ron and Joy Paul also made a significant contribution to the new ICU. These remarkable acts of philanthropy reflect the strong community commitment to ensuring Montgomery County residents have access to top-tier care close to home. This tower isn't just a construction project; it's an investment in patient dignity, efficiency, and healing for generations to come.
Allium Place Ribbon Cutting
 On June 26, the Sayles team joined Habitat for Humanity and Affordable Homes & Communities (AHC) in celebrating the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony of Allium Place Community, formerly known as the Randolph Road project. This visionary development will provide 195 families with access to affordable, high-quality housing and vital community resources.
Thanks to strong public-private partnerships and support from the Montgomery County Council, Allium Place now includes 168 rental homes, 24 condos, three single-family homes, an affordable childcare center, a half-acre park, MoCoNet connectivity, and proximity to a future Bus Rapid Transit line. This is the kind of collaborative investment we need to ensure all residents can live, work, and thrive in Montgomery County.
Federal Updates From the Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR)
We’ve received these updates from the U.S. House of Representatives, and this is how it will trickle down to affect us here in Montgomery County.
The House has passed a proposed budget that includes significant cuts to SNAP, Medicaid, and other benefits programs. If enacted, these changes would have a profound impact on Montgomery County’s food system, imposing financial burdens on the state, expanding work requirements, and eliminating key education programs, such as SNAP-Ed. Locally, food assistance providers are already feeling the strain due to reduced federal food supply programs and donor funding. The Office of Food Systems Resilience (OFSR) is responding by expanding food recovery programs, increasing school-based food support, enhancing referral tools, and convening interagency emergency response planning. OFSR is also working to mitigate federal cuts through local investment and strategic coordination.
This means there is a significant potential impact on farmers & food banks. Cuts to federal food purchasing programs are reducing the supply of fresh food and threatening small farms and food banks, such as the Capital Area Food Bank.
Big news from the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board (TPB)! Montgomery County received an $80,000 TLC grant to develop a Bikeshare Improvement Plan focused on expanding and improving access along the MD 355 corridor from Friendship Heights to Shady Grove.
The TPB also approved FY26 funding for the Regional Roadway Safety Program, including an $80,000 grant to the City of Rockville for a feasibility study of a Complete Street along the Rollins-Twinbrook corridor, aimed at improving pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Finally, Montgomery County will see changes to its Regional Activity Centers for the first time since 2013. New additions include the Life Sciences Center (Fallsgrove/Crown Farm), King Farm (now its center), and Frederick Ave/Lakeforest Mall. Olney has been removed from the list. These updates help guide transportation and development planning across the region.
Prathertown Heritage Day
 I had the honor of attending Prathertown’s Heritage Day, a powerful celebration of history, resilience, and community in one of Gaithersburg’s most cherished neighborhoods, founded by formerly enslaved people in 1883.
The rededication of the historic marker, the walking tour, storytelling, and shared memories all served as profound reminders of the importance of preserving and uplifting Black history right here in Montgomery County.
Thank you to the Prathertown community and Heritage Montgomery for hosting this meaningful event. It was a privilege to walk among neighbors and elders who inspire us with their unwavering strength and enduring legacy.
GGCC Public Safety Awards Breakfast
 Team Sayles had the privilege of attending the 31st Annual Public Safety Awards Breakfast hosted by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce. This cherished tradition honors the bravery and dedication of our local law enforcement and fire-rescue personnel.
It is a heartfelt honor to recognize these public safety heroes, whose selfless service is vital to the safety of our community. Their commitment to protecting us is deeply appreciated, and I am proud to celebrate their remarkable, life-saving work.
Congratulations to Director Robin Riley on an incredible milestone!
 Director Robin Riley’s retirement after 40 years of dedicated service to Montgomery County Recreation marks the end of a remarkable chapter, and it’s a bittersweet moment for all of us. From her humble beginnings as seasonal staff in 1981 to her current role as Director, Robin has touched countless lives through her unwavering passion, inspiring leadership, and deep commitment to community wellness.
Listening to her reflections on the latest episode of the Inside Recreation podcast was genuinely moving. She shared heartfelt lessons she’s learned along the way and painted an inspiring vision for the future of recreation in our County. Thank you, Robin, for your years of hard work and dedication. You have left an indelible mark on Montgomery County, and your presence will be greatly missed. Wishing you all the best as you embark on this new chapter in your life.
This special episode of the Inside Recreation podcast pays tribute to Director Riley’s incredible journey and the profound impact she has made.
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