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"Look Before You Book"
I joined County Executive Marc Elrich, advocates, and our public safety community to help kick off the County's new "Look Before You Book" campaign to increase awareness of safe massage and wellness services. We can stop human trafficking by looking for the signs. Check out the information for more.
Breeze Thru the Trees 5k & Fun Run
Breeze Thru the Trees is back! Grab your friends, family, and neighbors for an energizing way to welcome spring at this 5K race and one-mile fun run through the beautiful Ruppert Nurseries on Sunday, March 22. This community event supports the Children’s Opportunity Alliance.
New Grant Program to Support Local Farmers
Montgomery County has launched a new Food Aggregation Grant Program to help connect small, local farms with schools, hospitals, senior centers, and other institutional buyers — strengthening our regional food system and expanding market opportunities for farmers. By shortening supply chains and investing in local agriculture, this program will help keep more of our food and revenue local while improving access to fresh, nutritious food for our community.
Ride on Transit Advisory Group (TAG) - Now Recruiting
Ride On is currently seeking applicants for its Transit Advisory Group (TAG) and is encouraging participation from high school students, seniors, people with disabilities, and bilingual residents. TAG members serve two-year terms and meet three times per year to provide input on Ride On service and help improve transit for our community. This is a great opportunity to share your perspective and help shape the future of public transportation in Montgomery County — and students can earn Student Service Learning (SSL) hours. Interested residents can apply online.
Free Tax Preparation for Income-Eligible Residents
Montgomery County’s Community Action Agency is offering free tax preparation through April 9 for households earning $69,000 or less through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Certified preparers can help complete and file 2025 federal and state returns at multiple in-person locations across the County and through virtual appointments. Services are also available for taxpayers filing with ITINs, with application assistance offered at select sites. If you or someone you know could benefit from this free service, I encourage you to schedule an appointment and take advantage of this opportunity to save money and ensure your taxes are filed accurately and on time.
Montgomery County Rec Spring Registration is open!
Registration for Montgomery County Recreation’s spring programs opens Wednesday, February 18 at 6:30 a.m. for County residents, with senior programs opening at 9 a.m. and non-resident registration beginning February 20. From sports and fitness to arts, aquatics, and therapeutic recreation, there are hundreds of programs for residents of all ages to stay active, try something new, and build community this spring. I encourage families to review the digital Spring Guide and register early, as popular classes fill quickly. Financial assistance is also available through the Rec Assist program for eligible residents.
RespectFest 2026 - Save the Date
Mark your calendars for RespectFest 2026, a weeklong series of activities promoting respect, inclusion, and community connection from March 8–15, culminating in an in-person celebration on Sunday, March 15 from 1–4 PM at the Wheaton Community Recreation Center. This free event will feature performances, workshops, a resource fair, games, activities, and free food, with opportunities for students to earn SSL hours throughout the week. RespectFest is a great opportunity for young people and families to connect with community resources and celebrate what brings us together.
If you would like to get in touch, please email me at Councilmember.Luedtke@montgomerycountymd.gov or call my office at 240-777-7860.
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