Third Alarm Fire Traps Numerous People on Balconies Saturday Morning; Six Transported to Hospital So Far

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a a call for smoke reported on the seventh floor of an 18-story residential building, The Pointe, at 8750 Georgia Avenue in Silver Spring on Saturday morning.

According to MCFRS Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer, the building was being evacuated around 6am on Saturday morning with firefighters assisting people out. At 6:23am, Piringer tweeted that numerous people were trapped, mostly on balconies, and that several people were being treated for smoke inhalation. As of 7:20am, six people have been transported to the hospital and Georgia Avenue is closed in the area of Downtown Silver Spring (along with other roads). Initially a 2-alarm fire, Piringer later tweeted that it has become a third alarm fire.

“A three-alarm fire call will bring triple the amount of firefighters, trucks, and equipment to the scene of the fire. Any fire alarm dispatch that goes past 2 is considered a very big fire that could take considerable time to completely extinguish. Along with the additional firefighters and units that go out for a 3 alarm fire, the department may also send out a media relations crew to deal with journalists, and even a truck stocked with snacks and electrolyte drinks to keep firefighters sustained.”

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From the Offices of Councilmembers Will Jawando, Gabe Albornoz and Kristin Mink:

FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival

Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.

Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.

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Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

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