Maryland

With Independence Day right around the corner and high inflation threatening Americans’ financial independence, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on 2023’s Most Independent States. This study follows WalletHub’s reports on the Best Places for 4th of July Celebrations and Most Patriotic States.

To determine the most self-sufficient states, WalletHub compared the 50 states across 39 metrics, which measure how dependent Americans are on the government and other people for finances, their jobs and personal vices. You can find highlights from the report below.


Darnestown

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a call for an explosion that occurred in the 14200 block of Cervantes Ave in the Seneca Estates neighborhood near Seneca Rd on Tuesday evening.

According to the initial report by MCFRS Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer, it was communicated that a model rocket malfunctioned and resulted in an explosion inside of the garage of a single family home. The investigation later revealed that the explosion occurred due to illegal fireworks that were misused with modifying components. Crews arrived to see smoke coming from the garage of the home and were able to extinguish the fire.


DMV

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has forecast a Code Orange air day for the metropolitan Washington region today: Wednesday, June 28. Smoke coming from wildfires in Canada will contribute to the increased levels of fine particle pollution.

The Code Orange levels mean the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups, including older adults, children, and people with heart or lung disease. On unhealthy air days, COG advises the following health precautions:


Burtonsville

The Montgomery County Board of Education approved the following administrative appointments:

Pamela B. Wheeler-Taylor, currently Assistant Chief, Youth and Family Engagement Bureau, Metropolitan Police Department, as Chief Safety Officer, Office of Systemwide Safety and Emergency Management, Office of the Chief Operating Officer


Darnestown

Updated to reflect that the explosion occurred due to illegal fireworks

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) responded to a call on the 14200 block of Cervantes Ave in the Seneca Estates neighborhood near Seneca Rd on Tuesday evening.


Beyond MoCo

Mercedes Phillips, a former police officer in Montgomery County, is featured in a new campaign ad for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in his bid for the Republican nomination for President of the United States (video available below).

In the advertisement, Phillips states she was a police officer in Montgomery County for three years and that “it’s a really big difference when you have the Governor of an entire state that supports law enforcement because I know that trickles down immediately to the community because when the government supports law enforcement, then they follow suit.”


Restaurants

Flames & Crapes, a new halal food truck, recently opened  at 801 Hungerford Drive in Rockville. Owner Ashraf Said is originally from Egypt and has been a MoCo resident for over 18 years. He is bringing years of experience in restaurant management. His fiancé Marelyn is originally from El Salvador and, also a MoCo resident. They tell us she “brings the flavors of Latin America to many of the foods offered.”

The menu features a variety of dishes, including classic American fare like a steak and cheese, chicken sandwich, mango habanero wings, and more. Latin-American fare is also featured, such as yuca frita, pupusas, and tamales. They also offer a variety of crepes– both sweet and savory.


Education

Large crowd (hundreds as of 1:30pm) are protesting outside of the Board of Education meeting at the Carver Educational Services Center in Rockville (850 Hungerford Drive). The protest stems from MCPS’ no-opt-out policy when it comes to the use of LGBTQ+ inclusive books in schools. Video of the protests can be seen below.

In anticipation of the public interest for the school board’s meeting, MCPS implemented safety measures ahead of today’s meeting. Per MCPS:


Aspen Hill

A collision has lead to an overturned vehicle on Connecticut Ave at Georgia Avenue in Aspen Hill on Tuesday afternoon. Metrobus has warned of possible delays in north directions due to the blockage.

According to our public safety reporter Cordell Pugh, one occupant was extricated and taken to an area trauma center. Expect delays if you are driving in the area. Expect delays if you are driving in the area. Featured photo sent in by Instagram user @rossiearmas


Crime

11:38am update by MCPD: The victim has been transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries at this time. This appears to be an isolated incident.

Montgomery County Police 6th District officers are responding to a shooting call on the 18200 block of Lost Knife Circle (across the street from Lakeforest Mall) in Montgomery Village/Gaithersburg. Per police, more information will be released as it becomes available. Featured photo courtesy of Google Maps.


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