Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Tuesday, June 14, 2022
ROCKVILLE, Md., June 14, 2022 — Today Montgomery County Councilmembers Craig Rice, Sidney Katz and Council President Gabe Albornoz introduced Bill 14-22 that would establish a private security camera incentive program within the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). Rebates or vouchers would be available for individuals and businesses to offset the cost of purchasing a private security camera for their property. With the objective of deterring crime and assisting in criminal investigations, the Montgomery County Police chief would determine which priority areas in the County would benefit from the installation of private security cameras. Councilmembers Will Jawando, Nancy Navarro and Tom Hucker are co-sponsors of the bill.
“Violent crime has increased both locally and nationally, but we can utilize camera technology to help solve these crimes,” Councilmember Rice said. “Police recently used security camera footage to help solve a tragic murder in Germantown. By making security cameras available to members of the community who might not otherwise be able to afford them, we are empowering our residents to help make our communities safer.”
“I am pleased to support this program. It is another step forward as our community comes together to help solve crime in all ways possible,” said Councilmember Katz, who serves as the Public Safety Committee Chair.
“This program will be a great resource for families and entrepreneurs who cannot afford to buy security cameras to protect their homes and small businesses from crime,” said Council President Albornoz. “Unfortunately, Montgomery County has experienced a significant increase in violent crime these past few years, which has been exacerbated by the global pandemic. In 2021, there were 32 homicides, which is an increase of 80 percent compared to the prior year. This year alone, we have seen 15 homicides, and police have recovered 727 guns in Montgomery County. This program can be an essential component to help investigations, and empower residents to keep our communities safe.”
Other jurisdictions have implemented similar security camera incentive programs. In the District of Columbia, police requested security camera footage in 25 documented cases in FY21. During that period, nine arrests were made in part due to the video footage provided from program participants’ security cameras to include seven arrests made in murder cases, one in a sexual assault case, and one in a robbery case.
The Montgomery County Police Department would develop the application and maintain a record of the cameras registered through the program.The chief of police would submit an annual report to the Council regarding the implementation of the program, including the number of rebates and vouchers issued as well as an evaluation of the program’s efficacy.
A public hearing for the bill is scheduled for July 12, 2022. The staff report for the bill can be found here.
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17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Now in its 17th year, the Kensington Day of the Book Festival is a family-friendly street festival featuring 150+ renowned authors, poets, and literary organizations. Enjoy live music on five stages, special guest speakers, military veteran writers and comedians, poetry readings, cookbook demos, children's program, and much more.
Admission is free, and attendees will also be able to explore a marketplace of books and food offerings from local vendors.
Not your average book festival! This festival offers something for everyone!
17th Annual Kensington Day of the Book Festival
Sunday, April 21, 2024, 11am-4pm (held rain or shine!)
Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895
www.dayofthebook.com
Instagram: @kensingtonbookfestival
Contact: Elisenda Sola-Sole, Festival Director
301-949-9416 (text preferred)
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.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
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!!!
