Message From Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich provided an update on the number of residents who have been vaccinated for COVID-19 and explains that the County is working toward establishing a mass vaccination site.
He also explained how his Fiscal Year 2022 Recommended Operating Budget will help the County recover from the grip the virus had over the past year—and that it includes full funding for Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College.
His message can be seen below:
“Dear Friends,
Will MoCo get a mass vaccination site?
Yes. We just don’t know when. But we do know that, at some point, we will get many more vaccines and we need to be ready. And we will be ready. We are setting up the logistics now.
We are making progress:
- 75 percent of our 75 and older residents have received at least one dose.
- 65 percent of our residents who are 65-74 years old have received at least one dose.
- 30 percent of residents 16 and over received at least one dose.
- The Federal government will be sending more doses.
Reason for caution:
- About 70 percent of our adult residents are not yet vaccinated.
- The County’s seven-day average number of cases per 100,000 residents is still significantly higher than it was late summer/early fall, as is shown in the County Vaccine Dashboard.
- The State’s case count average is higher now than it had been from early August through October.
- There are multiple, aggressive variants of COVID-19 in Maryland.
- We do not know how many or when doses from the Federal government will arrive.
- Increased eligibility for vaccines should not be confused with the availability of vaccines. Demand continues to exceed supply.
- Trying to schedule an appointment with limited doses continues to be frustrating and needs a better system. We continue to ask the State to modify the program to streamline the process.
What now?
- Please be patient. If you are not yet vaccinated, you will be.
- Get tested if you think you might have been exposed to COVID-19.
- Even if you are vaccinated, when in public, continue physical distancing, frequent handwashing and masking wearing.
We are getting through this together.
With appreciation,
Marc Elrich
County Executive
P.S. I sent my Fiscal Year 2022 Recommended Operating Budget to the County Council on Monday. I am very pleased that, even after a year of a pandemic, we were able to propose a budget that:
- Fully funds our education partners at Montgomery County Public Schools and Montgomery College.
- Improves economic development.
- Tackles climate change.
- Increases mental health and other support for our residents in need.
- Provides record funding for affordable housing.
- Reimagines public safety.
- Fully funds recommended funding for public financing.
- And much more.
You can read my budget memo here.
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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!!!
