Message on School Security Preparedness by Takoma Park Police Chief

On Friday, Takoma Park Police Chief Antonio DeVaul released a message to the community regarding school security preparedness in the wake of the school shooting in Uvalde, Texas. The full message can be seen below:

“Our hearts are with the families of the children and teachers who lost their lives in the senseless act of gun violence in Uvalde, Texas, earlier this week.

There have been several questions about the tactics utilized by law enforcement in the incident in Uvalde. As the investigation of that incident and response continues, I wanted to update residents on our preparedness should an incident occur in Takoma Park. I want to stress there are no active threats to any schools in Takoma Park.

The City of Takoma Park Police Department has an Emergency Response Team (ERT). Officers on the ERT received advanced training in emergency response. In addition to the ERT, all of our officers have been trained on active shooter response. We have also conducted training drills at our schools, so we are familiar with the layout of the schools should an incident occur. Our officers are trained to immediately address and subdue any threat in an active shooter incident. We regularly train this response protocol.

We meet regularly with staff at all of our schools in Takoma Park to discuss security and other issues. Since the incident in Texas, we have been in contact with MCPS staff to ensure all security measures are in place to prevent and respond to any possible incident.

Hopefully, our training is something that we will never need to utilize here in Takoma Park. However, if an active shooter incident were to occur in Takoma Park, we are well prepared to respond.

We are committed to supporting, serving, and protecting our residents here in Takoma Park. Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions or concerns.”

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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!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

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