Blanca Kling Awarded Roscoe R. Nix Distinguished Community Leadership Award for Serving Montgomery County Residents for Four Decades.

On December 17, Blanca Kling, who passed away in January 2021, was awarded the Roscoe R. Nix Distinguished Community Leadership Award for serving Montgomery County residents for four decades.

Blanca began working as a Victim Assistant in Wheaton for Montgomery County Police in 1980. In 2005 she transitioned to the Public Information Division with the goal of helping to strengthen communications between the police department and the Hispanic community.

On January 27th, Montgomery County Police announced the passing of Blanca Kling due to COVID-19 related pneumonia at the age of 68.

Montgomery County Police released the following statement after her death:

Montgomery County Police Mourns the Passing of Hispanic Liaison Blanca Kling:

The Montgomery County Department of Police mourns the death of Blanca Kling, our Hispanic Liaison, who lost her battle with COVID pneumonia this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with her husband, Tony, daughter Lizzie, son Jason, daughter-in-law Rachel, and twin grandsons Noah, and Matias. Blanca was a dedicated employee who spent over 40 years proudly serving this Department and always giving back to her community.
Blanca began her career in 1980 as a Victim Assistant in the Fourth District (Wheaton). She continued her work helping residents as a member of the Community Engagement Division and transitioned to working in the Public Information Division in 2005.
In her role in the Public Information Division, Blanca strengthened communication and understanding between the Police Department and Hispanic community members. Blanca wore many hats as a liaison, including graciously hosting town hall meetings, speaking about police matters on Univision, Telemundo, and various radio shows, and assisting investigators when they needed her. She embraced all these roles with selfless compassion.Blanca was not only a coworker to many but a caring friend. The number of people she helped during her career is immeasurable. Montgomery County and the world is better for knowing Blanca Kling.

The Montgomery County Council also released the following statement after her death:

Montgomery County Council Issues Statement on Blanca Kling’s Death

The Montgomery County Council offers its sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Blanca Kling. Born in Bolivia, “Blanquita,” as she was often referred to by many in our community, had a long track record of public service and a lifetime of dedication to County government and our constituents.

A pillar in the Latino community, in 2005 she became the County Police Department’s Latino liaison, where she would often appear in front of television cameras and behind radio microphones to inform, forge authentic relationships and build bridges of collaboration between our Spanish-speaking constituents and our police force.

In 2016, then-Congressman Chris Van Hollen, nominated Blanquita to receive the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award, this award is given to individuals and organizations that have used their voice, throughout the media, to promote and bring about change at the national level for crime victims. She established many important partnerships and initiatives and gave voice to the Latino community’s needs and concerns. Her unwavering commitment to our constituents enriched our County in immeasurable ways.

Blanquita was loved, deeply admired and respected by all in our community. Outside of work, she was a devoted grandmother, mother, wife and a mentor to many. Blanquita will be sorely missed, but the legacy of her service, and her many contributions to supporting and uplifting others will always be cherished.”

The awards ceremony, honoring Blanca Kling, can be seen below:

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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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