The Montgomery County Council issued the following press release on Wednesday, April 10:
The Montgomery County Council announces the selection of Caven West as its new executive director responsible for leading the 100-person staff that provides fiscal and policy analysis of the $7.1 billion county operating budget and day-to-day oversight of all Council operations. The Council is scheduled to vote on Mr. West’s appointment on April 9. His work with the Council will begin on April 22. Mr. West succeeds Ms. Marlene Michaelson who is retiring after serving in the position since 2018.
“Following a comprehensive national search, Caven was the Council’s unanimous choice among an outstanding group of highly qualified candidates,” said Council President Andrew Friedson. “This role requires a seasoned leader with technical expertise managing large, complex government budgets and a proven track record of leading and developing teams to innovate and bring systems change. Caven has demonstrated expertise in all these areas at the city, county and state level, and we look forward to bringing his talents and knowledge to Montgomery County.”
Mr. West has more than 25 years of experience in senior executive roles in state, county, and city governments. In his current role as chief of staff for the Clerk of the City of Detroit, Mr. West oversees a $30 million budget and manages the finances, operations, and staff that support Detroit’s City Council and all federal, state, and city elections. As chief deputy director and chief of staff for the Clerk of Wayne County, Mr. West oversaw a $130 million operating budget and led day-to-day operations of the clerk’s office with eight division directors and a staff of 370 employees spanning five locations throughout Michigan’s largest county with a population of 1.7 million residents. As chief fiscal advisor for the Wayne County Commission, Mr. West was responsible for legislative oversight of the County’s $2.2 billion budget. He led a professional staff responsible for budget development and analysis and policy research. His early career included serving as a senior fiscal advisor to the Michigan House of Representatives, the non-partisan House Fiscal Agency, charged with providing fiscal advice and analysis to the Michigan Legislature.
Mr. West earned an MBA from the University of Michigan Stephen M. Ross School of Business and a master’s degree in public administration and an undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University.
“As the Council welcomes Caven West into his new role, we want to express our appreciation for the more than 35 years of service that outgoing Executive Director Marlene Michaelson has provided to Montgomery County and her commitment to facilitate a smooth transition of leadership,” said Council President Friedson. “The Council is fortunate to have an outstanding team of dedicated and talented professionals who work alongside us to serve the 1.1 million residents of our community.”
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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!!!
