Per Montgomery County: Cooler weather often spurs cozy gatherings around the fire pit during the fall season.  The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) website features safety tips for those who will be using fire pits, fire bowls and chimineas. It is important to utilize the devices in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance, and to make sure at least one adult is supervising.

Fire pits and similar devices should be located at least 10 feet away from a home. It is important to keep a clear area of three feet in diameter around the fire pit. Mulch can catch fire quickly, so be sure and keep the fire pit at least three feet away from any nearby mulch.


Below you will see the unofficial election results for Montgomery County Board of Education, as of 7:13am on Wednesday, November 9th, with all precincts reported, per the Maryland State Board of Elections:

(258 of 258 election day precincts reported)


Below you will see the unofficial election results for Montgomery County Executive and Montgomery County Council, as of 7:13am on Wednesday, November 9th, with all precincts reported, per the Maryland State Board of Elections:

(258 of 258 election day precincts reported)


On Tuesday, Nov. 8, use code ‘VOTE22‘ in each app to take a discounted Capital Bikeshare ride for 50% off, up to $10, or for two free Bird Scooter rides to the polls. Lyft is also joining in, having released the following message:

We believe that everyone’s voice – and vote – deserves to be heard, and transportation should never be a barrier. That’s why this Election Day, Lyft is helping more people roll to the polls with access to discounted rideshare, bikeshare, and scooter rides.


“We have lost a hometown hero who served District 20 residents tirelessly for over four decades in Annapolis, as the longest serving woman in the Maryland General Assembly.

“Del. Hixson’s years of service include advocacy relating to civil rights, education, the environment, and raising awareness of and combatting child abuse, domestic violence and sexual harassment, among other social issues.


As Veterans Day approaches on Friday, Nov. 11, Montgomery County has joined the national “Operation Green Light” salute to veterans and the County’s Commission on Veterans Affairs is seeking additions to its virtual tribute to County veterans.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and the County Council are supporting Operation Green Light, a program sponsored by the National Association of Counties to honor those who have made immeasurable sacrifices to preserve freedom. The program asks for displays of a green light, from Nov. 7-13, in a window of businesses or residences to honor veterans.


The Office of Consumer Protection says unscrupulous sellers know how to “wash” the titles and hide the damage. However, the damage caused by water will eventually impact the life of the vehicle. OCP recently added to its staff automotive specialist Dave Elswick. Elswick, an Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)-certified investigator with 17 years of automotive technician experience. The ASE certification covers 28 areas of expertise and three master designations. He is available to help residents who think they might be buying, or have bought, a vehicle that was water damaged.


County health officials are urging all residents to get a flu vaccination. The County will hold a clinic for adults and children on November 10. Thursday, November 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Dennis Avenue Health Center (2000 Dennis Avenue Silver Spring, MD  20902). Make an appointment for a child six months to age 18. Make an appointment for anyone 19 years of age and older . Children ages 6  months to 18 years of age can also visit the weekly Immunization Clinic every Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Dennis Avenue Health Center for flu vaccine.  Appointments are required.  Call 240-777-1050 for appointments. More info below:


Residents are asked to pile leaves near the street, but off the road. They should avoid placing leaves on road shoulders, bike lanes and rain gardens as leaves in these areas can disrupt traffic, negatively impact stormwater drainage, hamper snow removal operations and become a fire hazard for automobiles parked over them. Leaf piles also limit the availability of residential parking and, especially when wet, can pose a hazard for cyclists and pedestrians. Since 1983, the County has been composting the leaves it collects at a County-operated facility in Dickerson. The compost produces a fertilizer called Leafgro, which is sold in retail stores.

“This program keeps fall leaves out of our storm drains and uses them for compost,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This valuable service helps our neighborhoods and provides a great product.”


View More Stories