| CRAIG RICE'S PHOTOS |
County Council Recognizes RETIRING FIRE CHIEF - April 16, 2013
After more than 35 years with the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, including the past four years as fire chief, Richie Bowers is retiring. He will soon become the fire chief in Fairfax County. On April 16, the County Council honored Chief Bowers with a proclamation and a special County plate—and the chief was able to relate some of the lighter sides of his career that saw him hold every rank in the department. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Hans Riemer; Council Vice President Craig Rice; Councilmember Nancy Floreen; Council President Nancy Navarro; and Councilmembers Phil Andrews; George Leventhal, Roger Berliner and Marc Elrich.
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County Council Celebrates The Muslim Community Center Medical Clinic - April 9, 2013
A DECADE OF HEALTHCARE . . . The Muslim Community Center Medical Clinic in Silver Spring has been providing healthcare services to anyone 18 or older without health care coverage since June of 2003. On April 9, the Montgomery County Council recognized the 10th anniversary of the organization’s determination to work with community partners to help those in need. At the ceremonies in Rockville, from left to right, were: Council Vice President Craig Rice; Council President Nancy Navarro; Azad Ejaz of the clinic; Councilmember George Leventhal; Asif Qadri, former director of the clinic; and Safia Qadri Qureshi and Tahoora Kawaja of the clinic.
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Two of the 19 people awarded 2012 Presidential Citizens Medals by President Obama are Montgomery County residents - April 9, 2013
PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL HONOREES . . . Two of the 19 people awarded 2012 Presidential Citizens Medals by President Obama are Montgomery County residents, and on April 9, both addressed the Montgomery County Council. Terry Shima (second from left) was a member of the segregated 442nd Combat Team in World War II that was composed of Japanese-American volunteers. The unit became the most decorated unit in American military history. Maria Gomez (second from right) founded Mary’s Center in Silver Spring. The center provides health care, family literacy and job training to individuals representing more than 110 countries. Councilmember Valerie Ervin (left), Council President Nancy Navarro (center) and Phil Andrews presented proclamations on behalf of the Council.
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The month of April kicks off Child Abuse Prevention Month - April 2, 2013
County Executive Isiah Leggett was joined by County Council Vice President Craig Rice (left) and Agnes Leshner, director of Child Welfare Services, part of the Department of Health and Human Services to kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month and urged residents to help families and children through the “Power of One” campaign. The backdrop was a sea of blue pinwheels, part of a national campaign “Pinwheels for Prevention!
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National Agriculture Day - March 19, 2013
In honor of National Agriculture Day, the County Council honors the Farmers and Leaders in the Montgomery County Ag Reserve. The purpose of National Agriculture Day is to increase awareness of agriculture's essential role in our community and what a strong vibrant farming industry adds to our economy. It is important that we understand how our food and other products are produced and appreciate the vibrancy and strength of the agricultural industry as well as its history and heritage within our county. We heard from David Weitzer, Billy Willard, Tony Cohen, Lonnie Luther and Jamie Jamison who told us that “Farming is not a lifestyle, it is our way of life!”
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The County Council Celebrates National Agriculture Day - March 19, 2013
GOT MILK? .... Montgomery County farmer David Weitzer raised a toast of bottled chocolate milk as the Montgomery County Council saluted the County’s farmers as part of the celebration of National Agriculture Day. In 1981, Montgomery created its Agricultural Reserve—which has been called the country’s most successful farmland preservation program as it protects 93,000 acres of farmland and open space. Among those at the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: County Council President Nancy Navarro; Tony Cohen of the Button Farm historic site in Germantown; Councilmember Roger Berliner; local farmers Lonnie Luther, Billy Willard and Jamie Jamison; and Council Vice President Craig Rice.
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Dr. Judith Docca, a member of the Montgomery County Public School Board - March 19, 2013
Dr. Docca, was honored by the County Council for having been selected by the Maryland State Education Association to receive the 2013 Minority Recognition Leadership Award. Council Vice President Craig Rice presented the Proclamation.
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A TRUE LEADER...JUDITH DOCCA, Ed.D- March 19, 2013
Dr. Judith Docca was honored by the Montgomery County Council on March 19 for having been selected by the Maryland State Education Association to receive the 2013 Minority Recognition Leadership Award. The award salutes individuals who have had a significant impact in education at the national, state and local levels. Dr. Docca, now a member of the Board of Education, spent 38 years with Montgomery County Public Schools, serving in numerous roles. At Argyle Middle School, Dr. Docca was an administrator while Craig Rice, second from left, was a student. Now a Councilmember, he presented a proclamation to Dr. Docca on behalf of the Council. Also at the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Roland Ikheloa, chief of staff of the Board of Education; Board Vice President Shirley Brandman; Board member Phil Kauffman; Dr. Docca; Board President Christopher S. Barclay; and Board members John Mannes and Michael A. Durso.
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County Executive Isiah Leggett nominated two new Assistant Police Chiefs - March 12, 2013
County Executive Isiah Leggett (front row 2nd from right) joined Police Chief J. Thomas Manger (far left), Assistant Chief Betsy Davis (front row far right), and all of the members of the Montgomery County Council for the Council’s unanimous approval of Leggett’s nomination of two new Assistant Police Chiefs. The appointments of the new Assistant Chiefs, Captain Darryl McSwain (front row 3rd from left) and Commander Luther Reynolds (front row 4th from left), became effective immediately after the Council's unanimous vote.
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Read Across America Day celebrates Dr. Seuss - March 1, 2013
Montgomery County Council Vice President Craig Rice reads Why Abraham Lincoln Grew a Beard by, Steve Metzger/illustrated by Ann Kronheimer to the students at Lois P. Rockwell Elementary School in Damascus in celebration of Read Across America Day, an annual reading motivation and awareness program that calls for every child in every community across the USA to celebrate reading during the first week of March around the birthday of beloved children's author Dr. Seuss.
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Montgomery County Council Celebrates Black History Month - February 26, 2013
Council Vice President Craig Rice (Right) in celebration of Black History Month, recognized Anthony (Tony) Cohen (Left) for his persistent dedication and determination to preserve the legacy of Button Farm's underground railroad as well as Maryland's only living history center depicting 19th century slave plantation life. Button Farm is located on 60 acres inside of Seneca Creek State Park in Germantown and provides hands-on history educational programs and activities for K-12 students, home school groups, universities, educators, corporate groups and the general public.
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Montgomery Village Middle School Students Honored - February 15, 2013
Montgomery Village Middle School is “On a Roll”…the Honor Roll that is! From letft to right, Dr. Edgar E. Malker, Principal, Ms. Ginger Corpuz, Assistant Principal, Mr. Everett Davis, Assistant Principal, Council Vice President Craig Rice, 8th Grade Team Leaders, Ms. Kimberly Carter Dawn Lemon and Wendy McDermott, and World Studies Content Specialist Don Milner gather to celebrate ‘straight a” and honor roll students, Winter Sports Recognition and Awardees, the Geography Bee winners, Character Counts, Self-Discipline for December, Acceptance & Honesty winners of the month and Responsibility for February award recipients! The students were thrilled for their parents, teachers, administrators, staff and their Councilmember to see these positive traits in them.
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Council Vice President Craig Rice is Guest Speaker at Northwest High School’s African American Parents’ Council (AAPC) Celebration of Achievement and recognition of Black History Month - February 7, 2013
Councilmember Rice joins Northwest High School administrators and parents to recognize and celebrate honor roll and “straight A” students. From left to right, Mr. John Robertson, Assistant Principal, Mrs. Lance Dempsey, Principal, (student), Montgomery County Council Vice President, Craig Rice, Ms. Lori Green, African American Parent Council President. (Lilly M. Greenlee, photographer) | |
Coalition of Elected Leaders and Non-profit Providers to Shop for Groceries to Kick-off SNAP the Silence Challenge - February 4-8, 2013
Photo by Michael S. Williamson/THE WASHINGTON POST - February 11, 2013 - Craig Rice, vice president of the Montgomery County Council, walks along a meat and dairy section that he mostly had to avoid for budget reasons. Members of the council are trying to live on $5 a day worth of food. "Council members'week on food subsidy both personal and political...by Bill Turque, the Washington Post...But it was the mental and emotional grind that seems to have resonated with officials. Rice said "eating became less pleasurable and more of a source of tension". | |
Council Celebrates Black History Month- February 5, 2013
RECOGNIZING BLACK HISTORY … Two significant events in American history were recognized on Feb. 5th as the Montgomery County Council saluted Black History Month. This year’s theme of “At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington,” celebrates the respective 150th- and 50th-year anniversaries of these events that changed the course of the nation. Among those at the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Elbridge James, Council Vice President Craig Rice, Daniel Koroma, Tina Clarke, Darlene Roots-Douglas, Councilmember Valerie Ervin, Shirl Spicer, Vernon Ricks, Julian Norment, Ruby Rubens, Odessa Shannon and Charlotte Coffield. | |
Council Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary- February 5, 2013
50 YEARS OF HELPING . . . Holy Cross Hospital, which admits more than 30,000 patients annually and is the only hospital in Maryland to receive the Workplace Excellence Award from the Alliance for Workplace Excellence every year since 1999, was honored by the Montgomery County Council on Feb. 5 as the Silver Spring facility celebrates its 50th anniversary. Holy Cross will soon open another hospital in Germantown. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Council Vice President Craig Rice; Councilmember Valerie Ervin; Judith Rogers, the president of Holy Cross; Council President Nancy Navarro; and Eileen Cahill of Holy Cross. | |
Home Builders Care Foundation Honors 2012 Community Service Award Winners at their Winter 2013 dinner meeting. - January, 2013
Each year, as a way to gratefully acknowledge their supporters, Home Builders Care recognizes select individuals and organizations for their significant contributions in support of HBCF’s efforts to help the poor and disadvantaged in our communities.In January, Council Vice President was truly privileged to present the Community Builder Award to Mr. Dick Pettit (pictured left) one of the Home Builders Care Foundation’s most consistent and generous supporters. | |
CONGRESSMAN SARBANES VISITS - January 29, 2013
Congressman John Sarbanes, whose Maryland 3rd Congressional District now includes part of the eastern portion of Montgomery County, visited with the County Council on Jan. 29 in Rockville. The informal meeting touched on a wide variety of subjects, including the County’s hope to get federal help to support its future transportation needs. Congressman Sarbanes made many points, including this one intently listened to by Councilmember Phil Andrews (left), Council President Nancy Navarro and Council Vice President Craig Rice. | |
Germantown Community Meeting - January 28 2013
GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY MEETING …Montgomery County Council Vice President Craig Rice continued his series of informal meetings with residents around District 2 when he hosted a Germantown Community Meeting on Jan. 28 at the Black Rock Center for the Arts. A number of issues were discussed, including the prospects of future transportation improvements such as the planned Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT),construction of the Wegmans grocery store and shopping center and the new Holy Cross hospital .Councilmember Rice thanked project manager Rick Kiegel for his status report on the CCT and County Police Officer Marcus Dixon for offering a presentation on public safety issues,including school safety. | |
Council Vice President Craig Rice holds Germantown Community Meeting - January 28, 2013
GERMANTOWN COMMUNITY MEETING . . . Montgomery County Vice President Craig Rice continued his series of informal meetings with residents around District 2 when he hosted a Germantown Community Meeting on Jan. 28 at the BlackRock Center for the Arts. A number of issues were discussed, including the prospects of future transportation improvements such as the planned Corridor Cities Transitway (CCT). Other topics of discussion included updates on construction of the Wegmans grocery store and shopping center along Father Hurley Boulevard and the new Holy Cross hospital that is being built on the Montgomery College campus. Councilmember Rice thanked project manager Rick Kiegel for his status report on the CCT and County Police Officer Marcus Dixon for offering a presentation on public safety issues, including school safety. | |
BIG THOUGHTS ON SMALL BUSINESS - January 17, 2013
Montgomery County Council Vice President Craig Rice was among the speakers on Jan. 17 at a forum on small business hosted by Montgomery Community Media (MCM) in Rockville. He talked about the important roles small businesses hold throughout the County and the increasing ways the County is working toward helping small business owners. (MCM Photo) | |
The Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS® (GCAAR) invite the Montgomery County Council to attend a Legislative Breakfast - January 14, 2013
Council Vice President Craig Rice (speaking), and Councilmembers Hans Reimer and Roger Berliner pictured to the right, joined in on what turned into a great opportunity to meet REALTORS® from the Montgomery County and Washington, DC area. The GCAAR Government Affairs Department monitors and provides lobbying of legislative and regulatory issues for REALTORS® in Montgomery County, Maryland and Washington, DC. | |
Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Session - January 2-4, 2013
The Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) held its 2013 Winter Conference session during the first week in January. Agenda items included a discussion of county services with a focus on innovative best practices, service delivery during emergency situations, and open and transparent government. Pictured from left to right are: Montgomery County Council Vice President Craig Rice who also serves as the Council’s representative to the Maryland Association of Counties in Annapolis, Councilmember George Leventhal, Councilmember Hans Riemer, County Executive Isiah Leggett, and the Director of the Department of Technology Services, Sonny Segal. | |
RECOGNIZING A BIG ASSIST...
Everett Davis of Montgomery Village Middle School was honored by the Montgomery County Council on Dec. 11 after he was selected as the 2012-13 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Maryland Association of Secondary School Principals. The association honors exemplary principals and assistant principals serving middle and high school students in public, private and independent schools. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Councilmember Craig Rice, who presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council; Mr. Davis’s wife, Dr. Kisha Davis; and his parents, Angela and Michael Davis. | |
Council Vice President Craig Rice meets with Youth Robotics Club
"Engineers have always played a prominent role in driving innovation and creating jobs. As a nation we've made incredible progress on education, helping students to finance their college educations, but we still don't have enough engineers" – President Obama. Council Vice President Craig Rice supports these young men who attend North West High School in Germantown. They are becoming leaders in a global economy dependent on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and he believes they will help drive this country forward! | |
SENATOR CARDIN VISITS - December 10, 2012
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin met informally with the members of the Montgomery County Council on Dec. 10, talking about serious issues such as transportation, the status of relocating federal facilities to the County, immigration and education funding. However, there was still time for a few lighter moments, as shared here, left to right, by Council Vice President Craig Rice, Councilmember Phil Andrews, Senator Cardin and Council President Nancy Navarro. | |
NEW COUNTY COUNCIL OFFICERS - December 4, 2012
Nancy Navarro was unanimously selected as the new president of the Montgomery County Council on Dec. 4. She became the first Latina president of the Council. Craig Rice was unanimously selected as vice president. They will serve one-year terms. | |
SEEING INSPIRATION - November 27, 2012
Angie Fuentes, who was born blind, but refused to attend schools for the blind, instead opting for a mainstream educational experience and the challenges that would bring. This year, the Seneca Valley junior became the only known blind student in the area to take advantage of the Maryland state rule that schools must provide students with disabilities equal opportunities to participate in mainstream sports as long as the accommodation does not change the character of the sport or pose a safety hazard. On Nov. 27, Councilmember Craig Rice, on behalf of the Montgomery County Council, honored Angie for her accomplishments competing for her Germantown school’s cross-country team through the aid of a ‘guide runner’ who connects with her via a baton. At the ceremonies in Rockville, left to right, were her mother, Karla; Angie, Seneca Valley Athletic Director Jesse Irvan; Jordana Ashe, a Seneca coach; Seneca Principal Marc Cohen; and Councilmember Craig Rice. | |
AN UNTOLD STORY OF WORLD WAR II - November 27, 2012
The Montgomery County Council on Nov. 27 honored Japanese-American veterans of World War II, many of whom chose to live in the County over the past seven decades. Many of the soldiers volunteered for military service after being among the 117,000 Japanese-Americans placed in internment camps after the war started. The segregated 442nd Regimental Combat Team fought fiercely, such that 93 percent of its members were either wounded or killed in action. The 442nd holds the distinguished honor of being the most decorated unit in U.S. military history. Among those at the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Kendall Griffith, Principal Judy Brubaker and Anaiya Rice of Spark Matsunaga Elementary School in Germantown; County Executive Isiah Leggett; Leilani Meyers and Lauren Penn of Spark Matsunaga; Terry Shima, a member of the 442nd; Council President Roger Berliner; Gordon Aoyagi, former director of Montgomery County’s Department of Homeland Security; Calvin Ninomiya; and Raymond Murakami. | |
In the Food and Friends Kitchen volunteers prepare food for the home-bound. - November 21, 2012
Councilmember Rice and Staff visited Food and Friends along with D.C. Councilmember at Large, David Cataina and his staff to help prepare 390 meals or more for Thanksgiving Day. All had a great time volunteering with Craig Schniderman, (middle) founder, leader and Executive Director of Food and Friends. | |
Montgomery County Thanksgiving Day Parade - November 17, 2012
Councilmember Craig Rice kicks off the holiday season with family and friends celebrating the 15th Annual Montgomery County Silver Spring Thanksgiving Day Parade. | |
Councilmember Craig Rice talks Economic Development - November 16, 2012
Legislative Affairs Vice-Chair Josh Bokee introduced the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerece (MCCC) members and welcomed Councilmember Craig Rice. | |
DARNESTOWN HERITAGE PARK OPENS - November 10, 2012
The Montgomery Parks division of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission on Nov. 10 opened Darnestown Heritage Park, the newest of its system of 417 parks. The park is located along Route 28 and celebrates the history of the town through educational panels and interpretive sculptures by artist Cheryl Foster. The park features seating areas and plaza space to accommodate community gatherings and lunch outings. Among those at the dedication ceremonies, were, left to right: Mary Bradford, M-NCPPC’s director of parks; County Councilmembers Phil Andrews and Craig Rice; County Executive Isiah Leggett; Chris Collins and Lisa Patterson of the Darnestown Civic Association; Francoise Carrier, chair of the M-NCPPC Planning Board; Scott Mostrum of the Darnestown Civic Association; and Jamie Kuhns, historian of M-NCPPC. (Photo by Bob Thompson) | |
October is Fire Prevention Month - October 24, 2012
The Arora Home Owners Association of Clarksburg held a very productive public safety and security communications meeting. To my left above is Commander Luther Reynolds, of the 5th District Police Department, Montgomery County Community Services Officer, Marcus Dixon, also from the 5th District and Fire Chief, Richard Bowers who shared that 50% of Montgomery County homes don't have working smoke detectors, but county residents can call 311 and the Fire Department will come out to check smoke detectors for you. Fire Chief Bowers stated that CO (carbon monoxide) detectors should be in all homes, and stressed that CO it is the silent killer and alarms can save lives when placed low by furnace, water heater or portable generator. | |
Montgomery County Council Honors Gold Medal Winners - October 23, 2012
HONORING CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL WINNERS ... Both heros recounted some of their experiences in World War II on Oct. 23 as the Montgomery County Council honored Mr.John Henry Chaney and his lifelong friend Mr. Charles Frazier. Councilmember Craig Rice, left, presented proclamations to the veterans, who were members of the first black unit in the U.S. Marines. Mr. Frazier (middle) and Mr. Chaney who were in the Battle of Iwo Jima, were also present in June when 366 surviving members of the original 19,000 members of the segregated unit were awarded Congressional Gold Medals the nation’s highest honor for civilians. | |
Councilmember Rice supports The 30th Annual Potomac Day Celebration, October 20, 2012
Montgomery County Councilmember Craig Rice, U.S. Representative for Maryland's 8th Congressional District, Congressman Chris Van Hollen and US Senator for the State of Maryland, Senator Ben Cardin join in at the 30th Annual Potomac Day celebration and festival. | |
Councilmember Rice supports the PGA web.com Neediest Kids Champion, October 1-7, 2012
Councilmember Craig Rice and the PGA web.com Neediest Kids Champion, David Lingmerth at the TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm golf course in Potomac, MD. Neediest Kids builds a bridge to success by giving low-income, at-risk students the basic essentials they need to get the education they deserve. With the support of the Greater Washington Community and this tournament, thousands of children in grades K-12 receive eyeglasses, coats, clothing, school supplies, food, personal care items, and other essential goods and services to help more children overcome the everyday barriers to academic success. | |
The Mooseum's 9th Annual Wine and Cheese Benefit and Silent Auction - October 14, 2012
Councilmember Craig Rice with Barbara McGraw, Mooseum volunteer. The Mooseum was built in 1930 and is the last surviving structure of the of the James King farm. The Mooseum (a dairy barn) is located in south Germantown Recreation Park (Soccer Plex Property), and serves as a wonderful piece of history in the Upcounty. | |
The Great Pumpkin Race and Festival - October 13, 2012
Councilmember Rice, enjoys racing his pumpkin creation in the Montgomery Village Great Pumpkin Race...can't wait until next year! | |
Montgomery Village Great Pumpkin Race and Festival - October 13, 2012
A beautiful sun filled warm fall day in Montgomery Village brought the community out for the 3rd Great Pumpkin Race and Festival! | |
Councilmember Rice and Mayor Katz - October 13, 2012
Montgomery County Councilmember Craig Rice and Gaithersburg Mayor Sydney Katz support the 3rd Montgomery Village Foundation Great Pumpkin Race. | |
-LIBRARY SNAPSHOT DAY - October 10, 2012
Montgomery County Councilmember Craig Rice read Kele's Secret, by Tolowa M. Mollel, and Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, by Mo Willems, to a very appreciative and engaged group of children at the Quince Orchard Library during the thrid annual Library Snapshot Day celebration. Snapshot day is celebrated by libraries across the state to demonstrate and to record the many ways libraries contribute to their communities. | |
Interfaith Works Celebrates 40th Anniversary! - October 9, 2012
Council President Roger Berliner and Councilmember Craig Rice, present a Proclamation recognizing the 40th Anniversary of Interfaith Works, to Marie Henderson, Executive Director. Happy 40th Anniversary...Interfaith Works! | |
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month October 9, 2012
CHAMPION OF CHANGE: Silvia Rodriguez Macdonald, an ESOL teacher at Lois P. Rockwell Elementary School in Damascus, was recognized by the Montgomery County Council because she was recently named a Champion of Change by the White House and the Presidents Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Champions of Change are honored for doing extraordinary things in their communities and for promoting the teaching profession. The Council honored Ms. Rodriguez-McDonald as part of its ceremonies saluting Hispanic Heritage Month. To her left are Council Vice President Nancy Navarro and Councilmember Craig Rice, who presented her with a proclamation on behalf of the Council. | |
- International Walk to School Day- October 3, 2012
Fire & Rescue Chief Richard Bowers and County Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Craig Rice joined students, teachers and parents at Dr. Charles Drew Elementary School to celebrate International Walk to School Day. About 40 schools throughout the County held events that promote safe walking and biking and enhance connections between families, schools and the broader community. | |
- Africian Heritiage Month - September, 2012
Councilmember Rice meets with members of the African Women Council, Inc. Nathalie Malabani, Board Member and Program Director, Mary Hammon, African American Relations Coordinator and Marie Rose Sirikari, President/Founder during African Heritage month in September. | |
- Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting - Kohls in Aspen Hill - September 26, 2012
Kohl's Grand Opening at Northgate Plaza Shopping Center in Aspen Hill with County Councilmembers Phil Andrews, Nancy Navarro, Nancy Floreen and Craig Rice, County Director of Economic Development Steve Silverman, Kohl's District Manager Gregg Welter and Store Manager Josh Cavaness. The cash registers are ringing loudly! | |
Councilmember Rice Participates in the Montgomery County Vision Walk - September 23, 2012
The Foundation Fighting Blindness is a national nonprofit driving research that will lead to preventions, treatments and cures for retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome and the entire spectrum of retinal degenerative diseases that affect more than 10 million Americans. Since 1971, the Foundation has raised more than $450 million as the leading non-governmental funder of retinal research. Breakthrough Foundation-funded studies using gene therapy have restored significant vision in children and young adults who were previously blind, paving the way for using this method to treat a variety of retinal degenerative diseases, and proving a cure is in sight. With a network of nearly 50 chapters, the Foundation also provides support and resources to affected individuals and their families in communities across the country. | |
Councilmember Rice attends Ribbon Cutting for South Germantown TennisPlex- September 15, 2012
Montgomery County opened its first new tennis center in three decades at South Germantown Recreational Park in Boyds. Montgomery TennisPlex features eight air-conditioned indoor courts, four outdoor courts and a clubhouse. The grand opening and ribbon cutting included free tennis clinics and high-energy cardio tennis. From left to right, Cathy Matthews, Upcounty Regional Services Center Director, Gabriel Albornoz, Director of the Department of Recreation, Trish Heffelfinger, Executive Director of the TennisPlex and Montgomery County Councilmember, Craig Rice (District 2). | |
Councilmember Rice visits Red Wiggler Farm - September 15, 2012
Red Wiggler Community Farm "Creates meaningful jobs so that adults with developmental disabilities can succeed at work. The farm grows and sells high quality, farm-grown vegetables, herbs and flowers. Provides Service Learning for youth to engage in small-scale farming while learning about the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and the natural world. Operates a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program in Montgomery County MD that increases the food supply for the community and local food banks. Activities occur in cooperation with nature and through the lens of environmental stewardship." Red Wiggler Farm is what community is all about! | |
Councilmember Rice visits Red Wiggler Farm - September 15, 2012
Councilmember Rice joins in the dedication of the new building on the Red Wiggler Community Farm followed by music, food and cheer! | |
Councilmember Rice celebrates the grand opening of the First Fuel Station in Montgomery County - August 29, 2012
Pictured left to right are: Safeway Eastern Division President Steve Neibergall, Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett, Fuel Station Manager Anthony Darlington, County Councilmember Craig Rice, Congressman Van Hollen’s Community Liaison Karen McManus, Safeway Vice President/Marketing Operations Rick Stein, and Safeway Real Estate Representative Renee Montgomery. Offering customers an opportunity to earn up to $1 discount per gallon of gas, Safeway opened its first fuel station in Montgomery County at 26300 Ridge Road in Damascus. The station will operate in conjunction with the Safeway supermarket, located nearby at 9807 Main Street in Damascus. | |
Womens Power Conference Luncheon - August 30, 2012
Councilmember Rice supported the Department of Economic and Development’s third Women’s Power Conference which focused on Business Development and Contracting, Technology and Marketing, and Personal Development for Business Growth. | |
Preparing for the October 11th Annual Interfaith Gala - August 30, 2012
Mayors, councilmembers, delegates, county executives, board members, and staff gathered to paint bowls for Interfaith Works’ October 11th gala. | |
Honoring The Stablers...Agricultural Leaders - August 13, 2012
The Drew and Bob Stabler families joined an elite group in February of this year when they were inducted into the Governor’s Agriculture Hall of Fame. They were recognized for the honor on Aug. 13 at the annual Agricultural Leaders’ Luncheon held during the 64th Montgomery County Agricultural Fair at the fairgrounds. Making the presentation were Montgomery County Executive, Isiah “Ike” Leggett and Councilmember Craig Rice, on behalf of the Council, District 2 which encompasses a large part of the Agricultural Reserve. | |
Councilmember Joins the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber to Honor 106 Public Safety Officials - August 10, 2012
Over 180 people were in attendance as several members of the Gaithersburg Police Department, Montgomery County Police 5th & 6th Districts & Montgomery County Fire & Rescue and Volunteer Fire & Rescue were recognized for their service. The Chamber recognizes the heroic deeds of our local law enforcement and fire-rescue workers in four categories: Medal of Valor, Citation for Bravery, Distinguished Service Citation & Meritorious Service Citation. These men and women go above and beyond the call of duty to serve our local community and we appreciate them and their hard work. From left to Right, Commander Willie Parker-Loan, 6th District, Councilmember Craig Rice, Police Chief Thomas Manger and Commander Luther Reynolds, 5th District Police. | |
Councilmember Rice Celebrates the New Farmer Pilot Project Presented by the County Executive - August 6, 2012
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett launched the New Farmer Pilot Project, a unique approach to training and mentoring new farmers by placing them on individual, longer-term, leased sites with the hope that new farmers will stay in Montgomery County. Pictured are (from left to right): County Councilmember Craig Rice; farmer and Maryland Conservation Advocate Audubon Naturalist Society Delores Milmoe; Department of Economic Development Director Steven A. Silverman; Leggett; Montgomery Countryside Alliance Executive Director Caroline Taylor; Wade Butler, farmer; State Senator Karen Montgomery and Red Wiggler Farm Executive Director and Founder Woody Woodroof. | |
Chamber Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - June 29, 2012
The Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) recently celebrated a grand reopening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new offices. Over 65 people attended, including County Executive Isiah “Ike” Leggett, State Senators Nancy King & Jennie Forehand; State Delegates Charles Barkley & Brian Feldman; County Councilmembers Nancy Floreen & Craig Rice; Gaithersburg Mayor Sidney Katz and Gaithersburg Councilmember Henry Marraffa. The Chamber office is now located at 910 Clopper Road, Suite 205N, Gaithersburg,MD 20878. | |
COUNTY COUNCIL HONORS FOSTER CARE FAMILIES - July 31, 2012
HONORING FOSTER FAMILIES … Amanda Uribe, who has been a foster family member in the household of Cheryl and David Shive for the past two years, relates her thanks for the Montgomery foster program and announces that she will be entering the University of Maryland this fall as the Montgomery County Council on July 31 saluted the County’s volunteer foster families. Nationwide, there are more than 400,000 children annually living with foster families and Montgomery County is constantly seeking more families to host foster children. At the ceremonies in Rockville honoring foster families were, left to right: Councilmember Craig Rice; Agnes Leshner, director of the County’s Child Welfare program; Tina Perkins, Flo Ann Brown and Pamela Saunders of the Child Welfare office; Cheryl and David Shive; and their daughter, Faith. | |
WATCHING THE COURTS … CourtWatch Montgomery - July 31, 2012
CourtWatch Montgomery, is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that is fighting domestic violence by working to improve the process that abuse victims face as they move through the court system. On July 31, 2012, the County Council honored the Courtwatch volunteers who monitor restraining hearings and documents, using their studies to recommend innovative approaches gleaned from other judicial systems and from recent research. In less than two years since the group was formed, CourtWatch has observed more than 1,000 restraining order hearings. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: myself; volunteers Joyce Batipps, Judy Whiton and Gail Greenberg; CourtWatch Executive Director Laurie Duker; volunteer Eileen Bernstein; and Councilmember Phil Andrews. | |
PROTECTING THE RIGHTS OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES - July 24, 2012
Jackie Simon, who recently was presented with the Alfred McKenzie Award by the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs for her efforts to help people with disabilities, was honored by the Montgomery County Council on July 24. She was given the McKenzie award for her role in changing the fundamental restructuring of housing policies throughout the metropolitan area and nationwide, and those restructured policies have opened countless doors of equal opportunity for minorities. Councilmember Craig Rice presented a proclamation to Ms. Simon on behalf of the Council. | |
Leggett Celebrates Completion of Seven Transportation Projects Paid for with Recovery Act funds - July 23, 2012
Councilmember Rice celebrates the fact that the Seven Transportation Projects helped tremendously with our county's economic development by putting people back to work. | |
Leggett Celebrates Completion of Seven Transportation Projects Paid for with Recovery Act funds - July 23, 2012
Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett (third from left) celebrated the completion of a road repaving project that improved more than 43 miles of seven roadways using $6.744 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding. Overall, the County received nearly $168 million in ARRA funding for a variety of projects that have helped businesses get people back to work. Joining Leggett were (from left to right): Department of Transportation Director Art Holmes, County Councilmember Craig Rice, Senator Barbara Mikulski, Congressman Chris Van Hollen, County Council President Roger Berliner, and State Delegates Charles Barkley and Jim Gilchrist. | |
Jacob Bogage, a 2012 graduate of Sherwood High School is honored by the County Council! - July 17, 2012
HEADLINE NEWS... Jacob Bogage, a 2012 graduate of Sherwood High School in Sandy Spring, laughs in telling about some of his experiences as he was honored by the Montgomery County Council on July 17 for winning of the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association annual Michael S. Powell High School High School Journalist of the Year Award. Jacob, who is headed to the University of Missouri, served as a writer and editor for Sherwood’s Warrior newspaper, created a web site for the newspaper and contributed to The Washington Post’s All-Met section. Councilmember Craig Rice presented a proclamation to Jacob on behalf of the Council. | |
Councilmember Rice supports local businesses - July 13, 2012
Giant Food has served our Metropolitan community for over 75 years! Along with County Executive Ike Leggett, community members, Giant shoppers, managers, and associates, we celebrated the Neelsville Village Center store’s revamping, at 20950 Frederick Road, in Germantown. The revamped Neelsville Giant now features a full-service meat department, an increased produce selection, an expanded selection of flowers, a redesigned deli service, and a greater variety of baked goods. | |
Councilmember Rice joins County’s Commission on People with Disabilities to support a Charter Amendment on the November ballot. - June 21, 2012
HIRING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES... Aaron Kaufman, one of the area’s strongest advocates to help people with disabilities, was among the speakers on June 21 as Councilmembers Phil Andrews (second from left) and Craig Rice (right) joined County Executive Isiah Leggett and Trish Gallalee, chair of the County’s Commission on People with Disabilities, to urge the County Council to place a Charter Amendment on the November ballot to establish “a special hiring authority within the County merit system to recruit, select and hire persons with significant physical or cognitive disabilities.” The County’s Charter Review Commission will hold a public hearing on June 28 on issues that residents believe should be changed in the Charter. | |
Councilmember Rice speaks to the “Cadets” attending the Montgomery Village Promise Academy.- June 20, 2012
The Montgomery Village Promise Academy is organized and run by the Montgomery County Police Department’s 6th District Police Officers in partnership with many other community leaders. Their mission: to provide the “Cadets” with leadership development principles such as finding inner strength and courage during challenging situations and understanding the power of each individual to make a difference. Sponsors, Watkins Mill Town Center, The Rotary Club of Montgomery Village, Montgomery Village Foundation, Subway, McDonald’s, Costco, Jersey Mike’s, Mamma Lucia’s, Trader Joe’s, H Mart, Robert Buchanan, Lilly Magilly’s, Chick-Fil-A, Kehilal Shalom, Staples, and Hampshire Pawn. | |
Councilmember Rice and family celebrate the Fatherhood Initiative Event - June 16, 2012
Councilmember Rice and his family joined the Fatherhood Initiative event where he spoke at the Second Annual Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sponsored Fathers Involved Picnic. The theme of the event “A Father Involved Makes a Child Evolve” Councilmember Rice stated that "being a father is a lifetime labor of love" Many families came out to celebrate with their children as they enjoyed a fathers’ basketball tournament, softball toss, face painting, drawings, moon bounce relay/games performances, music and a great lunch. The Housing Opportunities Commission (HOC) Executive Director, Stacy Spann, and his HOC volunteers were onsite providing resource information to all participants. | |
Councilmember Rice Attends Annual Montgomery Village (MV) Legislative Breakfast - June 16, 2012
Seen here with Councilmember Nancy Floreen (Councilmembers Phil Andrews, George Leventhal, Marc Elrich and Hans Riemer also attended), the Montgomery Village Board of Directors thanked the Council for increasing the number of officers in the 6th District Police Department, funding the Apple Ridge Road resurfacing, keeping the Gaithersburg Library construction schedule, funding the Wellness Center at Watkins Mill High School and for local pedestrian safety upgrades. | |
Neelsville Middle School Class of 2012 Promotion - June 12, 2012
Along with Neelsville Middle School Principal, Mrs. Vicky Lake-Parcan, her staff, parents and students, I had the honor of addressing the Eighth Grade Class of 2012 by giving the congratulatory address. What a privilege it was to share and to congratulate all for their many achievements! Remember class of 2012…be true to yourselves and what is in your hearts! Again…Congratulations! | |
Mark Shriver's Book Signing - June 9, 2012
Mark K. Shriver's recent book signing, in honor of his memoir, A Good Man…Rediscovering my Father, Sargent Shriver, which was hosted at the home of Lori and Bill Askinazi. Attended by Steven Goldstein, Chief of Staff, who advised that the occasion was absolutely a delightful celebration of Sargent Shriver’s life, acknowledging some of his many good deeds and exhibited what a good man Sargent Shriver was and the great legacy he leaves behind. | |
Rockville Hometown Memorial Day Celebration - May 28, 2012
Councilmember Rice participates in the 69th Memorial Day Parade in Rockville. Photo courtesy of Jeff Zyontz | |
"The Ag Reserve has been called the county's most successful farmland protection effort" - May 24, 2012
Councilmember Rice bags groceries at the Whole Foods in Kentlands to help raise money for the Montgomery County Agriculture Reserve alongside members of the Montgomery Countryside Alliance. | |
Greater Olney Civic Association - May 20, 2012
Councilmember Rice returns to Olney for the 29th Olney Days Parade! | |
Laytonsville, Maryland Community Parade “Soaring into the Future” - May 19, 2012
Councilmember Rice attends the Laytonsville Annual Parade sponsored by the Town of Laytonsville, Laytonsville Lions Club, Laytonsville Woman’s Club, Laytonsville Historical Center, Laytonsville Volunteer Fire Department, and the Laytonsville Elementary School PTA. | |
Councilmember Rice attends Roberto Clemente MS - May 3, 2012
Councilmember Rice attended the National Junior Honor Society celebration in honor of the Roberto Clemente Middle School Induction ceremony. | |
Fit Third Graders Honored - May 1, 2012
Throughout its long history, Flower Valley Elementary School has emphasized fitness for its students, and on May 1, the Montgomery County Council recognized the school’s third graders for their efforts to stay fit. The third graders have researched the importance of physical fitness and have been keeping a calendar to track their physical fitness activities. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right, in front: students Amara Mnawuchi, Casey Majewski, Jessica Rogers, Spencer Hughes, Madison Reese, Jordon Ibrahimi and DJ Flowers. In back: Councilmember Phil Andrews, Flower Valley Principal Wilma Holmes, Councilmembers Valerie Ervin and Craig Rice, and Flower Valley third grade teacher Mary Kohler. | |
Councilmember Rice celebrates Bring your Daughter or Son to work day - April 26, 2012
For Bring Your Daughters and Sons to Work Day 2012, I brought my oldest daughter to work with me. This is a great opportunity to inspire a future generation of girls and boys by helping bring them into the workplace to explore the many life choices they have. | |
Together, Councilmembers Andrews and Rice Present a Proclamation - April 24, 2012
TWICE IS NICE … The Gaithersburg High School girls basketball team, which finished 27-0 and extended its two-year winning streak to 52 straight games, was honored by the Montgomery County Council on April 24 after it became only the second Montgomery County team to win back-to-back Maryland 4A state girls championships. During its two-year domination, Coach Adrian McDaniel’s team won every game by eight points or more. Councilmembers Phil Andrews (far left) and Craig Rice (second from left) presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council. Gaithersburg Mayor Sidney Katz (second from right) was among those attending the ceremonies. | |
Minority Health Month - April 24, 2012
With the commitment that every American should have the opportunity to live healthier, the Montgomery County Council presented a proclamation in recognition of National Minority Health Month. Research has shown that members of some minority groups may suffer substantially more health problems and expect to live 20 years less than others because of where they live, their race, their education and their income. The members of the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee—George Leventhal (fourth from left), Craig Rice (fifth from left) and Nancy Navarro (sixth from left)—presented the proclamation. Those at the ceremonies included Ava Jackson of the African American Health Program; Cesar Palacios and Sonia Moro of the Latino Health Steering Committee; and Sam Mukherjee, Perry Chan and Jamie Weng of the Asian American Health Initiative Committee. | |
Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent's Leadership Program comes to the County Council - April 24, 2012
Councilmember Rice, along with Councilmember Andrews and Board of Education member Judy Docca, attended a presentation by the Superintendent's Leadership program. These senior high school students informed us of their internships and community service project which partnered with Sodexo in helping feed the hungry. The Superintendent's Leadership Program is a wonderful honors career and leadership development program geared to gaining insight and awareness of career paths as well as county needs. Congratulations to this year's graduating class! | |
Legislative Session Wrap-Up - April 18, 2012
Councilmember Rice addresses the 15th Democratic Caucus Legislative Session Wrap-Up of the 430th Session of the Maryland General Assembly along with Senator Rob Garagiola, Delegate Brian Feldman, Delegate Kathleen Dumais and Delegate Aruna Miller. U.S. Congressman Elect, John Delaney was also in attendance and addressed members of the caucus. | |
A thousand welcomes when anyone comes... That's the Irish for You! - March 17, 2012
Councilmember Rice, family and friends totally enjoyed the St. Patrick Day Parade sponsored by the Harp and Shamrock Society of Gaithersburg, the City of Gaithersburg and the Washingtonian Center. | |
Councilmember Craig Rice brings Montgomery Village Community together at Watkins Mill High School - March 7, 2012
Councilmember Rice, Montgomery County Police Chief Thomas Manger and County Executive Ike Leggett kick off the Montgomery Village community meeting about plans for more police staffing in the Village. | |
Montgomery County Officials draw Montgomery Village Residents - March 7, 2012
Montgomery Village residents listen to county plans to fund additional staffing for the Sixth District Police Station | |
Read Across America Day - March 2, 2012
On Read Across America Day Councilmember Rice read to Stephanie Speicher’s third grade students at Lois P. Rockwell Elementary School in Damascus. What an inspiring and engaging exchange! | |
BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL … Rachel Carson Elementary School in Gaithersburg was recognized by the Montgomery County Council for being one of six public schools in Maryland—and the only one in Montgomery County—to receive the prestigious Maryland State Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award. March 6, 2012
Among the standout accomplishments of Rachel Carson Elementary are that its students have reached an all-time achievement high of 98 percent proficient and advanced levels in reading and 98.3 percent proficient and advanced levels in math. At the ceremonies in Rockville, left to right, were: Councilmembers Craig Rice, Valerie Ervin and Phil Andrews; Board of Education member Judy Docca; Rachel Carson Elementary Principal Lawrence Chep; Rachel Carson staff members Patti Connell, Nancy Blumenschein and Brenda Long; and County Superintendent of Schools Joshua Starr. | |
Councilmembers Nancy Navarro, Nancy Floreen and I celebrated the 2011 Greater Olney Civic Association (GOCA) Awards. Members who have made some very special contributions were honored. March 3, 2012.
The Ron Berger Heritage Award was presented to Helene Rosenheim for her many contributions to the community. Other awards were given to Paul Jarosinski, Citizen of the Year, Joe Buffington, for Contributions to the Community, Dawn Cutwight, Olney Home for Life, and GOCA Worker of the Year, Lori Goodwin. Congratulations! | |
Councilmember George Leventhal recognizes Montgomery Cares - February 14, 2012
Health and Human Services Committee Honoring the important work of Montgomery Cares with Councilmember George Leventhal, who chairs the committee along with Nancy Navarro and Craig Rice. | |
Councilmember Rice Celebrates Black History Month with the William B. Gibbs, Jr, ES - February 10, 2012
My Dad, three children, and "President Lincoln" celebrating Black History Month with the William B. Gibbs, Jr. ES, in Germantown. What a delightful and inspirational evening...sponsored by the NAACP and PTA Cultural Awareness Committee. | |
Gaithersburg Middle School English teacher Madeline Hanington was recognized by the Montgomery County Council - January 31 2012
MILKEN AWARD WINNER … Gaithersburg Middle School English teacher Madeline Hanington was recognized by the Montgomery County Councilon Jan. 31 for winning a prestigious Milken Award, which is considered one of the top national honors for teachers. At the ceremonies in Rockville were, left to right: Councilmembers Craig Rice and Phil Andrews, Ms. Hanington, Gaithersburg Middle School Principal Carol Godard and Councilmember Valerie Ervin. | |
KNIGHTED AS CHAMPIONS … Kelly Wakeman, Coach of the Montgomery College women’s soccer team - January 24, 2012
KNIGHTED AS CHAMPIONS … Coach Kelly Wakeman amused everyone on Jan. 24 as the Montgomery College women’s soccer team was honored by the Montgomery County Council for winning the school’s first-ever National Junior College Athletic Association women’s soccer championship. The Knights finished 17-3 in 2011, earning Coach Wakeman honors as national coach of the year. In the season before she became coach, the Knights won only one game. In the last five seasons, they are a combined 62-12-1. In recalling some of the lighter moments on the path to becoming national champions, Coach Wakeman drew laughs from her players and Councilmembers (in front, left to right) Craig Rice, Phil Andrews and Valerie Ervin. | |
Boy Scouts of America- December 14, 2011
SCOUTING THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT … The Boy Scouts of Potomac-based Troop 737 visited the Montgomery County Council on Dec. 14 as part of the requirement that they learn more about local government to earn a merit badge. Councilmember Craig Rice told the scouts about how laws are made—and what goes on during a Council meeting. | |
THE GRASS IS GREENER … The Maryland Soccer Foundation, which manages the 22-field Maryland SoccerPlex in Germantown - December 13, 2011
Councilmember Rice recognized The Maryland Soccer Foundation on behalf of the Montgomery County Council for having its 3,200-seat stadium field named school/park national “Field of the Year” by the Sports Turf Manager Association. The annual award is determined by a panel of experts, who rated more than 2,600 eligible fields on a series of criteria. At the ceremonies in Rockville, left to right, were SoccerPlex representatives Jerad Minnick, Ryan Bjorn and Joel Cruz; Councilmember Craig Rice, who presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council; William Godoy of the SoccerPlex; Trish Heffelinger, executive director of the Maryland Soccer Foundation; Nick Lievense and Keith Lenert of the SoccerPlex; and Charles Washington of Pepco, who serves on the board of directors of the Maryland Soccer Foundation. | |
“We want to ensure that business owners, the community at large and our youth are protected," Rice said, "and believe that stricter penalties will help people understand that this type of crime will not be tolerated."- December 12, 2011
Councilmember Rice and Commander Luther Reynolds of District 5 support District 18 Delegate Jeffrey Waldstreicher who offered a detailed look at a new bill dubbed "the Flash Mob Theft Act of 2012." | |
County Council recognized Holy Cross hospital’s achievement. Councilmember Craig Rice, right, presented a proclamation to Kenneth Sexton, the hospital’s CEO, and Judith Rodgers, the hospital’s senior vice president of operations. - November 29,2011
HOSPITAL’S SPECIAL RECOGNITION … Holy Cross Hospital in Silver Spring was recently named among the nation’s top performing hospitals in key quality measures by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of HealthCare Organizations, the premier accrediting body for health care organizations in the United States. Holy Cross is one of 405 U.S. hospitals out of a total 3,099 participating—and the only hospital in Maryland—to be recognized for earning the distinction. On Nov. 29 in Rockville, the County Council recognized the hospital’s achievement. Councilmember Craig Rice, right, presented a proclamation to Kenneth Sexton, the hospital’s CEO, and Judith Rodgers, the hospital’s senior vice president of operations. | |
Students and their teachers also participate with providing food for those in need...The County Council honors MCPS for their participation with gathering provisions for Manna Food - November 15, 2011
FOOD FOR THOSE IN NEED… The Montgomery County Council on Nov. 15 recognized the efforts of four County schools to collect food for the Manna Food Center, which since 1983 has been the primary food bank in Montgomery County. Students and administrators from Great Seneca Creek, Lakelands and Summit Hall elementary schools and Roberto Clemente Middle School came to Rockville to hear how their collections will make a difference to County families in need, particularly during the holiday season. Councilmembers Craig Rice (third from left) and Phil Andrews (third from right) presented certificates of appreciation on behalf of the Council. | |
Food for those in need...The County Council honors Manna Food and its Executive Director Kim Damion - November 15, 2011
Manna Food Center, which since 1983 has been the primary food bank in Montgomery County, was recognized by the County Council on Nov. 15 for its efforts that have to more than 36 million pounds of food being distributed to more than 2.5 million people. Councilmember Craig Rice, who presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council emphasized the cost-efficient manner in which Manna operates as 94 cents of each dollar it collects directly benefits those in need. Although Manna seeks food donations year-round, at this time of year, the organization is determined to help families have happy holiday meals. | |
Councilmember Rice Awarded for HELPING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES… - November 7, 2011
The Montgomery County Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (Inter-ACC/DD), the direct service providers association in the County, presented an award of thanks to Montgomery County Councilmember Craig Rice. The award thanked the Councilmember and former Maryland State Delegate for his leadership to help individuals served by community-supported services. The award was presented to him by Susan Ingram, the executive director of Community Support Services, Inc. | |
Town Hall meeting with the Greater Olney Civic Association (GOCA) - October 24, 2011
Councilmembers Craig Rice and Nancy Navarro held a Town Hall meeting featuring discussions on Population Demographics, Redistricting, Transportation, Olney CIP Projects: Library, School Renovations and Modernization, Planning Board Projects: First Baptist Church of Wheaton and Bowie Mill Property, the Teen Curfew and more…Councilmember Rice and boy scout Sam Hull discuss Sam’s experiences while earning his citizenship badge. | |
International Walk to School Day at Captain James E. Daly, Jr. Elementary School in Germantown - October 6, 2011
To celebrate International Walk to School Day at Captain James E. Daly, Jr. Elementary School in Germantown, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett (center) joined (from right to left) County Councilmember Hans Riemer, Councilmember Craig Rice, Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Joshua Starr and students, parents and community members on their walk to school to promote safer streets, healthier habits and cleaner air. | |
Library Snapshot Day in Montgomery County is to Focus On One Day in the Life of Public Libraries - October 5, 2011
Councilmembers Nancy Floreen and Craig Rice celebrate the Library's 2nd Annual Snapshot day with Rockville Librarians and Montgomery County School Students. Councilmember Rice read Beedebop Bird to the children with great enthusiasm! | |
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Second Annual Family Justice Benefit - October 2, 2011
Keeping Them Safe, Giving Them Hope, ...And a New Start ...Councilmember Rice attends the Second Annual Benefit for the Montgomery County Family Justice Center. |
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Leader of the Pack - September 27, 2011
LEADER OF THE PACK …Montgomery County Public Schools’ Sportsmanship Program asks officials and administrators at every County high school varsity contest to evaluate the actions and attitudes of players, coaches, game administrators and fans. On Sept. 27, the County Council honored Clarksburg High for winning the 2010-11 MCPS Sportsmanship Award as its teams in 18 sports were the highest-rated in sportsmanship among the 25 County high schools. Councilmember Craig Rice, left, presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council to Clarksburg representatives, who included Noella Anyangwe, captain of the girls track and field team (speaking). At the ceremonies were, left to right: Duke Beattie, director of athletics for MCPS; Clarksburg Principal James Koutsos; Oscar Cruz, captain of the boys soccer team; Jessica O’Brien, captain of the field hockey team; David Bloodgood of the baseball team; Athletic Director Jeff Sullivan and Assistant Athletic Director Ed Dalton. | |
Councilmember Rice's First Community Meeting in Montgomery Village (District 2) - September 26, 2011
Councilmember Rice and the Montgomery Village community discussed many of the pending matters going on in the Village. | |
Gaithersburg ... the 73rd Annual Labor Day Parade - September 5,2011
The Gaithersburg Labor Day Parade is one the City's oldest traditions! The Labor Day Parade was just good old fashion fun that marked the "unofficial" end of summer... | |
Father Hurley Boulevard Extended - August 8, 2011
With help from community members of all ages, dignitaries cut the ribbon that officially opened the 1.2-mile extension of Father Hurley Boulevard from Wisteria Dr. to MD 118 (Germantown Rd.) In addition to numerous young residents of the area, others cutting the ribbon were (from left): Susan Soderberg, community activist; County Executive Ike Leggett; Father Leonard Hurley, the road’s namesake and founder of the Mother Seton Parish in Germantown; County Councilmember Craig Rice, representing District 2; accompanied by his two daughters; and program emcee Edgar Gonzalez, deputy director for Transportation Policy in the County’s Dept. of Transportation. See News Release for more info. | |
Germantown's Miracle Field Opening Day - August 1, 2011
Ribbon-cutting and first game participates from left to right below are: Nationals broadcaster Charlie Slowes; Nationals manager Davey Johnson; Judy Lerner; Nationals coach Bo Porter; Mark Lerner; mascot Screech; Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown; County Councilmembers Phil Andrews and Craig Rice; Montgomery Recreation director Gabriel Albornoz; James Leder, Jr., who spearheaded to drive to build the field; County Executive Isiah Leggett; Nationals pitcher Jordan Zimmerman; and Mary Bradford of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Nationals pitcher Sean Burnett pitched to the first inning of batters in the opening game. | |
Germantown's Miracle Field Opening Day - August 1, 2011
Among the hundreds who attended the dedication, ribbon-cutting and first game, were, left to right: Montgomery County Councilmember Craig Rice, Nationals players Sean Burnett and Jordan Zimmerman, Maryland Lt. Governor Anthony Brown; and Nationals coach Bo Porter. | |
Talking to the Manager - August 1, 2011
Montgomery County Councilmembers Phil Andrews, left, and Craig Rice, right, were among the hundreds of people who attended the Aug. 1 dedication of Maryland’s first ‘Miracle Field,’ a specially designed field which will allow children and young adults with mental and/or physical disabilities to enjoy the opportunity to safely play baseball. At the ceremonies at the South Germantown Recreational Park, the Councilmembers had the opportunity to talk strategy with Washington Nationals manager Davey Johnson. The ‘Washington Nationals Miracle Field’ was significantly funded by the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation and the Annette and Theodore Lerner Family Foundation. | |
Meet me at the Library!- July 29, 2011
Councilmember Rice his Dad and his two girls volunteer to put together a new Fire Truck at the Germantown Library's Children's Discovery Room! | |
Councilmember Rice Tours Germantown Library - July 20, 2011
Councilmember Rice visited the Germantown, Quince Orchard and Twinbrook Libraries to witness the effects of the current budget contraints and how our libraries were still making it work for our constituents. Councilmember Rice is joined by Nancy J. Savas, Germantown Library Manager, Carol Legarreta, Public Services Administrator, Branch Operations and Vivian Yao, Montgomery County Legislative Analyst | |
Councilmember Rice Tours Quince Orchard Library - July 20, 2011
Councilmember Rice tours the Quince Orchard Library and is joined by Clotilde Puertolas, Program Specialist 1, Carol Legarreta, Public Services Administrator, Branch Operations and Ann Stillman, Library Manager. | |
Councilmember Rice Tours the Twinbrook Library - July 20, 2011
Councilmember Rice tours the Twinbrook Library and is joined by Carol Legarreta, Public Services Administrator, Branch Operations, Sue Koronowski, Library Manager and Chris Lundy, Program Specialist II | |
Councilmember Rice, on behalf of his wife and children and the County Council proclaim Judy Brubaker, Principal of Spark Matsunaga Elementary School, to be an outstanding Principal!- July 19, 2011
Mrs. Brubaker has worked more than 35 years as a teacher and an administrator, and was recently presented The Washington Post’s Distinguished Educational Leadership Award, which is presented annually, to one principal in each Washington Metropolitan Area School District, for promoting an excellent educational program and creating an exceptional educational environment. Additionally, the 2010 Distinguished Educational Leadership Award for Montgomery County was awarded to Mrs. Brubaker for her leadership skills, connection with students, and commitment to student achievement, creativity, enthusiasm and passion. Congratulations Mrs. Brubaker for doing a great job! | |
Councilmember Rice presents a Prolamation!- July 19, 2011
DISTINGUISHED PRINCIPAL … Judy Brubaker receiving her Montgomery County recognition with a Montgomery County Prolamation! | |
Congressman Chris Van Hollen visits the County Councilmembers on - July 18, 2011
The Montgomery County Council met for lunch on last Monday, July 18th with Congressman Chris Van Hollen to continue its series of informal meetings with federal and state elected officials. | |
Montgomery Village Celebrates the Nation's 235th Birthday! - July 4, 2011
Councilmember Rice and his family parcipated in the Montgomery Village Community July 4th Parade this year. The loyal Montgomery Village Community was out in full force with patriotic unity! Councilmember Rice spoke praise and adoration for our military women and men, past and present with thanksgiving. | |
Councilmember Craig Rice honored and presented Karen Garner of Germantown, Maryland, and Bob Phillips of Potomac, Maryland with congratulatory certificates for their kindness and generosity - June 29, 2011
Karen Garner recently won a catering party from California Tortilla for one hundred people. How did she do it? Bob Phillips told us that Karen wrote California Tortilla an incredibly sweet letter asking for a catered party not for herself, but for the Stepping Stones Homeless Shelter. Karen wanted to win it Phillips said "so that people less fortunate can reap the benefits of something nice. From left to right in the picture, Councilmember Craig Rice, Bob Phillips, President and CEO of California Tortilla, Karen Garner, Awardee and Denise Fredericks, Executive Director of Stepping Stones Shelter. | |
Clarksburg Town Hall Meeting - June 27, 2011
Councilmember Rice was highly honored, praised and acknowledged along with fellow Councilmember’s, for their outstanding leadership roles in preserving funds in our FY12 Operating Budget for six School Resource Officers (SROs) in our public high schools, despite the severe economic crisis throughout the County. The next day after the Town Hall meeting, June 28th, the County Council unanimously approved a limited amendment to the Clarksburg Master Plan that could lead to the establishment of a grocery store in the emerging community in the northern part of the County. | |
Dr. Stearns receives a proclamation - June 17, 2011
On June 21, Dr. Stearns’s achievements were recognized by the Montgomery County Council. Councilmember Craig Rice, left, presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council to Dr. Stearns for her efforts in raising money for scholarships and her commitment to academic excellence. | |
People For the American Way Foundation’s Young Elected Officials Network at the White House - June 17, 2011
Councilmember Rice met with Senior Advisors to President Obama to discuss education, energy and economic policy. Later that evening, the President addressed the group at a reception in the White House. | |
Darnestown Community Discussion - June 16, 2011
The Darnestown Community discussion was primarily focused on PEPCO | |
15th Annual Montgomery County Juneteenth Celebration - June 16, 2011
Councilmember George Leventhal and I attended the 15th Annual Montgomery County Juneteenth Celebration. The jubilation celebration was presented by Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett and the Office of Community Partnerships, at the BlackRock Center for the Arts, Germantown Cultural Arts Center. The entire program was outstanding and a huge success. Connie Robinson, in the above picture, is seen presenting an Underground Railroad reenactment. | |
Town Hall Meeting with the Greater Olney Civic Association - June 14, 2011
Councilmembers Nancy Navarro and Craig Rice talked to the citizens of Olney about the FY12 Budget and other community issues. | |
The Northwest High School girls outdoor track and field team awarded by the County Council - June 14, 2011
SPEED OF THE JAGUARS … The Northwest High School girls outdoor track and field team, which in May became the first Montgomery County team in the 36-year history of the Maryland Girls Outdoor Track and Field championships to win a state title, was honored by the Montgomery County Council on June 14. The Germantown school won all four relays in the state meet, senior Olivia Ekpone won individual state titles at 100, 200 and 400 meters and senior Britt Eckerstrom won the 800 meters. Northwest Principal Lance Dempsey, center, accepted a proclamation recognizing the team’s achievements from Councilmembers Phil Andrews, left, and Craig Rice. | |
Greater Goshen Civic Association Meeting, June 13, 2011
"Smart solutions require a myriad of options.” Many suggestions for solutions were suggested by members of the Greater Goshen Civic Association last night as 55 residents met to discuss some of the major infrastructure issues that surround the area. | |
Councilmember Rice attends Strathmore's Spring Gala, April 16, 2011
Eliot Pfanstiehl, Monica Jeffries Hazangeles, Tia Rice and Councilmember Craig Rice. | |
Rockville Memorial Day Parade, May 30, 2011
Rockville Hometown Holidays Celebration | |
Groundbreaking Ceremony for Montgomery County Judicial Center Annex, Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Among other amenities, the new Judicial Center Annex will have ten New Courtrooms and Chambers. | |
Olney Days-Sunday Parade, May 22, 2011
What a perfect day for a parade and for celebrating unity in the Olney community! | |
Olney, Maryland...Fair Hill Redevelopment Ribbon Cutting Ceremony - April 27, 2011
Carl M. Freeman Companies marks a milestone and celebrates the completion of the redevelopment efforts of Fair Hill with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, April 27th in Olney, Maryland. Featured in back row from left to right: Matt Zaborsky, Greater Olney Civic Association; Craig Rice; Council Member, Montgomery County Council; Mike Reilly, Chief Operating Officer, Carl M. Freeman Companies; Isiah Leggett, County Executive, Montgomery County; Michelle Freeman, Chair of the Board & President, Carl M. Freeman Companies; Chris Garland, Vice President of Retail Development & Construction, Carl M. Freeman Companies; Jack Ladson, and Virginia Mauk, Olney Chamber of Commerce. Front Row from left to right: Carl M. Freeman Companies representatives including: John Wilmoth, Richard Lipsky, Mary Scott, Valle Bonhag, and Dave Levitsky. Photo provided by Dave Burgevin. See Fair Hill website for more info. | |
Take Our Daughters And Sons To Work - April 28, 2011
By bringing girls and boys together, we will continue to create a more equitable world—at home, at school, in the workplace, and in the community. This year we are celebrating the opportunities that girls and boys will discover and the opportunities for parents, mentors, and the community to continue involvement in this unique educational experience | |
GAITHERSBURG GIRLS BASKETBALL TEAM UNBEATEN - April 26, 2011
GAITHERSBURG GIRLS UNBEATEN … The Gaithersburg High School girls basketball team, which finished 25-0, was the only unbeaten girls high school basketball team in the Washington metropolitan area and went on to win the Maryland 4A state championship, was honored by the Montgomery County Council on April 26. In becoming only the third Montgomery County team to capture the Class 4A state championship in the past 24 years, the Trojans defeated opponents by an average margin of 28 points. Councilmembers Phil Andrews and Craig Rice presented a proclamation on behalf of the Council to Gaithersburg Coach Adrian McDaniel and his players. Gaithersburg Mayor Sidney Katz, left, helped the team celebrate its No. 1 status. | |
Council approves Councilmember Rice's appointment by the County Executive - April 5, 2011
The Council approved my appointment by the County Executive to serve on the Montgomery County Board of Social Services. The Board advises the Department of Health and Human Services, the County Executive and County Council, as well as the Social Services Officer on the local application of state policies and procedures, receives briefings on local department activities, and communicates to the residents broad and comprehensive information as to the objectives, policies, programs and problems of local social services and public assistance administration in the County. I am truly honored to represent the council in this role. | |
BLAIR BOWLS THEM OVER - March 8, 2011
The Montgomery County Council on March 8 honored the Blair High School Science Bowl team that recently won the Maryland Science Bowl math and science competition for a third straight year and earned an invitation to the national bowl this spring. At the ceremonies in Rockville, Peter Ostrander, the coordinator of Blair’s Science, Mathematics and Computer Science magnet program, talked about the hard work and effort put in by the team members. At the ceremonies were, left to right: Councilmembers Craig Rice and Valerie Ervin; Blair Science Bowl Coach Tran Pham; and team members Andrew Das Sarma, Alexander Briese, Sandra Yan, Samuel Zbarsky and Diwakaran Ilangovan. | |
Closed Caption for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing - February 29, 2011
Councilmember Rice was recognized by the Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing at its Legislative Awareness Day ceremonies. As a delegate, he sponsored legislation that requires a place of public accommodation—on request—to keep closed captioning activated on a closed-captioning television receiver that is in use during regular hours in a public area. The legislation also included specified exceptions to the requirement. | |
RECOGNIZING BLACK HISTORY - February 15, 2011
The Montgomery County Council held ceremonies in Rockville on Feb. 15 recognizing February as Black History Month. Several generations from families representing the Lincoln Park Historical Foundation were among those attending, including long-time Rockville resident Elaine Hebron (holding proclamation). County Council President Valerie Ervin (fourth from right) and Councilmember Craig Rice (sixth from left) presented the proclamation on behalf of the Council. | |
Councilmember Rice’s first Clarksburg town hall meeting a huge success - January, 24, 2011
All agree that top priorities in Clarksburg are a grocery store, retail, and water and sewage to the historic district...Also of importance, traffic patterns on Stringtown Road. | |
AG RESERVE's Sustainable Community Food System - December 20, 2010
AG RESERVE's Sustainable Community Food System....a conversation with Councilmember Rice continuing to build bridges between community residents and our County government. | |
NEW COUNCILMEMBERS – December 6, 2010
NEW COUNCILMEMBERS...District 2 Councilmember Craig Rice ( top row, fourth from left), and At-Large Councilmember Hans Riemer (top row, second from left) were sworn in as members of the 17th County Council on December 6, 2010. | | |
