What is going on (in the development world) in Silver Spring?

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NOTE: THOUGH THE ABOVE SAYS "SEPTEMBER 2011", THIS BLOG POSTING WAS LAST UPDATED AUGUST 2014!

So, you want to know: What IS going on (in the development world) in Silver Spring? What are all those real estate developments deals and great projects that are coming out of the ground? What has happened recently? What is the history? Where are we headed?

Well, obviously there is no simple answer and no single place that has all this wonderful information. Often time when we try to produce such “lists of lists” they become outdated before they are released and/or the staff capacity is simply not there to maintain it all up-to-date.

Given all these caveats, here is an imperfect, incomplete, and probably not fully accurate snapshot of “What is going on (in the development world) in Silver Spring."

WHAT'S BEING BUILT RECENTLY

First things first: What you see ‘coming off the ground’ in the downtown area is probably one of the following 1000+ residential units that have recently being completed:

[] Behind the Civic Building: 222 multi-family units.  This project is actually part of the overall downtown Silver Spring development.

[] Down by Montgomery College: (the old Dry Cleaning Institute building): 210 multi-family units now open. Built behind the historic structure, which is incorporated into the development.)

[] South Silver Spring (Kennett Street): Commonly known as The Galaxy, this is a 241 unit multi-family development recently opened.

[] Ripley Street Washington Property’s project, 286 multi-family units, recently opened as well... Home Properties project across the street is well on its way.

[] 8706 Georgia Avenue: One of two office developments that has been turned into housing, this 240 unit apartment complex will within easy walking distance of the Fillmore and AFI - soon to be opened.


PIPELINE
Projects in different stages of development review could bring an additional 2000 units. Some of these include:

[] EYA/Chelsea School: At Pershing at Ellsworth. It will include 72 townhouses, plus the preservation of the historic structure.

[] Fenton Baptist Church: This project will rebuild the church and will have street level storefront, along with 200+ multi-family units.

[] Silver Spring Library Residential Site: Fronting on Bonifant, this project will have 120 multi-family units and residential on the ground floor.

[] The Falklands Chase Redevelopment: This major redevelopment in the northwest side of downtown is slated to eventually include over 1,000 units and more than 60,000 sq. ft. of retail.

[] Studio Plaza:  In the heart of "Fenton Village", this 476 unit development will have a major public plaza and some retail.

[] The Blairs:  The complete 'redo' of the existing Blairs shopping center and adjacent residential developments will be a major new 'destination point' in downtown Silver Spring.

If you want to see some of the above projects in a graphic representation, you can review a presentation given by Park & Planning about a year ago – but still very relevant:
http://issuu.com/silverspringregionalcenter/docs/silver_spring_cbd_projects_under_development

Given what has been built recently – particularly over by East/West Highway, it is safe to say that from the middle of the last decade through the middle or end of this one, Silver Spring would have added in the proximity of 5,000 residential units throughout the downtown area.

Other than residential, there is not much going on beyond what the County is building - and of course United Therapeutic's "Phase 3" development. You can see the County's projects at:
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/DGS/DBDC/RegionalProjectPages/silverspring.asp

If you are a techie and want to play with some relatively up-to-date database, try Park and Planning’s two sites:
http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/development/finder.shtm
http://www.mcatlas.org/Atlas/


NOTE: On January 8, 2013, the Planning Department did a session outlining all developments in downtown Silver Spring that are under construction and/or in the planning process... See the PowerPoint presentation HERE... You may also want to view another presentation we did which places these developments "in context"... You can find that presentation HERE. 

CONTEXT [plans and such]

Now, step back a minute… If you want to put all of this in context, you’ll want to get review some framing documents. Your first stop to understand the context of what is going on should be a fuller understanding ‘how a building gets built’ in our County… Check out “A Resident’s Guide to Land Use Master Plan Process in Montgomery County”:
http://www.montgomeryplanningboard.org/info/resident_guides/documents/landuse_masterplan_02_2007.pdf

After that, you’ll be better ready to understand the Silver Spring plans in particular by reviewing the Silver Spring CBD (Central Business District) Sector Plan, found at:
http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/plan_areas/silver_spring_takoma_park/master_plans/sscbd/sscbd_toc.shtm

Next you’ll be ready to step back a bit again, and see how this Plan fits into other plans and other planning issues. There is a July 2011 update to all this information, readily found at:
http://www.montgomeryplanning.org/community/silverspring/index.shtm

For a synopsis of all these plans, see more of the presentation made by Park & Planning a year ago:
http://issuu.com/silverspringregionalcenter/docs/silver_spring_master_plans__compatibility_mode_

To get a picture of what is her today, nothing provides a better overview than our own web-site:
http://www.silverspringdowntown.com/


A HISTORY LESSON

Wikipedia actually does a decent job providing some history for us:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver_Spring,_Maryland

The Chamber’s web-site also has a brief history and context:
http://www.silverspringchamber.com/silverspring/about_silver_spring/index.html

So does some of the local neighborhood historians:
http://users.starpower.net/oshel/H02.htm

And, of course, the Historical Society has a wealth of info:
http://silverspringhistory.homestead.com/

Our own historian, Jerry McCoy recently released a book titled “Then and Now: Downtown Silver Spring”… He also wrote a history of book of the broader Silver Spring area:
http://silverspringthenagain.blogspot.com/

Gus Bauman, a past Commission Chair did a wonderful timeline that we posted on our blog not too long ago:
http://silverspringspeaks.blogspot.com/2011/06/short-history-of-developemnt-in.html


FOR MORE INFORMATION


If your interest is in knowing what others think about all of this, you may want to visit some of the area blogs, web-sites, FaceBook pages, etc… A handy dandy ‘list of lists’ can be find in our blog posting:
http://silverspringspeaks.blogspot.com/2011/04/silver-spring-list-of-lists-web-sites.html


While there’s been many articles written about the growth in Silver Spring, this one seems to be one of the best:
http://dc.urbanturf.com/articles/blog/downtown_silver_spring_experiencing_a_resurgence_after_a_bumpy_history/2281
(Plus it extensively quotes one of our Citizens Advisory Board members, Evan Glass.)

As if all of the above is not enough, you could also have some fun Googling “Silver Spring redevelopment” not only on the web, but in ‘pictures’ and ‘YouTube’… And – this is quite something if you’ve never tried it – go to ‘more’ in the Google bar; scroll down to ‘even more’; then find the link to ‘scholar’. There you will find amazing historical works ranging from the useful to the useless. (For example, there’s a University of Maryland thesis back from 2005 title “Imagined Pasts, Imagined Futures: Race, Politics, Memory, and the Revitalization of Downtown Silver Spring”.)

All of this will lead you to more information than you probably need – but, you’ll have loads of fun in the investigative journey!

NOTE: I ENCOURAGE YOU TO LEAVE ANY ADDITIONS/CORRECTION TO THE ABOVE AS A COMMENT ON THIS BLOG... And, please consider 'following' this blog so you can get future postings automatically.

Deliberate Democracy Consortium Latest Links

Those that read this blog regularly know that I occasionally (re) post edited versions of what I get from Deliberative Democracy Consortium. While these posting are certainly not for everyone – and can be a bit academic – some folks have shared with me that they appreciate getting them… So, here’s DDC’s most recent (edited) list of worthy news in the field:

[1] You can find DDC on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/deliberative.democracy

[2] President Obama made a major speech last week describing the US commitments to public participation and transparency as part of the Open Government Partnership - the speech can be viewed at http://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/2011/09/20/president-obama-open-government-partnership-event

[3] New Oxford Handbook on Civil Society has contributions from Peter Levine, John Gaventa, Harry Boyte, Mark Warren, Theda Skocpol, Nina Eliasoph, and many others - http://www.oup.com/us/catalog/general/subject/Politics/?view=usa&ci=9780195398571#Description

[4] Participatory Budgeting Launches in NYC: Councilmembers and Community Allies (in NYC) Announce Groundbreaking, Democratic Budgeting Initiative – join their Google group at http://groups.google.com/group/participatory-budgeting-us/browse_thread/thread/df2ac96770f8a4ea

[5] The Alberta Climate Dialogue (ABCD) has been working with the City of Edmonton on an innovative public involvement project on sustainability - http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=gkuc9afab&v=001b3MRj4D6bdp9v51J1dVL3YR1JoFsBvLntE9GM8niS4k8DPWqXYNhkk1-M0UzqRHa5La1dP5kxm1UrMMP-dxrQkMBrtuWPAfQhPHaL2qDLrYTzafwM-jZOQ%3D%3D

[6] 'Citizenship and Governance in a Wild Wired World' summarizes the current state of participatory practice at the local level, makes the argument that we need to be thinking about engagement infrastructure, not just temporary tools - http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ncr.20056/abstract

[7] Jim Snider makes some excellent suggestions for how communities can support 'blended meetings' that include online and face-to-face elements - http://www.brookings.edu/papers/2011/07_public_community_media_snider.aspx

[8] Meaningful participation vs. all-night public hearing: Toronto MP Carolyn Bennett eloquently describes the differences http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/hon-carolyn-bennett/rob-ford_b_919138.html

[9] Bill Barnes at the National League of Cities explores how cities are dealing with challenges of immigrant integration - http://www.nlc.org/news-center/nations-cities-weekly/articles/2011/september/emerging-issues-hyphens-and-documents-hopes-and-fears

[10] New report shows that civic engagement is a stronger factor in reducing unemployment than many traditional economic variables - http://www.huffingtonpost.com/peter-levine/could-civic-engagement-be_b_966176.html?ref=tw

[11] Comments, reflections and results from "Frontiers of Democracy" conference now up at http://activecitizen.tufts.edu/?pid=715. Includes poll on top insights, link to conference video, and other resources

[12] In the latest LogoLink newsletter, discussion about the line between false participation and sharing power meaningfully with citizens. http://www.logolink.org/newsletter/index.php?id=6

[13] Common Ground News Service looking to expand their roster of authors who can write on race relations in the US - see www.cgnews.org - small honorarium available for each piece.

[14] The most complete look yet at whether/how the Obama Administration is boosting participation through Open Government: http://www.businessofgovernment.org/report/assessing-public-participation-open-government-era

[15] Philadelphia city councilwoman on why public engagement isn't just a 'feel-good' exercise: http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/our-money/Why-public-engagement-is-more-than-a-feel-good-gesture.html

[16] Rude Democracy: Civility and Incivility in American Politics - by Susan Herbst, new pres of UConn www.pbk.org/home/FocusNews.aspx?id=685

[17] Portsmouth Listens will receive the 2011 Sarah Farmer Peace Award. http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20110817-NEWS-108170362

…hope you enjoy these!... And, don’t forget: If you have not done so already, please follow this blog (by clicking on the icon on the upper left, above the pictures) so you will get postings automatically…

SILVER SPRING REGIONAL CENTER SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

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Our community has infinite human capital. We are blessed with so many people that do so much good!

While there are countless excellent opportunities for fulfilling volunteerism right here in our midst – and throughout the world - we are convinced that there remain many people “still searching” for that “just right” opportunity.

Maybe the Silver Spring Regional Center is that place for you! We are seeking volunteers to help us in specific task oriented assignments. These include:
[1] Google Map Creator
[2] Community Meeting Docent
[3] Development Tracker
[4] Communications Team Member

Below is more information for each of these opportunities.

Interested? Send me an e-mail with the subject line “Volunteer”.

Thanks!

Reemberto Rodriguez, Director
Silver Spring Regional Center
Reemberto.Rodriguez@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov

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[1] Silver Spring Regional Center Google Maps Creator

The Silver Spring Regional Center has created a series of Google Maps for specific purposes. Some of these include Ethiopian storefront establishments in downtown Silver Spring; car repair shops in Fenton Village; faith communities in Silver Spring. We want to grow these map series to include a variety of others, including but not being limited to. Silver Spring Regional Center area:
 Community serving non-profits;
 Youth serving institutions;
 Civic organizations (with full contact information);
 Tenant organizations;
 Senior complexes;
 Citizenship classes;
 Galleries;
 Performing spaces;
 Others

These maps will be used to augment and expand the information provided in our web-site http://www.silverspringdowntown.com/ We are looking for highly computer literate* volunteer(s) to do the research and create these map series. The tasks and duties include, but are not limited to:
 Researching what is readily available;
 Creating spreadsheets;
 Confirming accuracy of information;
 Creating the Google map, including pictures
 Other related duties as might be necessary.

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[2] Silver Spring Regional Center Community Meetings Docent

The Silver Spring Regional Center holds regularly meetings with its three advisory groups and committees. These include:
 The Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board (2nd Monday, 7pm Civic Building)
 Advisory Board Three Committees Simultaneous Meetings (4th Monday, 7pm Civic Building)
 The Silver Spring Arts & Entertainment Advisory Committee (1st Tuesday, Civic Building)
 The Silver Spring Urban District Advisory Committee (3rd Thursday, 3pm Fire Station)

We are looking for highly computer literate* volunteer(s) to be “Meeting Docent”. The tasks and duties include, but are not limited to:
 Helping set up the room and a.v. if needed;
 Preparing and copying the sign-in sheet and other materials;
 ‘Staffing’ the information table and ensuring all participants sign in;
 Collecting all material after the meeting;
 Transcribing the names and e-mails of participants into a spreadsheet;
 Reconciling repeat names from master spreadsheet;
 Working with staff responsible for contacts list to ensure any new names are represented in the contacts database;
 Other related duties as might be necessary.


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[3] Silver Spring Regional Center Development Tracker

The Silver Spring Regional Center area is beaming with development. While there exists certain databases of what is approved, there is no single map linked to a database that is comprehensive – and includes current status – of all the public and private sector projects in the area. Such a map would be invaluable for public dialogue. This type of information would help tremendously to put issues of growth in context – and increase transparency.

We are looking for highly computer literate* volunteer(s) to be a “Development Tracker”. The tasks and duties include, but are not limited to:
 Identifying on-line resources that may have some of the information;
 Riding around, taking pictures, verifying, and documenting the signs identifying development;
 Researching current status of each development;
 Creating database of developer contact information, public hearing dates; etc.
 Other related duties as might be necessary.


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[4] Silver Spring Regional Center Communications Team Member

The Silver Spring Regional Center has a series of communications tools that require consistent and regular attention. Among these are web-sites, e-blasts, a blog, FaceBook page, calendar, contact lists, and meeting notices. We are looking for a team of highly computer literate* volunteers to work with these tools and do specific tasks am duties such as, but not limited to:
 Web-Sites: Review for accuracy and timelines of information; and working links
 e-blasts: Format information received from various sources so it can be e-blasted to all contacts
 blog: Draft postings; recruit and work with ‘guest’ bloggers
 FaceBook page: post pertinent information; monitor for messages
 Calendar: Maintain internal calendar of pertinent community meetings, gatherings, dialogues, celebrations, festivals, and other community engagement activities
 Contact Lists: Maintain internal contact lists current and updated
 Meeting Notices: Ensure meeting notices are drafted and released in a timely manner

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For related past postings on the topic of ‘volunteerism’ on this blog, visit:
http://silverspringspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/how-to-maximize-volunteer-assets.html

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Interested? Send me an e-mail with the subject line “Volunteer”.

Reemberto Rodriguez, Director
Silver Spring Regional Center
Reemberto.Rodriguez@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov

SSRC: Issues, Projects, Activities , and Other News

SILVER SPRING REGIONAL CENTER
Issues, Projects, Activities , and Other News
Report for August 2011 Reemberto Rodríguez, Director

Curfew: This issue is certainly prevalent in many community dialogues, civic meetings, and general conversations. The SSCAB’s Neighborhood and Commercial & Economic Development Committees held a joint session on the curfew in mid-August. The session was extremely well attended, and representatives from the Council and the Executive were present. The SSCAB, with special guest Council President Ervin, will take up the issue at their Board Meeting on September 12th.

Noise Bill: As the bill evolves, there seems to be a growing consensus in Silver Spring that public and private opportunities to activate the area by providing and sponsoring concerts and other performances is something that should continue. Many have expressed the opinion that any limitation on these activities may hinder the economic vitality of the area.

Fenton Street Market: At the end of this calendar year we will have finished the pilot project whereas the Regional Center sponsored the Fenton Street Market on Veterans Plaza. As we move to institutionalize the success of this type of activity on the Plaza, we are proceeding with the development of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a craft market that would occur on a regular basis.

Thanksgiving Parade: The Recreation Department will be holding a community meeting on how to continue improving the Parade. There’s already been a series of meeting with the various Advisory Groups and/or their committees to explain why the route changed and other logistical matters. This broader meeting will emphasize the many opportunities for continued engagement by area residents and businesses in the Parade and how it can maximize its positive impacts.

Fillmore: Opening date is set for September 15th. The community is invited to get a preview of the space on Monday, September 12th. All advisory group members and civic leaders have been invited. Many inquires continue coming in about the Fillmore, but the exhaustive FAQ web-site that the County has prepared has successfully answered most of the inquires. There’s been extensive internal tactical strategy sessions to ensure a successful opening and continued operations.

Civic Building and Veterans Plaza Operations: We are successfully working closely with the new Facility Operations Manager of the facility (Jewru Bandeh.) There’s been substantial improvements in all areas of operations, with new protocols put in place. For example, now the building closes to the public at 6 p.m. during week days (Rented functions still take place beyond that.) Also, a new set of Plaza Rules will be unveiled soon.

Silver Spring Green: This community initiative has really taken off, due in large part to the leadership offered by the DEP staff (Doug Weinberg) who has successfully steward the process. We continue being part of this effort and are helping it grow as it becomes an exemplary non-profit organization.

Silver Spring Senior Village: This volunteer driven initiative to establish a “senior village” close to downtown Silver Spring is getting lots of traction. (This is modeled after a very successful model established in Bethesda whereas senior come together to help each other and collaborate to ‘age in place’ – or ‘age in our neighborhood’.) We are part of the effort to get this going. On-going meetings at Springvale Terrace are taking place regularly.

National Night Out: August 2nd was National Night Out. Our Police did a great job in being part of this annual event. The Regional Center visited various sites and the day was clearly a huge success.

September Festivals (and other upcoming activities): There are 7 festivals in the Silver Spring Regional Center area in September, beginning of course with our own Jazz Festival. We are working with our internal and external partners to ensure these events not only happen without a hitch, but offer an opportunity for successful community engagement…. Coming in October: Community Services Week; Opening of Ice Rink…. Coming in November: Veterans Day Unveiling of Veterans Plaza Art Piece; and, Thanksgiving Parade.

Plaza Ambiance Performances: Thanks to the volunteer effort of Silver Spring Town Center, Inc., there were over 30 free ‘ambiance’ performances on the Plaza during the Spring and Summer. All these performers performed free of charge and provided a wonderful environment to enliven our Plaza and offer the opportunity for community members to come together and enjoy all that downtown has to offer.

Red Shirts Get New Chief!: Victor Salazar, long time staff with Weed & Seed and active community member (Four Corners) is now the manager of our Urban District’s “Red Shirt” (Clean & Safe) Team. The number of ‘feet on the streets’ in downtown is increasingly tremendously. It is these folks that keep the area clean and serve as ‘good will ambassadors’… When you see them around, please say a simple ‘thank you!’

Trip to El Salvador: In July I was fortunate to go to El Salvador with others from the County, including the County Executive and Councilmember Leventhal. This personal trip was highly successful. Subsequent post-visit gatherings are probing to be very useful for our work, particularly in
Silver Spring Senior Village: Our efforts to support the volunteers starting the Silver Spring Senior Village continue. We have helped them make connections with other people and resources that have expedited their capacity to become operational in the near future.

Advisory Groups Activities/Issues:

Citizens Advisory Board: In August the board held is CIP Forum. The September meeting will be focusing on the Curfew. They will also hold a retreat in September, and soon welcome three new members. Continuing the practice of focusing on different neighborhoods, October will be devoted to Takoma Park. (The Mayor will visit with the Board in November.)
Starting MONDAY SEPTEMBER 26, the SSCAB’s three committees will all meet at the same time (7-9pm) in the Civic Building every 4th Monday of the month.

Urban District Advisory Committee: They will begin meeting at the Urban District offices (the Fire Station) again. This month they will review the development proposal for the current site of the Silver Spring Post Office. (The Post Office is moving.)

Arts & Entertainment Advisory Committee: The Arts & Entertainment District (re)Designation Application is due October 1st. The Committee is serving as a solid sounding board for the narrative of the application. Also, new members have been asked to rejoin and the Committee has expanded to include representation from the Fillmore, Round House, Arts & Humanities Council, and Peterson Co. (Downtown Silver Spring.)

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September is FESTIVAL TIME in the SSRC Area!

With summer coming to an end, the earth no longer shaking, the lights (mostly) back on, the mud drying out, the heavy rains moving on, and the high winds but a fading memory, it is time to turn the calendar to September. Cooler weather, dryer air, and FESTIVALS galore!

Seven festivals are scheduled in the Silver Spring Regional Center Area within three weekends in September. (Believe it or not none on Labor Day weekend... That weekend is relatively quiet; a nice time to enjoy strolling on Sligo Creek or the variety of culinary experiences in Long Branch and Langley Park.) And, don’t forget: In mid September the Fillmore Silver Spring opens with an amazing lineup for the first week alone: Mary J. Blige, a Bruce Springsteen tribute band, John Legend, Guerilla Union, and Blondie. Wow.

The festivals begin with the amazing Silver Spring’s own Jazz Festival sponsored by Montgomery County on Saturday September 10th. This year, even the headliner is a true local talent: Marcus Johnson. This iconic Festival has become a staple event, bringing thousands of people to our downtown area. The Silver Spring Civic Building offers a beautiful backdrop to the energy felt throughout Veterans Plaza and surrounding streets during the Festival. This year the Festival ends at 9pm, leaving ample time to go dine at one of more than 30 restaurants – many independently and locally owned - within an easy walking distance that are open late for your post-festival enjoyment. These include restaurants in our own (and growing) ‘restaurant row’ on Georgia Avenue; down the street on Sligo and even on East West Highway; on Colesville, Ramsey, Bonifant, and of course on Ellsworth as well.

On Sunday, September 11th, either before or after you have your moment of remembrance, stop by the traditional Takoma Park Folk Festival.. It is a must! This year the promo card audaciously references “Woodstock”!  For those of us that live within walking distance of the venue - Takoma Park Middle School (on Piney Branch) - attending this Festival has become an annual ritual. The Festival is 100% Takoma Park, very different than any other festival you might have experienced.

From Septembre 14-18, the Sonic Circuits Festival returns with its annual exploration of experimental music and sound, film and dance performances. Most of the events in Silver Spring will take place at Pyramid Atlantic. They will also provide a sample of their sounds on Veterans Plaza as ambiance performances for the folks strolling through downtown at that time.

The same weekend, Saturday September 17th also brings the NEW South Silver Spring Street Festival to town. This Festival originally started as a block party years back by area residents. It has now grown in quality and stature, bringing folks from throughout the broader community and beyond to South Silver Spring. With its own beer garden, festivities, and ‘neighborhood’ feel, this Street Festival promises to become an instant tradition. It takes place on Kennett Street (over by Acorn Park, home of the original Silver Spring!) There’s plenty of parking all around; good people; good food; and good fun.

On that same date (Saturday, September 17th) and the following day (Sunday, September 18th) the Maryland Fine Arts Festival comes to Downtown Silver Spring on Ellsworth Drive. The words “fine arts” are intentional in the name of this festival. Artisans from all throughout Maryland come to show and sell their ‘high end’ wares. The Festival highlights the incredible talent in our State. It is quite a testament to the success of Silver Spring that this festival has chosen this local venue.

The last Saturday in September (the 24th) brings not one, but two festivals to downtown. Highlighting our area’s amazing cultural and ethnic diversity there will be not one, but two festivals: An African Festival and a Latino Festival:

- The 2nd Annual Pan African Cultural Festival will take place on Veterans Plaza on Saturday, September 24. The Festival is organized by the ACCDF (All Cameroonian Cultural and Development Foundation, Inc.) in collaboration with the African Affairs Advisory group of Montgomery County. It is part of a series of events commemorating September as African Heritage Month in Montgomery County.

- Mid September through mid October is also recognized as Hispanic Heritage Month. Thus, on Saturday, September 24th, there will also be a Latino Fiesta in Downtown Silver Spring, taking place on Ellsworth Drive (by the fountain.) This first-time festival will be highlighting Latino culture with its music, food, and fun for the whole familia.

And if all these ‘festivals’ were not enough, the American Film Institute will be running its annual Latin Film Festival starting September 22 (running through October 12.) This is truly a fantastic opportunity to ‘visit through film’ Spanish speaking lands near and far - including Spain! (The lineup will be announced early September.)

Why all these festivals? Clearly because Silver Spring is the place to be!

As we partake of these wonderful enlivening opportunities, we do so as community, neighbors, and part of the larger family that is Silver Spring. While the events are certainly loads of fun in and of themselves, they also offer a magnificent opportunity to meet new folks, reconnect with neighbors, and engage in conversations that can lead to the strong relationships necessary to build community. It is at these festivals where we may just find that next civic leader, young entrepreneur, or new business person willing to invest in our area.

It is through these seemingly ‘happenstance’ situations that we bump into each other and create opportunity to intentionally spark bigger things; start that conversation; invite someone to that meeting and community dialogue; and who knows where it might lead?!?

Oftentimes the leaders, organizers, vendors, performers and enthusiastic participants of some of these festivals do not necessarily participate in – and oftentimes do not even know about - our traditional civic infrastructure (i.e. board, committees and commissions; civic associations; etc.) More often than not these folks have their own ‘non-traditional’ civic infrastructure, working within circles and cultures that function totally separate – and oftentimes quite independent – from our ‘world’. Yet we share the same issues, the same roads, the same libraries, and the same public realm. It is these very same folks that we want to have sitting at the table when we discuss what is relevant to our community at our boards, committees, commissions, and civic associations. Somehow we have to make our process inviting and welcoming to them so they feel comfortable joining us in our civic journey…

Be brave; be bold; enjoy the festivals – and bring someone you meet at these festivals to the next community engagement opportunity so we can share the stories and continue – together - building a vibrant, stronger, Silver Spring. (We could start by inviting them to the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board Meeting Monday September 12th and/or the joint Committee meeting of the Board that will take place on Monday, September 26th … More on these to follow…)

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Auto Repair Shops in Fenton Village - and more! (A Summer Intern Project)

This summer, we were fortunate at the Silver Spring Regional Center to have with us two interns thanks to the folks at Jesus House, a faith community located in Fenton Village. While the Regional Center is still under transition to a new structure, we continue connecting to community and addressing the many critical issues facing us. These interns were instrumental in helping us keep moving forward while we retool. The interns, named Damilola Odabona and Fikayo Durosimi-etti, have moved on to their studies in England. (They were visiting here for the summer.) But, their wonderful contribution to Silver Spring will stay with us for a long time.

The work they did focused on how we wade through the clutter and highlight some of the unique assets in Silver Spring. For example, they created simple a Google map that highlights the auto repair shops in the Regional Center area. While the project is very much "a work in progress"* and not yet complete, it is fascinating to view the draft they produced, found HERE.

*You are encouraged to help us complete this project by sharing with us the establishments we missed or who might not be there anymore – please simply leave a posting on the map itself and/or on this blog.

It is truly amazing to see the diversity of these establishments, many of which have been around for years. For example, we are all familiar with their heavy concentration on Sligo Avenue and vicinity (south side of Fenton Village.). These businesses provide for a tangible economic activity and viable service for the community and beyond. They are within easy walking distance of the Metro, Montgomery College, downtown Silver Spring, and thousands of residents both in the high rise units on East/West highway as well as the single family residential neighborhood to the east. Yet, perceptually they are "hidden" and do not always reap the benefit of their excellent location... Maybe this map can serve to enhance their visibility in the community and help market their services to others.

So next time you need your car repaired, think "my neighborhood mechanic" before heading out miles away to the other far away places. Also, when you do stop by, talk to the owner and mechanic (they may be the same person!). I guarantee you'll hear a fascinating story you'll long remember. (For example, I found out my mechanic - with whom I share the same last name - is from Columbia and has been at the same location for over 30 years.)

The interns also started a couple of other interactive maps which are similarly useful. One is for the various Ethiopian storefront establishments in the downtown area and another highlights the many faith communities throughout the Silver Spring Regional Center area. These maps are imperfect and incomplete – but with your help we can make them more accurate and thus more useful. Please help us by checking them out and leaving corrections and/or additions on the Google map itself and/or as postings to this blog.

El Salvador: An Experience of Gifts, Doctors, and Mother Teresas

One week in one place an expert does not make you. That is how long I spent in El Salvador July 25-29, 2011 as part of the delegation from Montgomery County. MD. I was there with a group of residents and dignitaries that signed a “Sister Cities Agreement” with Morazán (one of the poorest areas in El Salvador.) (NO County funds were used for any portion of the trip!) Only a brief week there, so I am certainly no expert. Yet there were certain experiences that were truly magnificent and made me feel much closer to the people of El Salvador.

Obviously, first and foremost is the pride of having being there with fellow folks from Montgomery County government and community members in what was an emotional, impactful, and meaningful trip. There’s also the new-found appreciation for the Salvadorian people, particularly those from Morazán, where many of our Silver Spring Salvadorians come from.

The experience will remain with me forever, mostly in the faces and spirit of the people I met… And, what people I did meet! Some of the people I met are ‘people in power’; most were regular folks – proud folks – that shared beautiful stories with us.

I could talk about the details of the trip, get into the philosophical, or discuss where we are going with this adventure… Others are much more capable to do this than I… I would simply like to share three simple stories that hopefully capture the spirit of the people of Morazán.

THE GIFT

I did not know I was staying with a host family until I got to El Salvador. I was to stay at a hotel. Frankly, I was thrilled to learn that I would be staying with a family instead… This would make the experience more ‘authentic’.

When we arrived at the host family’s house, I was somewhat surprised to find a very comfortable home. I had my own bedroom and access to a full bath. Very comfortable indeed!

The owners of the house were a young couple with two beautiful children. They owned a small farm and operated two convenience stores. They made sure we saw their pictures of when they visited New York and Niagara Falls.

It was extremely easy to strike a high comfort level with them. The children were adorable; and the young couple soon adjusted to our different versions of Spanish (Cuban vs. Salvadorian.)

By the time we left, we had established an excellent relationship. They showed us where the children go to school and where their Assembly of God congregation is building a new church. It was evidently clear that their faith was central to their lives. Yet, what happened when it was time to part was totally unexpected.

After me offering them a simple parting gift, they tell me “wait, we have something special for you.” I was ready for some small artifact from an artesian shop or a token from their farm.

I was totally moved when they presented to me their family bible that had gotten them through a very serious personal crisis earlier this year. They gave me the ultimate gift: Their faith.

THE DOCTOR

She looked not a day older than 16. Yet she assured me she was a doctor – a full fledged M.D. In this small town of only a handful of people, she shared they had four cases of HIV/AIDS last year.

There is no hospital here. The nearest hospital – the only hospital in all of Morazán – is an hour away. That hospital has all of 77 beds serving a population of over 177,000. That equals .43 beds for 1000 people, 1/5 of the U.S. figure of 2.6 beds per 1000 people.

I ask her how she is doing; how busy is she; and what’s been her biggest accomplishment. The tells me in a gentle voice that it is not about all they do, or how much medication they dispense… She tells me that her highest fulfillment as a doctor is to provide comfort to the sick, regardless of illness, stage in life, or human condition – one patient (or as she put it “one neighbor”) – at a time.

She so beautifully reaffirmed the notion that “it is not how you are doing”; it is “how you are taking it.”…

“Medical care without loving care is for naught, senseless, and meaningless”, she tells me… This young doctor surely has a wonderful future in front of her!

MOTHER TERESAS

They looked like beggars, the three short little old ladies that hung around the church during one of the many celebrations we attended. (And they were short – barely over 4 feet tall; if that!)

Old, missing teeth, probably indigenous. They would come up to you not to ask for money, but to shake your hand – and hug you if you’d let them.

The parish priest was asked “Who are these ladies?” He simply answered: “They are my Mother Teresas.” He went on to state how “they routinely come to mass, help with the sick and poor, and bring their smiling faces to church events.”

I am glad I hugged them.

OSCAR ROMERO

If there was ever any doubt that hope, faith, and charity can shine through the darkness of moments of despair in the mist of civil strife – and even war - and in an age of institutional transition and challenges, that doubt is laid to rest by the life of the Salvadorian hero and martyr Monsignor Oscar Romero. While it is impossible to simplify a people or attempt to categorize a culture in the spirit of one person, Monsignor Oscar Romero truly personifies the spirit of the Salvadorian people of good will. The people of El Salvador must feel rightfully proud – if simply humble (as they are in many things) – to have the guidance and spiritual direction of this great man. It is so evidently clear that his spirit lives on in the lives of ordinary Salvadorians – and in the authentic attempts of many of its leaders to form a truly ‘more just society.’

El Salvador taught me quite a bit in those short few days… I hope I left a little bit of me there in return…

It is heartwarming to know that this new connection will grow as we embark on new projects, programs, and initiatives to sustain our Sister City relationship between Montgomery County and Morazán, El Salvador.

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More info can also be found on the County’s web-site at:
http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/

The official press release from the US Embassy can be found at:
http://sansalvador.usembassy.gov/news/2011/07/27.html

Here’s how the local press (over there) covered it:
http://mediacenter.laprensagrafica.com/videos/v/convenio-de-hermanamiento-entre-morazan-y-montgomerympg

To see what some of the wonderful folks from Montgomery County are already doing there:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvplEFyKn1w

EXTRA!: The lyrics to a song unveiled while we visited the town of Joateca as they celebrated the opening of their town plaza (written by the town priest):
http://SSRC.homestead.com/Joateca_Song.html
Among the stanzas, one stands out:
“For the crisis that we are experiencing
Many of our brothers have had to leave the homeland
But now that they are so far away
They are always disposed to help us.”

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