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In this episode of "What's Happening MoCo," Anthony Featherstone, Executive Director of WorkSource Montgomery, discusses the organization's role in supporting the county's workforce through nine job centers. He highlights the Mobilize Montgomery coalition's efforts to assist highly-skilled professionals affected by federal workforce reductions. Dr. Elizabeth Carr joins to talk about the importance and implementation of internship programs. The episode offers practical strategies for job seekers, small business owners, and students.

For job resources, visit worksourcemontgomery.com or visit the job center at 11510 Georgia Avenue.

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In this episode of the What's Happening MoCo Podcst, we talk to father and son Potato Chip business duo Gary and Brian Edell. When Gary Edell started making homemade potato chips for his son Brian's baseball team gatherings in 2009, he never imagined those crispy, thin-sliced snacks would eventually become a thriving business competing against industry giants.

From an operation that once produced 20 pounds of potatoes in two hours in Gary's kitchen, they now process 2,000 pounds per hour and can be found in over 950 stores including Giant, Wegmans, and Fresh Market.

Gary's advice to fathers everywhere: support your children's passions, even when they differ from your own.

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Nestled in the heart of Rockville, Maryland lies a community treasure that many Montgomery County residents might be surprised to discover is open to everyone. The Bender JCC of Greater Washington isn't just a fitness center or cultural hub—it's a 119,000-square-foot community crossroads where diversity thrives and inclusion isn't just talked about, it's lived daily.

CEO Joshua Bender (coincidentally sharing the name with the center's benefactors) paints a vivid picture of what makes this space special: "If you stand in our lobby long enough, you'll hear 12, 15 languages throughout the day."

Visit benderjccgw.org to learn more about how you can become part of this vibrant community hub that's been serving the region since 1969.

This episode also includes excerpts from interviews recorded during National Bring Your Child to Work Day at Montgomery County Government.

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This podcast episode was recorded in April 2024. This conversation with the Autism Society of Maryland explores how neurodiversity presents uniquely in each individual and why the shift from merely "awareness" to genuine "acceptance" matters deeply.

Executive Director Melissa Rosenberg shares how their organization expanded from Howard County to now serve Montgomery and Anne Arundel counties, providing free resources, support groups, and community connections to families navigating an autism diagnosis. With autism affecting approximately 1 in 36 children nationally and 1 in 43 in Maryland, their work addresses a growing need for specialized support at every life stage.

The podcast takes a powerful turn when Resource Coordinator Kristen Letnick, who is autistic herself, offers insights from both professional expertise and lived experience. Listeners will discover the comprehensive resources available through the County's Autism Waiver Program and how the Autism Society helps families navigate complex support systems.

Connect with the Autism Society of Maryland at www.autismsocietymd.org or by phone at 410-290-3466 to access their multilingual resources and support services.

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Montgomery County's vibrant culinary landscape takes center stage as we preview the upcoming MoCo Eats Food and Beverage Showcase with Leticia Engel from Visit Montgomery. This mouthwatering conversation reveals the surprising diversity and entrepreneurial spirit behind our local food scene.

The showcase, happening March 30-31, features over 90 businesses sharing their delicious creations and inspiring stories. The two-day event features a Consumer Expo ($20 tickets) where food lovers can sample and purchase products while meeting makers, followed by a professional Hospitality Conference with keynote speaker Seth Goldman (Honest Tea co-founder) and panel discussions on industry topics.

Download the Visit MoCo app to plan your tasting adventure, check in at vendor booths, and possibly win prizes while supporting the businesses that make Montgomery County a true culinary destination.

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With special guest host Dr. Kisha Davis, MoCo's Health Officer, we dive into mental health and self-care with therapist Marilyn Spenadel from the Holistic Wellness Enrichment Center. Exploring the profound impact that mindfulness has on our mental well-being, Marilyn shares five transformative self-care tips to navigate life's challenges, as Dr. Kisha guides the discussion.

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Montgomery County Council President Kate Stewart, as we discover her political journey from resident to County Council President. She shares her favorite things about the County and her priorities in 2025 as Council president. This include support and guidance for federal government workers, LGBTQ community and resources for mental health.

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Curious about the hidden tales of Montgomery County, Maryland? Brian G. Myers, a dedicated young historian and author, joins us to unravel the fascinating stories tucked away in local archives. At just 24, Brian's passion for genealogy has led him to compile an extensive family tree and an impressive genealogy project.

Discover Brian's path to authorship, starting with a winter break project that blossomed into a published book. As the pandemic reshaped our world, it also sparked Brian's ambition to write a second book, set to release in February 2025, filled with extraordinary tales from Montgomery County's past. He teases one of the riveting stories about Vernon, or "Villa Thompson," promising to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

His upcoming book, "Hidden History of Montgomery County, Maryland," scheduled for February 4th release, breaks away from traditional historical narratives. By incorporating elements of local sports, pop culture, and modern events, the book becomes an intriguing tapestry that invites readers to uncover Montgomery County's secrets.