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The health disparities affecting minority communities in Montgomery County demand urgent attention and innovative solutions. In this candid conversation, Councilmember Lori Ann Sales—the first Jamaican American and Black woman to serve in countywide office—brings her unique background in public health to address the systemic challenges facing underserved populations.

In the second segment, Monica Martin, Chief of Behavioral Health and Crisis Services, offers practical guidance for Suicide Prevention Month. She demystifies mental health support, explaining warning signs like persistent sadness, social withdrawal, and changes in sleep patterns. Martin emphasizes that seeking help demonstrates strength, not weakness, while providing concrete resources available to all county residents regardless of insurance status.

Join this important conversation about health equity, access to care, and the innovative approaches Montgomery County is taking to ensure everyone—regardless of background—can achieve optimal health and wellbeing.

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As communities across America grapple with tension and uncertainty, Montgomery County's 11th annual Friendship Picnic offers a powerful antidote to division. Nestled under the canopy of trees at Wheaton Regional Park, residents from all walks of life gather to celebrate what connects us rather than what separates us.

"Whatever happens around us here in Montgomery County, we're going to make it work across our various diverse lines, across cultural lines, across religious lines," declares Jim Stowe, Director of the Office of Human Rights and driving force behind the event. His vision of Dr. King's "beloved community" isn't just rhetoric—it's being lived out through food, music, and genuine human connection.

The magic of the picnic lies in its simplicity: "Zero drama, 100% fun, 100% food, 100% music." Children form instant friendships at the reptile petting zoo while adults sample unfamiliar cuisines and engage in conversations that go beyond superficial greetings. County Council members, public safety officials, and department representatives mingle with residents, breaking down barriers between government and the people it serves.

When asked why friendship matters, responses range from the profound to the practical. "Friendship is the family we choose for ourselves," reflects a visitor from New York. "We learn together and we grow together." A young boy offers the simplest truth: "Without friendship we would all be lonely."

In these divided times, the Friendship Picnic stands as a testament to what's possible when we focus on our shared humanity. As County Councilmember Andrew Friedson puts it, the event shows "hope at a time of despair" and demonstrates "what belonging and community really looks like."

Join us next September for this annual tradition that reminds us all: in Montgomery County, we're making community work, one friendship at a time.

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The semicolon tattoo on Alnicia Gibson's wrist tells a powerful story - it represents choosing to continue when she could have ended her life. As chair of Montgomery County's Out of the Darkness Community Walk, Gibson transforms her lived experience into action, rallying the community against a crisis that ranks as the third leading cause of death among young people aged 15-24 in Maryland.

This eye-opening conversation reveals the devastating prevalence of suicide in our communities while highlighting Montgomery County's comprehensive response system. Manuel Calero, a therapist with 25 years of experience at the Montgomery County Crisis Center, explains their revolutionary approach to mental health emergencies - a free, 24/7 service that functions like "an ER for people having emotional issues."

The episode concludes with Rosalyn Houston from the Montgomery County Volunteer Center highlighting their upcoming "Fall into Service" event, offering a reminder that community connection serves as a powerful antidote to isolation and mental health struggles. Whether you're personally affected by suicide or simply want to support those who are, this episode provides concrete resources, upcoming events, and hope-filled perspectives for anyone navigating these difficult waters.

Join the Montgomery County Out of the Darkness Community Walk on September 21st at the Adventist Healthcare Soccerplex in Boyds, MD. Registration begins at 9am, with the walk starting at 10am. Your presence matters in bringing this critical issue out of the shadows and into the light.

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Groundbreaking innovation emerges from right here in Montgomery County as we speak with Jasmin El Kordi, CEO of M Blue Labs. Their patented ingredient methylene blue is revolutionizing skincare with dual benefits.

The conversation takes an enlightening turn when therapist Marilyn Spinadel joins us to share practical mental wellness techniques you can incorporate into daily life.

Both segments showcase Montgomery County as a hub for innovation - whether developing cutting-edge skincare technology or pioneering approaches to mental wellness. Subscribe to hear more inspiring local stories and practical wisdom from the people making a difference in our community.

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Step into the vibrant world of the 76th Annual Montgomery County Agricultural Fair as we take you behind the scenes of this cherished summer tradition. Through conversations with dedicated volunteers, passionate 4-H members, and innovative vendors, we discover the heart and soul of what makes this nine-day celebration so special.

Whether you're planning your visit or simply curious about this cornerstone of Montgomery County culture, this episode captures the educational value, family traditions, and pure fun that have made the Agricultural Fair a beloved institution for over seven decades. Come experience the "endless fun included" at this celebration of our County's agricultural heritage!

Subscribe to What's Happening MoCo for more stories that highlight the people, places, and events that make Montgomery County special.

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Have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes at your local fire department? Chief Corey Smedley pulls back the curtain on Montgomery County's Fire and Rescue Service, revealing surprising truths that challenge everything you thought you knew about emergency response.

From practical summer safety tips about barbecuing and AC maintenance to flood preparedness advice, Chief Smedley provides life-saving information every resident should know. His journey from being inspired by his firefighter sister to leading one of the region's largest emergency service departments showcases the power of mentorship and personal growth. Whether you're interested in public safety, leadership principles, or simply want to better understand the evolving role of first responders in your community, this conversation offers valuable insights into the people who work tirelessly to keep Montgomery County safe. Ready to learn more? Visit mcfrs.org to explore resources and career opportunities with the department.

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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.