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Looking for a way to help others in your community during this New Year’s week? Consider contributing some money or your time to Gaithersburg HELP, a critical part of the local safety net — which, given the current economic conditions, is likely seeing its resources stretched to the limit.

The following is taken from Gaithersburg HELP’s general brochure (PDF format — perfect for downloading, printing, and handing out to your neighbors). They also have a volunteer opportunities brochure available online.

Note that, in addition to calling the phone numbers and sending mail to the address listed below, according to their donations page you can also give to Gaithersburg HELP right now, online, via Just Give.

WHAT IS Gaithersburg HELP?

In 1968, the faith community of Gaithersburg recognized that emergencies happen quickly and government assistance takes time. To meet these immediate needs, congregations of churches and synagogues formed Gaithersburg HELP to provide short-term assistance in a coordinated fashion.

Now more than 25 congregations join in this network to help neighbors in the greater Gaithersburg community. Gaithersburg HELP also receives substantial support from private individuals, local businesses, and civic organizations.

All services are provided by a network of more than 200 volunteers, who work together in a common concern for others as an expression of love for their neighbors. As part of their ministry, Gaithersburg HELP volunteers provide listening, referral, and advocacy services.

Gaithersburg HELP collaborates with other agencies, such as the Upper Montgomery Assistance Network, to provide financial and other supports needed.

Each year, Gaithersburg HELP provides emergency assistance to more than 3,000 families in the Gaithersburg area. As the community continues to grow, so too do the demands on Gaithersburg HELP.

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Ways to Contribute to Gaithersburg HELP

• Volunteer Opportunities
• Leadership
• Telephone Screening
• Pantry
• Driver
• Program Management
• Administration

To volunteer call 301-216-2510 and leave a message in Box 6

• Donate Non-Perishable Food
  Contact your school, congregation or workplace to see if they collect food for Gaithersburg HELP or call us at 301-216-2510. Consider organizing a food drive at work, school, or other organization.
• Participate in Fundraising Events
  Join in the Help the Homeless Walk, the Crop Walk, or Thanksgiving in February, all of which support Gaithersburg HELP.
• Contribute Money
  Funds are used to provide perishable food, supplement food donations, contribute to Upper Montgomery Assistance Network for housing needs, and to provide other financial assistance and emergency medications. Direct financial contributions may be made to:

Gaithersburg HELP
431 N. Frederick Ave, Suite 105
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Or you can designate through United Way/CFC #8432

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What Gaithersburg HELP does for those in need

• FOOD: HELP provides a three-day supply of food based on family size from our local food pantry by appointment.
• INFANT NEEDS: HELP provides diapers and infant formula for short- term emergencies.
• PRESCRIPTIONS: HELP assists with emergency medical needs such as medicines.
• TRANSPORTATION: HELP assists with transportation to medical appointments and social service agencies.
• OTHER FINANCIAL NEEDS: HELP considers other emergency needs on a case by case basis to help families over a short period crisis.
• SUPPORT AND REFERRAL: HELP listens and offers guidance to identify other resources that clients may access during the stress and confusion of an emergency. This includes referrals for rent, utility bills, clothing, and furniture needs

To get help call 301-216-2510 and leave a message in the appropriate box

From the volunteer opportunities brochure:

LEADERSHIP ROLES

• Assistant Executive Directors provide back up to the Executive Director and take on specific areas of program management as needed.
• Delegates serve as representatives of member congregations on the Board of Directors.
• Financial Manager handles banking and bills, prepares budgets and reports, and maintains records.

TELEPHONE SCREENING

Work from one to five days a month returning phone messages from home.

• Food Coordinators work 1-2 days per month handling requests for food, scheduling pick-ups and entering data on laptop computer.
• Bilingual Volunteers work 2-4 days a month returning calls to Spanish speaking clients and coordinating the delivery of the requested assistance with the appropriate volunteers.
• Prescription/Financial Coordinators work one day a week handling requests for help with prescriptions or other financial assistance.
• Transportation Coordinators work one week per month handling requests for transportation, finding volunteer drivers or arranging for taxi service.
• Infant Needs Coordinators work one or more days a week responding to requests for diapers and formula.

PANTRY

Work once a month or as needed in various jobs at the Food Pantry.

• Property Manager manages the pantry space monitoring maintenance and arranging for repairs as needed.
• Pantry Workers prepare food packages for pick up by clients based on information provided by Food Coordinators.
• Pantry Organizers inventory, sort, and shelve food at the pantry.
• Stock Coordinators assist Pantry Chair with ordering and picking up supplies for the pantry.

DRIVERS

Work as needed or one afternoon or evening per month delivering food or transporting clients.

• Transportation Drivers work as needed to drive clients to weekday medical or social service appointments in the local area.
• Food Drivers go to the pantry and package food to deliver to homebound clients.

ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS

Help keep the organization running effectively by assisting with clerical and administrative functions.

• Publicity Coordinator prepares flyers, press releases, and brochures for distribution to the media and the community at large to publicize events and educate the public about the mission of Gaithersburg HELP.
• Roster Coordinator prepares the mailing of our monthly Volunteer Roster.
• Newsletter Coordinator prepares the mailing of our semi-annual Newsletter.
• Alternate Secretary attends meetings of the Board or Executive Committee to record minutes when the regular secretary is not able to attend the meeting.

PROGRAM MANAGEMENT

Various opportunities to coordinate specific program areas or events in a leadership role.

• Grant Writers help complete Grant applications and investigate fund raising opportunities.
• Transportation Assistant helps supervise proper functioning of the Transportation program.
• Youth Coordinator supervises youth volunteers in various activities.
• Volunteer Coordinator screens volunteer applicants, refers for appropriate positions, prepares recruitment materials and public service announcements and handles volunteer issues.
• Latino Providers Liaison represents Gaithersburg HELP at the Latino Providers meetings and communicates relevant information to our Executive Committee and Bilingual Volunteers.
• Thanksgiving in February Volunteers solicit restaurants in the summer and early fall to participate in this county-wide fundraiser.
• Mini-walk Coordinators organize mini-walks in the local schools and congregations as part of the fall Fannie Mae Foundation Help the Homeless Walk.
• Volunteer Recognition Event Planners assist with events to honor our volunteers.
• Food Drive Coordinator solicits food drives at schools, businesses, and other community organizations.
• United Way/CFC Coordinator organizes efforts to increase our United Way/CFC participation and represents us at agency events.

From the City’s website:

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Aggravated Assault

On 12/28/08 at 2:35 a.m. police units responded to the 400 block of W. Side Drive for the report of an aggravated assault. One subject was found in possession of a 12 gauge shotgun. The suspect was arrested without incident.

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Friday, December 26, 2008

Burglary

Unknown subjects burglarized the Grog and the Indian Market at the Quince Orchard Plaza Shopping center.

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Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Burglary

On 12/24/2008 at approximately 2:38 a.m., an unknown person(s) forced entry into the Absolute Mac located at 895 Quince Orchard Road and stole numerous merchandise. The investigation is ongoing.

12/23/2008 at approx. 8:00 am police responded for the burglary that occurred earlier at 112 W. Diamond Ave. Suspects unknown broke out windows and ransacked the business.

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Monday, December 22, 2008

Armed Robbery

On 12/23/2008 at 6:20 pm units responded to the tennis court area of Kelley Park, 400 block of Victory Farm Drive, for an armed robbery. Victim was walking in area of the tennis courts when the suspect approached, brandished a 4″ bladed folding knife, stole an iPod and cash and fled on foot. Investigation to follow.

Suspect: Hispanic male, approx. 6 feet tall, thin, wearing dark hat, and a dark sweater .

Burglary

On 12/22/2008 at 6:27 pm victim responded back to residence located in the 100 block of Gold Kettle Drive and found the front door open and items missing. Investigation to continue

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Saturday, December 20, 2008

Armed Robbery

On 12/20/08 at 10:00 pm., Police responded to the unit block of Bralan Court for an armed robbery of a citizen. The victim was struck over the head with a brick and a purse was taken.

Suspect: Dark skinned black/male, dark clothing, hooded jacket, stocky build.

Via Connected Communites, where reports for all six districts are available.

P1 Beat:

• An attempted residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of Duvall Lane in Gaithersburg on Friday, 12/12 between 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Force used, but no entry was made.
• A residential burglary from a storage shed occurred in the 200 block of Water Street in Gaithersburg between Sunday, 12/14 and Monday 12/15. Force used and property was removed.

P2 Beat:

• A residential burglary occurred at the unit block of Goodport Lane in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 12/13 around 5:10 pm. The resident heard glass breaking and immediately left the house. Responding units found a rear basement window broken. Nearby, three suspects were stopped
  and found to be in possession of property from the house. All three were arrested and charged.
• A strong-arm robbery occurred in the 500 block of North Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/16 around 10:30 p.m. The adult male victim exited a bus and was followed by three B/Ms into an apartment complex where he was assaulted and robbed.
• A commercial burglary occurred at Absolute Mac, 895 Quince Orchard Road in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 12/10 at 2:40 a.m. Responding to an alarm, units found forced entry. The owner advised numerous items were stolen.

R1 Beat:

• An attempted robbery occurred on Wednesday, 12/10 around 5:00 p.m. at Lake Forest Boulevard and Russell Avenue in Montgomery Village. The adult male victim was approached by two suspects, one brandishing a knife who demanded his cash. The victim refused and was cut with the knife. Injuries are non-life threatening. No property was taken.

  Suspect: H/M, 35 years old, 5’7” tall, 165 lbs., mustache, black sweater, blue jeans, knife
  Suspect: B/M, 37 years old, 6’0” tall, 180-200 lbs., dredlocks, grey winter hat, black jacket

• A residential burglary occurred in the 9700 block of Hellingly Place in Montgomery Village on Friday, 12/12 between 4:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Victim returned and found forced entry, but nothing was missing.
• An aggravated assault/theft occurred on Tuesday, 12/16 around 4:45 p.m. after a shoplifting occurred at the Sports Authority located at 101 Odend’hal Avenue in Gaithersburg. The suspects (Two B/Ms, Two B/Fs, 16-18 years of age) shoplifted from the store and exited to a vehicle. A female security officer attempted apprehension when one of the female suspects pointed a
  handgun at her. The lookout was for a white Chrysler Sebring with DC/tags.

R2 Beat:

• A garage burglary occurred on Thursday, 12/11 between 5:30 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. in the 20500 block of Highland Hall Drive in Montgomery Village. An unlocked vehicle was entered and searched. Assorted keys and a flash drive were stolen.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 10100 block of Ridgeline Drive in Montgomery Village overnight between 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, 12/13 and 10:00 p.m. on Sunday, 12/14. There were no signs of forced entry, but property was reported missing.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 20300 block of Grazing Way in Montgomery Village on Monday, 12/15 between 7:45 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. There were no signs of forced entry, but property was reported missing.

S1 Beat:

• An attempted burglary occurred in the 200 block of Lee Street in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/9 between 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Force used, but no entry was made.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 100 block of Grange Hall Drive in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 12/10 between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed.

S2 Beat:

• A commercial burglary occurred at Squared Solutions located at 19322 Woodfield Road in Gaithersburg on Sunday, 12/14 at 2:14 a.m. Responding to an alarm, units found the front door glass smashed. The owner could not determine if anything was taken.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 20000 block of Mattingly Terrace in Gaithersburg on Monday, 12/08 between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed. Two suspects were seen in the area.

  Suspect: W/M, 5’8” to 6’0” tall, black hoody, blue jeans
  Suspect: W/M, 5’8” to 6’0” tall, bald, grey hoody

• A residential burglary occurred in the 17900 block of Calabar Drive in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/09 between 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed. A suspect was arrested nearby and property was recovered.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 7300 block of Brennish Drive in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/09 between 2:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed. Three B/M suspects were seen in the area.

Via Connected Communites, where reports for all six districts are available.

P1 Beat:

• An aggravated assault occurred between roommates in the 300 block of West Deer Park Road in Gaithersburg on Friday, 12/5. A 15-year-old allegedly struck the adult female victim and bit her finger.
• A residential burglary occurred on Blazing Star Way in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/2 at 10:40 a.m. Forced entry but resident was home and suspect fled.

  Suspect: W/M 20-30 years, 5’8” to 5’9”, 170-180 lbs., short hair, dark blue jacket

P2 Beat:

• A robbery occurred to the rear of 500 block of Quince Orchard Road in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/2 around 11:35 a.m. A Starbucks employee was walking to the bank with the deposit, when she was approached by a suspect with a handgun. The suspect demanded the bank deposit bag and
  fled. Through the investigation, an arrest was made later the same evening.
• A street robbery occurred in the parking lot of 1 Water Street in Gaithersburg on Sunday, 12/7 at 3:45 a.m. The two adult male victims were accosted by a female neighbor who along with by five of the female’s friends (B/Ms, 20-29 years, NFD) assaulted the victims and stole their property.
• A commercial burglary occurred at the Absolute Mac store on 895 Quince Orchard Road in Gaithersburg on Sunday, 12/7 around 1:15 p.m. Forced entry, but the owner believed nothing was taken.
• A residential burglary occurred on Friday, 12/5 between 10:45 a.m. and 2:40 p.m. in the 300 block of Tannery Drive in Gaithersburg. Forced entry and property was removed.

1/24 and Tuesday, 11/25. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and stole the ashtray containing change.

R1 Beat:

• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 9600 block of Horizon Run in Montgomery Village on Thursday, 12/4. Suspects broke the window and removed a cell phone and cell phone charger.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 18500 block of Locust Point Court in Montgomery Village between Thursday, 12/4 and Friday, 12/5. Suspects broke the window and removed a cell phone and charger.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 9800 block of Lake Shore Drive in Montgomery Village between Thursday, 12/4 and Friday, 12/5. Suspects broke the window and removed a knapsack.

R2 Beat:

• A residential burglary occurred on Monday, 12/1 in the 20300 block of Pleasant Ridge Drive in Montgomery Village. No force but property was removed.
• An attempted residential burglary occurred on Tuesday, 12/2 in the 9200 block of Chadburn Place in Montgomery Village. Force used but no entry was made.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 18900 block of Mills Choice Road in Montgomery Village on Friday, 12/5. Forced entry, property taken.

S1 Beat:

• A residential burglary occurred in the 400 block of Belle Grove Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 12/6 at 7:30 p.m. Forced entry but no property was removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred on Michael Court in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/2. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and removed a stereo system, BB gun, and paint ball gun.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 300 block of N. Summit Avenue in Gaithersburg overnight between Monday, 12/1 and Tuesday, 12/2. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and removed a stereo system.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 200 block of Oakton Road in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 12/3. Suspects broke the window and removed a digital camera and case.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 100 block of Tulip Drive in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 12/3. Suspects broke the window and removed an iPod.

S2 Beat:

• An armed robbery occurred at the BB&T bank, 8019 Snouffer School Road in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/9 around 9:20 a.m. The suspect demanded money and brandished a handgun. Suspect obtained cash and fled on foot.
  Suspect: B/M, 6’0”, heavyset, winter coat with a hood, ski cap, handgun
• An aggravated assault occurred on Tuesday, 12/5 in the 17800 block of Washington Grove Lane in Washington Grove. The parties involved are adult neighbors and when an argument escalated, one pulled out a handgun. Suspect fled on foot. Investigation is ongoing.

  Suspect: B/M 6’0”, 255,
  Suspect Vehicle: White pick-up truck

Kathleen Miller writes,

Maryland’s House majority leader and his wife improperly received property tax credits worth thousands of dollars over the past several years, even after he co-sponsored a bill designed to crack down on tax cheats.

Gaithersburg Del. Kumar Barve, the second-highest-ranking Democrat in the State House, and his lawyer wife, Maureen Quinn, each claimed a different home as their primary residence on tax forms, although Barve’s Web site says they both live in Gaithersburg. According to public records, the move triggered tax credits worth $5,844.88 on Quinn’s Annapolis property and $3,575.13 on Barve’s Gaithersburg home over the past three years.

From the City’s website:

Friday, December 19, 2008

Attempted Burglary

On 12/19/08, at 3:32 a. m., police responded to 225 Muddy Branch Road (Brighton Beer and Wine) for an alarm. Upon arrival, officers found the front glass broken. The suspect(s) did not gain entry.

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Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Aggravated Assault

On 12/17/08, at 4:05 p.m., police responded to the 400 block of N Summit Avenue for the report of an assault. The victim and known suspect were having a verbal argument when the suspect pulled out a utility knife and tried to stab the victim. The suspect was arrested at the scene.

Attempted Burglary

On 12/12/08, at approximately 11:00 p.m., police responded to the 100 block of Duvall Lane for the report of a burglary. The front door had been pried away from the door frame and the deadbolt could not be opened. No entry was made.

Burglary

On 12/17/08, at approximately 3:35 p.m., police responded to the 400 block of Muddy Branch Road for the report of a burglary. The resident left for a short while and upon returning noticed some property was missing. There were no signs of forced entry.

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Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Armed Robbery

On 12/16/08, at 4:46 p.m., the suspects entered the Sports Authority, located at 101 OdendHal Avenue, stole merchandise and fled the store. As employees were pursuing them a female suspect pointed a handgun at them. All suspects then fled the scene in a vehicle. Investigation to continue.

Suspects #1 and #2 - Black males, 16-18 yrs old, wearing dark clothing.
Suspects #3 and #4 - Black females, 16-18 yrs old, wearing dark clothing.

Burglary

Sometime between 12/15/08 at 4:15 p.m. and 12/16/08 at 7:45 a.m., an unknown suspect burglarized a residence in the unit block of Peony Drive. No property was taken.

Strong Arm Robbery

On 12/16/08, at 10:28 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of S. Frederick Avenue for a strong arm robbery of a citizen. The victim reported that he was approached from behind by three black males (no further description) who attacked him and took his wallet. The suspects fled on foot. The victim was uninjured. An investigation is ongoing.

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Monday, December 15, 2008

Burglary

On 12/15/08, at approximately 10:15 a.m., police responded to the 200 block of Water Street for the report of a burglary that occurred the night before. Suspects unknown removed landscape equipment from the shed.

Robbery

On 12/15/08, at 10:30 p.m., the victim was robbed by two known suspects in the parking lot at 558 N Frederick Avenue. The suspects were arrested at the scene.

I think they mean “last gift” as in the last gift for the year, not last in any other sense…

From the City’s website:

Residents Urged to “Give One Last Gift” at Holiday Giving Fair and Blood Drive on December 30
Posted 11/21/2008

The City of Gaithersburg, nonprofit organizations and Inova Blood Donor services invites the entire community to explore ways to help others this holiday season at the City of Gaithersburg Giving Fair and Blood Drive on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 from 2 to 7 p.m. at Casey Community Center, 810 S. Frederick Ave. 

The Giving Fair will feature a variety of nonprofit organizations that will be on  hand to share information and resources on a wide range of services.  The end of the year is the perfect time to consider a tax deductible charitable contribution, but there are countless other needs that could benefit from your time and talent as well.  Explore how you can get involved and make a difference in your community.

The need for blood reaches critical levels during the holiday season.  Residents are encouraged to give the ultimate gift of life at the blood drive.  To schedule an appointment, call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (256-6372) or simply drop by the Giving Fair and Blood Drive between 2 and 7 p.m.

For more information on please contact the Gaithersburg Division of Community Services at 301-258-6395 x4 or email communityservices@gaithersburgmd.gov.

• Sebastian Montes writes, Millions requested for Leggett’s relocation plan:
  

  With several land deals on the verge of closing, Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett has asked the County Council for tens of millions of dollars to begin design of his sweeping proposal to relocate more than a dozen county agencies to four sites from Shady Grove to Montgomery Village to the Kentlands.

• Patricia M. Murret writes, Debate raises specter of criminals vs. victims:
  

  Between 2005 and 2007, county judges lessened the sentences of 13 murderers and seven rapists along with those of nearly 500 other criminals, according to Montgomery County Circuit Court records.

  Not one of those sentence changes, known as reconsiderations, was reported to the state Commission on Criminal Sentencing Policy, which is charged with monitoring the controversial process, according to David Soulé, executive director of the panel.

• C. Benjamin Ford writes, Homicide tally on par with last year:
  

  Montgomery County has had 18 homicides this year, a similar number to last year, and police say the county’s emergency medical personnel deserve much credit for holding down the statistic.

• Sebastian Montes writes, ‘Science City’ draft details jobs, housing:
  

  A 500-acre area between Gaithersburg and Rockville could in 30 and 40 years be home to 62,000 jobs and 22 million square feet of research, commercial and office space: a “Science City” that would dwarf the National Institutes of Health and could put Montgomery County at the forefront of science worldwide, according to a working draft of the Gaithersburg West master plan released last week.

• Patricia M. Murret writes, Shutterbug documents Gaithersburg’s past and present:
  

  Looking out an office window in May, Shaun Curtis of Gaithersburg saw the fields of the historic Crown Farm property, which until several years ago housed a farm dating to the late 1800s.

  “Oh man, they’re going to destroy this!” he thought. Camera in hand, the 27-year-old sneaked onto the property, marveling at two 19th century houses, a log cabin, barns, sheds and silos.

• Patricia M. Murret writes, Prosecutors want adult charges for teen in bomb-making case:
  

  Prosecutors want an alleged teenage bomb maker to be tried as an adult, according to the boy’s attorney.

  The defendant, a Gaithersburg 17-year-old, was charged as a juvenile last summer with making pipe bombs with a Bethesda man.

• Douglas Tallman and Patricia M. Murret write, Lawsuit over watershed is near settlement:
  

  An environmental activist group and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources are close to settling a lawsuit filed over the lead cleanup of Great Seneca Creek, the largest watershed in Montgomery County.

• Patricia M. Murret writes, Armed man robs BB&T bank on Snouffer School Road:
  

  A man with a gun gave a bank teller a note and then robbed a BB&T in Gaithersburg last week, according to county police.

  The man entered the bank at 8019 Snouffer School Road at 9:30 a.m. Dec. 10, gave the teller a note and displayed a gun, police said. No injuries have been reported, said Officer Oliver Janney, a Montgomery County Police spokesman.

• Sebastian Montes writes, ACLU seeks county policies on immigrants in Maryland:
  

  In a first-time initiative modeled after projects in other states, the Maryland chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union is probing every county in the state to see if their stated policies toward immigrants match up with practice.

• Marcus Moore writes, Schools spending could stay nearly flat:
  

  If there is a theme in schools Superintendent Jerry D. Weast’s proposed fiscal 2010 spending plan, it’s: Do more with less.

  Last week, Weast unveiled a $2.10 billion operating budget request, a $40.2 million increase over the $2.06 billion fiscal 2009 budget.

• Janel Davis writes, Senate president vows to help Leggett erase ‘line in the sand’:
  

  County Executive Isiah Leggett’s hard stance last week against the state transferring teacher pensions payments to the county resurfaced Tuesday in Annapolis, with legislative leaders warning of dire budget actions next year.

  “My good friend Ike Leggett said that he’s going to draw a line in the sand,” Miller (D-Dist. 27) of Chesapeake Beach said yesterday in the state capital. “You never want to draw a line in the sand. Believe me, because I’ve had to rub out many of them in my lifetime, and I’m going to help him rub that one out as well.”

• Patricia M. Murret writes, Gaithersburg High School receives bomb threat:
  

  Police responded to the third bomb threat at a Montgomery County high school this week and again determined that there was no threat to the schools.

  This morning’s threat to Gaithersburg High School was low-level, police said, especially given its non-descript nature and two unfounded threats made this week at Clarksburg High School, said Gaithersburg Police Cpl. John Leache.

• Margie Hyslop writes, Hanson: County needs urban model:
  

  Montgomery County needs to adopt an urban development model to handle growth, demographic changes and a diminishing supply of developable land, Planning Board Chairman Royce Hanson told the Montgomery County Civic Federation last week.

• Melissa J. Brachfeld writes, Park sites opened for Inauguration visitors:
  

  Little Bennett Campground in Clarksburg and Rockwood Manor in Potomac will be open for those looking for a place to stay during the Inauguration Week festivities for President-elect Barack H. Obama (D) next month.

Via Connected Communites, where reports for all six districts are available.

P1 Beat:

• An armed street robbery occurred in the 300 block of Buttry Road in Gaithersburg on Sunday, 11/30 just before 3:30 a.m. A suspect was observed attempting to steal a bicycle. When confronted by the owner, the suspect produced a knife and slashed at the victim. Others joined the
  fray and two suspects were arrested at the scene.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 400 block of Curry Ford Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 400 block of W. Diamond Avenue in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a stereo system.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 400 block of W. Diamond Avenue in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit, radar detector and an iPod.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 17100 block of Downing Street in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 17100 block of Downing Street in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit and change.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 200 block of Rio Blvd. in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 after 2:00 a.m. No force used but clothing, car stereo and an iPod were removed.
• A commercial burglary occurred at the Brighton Beer & Wine, 225 Muddy Branch Road, in Gaithersburg on Tuesday, 12/2 at 12:40 am. Suspects Forced entry and removed property.

P2 Beat:

• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 800 block of Diamond Drive in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Vehicle unlocked and cash was removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 1000 block of Bayridge Terrace in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Vehicle unlocked and a checkbook was removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 200 block of Cherrywood Terrace in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed an iPod and cash.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred on Midline Court in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Vehicle unlocked and a GPS was removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred on East Darby Court in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Vehicle unlocked and a wallet with cash and an iPod were removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 11500 block of Sullnick Way in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window but nothing was removed.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 800 block of Clopper Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a radar detector.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 800 block of Clopper Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed property.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 900 block of Clopper Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred on Oak Shade Road in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke the window and removed a GPS unit.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 800 block of Crystal Court in Gaithersburg on Saturday, 11/29 between 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Suspects broke window and took an iPod.

R1 Beat:

• A commercial burglary occurred at an office at 975 Russell Avenue in Gaithersburg sometime between Monday, 11/24 and Friday, 11/28. There was no sign of forced entry and property was taken.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 9600 block of Lost Knife Road in Montgomery Village on Monday, 11/24. Vehicle unlocked and a knapsack was taken
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 18100 block of Tunstall Drive in
  Montgomery Village overnight between Tuesday, 11/25 and Wednesday, 11/26. Suspects broke the window and removed a digital camera.
• An attempted theft from a vehicle occurred in the 9600 block of Horizon Run court in Montgomery Village overnight on Thursday, 11/27. Suspects pried the window but did not gain entry.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 18000 block of Royal Bonnet Circle in Montgomery Village overnight on Thursday, 11/27. Suspects broke the window and removed a cell phone and computer.

R2 Beat:

• A residential burglary occurred in the 7800 block of Yankee Harbor Drive in Montgomery Village. Eighteen juveniles were charged with CDS violations and burglary after breaking into a townhouse on Wednesday, 11/26 around 2:00 p.m. to hold a party.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 19400 block of Thomas Farm Drive in Montgomery Village overnight between Monday, 11/24 and Tuesday, 11/25. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and stole the ashtray containing change.

• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 19300 block of Keymar Way in Montgomery Village on Monday, 11/24. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and removed a wallet containing cash and credit cards.
• A theft from a vehicle occurred in the 9600 block of Marston Lane in Montgomery Village on Tuesday, 11/25. Suspects entered an unlocked vehicle and removed a wallet containing cash, credit cards, and food stamps.

S1 Beat:

• A residential apartment burglary occurred in the 200 block of Park Avenue in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 11/26 between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed.
• A residential apartment burglary occurred in the 200 block of Park Avenue in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 11/26 between 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Forced entry and property was removed.
• A residential apartment burglary occurred in the 200 block of Park Avenue in Gaithersburg between Tuesday, 11/25 and Thursday, 11/27. Forced entry and property was removed.
• A residential apartment burglary occurred in the 200 block of Park Avenue in Gaithersburg between Wednesday, 11/26 and Friday, 11/28. Forced entry and property was removed.
• A residential burglary occurred in the 9100 block of Emory Woods Terrace in Gaithersburg on Wednesday, 11/26 around noon. No force used but doors were found open. No property reported missing.
• A residential burglary occurred on Maplewood Court in Gaithersburg on Sunday, 11/30. This incident was domestic-related and the suspect was arrested on the scene.

S2 Beat:

• An officer-involved shooting occurred after an officer was assaulted at the Church of the Redeemer, 19425 Woodfield Road in Gaithersburg on Wednesday,11/26 around 7:10 pm. The defendant was driving recklessly through MCP traffic direction and pulled into the church lot, drove
  into an officer, injuring the officer’s foot, then turned and sped off. The 16-year-old male suspect was later arrested and charged.
• An attempted burglary occurred on Thursday, 11/27 around 7:15 p.m., at the Church of the Redeemer, 19425 Woodfield Road in Gaithersburg. Forced entry was found but no entry was made.
• A garage burglary occurred in the 7400 block of Muncaster Mill Road in Derwood on Wednesday, 11/26 just after 3:30 am. The victim found his generator moved and that gas had been siphoned from it.
  Suspect: Male, 18 to 24 years, thin, wearing a black hoodie
• A commercial burglary occurred at Squared Solutions, 19322 Woodfield Road in Gaithersburg between Wednesday, 11/26 and Thursday 11/27. Forced entry and property was moved around inside. The suspect could not get the property through the point of entry and left it at the door. No
  other property was disturbed.