Interview with Carlos Cortes-Vazquez, Montgomery County Police Officer. 

This week’s edition of En Sintonía features a conversation with MCPD Officer Carlos Cortes, who provides an in-depth look at the Security Camera Expansion Program. He covers the program’s requirements, application process, and available rebate offerings. Officer Cortes will also discuss the expansion of the MCPD Drone as First Responder Program into the Bethesda area—an initiative that has already proven effective in enhancing public safety. Launched in November 2023, the program is currently active in the 3rd District (downtown Silver Spring), 4th District (Wheaton/Glenmont), 6th District (Gaithersburg/Montgomery Village), and 2nd District (Bethesda). Since its inception, the program has completed over 2,000 flights.

Interview with Dr. Luis Aguirre, Program Manager with the Montgomery County Latino Health Initiative. 

This week’s edition of "En Sintonía” provides an in-depth look at measles, a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe health complications, especially in young children, adults with weakened immune systems and pregnant women. Dr. Aguirre discusses the symptoms, such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash, along with the causes and how the virus spreads through respiratory droplets. The segment also explores the risk factors that increase susceptibility to infection, including lack of vaccination and close contact with infected individuals.

Interview with Leslie Martinez at Montgomery Health Connections.

This week’s edition of "En Sintonía" highlights the special enrollment for health insurance through Maryland Health Connection. Individuals who experience certain life events may qualify to enroll outside the annual open enrollment period. Qualifying life events include getting married or divorced, having a child, moving to Maryland, losing job-based coverage, or becoming ineligible for Medicaid or the Maryland Children's Health Program (MCHP). For help with health insurance applications or to schedule an appointment, call 240-777-1825. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Interview with Alondra Colindres Lagos, HVAC Recruiter Specialist at Montgomery College.

This week’s edition of "En Sintonía" highlights the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) training programs offered by Montgomery College. Montgomery College wants to help individuals succeed in their industry-accredited HVAC program. Students will receive a comprehensive blend of academic and technical training.

Interview with Michelle Escobar, investigator with the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection.

This week’s edition of "En Sintonía" focuses on National Consumer Protection Week. The show will feature a conversation with Ms. Escobar, an investigator from the Montgomery County Office of Consumer Protection. She will share valuable tips on understanding consumer rights and how to avoid fraud and scams. Ms. Escobar will discuss ways to protect yourself from attempts to steal your personal information, the steps to take if something goes wrong, and how to file a consumer complaint.

Interview with Monika Hammer, Communications and Public Outreach Manager at Montgomery County Recreation.

This week’s edition of En Sintonía highlights the Prom Couture Closet giveaway event. Montgomery Recreation is collecting gently used and new dresses, suits, dry-cleaned shirts, shoes, ties and accessories. The radio show will begin by highlighting a special collection that will take place on Saturday, March 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Germantown Community Recreation Center, which is located at 18905 Kingsview Rd. On Saturday, April 5, any high school student with their school identification can select a free prom dress or suit, along with shoes and accessories, at the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Interview with Edith Lozada, Spanish communications specialist and Spanish language public information officer at Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS).

This week’s edition of En Sintonía highlights several important announcements from MCPS. The first topic of discussion will be kindergarten enrollment, which is now open through the ParentVue portal. In-person registration will begin on March 17 for the 2025-2026 school year. Ms. Lozada will provide information on vaccine requirements, documentation, and the enrollment process.

Interview with Montgomery County Councilmember Natali Fani-González.

This week’s edition features Councilmember Natali Fani-González, who will discuss the More Housing N.O.W. Package. This proposal outlines five steps aimed at expanding the supply of housing, reducing costs, and increasing pathways to homeownership for the hardworking residents of Montgomery County. The More Housing N.O.W. Package was introduced on Tues., Feb. 4, and is sponsored by Councilmember Andrew Friedson, the chair of the Planning, Housing, and Parks Committee, along with Councilmember Natali Fani-González, the chair of the Economic Development Committee.

The radio show features special guest Councilmember Gabe Albornoz, who highlights county programs, including those established by 
the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to promote the well-being of Montgomery County residents. 

In light of recent changes at the federal level, the Councilmember reminds community members that county programs do not inquire about immigration status and encourages residents to call 3-1-1 for any questions. The 3-1-1 service offers assistance in more than 200 languages.

Interview with Ana Arriaza, Department of Environmental Protection.

This week’s edition features Montgomery County's Salt Wise Campaign. The Department of Environmental Protection urges residents to recognize the harmful effects of excessive salt use during winter weather. While road salt (sodium chloride) helps maintain safe roads, it can corrode concrete, harm wildlife and pets, damage plants, and contaminate local streams and drinking water. Mrs. Arriaza will provide important recommendations to address these issues.

Interview with Monika Hammer, communications and public outreach manager at Montgomery County Recreation.

This week's edition features Montgomery County Recreation's Summer Camp Registration, which begins on Tuesday, Jan. 21. Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025 RecAssist program, which provides eligible County residents with the opportunity to receive a scholarship for recreation programs. Once approved, eligible residents will receive $400 credited to their account. For more information about registration, please visit ActiveMontgomery.org or call the customer service team at 240-777-6840.

Luis Estrada, urban designer and planning coordinator at the Montgomery County Planning Department.

This week’s edition features Luis Estrada, urban designer and planning coordinator at the Montgomery County Planning Department. He will provide information about an upcoming community meeting conducted in Spanish, focusing on recommendations for the University Boulevard Corridor Plan. Mr. Estrada will share details about this virtual meeting, which is scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Residents must sign up to receive the virtual link on the day of the meeting by visiting montgomeryplanning.org

The radio edition will feature special guest Councilmember Fani-González who will provide an overview of her 2024 term. She will discuss her legislative accomplishments and the efforts her office has undertaken this year to enhance public safety in District 6, address fentanyl use among youth, and advocate for affordable housing in Montgomery County.

The radio show will feature special guest Councilmember Friedson, who will share details about the United in Service and Support Community Resource Fair. This free event hosted by the Montgomery County Council and the County Executive and will take place on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Rockville at the Executive Office Building. Councilmember Friedson will also highlight his recently concluded term as Council president and his legislative accomplishments during his presidency.

Leslie Martinez, program manager at Montgomery County Health Connections for the Montgomery County.

The radio show will focus on open enrollment for Maryland residents. From now until Jan. 15, 2025, you can explore and enroll in a 2025 health plan at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov. Ms. Martinez will share information about what's new for 2025, the health companies available for selection, and the steps to enroll. process and timeline for the plan, and efforts to engage the community.

Interview with Luis Estrada, urban designer and planning coordinator at the Montgomery County Planning Department.

The radio show will feature an update on the University Boulevard Corridor Plan (UBC). This plan aims to address community needs related to traffic safety, regional connectivity, environmental sustainability, corridor-focused growth and economic development. It explores opportunities for new development, bikeways, and bus rapid transit (BRT), as well as the creation of a complete street with wider sidewalks, comfortable public transportation stops and safe access. Mr. Estrada will discuss Montgomery Planning's preliminary recommendations, process and timeline for the plan, and efforts to engage the community.

Interview with Febe Huezo, outreach services specialist at the Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL).

The radio show will highlight information about the free English learning resources offered by Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL). MCPL invites the community to join upcoming Spanish language workshops at the Long Branch Public Library, scheduled for Nov. 12 and Dec. 17, both from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Interview with Mayra Cruz-Solis, civic engagement specialist and Hispanic outreach liaison for the Montgomery County Council.

The radio show will highlight the Council’s Latino Civic Project and the extraordinary career of Mayra Cruz-Solís, who is retiring after more than a decade of dedicated service at the Montgomery County Council.

Interview with Dr. Gilberto Zelaya, public information officer at the Montgomery County Board of Elections.

The radio show will feature the upcoming 2024 Presidential General Election. Voters have several options for casting their ballots: early voting, vote-by-mail, and in-person voting at their designated polling places on Election Day, which is Nov. 5. Early voting will occur from Oct. 24 through Oct. 31. If you are not registered to vote, all eligible Maryland residents can register at polling places during early voting and on Election Day.

Interview with Nora Morales, Program Director at Identity, Inc.

The radio show will feature Identity, Inc.'s substance abuse prevention program, which offers free counseling for Montgomery County families dealing with youth substance abuse. Professional assistance is provided to help young individuals overcome addiction through treatment, rehabilitation, and emotional support, regardless of immigration status or health insurance. For further details, please contact 301-272-4190.

Interview with Mariela Leon, Hispanic community liaison with the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD).

The radio show will feature information about "Cafecito con Mariela," a series of virtual coffee chats designed to create a welcoming and inclusive space for newcomers and new immigrants. The aim is to emphasize community safety and build trust with the Montgomery County Police Department.

Interview with Gianina Hasbun, community health worker certification coordinator.

The radio show will feature an interview with Ms. Hasbun, coordinator of the "Vías de la Salud" program at the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services. The program's mission is to provide health promotion interventions and enhance clients’ access to care, resources, and support services, improving the health and well-being of underserved communities.

Interview with Mariela Leon, Hispanic community liaison with the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD).

The radio show will feature a workshop series called "Voces Importantes: Mujer Valiosa y Única". In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, MCPD will host a workshop series that will consist of four sessions designed to empower women who have survived sexual violence, violent crimes or domestic violence. The workshops, led by Mariela Leon, will occur on Oct. 5, Oct. 12, and Oct. 19 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy, located at 8751 Snouffer School Rd. in Gaithersburg. The program will conclude with a fashion show on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 3 p.m. at the Montgomery County Police Department Headquarters at 100 Edison Park Dr. in Gaithersburg.

Interview with Councilmember Gabe Albornoz, who chairs the Council’s Health and Human Services Committee.

The radio show will feature a discussion with Councilmember Albornoz to discuss MC Groceries, a new groundbreaking initiative in Montgomery County aimed at increasing food security and addressing childhood hunger. The new program uses Instacart Health Fresh Funds to offer monthly stipends to nearly 600 Montgomery County families for online grocery shopping and delivery. This program allows families to choose their preferred retailer and select grocery items based on their unique tastes, budget, dietary and health needs, and cultural preferences. Councilmember Albornoz will share the eligibility criteria and registration process.

Interview with District 6 Councilmember Natali Fani-González.

The radio show will start with information about the Public Safety Town Hall organized by Councilmember Fani-González. The event is aimed at providing community members with an opportunity to express their concerns and suggestions for enhancing safety and the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Members of the Maryland House of Delegates representing Districts 18 and 19 will also participate in the meeting. The Public Safety Town Hall will occur on Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Wheaton Library.