Alumni Notices and Announcements: 2006 New York Theater Trip announced; spring Retirees Luncheon scheduled; MC couples sought for forthcoming article; association membership and chapter information; more.

Alumni Giving and Volunteer Opportunities: Scholarship spotlight on Rockville Campus 40th Anniversary Fund; volunteering and mentoring opportunities.

Athletics and Sports: Men's and women's campus sports schedules have been posted for spring.

Exhibits: Panoramic photography through Apr. 7 at Rockville; Sculptures for Forest Glen bridge project opens Apr. 3 at Takoma Park/Silver Spring; Willi Singleton pottery lecture and demonstration Apr. 5 at Takoma Park/Silver Spring; "West Meets East" contemporary pottery show, through Apr. 7 at Rockville; "Portraits of Life" exhibit, through Apr. 9 at JCC Rockville, and through Apr. 13 in Baltimore.

Performances: "Heaven" at PAC, Apr. 19-22; Music laser light show Apr. 22 at Takoma Park/Silver Spring; Spring dance concert Apr. 28-30 at PAC.

Programs for Future Alumni: Expanding Horizons for grades 6-8, Apr. 8 at Rockville; Enrollment Fair Apr. 11 at Rockville; sign up your kids now for school age summer camp; new junior tennis program announced for Rockville.

Community Events: Jefferson Cafes and Paul Peck Institute schedule; Mqah Thaqafi series includes multiple events celebrating Arab American Heritage Month; Wellness Fair Apr. 6 at Rockville; Dr. Harry Harden Black and African American Academic Awards Apr. 7; adult re-entry program for prospective returning students Apr. 11 at Rockville; Macklin Distinguished Lecture Apr. 12 at Rockville; Financial issues workshop Apr. 26 at Takoma Park/Silver Spring; more.

Lifelong Learning and Continuing Education: Study-Travel in Italian Cinema and Mediterranean Culture announced for summer 2006.

Future Events at the College: Mark your calendar for special activities later in the spring semester.

College Resources: General information and job opportunities at Montgomery College.

Click on any of the links below for additional information.

ALUMNI NOTICES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

You heard it here first!  The Alumni Association's ninth annual New York City Theatre Trip, Saturday, November 11 through Monday, November 13, 2006, will feature two fabulous new Broadway shows!  We'll attend the Saturday night performance of The Color Purple. Alice Walker's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is now a soul-stirring musical featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, and blues with music and lyrics by Grammy Award winners Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray. Then, on Sunday afternoon, we will see Jersey Boys. It's the story of how a group of blue-collar boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time—Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Trip cost is $625* per person, based on double occupancy (for a single room, add $120). This includes a pre-trip lecture on "New York and the Theatre," transportation, accommodations for two nights at the Novotel Hotel, and attendance at these two Broadway shows. Meals are not included.

Reservations and a deposit of $300 per person are due by June 15, with the balance of $325 due by August 15. A reservation form may be found online at www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/nyc_trip/2006_NYC_Theatre_Trip.doc (MS-Word) or www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/nyc_trip/2006_NYC_Theatre_Trip.pdf (PDF format). Please print out and complete the form, and send it with your deposit to the MC Alumni Association, 900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville, MD  20850. Spaces are limited and are available on a first-come basis. This event always sells out, so reserve quickly! The Association cannot reserve space without a deposit. Absolutely no refunds on show tickets or transportation costs. Hotel costs not refundable after November 1, 2006. For information, call Bernice Grossman, 240-567-5378, or e-mail bernice.grossman@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Retirees Chapter hosts the Spring Retirees Luncheon for long-time College employees past and present, 11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 20, at the New Fortune restaurant, Gaithersburg.  To reserve space at the luncheon, contact the Alumni Office, 240-567-5378, or e-mail alumni@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Rockville alumni: Thanks for your support!  Tickets are sold out for the 40th Anniversary Gala, celebrating four decades of MC's Rockville Campus, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, 5701 Marinelli Road, North Bethesda. We'll honor Dr. Donald K. Day, the Latino Student Union, Ms. Patricia E. Lopez, the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, and the Honorable Michael L. Subin, and support the Rockville Campus 40th Anniversary Fund. Even though tickets are gone, additional scholarship donations welcomed. You can still send a check payable to the Montgomery College Foundation to the Rockville Campus 40th Anniversary Fund, 900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville MD 20850.  For information, call Carrie Hurd, 240-567-4028, or e-mail carrie.hurd@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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More for Rockville alumni: Even if you can't make the 40th Anniversary Gala, you might want to stop by to give your best wishes to Florence Ashby, who is celebrating 40 years with her retirement party, 3 p.m. Sunday, April 2, in the Theatre Arts Arena.  To help defray costs, a contribution of $10 per person (payable to Clare Delaney) will be appreciated.  R.s.v.p. to Clare Delaney, 240-567-5194, in whatever time remains before the party.  Additionally, you may wish to consider a contribution to the Florence Muriel Ashby Endowment (honoring Flo's mother), which benefits the Mathematics Department. Contributions to the endowment may be made to the Montgomery College Foundation, 900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville, MD 20850.

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Show your support for MC in a letter! As the College moves ahead with improvements to the Rockville science buildings, the design of Takoma Park/Silver Spring's cultural arts center, and the development of Germantown's biosciences program, Association members in Maryland are asked to express their support for MC's capital and operating funding requests as they move through the county and state budget processes. If you're willing to help on sometimes short notice with a letter, a fax, an e-mail, or a phone call to your elected officials, please let us know. If you're a new Alumni Association member, you can check the volunteer box on your membership form for speaking to state and county officials, or "legislative advocacy." Current members may e-mail the alumni office, alumni@montgomerycollege.edu, or phone 240-567-5378. Your letters of support really do make a difference!

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MC couples wanted! For a forthcoming issue of Insights magazine, we're looking for couples who both attended MC. Did you meet here, or later? If you're part of an alumni couple, please e-mail us with your story about how you met, and tell us if Montgomery College is what brought you together! Send the details to Jessica Warnick, jessica.warnick@montgomerycollege.edu, or write to the Alumni Office, 900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville, MD 20850.

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Membership in the Alumni Association is FREE to graduates, former students and College retirees. Association members are eligible for reduced rates on various car rentals and hotel stays, as well as insurance! For a full list of membership benefits, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/benefits.html. For general information about the Alumni Association, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni. For a listing of Alumni Office staff, go to: www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/alumnistaff.html

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If you think your address may not be correct in the Alumni Association's records, or on your copy of the Fall 2005 edition of Insights magazine, please e-mail the Alumni Office with your correct information. (If you're planning to take future classes at MC, please note that the Registrar may require an address update form, but this is not necessary for those who just wish to maintain their contact with the Alumni Association.) To view past issues of our award-winning magazine, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/insights.

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Alumni Association welcomes new chapters. Alumni from the Nursing and Engineering programs have formed steering committees to activate Alumni Association Chapters for those majors. We are exploring chapter development for alumni of other programs as well. If you are interested in suggesting activities or programs for any of the following chapters, please contact Jill Irey, acting chapter coordinator, 240-567-7293, or e-mail jill.irey@montgomerycollege.edu.

- The MC Retirees chapter is planning the annual spring Retirees Luncheon April 20. Watch for further information. To reserve a seat, e-mail alumni@montgomerycollege.edu.

- Nursing alumni have formed a steering committee.

- Engineering alumni have formed a steering committee.

- Interior Design, Macklin Business Institute, and Management of Construction representatives have expressed interest in forming chapters, and these are under exploration with the Alumni Office.

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Now you can give distinctive gifts -- or just impress your guests -- while showing your support for Montgomery College's future growth! A special selection of custom-labeled, specially named Montgomery College Alumni Association Wines is available from Elk Run Vineyards, which donates a portion of the proceeds from each sale of Alumni Association Wines to the Association's programs and scholarships. Featured varieties include Knight's Cheer Merlot, Shepherd's Blush, Germantown Riesling, Sonny Clogg Chardonnay, Sweet Charlene red dessert wine, and Sarilla white vin de jus glace. Currently, you may purchase these brands at the vineyard in Mt. Airy, MD, or order by phone at 800-414‑2513.

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Bob and Jane Hydorn will co-captain an Alumni Association team in the Relay for Life, an overnight event to celebrate survivorship and raise money to help those who have been touched by cancer. Teams take turns walking or running laps, with at least one team member on the track at all times. The Rockville relay will be held Saturday and Sunday, June 10-11 at the Rockville Campus athletic field. Past years' involvement has included a Math Department team and support from the Rockville Kiwanis. This year's honorary chair is Dr. Sylvia Crowder, chair of MC's Board of Trustees. Join the Alumni Association team for $10, and recruit family and friends as sponsors. For information, contact the Alumni Office, 240-567-5378, or e-mail alumni@montgomerycollege.edu.

ALUMNI GIVING AND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Montgomery College has partnered with the Montgomery County Public Schools, Health and Human Services department, Childlink, the Up-County Regional Center, Lockheed Martin, and others to sponsor the Month of the Young Child in April in Montgomery County. The coalition is co-sponsoring a family events to be held in Westfield Mall Wheaton Plaza, April 22.  Volunteers are needed on that date for hands-on volunteering, giving directions to people, stuffing visitor packages, and assisting in a variety of ways on-site. Volunteers are needed in hour blocks of time from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those wishing to volunteer for this event are invited to contact Maxine Coven, maxine_coven@mcpsmd.org. For information, contact Lucy Vitaliti, lucy.vitaliti@montgomerycollege.edu.

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There are several opportunities for you to help students who depend on scholarship support to pursue their education. Your gift can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of Montgomery College students. Here are a few of the ways you can help the College in its mission of changing lives.

The College relies on alumni and friends to show their support by donating to the Annual Fund – designed to raise critically needed funding for immediate use. We're counting on you: Only with the help of our alumni will we be able to raise the funding needed for scholarships, programs, new technology and equipment for our classrooms. Visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/giving to find out more, then make your tax-deductible donation to the Annual Fund today at https://ssb.montgomerycollege.edu/pls/eagle/hzskpldg.p_vt_giving.

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The Montgomery College Foundation seeks to assist students with the cost of books, supplies, and other critical needs, through scholarships and other donated funds. Persons wishing to make a gift to support this effort are asked to contact the Montgomery College Foundation at 240-567-7491. Gifts can also be made online by visiting www.montgomerycollege.edu/giving.

The Montgomery College Foundation has launched Foundation Focus, a quarterly newsletter showing how members of the College community are helping to change the lives of MC students, faculty, and others through their philanthropy and volunteer efforts.  Read about new scholarships and opportunities created in recent weeks. The newsletter will be distributed to Foundation donors and MC faculty and staff.

For more information on the Montgomery College Foundation, please contact Carrie Hurd (Annual Gifts) at 240-567-4028 or Kayran Moore (Major Gifts) at 240-567-7493.

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Scholarship Spotlight:  Even if you didn't get a seat at the Rockville Campus's 40th Anniversary gala celebration, you can still honor the past and support the future of the campus through a contribution to the Rockville Campus 40th Anniversary Fund.  This fund will help students through scholarships, books, and learning opportunities. Please consider making a check payable to the Montgomery College Foundation for the Rockville Campus 40th Anniversary Fund, 900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville MD 20850.  For information, call Carrie Hurd, 240-567-4028, or e-mail carrie.hurd@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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Mentoring Opportunities: Do you want to make a difference in the lives and future of young people? Do you want to help students tackle the challenges and reap the rewards of achieving success in college? Do you want to promote the benefits of learning? If your answer to the above questions is an enthusiastic "yes," then you could be a Montgomery College student mentor. You can have a significant effect on a student's academic and personal development. You can help improve their grades, be a role model, and help set goals and targets. You can help students explore their interests and make informed educational and career decisions. Being a mentor is a way to contribute to the education and training of the next generation. It's a wonderful opportunity to engage directly with current students, become more involved with Montgomery College, and improve your own mentoring skills in the process. To learn more or to volunteer, please call the Lifelong Learning Institute at 240-567-7879. 

Takoma Park/Silver Spring Student Development seeks both international and American alumni to participate as mentors in the International Buddy Program. The program provides a working relationship between current international students and past students who have either graduated or transferred from Montgomery College. Adjustment to a new community may be difficult, especially if there is a difference in language and culture. The International Buddy Program can help ease the transitional phase and help students adjust to the social, academic and cultural environment at Montgomery College. The primary mode of communication will be e-mail. For more information or to volunteer, contact Dr. Harold Barber or Eniola Olowofoyeku at 240-567-1480, or e-mail harold.barber@montgomerycollege.edu or eniola.olowofoyeku.@montgomerycollege.edu

If you have a country or major of study mentor/mentee preference, please indicate that in your e‑mail.

ATHLETICS AND SPORTS

Spring semester schedules for Baseball, Softball, Lacrosse, Golf, and Tennis are posted on the College's online calendar.  Please be sure to check the listings for your favorite sport!

For more information, contact the Athletics Department at each campus, or visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/athletics/.

EXHIBITS

Rockville Art Department presents West Meets East: A Contemporary Pottery Show, now through April 7 in the Gallery of the Paul Peck Art Building, Rockville Campus. Opening reception 5 p.m. Monday, March 6. Admission free. For information, contact the Art Department, 240-567-5115.

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The Maryland Humanities Council hosts MC's photography exhibition Portraits of Life, the College's documentary photography exhibit of Holocaust survivors in and around Montgomery County, now through April 13 at 108 West Center Street, Baltimore.  Admission free. For information, call 410-685-0095, or e-mail jwortman@mdhc.org. Portraits of Life is a Montgomery College project designed to foster tolerance, reflection on the collective community, and dialogues focused on understanding and reconciliation. A companion exhibit appears now through April 9 at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, 6125 Montrose Road, Rockville; for information, call 301-348-3773.

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CAT presents an exhibition of panoramic photography, now through April 7 at the CAT Gallery, Technical Center, Rockville Campus. Artists' reception 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 5. Admission free. For information, call 240-567-7521.

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Takoma Park/Silver Spring Art Department presents Sculptures for the Forest Glen Pedestrian Bridge Project, a lecture by Raya Bodnarchuk, 1 p.m. Monday, April 3, in the Student Lounge, The Commons, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Opening reception for an exhibit of Bodnarchuk's drawing and maquettes of sculptures for the Forest Glen Pedestrian Bridge project in Silver Spring will follow at 2 p.m. in the Gallery, Pavilion of Fine Arts. Admission free.  For information, contact Mary Staley, 240-567-1374, or e-mail mary.staley@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Visual, Performing, & Communication Arts department and the Arts Institute present a lecture by potter Willi Singleton, 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, in the Ceramics Studio, Room 105, Pavilion of Fine Arts, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Demonstration follows at 1 p.m. Admission free.

 

PERFORMANCES

Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center presents "Heaven," 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, April 19-22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 23, at the Performing Arts Center, Rockville. Written by George F. Walker, "Heaven" follows the lives of people who aren't exactly the types anyone would want to spend five minutes with, much less an eternity. Far from religious or preachy, this play is an amusing and provocative dark comedy that takes a frank look at race and religion. It is built on the observation that people may believe in an afterlife with all of the perks, but it does not make them treat each other any better while on earth.

Tickets $10; $8 with your Alumni Association membership card. Wednesday evening performances are previews. For information, contact the PAC box office, 240-567-5301, or email boffice@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Planetarium presents a Music Laser Light Show, 8 p.m. Saturday, April 22, in the Planetarium (Room 130) Science South, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Featured performer: Rupert Chappelle, synthesizer, theremin, and vocals. For information, contact Harold Williams, 240-567-1463, or e-mail harold.williams@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Rockville Campus Dance Company presents a Spring Dance Concert, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 28 and 29, and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 30, at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville. MC's dance company continues its annual tradition with a program of exciting and original dance works by students and faculty, as well as Washington area choreographers. Audiences will be treated to a diverse showcase of ballet, jazz, and tap. Tickets $10, $8 with your Alumni Association membership card. For information, contact the PAC Box Office, 240-567-5301, or e-mail boffice@montgomerycollege.edu.

PROGRAMS FOR FUTURE ALUMNI

WDCE presents Expanding Horizons, 9 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. Saturday, April 8, at the Rockville Campus. This one-day enrichment program for students in grades 4 and 5 offers workshops that explore topics outside of the regular school curriculum and provides opportunities for students to meet other students with similar interests. For information, contact Sharon Wolfgang, 240-567-7264, or e-mail sharon.wolfgang@montgomerycollege.edu. For more information about the College's youth programs, visit http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/youth.

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Rockville Campus presents an Enrollment Fair, 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, in the Theatre Arts Arena. The fair will provide prospective students with the opportunity to get an early start on their enrollment and find answers to questions about Montgomery College. Representatives from admissions, financial aid, counseling and advising, and disability support services will be available to talk one-on-one. There will also be information about athletics, student organizations and the bookstore. Faculty from several academic departments will be on hand to answer questions. Parents and friends of prospective students are welcome to attend. Light refreshments and door prizes will be provided. Admission free; prospective students are asked to call ahead to reserve space. To register or receive more information, call 240-567-5039, or e-mail maria.davidson@montgomerycollege.edu.

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It's time to register your 6- to 11-year-olds for Montgomery College Child Care Services' spectacular School Age Summer Camp.  Held on MC's Rockville Campus, school age summer camp features swimming and water fun, arts and crafts, science, sports, community field trips, and MORE! Register by the week from June 12 through August 18.  Hours are 7:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Summer camp registration brochures are available at http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/childcare.  Click on "School Age Summer Camp."  For information, contact Linda M. Randall, 240-567-7672, or e-mail linda.randall@montgomerycollege.edu.

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MC Varsity Coach Bob Finney announces Top Seed Tennis Camp, a new junior tennis program this summer at the Rockville Campus. The program is open to juniors between ages 7 and 16 at all skill and experience levels. The program is headed by Coach Finney and Whitley Park Tennis Director Richard McMichael, both USPTA & USPTR certified professionals. The camp emphasizes sportsmanship and the low teacher/student ratio ensures plenty of personal instruction reinforced by structured practice activities. Eight sessions available; starting dates are June 19 and 26; July 10, 17, and 24, and August 7, 14, and 21. The full day option 9 a.m. to 4 p.m; campers may bring their own lunch or purchase it on campus at the MC snack bar. Half day options 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; lunch not included. Tuition for Maryland residents $250 for the full day option, $150 for the half day option. To print out an application form, visit http://www.rpmtennis.com. For information, contact Richard McMichael, 301-530-6701or e-mail rpmtennis@comcast.net.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

 Paul Peck Institute for American Culture and Civic Engagement presents Jefferson Cafes(TM) in April. Jefferson Cafes feature coffee, dessert, and engaging conversation based on a brief reading, done in advance, on a topic in American life and culture. Admission free, but attendance is limited and pre-registration is required.

- Tuesday, April 4, 11 a.m.-12 noon.  Long Branch Community Center, 8700 Piney Branch Road, Silver Spring.  Topic:  National Poetry Month:  Celebrating American Poets.  To register, contact Lola Skolnik or Levora President, 301-431-5708, or e-mail lola.skolnik@montgomerycountymd.gov.     

- Monday, April 10, 3:30-5 p.m.  Room 127 Humanities, Rockville Campus.  Topic:  An Alternative View of History. Reading:  from The Irony of American History, by Reinhold Niebuhr.  To register, contact Dr. Lee Annis, 240-567-7281, or e-mail lee.annis@montgomerycollege.edu.

 - Monday, April 17, 2-3:30 p.m.  OASIS (at Lord & Taylor), Gaithersburg.  Topic:  America and Freedom in the Global Age.  Reading:  "Who Are Americans to Think That Freedom Is Theirs to Spread?" by Michael Ignatieff. To register, contact Marcy Drozdowicz, 301-869-1508, or e-mail marcy.oasis@verizon.net.

 - Jefferson Cafe™ for AELP Students, Tuesday, April 18, 2:45-4 p.m.  Macklin Tower 212-213, Rockville Campus.  Topic:  Understanding and Adjusting to Life in the United States, a discussion for students enrolled in the American English Language Program. To register, contact Prof. David Lott, 240-567-7413, or e-mail david.lott@montgomerycollege.edu.

 - Wednesday, April 26, 1-2:30 p.m. Rockville Senior Center, 1150 Carnation Drive, Rockville.   Topic:  The Women's Suffrage Movement.  Reading:  from Founding Sisters and the 19^th Amendment, by Eleanor Clift.   To register, contact Christine Veirs, 240-314-8823, or e-mail cveirs@rockvillemd.gov.

 Please sign up early, because the Cafes fill quickly. To reserve a seat and obtain a copy of the advance readings, contact Francine Jamin, 240-567-1385, or e-mail francine.jamin@montgomerycollege.edu. For information about the Paul Peck Institute or the Jefferson Cafes, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/Departments/americanculture.

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Montgomery College Book Discussion Group meets 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 3, in the conference room in 212 Macklin Tower, Rockville Campus. Participants will discuss Small Island by Andrea Levy, winner of the 2004 Orange Prize for Fiction, the Whitbread Book of the Year Award, and the Commonwealth Writers' Prize. Admission free. The group is co-sponsored by the International Education Program, the Women's Studies Program, and the Center for Teaching and Learning. For information, contact Dr. Gail Forman, 240-567-7443, or e-mail gail.forman@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Montgomery College Libraries present Put It in Writing @ Your Library®, 12 noon Tuesday, April 4, in Room 224, Gudelsky Institute for Technical Education, Rockville Campus. Woman's Day writer Stacey Colino will lead a two-hour session on how to get published in a magazine, drawing from her own experiences and specialties. The event also features librarians who will talk about the wide variety of resources available in libraries to help writers break into the business, such as taking a class, surfing the Web or utilizing the Writer's Manual, which lists the latest publishing houses and gives tips on submitting manuscripts. Sponsored by the American Library Association and Woman's Day magazine, the seminar is part of a national program to teach tomorrow's writers and to increase awareness of the resources available at libraries.  Admission free. To register, contact Joyce Gray, 240-567-7915, or e-mail joyce.gray@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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Paul Peck Institute for American Culture and Civic Engagement presents Poet's Corner: A Conversation with Maryland's Poet Laureate, 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, in Room 222 (2nd floor auditorium), Health Sciences Center, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. In an interactive presentation, Dr. Michael S. Glaser, Maryland's Poet Laureate, invites you to read new poems and old favorites, to link poetry with art and the natural world, and to discover the power of poetry to explore the human experience. In this way, Glaser aims to engage his audience in reading, writing, and listening to poetry. Glaser will be introduced by Don Berger, the Poet Laureate of Takoma Park. This presentation, scheduled in celebration of National Poetry Month, is co-sponsored by the Maryland Humanities Council. Admission free. For information, contact Francine Jamin, 240-567-1385, or email francine.jamin@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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Mqah Thaqafi series presents A Taste of Egypt, a lecture by food writer Amy Riolo, 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, in the Faculty/Staff Dining Room, Rockville Campus.  7,000 years of history and three world religions at the heart of one cuisine. Refreshments will be served. Admission free. .  For information, contact Enas Elhanafi, 240-567-1759, or e-mail enas.elhanafi@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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Healthy Campus Program and Fire Science and Emergency Services Program present the Annual Health and Wellness Fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, April 6, in the Main Gym, PE Center, Rockville Campus.  Includes a blood drive conducted by Inova Blood Donor Services. For information, contact Kathleen M. Dayton, 240-567-7580, or e-mail kathleen.dayton@montgomerycollege.edu.

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International Education Program presents Learning Cultures Through Global Food Sampling, 2 p.m. Thursday, April 6, in the Student Lounge, Commons Building, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Learn about study abroad and globalization at Montgomery College through food, dance, videos and more. Admission free. For information, contact Ijeoma Otigbuo, 240-567-1411 or e-mail  ijeoma.otigbuo@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Montogmery College presents the Dr. Harry Harden Black and African American Academic Awards Ceremony Program, 2 p.m. Friday, April 7, in Globe Hall, High-Tech Building, Germantown Campus. Admission free. Reception will immediately follow. For information, contact Yvonne Stephens, 240-567-7772, or e-mail yvonne.stephens@montgomerycollege.edu.

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International Education Program TheatreCafe Series presents an authentic dinner of middle eastern dishes and a screening of Terrorism and the Kebab, 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 7, in the Faculty/Staff Dining Room, Campus Center Building, Rockville Campus. Dinner prepared by Mediterranean Bakery/Fettoosh Restaurant, followed by 121-minute comedy film in Arabic with English subtitles. Dinner $15 per person; includes food and non-alcoholic beverages. Film screening is free. Seating is limited.  Please reserve by April 4. Make checks payable to Montgomery College TheatreCafe and send to Professor Gail Forman, Montgomery College, Rockville, MD 20850.  For information, contact Gail Forman, 240-567-7443, or e-mail gail.forman@montgomerycollege.edu.   

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Adult Re Entry Pilot Program presents No Goals, No Glory! 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, Rooms 108 and 126 Humanities, Rockville Campus.  Learn how to balance demands of your education, career, and financial goals. Michelle Glassburn, president of Eleve Group, will give simple planning techniques. A light supper will be served. For information, contact Barbara Gleason, 240/567-5135, or e-mail barbara.gleason@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Planetarium presents Navigating Uncertainties, an interdisciplinary colloquium, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, Room 122 Health Science Building, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus (NOT at the Planetarium). Theologians, educators, philosophers, artists, political scientist, physical scientist, and mathematicians will discuss: "How do you discover and correct errors in your beliefs?" Scheduled panelists include Dr. Duncan McIntosh, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Silver Spring and former seminary professor; Dr. Robert Shoenberg, education consultant, former English professor, and trustee of Montgomery College; Karl Smith, professor of Social Sciences, Montgomery College; and Dr. Harold Williams, astrophysicist and professor of astronomy and mathematics, Montgomery College. We will use a wireless microphone so anyone in the room can participate or ask questions of the panelists. Admission free. For information, contact Harold Williams, 240-567-1463, or e-mail harold.williams@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Paul Peck Institute for American Culture and Civic Engagement hosts the Montgomery County League of Women Voters monthly meeting, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 11, in Room 202, Resource Center, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus.  Discussion topic: State Election Process Update:  A LWV-MD Study.  Admission free. For more information, contact Barbara Sanders, 301-587-1323, or e-mail bsanders@TerpAlum.umd.edu.

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The Gathering presents "Bombers, Bellydancers, Billionaires: Arabs and Muslims in American Popular Culture," 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, in the Faculty/Staff Dining Room, Campus Center, Rockville Campus. Lecture panel with Dr. Nader Ayish, a multicultural and multilingual education instructor in Fairfax County, Virginia; and Zeina Azzam Seikaly, outreach coordinator, Center for Contemporary Arab Studies, Georgetown University. Admission free.  For information, contact Enas Elhanafi, 240-567-1759, or e-mail enas.elhanafi@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Macklin Business Institute Distinguished Lecture Series presents Leadership in the Media Industry: TV That Matters, with Discovery Communications president and CEO Judith A. McHale, 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, in the Theatre Arts Arena, Rockville Campus. Under McHale's leadership, Discovery Communications, Inc. has grown from its core property, the Discovery Channel, to become the leading global real-world media and entertainment company. Since 2000, the Macklin Distinguished Lecture Series has presented industry leaders and business experts at Montgomery College. Macklin students participate in these seminars as part of their curriculum focus. Topics vary depending on current business issues. Past events have focused on global marketplace priorities, ethics in business, information technology concerns and markets, and biotechnology. Admission free. Please arrive early due to limited seating. For information, contact the Macklin Business Institute, 240-567-1707, or e-mail stephen.lang@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Spectrum Lecture Series presents NASA's Dr. Claire Parkinson, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 12, in Globe Hall, High Technology and Science Center, Germantown Campus. Parkinson, a climatologist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, will summarize what is currently understood about the Earth's sea ice covers, their environmental significance, the changes they are undergoing, and their connection to the rest of the earth's climate system. In recent decades, concerns raised about global climate change and its consequences, including the polar sea ice in both Arctic and Antarctic. These ice covers have huge impacts on the climate and ecosystems of both regions; the life cycles of polar bears, penguins, human and vast numbers of other plant and animal life forms living in those regions are profoundly affected by the covers and the changes occurring in them. The Spectrum Lectures are designed for a non-scientific audience, enabling scientists, students, and the community to learn about ground-breaking advancements in science. Admission free. For information, contact Robert Coley, 240-567-7798, or e-mail robert.corley@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Planetarium presents Space-time Invariance and Quantum Gravity, 7 p.m. Saturday, April 15, in the Planetarium (Room 130), Science South, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Discover the smallest distances and times measurable and how the universe is pixelated. Learn about Space-time Invariance and Quantum Gravity. What significance does using Discrete Numbers (there is a smallest or shortest quantity) versus Real Numbers (where there is no smallest or shortest quantity) to measure length and time have in the observable universe. Is it time to abandon the Real Numbers in describing space-time? Does it even make sense to talk about time travel? Admission free. For information, contact Harold Williams, 240-567-1463, or e-mail harold.williams@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Mqah Thaqafi series presents Women in the Arab World, a lecture by Dr. Afaf Mahfouz, 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 18, Room 136 Technical Center, Rockville Campus. Mahfouz is former president of the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Consultative Relationship with the UN and current chair of the Committee of the UN International Psychoanalytic Association. Admission free. For information, contact Gail Forman, 240-567-7443, or e-mail gail.forman@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Mental Health Program presents the 2006 Annual Trends Workshop, 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, in the First Floor Lecture Hall (Room 122), Health Science Center, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Two main topics: What Is Hypnosis? and Storytelling Therapy.  Admission free.  For information, contact Jeff Chuang, 240-567-1697, or e-mail tsung.chuang@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Paul Peck Humanities Institute presents author Marilyn Kallet, 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, in Room 216 High Technology and Science Center, Germantown Campus. Appearing as part of the "Books and Ideas" series, Kallet is the author of 11 books, including "Circe", "After Hours", poetry from BkMk Press of University of Missouri/KC, and "The Art of College Teaching: 28 Takes" (co-edited with April Morgan), University of Tennessee Press. Admission free.  For information, contact Judith Gaines, 240-567-7452, or e-mail Judith.gaines@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Montgomery College and the Montgomery County Public Schools present an Entrepreneurship Expo, 8 a.m. Saturday, April 22, in Globe Hall, Germantown Campus. Features keynote speaker Barry Moltz, a panel discussion with successful local entrepreneurs, and the 2nd Annual Montgomery College Student Business Plan Competition. Admission free. For information, contact Nancy Nuell, 240-567-7958, or e-mail nancy.nuell@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Mqah Thaqafi series presents Arabic Calligraphy and Music of Arabia, lecture and performance, 12 noon Tuesday, April 25, on the Rockville Campus. Part I: Mr. Mohamed Zakariya, calligrapher - a well-known Calligrapher and designer of "Eid/Greeting" stamp for the US Postal services. Part II: Music of Arabia Seifed-Din Shehadeh Abdoun, Oud violin player. Admission free. For information and location, contact Enas Elhanafi, 240-567-1759, or e-mail enas.elhanafi@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Mqah Thaqafi series presents Edward Said on Orientalism, film and discussion, 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, Room 105 Science West, Rockville Campus. Discussion led by Dr. Aram Hessami. Admission free. For information, contact Enas Elhanafi, 240-567-1759, or e-mail enas.elhanafi@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Global Connections presents Financial Issues Information Session, Part II, 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 26, in the Student Lounge, the Commons, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. This session will explain how to read your credit score/rating, how it will affect you, and how to maintain good credit. In addition, related issues such as identity theft will be discussed. Admission free. For information, contact Dr. Harold Barber or Eniola Olowofoyeku, 240-567-1480, or e-mail eniola.olowofoyeku@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Mqah Thaqafi series and Planetarium present Astrolabes in Islam, a lecture by Dr. Harold Williams, 12 noon Friday, April 28, in the Planetarium, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. An instrument with a past and a future, the astrolabe is an ancient astronomical computer for solving problems relating to time and the position of the Sun and stars in the sky. Admission free. For information, contact Enas Elhanafi, 240-567-1759, or e-mail enas.elhanafi@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Germantown Campus Student Life and Caribbean Rootz Club present the second annual International Fashion Show, 7 p.m. Friday, April 28, in Globe Hall, Germantown Campus. Fashion show features different attires from different countries, with student dance performances. Admission $6 per person (free for ages 10 and younger); proceeds go toward the Faith Mission Church of God After School program in Jamaica. For information, contact Sean Smith, 240-567-7840, or e-mail caribbeanrootz@yahoo.com.

 LIFELONG LEARNING AND CONTINUING EDUCATION

 International Education, Foreign Language, and Architecture departments present La Dolce Vita in Italia: Study-Travel in Italian Cinema and Mediterranean Culture, June 30 through July 14, 2006. Italian instructors lead seminars about the world's most celebrated people and culture; expeditions to historic cities and jaw-dropping arts' communities in the mountainside. Itinerary includes three days in Rome, full day in Florence, day in Citta della Pieve (City of Art), half days in Assisi, Chiusi, Perugia, and Orvieto. Program cost $2,999 based on double-occupancy; single supplement $470.00 (additional).  Cost includes airfare, private shuttle for transfer to/from Fiumcinco airport and Chiusi railway, Rental of studio plus all institute facilities, breakfast meals, accommodations in 3-star hotels, workshops in television and film production, Mediterranean Culture course, emergency health insurance, porterage of luggage (1 bag per person), and English speaking assistance for airport transfers on arrival and departure. Applications available at "Future Travel" section, http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/departments/internationaleducation. Limited spaces. For information, contact Greg Malveaux, 240-567-7197, or e-mail greg.malveaux@montgomerycollege.edu.

***** And Mark Your Calendar for These Upcoming Events in May ***** 

Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center presents The Seldom Scene, 8 p.m. Friday, May 5, at the Performing Arts Center, Rockville. The Seldom Scene returns to the Performing Arts Center for another fantastic performance. The Seldom Scene is regarded as one of the most progressive bands in bluegrass and one of the finest acts in the whole genre. Through skilled insight and an urban approach to bluegrass, the Seldom Scene has become one of the most influential bluegrass bands of the last 30 years. The current Seldom Scene lineup includes Ben Eldridge, Dudley Connell, Ronnie Simpkins, Fred Travers, and Lou Reid. Tickets $26; $24 with your Alumni Association membership card. For information, contact the PAC box office, 240-567-5301, or email boffice@montgomerycollege.edu.

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WDCE presents Saturday Discoveries, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at the Germantown Campus. This one-day enrichment program for students in grades 6-8 offers workshops that explore topics outside of the regular school curriculum and provides opportunities for students to meet other students with similar interests. For information, contact Sharon Wolfgang, 240-567-7264, or e-mail sharon.wolfgang@montgomerycollege.edu. For more information about the College's youth programs, visit http://www.montgomerycollege.edu/youth.

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Rockville Campus presents the Annual Honor Awards Convocation, 4 p.m. Monday, May 15, in the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center, Rockville.

The campus's Annual academic awards program features the Phi Theta Kappa initiation ceremony, as well as departmental, Honors Program, Women's Studies, and Paul Peck Humanities Institute awards, followed by the presentation of the Presidential Apprenticeship Scholar and the Presidential Scholar Award. Admission free. For information, contact Jacki Moffi, 240-567-5020, or e-mail Jacki.Moffi@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Montgomery College presents the Annual Faculty/Staff Retirement Reception, 1:30 p.m. Monday, May 15, Room 100 Science North, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus.

 This annual event recognizes College employees retiring during the current academic year. Admission free. For information, contact Stacey D. Miller, 240-567-4006, or e-mail events@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Montgomery College's Annual Commencement, held under a cathedral-size tent on the Rockville Campus athletic field, begins 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 17. Attendance is limited. For information, contact Susan Sullivan, 240-567-7489, or e-mail Susan.Sullivan@Montgomerycollege.edu.

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Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center presents RAMONA QUIMBY - A TheatreworksUSA Presentation, 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, at the Performing Arts Center, Rockville. Hold onto your hats as Ramona Quimby takes you on her wacky adventures at home and at school. Ramona's older sister Beezus is a pain, her Aunt Bea may marry a dork, and her dad just lost his job. Ramona even thinks that her teacher hates her. What's a girl to do? Written by Newbery Award-winning writer Beverly Cleary, Ramona Quimby is about an exasperating but lovable third-grader who faces the challenges of growing up. Ramona's life is no picnic, but with the help of her loving and patient family and friends, she tackles every situation with enough enthusiasm that she'll have the audiences laughing and cheering her on. While intended to tickle the funny bone, the play also includes issues that touch on the lives of real families. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Tickets $7 regular, $6 seniors, students and with your Alumni Association membership card. For information, contact the PAC box office, 240-567-5301, or e-mail boffice@montgomerycollege.edu.

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Planetarium presents The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, 7 p.m. Saturday, May 20, in the Planetarium (Room 130), Science South, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. Discover how you can help look for E.T. using your computer at home, and how it all is tied together. Since Marconi invented the radio transmitter in 1897 and we began sending radio messages, we have been announcing our presence to any technologically advanced civilizations in the cosmos. How likely is it that we have been heard? How likely is it that we have been visited after (or before) we started radio broadcasts, which go out to all of space? How would we go about listening for extra-terrestrial intelligence? What are we doing now about searching for it? Admission free. For information, contact Harold Williams, 240-567-1463, or e-mail harold.williams@montgomerycollege.edu.

 Pollen happens! Always call ahead to confirm events.

To request accommodations for a disability, please notify the sponsoring office or contact person two weeks before the event.

 RESOURCES

 We'd like your feedback about our electronic newsletter or other Alumni Association services! To make your opinion known, e-mail alumni@montgomerycollege.edu.

 For more information on Montgomery College, check out MC's website, http://www.montgomerycollege.edu

 For facts about Montgomery College, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/legislative/facts.html 

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Student Employment Services presents Job Opportunity Events open to alumni in April:

 - Workshops on Job Search/Employment Success for the 21^st Century; topic: Employment Success Strategies for Your First 30 Days on the Job, 12-1:30 p.m., April 3, Room 176 SA Germantown Campus; April 5, Room 109 Humanities, Rockville Campus; and April 7, Bliss Room, The Commons Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. To register, call Pat Toolan or Shirley Bliss, 240-567-5057, or e-mail shirley.bliss@montgomerycollege.edu.   

- Mock Interview Days: Sign up for a 45-minute practice session, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Thursday, April 6, SA 176, Germantown Campus; 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tuesday, April 11, HU009 Rockville Campus; or 12-3 p.m. Friday, April 14, Bliss Room, The Commons, Takoma Park/Silver Spring Campus. An "approved" resume and a current job posting are required for scheduling a mock interview. To schedule a practice appointment, call Shirley Bliss, 240-567-5057.

Services are free to alumni, but registration is required. For an appointment to review a "non-approved" resume, or for assistance in creating a resume, contact the Job Opportunity Office, 240-567-5057.

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Human Resources presents a Collegewide Part-time Faculty Recruitment Fair, 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 19,  in the Theatre Arts Arena, Rockville Campus. Representatives from various departments and campuses will be present to speak with candidates about job opportunities. To qualify, candidates must have a master's degree or higher in (or closely related to) the discipline they wish to teach. Please visit the college's employment page, http://montgomerycollege.recruitmax.com/ENG/candidates/. Admission free. Attendees are encouraged to submit an on-line application prior to attending the fair.

 For information, contact Human Resources, 240-567-5353, or e-mail maria.bedenbaugh@montgomerycollege.edu.

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The Winter 2005-06 edition of Potomac Review, a regional literary magazine, is available for sale through MC's Paul Peck Humanities Institute for $10 per copy (back issues $6). Beginning with the next issue, Potomac Review will be edited in-house by College faculty and used in creative writing classes. For information, contact Julie Wakeman-Linn, editor, by e-mail at julie.wakeman-linn@montgomerycollege.edu. 

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You can still listen to the College's radio station, even if you're far from campus! MC's eRadio WMCR plays today's adult hit music from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Listen for "The 60's at Six", "The 70's at Seven", "The 80's at Eight", and "The 90's at Nine" every evening. Easy Overnight plays the best mix of lite rock favorites along with great album cuts from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Listen to tomorrow's radio professionals today as Montgomery College radio students develop their on-air skills.

 And if you're in Montgomery County, you can watch the College on cable channel 10! MC's Instructional Television presents a variety of news, movies, on-air classes, and fascinating informational programming around the clock.

The Montgomery College Alumni Association
900 Hungerford Drive, Suite 200, Rockville, MD 20850

To view this or a past issue of "Happenings at Montgomery College" anytime, visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/alumni/newsletter/index.html.

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