Last week, the County Council voted to require all residents, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings indoors at any location accessible to the public. This order became effective at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, August 7.

The new order includes the previous health, disability, and safety exceptions to the mask mandate. In addition, masks are not required while consuming food or beverages; while swimming or engaging in other physical activities where a mask would pose a bona fide safety risk; when a person in giving a speech or performing for broadcast or an audience, if no one in a location accessible to the public is within six feet of the speaker.

In addition, the resolution contains a provision that allows any individual, organization, or venue to seek clarification or a modification to the requirement for a specific business, event, or activity by requesting a Letter of Approval from the Health Officer. (This is similar to a process previously in place.)

Here’s a link to the full text of the final resolution.

Like many of our members, Chambers are now adept at pivoting.

As the new mask mandate makes Joint Speed Networking impractical, we have adapted the event to fit the current county guidelines while still providing a quality networking opportunity.

Join the Greater Silver Spring and Greater Bethesda Chambers for a Joint Networking After Hours on Thursday, August 12, at 5:30 p.m. at Montgomery College – Takoma Park/Silver Spring Cultural Arts Center.

Per county guidelines, masks are required indoors except while consuming food or beverages.

Admission is $25 and includes complimentary food and drink.

The beautiful Argyle Country Club course, your favorite foursome, and a chance to win one of several contests throughout the day – it’s the event we wait all year FORE! Secure your foursome’s spot now by locking in an event sponsorship here.

From the moment you sign up as sponsor, your business will start reaping the benefits from strategic logo placements to mentions in our emails and newsletters as well as social media communications. But hurry, these exclusive opportunities will sell fast!

There are opportunities for everyone who wants to play, sponsor, or volunteer! Find yours now before they're gone!

* Join GSSCC as we cut the ribbon for the Grand Re-Opening of the newly-renovated A Wider Circle Ann & Don Brown Center for Community Service on Wednesday, August 18, at 4 p.m. at 9159 Brookville Road, Silver Spring. RSVP here. Tours of the new space will be offered.

* Bankers Business Management Services, Inc. was recently honored by County Executive Marc Elrich with a Legacy Citation for years of serving the community and contributing to the economic vibrancy of Silver Spring. Bankers Business Management Services will celebrate 40 years in business next year. View more here.

* Panagora Group President & CEO Betsy Bassan is an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year® 2021 Mid-Atlantic Award winner, joining a community of entrepreneurs who have transformed their industries and made a positive impact on their employees and communities. Congratulation. Read more here.

* Shop Maryland Tax-Free Week is Sunday, August 8, to Saturday, August 14. Qualifying apparel and footwear $100 or less, per item, are exempt from the state sales tax during this week. Support members Ellsworth Place and Downtown Silver Spring during this time. See here for a list of taxable and exempt items.

* Kim Levone, founder and producer of Improbable Comedy, was recently profiled in Washington Jewish Week. Read the article here.

* Three GSSCC member restaurants are participating in the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s Summer Restaurant Week, which runs from Monday, August 9, to Sunday, August 15: All Set Restaurant & Bar, Matchbox Silver Spring, and Tacos, Tortas & Tequila. Read the Source of the Spring article here for more information.

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* Young Professionals Network Meeting - 4 p.m. on Thursday, August 19. (Advance registration required here.)

Most GSSCC committees take a break from meeting in August and will resume in September. Watch this space for information on upcoming meeting dates and times.

Corporate Partners - Downtown Silver Spring; Lee Development Group; Montgomery College; Joseph W. McCartin Insurance;

 Business Partners - Andalman & Flynn, AFI Silver Theatre; Apex Home 

 Partners - Bell Flowers; EBA Ernest Bland Associates; Image360; Peak Performance Digital; Scott Team International.