The contest was held at the state convention in Ocean City last Thursday.

We've said it before, but it bears repeating: The Post 86 Color Guard adds great pomp and circumstance to many local events, and is one of the community's great -- but perhaps little known -- assets.

Formed in 1981 to promote Americanism, the group has done just that for 20 years.

Seeing the Post 86 Color Guard present the flag at any event is a very visual reminder of the pride we have in our country and community.

City rides on to next stage of bike trail

Salon holds clothing drive for homeless

Formerly homeless families working toward self-sufficiency received a welcome boost through the efforts of the customers and staff of Salon Vogue and Day Spa in the Montrose Crossing Center in Rockville.

A clothing drive, coordinated by salon manager Stephen Welsh, produced several carloads of clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories suitable for job interviews and wear in the workplace.

Families enrolled in The Dwelling Place, a transitional housing program for homeless families in Gaithersburg, were invited to "shop" the donations and coordinate a work wardrobe.

"Many of Dwelling Place participants lack appropriate clothing for job interviews and the workplace as well as funds to purchase these items," program's employment specialist Ruth McArthur said. "Being well-dressed and groomed also helps boost self esteem ..."

Appalachian Spring to collect school supplies

Appalachian Spring in Rockville is collecting supplies for needy children as they prepare for their return to school.

The following items are needed: pencils, washable markers, crayons, notebooks, glue, filler paper, yellow highlighters, rulers and medium-point pens. New and gently used backpacks also are needed.

Items may be taken during August to Appalachian Spring, 1641 Rockville Pike in Congressional Plaza. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.

Restaurant also pitching in

Old Country Buffet, 240 North Frederick Ave. in Gaithersburg, is collecting new school supplies for the upcoming school year.

Community Ministry of Montgomery County in Rockville will distribute the supplies to children in need.

Items should be dropped off at Old Country Buffet by Aug. 12.

Items appropriate for this column should be sent to Judy Hruz, Editor, The Rockville Gazette, 1200 Quince Orchard Road, Gaithersburg, Md. 20878; faxed to 301-670-7182 or 301-670-7183; or e-mailed to jhruz@gazette.net. Deadline is Thursday at 5 p.m. for the following Wednesday's paper. Include a daytime telephone number.