State, Local Officials Discuss Regional Issues at Partnership Dinner
COG hosted the first National Capital Region Local-State Partnership Dinner in May, bringing together local and state elected officials who work on top regional priorities. The networking dinner was part of COG's effort to strengthen local and state collaboration on issues such as transportation funding, Chesapeake Bay restoration, and homeland security.

Bike to Work Day Draws Largest Crowd Ever
Bicyclists turned out in record numbers at 21 different sites across the region to celebrate the Bike to Work Day event organized by Commuter Connections, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA). The event is held every spring to increase awareness of bicycling to work in the National Capital Region.

Workshop Participants Explore Hydrogen Technology
A Hydrogen Workshop held at COG in May brought together government officials and industry experts to discuss the newest research in alternative fuels. The one-day session, cosponsored by COG and the National Hydrogen Association, focused on the production of hydrogen as an alternative source for generating electricity and fueling vehicles in the metropolitan region.

Clean Air Partners Celebrates National Air Quality Awareness Week
Clean Air Partners kicked off National Air Quality Awareness Week with a special media event to educate the public about environmental and health risks associated with poor air quality. During the press event in May, regional air quality and health experts demonstrated how individuals can protect their health on poor air quality days.

More Than 700 Celebrate at Fourth Annual Foster Gala
The fourth annual Foster Parent Appreciation Gala sponsored by COG and the Freddie Mac Foundation drew a crowd of more than 700 foster parents and their guests. The event was an opportunity for elected officials to honor nine outstanding foster families, and gave foster parents the opportunity to enjoy an evening of dancing and fine food.

Forum Explores Strategies for Combating Local Meth Problem
As the number of methamphetamine labs and addicts grows throughout the region, COG brought together law enforcement and health officials, as well as appointed and elected officials, to discuss local impacts of meth production and distribution. During a one-day forum cosponsored by Strategic Applications International, public officials worked to identify policies and strategies for preventing the increased use of meth and to mitigate its threat to the region.