Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Regional theaters are drawing more support as challenges at the Kennedy Center lead to increased donations and sold-out shows.

Olney Theatre Center and Signature Theatre in the area have attracted local performers and audiences as community arts remain a strong focus.

Montgomery County Public Schools need more counselors to support international and newcomer students amid declining enrollment.

Officials said the shortage has forced staff to cover multiple schools - straining resources for English language learners and other vulnerable students.

Two Montgomery County elementary schools — Wilson Wims in Clarksburg, which celebrated on Jan.

7, and Diamond Elementary in Gaithersburg, which celebrated on Jan. 9 — were named Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools for 2025-2026 for academic excellence and progress in closing achievement gaps.

Alim Saidkhodjaev, a Montgomery County success, earned his engineering degree from UMD at age 19 after advancing through Dual Enrollment and CPSE programs at USG Rockville.

He now works as a research engineer in Beltsville + applies his skills on innovative projects.

Montgomery County Councilmember Evan Glass hosted a town hall on road safety Saturday morning at the county council office — more than 150 local residents urged new speed cameras, sidewalks and other traffic calming measures after a pedestrian incident raised concerns.

On Monday, Jan. 19, Montgomery County will honor MLK Day by closing offices and adjusting transit routes.

Bus and train services will run on a holiday schedule and free parking will be offered at Bethesda, Silver Spring and Wheaton — verify times as needed.

Md. Attorney General Anthony Brown said his Consumer Protection Division unit saved or recovered $2.6 million for consumers by appealing denied health care claims & negotiating lower payments.

The report notes only 10% of Marylanders appeal denials, even as the state succeeded in 56% of challenges.

Local health officials warn that rising flu and respiratory infections in Montgomery County may set record levels this season.

They advise residents to wear masks in healthcare settings and consider telemedicine (to reduce crowding) while flu vaccines remain available.

The Health and Human Services department unveiled a new food pyramid that emphasizes proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and veggies.

Local experts advise Gaithersburg families to balance lean, plant-based proteins with the updated guidelines + focus on whole, minimally processed foods for healthier meals.

Montgomery County natives Caroline Green (Rockville) and Michael Parsons (Derwood) finished fourth at the U.S. Figure Skating Championship in St. Louis and will serve as Olympic alternates for the Winter Games in Milan Cortina next month if a top pair withdraws.

Game Days at D&B

11:00 a.m. — Dave and Buster's - Gaithersburg — $10 for 10 wings — Score big with game day deals at Dave & Buster's.

Pre-K Gymnastics Class

10:15 a.m. — Casey Community Center — Class fee varies — A fun class for little ones to learn gymnastics and build self-esteem through active play.

Game Days at D&B

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Game day deals await — Score big with tasty wings for just $10.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00am — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — $10 for 10 wings — Score big with game day deals and enjoy a fun atmosphere.

Game Days at D&B

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Game day deals — Score big with game day specials including tasty wings.

Family Pajama Party: Dino ROAR Pajama Party

5:30-7 p.m. — Casey Community Center — Family-friendly — Enjoy dino-themed crafts and activities to warm up the winter night.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — 10 wings for $10 — Score big with game day deals and fun for all ages.

Book Lovers Craft Camp for Kids

12:30-4 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — Cost included with registration — Kids will dive into reading-inspired crafting activities and create personalized book-themed items.

Blood Drive at Casey Community Center

10 AM – 3:30 PM — Casey Community Center — Free — Donate blood and help save lives.

Kid's Night at Dogfish Head Alehouse

5-11:59 p.m. — Dogfish Head Alehouse — Kids 12 and under eat FREE with adult entrée — A special night for kids with free meals and crafts every last Wednesday of the month.