Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Bethesda resident Jeffrey Bloch is leading Maryland volunteers to raise money for a specially equipped truck that will aid a Ukrainian military unit as part of the 50 States for Ukraine campaign (nearly half of the $13,000 goal has been met) while similar drives in nearby DC and Virginia have already funded several vehicles.

Monster trucks from the Renegade Monster Truck tour entertained fairgoers for two nights this week at the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair in Gaithersburg.

The event featured eight trucks, big jumps, and roaring engines as local fans cheered for driver Cory Snyder.

Coming soon signage has been placed at the future SWTHZ location at the Kentlands; the contrast therapy studio at 107 Market St W will open as its second Maryland location and offers private suites with an infrared sauna plus a cold plunge to support recovery and wellness.

Montgomery County Public Schools faces a $3 billion maintenance backlog with plans to spend another $560 million each year on routine repairs like HVAC and plumbing, as officials reported at a board meeting this week.

Aging buildings and a growing school footprint have increased the strain on resources.

Montgomery County Public Schools has reminded drivers to be alert as yellow school buses will begin to appear in neighborhoods Tuesday when students return to school.

Officials say drivers must stop at least 20 feet away when buses flash red lights — a rule designed to protect children.

MCPS faces questions after its superintendent signed a contract for a 30-day AI weapons screening pilot (aimed at enhancing safety) in high schools, which was disclosed only after a Maryland Public Information Act request.

The school board will address the issue next Thursday.

Montgomery County Public Schools approved a $55 million six-year plan to install new artificial turf fields at several high schools, but students and County Executive Marc Elrich argued against it at a recent board meeting due to concerns over extreme field temperatures (up to 170 degrees) and pollution from microplastics.

About 100 hours before classes resume, Montgomery County Public Schools reported a $3 billion deferred maintenance backlog.

Deputy chief of facilities management Andrea Swiatocha warned that some buildings may have mold (cracked surfaces and unreliable HVAC systems) when students return.

Montgomery County health officials urge residents to avoid contact with wildlife after a beaver near Seneca Creek State Park tested positive for rabies and a 10-year-old girl was bitten on Aug.

13 near Berryville Rd & some trail access points remain closed.