Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center in Derwood remains over capacity with dogs as it continues its open admissions policy—especially accepting large-breed dogs and owner surrenders.

Outreach Coordinator Brooke Ciardi said that few adoptions have occurred and urged locals to adopt or foster pets in need.

According to Comptroller Brooke Lierman, only 20% of Maryland public school buildings are in good condition while 80% need repair, renovation or replacement—costs have risen 42% since 2019 and local jurisdictions are reviewing their funding plans.

The report urges a statewide reimagining of funding formulas to address the high expense of school infrastructure.

Montgomery County's Alcohol Beverage Services will open the Oak Barrel & Vine store at Westfield Wheaton at 9:45 a.m. on Sept.

25 with a grand opening featuring seven rare whiskeys and bourbons available on a first-come, first-served basis & the store near Costco will host tastings, bottle engraving, and an expanded retail area through Sept. 28.

Gaithersburg residents will vote in November for mayor and two at-large City Council seats, with incumbent mayor Jud Ashman facing challenger Tiffany Kelly and council incumbents Lisa Henderson and Jim McNulty competing with Tim McLaughlin and Omodamola Williams.

Early voting will be held on Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Activity Center at Bohrer Park—mail-in ballots are set to be mailed starting Oct. 5.

County officials are urging residents to buy or lease electric vehicles in September to secure up to $7,500 in federal tax credits before the benefit ends Sept.

30. They said contracts and payments made before the deadline qualify for the credit even if delivery comes later — shoppers should confirm details with their dealer.

The Montgomery County Council will meet Monday, September 22 to hold a closed session on security planning and later brief committees on street classification, reorganization, housing pipeline, and Purple Line construction — with related bicycle and pedestrian improvements discussed. The session starts at 9:30 a.m. with further updates at 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Montgomery County's Ride On Bus Route 56 resumed normal service in Gaithersburg after a construction detour ended— the zero-fare policy for all Ride On services remains in effect.

The Maryland Department of Health released new guidance on COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccines and a statewide order to expand vaccine access while joining the bipartisan Northeast Public Health Collaborative to work with neighboring states on science-based measures.

The department urges individuals to speak with health care providers to assess their vaccine needs for the respiratory virus season.

Open House at 449 Leaning Oak Street

5-7 p.m. — 449 Leaning Oak Street — Free entry — Explore a beautifully designed Colonial townhouse in the charming Lakelands community.

Basic English Conversation Class

12:30-1:20 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Enhance your English speaking and writing skills through engaging activities in a supportive setting.

GYC Canoeing Adventure

9 a.m. — Gaithersburg Robertson Park Youth Center — No cost specified — Spend a delightful half-day enjoying the tranquility of canoeing on the water.

Weekly Meeting with Financial Advisor Bryan Kuskie

7:30-9:00 a.m. — Launch Workplaces — Free entry — Gain insights from a financial expert to enhance your personal finance strategy.

HCCMC Networking Fiesta

6-9 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC North/Gaithersburg — Ticket includes two complimentary drinks — Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with networking, music, and dancing.

Quilting and DIY Crafts Gathering

12:30 PM – 11:59 PM — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free participation — Collaborate on your quilting or craft projects in a friendly, supportive environment.

Pre-K Gymnastics

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM — Casey Community Center — Engaging classes for young children — Introduces basic gymnastics skills while fostering confidence and social skills.

3rd Annual Taste of Rio

2-6 p.m. — rio — Tickets from $5 — Indulge in signature bites and craft cocktails while enjoying live music by Priceless Advice along the lakefront.

Kentlands/Lakelands Group Run

7-8:30 p.m. — Lakelands Park Pavilion — Free entry — Reviving the Monday night group run with 3- or 5-mile routes in a friendly atmosphere.

Paint Branch & Springbrook Cross Country Meet

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Gaithersburg High School — Free entry — Experience an exciting cross country meet featuring local high school teams.