Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Seven & i Holdings has announced a new plan that will upgrade more than 60 local 7-Eleven stores in Montgomery County—adding larger formats, better food choices, and faster delivery with the 7NOW platform.

The company will also remodel several outlets and add counters for restaurant-style meals as part of its global transformation by fiscal year 2030.

Montgomery Parks removed 461 introduced trees from local parks earlier this year and will plant sustainable replacements this fall—this five-year program aims to protect local ecosystems from invasive species.

MCDOT reported that the Great Seneca Transit Network’s express “Pink” and “Lime” routes in Gaithersburg have reached more than 1,000 daily riders at their one-year anniversary.

The upgraded bus service has doubled ridership since its launch in September 2024—providing fast, frequent links to shopping, education and work.

Today the Montgomery County Council celebrated African Heritage Month as it worked to honor African immigrants and promote inclusivity—Council President Kate Stewart noted more than 16% of the county's immigrant population is African while Council member Will Jawando shared his personal ties to Nigeria.

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and community partners are hosting 12 Community Conversations through November to collect input on the FY27 operating budget, which is due for recommendation by March 16 and final adoption by June 1.

The next in-person session for older adults will be held this Sunday, September 28, from 3—4:30 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Center Building.

The Purple Line track work in Montgomery is 79% complete and will finish in spring 2026—while the Prince George’s section is done and passenger service is planned for winter 2027.

Council members questioned how uneven impacts on local businesses are being addressed as construction continues.

Governor Wes Moore and legislative leaders announced a $200M energy rebate program under the Next Generation Energy Act to ease rising energy costs for Maryland families.

Rebates of $30—$67 per household were given between August and September and a second round will be issued January—February to further lower bills.

Sligo Creek Parkway between Wayne Avenue and Piney Branch Road closed Monday, September 22 for about two months while Purple Line crews installed tracks at the intersection of Wayne Avenue and Sligo Creek (with possible delays due to weather) and motorists navigated posted detour signs (ensuring a safe route), while pedestrians maintained clear access.

On Friday night, Quince Orchard defeated Stone Bridge 20-0 at Cougar Dome — forcing three turnovers and limiting Stone Bridge to fewer than 100 yards.

Tight end Diego Rodriguez made a key pick-six and helped extend the Cougars' win streak to 16 games.

NFL star Chop Robinson returned to Quince Orchard on Friday night to watch his old team face Stone Bridge—joined by Penn State’s Xavier Gilliam—where both alumni greeted fans and encouraged players as the Cougars built on a strong performance.

After two weeks of tough games in Montgomery County volleyball, undefeated Magruder, Quince Orchard, and Sherwood show early dominance while Gaithersburg dropped a close five-set match against Magruder.

Week three will feature key matchups on Wed—such as Magruder at Sherwood—and on Fri when Gaithersburg hosts Springbrook.

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.

Let's Draw, Paint, and Sculpt

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Kidcreate Studio - Rockville — Check website for pricing — A sensory class filled with hands-on art activities for young children and their caregivers.

Tween Night Craft Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — Pizza provided — An evening of fun crafts and new friendships for tweens aged 9 to 12.

Skateboarding Group Lesson

10 AM – 12 PM — Gaithersburg Skate Park — Registration opens soon — Learn to skate with personalized instruction in a fun group setting.