Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Immigration and intermarriage are making the D.C. region more diverse, experts said, as census data shows local neighborhoods seeing growth in Hispanic and Asian communities.

In Montgomery County, the numbers reveal an increase of 1,746 Asian residents and 1,723 Hispanic residents, with immigration preventing a population decline.

Montgomery County offers several haunted attractions for Halloween such as Markoff’s Haunted Forest, Leech Woods, Kindred Hills, and Salgado’s Haunted Trail—Field of Screams is cancelled for renovations with a planned reopening in Fall.

These events provide immersive spooky experiences that also support local outdoor education programs.

Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival returns for its 30th season at Seneca Creek State Park, opening November 28 and running nightly through December 31—closed on December 25.

Tickets must be purchased in advance by Tuesday, October 15 at 10 a.m.—the 3.5-mile drive features more than 450 illuminated displays that create a glowing winter wonderland.

MCPS Superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor addressed the community today about hard truths in older school buildings—problems include mold and pest issues, along with failing HVAC and ceiling repairs.

He said additional funding will be discussed at public meetings on Oct. 23, Oct. 28, and Nov. 6 as well as listening sessions on Oct. 21 and 22.

Montgomery County has observed Indigenous Peoples’ Day since 2020 instead of Columbus Day on the second Monday in October.

County officials say the change highlights Native American cultures and histories—an effort to honor the region’s original inhabitants.

New bike lanes are being built along River Road to honor Sarah Langenkamp— a diplomat and mother killed while riding her bike in 2022— as her husband said the wider lanes with green stripes and stanchions will help alert drivers and keep cyclists safe.

The lanes run on both sides from Brookside Drive to Little Falls Parkway and should be finished by the end of October if weather permits.

Three Montgomery County restaurants—Woodlands in Gaithersburg, RASA in Rockville, and Kadhai in Bethesda—were named among Eater DC’s Best Indian Restaurants Around D.C. list for their distinct menus; Woodlands serves traditional South Indian fare, RASA offers modern customizable bowls, and Kadhai features refined North Indian dishes.

Maryland Realtors warned that the ongoing federal government shutdown may delay flood insurance renewals and pause USDA loans, affecting home buyers and sellers in the area—local experts are advising residents to talk with their realtor about alternative options.

They noted that existing policies may transfer and that delays in processing VA loans could also occur if the shutdown extends.

On Friday night, Quince Orchard defeated Sherwood 35 to 28 in a hard fought football game that kept the Cougars unbeaten with six wins.

The Cougars will travel on Thursday to face Clarksburg — while Sherwood prepares for its upcoming home game against Wootton.

Retired coach John Fahrner—nicknamed Mr. Rocket—and former star Brian Magid have teamed up to create an all-time team list that documents Montgomery County high school basketball from 1960 to 2013.

The project honors local talent by detailing a starting five, an extended top 25, and other key players and coaches from decades of competitive play.

CCACC Computer Tech Training

9:30-10:45 a.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Gain essential computer skills in a supportive environment tailored for seniors.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave and Buster's Gaithersburg — Cost of wings at $10 — Score big with game day deals and wing specials.

Saints Row Pub Run

6:15-8 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — No cost — Enjoy a friendly run followed by refreshing pints with fellow running enthusiasts.

Casey's Boo Bash

10 AM – 12 PM — Casey Community Center — Free entry — A spook-tacular family Halloween party full of magic and mischief awaits for all ghouls and goblins.

The Praise Explosion: The Wall of Jericho Will Fall

2-5 p.m. — Rebirth Christian Center — Free entry — Experience dynamic worship and prophetic declarations for spiritual breakthroughs.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

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

Discover Dance

5:00 PM — Casey Community Center — Cost TBA — Children will enjoy dance through music and creative expression in a fun environment.

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 enjoy a fun atmosphere.

Haunted House Keepsake Workshop

10:00 – 10:45 AM — Kidcreate Studio - Rockville — Registration required — Create spooky handprint ghosts and a keepsake haunted house picture with your child.

Skateboarding Group Lesson

10 AM – 12 PM — Gaithersburg Skate Park — Registration required — Learn new tricks and improve your skills in a tailored group setting.