Good morning, Gaithersburg.

TJ Jackson collapsed during a football game last Saturday and later died from a sudden medical emergency, leaving his community in deep grief (his family is now holding a fundraiser for funeral and related expenses).

Montgomery Parks will host several free events this November—Remembrance and Reconciliation Weekend on Nov.

8-9 at the Josiah Henson Museum and Park, an Urban Wood Sale on Nov. 15 at the Green Farm Maintenance Facility in Gaithersburg, a Fall Wedding Vendor Showcase on Nov. 16 at Brookside Gardens, and a Holiday Share Fair on Nov. 22 at Black Hill Discovery Center. Guests can join hands-on tours, shop wood for projects, meet wedding vendors, and exchange items to celebrate the season.

Montgomery County’s largest flea market returns this Saturday, November 1 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the MARC rail commuter lot at the intersection of Germantown Road and Bowman Mill Drive — marking the final market of the season — with up to 150 vendors offering various goods.

El Güero Mexicano, formerly Taco Bar, will open its new restaurant in Downtown Crown this November at 200 Ellington Avenue after closing its longtime location at 10003 B Fields Rd earlier this month—run by the Valdivia family, the venue will keep its popular salsa bar and familiar menu while adding breakfast specialties and a tequila-only cocktail menu with beer and wine service. The former Taco Bar space will become a 7-Eleven convenience store.

A new Chase Bank branch is planned for the space at 178 Kentlands Boulevard in Gaithersburg, as noted in the Kentlands Market Square leasing brochure—no timeline has been set to take over the 5,000 SF location.

Popular local sushi chain Kusshi Sushi is expanding by taking over the former Zane Japanese Eatery space next to Beers and Cheers in Germantown—its first upcounty location as it builds on its success from other regional areas, and an official opening timeline remains unannounced.

Montgomery College has been selected by Achieving the Dream to join a national initiative testing eight-week semesters.

The program—funded by Ascendium Education Group—aims to offer a flexible schedule for working and adult learners.

Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection reminded residents that gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuums are banned on private and commercial property, with a $500 fine for violations.

The county urges people to mulch, compost, or leave fallen leaves in place and is offering free compost bins at local stores.

WalletHub’s report ranked the Washington Arlington Alexandria metro area as the third best winter holiday destination — the analysis compared 70 major metro areas on travel hassles, lodging costs, attractions, and weather factors.

Montgomery County football previews show that the Gaithersburg Trojans will face the undefeated Quince Orchard Cougars tomorrow with the Cougars predicted to win 50–6—boosting their chance for an undefeated season.

The review also outlines other matchups as teams adjust their playoff hopes.

The Upcounty Hub Five-Year Anniversary Gala

6-9 p.m. — Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center — Tickets available — Celebrate 5 years of community impact with dinner, live entertainment, and inspiring stories.

Halloween Pint Night!

6-8 p.m. — Dogfish Head Alehouse — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy spooky decorations and themed cocktails at a festive Halloween gathering.

Montgomery County Career Firefighters Gala

6-11:30 p.m. — Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center — Celebrate the heroes of our community with an evening of food, music, and heartfelt tributes.

2025 Fall Mini Sessions

2:30-6 p.m. — Bohrer Park — $75 — Capture cozy fall memories with beautiful portraits in stunning autumn hues.

Monday Night Bowling

7-9 p.m. — Lucky Strike Gaithersburg — Cost varies — Enjoy an entertaining evening of bowling with friends in a lively atmosphere.

Women’s Craft Social: Felt Flowers Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — Free entry — Enjoy crafting and conversation while learning to make beautiful felt flowers.

Comedy Show

7-9:30 p.m. — Mayan Monkey Brewing Co. — In-person attendance — Get ready for a night full of non-stop laughter and good vibes!

Saints Row Pub Run

6:15-8:00 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Free entry — Run through Gaithersburg's scenic routes followed by refreshing pints and camaraderie.

Prayer & Brunch

11 AM – 1 PM — Casey Community Center — Free entry — Enjoy a warm meal and uplifting prayers in a welcoming atmosphere.

MINTD Card Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center — $5/adult, free for kids under 12 — Buy, sell, and trade Pokémon and collectibles with over 80 vendors.