Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Montgomery County’s Toys for Tots avoided cancellation when a realtor donated a 9,000-square-foot warehouse free of charge — Elizabeth Scott said the toy drive may double last year’s turnout amid job cuts and a government shutdown.

Coming soon signage is up for Guapo’s Taqueria and Charcoal Chicken at the former California Tortilla location at 12211 Darnestown Road in Gaithersburg—replacing a long-running Mexican spot that closed permanently last week.

The family-run restaurant group brings its fast-casual concept back—although an opening date has not been announced.

MCPS approved a 10-year lease for a new 161,500-square-foot warehouse in Gaithersburg — replacing its aging Rockville facility as the district plans a partial move-in in fall 2026.

The lease, which began on November 1 at about $29.5 million total, will see interior construction start next year with initial funding of $2.47 million.

Maryland lawmakers with Jamaican roots are rallying donations and aid after Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica on October 28, leaving many without essential services.

Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles and Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins are partnering with the Jamaican Embassy to collect supplies (gauze, nonperishable foods, and cleaning items) at the Silver Spring Civic Building or Montgomery County College’s Germantown campus Bioscience Education Center by November 17.

Furloughed federal workers with children in Montgomery County Public Schools joined their students for lunch on Thursday amid the ongoing shutdown — Robert Frost Middle School Principal Joey Jones organized music and giveaways as part of Federal Family Lunch Day during the shutdown's 37th day.

Gov. Wes Moore announced at Prince George’s Community College in Largo that Maryland offered a second round of emergency loans (up to $1,400) for furloughed federal workers, free public transit for these employees, and $10.1 million to help low-income federal workers pay utility bills while also funding 50% of SNAP benefits this November. He said the state took these steps in response to delays from the federal shutdown, blaming the president for the slowdown.

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.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Special deals available — Score big with game day deals including 10 wings for $10.

Museum on Tap: Discovery of Planetary Radio Emissions

7 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Free entry — Discover the groundbreaking story behind the world's largest radio telescope and its impact on radio astronomy.

LifeVantage Activation Tour

7-9 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Gaithersburg Washingtonian Center — Free entry — Ignite your passion for health, wellness, and entrepreneurship at this engaging tour.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Game day deals available — Score big with special offers on wings and gaming fun.

Wander Through Light-Filled Worlds of Winter Whimsy

Explore dazzling light worlds — 6-10 p.m. — Montgomery County Fair — Ticket info TBA — Experience enchanting light displays and magical creatures at Maryland’s winter festival.

Film at Eleven Band Performance

8-11 p.m. — Mayan Monkey Brewing Co. — Admission TBD — Enjoy a night of live music with the Film at Eleven Band at this popular local brewery.

Sunday SIP

9 p.m. - close — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — 1/2 priced drinks and a free $10 Power Card — A night for service industry professionals to unwind with amazing discounts and fun games.

Monday Night Bowling Bash

7-9 p.m. — Lucky Strike Gaithersburg — Cost varies — Enjoy an evening of fun and casual bowling with friends amid good vibes and community spirit.

BYOP Crafting Night

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — Free entry — Gather with fellow crafters and unleash your creativity while working on your own projects.