Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Members of Seasonal Roots donated over 2,400 pounds of fresh produce yesterday and today to help neighbors affected by the federal shutdown and support local farmers.

Donations went to organizations in Montgomery and Howard Counties—including Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church and local food pantries—and the program will continue next week.

Montgomery County will host a series of holiday markets with festive events planned in Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Gaithersburg and other towns.

In Gaithersburg, the Holiday Artisan Market at Arts Barn will run on Nov 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—seventeen local artists will sell crafts and treats—inviting visitors to enjoy seasonal shopping.

A Germantown man won $62,576 on November 7 by placing a $4.80 Racetrax bet at My Dollar & More at 250 North Frederick Avenue in Gaithersburg.

He plans to donate part of his winnings to help those in need and the store received a $625 bonus for selling a winning ticket worth over $10,000.

Montgomery County is inviting clergy, staff, and active members from houses of worship to complete the 2025 Faith Community Survey — a measure to improve communication, emergency response, and resource access.

It will update the county's database of over 600 houses and build stronger partnerships with local faith communities.

Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles hosted the inaugural Farm-to-Table Symposium on Monday, November 10 at BlackRock Center for the Arts—bringing together farmers, restaurateurs and community partners to discuss ways to improve local food systems.

U.S. Rep. April McClain Delaney and Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks spoke to highlight the benefits of buying local produce.

Homelessness in Montgomery County has risen sharply as full shelters struggle to house many people, and county leaders are planning for federal cuts that may force up to 560 individuals—families, veterans, and those with disabilities—back onto the streets within the next six months. Data from five years shows an increase to 1,510 homeless residents, underscoring the urgent need for new support measures.

Montgomery County expanded its MC Groceries program to help 700 working families who do not qualify for SNAP but struggle with living costs.

The program gives $100 per child per month using Instacart to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy, easing transportation challenges for families on the cusp of hunger.

MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney has shared guidance for the cold and flu season as viruses like COVID-19, flu, RSV and colds are expected to spread.

Frontline clinician Deanna Najera, PA-C, said families should get vaccines, practice good hygiene and seek help if they have high fever or breathing trouble—steps that protect those at risk.

Peterson Cos. is moving forward with its Rio Lakefront redevelopment that will replace the former Kohl’s building with a mixed-use structure offering up to 275 apartments, 44,000 SF of retail including a grocery store, and five attached homes.

The scheme also adds 215 multifamily units and 18 townhomes on nearby sites with Phase 1 set to finish by 2028 and Phase 2 by 2032 — the plan is now under review by the city.

Montgomery College men's soccer team won (3–0) at Monroe Community College on Nov.

9 and will now compete in the NJCAA Division I National Tournament starting Nov. 16 in Daytona Beach (facing Tyler Community College).

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.

Exploring AI with Senior Planet

11 AM – 12 PM — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Dive into the world of AI and learn practical applications and safety tips for its use.

Plushy Pals Clay Factory Weekly Class

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Kidcreate Studio - Rockville — Check website for pricing — Craft cuddly creations inspired by plush toys in a fun clay class.

Saints Row Pub Run

6-8 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a scenic run followed by refreshing pints with fellow runners.

Build Your Own Holiday Gnome Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — All materials included — Get creative and craft a whimsical gnome from upcycled materials for the holiday season.

Jimmie J.J. Walker Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Give a Hoot Comedy Club — Free parking — Experience a night of laughter with legendary comedian Jimmie Walker.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Game day deals available — Score big with 10 wings for $10 during Game Days.