Good morning, Gaithersburg.

On Friday, AstraZeneca announced a $2 billion plan to build a new clinical manufacturing facility in Gaithersburg and expand its Frederick facility, which will add 2,600 jobs by 2029—bringing 100 new jobs, 400 retained roles and 1,000 construction positions in Gaithersburg.

The Gaithersburg facility will manufacture treatments for clinical trials while using advanced technology and meeting strict environmental standards.

Bubbakoo’s Burritos, a fast-casual restaurant known for its customizable menu, is opening its first Montgomery County spot today at Market Hall at Clarksburg Premium Outlets + the chain plans a new branch in Olney in 2026.

Montgomery County school officials told a council committee Friday that they made progress updating employee criminal background checks after an August report found many were still incomplete.

Chief Essie McGuire said more than 6,400 employees were rescreened by Nov. 7 and the school system expects to finish the process before winter break—some loose ends may be completed in January.

Montgomery County Fire Chief Corey Smedley reminded residents to follow safety guidelines for Thanksgiving because the holiday sees more cooking fires than any other day.

He advised checking smoke alarms and using safe practices for stoves and turkey fryers — measures that will help prevent fire hazards.

Gaithersburg senior citizens will face a nearly 10% rise in Medicare Part B premiums in 2026—raising the monthly fee to $202.90—and this increase will consume almost one-third of the $56 Social Security adjustment they receive.

The steep hike marks the largest jump in four years and comes as healthcare costs continue to climb.

Maryland high school football playoff quarterfinal games ended Friday November 21 with Flowers scoring 10 against Quince Orchard’s 14, Blair earning 7 while Churchill posted 28, Broadneck tallying 20 against Paint Branch’s 6, and North Point scoring 7 as Sherwood reached 13—each result marking the teams’ half-time outcomes.

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.

Fall Frenzy by Student Union

1-5 p.m. — Activity Center at Bohrer Park — Registration required — Engage in sports, crafts, and fun with food and raffles at this vibrant community event for teens.

Authentic Pad Thai Cooking Class

6:30-9:00 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Cost not specified — Dive into the art of making Pad Thai and learn about its 15 essential ingredients.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

11:00 a.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Special deals on wings — Score big with game day deals at Dave & Buster's.

Saints Row Pub Run

6:15-8 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a scenic 3-5 mile run followed by some pints and great company with fellow runners.

Dinomania Weekly Class for Young Dino Enthusiasts

9:30-10:15 a.m. — Kidcreate Studio - Rockville — Cost varies — A delightful class for little ones to learn about dinosaurs while creating art inspired by their favorite extinct creatures.

Game Days at D&B

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

Kentlands/Lakelands Weekly Group Run

7-8:30 p.m. — Lakelands Park Soccer Fields — Free entry — Enjoy a scenic group run through the Lakelands and Kentlands neighborhoods with pace options.

Lunch & Learn: Understanding Medical Wigs

5-7:30 p.m. — 12 S Summit Ave, Gaithersburg, MD — $25 — Discover the essentials of medical wigs while enjoying a delicious lunch and hands-on experience.