Good morning, Gaithersburg.

Homelessness in Montgomery County increased 124% from 675 in 2024 to 1,500 in 2025, leaving all shelters full and forcing Interfaith Works to open overflow spaces as colder weather and government shutdown effects strain resources — deputy director N’Jeri Henry said — while staff provided extra support through room placements and subsidies. The growing crisis may worsen if available resources do not meet community needs.

Papa John’s International announced that Pie Investments—led by franchise operator Chris Patel—assumed control of 85 restaurants in the region and will add 52 new locations by 2030.

The signage for Quincy’s Golf & Social is up at 245 Kentlands Blvd and marks the first sign of progress on the new country club style venue that will feature a Trackman system for golf practice, full-service restaurant, and bar—while the existing Quincy’s remains open.

Construction continues and no opening date has been announced.

Jonathan Banks, a Northwood High School alumnus raised in Montgomery County, stars in Netflix’s new miniseries The Beast in Me—he plays Martin Jarvis, a ruthless real estate mogul—while the show climbs streaming rankings since its 2025 debut.

Montgomery County middle and high school students now have extra time to submit a PSA video contest that highlights the dangers of illegal drug use and opioid misuse, with entries accepted until January 4.

The contest honors Michael Pisarra and Matthew Loudon — who lost their lives to fentanyl — and offers more than $10,000 in prizes with winners announced on January 31.

In December, construction will begin on Blohm Park’s trail system as the City’s Department of Public Works has contracted Highway and Safety Services, Inc.—expected to finish the three-month project based on weather conditions—to add new loop trails, interpretive signage, seating areas, and a boardwalk wetland overlook. The park will be closed during construction and reopen after all work is complete.

County Executive Marc Elrich said on Tuesday he began reviewing the school board’s approved Capital Improvements Program+ he noted that the added $160 million per year over six years exceeds current spending and will need council help and possibly state funds to cover the cost.

Governor Wes Moore announced that applications for the Community Schools Rental Assistance Program are now open in eight jurisdictions to help families with students in community schools facing housing instability—covering past-due rent, utilities, moving fees, and deposits for up to 15 months. More than 1,300 applications have been received and over 400 households have already gotten help.

The Mid-Atlantic Sports Card Show returns Saturday at Silver Spring Civic Center from 10am to 3pm with regular early entry at 9am — a special 8:30am entrance is set for children with sensory needs to enjoy a quieter atmosphere among over 150 tables of memorabilia and cards.

Founders Ryan and Mariana McCormick introduced the early start to help all families experience the event.

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.

Mosaic Holiday Ornaments Craft Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Locally Crafted Workshop — Cost info not specified — Create two unique mosaic holiday ornaments in this festive DIY session.

Saints Row Pub Run

6:15-8:00 p.m. — Saints Row Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a weekly run and some pints with fellow runners in Gaithersburg.

Hepcat Hoodie Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Beers & Cheers Too — Check venue for entry fee — Experience live music from Hepcat Hoodie as they bring good vibes and great tunes to Gaithersburg.

Game Days at Dave & Buster's

12-7 p.m. — Dave & Buster's Gaithersburg — Special deals available — Score big with game day deals including 10 wings for $10.

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 fun activities for all ages.