Good morning, Rockville.

Inc magazine’s new Inc. 5000 list shows 290 D.C.-area companies, up from 214 last year.

Local companies include Rockville-based Chaberton Energy—ranking No. 53 with 5,124% revenue growth—and Gaithersburg’s Connsci at No. 83 with 3,800% growth.

Montgomery College was named Maryland's best community college in a WalletHub study released on August 13th that looked at cost, school success and job outcomes from 653 schools.

Its strong retention rates—and good pay for graduates—made it the top school in the state and placed it 17th in the nation.

Montgomery County Public Schools proposed changes to its magnet programs that would shift from countywide offerings to regional models, and local stakeholders have voiced concerns that the change may reduce access to advanced classes and qualified teachers.

Parents, union leaders, and board members said the new plan could limit seats and consistency — MCPS is expected to present its recommendation for a school board vote by December.

Steve Solomon, a podcaster who has run for office before, declared his candidacy Tuesday for an at-large County Council seat in the 2026 primary—joining other contenders like Fatmata Barrie and Jeremiah Pope.

Councilmember Andrew Friedson received endorsements from State’s Attorney John McCarthy and local officials on Tuesday for his bid to replace County Executive Marc Elrich—Council President Kate Stewart filed for re-election and podcast host Steve Solomon launched an at-large County Council campaign amid a competitive race. The political moves come as Montgomery County prepares for leadership changes with Elrich's term set to end in 2026.

Montgomery County officials said a small drop in children getting vaccines from county clinics has raised concerns, so parents should check with their doctors—wastewater tests show a rise in COVID traces and county hospitalizations remain steady.

Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes will open a third gymnastics and ninja fitness academy in Silver Spring in the first quarter of 2026, located at 12006 Plum Orchard Drive in White Oak near Adventist HealthCare and Orchard Center.

Academy CEO Adam Zeitsiff said the new facility will offer gymnastics, ninja courses and recreational programs—part of a national expansion plan to add more gyms for youth fitness.

The Washington Commanders donated thousands of pieces of equipment including pads, practice jerseys, and cleats + a $10,000 check to nonprofit Leveling the Playing Field in Silver Spring to help youth and high school football programs start the season without costly gear.

The donation will support local athletes and ease financial burdens for coaches and families.

Clay Mottley with Love Story Band Concert

6:30-10:30 p.m. — King Farm Community Center — Cost info not provided — Experience clever and catchy melodies from a master craftsman in songwriting.

Eli Lev Live Performance

7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — Olney Rotary Club — Check website for details — Enjoy uplifting songs from rising singer-songwriter Eli Lev as he connects the world through music.

Ice Cream Social

12:15 – 1:45 PM — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Cool off with ice cream while enjoying lively line dancing for all skill levels.

Eli Lev Live Performance

10 AM – 4 PM — Olney Farmers and Artists Market — Free entry — Experience the uplifting melodies of singer-songwriter Eli Lev, promoting global connection through music.

Jonathan Sloane Band Performance

9:00 PM - 11:59 PM — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No cover charge — Enjoy a night of blues, R&B, and rock 'n' roll with the multi-talented Jonathan Sloane Band.

Fall Flea Market

8 a.m. - 1 p.m. — North Creek Community Center & Pool — Free entry — Clean out your old treasures and discover unique finds at this community flea market.

TSB Basketball Express for Ages 4 to 5

12:00 PM — Lake Marion Community Center & Pool — Participation fee required — A fun and engaging introductory basketball program for young children to develop skills and teamwork.

Restore & Relax Yin Yoga with Lena

7:00 PM - 8:15 PM — Lake Marion Community Center & Pool — Entry fee applies — Experience the calming power of restorative Yin yoga and start your week off right.

A Day in the Parks: Exploring Ferns

9:20 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Ticket information not provided — Discover the shady world of ferns through guided identification and immersive nature experiences.

Fast Eddie & The Slowpokes Live Performance

8:30 PM – 2:30 AM — Hershey's Restaurant — Cover charge may apply — Enjoy a night of soulful blues from the acclaimed duo with accolades under their belt.