Good morning, Rockville.

A sinkhole has closed eastbound lanes of River Road at Counselman Road in Potomac early Thursday morning, and crews are working on repairs while drivers are advised to use alternate routes.

Butler's Orchard in Germantown will begin limited apple picking Saturday because an April freeze nearly wiped out key apple varieties.

The orchard will offer pre-picked apples with higher prices plus cider made from a smaller crop, inviting visitors to enjoy fall treats.

The Community and Education Policy Alliance (CEPA) announced its appeal against the relocation of Wootton High School’s physical property after a prehearing conference on Sept.

1; evidentiary hearings will be held in early December to address the school closing process. The case could influence school closing policies across Maryland.

Maryland Transit Administration will expand MARC Train service to provide a weekday connection between Montgomery County and Baltimore starting Sept.

28 — a move aimed at linking residents with major employers, schools and health centers in these communities.

Southbound River Road at Falls Road in Potomac closed on Thursday after a sinkhole appeared, causing major delays while police secured the area + drivers were urged to use alternate routes until repairs are completed.

Montgomery County Public Schools and Washington Catholic Athletic Conference start high school football today with four key games across the region.

In Rockville, the Richard Montgomery Rockets open at 6:30 p.m., as Quince Orchard, Churchill, and Good Counsel also play on Friday (details vary by venue).