Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 5th of September.
Good morning, Rockville.
Montgomery Community Media announced Markette Sheppard as its new Director of News and Public Information today.
She brings over 15 years of experience in television and digital media—her appointment is part of a strategic plan to offer fresh, community-driven news in Montgomery County.
A man in black took photos of entryways at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Rockville on Monday and was found not to be a threat by Montgomery County police—he cooperated with investigators.
Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School went into secure status on September 4th after a bomb threat was called into Montgomery County police — police scanned the building and the school switched to hold status before dismissing students.
Montgomery County Public Schools began a study last school year with Bureau Veritas to check the roofs, HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems in 41 elementary and 14 middle/high schools.
The evaluations will finish by the end of the 2025-2026 school year—schools like Monocacy and Piney Branch have already been flagged for high depleted value.
MCPS is launching a new model for student programs starting in 2027-2028 to expand STEM, career readiness, and advanced coursework at more schools — a move designed to give every neighborhood school strong opportunities.
The plan will preserve top courses and ensure equitable access — so that a student’s future depends on their potential and not their zip code.
Montgomery County is preparing for federal job cuts in October that could remove 20,000—40,000 positions including contractor and vendor roles, County Executive Marc Elrich said during a press briefing.
Thousands of local workers have already lost jobs and can use local help from library classes and community colleges to learn new skills.
County Executive Marc Elrich warned that when ICE hires more people in October it could trigger a national economic disaster—Montgomery County’s industries like construction, restaurants and hospitality may lose a key immigrant workforce and face empty rental units along with reduced tax revenue.
Montgomery Parks will host a forum on September 11 at 7 p.m. at the Wheaton headquarters to gather park users' feedback via an online survey for its next capital improvement program covering fiscal year 2027 to 2032.
The public input will help shape future funding and maintenance for county parks.
Montgomery County Corrections Director Ben Stevenson said more than 200 inmates are waiting for court-ordered mental health treatment because Maryland psychiatric hospitals do not have enough beds.
The wait time is 3-8 months & Montgomery County pays $209 per day for 52 inmates.
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.
Autumn Inspirations Craft Show
11 AM – 3 PM — Kentlands Mansion — Free entry — Celebrate fall with handcrafted goods from local artisans at the historic Kentlands Mansion.
Dance Adult Fitness Class
7:10-8:00 p.m. — North Creek Community Center & Pool — Check website for pricing — Groove into fitness with a vibrant dance fitness class led by Salsa Prince Fitness.
Lotería Night
5:30-7:30 p.m. — Casey Community Center — Family-friendly — Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a fun night of Lotería, crafts, and community connection.
Parks Ale Trail
11 AM – 3 PM — Lake Needwood, Rock Creek Regional Park — Cost info not provided — Enjoy craft beers, live music, and scenic hiking at the annual Parks Ale Trail.
Mini-Golf and Picnic with Gaithersburg Police
10:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Enjoy a fun-filled morning of mini-golf followed by a delightful picnic lunch.
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