Good morning, Rockville.

State grants totaling $1.8 million were awarded to 480 Club, CHEER, and Identity Inc. to fight child poverty, Gov. Moore announced Sept.

30. CHEER in Long Branch will open a Thrive Center soon — 480 Club and Identity Inc. will lead community programs in Montgomery Village and Gaithersburg.

A grease fire at KPOT Korean BBQ and Hot Pot on Randolph Road near Nebel Street (Montrose Crossing) caused over $500K in damage on Sept.

30, though all workers and customers evacuated safely and firefighters swiftly controlled the blaze.

WorkSource Montgomery launched its new small business portal Thursday, Oct.

1, that helps entrepreneurs and employers connect with county resources + support. Developed with the Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation, the website serves as a one-stop shop for startups and former federal workers planning their own business.

Gene's Costumes in Kensington reopened on Thursday—ending a three-year closure due to an electrical fire—and is now ready for Halloween with expanded hours at 10636 Connecticut Ave as owner Ginger Ager welcomes regular customers.

Comedians Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood will perform an improv show at Strathmore in North Bethesda on Sunday at 4 p.m. Their act features audience participation and promises fun for local comedy fans.

MCPS Superintendent Thomas Taylor responded to local Jewish leaders urging improved action against rising school antisemitism – he pledged a collaborative plan led by the chief equity officer to address communication and safety.

Montgomery County Department of Transportation added new traffic signals near local schools to improve pedestrian safety after data showed most serious injuries occur at intersections.

The measures aim to protect students + community members with safer crossings.

After a Tuesday power outage disrupted operations and prompted water use restrictions, WSSC Water is in the next phase of repairs at its Potomac Water Filtration Plant to restore electrical systems and normal service; the utility said teams will inspect the systems and update customers (further details to come).

On Thursday, a federal rule disqualified up to 4,500 noncitizen Maryland residents—eligible for Medicaid—from coverage, risking treatment delays for serious conditions.

State officials also saw a $57 million rise in SNAP administrative costs, which could strain local health and community resources.

The Bulldogs stayed unbeaten with a 2-1 win over the Wildcats in Bethesda on Oct.

1 as Noor Neama sealed the win with a 25‑yard rocket, and the Wildcats scored on a late penalty.