Good morning, Rockville.

Jan Weetjens was named executive director of Shepherd’s Table after serving as interim director since August—he replaces Manny Hidalgo, who led the nonprofit on Georgia Avenue for six years.

Weetjens said he is honored to take on the full-time role to support nourishment, dignity, and community programs for local neighbors.

Pepco proposed a plan to invest in the power grid that may cause higher energy bills for Maryland residents.

Officials will review the proposal and decide on its impact as it moves forward.

The D.C. region has seen more people aged 65 join while fewer young residents are counted, and experts say high housing costs, lower birth rates and more remote work options are behind this trend (census data shows rising numbers in Montgomery and Fairfax counties).

This shift may lead to a tougher fight for talent as communities try to attract young workers.

Mark Carothers, principal of Poolesville High School, discussed his 23-year career in education and the completion of a major construction project that added a new gym during National Principals Month.

He received the Western Montgomery County Champion Award — a recognition of his dedication to students and the community.

Montgomery County Public Schools faced a funding crisis as Superintendent Thomas Taylor warned that the district did not have enough money to fix over 230 aging school buildings - he requested $2.7 billion over six years - while enrollment declined.

His plan, which includes closing Silver Spring International Middle School - a measure that covers only half of the needed repairs - was presented to County Council on Tuesday and left parents calling for urgent fixes.

Montgomery County Public Schools superintendent Thomas Taylor asked for a 2.7 billion dollar capital budget to maintain and replace 238 aging school buildings, noting that construction costs have risen 42% over six years and true needs would actually reach 5.2 billion dollars; public meetings for feedback on the plan are scheduled for Oct. 23 and 28.

Wylea Chase, a former director at the Black and Brown Coalition—focused on educational equity—said she planned to run for an at-large seat on Montgomery County’s school board and has not yet filed her candidacy, with the filing deadline on Feb.

24. She seeks to improve decision-making for MCPS students and increase representation on the board.

After months in ICE custody, Hagerstown mother Melissa Tran returned home to reunite with her family—her legal fight to overturn the deportation order continues as community support remains strong.

The Montgomery County Consumer Protection Office warned federal workers and their families in Rockville about financial scams during the government shutdown since many are on unpaid leave or working without pay.

Officials urged residents to use trusted resources and contact county services at MC311—240-777-0311 if they have concerns about housing or utilities.

On Tuesday morning, county staff briefed councilmembers in Rockville that federal actions have created funding barriers for nonprofits and threatened food assistance as 473 grants were frozen and new SNAP work rules starting Nov.

1 will affect 6,377 residents—officials are planning supplemental appropriations and further briefings to address the impact.

Maryland seniors were notified that their Medicare Advantage plans will end next year and must choose new health plans during the Medicare Annual Election Period from Oct.

15 to Dec. 7 due to high hospital costs and fewer insurers operating in the state (Aetna and Humana). Many seniors worry that switching doctors and hospitals will bring added challenges as up to 100,000 recipients face reduced coverage (a result of Maryland’s unique payment rules).

2025 Antique and Classic Car Show

11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Rockville Civic Center — Free admission for spectators — Showcase of stunning antique and classic cars with awards and live music.

Bill Baker Band Live Performance

5:30-7 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No Cover — Enjoy award-winning local music from Bill Baker and friends during Happy Hour.

Patty Griffin and Rickie Lee Jones Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Music Center at Strathmore — Tickets required — Enjoy an enchanting evening of music with legendary artists Patty Griffin and Rickie Lee Jones.

Game Day at St. Veg

2-5 p.m. — St. Veg — Free entry — Enjoy a fun afternoon of games with friends and family at a local favorite venue.

Board Games and Pizza Gathering

1-3 p.m. — Wegmans Pharmacy — Free entry — Connect with fellow board game enthusiasts over pizza in a cozy cafe setting.

Jay Byrd Live Performance

5:30-7 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No Cover — Enjoy live Americana music from award-winning guitarist and songwriter Jay Byrd.

Deja' Voodoo Live Concert

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No Cover — Experience swampy, hypnotic bluesy rock 'n soul that will leave you gasping for air but begging for more!

Big Howdy Bluegrass Showcase Featuring Alice Gerrard

5-7:30 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $20 — Experience the legendary Alice Gerrard perform with her unique blend of traditional music and bluegrass influences.

Tom Mindte & Willie Barry with The Original Dixieland Rock n' Roll Band

6-9 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $15 — Experience an electrifying night of rock n' roll with Tom Mindte, Willie Barry, and a talented band lineup.

Tennis Session for 3.0 and Above Players

5-7 p.m. — Woodley Gardens Park — RSVP required — Enjoy a competitive tennis match in a welcoming environment while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.