Good morning, Rockville.

A new economic report from the Comptroller’s Office found that Maryland lost 2.3 million residents since 2010 as high housing costs and strict building rules pushed people to states like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

The report warns that rising outmigration among young and low-income households may hurt state revenue—Gov. Moore is working to ease permit delays to spur new housing projects.

Vickie Owens has spent 50 years driving buses for Montgomery County Public Schools, joyfully talking with students at each of her routes.

She began in 1975 and now drives at Watkins Mill High School and two elementary schools — her cheerful dedication is highlighted during National School Bus Safety Week.

Montgomery County Public Schools is moving ahead with a plan to group high schools into six regions with themed programs—such as STEM and health—to provide fair access for all students.

Officials will release a final proposal in November, present a recommendation in January, and schedule a board vote in March while hosting online community sessions.

On Wednesday, the Maryland Board of Public Works approved cutting 502 state jobs as part of measures to address a $121 million budget gap, with 332 positions ending through a Voluntary Separation Program (providing a lump sum and benefits) and an additional 170 vacant positions eliminated (expected to save $10.5 million in FY 2026 and $22 million in FY 2027).

Montgomery Planning held its Design Excellence Awards on October 22 and honored three local projects for design excellence.

Strathmore Square in North Bethesda won the top prize—The Sophia in Bethesda and a downtown plaza also received awards.

Montgomery County officials said SNAP benefits will pause starting November 1 if the shutdown does not end, which is putting pressure on food banks like Manna Food Center that help thousands—rising grocery prices and federal layoffs have spurred a surge in food assistance requests.

Montgomery County has opened a Federal Worker Career Center in Wheaton to help over 200 displaced federal workers with career coaching — a bill for an extra appropriation of $180,000 was introduced and a public hearing is set for November 4 at 1:30 p.m.

Corey Burr, a DC-area real estate broker, said the housing market held strong during the government shutdown with home sales and prices rising but noted that federal workers are pausing their home searches—fueling concerns over job security and delays in government loan programs.

He warned that if the shutdown continues, the region could face a recession similar to 2008—making buyers cautious about long-term investments.

Andy Shulman and the Pike District Partnership rebranded North Bethesda’s urban core as the Pike District after the area’s identity shifted from White Flint.

They promoted mixed-use developments and a community dog park—efforts that faced delays from stalled federal funds—while planning future infrastructure improvements.

The MPSSAA boys soccer regional playoffs begin this week in Montgomery County with top seeds in 4A including the Northwest Jaguars, Churchill Bulldogs and Blake Bengals and in 3A with the Rockville Rams leading their group.

Winners from Wednesday matchups will advance to state competition—local teams aim to progress further this season.

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.

Dan Hovey Live Performance

5:30-7 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No Cover — Enjoy an evening with former Nighthawks guitarist Dan Hovey playing fingerstyle tunes in a lively tavern setting.

David Goodfriend and Skip Casale Live Performance

5:30-7 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — No cover — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt original tunes and blues that invite everyone to participate in the music experience.