Good morning, Rockville.

Non-profit groups in Montgomery County are planning to feed needy families as SNAP benefits will be suspended on November 1 due to the government shutdown + they are organizing food distribution efforts to help those in need.

Montgomery County public elementary and middle schools ranked in the state’s top 10 based on U.S. News and World Report released Oct 28, with Rockville’s Robert Frost Middle School moving up to No. 7 — the list uses state test scores, performance of low-income students and student-to-teacher ratios. Bethesda and Potomac schools also shifted positions as rankings for 2026 were calculated.

Montgomery County Public Schools Superintendent Thomas Taylor announced on Oct.

13 that he will recommend closing Silver Spring International Middle School by 2031 as part of a $2.7 billion Capital Improvements Program — many parents reported feeling blindsided by the proposal. The school board will hold public hearings in November to gather community input before voting on the measure.

Maryland comptroller Brooke Lierman announced Monday a deferral plan for federal workers on state tax payment plans to delay their payments during the shutdown and for up to 60 days after it ends — affected workers must email their details to apply.

In Montgomery County, an animal rescue reported a spike in dog surrenders as many pet owners face financial strains from delayed paychecks amid the government shutdown.

The rescue and county services said some federal workers and others are giving up pets (with a pet food pantry scheduled for Nov. 9 and Dec. 14) and a donation drive planned (this weekend) to support struggling owners.

Montgomery, Prince George's and St. Mary's counties reported an increase in hand, foot and mouth disease with 45 clusters in Prince George's schools by Oct 24 and additional cases on Oct 27, while Montgomery County confirmed 38 cases in early childhood centers compared to nine last year. Health officials advise frequent hand washing and keeping children home until symptoms clear up — the illness usually fades within a week.

Maryland health officials launched a new data dashboard on Monday that shows numbers for COVID-19, influenza, and RSV as the winter holidays approach.

The dashboard offers weekly updates on hospitalizations, deaths and vaccination rates to help families and health providers know how illnesses are spreading.

Suddenly Seymour, an affectionate Great Dane with a calm demeanor, is ready for adoption from the Humane Rescue Alliance—he enjoys long walks and cozy time with his favorite people, making him a gentle companion for a loving home.

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.

The Longtimers Concert

8-11 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $10 Cover — Enjoy high energy Americana roots rock from DC's finest old-school band.

The Roustabouts Blues-Fiddle Band

9 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $10 cover — Experience the electrifying blend of blues and fiddle by DC's finest band.

Singles Nature Walk and Lunch

12-2 p.m. — Crystal Rock Trail — Free entry — Enjoy a scenic nature walk followed by a casual lunch gathering.

Circlesinging Together

3-5 p.m. — Elwood Smith Community Center — Free entry — Experience a unique community singing event where the joy of song brings everyone together.