Good morning, Rockville.

Cathy Bernard, a business owner in Chevy Chase, was named the 2025 Philanthropist of the Year by the Greater Washington Community Foundation—she supports local nonprofits by providing food assistance, funding the arts and mentoring students.

Bernard also leads a quarterly leadership group for women executives at Strathmore and has helped groups such as Imagination Stage and Sunflower Bakery through her direct style.

Montgomery County Economic Development Corp named Jared Smith as its new president and CEO starting Dec.

8, replacing Bill Tompkins who left in August. A video shows an Arrive Silver Spring resident reporting rat infestation issues — and Quince Orchard High School, now ranked No. 4, will face a playoff game Friday against Charles Hubert Flowers High School.

WMATA launched Tap. Ride.

Go. on Tuesday—allowing Metrobus riders to pay with contactless credit, debit, Apple Pay or Google Pay instead of using a SmarTrip card. Most rides cost $2.25 while express buses cost $4.80, and customers who use the same card for transfers between bus and rail will receive a discount.

Montgomery County’s inspector general report found (based on the internal review) that MCPS spent about $1 million without board approval and that seven active employees were improperly hired (without following proper procedures).

PJM board voted against a proposal on Wednesday that would offer data centers incentives to use private power to lower electric bills, a decision that may raise costs for local customers+ officials said they will review further proposals before deciding on next steps.

Montgomery County Public Schools is hosting operating budget listening sessions to gather community feedback on future budget plans.

Community members can call MCPS for details.

Blake High basketball star Baba Oladotun committed to play for Maryland next season after choosing the school over Georgetown—his decision was influenced by the short 20-minute drive from his Silver Spring home.

He thanked his family, coaches, and teammates for their support.

Maryland Christmas Show

10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Entry details not specified — Explore a variety of artisan works for holiday shopping at this festive event.

Shannon Leigh and The Good Bygones Live Performance

5-7:30 p.m. — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $10 Suggested Donation — Experience energetic bluegrass with rising stars of the DC scene.

Meet and Greet at Taco Bamba

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Taco Bamba Gaithersburg — Free entry — Connect with others at this unique taqueria and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

The Thrills Live in Rockville

9:00 PM — Hank Dietle's Tavern — $10 Cover — Experience spine-tingling rock n’ roll with local music heroes.

Yoga: Breath and Movement Course

7-8 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Check website for entry details — Experience a Viniyoga-inspired class focusing on breath and seamless flow through postures.

Hanukkah Celebration for Families

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Casey Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the joy of Hanukkah with crafts, games, and tasty snacks for all ages.

The Longtimers Live Performance

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

White's Ferry Nature Walk and Lunch

10:20 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Cost not specified — Take a scenic 1.5-mile walk followed by lunch at Bassetts in Poolesville, MD.

Silver Spring B&O Station December Open House

10 AM – 2 PM — Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station — Free entry — Explore local history with family activities and special guests showcasing inventive creations.

Memoir Writers Club

12:30-2 p.m. — Benjamin Gaither Center — Free entry — Explore your memories and creativity in a supportive community of writers.

Lead School Bus Driver - $1,000 Signing Bonus!

Job Type: Non-Exempt, Hourly, Split Shift, Seasonal, 7.5 hours a day / 37.5 hours a week (August through June) 6:00-9:30AM & 3:00-7:00PM Salary Range: $28.50 To $32.50 Hourly In addition to base compensation, this position is eligible for: paid time off, paid holidays, summer stipend for returning drivers, and health and retirement benefits enrollment, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 403(b) plan.