Damascus

A Damascus Maryland man has pled guilty to distribution of controlled dangerous substances and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in Maryland and West Virginia, Montgomery County Police reports.

According to a press release, from May 2016 through July 2018, 38-year-old Adebowale Ojo distributed crack cocaine, cocaine and heroin to users and street level dealers in Montgomery County, Frederick County and West Virginia.


Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Larry Hogan today issued the following statement:

“For nearly eight years, we have been fighting to end the gerrymandering monopoly that has for too long been a shameful legacy of our state. This ruling is a monumental victory for every Marylander who cares about protecting our democracy, bringing fairness to our elections, and putting the people back in charge. It puts in plain view the partisan, secretive, and rigged process that led to the legislature’s illegal and unconstitutional maps.


Restaurants

Updated to reflect that it has taken over the former site of Pizza Palace.

Apna Pizza is coming to 14050 Travilah Rd in Rockville, the former site of Pizza Palace. The new pizzeria is currently under construction and representatives from the restaurant tell us that they hope to be open in mid-to-late April.


Bethesda

Hip Flask, the rooftop bar that’s inside of The Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ, will be opening up a few weeks later than previously anticipated. Representatives tell us the bar now plans to open on Tuesday, May 3rd

Hip Flask will serve small plates and craft cocktails. The new hotel also features a 360 degree lobby bar. Seventh State, the hotel’s restaurant, which includes a built-in Italian wood oven and indoor/outdoor seating opened earlier this month.


Beyond MoCo

On Thursday, Governor Hogan announced $45 million in violent crime initiatives to address “out-of-control violent crime” in Baltimore. The money will be used to expand warrant initiatives in Baltimore City, as well as additional funding to victim services providers.

Press release from Governor Hogan’s Office below:


Arts

 Andrew Italia is an attorney in Rockville, 2001 Quince Orchard High School graduate, and MoCo resident. When he was in college at the University of Maryland, he was the movie critic for The Maryland Diamondback.

During his time as the movie critic, he began making Oscar predictions for all 24 categories. His all-time record is 21 out of 24, but he usually falls in the 18-20 range.


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