North Bethesda

In May 2022 we let you know that Federal Realty proposed a plan to transform what they referred to as the underutilized site of the Federal Plaza West property located at 1776 E. Jefferson Street, North Bethesda, Maryland (many consider the area Rockville) into a “thriving mixed-use development containing up to 500 units, up to a total of 108,965 square feet of retail uses (103,965 square feet of existing to be retained, and up to 5,000 square feet new), a half-acre public open space, and street-scape improvements.” Last week, the Montgomery County Planning Board approved the plan.

The Property is currently known as Federal Plaza West, which includes approximately 135,446 square feet of retail, including the former location of a Planet Fitness gym, which will soon be the home of MoCo’s first DMV Iron Gym location, and other retailers located in a two/three story structure constructed along the Property’s shared property line with Lot 1. A Panera Bread pad site and associated surface parking is located in the southwest quadrant of the Property, according to project plans.


Bethesda

Dog Haus Biergarten, which has three Montgomery County locations (Gaithersburg, Bethesda, and Silver Spring), is offering a free hot dog to those who text FREE DOG to 833.440.1110. “We can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Hot Dog Day than offering a free Haus Dog to all our fans,” says Dog Haus Co-Founder André Vener. “We have the best hot dogs and sausages in the business – the industry’s gold standard. We hope to get a Haus Dog into the hands of hot dog lovers far and wide as we celebrate our favorite day of the year!”

The restaurant recent announced that all three of its Montgomery County locations will be offering delivery service 24 hours a day, making it one of the only non-fast food restaurants offering 24-7 delivery service in the area.  Dog Haus’ virtual brands, including Bad Ass Breakfast Burritos, Plant B (All plant base food) Impossible Shop, Bad Mutha Cluka and Jail Bird (all chicken options), are also available 24-7.


Kensington

On Monday we let you know of a NextDoor post depicting a fake speed camera that was built in a Kensington neighborhood on McComas Ave. The post has received over 170 comments and network news coverage, which has led to the removal of the speed camera. A neighbor stated, “the county sent someone to remove this but I intercepted them. If the builder would like their art back– contact me.” Another neighbor shared a picture of a flyer posted on a light pole with – picture of the structure and the words “RIP July 14, 2023 – July 17, 2023”.

The “speed camera” was filled with books and appeared to double as a version of a “Little Free Library”, a space that allows neighbors to take and drop off books for the community. The structure was discovered by Kensington resident Jake Meer just past his front yard. “Just returned from vacation to see a fake “speed cam” was erected in front of my house on McComas.” Meer wrote on NextDoor. “I’m a bit concerned about the liability factor: poorly made with glue gun and cheap plexiglass, storms/ wind blowing it over, library aspect distracting a driver, etc. THAT SAID, I totally get the utility factor, as people drive way too fast down McComas and it needs to be safer.”


Sponsored

It’s Asian American Pacific Islander Month, and what better way to celebrate the culture than to immerse oneself at the Anne Arundel Asian American Festival outside of Annapolis on May 31st?

Or didn’t get enough Irish last month? Two of the biggest Irish acts returns to the stage with Gaelic Storm and Carbon Leaf. See below for more details and information!

All events are family-friendly, packed with food, live music, interactive experiences, and now even more ways to get active.

To kick things off, you can save 20% on tickets with code MOCOSHOW (valid through May 31 for general admission tickets).

2026 Festival Lineup

Annapolis Irish Festival

May 29 & 30

Experience the spirit of Ireland right here in Annapolis with two days of live music, great food, and high-energy performances. Headlined by internationally recognized acts like Scythian, Gaelic Storm, and Carbon Leaf, the Annapolis Irish Festival blends traditional Irish culture with modern rock festival vibes.

Haven’t heard of Gaelic Storm? Are you sure? They were the band in James Cameron’s Titanic and went from local stars to national powerhouses. We are lucky to have them right here in Maryland so don’t miss out!

Enjoy Guinness, Irish whiskey tastings, craft beverages, local vendors, and nonstop entertainment in a setting that brings thousands together to celebrate Irish heritage.

Anne Arundel Asian American Festival

May 31

Celebrate culture, community, and cuisine at the Anne Arundel Asian American Festival, a vibrant showcase of food, performances, and traditions from across Asia!

Come hungry and enjoy authentic dishes from a wide range of vendors, cultural performances throughout the day, and interactive experiences for all ages. This family-friendly event highlights the diversity and energy of the Asian American community during AAPI Heritage Month.

Food vendors include:

Namit Filipino, Ekiben, Bun’d Up, E-San Thai, MD Brad Butcher and Central Asian dishes, Thai Pinto, Pho Wheels, and The Sister House! (more…)


Maryland

Per the State of Maryland: Governor Wes Moore today launched the Maryland ActNow campaign in partnership with EducationSuperHighway, reaffirming the Moore-Miller administration’s commitment to closing the digital divide by extending broadband internet access to all Marylanders and making it more affordable. The governor was joined by U.S. Department of Commerce Deputy Secretary Don Graves, state and local officials, and leadership from non-profit EducationSuperHighway to illustrate the campaign partnership, part of an effort that will also deploy $267 million in federal funding to support Maryland’s broadband infrastructure.

“Access to the internet is no longer optional – it is essential and nobody should be locked out of the internet because of their income or where they live,” said Gov. Moore. “When it comes to getting folks online, our administration is very clear: we will not rest until every single Marylander has access to affordable and reliable internet. The discounts offered under this program and the investments we are making have the power to expand opportunities for Marylanders across the state. Leaving no one behind means getting everyone online.”


Event

Historic Indigenous Recognition Event to Take Place in Montgomery County, Maryland

The Taino American Indigenous National Organization (T.A.I.N.O.) proudly announces its upcoming signature public event,


MoCo Government

Per Montgomery County: The Montgomery County Council voted (7-4) today to enact Bill 15-23, Rent Stabilization, which establishes maximum allowable rent increases to the lesser of the local annual Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) plus three percent or six percent of the base rent.

“Rent stabilization is a complex and emotionally charged issue, balancing the needs of our tenants in providing stable housing protection while allowing landlords the flexibility to invest and enhance in their properties within the County,” said Councilmember Katz. “I am pleased the Council found the right compromise and path forward to enact this bill.”


MoCo Government

Councilmember Jawando stressed the importance of advancing rent stabilization and its impact on residents, particularly the nearly 40 percent of Montgomery County residents who rent who are disproportionately people of color. “Stability and predictability are essential for our community. When families are evicted or are forced to move because the rent is unsustainable, it destabilizes our schools and uproots communities. This amended bill will protect our most vulnerable renters but it will also help all residents seeking affordable rental housing.”

The compromise bill, 15-23 Rent Stabilization, prevents rent gouging, reduces displacement and creates cost predictability for tenants and landlords by:


North Bethesda

Mark your calendars for a new culinary experience as Chef Max Zelenkov, an entrepreneur who once navigated the challenges of adapting to a new culture, proudly announces the grand opening of La Table Du Chateau on Saturday, July 22, 2023 (weekends 8am-3pm). Situated inside of The Block at Pike and Rose (967 Rose Ave. North Bethesda), this breakfast and brunch destination invites guests to savor the delightful flavors of French cuisine, blended with a touch of home and a dash of international inspiration.

Chef Max Zelenkov’s journey began when he emigrated as Ukrainian/Russian native to the United States and was raised and pursued his education in Montgomery County. MoCo, a melting pot of culture and tradition, was the perfect setting to foster Chef Max’s fascination with the world’s diverse culinary traditions.


Gaithersburg

The Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) has hosted its 29th Annual Public Safety Awards Breakfast honoring men and women who provide public safety in the Upcounty. A total of 39 public safety officials from several jurisdictions were recognized and awarded a citation from the Maryland State Senate and Congressman David Trone.

The awards ceremony took place on Friday, June 14 at 7:30am at the Montgomery County Agricultural Center in Gaithersburg.The program with details on each award winner can be seen in the links above. A link to the photo album from the event is available here.


Burtonsville

Per MCPD: The Special Victims Investigations Division is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing 15-year-old. Neveah Washington was last seen on Sunday, July 16, 2023, in the 14200 block of Castle Blvd in Burtonsville. She is 5’4″, 140 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Neveah Washington is asked to call Montgomery County Police Non-Emergency (301) 279-8000 (24-hour line).

Concern for Missing Fifteen-Year-Old


MDLottery

The Powerball drawing scheduled to take place Wednesday, July 19, has an estimated jackpot of $1 billion, with an estimated cash option of $516.8 million. Powerball drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. On Monday, $500,000 winning Double Play ticket was sold at Westway Liquors located at 5312 Edmondson Avenue in Catonsville, MD. The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million. The odds of winning a prize are 1 in 24.9. Additional details below courtesy of Powerball:

For the third time ever, the Powerball® jackpot has reached the one billion dollar mark! The jackpot is currently estimated at $1 billion for the next drawing on Wednesday, July 19. The jackpot has an estimated cash value of $516.8 million. The jackpot ranks as the seventh largest U.S. lottery jackpot and third largest Powerball jackpot, only behind the world record $2.04 billion Powerball jackpot won last year, and the $1.586 billion Powerball jackpot won in 2016.


Gaithersburg

Auntie Anne’s/Cinnabon combination restaurant opened last week at 220 Boardwalk Place in Rio, taking over the location that was recently home to Lilly Magilly’s– as the cupcakery is still preparing for a move to a new location. Until today, the restaurant had only Cinnabon products available. Auntie Anne’s pretzels have made their debut today as the new oven has arrived and employees are working towards stocking the display counter.

The two brands, popular for their presence in malls, are co-branding to open locations across the country. In recent years, Cinnabon left then returned to Montgomery Mall. There’s also an existing Cinnabon location in Wheaton Mall. Auntie Anne’s has locations at the outlets in Clarksburg, Ellsworth Place Mall, Montgomery Mall, and Wheaton Mall in MoCo.