Olney

Construction is moving forward on Qdoba’s upcoming Olney location, with a new permit issued for interior work at the future restaurant. A permit valued at $200,000 has been approved for construction at 3486 Olney Laytonsville Road in the Olney Shopping Center, signaling continued progress toward the restaurant’s opening. The space was previously occupied by Eco Cleaners and is located next to Royal Bagel Bakery.

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Announcement

McMillan Pazdan Smith (MPS) is announcing its acquisition of Smolen Emr Ilkovitch Architects (SEI) of Rockville, Maryland. This partnership expands MPS’s presence into the U.S. Mid-Atlantic with a new studio and grows the reach of the firm’s K12 architecture, interior design, planning, and advisory practice to clients in Maryland, Northern Virginia, and the surrounding region. The addition reinforces the firm’s place among the top 25 K-12 architecture practices in the United States. 

“We are excited to welcome SEI to the MPS firm family. The SEI team shares our commitment to purposeful and expert design and project execution, exceptional client service, and deep community–centered relationships and presence,” says Chad Cousins, CEO, McMillan Pazdan Smith. “Together, we will support the continued growth, vibrancy, and sustainability of the DMV region with long term community investments, and industry-leading design, planning, and advisory value.”


Event

“This little composition…is, alas, the final mortal sin of my old age. A little technique, a little heart, that is all.”

Gioachino Rossini’s "Petite Messe Solennelle" is neither little nor entirely solemn. Yet beneath the wit and irony of its title lies one of Rossini’s most personal creations, which blends the theatrical brilliance and unforgettable melodies of his comic operas—including extraordinary and virtuosic arias—with an almost uncharacteristic tenderness and spiritual depth.


MoCo Government

Montgomery County Council committees will meet on Thursday, April 16 to review a wide range of Fiscal Year 2027 operating budgets, including funding for multiple government offices, non-departmental accounts, and major agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services, WSSC Water, and the Office of Management and Budget.

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MoCo

 

Buzz has been building across Montgomery County’s dining scene, with several upcoming restaurants generating strong interest from readers and across social media in recent months. Based on views, likes, and shares, five spots in particular have stood out as the most talked-about projects, each at a different stage on the path to opening in our April edition. Listed in alphabetical order, here’s a look at the places creating the most anticipation right now.


Events

Montgomery Parks is inviting the community to come together this weekend for a free, inclusive event celebrating Autism Acceptance Month at Wheaton Regional Park. “Shine Brighter Together” will take place on Saturday, April 18 from 11am to 2pm at 2000 Shorefield Road in Wheaton. The family-friendly event is designed to bring together individuals of all abilities for an afternoon of sensory-friendly activities, performances, and hands-on experiences.

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