 This week, County Executive Elrich returned from his recent economic mission to Taiwan and India by celebrating the opening of Samsung Biologics’ first U.S. manufacturing facility here in Montgomery County. This important economic win reinforces Montgomery County’s role in the global biohealth industry and reflects years of international outreach to attract new companies and investment. The County Executive attends the World Vaccine Congress while stressing the importance of vaccines to our public health. He also encourages residents to participate in upcoming County Council budget hearings next week, recognizes the swift response of our police, local employees, and residents during a recent shooting in Germantown and recognizes the beginning of April as Earth month.
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Montgomery County Marks Opening of Samsung Biologics’ First U.S. Manufacturing Facility
 Montgomery County leaders joined State officials and industry partners in Rockville to celebrate the opening of Samsung Biologics’ first U.S. manufacturing facility. The $353 million acquisition of the former GSK manufacturing campus will retain more than 500 jobs and strengthen the County’s position within one of the nation’s leading biohealth clusters.
The new facility adds significant biomanufacturing capacity and reflects continued global investment in Montgomery County’s life sciences ecosystem, which is anchored by federal agencies, research institutions, and private sector innovation. The project also builds on ongoing international partnerships that support economic growth and job creation in the region.
Celebrate Earth Month Throughout April with Hands-On Events Across Montgomery County
 This April, residents are invited to celebrate Earth Month with Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection through hands-on events that promote sustainable living and environmental stewardship.
From community cleanups and clothing swaps to workshops, GreenFest, and the Montgomery County Energy Summit, there are many ways to get involved, learn new skills, and make a local impact. Events throughout the month include opportunities to explore electric vehicles, reduce waste, and support a cleaner, greener community.
Take Action for Your Well Being During National Public Health Week, April 6–12
 Montgomery County will mark National Public Health Week (Monday, April 6, through Sunday, April 12) with free events and activities that highlight the programs and partnerships helping residents stay healthy. Led by the Department of Health and Human Services and community partners, this year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Action!,” focuses on prevention, access to care, and reducing health disparities.
Residents are invited to participate in events throughout the week, including virtual discussions, community walks, workshops, and hands-on trainings. Additional programming will also be offered through Montgomery County Public Libraries and the African American Health Program.
Reminder: Free Student Vaccination Clinics Open Through Monday, April 6, to Help Families Meet Maryland School Immunization Requirements
 The Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services will host free student vaccination clinics through Monday, April 6, during spring break, to help families meet Maryland school immunization requirements and avoid potential exclusion from school.
Free vaccines are available to all Montgomery County Public Schools students, regardless of insurance status, including required Tdap and meningococcal (MCV) vaccines for seventh graders, as well as HPV, MMR, varicella, meningococcal B, and COVID-19 vaccines. Parents and guardians should review their child’s immunization records and schedule an appointment.
Montgomery County Middle Schools Invited to Transform a Snowplow in the 'Paint the Plow' Contest; Registration Open Through Friday, April 10
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) invites public middle schools across the County to participate in the fifth annual "Paint the Plow" competition. Schools can name and decorate a snowplow for a chance to win cash prizes. Middle schools must register online by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 10, to participate.
Participation is free, and MCDOT will provide paint supplies. This year’s plow design theme aligns with the National Public Works Week theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community.” The theme highlights the essential role public works teams play every day.
Each participating school will design, paint, and name its plow. Winning schools will receive cash prizes of $500 for first place, $300 for second place, and $200 for third place, with the money typically supporting art programs or student clubs. The decorated snowplows will be deployed across the County during winter storms.
‘Right from the Start’ Event on Saturday, April 11, Supports Families and Healthy Beginnings
 Montgomery County’s Babies Born Healthy program, part of the Department of Health and Human Services, along with the Improved Pregnancy Outcomes Programs and Peridom Insights, will host the sixth annual "Right from the Start" event on Saturday, April 11, in Silver Spring. This free community event supports Black parents and families from preconception through early childhood with resources, expert-led discussions, and family-friendly activities.
The event is free, but registration is required. Register on the "Right from the Start" Eventbrite page.
Held in recognition of Black Maternal Health Week and National Public Health Week, the event focuses on improving outcomes and addressing disparities in maternal and infant health. Attendees can connect with community organizations, hear from local leaders and parents, and access resources on topics such as prenatal care, mental health, breastfeeding, and fatherhood involvement.
The event will also feature children’s activities, prizes, and free child care.
Commission on Child Care in Need of More Volunteer Members
 Montgomery County is seeking applicants to fill 17 vacancies on the Commission on Child Care. The application deadline is Wednesday, April 15.
Open positions include:
- Five members of the business community or general public.
- Five parents of a child currently receiving child care.
- Seven providers of child care services.
Up to seven current members are eligible to apply for reappointment.
The 25-member Commission advises the County Executive and County Council on policies, programs, and services that support high-quality, affordable, and accessible child care. The Commission also works with the County’s Department of Health and Human Services to help develop initiatives that assist families in meeting their child care needs.
Inaugural Taste of Burtonsville Set for Saturday, April 25
Montgomery County will host the inaugural Taste of Burtonsville on Saturday, April 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center. The new, family-friendly event will bring together residents, local restaurants, and community partners to celebrate the area’s diverse food and culture.
Attendees can sample a variety of international and American cuisine from local vendors, enjoy live music, and participate in children's activities. The event highlights the vibrancy of the Burtonsville community while supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.
The Marilyn J. Praisner Community Recreation Center is located at 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burstonsville.
Montgomery County Partners with Leadership Montgomery to Support Federal Contractors
Montgomery County has selected the nonprofit, Leadership Montgomery, to support an effort led by the County’s Business Center to help local businesses adapt to shifts in federal procurement, funding, and policy.
Through this partnership, Leadership Montgomery will develop programs including a major business conference, monthly training sessions, and a year-long cohort program to assist entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and small businesses affected by federal policy changes.
As part of this effort, Leadership Montgomery will host the LEAD Forum: Business Resilience on Thursday, April 30, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building.
The conference will feature expert speakers, workshops, networking, and resources to help organizations navigate procurement changes and identify new opportunities. Attendance is expected to reach 200–300 participants. Registration is now open.
The Silver Spring Civic Building is located at 1 Veterans Place in Silver Spring.
Get Ready for the 2026 Election, Including Board of Education Races
Montgomery County residents are encouraged to get ready for the 2026 election, which includes Board of Education contests that will help shape the future of local public schools.
The Primary Election is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, with early voting taking place June 11–18. Several Board of Education seats will appear on the ballot, allowing voters to help select candidates who will advance to the general election.
Residents can choose to vote by mail, vote early, or vote on Election Day. Voters who wish to receive a mail-in ballot must submit a request by June 16. Those who have already requested a mail-in ballot will receive it by mail ahead of the election and should follow the instructions to return it on time.
Residents are encouraged to check their voter registration status, confirm their voting method, and make a plan to vote. For key dates, registration information, and voting options, visit the Montgomery County Board of Elections website.
PreK and Head Start Registration Now Open for 2026–2027 School Year
 Montgomery County families can now register their children for PreK and Head Start programs for the 2026–2027 school year.
Parents and caregivers may apply online through the ParentVUE system or through a separate application for private providers. In-person registration support is also available this month at County government locations, with additional opportunities at CentroNía in April and May.
These early childhood programs help prepare young learners for success in school by supporting academic, social, and emotional development.
Families are encouraged to apply early and learn more about eligibility, required documents, and registration options on the Montgomery County Public Schools website.
Join the Effort to Reduce Litter This Earth Month
 Montgomery County’s Department of Environmental Protection is encouraging residents to “Keep It Clean, Montgomery” as part of an Earth Month campaign to reduce litter and protect local waterways.
The campaign highlights how litter travels through storm drains into streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay, and encourages simple actions like securing trash and recycling, picking up litter, and reporting problem areas to 311. In the past year alone, volunteers and County crews collected nearly 54 tons of litter across the community.
Residents also can take part in a spring cleanup event on Saturday, April 11, in Silver Spring. Volunteers will help remove litter from local neighborhoods, with supplies provided and student service learning hours available.
Hop on the Spring Eye Spy Trains This April
Families can celebrate the spring season by riding the Spring Eye Spy Train at Cabin John and Wheaton Regional Parks. This spring-themed miniature train ride invites children and adults alike to enjoy a fun and interactive outdoor experience.
Each rider receives an Eye Spy card featuring seasonal items to spot along the tracks, adding a playful twist to the ride. Trains will operate on select dates through April, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Tickets are $6 per person and can be purchased online in advance; limited tickets are available onsite. Children under age 2 ride free with a paying adult.
Train operations are weather-dependent, so residents are encouraged to check Montgomery Parks online for the latest status before visiting.
Wheaton Invites Public Input on Future of Arts and Entertainment District
Residents, businesses, and visitors are invited to share their ideas and priorities for the future of the Wheaton Arts and Entertainment District by participating in a new public survey.
The survey is part of an ongoing effort to gather community input as Wheaton plans its next chapter as a vibrant arts and cultural destination. Feedback will help guide future programming, public space improvements, and investments that support artists, creative businesses, and the broader community.
Wheaton’s Arts and Entertainment District is known for its cultural diversity, locally owned businesses, and active public spaces. Community input will play a key role in shaping how the district continues to grow while maintaining its unique character. The survey, which takes only a few minutes to complete, will remain open through Friday, May 15.
Add Color to Your Garden This Spring with Local Plant Sales
Spring is the perfect time to grow a garden and support local nature spaces in Montgomery County.
From April 3–17, Maydale Nature Classroom in Colesville is hosting its Spring Online Plant Sale, featuring native plants that attract birds, beneficial insects, and other wildlife. Plants can be selected and paid for online, with prescheduled pickup on Saturday, April 25. Proceeds from the sale benefit Maydale Nature Classroom and help sustain its environmental education programs.
On Sunday, April 19, Brookside Gardens in Wheaton will host the Friends of Brookside Gardens Plant Sale. The event offers a wide selection of perennials, shrubs, and trees, with expert advice available from master gardeners and staff horticulturists. Proceeds support ongoing efforts to beautify Brookside Gardens. Friends of Brookside Gardens members can shop early from 9–10 a.m., with the public welcome from 10 a.m.–1 p.m., or until supplies run out. Admission is free.
These plant sales provide opportunities to enhance gardens, support local green spaces, and connect with Montgomery County’s gardening community.
Free Monthly Seminar: Separation and Divorce—What You Need to Know
The Montgomery County Commission for Women, in partnership with the Montgomery County Bar Association’s Family Law Section, hosts a free monthly virtual seminar, “Separation and Divorce: What Do I Need to Know?” designed to help residents understand the legal and practical aspects of separation and divorce in Maryland.
The next session will take place on Wednesday, May 6, with sessions continuing on the first Wednesday of each month through June from 7–8:30 p.m. via Zoom.
Each session is led by family law attorneys practicing in Montgomery County and covers topics such as alimony, dispute resolution methods, financial statements, protective orders, property division, and when and where to file. A Zoom link will be provided following online registration.
2026 Gaithersburg Film Festival
 The City of Gaithersburg will present its Second Annual Gaithersburg Film Festival, Friday, April 10, through Sunday, April 12. The film festival is a celebration of the City’s remarkable diversity and creativity.
Recognized as one of the most diverse cities in the United States, Gaithersburg embraces cultures, identities, and perspectives from around the world—and this festival reflects that spirit by creating a platform for diverse creators and communities to share their stories, traditions, and artistic expressions through film.
Festivalgoers will enjoy an immersive and inspiring experience that celebrates the art of film, showcases the power of storytelling, and reflects the unique and vibrant diversity that defines Gaithersburg.
Department of Transportation Offers Low-Cost Bike and Electric Scooter Classes in April, May, and June
 The Montgomery County Department of Transportation will offer low-cost adult bike classes in April, May, and June, including nine Learn to Ride classes and one Basic Skills class. Two free, walk-up e-scooter classes will also be offered following select bike classes.
Advance registration is required for the bicycle classes. The cost is $10 for Montgomery County residents. There is no fee for members of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association or Capital Bikeshare for All; however, registration is still required.
Montgomery County’s Annual Street Sweeping Program to Begin This Month
The Montgomery County Department of Transportation's (MCDOT) annual street sweeping program will begin the first full week in April. This effort will run through July, and staff will sweep 4,100 lane miles of residential roadways.
MCDOT will post “No Parking” signs a few days before sweeping operations. Cars will not be towed for this effort; however, residents are asked to assist in making sure streets are clear of cars, as street sweepers will not be able to return to re-sweep areas where cars were parked.
Vendor Applications Now Open for 30th ‘Annual Taste of Wheaton: Maryland’s Culinary & Culture Festival’ on Sunday, June 7
 The Wheaton Urban District is now accepting applications from restaurants, food vendors, artisans, and community exhibitors to participate in the 30th “Annual Taste of Wheaton: Maryland’s Culinary & Culture Festival.” The festival will take place on Sunday, June 7, at Marian Fryer Town Plaza, located at 2424 Reedie Drive in Wheaton.
Each year, the festival draws thousands of residents and visitors to experience Wheaton’s food scene through tastings from local restaurants, international cuisine, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
Links to applications in English and Spanish are available in the press release.
Food Scrap Recycling Drop-Off Available at Three Farmers Markets
 The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection’s Waste Reduction and Recycling Section encourages residents to reduce food waste by using free food scrap recycling drop-off bins available at select farmers markets in Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Olney.
The County estimates that approximately 92,300 tons of food scraps were disposed of in the trash last year. Through the “Food Is Too Good to Waste” campaign, residents are encouraged to prevent waste by donating excess edible food—such as prepared foods, produce, and shelf-stable items—to food recovery organizations, helping address food insecurity.
In addition, residents can recycle inedible food scraps at the FreshFarm Downtown Silver Spring market on Saturdays beginning at 9 a.m., and at the Bethesda Central Farm Market and the Olney Farmers and Artists Market on Sundays at 9 a.m.
Accepted items include fruit and vegetable scraps, cooked foods, dairy (cheese and yogurt), eggshells, meat, fish and bones, and coffee grounds and tea leaves (without filters).
Register Today for the 2026 Montgomery County Energy Summit
 The Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection will host the 13th annual Montgomery County Energy Summit on April 28–29 at the Silver Spring Civic Building. Centered on the theme “Elevating Building Performance,” the summit brings together building owners, property managers, and sustainability professionals for two days of learning, networking, and hands-on innovation.
Paula Glover, president of the Alliance to Save Energy, will deliver the keynote address on Wednesday, April 29. New this year, participants can also join “Let’s Decarbonize! A Hands-on Building Decarbonization Workshop!” where small groups work through real building scenarios to develop practical decarbonization strategies.
Red Line Construction to Temporarily Close Three Metro Stations This Summer
 The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority will conduct major construction on the Red Line from Monday, July 6, through Monday, Sept. 7. During this time, Metrorail service will be suspended between the Grosvenor-Strathmore, Medical Center, and Bethesda stations. Free shuttle buses will replace train service and operate every five to eight minutes during regular Metrorail hours.
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