Former Frederick County Councilmember Kai Hagen endorses Will Jawando in Maryland U.S. Senate race

Montgomery County Councilmember Will Jawando has been endorsed by former Frederick County Councilmember Kai Hagen (D) in the Maryland U.S. Senate race, his campaign announced this morning. Hagen has served as a Frederick County Commissioner and At-Large County Councilmember, as well as a youth athletics coach and community activist. He was a candidate for Frederick County Executive last year, but lost to fellow Democrat Jessica Fitzwater in the primary; Fitzwater went on to win a close general election contest against Republican Michael Hough.

The tight election result reflects the growing number of Democrats moving into the once-solid-red Frederick County. Its increasingly-purple downcounty, and fast-growing population, make it essential campaigning territory for candidates of both parties. Therein lies the value of a veteran Frederick politician's endorsement for Jawando, and one that may carry weight in the primary race, in particular.

"I've dedicated my career to many of the issues that matter most to Marylanders: protecting our environment, combating climate change, fighting sprawl while supporting thriving communities with affordable housing, public transit and great schools," Hagen said in a statement this morning. "I've had the pleasure of knowing and working with Will Jawando for a number of years, and I know he will put these important issues front and center. Will’s work on the Montgomery County Council to address and expand affordable housing in a meaningful way has been outstanding. He's an outspoken defender of our environment and public health, and I am confident that a U.S. Senator Jawando will work courageously and smartly to tackle our climate crisis, for our children and all future generations. I look forward to supporting Will in the Senate as he works to build the best possible future for our state and country."

"I am honored to receive former Councilmember Kai Hagen’s endorsement," Jawando said. "Kai’s leadership in Frederick County is remarkable and demonstrative of the best version of public service. Frederick County is home to gorgeous natural beauty, wonderful people, and historic cities, and we must do everything we can to ensure the people of Frederick County are listened to and represented well. I look forward to working with Kai to expand my campaign’s infrastructure in Frederick County and ensure that every Marylander hears our message of shared prosperity loud and clear."

Photo courtesy KaiHagen.com

Rockville Wendy's closed temporarily for renovations

Wendy's has temporarily closed at 808 Rockville Pike for a renovation project. If you're familiar with the Derwood Wendy's, you already know the drill. That Wendy's location closed for about 90 days for a similar project, before reopening this past January. 

It will be interesting to see what design changes are made to the exterior of the Rockville Wendy's, as it has a more unique building design. This is arguably the best Wendy's in Montgomery County, so it is about to get even better. Customers are being redirected to the Derwood Wendy's during the closure. Have a Baconator up there, but don't tell the County Council!

Aggravated assault at Rockville grocery store

Rockville City police responded to a report of an aggravated assault at a grocery store Friday night, August 11, 2023. The assault was reported at a store in the 600 block of Hungerford Drive at 9:15 PM Friday. There is a Giant supermarket on that block of Hungerford.

Lids opening at Montgomery Mall in Bethesda

Lids is "opening soon" at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda. The sports merchandise retailer is best known for hats, but carries a wide range of licensed sporting apparel, shoes and accessories. Lids offers 90-day "hassle-free returns" on products. Look for Lids when it opens on Level 1 next to the Lego Store.

VinoRita wine slushies kiosk opens, Wild Custom Apparel moves at Montgomery Mall in Bethesda

VinoRita, a wine slushies kiosk, has opened in the Dining Terrace food court at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda. "Have a wine slushy," an electronic menu screen floating above the kiosk advises. A menu screen lists 5 flavors available. VinoRita's marketing calls the new kiosk "your classy place to drink."

In other mall news, Wild Custom Apparel has made a short move to relocate. It has reopened in a space between the Lego Store and The Children's Place on Level 1, essentially just leapfrogging to the opposite side of the Lego Store from where it was. The shop is what it sounds like, a custom-printing apparel business. What makes it "wild," is left to the imagination. Downing a couple of wine slushies before shopping may assist in that department.

Signage installed at The Grove in Potomac + construction update (Photos)

Signage has been installed at The Grove, the new restaurant opening soon at 7747 Tuckerman Lane at Cabin John Village in Potomac. The logo reflects the flower design theme that is expanded upon in the interior design of the space, which was previously home to Lahinch Tavern and Grill. The Grove is a new Belgian cuisine concept from the Common Plate Hospitality Group. Common Plate is behind several restaurants in the region, including Mason Social and Augie's, as well as the highly-anticipated food hall at The Shops at Wisconsin Place in Chevy Chase, The Heights.

La Table du Château is a new weekend brunch spot in Rockville

La Table du Château has opened a pop-up brunch restaurant inside The Block food hall at 967 Rose Avenue at Pike & Rose. The menu is classic French cuisine, and is served from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. Check out the menu online here (ignore that the menu says they open at 11:00 AM). Reservations can be made by calling or texting 240-813-0001.