Hook & Reel update at Wheaton Plaza (Photos)

Construction continues at Hook & Reel at Westfield's Wheaton Plaza mall. Progress is being made, but it looks like it may be at least a few more weeks before it opens. This will be the Cajun seafood boil restaurant's second Montgomery County location; they already have one in Gaithersburg.

Proof of vaccination required for entry at AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring

Indoor mask requirements are back in effect in Montgomery County, but some businesses go further. AFI Silver Theatre is now requiring proof of vaccination from moviegoers, or a negative covid PCR test result. New York City and Los Angeles are among the municipalities that have previously mandated vaccines for movie theater patrons.

Most major cineplex chains have not instituted a vaccination requirement companywide, although some in the industry have argued that such mandates could boost box office receipts. Marcus Corporation has found a way to thread the needle, by offering special screenings for vaccinated patrons only at its Marcus Theatres and Movie Tavern locations, but not requiring vaccination proof to enter the building.

Armed robbery at Takoma Park jewelry store

Takoma Park police responded to a report of an armed robbery at a Takoma Park jewelry store yesterday afternoon, December 2, 2021. The store in the 7600 block of New Hampshire Avenue was robbed at gunpoint at 2:02 PM, according to crime data.

Utility project at Georgia and Bonifant in Silver Spring postponed

A Purple Line-related utility project at the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Bonifant Street in downtown Silver Spring expected to begin December 5, 2021, has been postponed "until further notice," the Maryland Transit Administration said this morning. No reason for the postponement was given. The project involves water lines that flow beneath the intersection.

Free coffee for a year for first 100 customers at Burtonsville Dunkin' Donuts December 4 at 10 AM

The Dunkin' Donuts at 15640 Old Columbia Pike will celebrate its status as the first Next Generation Dunkin' store in Burtonsville with a grand-opening ceremony this Saturday, December 4, 2021 from 10:00 AM to noon. Starting at 10:00 AM, the store will give the first 100 customers in line a gift card for free coffee for one year. Even if you miss out on that, you will still be able to enjoy a free medium Hot or Iced Coffee (excludes Cold Brew and Nitro Cold Brew and some additions such as dairy alternatives and espresso shots), in addition to live music with a DJ, a balloon artist, face painting, photos with Dunkin’ mascot Cuppy and free giveaways from the Dunkin’ prize wheel.   

At 11:00 AM, franchisees Ketan and Chetan Bhalani of the Jay Bhalani Network will host the store’s official ribbon cutting, and then present a check donation for $1,000 to support the Laurel Boys and Girls Club. This location is the first Maryland Dunkin' store for the Jay Bhalani Network.

Premium Pours tap system

Next generation features of the store include modern design and materials, the Premium Pours tap system, energy efficient appliances and lighting, and Dunkin' on Demand self-order kiosks. The 2300 square foot store employs 16 people, and also includes a Baskin Robbins.

 Photos courtesy Dunkin' Donuts

Motorcycle stolen in Takoma Park

Takoma Park police are investigating the theft of a motorcycle over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. The motorcycle was reported stolen on Sunday, November 28, 2021 in the 7900 block of Flower Avenue. Police say the 2008 red Yamaha FZ1 with Maryland tag #472Y45 was stolen sometime between November 24 and 28. If you see the bike, or have any information about who stole it, you are asked to call Takoma Park police at 301-270-1100, and refer to case #210048254.

Wheaton Plaza packed for Black Friday

Holiday shoppers turned out in force for Black Friday at Westfield's Wheaton Plaza mall. The parking lot and garages were filled to pre-pandemic levels the day after Thanksgiving. Santa Claus will continue to be in the Level 1 Macy's court through Christmas Eve, and you can RSVP online to schedule your visit. On December 11, there will be a live performance of Frozen I & II: The Musical in the same area. Due to pandemic crowding restrictions, space will be limited for the two performances, and an RSVP is necessary.