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

Stop Work order issued at Mi Mariachi in Wheaton

Mi Mariachi had been making steady progress toward an early August opening at 11301 Fern Street in Wheaton over the last couple of months. Work has temporarily halted, however. Montgomery County's Department of Permitting Services has posted a Stop Work Order. It does not specify the precise reason for the order, but the chapter and section referred to on it relate to "Application for permit." Hopefully they can get this resolved as quickly possible, as many in Wheaton are eagerly awaiting the return of this business to the community.

Update on Commas Food Hall at Ellsworth Place in Silver Spring (Photos)

Commas Food Hall has joined the group of the most-prominent tenants at Ellsworth Place mall in downtown Silver Spring in having logo signage around the property's massive digital outdoor TV screens. The fact that it's the only dining tenant in that matrix of retail logos emphasizes that Ellsworth Place is committed to making the food hall a success, and feels it will be a real draw for the mall. Alas, inside, there's still a long way to go on the interior fit-out. The food hall is eagerly awaited, but is far behind schedule. Any "sign" is a positive sign at this point, though, that there will indeed be an opening day in the future.

Java Nation Silver Spring signage installed

The sign is up at Java Nation, opening soon at 1010 Wayne Avenue in the Station Square building. Last night, the sign was already lit up. Window screens are still in place, so no sneak peeks inside just yet, but the interior is shown in illustrated form on the signs. This will be the fourth Java Nation opened by the local coffee shop chain.

Wheaton Triangle windows become canvas for local artist (Photos)

If you've been in the Wheaton Triangle recently, you may have noticed windows of several storefronts are sporting public art. It's part of a new art walk and mural project by the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County called "Wheaton Windows." Gaithersburg artist Paige Friedeman - who goes by "Peijisan" - has been creating the window displays over the summer. Some are themed to match the business behind the windows, while these on a vacant space at 11200 Grandview Avenue follow an umbrella theme. If you're planning to see them in-person today, an umbrella just might come in handy.

Frank's Burger Place to share new space with District Bistro in Wheaton

Frank's Burger Place will be relocating later this year to the former Umberto's nightclub space at 11230 Grandview Avenue in the Wheaton Triangle. It will share the space with a new restaurant, District Bistro, serving American cuisine. Frank's Burger Place won an Editor's Choice award from Bethesda Magazine last year for "Best Chicken Sandwich." It is currently located - and currently open - at 11265 Triangle Lane in Wheaton.

Sneak peek: Red Ribbon Bakeshop in Wheaton (Photos)

After months of construction that seemed to slow down at times, Red Ribbon Bakeshop is finally in the home stretch at 2501 University Boulevard West in Wheaton. As you can see, the interior is essentially finished, and bakery cases, tables and chairs are in place. This will be the first Maryland location for the Jollibee-owned Filipino bakery chain. Red Ribbon Bakeshop is expected to open next month, according to Google.