1. Take along the rain gear... today will start off partly sunny but soon turn mostly cloudy, with a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms developing the afternoon. Highs will reach the mid 80s. Tonight will be mostly cloudy with the chance of showers and storms increasing to 50 percent.
A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is also in effect today for the entire metro area, meaning conditions may be unhealthy for sensitive groups including those with asthma or lung conditions, children and the elderly. Outdoor exercise should be avoided today.
2. A free child safety seat inspection starts this morning at 10 a.m. at Fitzgerald's Auto Mall (5501 Nicholson Ln., Kensington). Montgomery County Police, Fire and Rescue personnel and trained Fitzgerald staffers will be on hand to inspect child safety seats for proper installation. The event ends at 12:30 p.m.
Find out what's happening in Wheatonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
3. Montgomery County Police have arrest a suspect in connection with January's burglary and assault at New Creation Baptist Church. A 22-year-old Silver Spring man has been charged in the crime, in which the church's pastor was struck while trying to prevent the suspect from fleeing. Read more in the Patch story.
4. It's never too soon to start planning for the weekend--for ideas, stay tuned to Patch today for Get Out, our weekly rundown of fun activities for you and the family.
Find out what's happening in Wheatonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
5. The Montgomery Art Association Gallery in Westfield Wheaton Mall opens its August art show today. Featured artist of the month is Floyd Roberts, a nationally-recognized artist discovered as a child prodigy in the West Indies, his birth country. Robert specializes pieces include sculpture in wood, stone, mixed media, clay and metal. Gallery hours are 12 noon-8 p.m.
Enjoy your Thursday!
