Virginia named State of the Year by Business Facilities magazine

Our neighbor across the Potomac is ending 2024 on another economic development high note. Business Facilities magazine has just named Virginia "State of the Year." This is the third time the Old Dominion has taken home the prize since the magazine introduced the honor in 2007. Of course, it's little surprise that Virginia was named the winner, as it is one of the primary destinations of corporate headquarters relocations in America. Maryland? Dead last. Montgomery County hasn't attracted a single major corporate headquarters in over a quarter century, and the statewide record looks just as bad.

"Virginia is a prime location for businesses of all varieties, and this honor from Business Facilities underscores the work we’ve been doing since day one to make Virginia the best place for business investment and job creation," Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin said in a statement. "The Commonwealth has experienced record job growth from companies that are drawn by our best-in-class talent, infrastructure, and business-friendly environment. I am thrilled that Virginia has earned this recognition from a leading source for site selection experts."

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin wraps up
another year of the Old Dominion cleaning
Maryland's clock at economic development

"From advanced manufacturing to data centers to professional services, Virginia is attracting companies across industries with its business-friendly environment and programs to support the distinct needs of those businesses," Business Facilities Editorial Director Anne Cosgrove said. Earlier this year, CNBC named Virginia America's top state for business. Maryland came in 31st out of 50 on that list. Ouch.

Youngkin has proposed a number of tax cuts for Virginia residents in 2025. Maryland residents are facing yet more tax hikes, as its moribund economy has depressed revenues, while legislators in Annapolis have continued to spend wildly. 

"Let's take a victory lap on
Montgomery County's bike lanes!"

With no good news to share, and the potential loss of the Washington Commanders and future FBI headquarters looming, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has been reduced to creating distractions by endorsing the legalization of beer and wine sales in grocery stores. Residents have been demanding that for decades, and have been stiff-armed by their representatives in Annapolis every step of the way over those years. While desperation and embarrassment have led to the topic suddenly being revived by their governor and party leader, a number of powerful Democrats in Annapolis went on the record last week to suggest they will block such a move in the upcoming legislative session.

Photos courtesy Office of Gov. Glenn Youngkin

Maryland to open new I-95 Express Toll Lanes ahead of holiday travel

The Maryland Transportation Authority announced that it will open a new stretch of Express Toll Lanes on northbound I-95 tomorrow, Wednesday, December 18, 2024. A variable toll charged to drivers who use the lanes will provide a way around traffic congestion, which is expected to be heavy around next week's Christmas and Chanukah holidays. The new Express Toll Lanes run for 6.5 miles along the northbound side of the interstate between White Marsh Boulevard (MD 43) and Mountain Road (MD 152).

Completed Express Toll Lanes all the way to MD 24 (Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway), along with new ramps connecting I-695 to the northbound ETL, are expected to open to traffic by the end of 2027. The first section of ETL opened in 2014. MDTA recommends obtaining an E-ZPass, to save up to 77% over toll charges you might otherwise receive via Pay-by-Plate or video tolling.

“The northbound I-95 Express Toll Lanes extension project provides travelers with a more reliable travel experience while easing congestion on our highways,” MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gartner said in a statement. “Through innovation and safety, this project represents our commitment to modernize Maryland’s infrastructure and enhance mobility options.”

Burglary at Enterprise Rent-a-Car in Germantown

Montgomery County police responded to a report of a burglary at Enterprise Rent-a-Car at 19801 Frederick Road in Germantown on the evening of November 22, 2024. There were no signs of forced entry. However, property was taken from a "shed" at the rental car facility. Police have released no description of the suspect(s) at this time.

Montgomery County police to stage sobriety checkpoint tonight

If you drive while intoxicated tonight, Friday the 13th may truly be your unlucky day. Montgomery County police will conduct a sobriety checkpoint somewhere in the county tonight, December 13, 2024, beginning around 10:00 PM. The exact location is not being disclosed by the police department for obvious reasons, but you could anticipate it will be on a major road. Drunk-and-drugged driving and crash statistics are employed in choosing the site of the checkpoint. Any driver showing signs of intoxication will be ordered to pull over for further testing. 

MCPS student-refurbished car and computer sale Dec. 14 in Gaithersburg

The Montgomery County Students Automotive Trades Foundation, Inc. is a partnership between the business community and Montgomery County Public Schools that provides valuable experience for students in the automotive repair and sales fields. It will be holding its next refurbished car and computer sale this Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Gaithersburg High School at 101 Education Boulevard in Gaithersburg.

I recommend you first fortify yourself with breakfast at Wawa across MD 355. Second, the list of cars expected to be available at the lottery sale this Saturday is topped off with a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis for $3,495 and a 2010 BMW 128i coupe for $7995. Buyers can take their car to a mechanic for inspection within 5 business days.

All vehicles are Maryland State Inspected prior to delivery and vehicles with less than 90,000 miles come with a 30 day or 1,000 mile powertrain warranty. All vehicles with 90,000 or more miles are discounted and sold in “as is” condition. Tags, title, fees, and sales tax are in addition to the vehicle price.  A $100 deposit (checks preferred; cash accepted) is required to hold a vehicle. The balance of the purchase price is due when you receive the vehicle. All deposits are non-refundable one week (5 working days) after sale.

Individuals who choose to test drive sale vehicles must be at least 21 years of age, wear a mask (required), have a current car insurance policy, and have a valid drivers’ license.

Paris Baguette sets opening date in Germantown

Paris Baguette's new Germantown location has an opening date. The French bakery at 21040-G Frederick Road will open this Saturday, December 14, 2024. The bakery will be open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM seven days a week.

This is the brand's second Maryland location.“We’re incredibly excited to bring Paris Baguette to the Germantown community, a place we’ve both grown up near and have always been passionate about serving,” franchisee John Canterino said in a statement today. “Opening this café with my brother Michael, alongside our experienced team, is a dream come true. We’re not just bringing fresh & delicious pastries, cakes and artisan coffee beverages to the area – we’re also committed to giving back and creating a space where the community can gather, connect, and enjoy high-quality baked goods together.”

Yamil Hernández elected VP of Gaithersburg City Council

Gaithersburg City Councilmember Yamil Hernández has been elected Vice-President of the body by his colleagues for a one-year term. Hernández was elected to the Council in 2023. As VP, he will stand in for Mayor Jud Ashman during any absence by the executive. In his first year on the Council, Hernández took on the responsibility of serving as Council liaison to the Environmental Affairs Committee. In his private career, he is the Chief Business Officer and Co-Founder of ExeGi Pharma. 

Photo courtesy City of Gaithersburg

Attempted armed robbery in Montgomery Village

Montgomery County police are searching for suspects in the November 25 attempted armed robbery of a man in Montgomery Village. The botched robbery attempt took place in "the early morning hours" at the intersection of Boysenberry Drive and Hellingly Place. Two male suspects displayed a weapon, and assaulted the adult male victim. They were unsuccessful in obtaining property from the victim, however.

Police describe the suspects only as two Black males in their twenties. If you can identify either of these suspects, call police at (301) 279-8000.

La Frontera reopens in Gaithersburg after arson

La Frontera at 3 Russell Avenue was one of several Gaithersburg businesses targeted by an arsonist in September 2023. After over a year of repairs, the Salvadoran restaurant has reopened its doors for business. To celebrate the reopening, La Frontera is offering 10% off to diners during the month of December. Show the above image at the time of your purchase to redeem the offer.

Bowlero Gaithersburg to rebrand as Lucky Strike

All three Bowlero locations in Montgomery County will rebrand as Lucky Strike. Bowlero Bethesda at 5353 Westbard Avenue, Bowlero Gaithersburg at 1101 Clopper Road, and Bowlero Rockville at 15720 Shady Grove Road will become Lucky Strike bowling alleys over the next two years. Bowlero, which acquired Lucky Strike last year, has decided to make the name change to reflect its intention to broaden its entertainment empire beyond bowling. 

Lucky Strike has an existing Montgomery County location at Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda. The future of the Westbard location is unclear, however, as its lease ends in 2027, requiring a decision by property owner Regency Centers.

Bowlero told The Wall Street Journal this week that profits from its Raging Waves water park in Illinois have exceeded expectations, fueling confidence that the company can expand its horizons, while staying centered on its core business of food and beverage sales. CEO Tom Shannon told the Journal that he envisions the company one day selling passes that are accepted at all of its entertainment businesses.

Illegal loaded handgun discovered in Germantown traffic stop

The Montgomery County Police Department continues to be vindicated in its expressed belief that traffic stops have tremendous value in combating crime, and boosting public safety, in contrast to their critics on the Montgomery County Council. Once again, in the early morning hours of November 23, 2024, a traffic stop in Germantown yielded a loaded gun that the possessor was not legally authorized to have. The gun was allegedly uncovered in a vehicle pulled over near the intersection of Father Hurley Boulevard and Germantown Road.

Shanita Hackett, 42, of no fixed address was arrested at the scene. According to Maryland court records, she has been charged with possession of a handgun, possession of a loaded handgun, illegal possession of a registered firearm, possession of a firearm with a felony conviction, illegal possession of ammunition, two counts of 2nd-degree assault, malicious destruction of property, resisting arrest, and obstructing and hindering an officer. Hackett is being held without bond pending a preliminary hearing in Montgomery County District Court in Rockville on December 20.

Regal Germantown closed while Montgomery County leaders slept at the switch (Photos)

Regal Cinemas has closed at 20000 Century Boulevard in Germantown. The closure, which was first reported by The MoCo Show, is a significant blow to the development and success of Germantown Town Center. The theater is likely to be replaced by yet another residential building. Yes, it may have retail or restaurant tenants in the ground floor (or, like others in the area, it might not), but neither outcome will produce the general activity level of a cineplex. In a relatively-high-crime area like Germantown, the last thing in the world you want is a large, dead, dark space after business hours.

The closure is also bad news for the surrounding businesses. A study last decade found that a multiplex theater draws an additional 20,000 people to a neighborhood each weekend, who shop and dine at nearby establishments before and after their movie. "Dinner and a movie" is such a generator of economic activity - not to mention one of the most popular weekend activities of many Americans - that some restaurants will even partner with theaters to offer special packages. 

It's sad that it came down to this. When this theater opened as a Hoyts Cinema around the turn of the century, it stood out for awhile in a county where most theaters were aging or had closed altogether, and the odds of finding a hole in your seat cushion at many were quite good. But in recent years as a Regal Cinemas, the failure to convert to the latest theater standards such as recliners could be seen as the writing on the wall. 

The reality is that the potential cash value of the land as a mixed-use development site exceeded whatever Regal would realistically be able to pay in rent over the coming years. And as in the demise of Regal Cinemas Bethesda 10, the Montgomery County Council was asleep at the switch, despite it being known for months that this economic engine of Germantown Town Center was in danger of being switched off, with no replacement. 

It should be noted that Topgolf, the only other significant entertainment option in the Town Center neighborhood, is in financial distress at the corporate level. Parent company Topgolf Calloway has declared its intention to spin off the Topgolf business into a separate entity. As a result, there's no ironclad guarantee that Topgolf will be around forever in Germantown. BlackRock Center for the Arts isn't enough to sustain a viable Town Center economy on its own. Where is the leadership? Somebody reach for the smelling salts.

Sheetz on Gaithersburg Planning Commission agenda Dec. 4

The addition of a second Montgomery County Sheetz convenience store and mega-gas-station will take another step toward reality this Wednesday night, December 4, 2024, in Gaithersburg. City Planning Commissioners will take up a request by the Walnut Hill Shopping Center to install an additional monument sign that will display the Sheetz gas prices. A similar sign was allowed at the Montgomery Village Sheetz further up MD 355. The amendment to Walnut Hill's sign package will also allow additional signage on the Sheetz convenience store building. City staff are recommending approval of the Sheetz amendment.

Strong-arm robbery in Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg City police responded to a report of a strong-arm robbery on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. The robbery and assault were reported in the 100 block of Main Street at 3:00 PM Tuesday. That is at Kentlands Place.

Armed carjacking in Germantown

Montgomery County police responded to a report of an armed carjacking in Germantown on November 12, 2024. The carjacking took place in the 13300 block of Dovedale Way "in the early morning hours," police said. Two suspects displayed an unspecified weapon, and took the adult male victim's vehicle. Police describe the suspects only as "2 males, no further descriptions." If you have any information about this incident, or that could lead to the arrest of the suspects, call police at (301) 279-8000.

Indecent exposure at Lakeforest Transit Center

Montgomery County police responded to a report of indecent exposure at the Lakeforest Transit Center in Montgomery Village on the afternoon of November 24, 2024. The incident was reported at 3:30 PM Sunday. An individual was also allegedly in possession of an unspecified weapon. The transit center is located at 9670 Lost Knife Road.

Thanksgiving burger this week only at Dogfish Head Alehouse in Gaithersburg

Give thanks for the Thanksgiving Burger, the appropriate Burger of the Week at Dogfish Head Alehouse at 800 W. Diamond Avenue in Gaithersburg this week. A 4 oz. beef patty is topped with turkey, melted provolone cheese, homemade stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. For $17, it comes with a side of Beach Fries. Pairing the burger with a pint of Punkin' Ale is the recommendation of the house. 

Photo courtesy Dogfish Head Alehouse

Armed robbery at Montgomery Village smoke shop

Montgomery County police responded to a report of an armed robbery at a smoke shop in Montgomery Village on November 8, 2024. At 4:11 PM, the suspect entered Tobacco & Vape Outlet at 8407 Snouffer School Road. He allegedly displayed an unspecified weapon, and stole merchandise. Police describe the suspect only as a Black male of unknown age. If you can identify this suspect, call police at (301) 279-8000.

Gaithersburg man charged in fatal auto accident

A Gaithersburg man is facing charges in the July 20, 2024 crash that killed a Germantown man, Montgomery County police announced today. Agustin E. Jaramillo Lopez, 45, has been charged with negligent manslaughter by vehicle after his pickup truck rear-ended a Nissan Altima driven by Isaac Akomanyi, 39, of Germantown. Akomanyi later died at a local hospital.

Jaramillo Lopez' blood alcohol content was recorded at 0.159 one hour after the collision, police say, nearly twice the legal limit. He is currently being held without bond. His mugshot was not released by police.

Police searching for Montgomery Village attempted carjacking suspect

Montgomery County police are seeking the public's help in identifying and locating a man they say attempted to carjack a vehicle in Montgomery Village on the evening of November 4, 2024. Police say the incident occurred at 8:10 PM at the intersection of Montgomery Village Avenue and Midcounty Highway. Detectives describe the suspect as a Hispanic male with a beard and mustache, wearing a white hoodie, jeans, and a puffer jacket (gotta keep warm while carjacking, after all). They have released video of the suspect.

Germantown police standoff with knife-wielding man ends peacefully

A police standoff with a knife-wielding man ended peacefully Sunday, November 17, 2024, Montgomery County police announced this morning. Marques Buford, 49, of Germantown was taken into custody outside of his apartment complex in the 12300 block of Silvergate Way. The incident began after Buford's wife called 911 to report that her husband allegedly would not allow her to leave their apartment at 7:19 AM. A database scan indicated that Buford had a history of "dangerous behavior," police said.

When officers arrived at the apartment property, they encountered Buford outside, wielding a butcher knife. They attempted to use non-lethal means to take him into custody, but Buford was allegedly wearing a paintball mask and many layers of clothing, which rendered those efforts ineffective. Officers then called in an Emergency Response Team, and a S.W.A.T. team.

A trained negotiator with the 5th District was successful in de-escalating the situation to the point that, when Buford attempted to flee on foot, officers were able to take him into custody without injury to any party involved. 

Buford was evaluated at a local hospital, and then transported to the Montgomery County Central Processing Unit, where he was charged with false imprisonment. He is currently being held without bond.

Assault at library in Gaithersburg

Montgomery County police were called to a library in Gaithersburg on Thursday, November 14, 2024, after someone reported having been the victim of a 2nd-degree assault there. The assault was reported at the Quince Orchard Library at 15831 Quince Orchard Road at 2:30 PM Thursday. That is across the street from Quince Orchard High School.

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls celebrates Gaithersburg grand opening today with 20%-off

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls at 201-A Boardwalk Place at Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg is celebrating its Grand Opening today, Friday, November 15, 2024. Starting at 10:30 AM this morning, menu prices will be 20%-off all day, today only. Mason's opened earlier this fall at the Peterson Cos. development. 

Virginia beats Maryland again, wins $1.3 billion manufacturing facility & 2015 jobs

Could Maryland and Montgomery County use a $1.3 billion corporate investment, 2015 high-wage jobs, and a major infusion of tax revenue? Yes! Did we win the 500,000-square-foot Microporous manufacturing facility? No! But Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin will give you three guesses as to who did. Yet again, our rival across the Potomac River has bested us in the economic development sweepstates.

Microporous, a leading manufacturer of battery separators, will construct the $1.3 billion facility in Berry Hill, Virginia. The factory will create 2015 new, high-wage jobs, and will provide more freight traffic for the Port of Virginia. Tennessee-based Microporous was founded as the American Rubber Company, which patented the first rubber battery separator in 1934. Today, their products are in high demand, as adoption of electric vehicles explodes in many countries around the world, even if demand for EVs still lags in the United States. Virginia's port will indeed see a boost in outbound traffic as a result, as Microporous is the only manufacturer of rubber battery separators used in electric automobiles and mobility devices.

“This historic $1.35 billion investment by Microporous in Pittsylvania County marks a new chapter in Virginia's incredible advanced manufacturing story,” Youngkin said in a statement yesterday. “This project not only brings over 2,000 new jobs to Southside Virginia, but also positions the Commonwealth at the forefront of our nation’s resurgence in manufacturing. Microporous' decision to establish their new facility here underscores Virginia's competitive advantages and our commitment to leading the way in innovative industries.” Youngkin's office identified North Carolina as the other finalist for the facility; it's unclear if Maryland even attempted to pursue the opportunity, or was once again asleep at the switch.

“It is with great pleasure and excitement that we welcome Microporous to the Southern Virginia Megasite and Pittsylvania County," Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors Chairman Darrell Dalton said Wednesday. “Microporous brings a new level of technological advancement to our business community as well as high paying jobs that offer another opportunity for our young people to remain and raise families in and near their hometowns. Microporous will also provide the County with added revenue to better serve our citizens. We look forward to many years of Microporous’ growth and success and Pittsylvania County is honored to be part of that journey.” 

Photos courtesy Office of Gov. Glenn Youngkin

Woman assaulted, robbed in Shady Grove Professional Park

A woman was the victim of three robbers at Shady Grove Professional Park in the early morning hours of November 2, 2024, Montgomery County police report. The woman was in the commercial townhome development in the 9000 block of Shady Grove Court on the border of Gaithersburg and Rockville when she was approached by three suspects. They allegedly assaulted her, and stole money and unspecified property from her. Police describe the suspects only as a Black male, and two Black females. If you can identify any of these suspects, or have any information about this incident, call police at (301) 279-8000.

Armed robbery reported at Germantown school

Montgomery County police responded to a report of an armed robbery at a school in Germantown this past Friday evening, November 8, 2024. The robbery was reported at Waters Landing Elementary School at 13100 Waters Landing Drive at 7:17 PM Friday. A firearm was the weapon employed in the alleged robbery.

Assault at self-storage facility in Gaithersburg

Montgomery County police responded to a report of an assault at a self-storage facility in Gaithersburg early yesterday afternoon, November 10, 2024. The assault was reported at Self Storage Plus at 9107 Gaither Road at 12:27 PM Sunday. 

Maryland Attorney General encourages racist text recipients to report messages

Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown issued a statement last night encouraging residents to report to law enforcement, and to civil rights and hate crime offices in the state, racist text messages that have allegedly been received by Black residents following Election Day. The general message of the texts, which have several versions, order the recipient to "board a bus" to be transported to a "plantation" for work "as a slave," Brown said. Students were among those who have reported receiving the message, Brown added. 

"The text messages appear to be part of a nationwide campaign targeting Black people in the wake of the election," Brown's statement read. “These messages are horrific, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated. If you have been sent one of these texts, I am asking for you to please come forward and report it,” Brown said. “I am committed to protecting the rights of all Marylanders. There is no home for hate in Maryland.”

If you have received a text message like this, Brown advised informing your local law enforcement agency, and filing a report with the following two offices: The Civil Rights Division of the Attorney General's office, and the Maryland Commission on Hate Crimes Response and Prevention.

 

Strong-arm robbery in Montgomery Village

Montgomery County police responded to a report of a strong-arm robbery in Montgomery Village last night, November 6, 2024. The robbery was reported in a commercial parking lot in the 19300 block of Montgomery Village Avenue at 7:10 PM Wednesday. That is in the vicinity of the Montgomery Village Center.

Fairfax County beats Montgomery County again, winning CMC Electronics facility

Montgomery County has suffered another loss to Northern Virginia in the competition to win a new research and development facility from CMC Electronics. The avionics manufacturer chose Reston, Virginia for its new office and R&D facility, which will bring 89 high-wage jobs to Fairfax County at the start, with more to be added in the future. Virginia Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra confirmed that the finalists in the race were Virginia, Maryland, Alabama, and Florida. On a positive note, at least Maryland was engaged in this contest - and in the running until the end - rather than being asleep at the switch.

It's hard not to notice the proximity of CMC's future facility site in Reston to Dulles International Airport. Dulles is the only airport in our region with the flight frequency and international destinations that meet the demands of international businesspeople. Montgomery County and Maryland continue to cut off their ideological nose to spite their economic development face, by blocking construction of a new Potomac River crossing from the I-270 corridor to Dulles.

Pierre Rossignol, President, CMC Electronics

"We are thrilled to be joining the vibrant Reston community and are excited about the opportunities this expansion brings—for our team, our partners, and our customers," CMC Electronics President Pierre Rossignol said in a statement. "We look forward to continuing our mission of pushing the boundaries of avionics excellence." The Montreal-based firm has an existing American facility in Sugar Grove, Illinois. CMC stands for Canadian Marconi Company; the company's founder was someone you might have heard of:  Guglielmo Marconi. The brilliant Italian inventor founded the firm in 1903.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin

“CMC Electronics' decision to invest $5 million and establish its new facilities in Fairfax County underscores Virginia's position as a leader in aerospace innovation,” Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin said in a statement from his office. “This creation of new high-tech jobs demonstrates the strength of our Commonwealth's talent pipeline and our commitment to fostering cutting-edge industries. Virginia's pro-business climate and strategic location continue to attract global companies like CMC Electronics, further solidifying our role in shaping the future of aviation technology.”

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay

“I am thrilled that CMC Electronics has chosen Reston as the location for their U.S. expansion and continued global growth,” Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeffrey C. McKay said. “CMC Electronics choosing Fairfax County is yet another testament to how business-friendly policies, a robust talent pipeline that supports innovation, and our unmatched quality of life is a winning combination for maintaining our status as the premiere destination for starting, locating, and growing your business.”