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