Page 212 – The MoCo Show

Leaf Blower Ban Takes Effect Tuesday; Violations Carry $500 Fine (Top Articles of 2025)

Published December 30, 2025 at 10:18PM

As 2025 comes to a close, we wanted to share with you some of our most-read articles of the year. This article was originally published on June 30, just before the July 1 leaf blower ban went into effect, and it went on to become our most-read article of 2025.

Montgomery County passed legislation in 2024 to address environmental, noise, and health concerns related to gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuums. Sales of gas-powered equipment have been banned since July 1, 2024, and the ban on their use officially begins this Tuesday, July 1, 2025. (more…)

Montgomery County Taxicab Rates to Increase

By Patrick Herron

Published December 30, 2025 at 9:54PM

Beginning February 1, 2026, Montgomery County taxicab rates will increase from $2 to $2.50 per mile, and a new $1 nighttime surcharge will apply for trips between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., marking the first meter rate change in more than 15 years.

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Holiday Transportation Schedules Announced for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

By Patrick Herron

Published December 30, 2025 at 9:46PM

On New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31, most Montgomery County transportation services, including Ride On buses, Metrorail, Metrobus, and MARC Train, will operate on regular weekday schedules, with county offices open and parking following normal rules until free parking begins at 8 p.m.

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Silver Alert: Concern for Missing 78-Year-Old

By Patrick Herron

Published December 30, 2025 at 9:01PM

Detectives from the Montgomery County Department of Police – 6th District Investigative Section are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Andrew Keo, a missing 78-year-old. (more…)

Ten Years After His Passing, Dr. George B. Thomas’ Saturday School Legacy Lives On

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 8:10PM

Courtesy MCPS

Ten years after the passing of Dr. George B. Thomas, Sr., his legacy is being remembered once again across Montgomery County. On Tuesday, MCPS Physical Education Supervisor Dr. Cara Grant shared a video originally produced by MCPS in 2016, the year Dr. Thomas passed away, honoring the founder of the Saturday School program and highlighting the lasting impact of his life’s work. For thousands of students and families, Dr. Thomas’ influence was not abstract or symbolic. It was personal, practical, and life changing.

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From CPA to “Mr. Swiftie,” and Everything in Between: The Unconventional Reinvention of MoCo Native Ray Castro

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 7:49PM

Ray “Mr. Swiftie” Castro performing at Beers and Cheers Too in Germantown

Ray Castro’s life story is one that feels especially relatable in Montgomery County. He was a kid who grew up here, did everything “right” on paper, built a stable career, and then eventually realized stability alone wasn’t enough.

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Chimney Fire Damages Home Tuesday Evening

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 6:29PM

Courtesy Capt. Franco Martinez

Fire and rescue crews responded Tuesday evening to a chimney fire at a single-family home in the Cloverly area.

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Delaware State Police Issue Gold Alert for Missing Gaithersburg Teen

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 5:46PM

Courtesy Delaware State Police

Delaware State Police have issued a Gold Alert for a missing 16-year-old from Gaithersburg, Maryland, who was last seen in northern Delaware.

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Free Fitness Passes Continue in 2026 for Montgomery County Residents

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 5:13PM

Courtesy Montgomery County Recreation

Montgomery County residents will be able to continue working toward their health and fitness goals at no cost in 2026.

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Dominique Dawes to Open New Gym in Silver Spring in 2026

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 4:34PM

Courtesy Dominique Dawes on Facebook

Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes is bringing her gymnastics academy back to her roots.

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Four MCPS Educators Honored by Military Bowl Foundation and Wegmans

By MCS Staff

Published December 30, 2025 at 2:49PM

Courtesy Military Bowl

Several Montgomery County Public Schools teachers with military backgrounds or connections are being recognized through a national initiative that celebrates and supports educators.

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